Turks & Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 06 | February 16 - 22, 2013

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Gov’t faces $100m SUIT – Conch Farm case to be heard in open court

OWNERS of the world famous Caicos Conch Farm are set to sue the TCI Government for up to $100m in a monumental case which will be heard before open court.

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Contestants vying for Miss TCI meet and greet the public

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Businesses have until February 22 to register with VAT Unit

BUSINESSES that were putting off registration with the Value Added Tax (VAT) Unit have been put on notice ...

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Parties waste no time hitting the ground with campaigns PEOPLE’S Democratic Movement’s (PDM) Oral Selver stepped up his campaigning and has met with residents of Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills.

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Misick vows to return to TCI voluntarily

MIKE Misick was released on bail in Brazil last Friday (February 8) and in a statement released this week he has vowed to return to the Turks and Caicos ...

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Editorial

What is truth?

“‘WHAT is truth?' asked Pontius Pilate, and he would not wait for an answer.”

With those words a famous contemporary academic began an essay on Truth and Knowledge.

One need not be a devout Christian to recognise the scene, the characters (from real history), or the subject matter being the 'jury' trial of our Lord Jesus Christ!

We had a recent exchange with this territory's Governor that was eerily similar in historical echoes.

Indeed so similar that we were left dumbstruck, not altogether sure if the Governor himself recognised the religious/historical significance of the rhetorical question.

On that occasion we had just accosted the Governor at the Grand Turk Airport en route to the House debate on Value Added Tax (VAT).

We approached him saying: "Well, Governor, are you going to witness history or to alter it?

“You may have power but in our experience when truth speaks to power, even power must yield.”

The Governor smiled wryly and replied to us: "Well, what is truth?" and walked off. He did not wait for an answer.

We were truly and profoundly moved by the exchange. It proved once and for all what has been a fundamental flaw of the interim regime, with example after example.

And barely a week after that exchange came the spectacular.

The Governor's own Attorney General, Mr Huw Shepheard, sought so openly, and incompetently to refute the plain truth with that now infamous and humiliating of errors, a patently false press release denying Michael Misick's release from prison in Brazil.

While Mr Misick is assuredly a far cry from Jesus Christ, we say that truth was set to be crucified by the AG that day.

He rushed to do it without a moment's hesitation to get his facts straight and without apparent compunction in tone. Hours later he was forced to recant.

Why is it, and how did the AG think to rush to tell such a yarn without establishing facts?

Up to now the local media has entirely missed the REAL significance of this story.

It is not the mere fact of the AG's error, but in the context, and on so many levels, the volumes that it betrayed.

Not only does the story betray Attorney General Huw Shepheard's utter incompetence in handling of the extradition attempt but it fully betrays (yet again) a whole and deeply flawed mind set and psychology.

For the AG to so quickly rush a press release denying that former Premier Michael Misick had been released on bail from a Brazilian prison and to so arrogantly insist it was simply incorrect and that the Government's own news service Radio Turks and Caicos had got it wrong all without first properly establishing his facts from Brazil - betrays in bold contrast what is just so wrong about and with the man, and by extension, what was so often wrong with the interim regime. A callous, flippant and arrogant disregard for the truth.

It may be a principal factor in why the man has so badly bungled now

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 Vanessa Narine - Senior Reporter Faizool Deo – Sports Cord Garrido-Lowe – Graphics/Production Editor Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams – Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com (Talk Back) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

February 16 - 22, 2013

Parties waste no time hitting the ground with campaigns

BY VANESSA NARINE PEOPLE’S Democratic Movement’s (PDM) Oral Selver stepped up his campaigning and has met with residents of Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills.

Party chairman, Lyndon Hall, said: “We will not be letting up.

Our candidate has the support of the Leader (Sharlene-CartwrightRobinson) and the Deputy Leader (Sean Astwood), as well as the other honourable members in the House.

“It will be a vigorous campaign and so far the reception from the residents in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills area has been favourable.

“They are ready to go out and cast their vote so we can move this country in the right direction.”

Hall added that the party’s schedule agenda for public meetings and other activities will be announced soon.

The Progressive National Party (PNP) is also expected to do the same. The party, not to be outdone, has also kicked off its campaigning.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, said: “We are disappointed with this ruling as it distracts our government from doing the work that was mandated to us by the people of Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills and the wider Turks and Caicos Islands.

“We would like to assure the

Amanda Missick appeared on Conrad Howell’s show ‘On Your Mind’, her first interview since the by-elections ruling

PDM’s Oral Selver made his bid to represent Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills in the House of Assembly

residents of Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills that we will not let your expressed will and choice of a representative in the person of Amanda Missick be derailed without a fight!

“Nothing comes easy, we have had three short months to set right and fix problems that have existed for three years and some longer.

“We have been met with a great deal of opposition and challenges for a new government but our PNP government is equal to the task which we face and we stand ready to continue to fight for every Turks and Caicos Islander whether they be

in Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills or anywhere else in this country.”

well over a dozen major legal files for the TCIG. Any government anywhere in the world requires a sharp intellect for an AG, someone with a deep understanding of the law, highly principled with a high regard for the truth - that is, the possibility and practical attainment of objective truth, not sacrificed at the altar of sycophancy, career advancement at all cost, and cloaked by cheap spin and (where all else fails) attempted media intimidation.

Let us count the ways of the AG's bungling - some of the most public of disasters he has presided over and caused by bungling advice and mishandling.

1. TCI Bank winding-up.

2. Shore Club secret deal.

3. Interhealth Canada contract; AG's absolute failure to address monumental contract issues for the country.

4. National Insurance Board; bungled legal advice to Governor on misappropriation of $10m from the fund.

5. Chief Auditor A. Edwards' firing and TCIG's humiliating loss before Court of Appeal, now a mammoth continued expense to the Privy Council, just to 'save face' for the AG and Governor.

6. The infamous 'AK47' possession case, where a 25-year-old expatriate man, found in possession, was 'pardoned' by the AG, saying it was not in the public interest to prosecute, even though the TCI has strict liability laws now in place for gun possession.

7. Omission of any known steps against (criminal charge, civil lawsuit, nor even complaint of professional misconduct) by two expatriate lawyers involved in the Emerald Cay stamp duty fraud.

8. Numerous hard-line stances in vigorous prosecutions against black/native Belongers, but numerous examples of 'passes' for white expatriate and other defendants by the AG for a prosecution being 'not in the public interest'.

He has allowed numerous settlements by payment of a fine, in some cases with no admission of guilt, whereas to date there is not a known example of such a single written 'payment-only' settlement of a criminal prosecution with a black Belonger.

9. Failure to address the Leeward environmental disaster.

10. Alleged assault by the AG personally against senior Crown counsel, 'covered up' and given a 'pass' by local (Canadian) Commissioner of Police; Governor's promise of independent investigation by an Attorney General from outside the jurisdiction never materialised.

11. Mishandling of Provo Airport Management company matters.

12. Mishandling of Conch Farm file; what has always been a national treasure in the efforts by the Conch Farm developers was abused and mishandled, and has now exposed the TCIG to $100 million claim.

And truly, we are being kind, because the list goes on and on.

Huw Shepheard shall carry forever the ignominious distinction of most incompetent AG in this country's history.

But we the people shall have to pay for years into our future for his trail of legal wrecks and the manifold and certain disruption to our economy.

UPPER HAND The PNP currently has something of an upper hand, given that Missick has been functioning in office for the past three months and has started her campaign by outlining what work has been done in that time.

According to her, as Minister for Health and Human Services she has: Begun the Financial Audit of the Hospital and put systems in place for the conduct of a clinical audit. Both of these will have the effect of reducing hospital costs and improving clinical care in addition to holding the hospital accountable for any defaults under the contract.

Met with the new management of the hospital to address the various staffing and clinical service issues, especially the need to employ, train and promote local staff through proper succession planning.

Established the TCIG representative, the clinical services review board and the contract management team that will be responsible for the managerial oversight of the hospital contract, the effect of which will be seen shortly.

Drafted the regulations for improvements in NHIP benefits and services. These regulations will be taken to Cabinet this February.

Implemented a programme of road work improvements for the Cheshire Hall communities of Kew Town and Behind Glass Shack.

While these are not reflective of the specific promises she made to the constituents of the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills district during her earlier campaigning, Missick maintained that she is “fighting hard” for her constituents.

She said: “This government is fighting hard for you. I am fighting hard for you.

“I humbly ask you to return me as your Member of Parliament and the PNP as your government.

“I am counting on you the good people of Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills but more importantly your government is counting on you, your country is counting on you.

Let's do it again.”

Governor Ric Todd and the Supervisor of Elections on Tuesday announced the date of the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills by-election as Friday, March 22.

February 16 - 22, 2013

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Gov’t faces $100m law suit – Conch Farm case to be heard in open court OWNERS of the world famous Caicos Conch Farm are set to sue the TCI Government for up to $100m in a monumental case which will be heard before open court.

Trade Wind Industries claimed that the Government violated important agreements which led to a loss of funding and closure of the farm.

It has also hit out at TCIG for allowing destructive construction to take place near the unique breeding centre at Heaving Down Rock.

Now the company plans to take the Government to court for breach of contract, malicious falsehoods, defamation and unlawful interference with the firm’s economic interests.

This week Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale decided that full details of the civil action should be heard in open court – despite the Government’s requests for it to be settled privately.

Representatives from Trade Wind Industries and the Attorney General’s office attended Providenciales Supreme Court on Monday and Tuesday to discuss arbitration.

Attorney Monique Allen of Saunders and Co on behalf of Trade Wind Industries argued that the case should be heard in public.

“This is a claim that should be heard in the full light of day so that

my client is vindicated,” she said.

She stressed that arbitration, or private dispute resolution, could result in additional costs, delays and differing results.

“Everything should be told within one proceeding in front of an official referee,” she said.

Following representation from the Attorney General’s office for arbitration, Judge Ramsay-Hale announced that the case should be heard in full and in public in front of an open court.

Richard Burke, managing director of Trade Wind Industries, told the Weekly News on Thursday that he was happy with the outcome.

“I think it is only fair under the circumstances, considering the accusations against the Governor, that he have an opportunity to come to court and explain to the people of the TCI why he has intentionally obstructed a project that had the potential to provide hundreds of jobs to the country,” he said.

He went on to confirm that Trade Winds Industries could account for losses of up to $100m and would be presenting this figure to court.

Meanwhile a spokesperson for the Attorney General’s office told the Weekly News that they would continue to “vigorously defend” the action.

Last August the world’s largest conch exporter, Caicos Conch Farm,

Last August the world’s largest conch exporter, Caicos Conch Farm, closed its doors to the public due to a lack of funding

Governor Ric Todd

Attorney General Huw Shepheard

closed its doors to the public due to a lack of funding.

A loan of $15m for the unique breeding centre at Heaving Down

Rock in Providenciales was withdrawn from a long term lender.

Farm owners Trade Wind Industries blamed the Government for the upheaval after they claimed a development order needed to secure the loan failed to appear.

But Governor Ric Todd hit back at accusations insisting that the Government had done nothing wrong.

A statement from Trade Wind Industries was released to the public on Sunday, August 19, 2012.

It revealed that in early August “after 28 months of efforts” Trade Wind Industries secured a letter of intent from a qualified long term lender for $15m to redevelop the farm to include fish farming.

The commitment for the loan was secured if they could produce, among other documents, the May 28, 2010, development agreement between the Conch Farm and TCIG that was signed by Governor Gordon Wetherell.

“Despite government obligations to draft a development order ‘within 30 days of signing’ of that document, approximately 26 months elapsed,” the statement read.

It went on to claim that once it was finally released, previously granted concessions had been modified.

“Trade Wind Industries considers the British staffed TCIG and the Crown have breached the terms

Businesses have until February 22 to register with VAT Unit

BY VANESSA NARINE BUSINESSES that were putting off registration with the Value Added Tax (VAT) Unit have been put on notice and now have until February 22 to register.

A large section of the business community had expected not to have to move ahead, after the House majority voted to repeal VAT. However, the repeal is not legal until the bill is assented to by Governor Ric Todd, who referred it to the Attorney General’s (AG) Chambers for advice.

He also sent it on to UK Minister for the Overseas Territories in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), Mark Simmonds, for consideration.

The Governor’s spokesperson, Neil Smith, told the Weekly News that there is still no word from Simmonds and no further comments will be made until he

makes a pronouncement on the way forward.

Coordinator of the VAT Unit, Dorika Talbot, in an invited comment, explained that the unit will proceed with its work, preparing for the April 1 implementation of the new tax regime, until there is official word from Simmonds or the Governor.

It has been two weeks since the House of Assembly voted on the repeal (February 1) and with just a week until the registrations must be done, the business community is likely to have to comply or risk being in breach of the law, as stipulated in the VAT Legislation signed in midJuly last year.

Asked to comment on the continuance of the preparations for VAT, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, noted that the employees of the VAT Unit are simply civil servants doing their job.

He added that while the House voted to repeal VAT, there is not

much that can be done until Minister Simmonds makes a pronouncement, or the Governor assents to the bill or vetoes it.

“We did our part and we will continue to lobby and push for VAT to be repealed,” Ewing said.

The VAT registration threshold for businesses not already registered for Accommodation Tax will be set at a turnover of $200,000 in annual gross sales, which is the highest threshold in the Caribbean (Antigua and Barbuda are the next highest at $110,000).

The VAT registration threshold for businesses already registered for Accommodation Tax will be set at a lower threshold of $50,000 to mitigate against any loss of tax revenue from businesses with turnovers between $50,000 and $200,000.

There will be approximately 400 VAT registered businesses in the TCI at the $200,000 registration level, when VAT begins next year.

and conditions of the development agreement signed by Gordon Wetherell on May 28, 2010.

“Subsequent to the failure of the TCIG to fulfil its obligations, the letter of intent from the lender to Trade Wind Industries has been withdrawn.”

On Tuesday, August 21, the Governor responded to the statement by claiming that Trade Wind Industries had reported a number of “factual inaccuracies”.

He wrote: “The negotiations to convert the original development agreement (signed in 2009) into a development order took some time.

“The final development order was signed by the acting Governor on June 28, 2012.

“This order detailed a number of concessions agreed with the developers designed to offer them the incentive to commence operations at the farm as quickly as possible.

“It is important to stress that the signed development order was agreed with the developers.

“They had made no objections to the content of the order when they were consulted on a draft document during June 2012.”

He claimed that the developers subsequently requested that TCIG make changes to the terms of the original agreement to extend the operation to include the capacity to farm fish.

Trade Wind Industries responded to the Governor’s statement with another public release just a few hours later.

It read: “The Trade Wind Industries development agreement that Governor Ric Todd refers to has always included the right for Trade Wind Industries to farm finfish.”

It continued: “In addition, Trade Wind Industries has asked the present administration for no concessions whatsoever.

“Trade Wind Industries has asked only that the Crown and TCIG honour the development agreement and supplemental concessions granted in writing by former Governor Gordon Wetherell."

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February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Value for money?

THE costs charged by Edward Wildman Palmer (EWP), the international firm undertaking TCI’s Civil Recovery Programme (CRP), to date totals some $13m.

According to EWP, $16.6m had been recovered and banked for the people of the TCI, with another $2.6m due to be received; and as it relates to Crown land, an estimated 2,500 acres of land worth approximately $100m has been recovered for the Crown.

Notwithstanding the estimated value of the land recovered, the burning question is, are the people of the TCI getting value for money, given that the cost is 78 per cent of the actual cash collections?

What are your thoughts?

By whose definition

Who defines success?

Obviously, TCIG should be prepared to sell some of this land in order to recoup this expenditure?

Was it possible at any time to estimate the aggregate sum recoverable in order to set target spending? If targets were established, how were they determined?

I'm afraid we can be assured that there was little or no planning put to this process.

It appears that CRP has and will continue its mandate come what may, profitable or not.

Failure is not an option.

Explanations lacking

This smells to high heaven and gives credibility to those who charge the UK of taking advantage of little TCI. In any bad mess only the lawyers win. This time it is the UK lawyers and that is a crying shame.

At the end of the day it will be justice when the PDM party takes over with the mandate to call for cancellation of the $260m loan and nothing less.

It was lack of oversight by Britain that let this land get away from us and now Britain’s attorneys are getting paid.

This is so wrong and the FCO needs to explain the lack of oversight and the charges.

Ripped off

We are not getting value for money.

The only thing we are getting is ripped off by white collar criminals who have done nothing in over three years to bring justice for the people of the TCI.

Too many grey areas

There are too many grey areas with this entire situation and a detailed report on how $13m was racked up needs to be made public.

Actual cash recoveries were only $16.6m and for the cost to be a whopping 78 per cent of the recovery is nonsensical, especially when the worth of the other aspect of recovery, land, is only an estimated figure and there is no telling if TCIG will actually get $100m for it.

Granted so far in the past three years the UK has covered a significant portion of the CRP and SIPT costs, but there is no guarantee of that for another financial year.

And even so, partial coverage of the cost, still means that TCI taxpayers’ money is being used and the taxpayers (both British and local) have every right to know how their money is being spent.

An objective determination over value for money can only be made if the facts are made public and when taxpayer dollars are involved, there should be no question over the possibility of the facts being made public.

Insane

As usual, the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands are being screwed.

Thirteen million dollars in legal fees is INSANE!

A matter for the Appropriations Committee

Taxpayer dollars are involved so this would be

an ideal area for the Appropriations Committee to weigh in; that is if this is not one of those matters that are off-limits to the Government ELECTED by the people.

Tragic situation

The tragedy is that we have to pay to get our land back.

It was a stated fact that in 2003 that there were over 4,000 acres of Crown land left in North West Point.

The choice for any elected government was to sensibly allocate Crown land for homes and business development.

Alas ministers allowed public officers to decide who got land and in many other cases, ministers gave the rest away.

It would seem that those TC Islanders who could develop, started developing and those who were able to finance development were systemically stymied by the Crown Land Unit and the dysfunctional factor at the former TCInvest.

UK sent their gluttonous fowls to feed on the TCI

While it is appreciated that vast tangible assets which were originally the property of the state (Crown land) have been clawed back from questionable development agreements, any citizen would have to realise that the legal fee notes and their settlement is merely a scheme to provide work for the United Kingdom's well connected.

This is a slight mutation of the late Hon. Stafford Missick's statement of the British providing the corn and then sending the fowl to eat the same.

In this particular context, the UK merely sent their gluttonous fowls to feed; they brought nothing to the table.

If the Governor's Office performed their due diligence prior to signing off Crown land disposals, this would have been avoided.

Pack it up

They need to just pack it up and let us get on.

We may never recover all the squandered funds so let us truly get on with making our way.

What has happened is a tragedy brought on

through greed. However I believe we have lost enough so just let this go already.

If there are any persons to date to be charged, do that and get out of the TCI. It is like spending a dollar to make a quarter, while we the people still suffer the cost.

What is the sense in that?

No value for money

The people of the TCI are definitely not getting value for money.

We should be receiving 100 per cent of the value of the land. After all, the people were scammed!

I don’t understand how EWP has charged almost the amount that has been banked for the people of TCI. I simply think that our people are not fully informed and educated about what is going on.

Why do we even need CRP?

Governor Todd and his henchmen continue to suggest that we are stupid.

If the Civil Recovery team was paid $13m over three years, that works out to $4 plus million a year. Therefore if they are to bank only another $2.6m there will be a shortfall this year.

Further, it is a fact that 60 per cent of this money is back payment of leases by locals.

The current rule is that either you pay up or your land is taken back. This recovery process is normally the job of the Crown Land Unit.

Why do we need the CRP which is absorbing over 80 per cent of the cash collected?

They are still exploiting and using the talent in the Crown Land Unit to identify delinquent leaseholders and this is the sum total of any recovery exercise.

Why do we need this CRP if the ability to recover is already in-house?

 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

Governor invests in North and Middle Caicos schools GOVERNOR Ric Todd, in line with his promise to visit the Family Islands, was in and North and Middle Caicos on Thursday.

And donated $5,000, to be equally split among three schools: the Doris Robinson Primary School on Middle Caicos, which intends to use their share for new library resources; and North Caicos’ Adelaide Oemler Primary School, Bottle Creek, and

Charles Hubert James Primary School, Kew, both of which plan to spend the money on new playground equipment.

All of the cash comes from the Governor’s new community fund, which is paid for entirely by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Governor Todd was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Cherylann Jones, and Minister of Education,

Akierra Missick.

They were welcomed at the Sandy Point ferry terminal by District Commissioner, Donna Gardiner, and Senior Administrative Officer, Tueton Williams, before heading off to visit the staff and students.

The Governor also had a firsthand look at the repair works on the Caicos Causeway, before attending the Raymond Gardiner High School

Sports day.

Todd said: “I am always glad to be able to deliver on my promise to go out and visit the family islands.

“There is a lot of merit in doing so and I am pleased that the Premier and his Ministers are taking this on too. As the writer John Le Carre once said, a desk is a dangerous place from which to view the world.”

The Governor also visited

Ambergris Cay for the first time at the end of last month, and is expected to visit Salt Cay and South Caicos soon.

Last week he went to meet the team at the Ministry of Border Control and Labour new ‘one stop shop’ designed to improve customer service in Grand Turk and is, of course, a regular visitor to Providenciales too.

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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TCI not ready to see democracy PNP welcomes outcome of last two die, Deputy House Speaker election petitions

BY VANESSA NARINE

BY VANESSA NARINE THE Progressive National Party (PNP) welcomed the outcome of the North Caicos and Middle Caicos, and Grand Turk election petitions two of three that were in their favour.

The three petitions were filed by the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) in mid-November, after a report made to the party’s National General Council (NGC) revealed findings of procedural irregularities, briberies, infringement of the Constitution Order 2011 and breaches of the Election Ordinance 2012.

In the first of the three petitions, Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale’s ruling, last Thursday (February 7), saw a by-election being called in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills electoral district.

Justice Joan Joyner’s session, last Friday (February 8), in the North and Middle Caicos case, saw the petition being withdrawn by the petitioner.

OVERTURNED In Grand Turk, the Chief Justice Edwin Goldsborough overturned the petition on Monday (February 11).

Goldsborough noted that there was no other evidence of “fraudulent contrivance, no evidence of a deception, and only some evidence that could amount to interference” in the voting process.

In his 12-page judgment, the Chief Justice said: “Allegations that amount to criminal offences must be proved not on the balance of probabilities but beyond reasonable doubt.

“That is a high standard and difficult to attain without clear and unequivocal evidence.

“As to the bribery during cross examination the link between the money and the corrupt intent was weakened such that it could not be relied upon to support what in effect amounts to a conviction.

“And as to the undue influence whilst there was an abundance of people who think that they understood exactly what was taking place on this morning there is no clear evidence of what actually took place such that any positive findings can be made which would support a finding beyond reasonable doubt.”

He added: “When determining a case on the balance of probabilities, which option being more likely than the other, such speculation may be acceptable.

“To be sure, as is required here, allows no such luxury. There is no evidence presented that indicates to any extent knowledge on the part of the respondent of any actions, if proved, of people said to be his agents.”

HITTING THE GROUND Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, said: “We are pleased with the outcome of the last two, but are disappointed with

the outcome of the in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills petition.

“However, we as a party and as a government we are preparing ourselves and readying ourselves to go into by-elections…we are quite confident that we will return that seat to the PNP candidate.”

According to him, campaigning will be strategic and the PNP intends to make its presence more visible in the coming weeks.

Adding her bit, PDM leader and Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, said: “We believe that this decision [the withdrawal of the petition in North Caicos] will assist in moving this country along faster.

“We believe strongly in the merits of the case. We know that wrong was done and that there were grave mistakes on the part of the election machinery.

“We must push for electoral reform so that we can feel more confident in the outcomes of elections.

“We will now focus our energies on ensuring that we become the Government of the day.

“We believe that destiny has a part to play in this process and that we as a country have a second chance to take this country in the right direction.”

The margin in North and Middle Caicos was the closest of the 10 electoral districts, a mere 11 votes with the PNP’s Ricardo Don Hue Gardiner securing 261, while the PDM’s Ashwood Forbes won 250 votes.

In Grand Turk North, electoral district one, the Progressive National Party’s (PNP) George Lightbourne won by 17 votes with a total of 353, while the PDM’s Derek Rolle secured 336 votes.

A by-election is scheduled for March 22.

DEMOCRACY is rule by law not the rule of any one individual or interest - and the Turks and Caicos Islands are not ready to see democracy die.

That was according to Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Josephine Connolly, who maintained that the purpose of the House is to make laws.

Pointing to the Constitution, she noted that it makes clear that the legislature “may make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Islands” – a phrase that reiterates the essential truth - democracy is rule by law.

It has been more than two weeks since the House of Assembly majority voted to repeal Value Added Tax (VAT) and the Deputy Speaker maintained the sentiments she expressed during her presentation on the day of the vote (February 1).

In the House she said: “The reason we have a constitution is to set out in writing the rights of the citizens of the Islands: they include the right not to be discriminated against, the right to freedom of worship and the right to elect representatives to make laws for the peace, order and good governance of these Islands.

“I believe in the constitution... it is the document that protects the citizens of these Islands from injustice and dictatorships...the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands believe in the constitution.

“That is why over 90 per cent of the eligible voters were prepared to stand in the hot sun for four or five or even six hours to vote for their elected representatives...the House of Assembly, has the moral and constitutional authority to pass a law to repeal VAT. “And we have plenty of support for this position. Mr. William Hague, the Secretary of State, stated that

Deputy House Speaker Josephine Connolly

‘powers are devolved to the elected governments of the Overseas Territories’.

“Mr. Simmonds the Minister responsible for the TCI in response to a parliamentary question stated that the decision over VAT was one for the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Both the Secretary of State and Minister Simmonds now seem to have added a caveat ‘it is your decision as long as I agree’ “King Charles the first of England was happy for the parliament to enact laws as long as they were his laws and the fledgling US congress could make any laws it liked as long as they paid the taxes decided in England.

“And we the House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands can apparently pass any laws Minister Simmonds agrees to.

“So I ask why we went through the whole election process, the whole theatre of the house, the swearing in, the symbolic mace, the speaker in his wig, the clerks and oaths to the queen...was it merely a deception to

fool the outside world that the UK had restored democracy?

“Well I do not believe that the members of this honourable house should be part of any deception.

“If we cannot pass laws for the good government of these Islands we should take the mace and all the other trappings of the power and privilege of this honourable house and bury them in the garden of Waterloo.

“Because democracy will be dead in this country and all it requires is a decent funeral.”

Connolly called for Simmonds and the UK to honour their commitments made to the UK parliament and to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

According to her, the Governor and the CFO need to take a step back and recognise what damage their VAT campaign has done and continues to do to the standing of the UK representatives in these Islands.

She said: “This is not a small number of expat businessmen scaremongering, this is the whole country speaking with one united voice: the Government, the Opposition; the Chamber of Commerce; the Independent Business Council; the Association of Architects; and over 3,000 individuals who signed the petition.

“The people have spoken and we need to be heard.

“The arrogant dismissal of such a staggering opposition with such easy disdain has created a poisonous atmosphere.

“It has degraded the standing of the UK intervention in the affairs of this country and panders to the most radical voices.”

The Deputy Speaker stressed that the repeal is not only a new law, but a legitimate law with the moral authority of the democratically elected government.

By-election set for March 22 THE date of the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills by-election was announced as Friday, March 22, by Governor Ric Todd and the Supervisor of Elections, Dudley Lewis, on Tuesday.

The announcement of the date was held until the ruling on the two other election petitions were made. It would have been preferable to have had all of the by-elections on the one day.

Now as the North and Middle Caicos petition was dismissed on Friday and the Grand Turk North overturned on Monday, matters can proceed.

In accordance with the Constitution a by-election cannot be called sooner than 35 days following the seat in the House of Assembly becoming vacant and must be within

three months.

The steps in the calculation of the date of an election, as specified in the Elections Ordinance, exclude some days such as weekends or public holidays and an election is not permitted to take place on a Saturday or Sunday.

Consequently, a writ to authorise the holding of a by-election on March 22 was signed on Tuesday by the Governor.

Todd reportedly consulted separately with the Premier and Leader of the Opposition before taking this decision and agreed with the Premier that it would be right to hold the election before Palm Sunday and Holy Week.

In order to comply with the provisions of the Elections Ordinance this requires moving

the Commonwealth Day Public Holiday from March 11 to March 25.

The Governor will make the change for this year only by notice published in the Gazette under section 3 of Public Holidays Ordinance.

Governor Ric Todd said: “After some weeks of uncertainty the outcomes from the election petitions are now clear.

“As we are all aware, the court’s decision on the Cheshire Hall petition means that an equal number of elected seats in the House of Assembly are held by the PNP and PDM. “It makes sense to resolve this situation as swiftly as possible with a by-election in March.”

Dudley Lewis said: “I wish to

remind electors in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills District that the existing Register of Electors (valid until March 31) will be used for this by-election.

“To reduce the delays experienced in the previous election in November, I am arranging for an increased number of polling stations and increased voting lines in each place.

“We will give more information in due course and I ask voters to refer to the media and TCIG website for further announcements to familiarise themselves with the improved voting arrangements.”

Lewis is expected to publish further details on the arrangements for the by-election and a nomination pack for prospective candidates soon.

8

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

Premier Ewing to address CARICOM Heads-ofGovernment meeting

Premier Ewing meets with Haitian Foreign Minister Pierre-Richard Casimir and delegates

Premier to pursue matters of mutual interest while in Haiti PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, met with Haitian Minister PierreRichard Casimir and a delegation from Haiti, as well as the newly appointed Ambassador to the local Haitian Consulate, Karlo Pelissier.

The parties met at the newly opened Haitian Consulate building

in Providenciales on Friday morning.

During the meeting some headway was made on issues of trade, improving immigration and labour laws and exploring investment opportunities in a manner that will be mutually beneficial.

According to the Premier, his Government is keen on pursing these

Civil servants at last Thursday’s meeting

interests.

The Haitian delegation also met with Governor Ric Todd and discussed updating the historic cultural and trading links between the two nations, the contribution of the Haitian community to TCI society and tackling illegal immigration.

THE Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands will next week make its official return to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) at the Heads of Government meeting in Haiti, after a three-year absence.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, and Minister of Border Control and Labour, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner, are scheduled to attend the 24th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) between February 18 and 19.

Ewing is expected to address the gathering and will attend meetings with other regional leaders; CARICOM’s SecretaryGeneral Ambassador Irvine LaRocque and Chairman and President of the Haitian Republic, Michel Joseph Martelly.

An important item on the Premier’s agenda will be the reinstatement of TCI’s associate membership to the regional body.

TCI is one of five associate member states of CARICOM. The Turks and Caicos became an associate member of the regional body in 1991, but membership was suspended after the British assumed direct

rule in 2009 and suspended the constitution.

Associate membership allows the TCI to participate and benefit from projects aimed at improving the environment, education, culture and disaster management.

Commenting on the visit, Ewing said: “I am indeed excited to be attending this meeting as it offers many opportunities for the Turks and Caicos to collaborate with other Caribbean leaders in advancing my Government's mandate and our country's prosperity.

“This meeting also offers us the opportunity to re-establish ourselves within CARICOM and to address the body of Caribbean leaders to garner support for our challenges ahead.”

TCI returns to CARICOM at a time when one of its newest members Haiti hosts the conference.

Haiti assumed chair of the community, also for the first time, on January 1, 2013.

Premier Ewing and his team will leave the island on Saturday, February 15, and are expected to return on Thursday, February 21.

During his absence the Deputy Premier, Akierra Missick, will act as Premier.

Government officials engaging civil servants on matters of concern

Civil servants briefed on changes to Public Service Ordinance MEMBERS of Civil Servants Association (CSA), last Thursday, February 7, met with several Government officials and were briefed on changes to the Public Service Ordinance.

More than 200 civil servants turned up at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Centre for the meeting.

Commenting on the changes, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, said, “The new implementations will definitely be a plus and especially the 10 per cent back.

“The pay grading review once

implemented will be an incentive to attracting persons in the civil service and hopefully retaining them in the civil service.”

The ordinance sets out the rights and responsibilities of public servants, including the responsibility to report improper conduct by colleagues.

It also includes new policies, such as a Code of Conduct that was endorsed by the Public Service Commission.

Importantly also, the ordinance sets the principals of recruitment that must be followed.

Currently Permanent Secretaries are responsible for recruiting staff under their various Ministries, however, that responsibility falls to the Governor and Deputy Governor when it comes to a more senior level of staffing.

The ordinance includes guidance on workers’ relationships with ministers and clarifies the line of authority.

Changes have also been made to the conditions of employment, including retirement age and the process of terminating employment.

Deputy Governor, Anya

Williams, commenting on the changes to these conditions, said: “When you’re employed as a new staff member the probation period before was between a year and three years for some departments, which is considered a very long period of time, and has now been reduced to a probationary period of six months” The Deputy Governor is head of the public service with the responsibility for ensuring good governance and effective financial management in the territory.

Williams maintained that there

are many positive changes to the ordinance.

She said: “There are so many things we can do if we work together.”

President of the CSA, Louise Thomas, adding her bit, urged civil servants to play their part in supporting the changes to the ordinance – in the interest of a more professional and efficient public service.

CSA members are expected to have additional information, via email, on the changes to the ordinance.

February 16 - 22, 2013

9

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FacetoFace

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

with VANESSA NARINE

A series that seeks to engage the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands on issues and act as a medium through which they can hear from prominent personalities on current concerns, including on politics, development and the environment, among others.

Perceptions and a deepening chasm IN THE play of politics it is said that perception is everything.

And in the Turks and Caicos Islands the prevailing perception, which is at the centre of controversy, is that there are two governments functioning, the elected representatives and the ‘interim administration’.

That perception feeds the deepening chasm between locals and the Brits, a fact evidenced by the one man protest two weeks ago, which was staged by Bishop Reuben Johnson – the most recent show of the public’s discontent.

DIVIDE AND CONQUER Finance and Tourism Minister, Washington Misick, at the last post Cabinet press briefing, last Thursday (February 7), lashed out at the Brits and stressed that they are focused on ‘divide and conquer’.

This modus operandi has been criticised as the UK’s historic approach to dealing with its colonies, and to an extent their Overseas Territories, to ensure that the odds are in their favour at the end of the day.

According to Misick, certain actions by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) are reflective of mischief making.

Referencing the upcoming byelections, he noted that there is a clear move to divide the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Responding to similar criticisms, Governor Ric Todd, in an interview, explained that there are no confrontations with parts of the Government, which function in line

with duties outlined in the Constitution.

He said: “I think some of the commenting is simply wrong and not justified.”

The Governor lamented the use of the confrontational language by some government officials, which sparked further misconceptions.

FACT CHECK Calling for the facts to be examined clearly, Todd said: “Leave aside VAT (Value Added Tax), on what occasion has anyone blocked the Government from doing anything?

“The Government operates within the law; within the Constitution….the misconception that the Government is being blocked is untrue.

“As Deputy Governor, Anya Williams, pointed out, if the elected government wants to change the rules on anything they can do that.

“The Constitution sets out some division of power, a balance of power.

That is what every Constitution all across the world has.

“There are responsibilities that I have and there are those that the elected government has. My main responsibility is ensuring good governance and the rule of law, that those are respected and that is all that I have done.”

The Governor maintained that the prevailing perception is due largely to misconceptions.

Todd said: “There have been a number of statements in the media to suggest confrontation, but I do not think that any reasonable person in the TCI believes it.

TCIG urges consumers to take note of product recall THE Ministry of Health and Human Services is urging the public to take note of a recall of several products by Novartis Pharma Logistics, Inc. The list of products affected by this recall include Triaminic Syrups, Theraflu Warming Relief Syrups, Jack & Jill brand pediatric syrups and Buckley's® Complete Liquids.

A list of products and the lot numbers is available from the government’s website www.gov.tc.

The Ministry is advising consumers who purchased products from the lots included in this recall to stop using the product immediately and discard the remainder.

Consumers, parents and caregivers who are not sure about alternative treatment options should talk to their doctor or pharmacist.

Novartis has issued the recall because of a possible malfunction of the child-resistant feature of the

bottle cap. This failure will allow the cap to be removed with the tamperevident seal still in place.

The products being recalled were produced at a Novartis Consumer Health manufacturing facility in the US prior to the voluntary suspension of operations in December 2011. In addition to production in the US, Buckley's Complete was also produced until January 2013 at a thirdparty manufacturing site in Canada. According to reports, a consumer complaint in the US in late November 2012 triggered an internal investigation by Novartis that determined a voluntary recall was in the best interest of consumers.

A Novartis Pharma Logistics release has advised consumers who believe that they may have any of the products included in this recall, to discontinue use and discard.

Governor Ric Todd

Washington Misick

“I wish someone would tell me, besides VAT, what was done to block the Government.”

no act by the Governor or the UK to effectively counter the perception that there are two governments functioning, rather than one.

The only way to negate this is to go beyond just talking about partnership and the shared responsibilities that the Constitution outlines.

The only way to shift the current paradigm is to demonstrate partnership – partnership in practice.

The UK’s relationship with not only the TCI, but its other Overseas Territories, has been defined by a concern over the nature of governance and the balance between their respective interests.

In the first review since 1999 when the United Kingdom’s relationships

PARTNERSHIP IN PRACTICE On one hand you have the local perception that both paints the Brits in a bad light and resurrects the old criticism over an approach to governance that plays into their favour, divide and conquer.

On the other you have the UK’s significant investment in bringing the TCI back on track and the Governor calling for the facts to back up the ‘misconceptions’.

In the end the perception is what wins, not because it is the view of the majority, but because there has been

with its Overseas Territories was made public, a White Paper, titled ‘The Overseas Territories: Security, Success and Sustainability’, said: “The UK Government is determined to help the territories run themselves effectively, not to run them ourselves.”

While that commitment has been made, it needs to be put into practice to put to rest damaging perceptions and allow the Turks and Caicos Islands to move forward.

The UK’s links with the TCI are long-standing and important, for both sides.

However, important to recognise also are their individual characters and diversities, and while the intertwined relationship is strong, it is subtle and changing too.

A new kind of partnership between the UK and the TCI has to reflect the same.

What is clear is that the UK and the TCI needs to take its relationship forward - building on the best of what has gone before and charting a new course for progress and prosperity for the future.

And it has to be done soon, because the TCI cannot risk premature independence and the current state of the UK economy demands that it works closer with all of its Overseas Territories to encourage economic growth.

Misick vows to return to TCI voluntarily

BY VANESSA NARINE

MIKE Misick was released on bail in Brazil last Friday (February 8) and in a statement released this week he has vowed to return to the Turks and Caicos Islands voluntarily.

He said: “Despite my release I am still intending to voluntarily return to the Islands to clear my name from the allegations that have been levelled against me and my colleagues and which in time given a firm trial will be proven to be politically motivated.

“I, through my legal representatives have made reasonable and fair proposals to the SIPT (Special Investigation and Prosecution Team) to allow my voluntarily return to the TCI. “I have not sought to stay out or evade justice as is being falsely portrayed.”

Misick has made proposals for not only his voluntary return, but also for “fair and public” trials for him and colleagues, in accordance with the laws of the TCI. The former Premier is also

Former Premier Mike Misick

advocating for the right to trial by jury.

He said: “I merely want to have a fair trial for myself and my colleagues. If the authorities are serious in what they say about granting us a fair trial, then they should have no difficulty in accepting those reasonable proposals.”

Sir Robin Auld’s recommendation, in his Commission of Inquiry 20082009, was that provisions should be made for the criminal trials to occur without juries – a bench trial.

The justification was that it would

be difficult to assemble an impartial jury.

Misick maintained that “the ball is now in the court of the SIPT and the British government authorities” rather than with him or with the Brazilian authorities.

He said: “I look forward to returning home and continuing our struggle for true freedom and selfdetermination.”

Commenting on his release, the Attorney General (AG), Huw Shepheard, noted that while Misick has been granted bail, it does not mean that the legal process is exhausted.

He added that the TCI prosecutors submitted formal extradition papers on January 28, within the 60-day time limit.

The former Premier was arrested on December 7 by the Brazilian Federal Police acting on a provisional arrest warrant.

His arrest was sought by the TCI SIPT, set up to investigate issues arising from Sir Robin Auld’s Commission of Inquiry, which started in 2008.

10

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

VAT Ordinance Repeal – Open letter to William Hague Dear Mr. Hague, You are no doubt aware of the recent vote in the House of Assembly in the Turks and Caicos Islands in favour of repealing the VAT Ordinance.

Being that it is likely that the matter will be referred to you through your Under Secretaries of State for a decision, I would like to draw your attention to a number of issues.

Any decision should take all these matters into account, and each of them should be given the appropriate weight.

The relationship between your officials on the ground in the TCI and the elected administration, together with the public at large, is deteriorating from an already low level.

This appears to be a result of a number of factors.

There has been increasingly poor communication between the public, the Governor, and the CFO. This is because the CFO and the Governor have misrepresented a number of facts.

In addition, there has been a complete failure to address these inaccuracies.

There are far too many of these inaccuracies to outline in this letter.

However the following examples are indicative.

• VAT was presented to be revenue neutral throughout. It is now clear that it is not intended to be revenue neutral at all, but to increase revenue.

• VAT was also presented as a tax that would not increase the cost of living but now it has been accepted that it will by a significant margin.

• After a previous consultation by the IA, that included VAT, the administration stated that the decision to implement had been abandoned due to “lack of support”.

The subsequent consultation stated that the question of whether VAT should be implemented would not be considered.

• The reasons for implementing VAT that were advanced in support were flimsy, unsupported and heavily criticised.

The response was that substantial advice and research had been received from CARTAC among others and the administration was satisfied that VAT was appropriate.

The administration stated it was unable to share this information due to confidentiality agreements.

Subsequently it is now clear that the information in these documents was insubstantial and did not make a clear case for the introduction of VAT. It is of no surprise that there is now little trust and little support for the CFO and the Governor.

They have simply not been telling the truth.

Before any final decision is made on VAT, its efficacy in the specific context of the TCI will have to be evaluated.

If the support of the people of the TCI is to be garnered, this evaluation will have to be shared with them.

If there is not sufficient support, regardless of it 's efficacy or appropriateness, VAT is likely to fail.

Cooperation of the community and the politicians is a practical necessity.

Speaking on my own behalf and as someone that has, over there last three years, studied the potential effects of VAT in the specific context of the TCI. I can say that I have considerable doubts as to whether VAT is appropriate or beneficial as a tax instrument.

I do however fully accept the general benefits of VAT in most circumstances.

My problem is, almost all the internationally respected economists have outlined specific difficulties that are particular to small island economies.

The TCI exhibits all of the negative factors that determine the efficacy of VAT. Notwithstanding this, I am willing to stand aside if my concerns, and those are the same concerns as the IMF economists, are addressed.

It is particularly unfortunate that Parliament was informed on repeated occasions that VAT was a matter for the TCI government.

It now appears it is not the case. The final decision rests firmly with the UK

by Mr. Simmond's own admission.

To illustrate the manifest absurdity of the attempt to suggest that the decision is, or was, a matter for the TCIG, I will quote from a recent email from the CFO: “As I'm sure you're aware, we take our instructions from UK Ministers on key financial issues such as VAT implementation, so unless UK Ministers decide otherwise, we must continue on track to implement VAT on 1 April 2013.”

On this matter at least, I think that it would be appropriate to inform Parliament of the true facts.

The determination of the UK to push through VAT against all resistance, and with deliberate disregard for the manifest difficulties, is beyond reason.

The reasons for VAT in the TCI are uncertain and I most surely would like to present this case fully.

But it seems that circumstances have perhaps moved beyond that.

Therefore, I will go on to the more basic and immovable reasons the Repeal should be allowed: Political practicality Without the cooperation of the House of Assembly any changes to the legislation will require the use of the reserve powers.

SPACE IS LIMITED!

The budget is not approved for the full implementation of VAT therefore that approval will also have to be through reserve powers.

It has been announced that the budget will be delayed for one month therefore all appropriations will be based on the previous year’s budget that did not include VAT. There are a number of amendments that are required to allow the Ordinance to operate properly, these amendments are unlikely to be approved.

Administrative practicality Notwithstanding the provision: “The Governor may appoint different days for different provisions of this Ordinance” and the requirement was

by Notice in the Gazette, no notice was made.

Clearly the provisions for registration had to be brought into force because both the public and the courts would have to know precisely when liability for fines or convictions commenced.

I am not aware that any registrations have been completed, irregularly or not.

The Ordinance provides for three months to register before the legislation comes into full force.

To meet the April 1st deadline all registrations would have had to be completed by December 31, 2012.

As a result of this, and other reasons, the process of registration and education has not yet commenced.

The evidence that was provided to the Appropriations Committee confirms that much of the administrative infrastructure is not yet ready and is unlikely to be ready by April 1.

For example the computer system has not been started yet... obviously there is no time to complete that let alone to test it.

No one has any realistic prospect of being ready by the deadline. Any attempt to meet the deadline will result in massive loss of revenue.

This is a situation that I am sure nobody will wants to precipitate.

Legislative defects Over and above the aforementioned defects, there are numerous other defects that will almost certainly result in a plethora of legal challenges from inception.

The legislation has not been drafted with sufficient care and without regard for other laws or fundamental rights: The last court of appeal is expressed to be the Magistrates Court even though there are provisions for large fines $50,000 and above, together with custodial sentences.

This effectively ousters the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court contrary to a raft of other legislation.

The mandatory penalties are exceptionally high for even the most minor offence. These penalties amount to cruel and unusual punishment.

Unrestricted powers of search and seizure are conferred without warrant or reasonable cause. This power does not only extend to registered or unregistered business but to any person.

There is no proper provision to protect the confidentiality of business data.

There is no provision to allow compensation for stock in hand when VAT comes into operation. Businesses will either have to simply add 11 per cent to the prices or give an 11 per cent discount. Either way this will cause a significant loss.

The legislation proposes that owners of apartments will have to become part of third party agents for rental and maintenance and so on.

This is a fundamental interference with property rights and affects the original rights that the owner had prior to the legislation.

There are many more legislative difficulties but space does not allow for a comprehensive overview.

Restrictions on the power to tax or appropriate public funds without explicit Grant of Parliament.

I am certain that the power to make legislation for a new form of taxation does not exist except by explicit Grant of Parliament or the local representative authority. For this reason the legislation should be repealed.

There are two principle reasons that this is the case. Both of these reasons are principally true because that power does not exist in the UK either.

So far as the TCI Constitution Order 2011 and those previously, the relevant provisions are the same, even during the reign of the interim amendment orders. "(2) Nothing in any law or done under its authority shall be held to contravene subsection (1)— (a)to the extent that the law in question makes provision for the interference with, taking of possession or acquisition of any property, interest or right— (i) in satisfaction of any tax, rate or due;" ..."provided that the provision or, as the case may be, the thing done under its authority is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society;" The first question; is imposition of a substantial change in the tax system appropriate in a democratic society if it was the arbitrary decision of a single unelected person?

The second question is would it be appropriate to veto a repeal that was voted for unanimously by elected representatives?

The answers to these question appears to be self-evident. However

I must draw your attention the word “reasonably”.

Any decision that you may take must not only be rational but must also be proportionate.

This is not ordinarily the case but the provision requires it.

The more fundamental question is are the powers of the Governor, or Her Majesty on the advice of her Privy Council, to make laws for the “peace, order and good government”, in any way restricted?

Principally that turns on one thing, does the Bill of Rights 1689 have full effect in the TCI. If it does no taxation or appropriation could be legal without the explicit Grant of Parliament or a local representative authority.

This is the same effect it currently has in the UK. The question of the validity of laws in the Colonies was addressed in the Colonial Laws Validity Act. It says that no Colonial Law can be invalidated unless it is repugnant to an Act of Parliament that is either explicitly or for the necessary intendment of the colony.

But any law that is made contrary to an Act is void and of absolutely no effect.

I have taken the view, being the Bill of Rights is a current Act of Parliament and it must be for the necessary intendment of the TCI, it follows that the powers regarding taxation and appropriation must be limited in the same way as they are in the UK. Therefore, the powers are restricted to that extent.

Some doubt has been cast over whether the Bill of Rights is necessarily intended for the TCI, even though it contains provisions for the succession of the Crown.

This question actually came up in Parliament in 1700 and they saw fit to pass an Act that explicitly stated that the Bill of Rights extended to the Turks & Caicos Islands.

This is recorded in the Reception of Laws of the TCI in 1848, the first compendium of laws for the TCI. The Attorney General has been unable to traverse these assertions but has invited for the matter to be tried.

We shall all have to wait for the result of this. The only reason that this matter has not already been advanced is because all other possible means must have been exhausted.

If VAT were allowed to be forced on the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands it would be a disaster that would cause a significant loss of revenue. The question of whether there should be an alternative to VAT is moot given the circumstances. I am sure that with proper evaluation, an alternative to VAT is not beyond agreement between all parties. I hope that common sense will prevail.

Respectfully, Jerzy Kolodziej, Grand Turk.

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

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

continued

Good governance for all – Open letter to William Hague Dear Hon. Hague, I take this opportunity to write to you in your capacity as first Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs with overall responsibility for the Governance of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Hon. Hague as stated in my address to Minister Simmonds and members present at the recently held Joint Ministerial Council, I thank the UK government for the restoration of democracy in the Turks and Caicos Islands through the holding of elections that have enabled the establishment of a democratically elected government of the people, by the people and for the people.

Hon Hague, I however express our concerns as it relates to the good governance of the territory during this current post election period.

As a newly elected government we are committed to good governance and the rule of law, but adherence to such principles should apply to all persons, at all levels of government, including the Governor and Attorney General.

Hon. Hague, I recall attending a town hall meeting in early 2012 hosted by the Governor.

Amongst the matters tabled at this meeting was the issue relating to VAT. At that meeting, there were several members of the community who expressed their displeasure at the arrogant and dictatorial manner in which the Governor handles the affairs of the country.

At the end of the meeting I posed a simple question to the Governor, “Would an elected Government be able to repeal and reverse any of the laws and decisions of the interim administration?”

His answer was simply: "Yes as long as it is in conformation with the Constitution and the law."

The answer was perfect, and he said it with a chuckle. Hon. Hague, this brings me to this point, our current Constitution.

Hon. Hague, many of the current atrocities and wrongful acts that are being committed by the Governor and the Attorney General are being done contrary to the stated principals and ideals of our Constitution and international laws of human rights, and some of these acts are being perpetrated under the cover of the Constitution.

These actions seriously bring into question, both the character of these individuals, as well as questioning elements of the Constitution, its legality and its fairness.

Hon. Hague, the Turks and Caicos Constitution Order 2011, is not a Constitution of the people, by the people or for the people, and hence it should be amended and advanced, and we should start this process immediately through the proper procedures and dialogue.

In the interim, we would expect that the territory of Turks and Caicos be governed by the 2011 Constitution, but with fairness, and the real best interest of the people, as expressed by themselves or through their elected government.

This position has been articulated on many occasions in the past. It was stated on many occasions on behalf of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, that the very suspension of the 2006 Constitution was unnecessary.

It was well established that there were many other options available to address alleged corruption and maladministration of a government of which the former Governor Tauwhare, was at the centre and head.

During the interim administration, the Governor had absolute power, and exercised this power, regardless of the expressed wishes of the people of our

country!

During this period, there was a total disregard for the Constitution with respect to the appointment of a Belonger Deputy Governor.

In the absence of the Governor, other members of the interim administration were appointed as Acting Governor, in direct contravention of the constitutional order laid down.

There was the passage of an Appropriations Bill by the Governor himself.

We also witnessed the passage of other laws, such as trial without jury, the hearsay and equality law, components of which go against our principles as a Christian nation.

During the period of the interim administration, the Governor became comfortable to a dictatorial style of rule.

Now, however, in the presence the newly elected representative government, the Governor and other remaining officials from the former administration, the Attorney General and the Chief Financial Officer, have demonstrated a reluctance to facilitate the transition of governance back to the people of this country.

Hon. Hague, the alleged wrongdoings of members of the former PNP administration and associates is quickly being exposed as being a farce, impregnated with cloak and dagger acts on the part of the Governor, AG Chambers and SIPT, to incarcerate Turks and Caicos Islanders at all costs, even at the cost of the violation of the principles of justice and the human rights of individuals.

There is now a growing focus by the regional and international community on this matter, as blatant acts of “justice for sale” have been conducted here in the TCI under the disguise of plea bargaining.

Such cases include many wellknown expatriate developers who have secured their freedom from prosecution, both by monetary

COMMENTARY

Help Wanted Help is needed for Middle ‘Grand’ Caicos the largest and most beautiful and unspoiled island.

Currently one of the main attractions is the Middle Caicos cave sites. Indian cave is not being maintained and access to it must be weeded on a monthly not yearly basis. There is no charge for visiting “Indian Cave” and it is a natural and historical site in route to the main cave. The “cave” is receiving attention but it has not reached its potential as a visitor experience.

The road from the airport to the cave site is very short and

By David Tapfer very rough. The opposition asked for repairs in the first House meetings and this was virtually ignored.

However close at hand working the causeway is the equipment which can easily fill and grade this short stretch of road, less than one day’s work.

Since the government will not act perhaps the contractor will donate the little bit of equipment time needed to make this difference.

The welcome center at the cave has sanitary facilities but no power for the water system. Thirteen thousand dollars has been quoted by Fortis to bring power the 100 yards to the site from the road and power lines.

Fortis is a firm who has shown interest in community projects and

exchange under the guise of "Civil Recovery" and by providing evidence against accused local politician “coconspirators”.

Hon Hague, the sale of justice is not an example of good governance!

Furthermore, it is quite evident that the Governor is deeply involved with the day to day operations of the SIPT, hence, is subject to impaired judgment, or has questionable motives in overseeing the affairs of this country.

Hon Hague during the period of the interim administration, the Governor assented to numerous pieces of legislation and undertook many reforms which were meant to create an environment of good governance and effective and efficient administration during a period of economic downturn.

However, these legislations, reforms, austerity measures and tax policies that were implemented in preference to robust revenue strategies resulted in high unemployment, social neglect, large emigration of members of the workforce, abundant business closures and much civil unrest.

These effects were coupled with a Governor, who ruled without a social conscience, and had no respect for the business community or indigenous local community, many of whom have publically expressed reciprocal sentiments of the Governor.

The Governor and his administration, in their haste to expedite their mandate or agenda ended up violating many principles of good governance that had recently been approved and committed many acts that were similar, or identical to those that members of the previous administration were alleged to have committed.

These acts were of such magnitude that even those persons who called for the intervention of the UK government were calling for the recall of the Governor and regretted the method of intervention by the British.

Hon. Hague, the financial trough that the Turks and Caicos is currently in, due in part to the preferential austerity measures by the Governor is not insurmountable, as the potential of the Turks and Caicos is great and the

future is bright.

We acknowledge our properly verifiable debt, and are committed to the repayment of this debt.

However, the financial strategy for economic growth and loan repayment via VAT that is mandated by the various financial mandates of the CFO and the Governor, are not the way to prosperity.

The arguments against VAT in the TCI, and the need for the current method of taxation and economic diversification and growth as avenues to prosperity have all been well articulated by many.

The people of this country from all sectors and the representatives of the people, in the House of Assembly, have all said “NO TO VAT” and are all in agreement with the economic strategies put forward by the government.

Denial of the expressed wishes of the people, would be a clear indication of democracy not being restored to the people of the TCI! Hon. Hague as stated already, our beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos has a bright future.

But the current Governor, Attorney General and CFO, as remnants of the previous administration are obstacles in the way of prosperity.

They never have, and even more so now, enjoyed the trust, confidence and support of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

I am hereby requesting that Governor His Excellency Damian Todd, Attorney General Huw Shepeard and the Chief Financial Officer Hugh McGarrel-Groves be recalled and replaced by unbiased individuals, better suited to adapt to and to work synergistically with a democratically elected government, the business community and the local community.

This will ensure that all stakeholders will have a fresh start at governing the Turks and Caicos Islands in the best interest of our people.

Respectfully

this is one they can do with minimal cost and maximum impact. Service drop conductors, a couple of short utility poles and small transformer are obviously in stock and they have equipment and personnel nearby who can do the work quickly.

We preach cleanliness and we direct our visitors to a crude privy at the cave while standing by are two complete toilet facilities, water pump, water tank and a welcome center which can promote a better visitor experience.

National Trust cannot afford the 13 grand quoted by Fortis but once installed they can pay the power bill.

Therefore as a private citizen we are asking causeway contractors and Fortis for help on this simple project.

The trust was due to be assigned some portion of the accommodation tax. This has never happened. While we celebrate our tourists as the basis for our economy we must also realize they walk over our ecology, national parks and historical sites.

Therefore a portion of the income derived from their visits must go to preservation.

Our former government had the parks and all land, historical or not in their gun sights as another way to finance what is now bringing them to court. They side tracked the trust for six years and the interim government did not help either.

They had other priority issues, so does the current representative for Middle Caicos.

Unless the Trust is funded its challenges are impossible to meet and our beautiful by nature and our rich history will be swept under the carpet of lack of attention.

Also unrecognized on central Grand Caicos is the Haulover Plantation, Armstrong Ponds, stone henge and other projects which if opened up could serve to reinvigorate the largest island which has no private employment.

Help is needed and we are asking in good faith.

Dr. The Hon. Rufus W. Ewing Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

Draft immigration reform policy for Select Committee

BY VANESSA NARINE A DRAFT immigration reform policy is currently being worked on and will be referred to a Select Committee in the House of Assembly soon, according to and Minister of Border Control and Labour, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner.

The Minister, speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, made it clear that the policy will be referred to the Committee for review so that when it is presented to the House it will enjoy the support of members from both sides.

According to him, immigration reform is not a Progressive National Party (PNP) or People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) issue, but one that must be addressed collaboratively in the interest of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).

He explained that a skills audit is being looked to review the manpower needs in the TCI, an important step in immigration reform as it will inform a population policy going forward.

Gardiner maintained that the formulation of a population policy is key to the nation’s development as it will protect the interest of locals, as well as position the country’s immigration legislations in line with plans for developing the economy, which cannot be done without growing the population.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, adding his bit, stated that the TCI has to grow its population in order to advance.

According to him, the approach to this has to be comprehensive,

addressing: regulation of persons currently in the TCI; exploring niche markets such as development of retirement communities, among others, to encourage population growth; as well as the development of physical and social infrastructure to support population growth – all of which tie in with growing the economy.

When the preliminary results of the 2012 Census were released, in July 2012, political leaders and other stakeholders agreed that a strategic and coherent population policy is needed for the TCI.

Minister of Border Control and Labour, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner

STRATEGIC MOVES In a prior interview with the Weekly News, Professor and Economist, Gilbert Morris, noted that the basis for development of a coherent population policy must focus on strategically increasing the population.

According to him, policy makers need to know what development is needed and identify the resources needed to advance that development.

He pointed to the need for a skills bank to be established, where every student graduating is required to have their resume entered at the bank, to aid policy makers in their decision making and planning.

Morris said: “This way, when a decision is being made we have this information to rely on…we have to protect our young people. In the end we should know how many expats we need.”

The Economist, who also served

as Chairman of the Board of Directors of TC Invest up to 2009, made it clear that taking carefully planned steps, TCI can work towards having a coherent population policy.

He added that such a policy will allow TCI to deal with illegal immigrants and grow the population at the rate that is right for the nation’s development.

According to him, TCI can grow the population and domestic market creatively, by tapping into the new markets.

Morris pointed to offering crown land for the establishment of medical schools that are facing the challenge of expansion due to the lack of land, which results in hundreds of students being turned away.

He said: “This was we have a temporary population…we get all the housing, entertainment and government gets student visas, then their parents and friends come

and visit, that is tourism. This how we expand our population without expanding our population.”

The Economist added that in this way too, TCI will not lose benefits from international donors since the having a large number of expatriates whose economic position is better than locals is not data that will influence donors.

Morris said: “We have to be creative so that we will be able to classify the expatriate community in such a way that we are not excluded from accessing benefits.”

On that note, the Economist acknowledged the anti-expat disposition of many TC Islanders, but stressed that TCI’s treatment of its expatriate community will determine how the world deals with the TCI. He said: “The question is how to develop a policy that allows us to have a good record as it relates to the treatment of the expatriate community, to have the right kind of human rights record to take to international partners.”

GET OVER YOURSELF Morris made it clear that TC Islanders who have an anti-expat disposition need to “get over” themselves.

“Get over yourself, we need expats,” he stressed.

According to him, annual reviews, be it the International Labour Organisation (ILO) or the Red Cross or Amnesty, will be what international partners will look at.

He said, “They will look at our

human rights record.

“We cannot sit around saying that they are stealing our jobs. If that is the case then it is because we have been unimaginative. Just because you have an MBA doesn’t mean you can run anything…you need to be tested.”

Morris that the balancing act comes in here: on one hand recognizing the need for expats and treating them right; and on the other protecting the interest of the local youth.

The Economist suggested internship programmes to give graduates the experience they need and making volunteerism a condition for work permits, so there can be a transfer of skills – all in the interest of local development.

According to the 2012 TCI Government Population and Housing Census, the total population of the Islands at 31,458, with nonBelongers account for 57.5 per cent of the adult population.

In 1970, Belongers accounted for 96.4 per cent, while non-Belongers accounted for only 3.6 per cent. In 1980 that move to 83.8 Belongers and 16.2 per cent non-Belongers, while in 1990 it was 68.9 per cent Belongers and 31.1 non-Belongers. At the last census in 2001 the breakdown was 52 per cent Belongers and 48 per cent non-Belongers.

Currently in Providenciales, which is the most populated, the percentages translate to a total of 6,667 Belongers and 10,763 nonBelongers.

Simeon Rigby I think by-elections would be a good idea if that’s what it takes to get things sorted out to get back on the right track.

Stanley Stubbs I think the current government (PNP) should go a little bit longer and then based on their performance then the decision of whether the country should have by-election or not, should be made.

Merveirille Rockefeller I feel good now because PNP is going to win again. We want Amanda back again.

Royal Robinson Jr. I feel that by-elections are something that shouldn’t even be called for at the moment. Even if there is a coalition government, they could do something like that instead of just trying to fight for power.

Residents voice their opinions on the March by-election decision Perry Wright If things went wrong and they feel like it has to be done over then it’s only right.

Efrem Stubbs It’s a process within our history that we have to go through to accomplish where we need to go.

Only the community at large can decide who the better candidate is.

Devon Williams I’m happy that everyone is going to be satisfied and that justice is served.

The outcome will remain simple and the best candidate will win again.

Henry Lewis The law has prevailed and the court has ruled.

February 16 - 22, 2013

NEWS 13

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

No word from AG on inquiry into stamp duty fraud

BY VANESSA NARINE IT HAS been over a year since the Attorney General (AG), Huw Shepheard, said he instructed Helen Garlick of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) to probe the possibility that stamp duty fraud was being aided by local legal practitioners.

However, to date there has been no word on the probe.

Shepheard, on August 31, asked SIPT to find out if locally practicing lawyers had been illegally arranging land sales to underpay stamp duty owed to the government.

The AG made the request after

Supreme Court Justice G.W. Martin ruled in June 2011 that two companies involved in the 2006 sale of Emerald Cay avoided more than $1m in stamp duty in “a carefully crafted scheme of tax evasion” that would not have been possible without the assistance of attorneys.

American billionaire, Timothy Blixseth, who bought the property for $28 million, denied any wrongdoing in the transaction.

The attorneys, Timothy O'Sullivan and Gordon Kerr, who, according to Justice Martin, carefully crafted the documents to disguise the true sales price, are members of the law firms of Miller, Simons and O'Sullivan, and

Misick and Stanbrook respectively.

The firm’s managing partner, Carlos Simons, at the time was not named as being involved in this deal.

At the close of the case against the Emerald Cay buyers, Justice Martin said: “It is disappointing that any attorney should so far neglect his professional obligations as to become involved.

“I invite the Attorney General to investigate and if thought appropriate to consider making a formal complaint to the Bar Council.”

The judge asked the AG to investigate the transaction to see if a formal complaint should be made against lawyers under the Legal

Haitian Foreign Affairs Minister, Pierre Richard-Casimir, cuts the ceremonial ribbon; flanked by Governor Ric Todd, left, and Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, right

Profession Ordinance.

Because stamp duty is a major source of government revenue, Shepheard said he also wanted “to establish whether the practice of deliberate underpayment has prevailed more widely throughout the TCI and if so, whether there is evidence of the commission of criminal offences.”

Shepheard said the investigation would require more expertise than TCI police possess, hence his decision to refer the matter to the SIPT, which has been investigating allegations of corruption in former governments and other matters since 2009.

The local Bar Council, labelled

the AG’s statements over the probe as reckless since it led many to believe that the entire profession is to be investigated.

It added that it has diminished the reputation of attorneys and the practice of law in the TCI. The council also questioned by what authority the AG acted in enlarging and extending the remit of SIPT to conduct such a wide spread investigation where a very specific complaint had been made by a judge.

Shepheard is reportedly out of the country until March, due to health complications, and currently the Acting AG is Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles.

Officials at the opening of the Haitian Consulate in the TCI

New Haitian Consulate promises greater collaboration between countries

BY VANESSA NARINE

Haitian Ambassador to the Turks and Caicos Islands, Karlo Pelissier

THE Haitian Consulate, which opened last Friday (February 8), brings with it the promise of greater trade, investment opportunities and better working relations - greater collaborations - with the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Newly appointed, Haitian Ambassador to the Turks and Caicos Islands, Karlo Pelissier, noted that the opening was a long overdue one, adding that his focus here will be on fostering cooperation.

“This is the first step to good relations,” he said.

According to him, the TCI Government now has a more direct route to address concerns involving the local Haitian population, in particular the issue of illegal migration to the TCI. Pelissier said his country is open for business, a phrase popularly

used by Haiti’s President, Michel Martelly.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, picked up on the investment point and added that there are investment opportunities for both countries to explore for mutual benefit.

He suggested the opening of a TCI desk in Haiti, a reciprocal gesture, to facilitate future engagements between the countries.

Ewing stated that bi-lateral relations will be improved with the opening of the consulate, and added that so will efficiency in documentation for legal Haitian migrants who would have had a harder time in the past.

The Premier stated that the opening of the consulate is a proud moment for those who lobbied for it and maintained that his Government is committed to working with Haiti.

Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, Leader of the Opposition, reiterated

this commitment, stressing that the collaboration between countries will also support the assimilation of Haitians into the TCI community.

Governor Ric Todd, who surprised the gathering with his French, made it clear that the TCI and Haiti have much shared history and the opening of the consulate is also an opportunity to celebrate and highlight the cultural and other similarities – an effort to raise the profile of Haiti locally.

According to him, while the TCI is committed to enforcing the rules, it will be fair and open to collaborations.

The Haitian Foreign Affairs Minister, Pierre Richard-Casimir, at the end of the simple ceremony cut the ceremonial ribbon and declared the consulate open.

The Haitian Consulate is located at the Southern Shores Building in Providenciales.

14 NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Smart Entrepreneurship

Is your business feeling the love?

THIS week many Entrepreneurs will be spending money and indeed time to impress that special someone, to prove their love so to speak.

You will remind yourselves how mesmerised you are about the very thought of that special someone.

You are excited about your love and can’t wait to tell someone else about him or her. The people in your circle think you are truly obsessed with your love.

This brings me to the question is your business feeling this type of love from you?

Are you sleeping and dreaming about your business? Are you so excited about your business until you tell everyone you come into contact with? Are you constantly strategizing about what to do in order to improve your business? Are you so excited about your every day date with your business until you can’t wait to get out of bed, get dressed and begin the day’s tasks?

What am I saying?

Fellow entrepreneurial friends, one of the key traits a business owner needs to have is love or passion for his or her business. It is difficult

to successfully build a business without passion, it is an essential ingredient. It can help to energize you in challenging times and it can help motivate your employees. Our passion makes not only employees, but potential investors and indeed customers to believe in our vision.

No doubt commercialization, may cause your passion to be running high for that significant other this month, but what about that passion for your business?

As a Training Consultant I am passionate about empowering entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams. I get a thrill out of the various success stories. Let me inject that success does not have to mean a healthy bottom line. I love the fact that a person can take an idea that God planted in them and develop it into a successful enterprise. I love the fact that an entrepreneur can then use that money making enterprise to help others by offering better wages, employee benefits and giving back to their community. I love the fact that customers can be helped through businesses providing better service and products.

this week

Friday, February 15 to Saturday, February 22

By Sophia Thomas

Business Consultant and Trainer

As entrepreneurs our passion increases our willpower and energy to do what is necessary to achieve our goals. Many entrepreneurs are guilty of loading up on coffee, energy drinks and the like, but without that love and passion for what you are doing, the caffeine would be ineffective.

Someone once said that we should not view managing our business as a chore but should see it an enjoyable activity. Our passion for our business keeps us focused when challenges arise and we want to quit.

I believe that without passion many entrepreneurs would not have survived the recent recession. Thank you passion!

So if you truly once loved your business than it is worth purring the time, energy and yes money into making it a successful venture. If you feel like your flame might have been burning low, use this week to rekindle the passion and get yourself reenergized for this year ahead.

For further information and assistane please contact me at fenelonempowerment@yahoo.com or 231-2486

Friday, February 15  Danny Buoy’s is Provo’s premier live music and sports destination, serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30am. It is the perfect place to escape from the heat and hang with friends, all in smoke free airconditioned comfort. Happy Hour specials from 4-7pm MondaySaturday  Get into the weekend mood with the intense and electrifying Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm. Free for fitness members, $12 for non-members.

Visit www.gracewaysports.com for more information or call 4426349.  Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 946-8666 for details

Spectrum of hope – By Nicole Cox

(Part 3) THE best advice I can think of for just the average, well-meaning person when encountering someone with Autism or suspected Autism is to treat them with respect.

Never assume because someone is on the spectrum that they are not intelligent! On the contrary, in many cases intelligence in persons on the spectrum may just be heightened or very concentrated in one or more areas rather than generalized and balanced in the brain.

Information is stored in random places and may not be organized or processed correctly, oh, but it is in there. I will never forget how heartbroken I was in a doctor’s waiting room to hear a child who was very clearly on the spectrum, though most likely undiagnosed, repeating over and over, “You’re so stupid!”, as a self-stimulatory tick.

So tragic.

Only slightly more tragic than the blatant assault on the psyche of a four-year-old is the social bullying and/or shunning older children, teens and adults who have Asperger’s must endure.

Yes, I did say adults as well!

Because the sad truth is that most

people still mock what they do not understand. And the socially awkward, quirky, moody, literal, rigid person in the crowd is always easier to mock than to simply work to understand.

It is so much easier to call them weird, crazy, emotional, sloppy or to plain ignore them and pass them over.

And in subtle and not so subtle ways, since we as a collective society are STILL CHOOSING to remain uneducated about the traits of the spectrum personality, we are desperately trying to marginalize a growing population of our world.

Thanks to education and exposure, persons who would have resigned themselves to lives in recluse years ago, are now demanding through their own voices or advocates on their behalves to be given an opportunity to excel on their own merit according to their own strengths.

Their value is not typical. It is not textbook, but it is value nonetheless.

If you have a child whom you even suspect is on the spectrum, respect them and educate yourself to give them every opportunity to reach their full potential, wherever

that may be. If you know of a teen or adult whom you even suspect is on the spectrum, greet them with the same gravity as another.

Educate yourself on the world as their minds interpret it and bend your reality to encompass their truth.

Being 60 per cent geek, one of my favorite movie trilogies was The Matrix.

Based on a premise that the world is actually a computer generated virtual reality, heroes with phenomenal mental prowess struggle to break all mankind free from this false reality and truly live. In a fascinating scene, the archetypical champion of the cause, Neo, meets some children inside the virtual world, all of whom are candidates to take his place should he fail. One is bending a spoon with the power of his mind as a game. When Neo asks the boy how he can do that, he replied very matter-of-factly: “There is no spoon.”

I know too much about Autism Spectrum Disorder to put people at ease when they ask me if I have hopes that with therapy Josiah can be “normal”.

With therapy Jo will be the best Jo he can be…there is no normal.

 If you are looking for a serene and relaxed way of starting your weekend, bring your yoga mat at Graceway Sports Centre every Saturday at 9am and let David Bowen lead you into the wonderful world of yoga! Amazing fees for an amazing class! More info at 442-6348.  Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at Graceway Sports Centre for mothers and their little ones.

Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake!

Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome!

Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

Friday, February 22

autism awareness

Autie, Aspie and In-between

tciway.tc and visit http://www. middlecaicos.biz for more information on the Middle Caicos Sailboat Association.

Saturday, February 16  13th Annual Valentine’s Day Cup Bambarra Beach, Middle Caicos - The Traditional Model Sailboat Races of the Turks & Caicos Islands Come and celebrate the day, learn about this fantastic traditional sport, try out your skills, enjoy local cooking! New sponsors and volunteers are always needed, so lend us a hand.

Email middlecaicos@

 Providenciales Primary School 2nd Annual Great Family Skate!

Lace up your skates and join us for PROVIDENCIALES PRIMARY SCHOOL'S 2nd annual GREAT FAMILY SKATE, a fun, family friendly night of great music and great skating at the Graceway Sportscentre.

Food and drinks for sale and prizes for winners of the puckshooting contest (we'll provide the sticks).

Dance area will be set up for those not skating. Children must have adult supervision and wear a helmet while in the rink. Entry fee: $10/skaters, $5/non-skaters (non-skaters under 3 are free). For tickets and/or more information, contact Haley Weldon:hfweldon@ gmail.com Fun starts at 5:30pm

Got an event you wish to advertise?

Call us on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com for a free listing.

Your event listed here!

February 16 - 22, 2013

NEWS 15

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Laws being updated to address animal control

BY VANESSA NARINE LEGISLATION is presently being updated to address the problem of animal control in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It will also assist in enforcing penalties for acts that compound the current effort at control.

At a press conference on Wednesday, Government veterinarian, Dr. Mark Butler, explained that there Dogs Ordinance and the Control of Animals Ordinance speak to different issues; however, the updated legislation will present a more comprehensive framework for animal control.

Asked about the establishment of a pound, he said the capital costs of a pound is one thing and the yearly operational costs another, which is why in the long term the focus is on the spay and neuter programme.

He added that that the current work being done to address animal control is a three-pronged approach: the spay and neuter programme, legislation change and education.

Butler maintained that the education campaign is key in affecting change in the TCI. According to the Minister of Environment and Home Affairs, Porsha Stubbs-Smith, the management and staff of the Animal Health Services Division have been working assiduously, despite the

shortage of resources and manpower, to decrease the numbers of feral dogs and eradicate the problems.

However, in recent weeks, she noted that the work of this unit has been jeopardised and frustrated by person who tamper with the traps set by the staff.

She said: “In some cases the trap doors have been closed preventing the feral dogs from entering, or the dogs already caught in the traps have been released. The situation has further escalated to the point where the traps are now being stolen…. even as we try to manage the many complaints about the feral dog situation, the very efforts that are being employed to eradicate the problem are being sabotaged for personal interests, whether it is for fun or for the fulfillment of another sinister agenda.”

STAFF THREATENED Stubbs-Smith noted that department staff has received a number of death threats, in their effort to address the feral dog situation.

She said: “This is a serious criminal offence which makes it difficult and dangerous for them to perform their duties as they now fear for their lives. This behaviour is unbecoming for those who live in our community.”

According to her, the law of the land must be respected.

Revenue Control gives business owners 30-days to regularise and pay up OWNERS, managers and operators of businesses registered within the Turks and Caicos Islands have 30 days, effective February 12, to regularise their operations.

The Revenue Control Unit in the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Tourism, on Tuesday, called for all businesses to regulate their status within 30 days to ensure that they are in good standing in relation to the payment of all fees, charges and arrears.

TCIG is expected to publish the names of those businesses that are not in good standing in order that the community is aware of all legitimate businesses operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands after the 30-day period.

According to the Revenue

Unit, individuals who fail to comply with this notice will have their Business Licences suspended and revoked under Section 10 and 11 of the Business Licensing Ordinance.

Operators of businesses that have ceased operations are required under section eight and nine of the Business Licensing Ordinance, to give notice of changes in the particulars of the business, including the date the business ceased to operate.

There are penalties for failing to adhere to these requirements which have been expressly provided in writing to all licence holders.

Proprietors are urged to ensure that their Business Licence is current; otherwise TCIG will commence legal proceedings against all defaulters.

The estimated the feral dog population is between 2,500 and 3,000

The Minister said: “The Turks and Caicos Islands is a country with laws and regulations like any other country in the world. Such laws must be adhered to by all as they protect residents and tourists alike. Groups and individuals within the community who have personal interests and agendas need be reminded that these responsibilities

reside in the Agriculture Department and it is these officers who are carded with the responsibility and authority to control the feral dog situation.

“As such, Civil Servants carrying out their responsibilities should not be threatened by anyone particularly those who seem to have no respect of, and intention of complying with the law. The matter has been reported

to the police and those participating in these activities will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

“These actions by callous individuals and the resultant factors affect the very fragile industry that we thrive on – the Tourist Industry.

Feral dogs on the streets, vicious attacks on residents and tourists, driving risks and overturned garbage cans are not the images depicting a country that we call ‘Beautiful by Nature’.”

Stubbs-Smith called for the public to cooperate with the Department, as it seeks to make the TCI safe and preserve its ‘beautiful by nature’ reputation.

“Our actions, whether good or bad, have consequences. Let us ensure that the activities in which we participate are those that will build the country and set an example to others,” she said.

The Minister made clear her commitment to work with minimum resources currently available to address the feral dog problem.

The estimated the feral dog population is between 2,500 and 3,000.

Changes for the electricity industry possible with a new regulatory framework THERE could be possible changes for the electricity industry, with the future regulatory framework up for discussion at Cabinet level.

Cabinet, at their February 6 meeting, agreed to consider at a future meeting the regulatory framework for the electricity industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Fortis TCI President and CEO, Eddinton Powell, said: “The Turks and Caicos Islands has the safest and most reliable electricity system in the region.

“Notwithstanding, Fortis TCI is prepared to work with TCIG to further modernise the regulatory framework in ways that would achieve measurable benefits for all stakeholders and ensure the continued development of the electricity sector in the entire country.”

Early in January, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, met with the management team of Fortis TCI to make acquaintances and to discuss matters relating to the energy sector and in particular the high cost of electricity.

Ewing addressed the high cost of electricity to consumers and the need for the creation of policies that would result in the sustainable reduction of electricity cost to TCI consumers.

Also discussed were the factors that contributed to the high cost of electricity.

Eddinton Powell

The meeting also analysed possible solutions including reducing the cost of fuel importation, and improving energy efficiency in homes.

The men discussed options that included consumers generating energy from alternative sources and selling back to the grid as well as the possibility of Fortis' commercial generation of alternative energy for sale to consumers.

After the meeting, Ewing said: “It was very important to have met the president and CEO of Fortis parent company out of Canada, to

outline first-hand the challenges faced by the consumers in the TCI and to hear the concerns of Fortis and foster a working relationship that is mutually beneficial that would result in a significant and sustainable reduction in the cost of electricity to our consumers.”

Minister Lightbourne and his team of Permanent Secretary, Wesley Clerveaux, and Electricity Commissioner, Malike Cummings, agreed to focus on the development of a new energy policy along the lines of the solutions that were discussed.

(VANESSA NARINE)

Lifestyle...

16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

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.

Age defying exercise THERE is no way to stop the clock of aging, but it is possible to slow it down with exercise.

We have all heard of the eighty year old that is running a marathon, and he is a great inspiration. We will all not achieve his level of activity, but even small amounts of exercise defy the aging process.

Exercise has many known benefits. It contibutes to your well being and it improves your muscle tone and body weight. With exercise you look and feel better. It improves your energy level, your sleep patterns and your eating habits. The benefits don't stop there; it actual has an affect on the aging process.

Chile-Lime Peanuts

People who exercise regularly have a greater life expectancy. Exercise helps stave off age related disease such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Some recent studies involving twins have shown that by exercising there are changes at the level of genetic material; the DNA. When comparing the chromosone length, which is an indicator of aging, a twin who regularly exercise has less signs of aging.

Another important study that was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine looked at an individuals aerobic power and independence in the later years.

The aerobic power is a measure of the bodies ability to uptake oxygen when exercising. With age this decreases. Exercise, even at a later age can improve the aerobic power.

With this improvement individuals can live longer more productive and independent lives thanks to the benefits of training and exercise.

One of the more significant perils

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician Dr. Joe LeMoine

of aging is falls. About 30 per cent of individuals over 65 experience a fall every year, many require medical

treatment. It is one of the most significant factors leading to changing in behavior and avoiding going out and one of the principal reasons for admission into a nursing home. A review of over a hundred studies looking at the effects and prevention of falls in 55,000 people in 15 countries concluded that an exercise program that emphasized strength, balance and flexibility was the best treatment

health Tip 

Peanut ‘Punch’ These spicy nuts were inspired by ones sold by street vendors across Mexico. If you can only find salted peanuts, omit the added salt. Add the maximum amount of cayenne pepper if you want an extra hit of spice.

Ingredients: • 6 tablespoons lime juice • 6 tablespoons chili powder • 4 teaspoons kosher salt • 1/2-1 teaspoon cayenne pepper • 6 cups unsalted cocktail peanuts Directions: • 1. Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 250°F. • 2. Whisk lime juice, chili powder, salt and cayenne in a large bowl.

• 3. Add peanuts; toss to coat. Divide between 2 large rimmed baking sheets; spread in an even layer.

• 4. Bake, stirring every 15 minutes, until dry, about 45 minutes. Let cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

IN addition to being every kid's (and many grownup kid's) favorite sandwich filling, peanuts pack a serious nutritional punch – ‘peanut punch’- and offer a variety of health benefits.

Peanuts are rich in energy and contain health benefiting nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins that are essential for optimum health.

They compose sufficient levels of mono-unsaturated fatty acids especially oleic acid. It helps to lower LDL or "bad cholesterol" and increases HDL or "good cholesterol” level in the blood.

These nuts are a good source of dietary protein compose fine quality amino acids that are essential for growth and development.

Research studies have shown that peanuts contain high concentrations of poly-phenolic antioxidants, primarily p-coumaric acid. This compound has been thought to reduce the risk of stomach cancer

by limiting the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in the stomach.

Peanuts are also an excellent source of vitamin E, which a powerful lipid soluble antioxidant which helps maintain the integrity of cell membrane of mucus membranes and skin by protecting from harmful oxygen free radicals.

They are packed with many important B-complex groups of vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates. 100 g of peanuts provide about 85% of RDI ofniacin, which contribute to brain health and blood flow to brain.

The nuts are rich source of minerals like copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.

Just a hand full of peanuts per day provides enough recommended levels of phenolic anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins, and protein.

to prevent falls in the elderly. Group exercise programs such as Pilates and Tai Chi were helpful.

Finally research has shown that by remaining actice throughout life improves your physical and mental capcity and delays the natural decline with age. This benefit is effective no mater when you start exercising.

So its never to late to get active and stay active.

February 16 - 22, 2013

Lifestyle...

GARDENING 

17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

How does your garden grow

YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Tamika graduated from Florida International University in Miami with a Masters degree in Dietetics & Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licensed to practice medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida.

Email Tamika via tcweeklynews@gmail.com or tamikahandfield@yahoo.com with your healthy eating questions.

Night Blooming Jasmine IF ever you’ve been fortunate enough to be able to inhale the scent night blooming jasmine plant, chances are that you’ll never forget the heady fragrance it put out, and even as you read about this plant you’ll remember the fragrance.

This odiferous plant is actually a shrub. Because it is originally from the West Indies, it grows great in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It is known as Queen of the Night in some tropical countries. Its heady fragrance can usually be smelled from as far as 300 yards away.

The Night blooming Jasmine Cestrum nocturnum, is a sprawly plant that features glossy, flat leaves that measure anywhere from four to eight inches long.

It has extensive vine-like stems that can form themselves into a mound that may measure 12 feet across, but that’s extremely rare given cultivation.

The blooms of the night blooming jasmine plant will happen sporadically in the warmest weather.

Look for its telltale greenish/white tubular flowers as they rise all along the stem from above the leaves.

When the flowers fall off it will leave fleshy berries that are colored in a shiny white color.

The night jasmine plant does best when planted in light sandy soil, will tolerate some shade, but it often does best when planted in full sun.

It grows best in average to moist soil, however care must be given to not allow it to become waterlogged.

You can easily start the plant from cuttings that will grow extremely fast.

Young night jasmine plants will require additional phosphorous in order to encourage its root development. When shopping for fertilizer, look for P on it, it’s usually

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 naturesplendor@yahoo.com

the second number to be found on the bag. Follow directions carefully.

It is a rather attractive plant, yet it’s unassuming. The flowers of the plant are not especially beautiful, nor showy as some flowers can be.

Mostly it’s the scent of the flowers that most people seek to have.

Folk tales have it that the plant was usually situated next to the outhouse in the “old” days, as the fragrance would even remain in the outhouse all day at times and thus it was one of the first bathroom deodorizers known. The night blooming jasmine plant loves acidic fertilizer.

It is suggested that you prune your

bush. This will remove any dead wood, and best yet opens the plant up so that the sun can reach all its parts.

Opening up the bush will also cause the plant to put out blooms as well. Also pruning a night blooming jasmine plant will enable the plant to have better air circulation which will discourage mildew and other plant diseases.

It is a plant that is often found in butterfly gardens, as it attracts many caterpillars that will eat the plant.

Beautiful attractive butterflies in the day, followed by a sweet perfume by night, the night blooming jasmine is a plant that many simply love!

Put a little love in your heart VALENTINE’S Day is such a “sweet” holiday; there seems to be chocolate everywhere—chocolate covered nuts, chocolate infused with gooey caramel and even chocolate covered fruits.

I mean, how can we resist all that chocolate? We eat all the chocolate and then what? We spend the rest of February feeling guilty and staring at the scale to see how much damage we have done.

Well, here is piece of good news: chocolate is good for you!

Research done shows that chocolate has heart protective benefits.

An article published by the Cleveland Clinic states that chocolate may help to lower blood pressure and prevent blood platelets from becoming sticky and less likely to clot among other things. One of the main reasons for this is the cocoa plant has phyto-nutrients (nonnutritive compounds in plants that offer health benefits) that exhibit antioxidant properties. Antioxidants protect the body from cancer causing agents. The specific class of phyto-nutrients in the cocoa plant that offer the health benefit is known as flavonoids. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the exact name of the flavonoid offering protective benefits is flavanol.

So, it’s ok to have some chocolate this Valentine’s day.

Now, before you run out and buy the nearest Snickers bar, it is important to know that not all chocolate is created equal. Only dark chocolate, not the heavily processed milk chocolate, offers any protection to the heart. Natural cocoa has a very strong almost bitter taste but the more it is processed into milk chocolate, the more it loses this taste which also means that more of the flavanols are lost.

If you are among the very small percentage of people who do not like or eat chocolate, you can still get the cardiovascular protection from other foods that are high in flavonoids such as apples, green tea, cranberries and red wine.

Practicing moderation is still key even when indulging in some healthy dark chocolate. Over indulging in dark chocolate covered nuts or other fat and sugar laden treats do not offer any benefit to your heart. Knowing that dark chocolate may help your heart is no excuse to go on a chocolate binge.

So this Valentine’s Day put a little love in your heart as you nibble on small pieces of dark chocolate every once in a while.

ACCU Medical Nutrition is based in Graceway IGA Plaza, Providenciales.

Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.

18 NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Provo International Airport now equipped with free internet THE Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA), in partnership with LIME, on Tuesday announced that domestic and international travellers would now be able to access internet services free of charge.

At a press conference at the airport, TCIAA’s CEO, John Smith, said: “On behalf of the Airport Authority, the board, the board of directors and the Ministry under which we fall, we are very appreciative of the collaborative effort we have with LIME.” General manger for LIME TCI, Drexwell Seymour, said: “We have a big partnership in the Airport Authority; we've seen the demands of customers coming here to have

internet service.”

According to him, there will be no internet congestion and everyone at the airport will be able to access the internet simultaneously.

Owner of Sea Feathers Villas, Sally Collier, said that she will be assisting in promoting the new initiative on her company’s web page.

She said: “This is a brilliant initiative, we have many tourists coming here every year and this is going to be absolutely wonderful.”

Providenciales International Airport is currently the only airport with the service, but partners noted that they will gradually work the new service around to the other islands.

(DAISY HANDFIELD)

From left, John Smith, head of sales department Dellerice Hall, Drexwell Seymour and terminal and marketing manager Lavern Reynolds.

LIME’s CEO steps down LIME, on Monday, announced that chief executive officer (CEO), David Shaw, is stepping down after four years leading the company.

Shaw, who has overseen the transformation of LIME, will remain with the business for the next six months to facilitate a smooth handover of responsibilities.

Tony Rice, chief executive of LIME’s parent company, Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC), will take over the leadership of the business, working with LIME’s regional business leadership team.

CWC recently announced its intention to focus its business on the Caribbean and Central American region, after agreeing to sell its Macau and Monaco and Islands operations.

Shaw thanked his colleagues in LIME for their support during his time running the business.

He said: “As a team, we have

David Shaw

achieved a great deal during the past four years.

“Our business is fighting back in Jamaica; in the Bahamas we are well positioned to face up to competition when it comes, and we are competing strongly in our other markets.

“The business is more focused than ever on delivering for our customers. Being a part of LIME has

LIME staff during a two-day training session

been an incredible experience and I look forward to seeing the business continue to fulfil its potential being the driving force in connecting the Caribbean.”

Rice paid tribute to Shaw and said: “David has managed our Caribbean business through a period of unparalleled and prolonged economic challenges for the region and difficult market conditions.

“During that period he has done a sterling job to strengthen our business and delivered critical transformational initiatives.

“Given the importance and challenges of the Caribbean market to CWC, I am taking direct leadership of the LIME business for a period of time to understand better and pursue the opportunities for investment which will improve the services we provide to customers as well as our cost efficiency and competitiveness.”

TCI top model hopefuls receive complimentary fitness training THE TCI Top Model hopefuls will begin complimentary fitness training classes from Rock It Hot Fitness on Monday (February 18).

Contestants will have 11 weeks of full access to the fitness studio.

Rock it Hot Fitness is a unisex group fitness and personal training lounge in the Regent Villages, Providenciales.

Managing director of the TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza, Courtney

Robinson, noted that the winner of the 2013 TCI Top model contest will receive a three-month membership to the studio to continue her fitness training.

Instructor and manager, Natasha Leybush, said: “The fitness centre offers a variety of traditional and signature fitness group classes, yoga and personal training, along with kickboxing body sculpting, stepping, the Brazilian Butt workout and hip hop dance classes.”

LIME partners with Ketter Group for staff training LIME, last week, partnered with The Ketter Group in a two-day

training session, aimed at continuing the company’s investment in its employees.

Staff members were reminded of some interesting tools that would assist in the competitive world in which the company operates.

They also received and participated in a different setting towards the goal of improving service and giving the best value for money to all stakeholders.

Drexwell Seymour, commenting on the training, said: “LIME knows that allowing employees to be a part of these sessions helps to keep us sharp.

“It also allows for open dialogue for new improvements.

“Mr. Ketter and Mr. Tickner offered invaluable guidance during the sessions and many staff members were able to share and gain knowledge.”

Employees agreed that the sessions were a great reminder of some things learned in the past and some spoke on learning something new from the sessions as well.

February 16 - 22, 2013

Entertainment

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Middleton pregnant bikini photos are ‘clear breach’ of privacy, says St. James’s Palace

Sir Paul McCartney won his 17th Grammy award.

Sir Paul McCartney surprised at 17th Grammy win

SIR Paul McCartney said he was “surprised” to win his 17th Grammy Award for his album Kisses on the Bottom, which was released last year.

“It came as a big shock to me to know there were 17 to tell you the truth,” he told BBC 6 Music.

“I don’t keep count, I suppose that’s somewhat flash - people know my figures better than I do.”

The best traditional pop vocal album Grammy was his first for a record of new material since his Beatles days.

He might have lost count of how many Grammys he has on the mantle-piece, but Sir Paul said

receiving praise from the American awards is always flattering.

“I don’t think a lot of the best musicians in the world got Grammys, it only goes to select few, and so to be one of those for the 17th time is phenomenal,” he said.

Sir Paul did not attend the awards ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday but watched it on television.

The musician said the moment he and his wife received news of the win via a text message from his manager was “particularly exciting”.

“We were watching it on telly, it was like ‘Oh yeah!’. You can imagine the room went wild,” he said. (BBC)

Matt Damon said that he would not go to the bathroom’ in an effort to draw attention to worldwide water crisis.

Damon passionate about worldwide water crisis MATT Damon is on an extended bathroom break.

“The Rainmaker” star declares he will not go No. 1 or 2 until everyone in this world has access to clean water and sanitation.

“In protest of this global tragedy, until this issue is resolved, until everybody has access to clean water and sanitation, I will not go to the bathroom,” the actor professed in a comedic video intended to shed light on the 2.5 billion people around the world who lack access to these essential elements.

In an effort to draw attention to

this serious issue, Damon approached it in a funny way, hoping the video will go viral and get a conversation started.

“Does anybody have any idea what invention has saved more lives than any other in the history of humankind?” the 42-year-old actor asked a room of “reporters,” “The toilet.”

Damon is the co-founder of Water. org, a nonprofit that has transformed hundreds of communities in Africa, South Asia, and Central America by providing access to safe water and sanitation.

THOUGH Kate Middleton and Prince William were hoping to get away from it all on their sunny vacation on the Caribbean isle of Mustique, problems with the press have followed them from the UK. St. James’s Palace is up in arms over bikini shots of the clearly pregnant Duchess of Cambridge, which it says are an intrusion on the royal couple’s privacy.

In a statement, the palace proclaimed that they were “disappointed” over the pictures.

“This is a clear breach of the couple’s right to privacy,” a representative said.

Another rep speaking to People Magazine described the violation as “grotesque” and “unjustifiable.”

“The incident is reminiscent of the worst excesses of the press and paparazzi during the life of Diana, princess of Wales, and all the more upsetting to The Duke and Duchess for being so,” the spokesman said.

The photographs are set to be released in Italian magazine Chi, which is owned by the same parent company as the publication which ran topless pictures of the 31-yearold Duchess Catherine sunbathing

Photos of the pregnant Kate Middleton should not be published the Palace have argued.

last year.

The news comes on the heels of another disappointing bit of press for Kate Middleton. The Duchess of Cambridge was omitted from BBC Radio 4’s list of the UK.’s most powerful women.

Other celebrities that got the BBC nod include Queen Elizabeth, Stella McCartney, J.K. Rowling, Victoria

Beckham, and singer Adele.

Journalist Eve Pollard, who helped put together the list, said that she knew leaving the expecting Duchess of Cambridge off the list would cause a stir.

“Is she influential? Hugely. Is she powerful? Not yet,” Pollard noted, justifying her position.

(NYdailynews.com)

Grammy success for Fun, Gotye and Mumford and Sons THE 55th Grammy Awards have taken place in Los Angeles, with Fun, Gotye and Mumford and Sons among the winners.

Fun’s anthem We Are Young, featuring Janelle Monae, was named song of the year, with the New York band going on to win the best new artist prize.

Gotye’s international hit Somebody That I Used To Know received the record of the year, one of three prizes received by the Belgian-Australian artist.

Surprised Mumford and Sons took home the album of the year prize for Babel.

The English folk rockers received their honour from fellowcountrywoman Adele, who had earlier won best pop solo performance for her live version of Set Fire to the Rain.

Adele, who won six awards last year, said: “I just wanted to be part of the night, because I loved it last year, obviously. Thank you, I just wanted to say a massive, send big love to all the other girls, and all us females doing this because we work so hard and we make it look so easy.”

Mumford and Sons had received six nominations ahead of the ceremony. In the event, though, their only other prize came for best long form music video.

Fun’s anthem We Are Young, featuring Janelle Monae was voted as song of the year.

Ben Lovett from the band said: “I just want to say how beautiful Adele is looking tonight, and how great it is to be presented this award by another British musician.

“Yeah, there’s a few of us out there, and the Grammys have opened their arms to us, and we’re very grateful for all of this country and the Grammy foundation for being so welcoming.”

Indie rock group The Black Keys enjoyed the most success overall, receiving four of the six awards for which they had been shortlisted. he event, held at Los Angeles’ Staples Center, kicked off with Taylor Swift singing her hit We Are

Never Ever Getting Back Together.

The 23-year-old star was joined by performers on stilts, a White Rabbit and human puppets for the Alice in Wonderland-themed performance.

Ed Sheeran and Sir Elton John appeared shortly afterwards to perform Sheeran’s single The A Team, with further performances coming from Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys and country star Carrie Underwood.

Sting, Bruno Mars and Rihanna joined forces for a Bob Marley tribute that featured Rihanna and Marley’s son Ziggy duetting on his father’s 1980 classic Could You Be Loved.

20

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

CARICOM should seek reparation for slavery - UWI principal PRINCIPAL of the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Sir Hilary Beckles, wants Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries to begin efforts aimed at seeking some form of reparation from Western countries for slavery.

Speaking at the first of a series of lectures to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the 1763 Berbice Slave Revolt, Sir Hilary said an ongoing discussion was needed to address the issue and called for an “informed and sensible conversation” on what has been described as the, “Worst Crime against humanity”.

The lecture titled, “Britain’s Black Debt: reparations owed the Caribbean for Slavery and Indigenous Genocide”, examined the damage done and wealth created through the slave trade particularly

by Britain. Sir Hilary said out that reparation is not about people

Tourism is a major part of the Jamaican economy.

Sir Hilary Beckles said that the CARICOM should seek some form of compensation for slavery.

getting handouts, but about repairing historical damage and how to find a way forward.

He said that while all races experienced some form of slavery, African slavery was unique in its

Venezuela devalues currency by 32% VENEZUELA has cut the value of its currency against the US dollar by 32%, in an effort to boost its economy.

The widely expected measure ramps up the official exchange rate of the bolivar from 4.3 to 6.3 per US dollar.

It was announced after VicePresident Nicolas Maduro’s return from Cuba, where he said President Hugo Chavez gave him instructions on the economy.

The leader has not been seen or heard in public since December, when he went to Havana for cancer treatment.

This is the fifth devaluation of the bolivar since Hugo Chavez’ administration started controlling

the exchange rate, in 2003.

The previous devaluation was in 2010.

Experts have long considered the bolivar overvalued and the move came as no surprise in the oil-based economy.

As oil exports are calculated in US dollars, a weaker bolivar should mean more cash for the government.

Strict controls to prevent currency going out of the country mean that dollars are normally hard to get in Venezuela, but in recent times this situation had become acute, says the BBC’s Sarah Grainger, in Caracas.

Dollars have been trading at four times the official rate on the black market.

scope and brutality. Comparative studies note that it was the only system of slavery in which people were viewed legally as property and seen as non- humans.

African slavery was also unique in that it reproduced itself, meaning the children of slaves were born as slaves, they had no rights, and females in particular were seen as the prefect property since their offspring would add their value.

Sir Hilary said landmark cases such as the 1781 Zong Massacre in which 350 slaves were thrown to sharks after the ship’s captain went off course, helped to shape the discussion on the legality of slavery.

He said the issue of slavery has in recent years been viewed as a crime against humanity and these types of crimes have attracted calls for reparation for victims, in various forms.

He cited the case of Haiti noting Western countries had no qualms about requesting and obtaining compensation. Haiti had to pay, from 1825 to 1922, 150 million gold francs to France after its slave population fought and successfully gained its freedom.

Sir Hilary argued that Haiti has never been able to recover from that payment, which was needed for it to gain international recognition.

UN urges against deportation of Haitians and Cubans The United Nations High Commission for Refugees is urging Caribbean countries such as the Cayman Islands, Jamaica and the Bahamas not to deport Haitian and Cuban refugees without proper screening. The agency has said it is concerned that people in need of international protection are being intercepted in Caribbean waters and being deported. In the first two months of 2013, there has been a dramatic rise in the number of boats transporting individuals in region and the UNHCR said governments should screen all individuals intercepted at sea to determine if they have a fear of persecution or

other protection concerns before they are returned to their countries of origin.

Since the beginning of the year, at least 217 Haitian and Cuban nationals have been intercepted in Caribbean waters, the UNHCR said in a press release. There have been interception reports off the coasts of Puerto Rico, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands.

“Elementary considerations of humanity and the fact that many countries in the region are granting asylum to Haitian and Cuban nationals when applying on land, demonstrates the absolute need for these basic procedural safeguards

to be applied at sea,” said Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR’s Regional Representative in Washington.

UNHCR has repeatedly urged all countries involved in interdiction and rescue at sea operations to put in place screening procedures to ensure protection for refugees and asylumseekers of all nationalities caught in mixed migration flows.

The agency stands ready to provide support to the states confronted by these maritime movements to ensure that all individuals intercepted or rescued at sea are properly screened in accordance with international human rights principles.

(Caymannewsservice.com)

Jamaica in crisis debt-swap plan JAMAICA has announced plans for its second debt swap in three years in the face of a “serious economic crisis”.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller is taking measures to reduce its debt, which currently stands at 140% of gross domestic product (GDP), one of the highest ratios in the world.

“If this debt is not reduced, Jamaica faces a dismal future,” she said.

The move is aimed at satisfying conditions demanded in a deal with the International Monetary Fund.

About 55% of government spending goes towards paying the nation’s debt, while 25% goes on wages. That leaves just 20% for everything else - including education, security and health.

‘SIGNIFICANT SACRIFICES’ In a televised address, Ms Simpson Miller, who belongs to the People’s National Party (PNP), said a national debt exchange would be launched.

The administration will offer a swap of higher-interest debt for lower-cost debt and will require “significant sacrifices” from financial institutions and domestic bond holders.

The move follows an earlier debt restructuring in 2010 under the previous Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) government.

Since many bondholders already took a hit in 2010, Finance Minister

Peter Phillips acknowledged that they were likely to be disappointed, but urged them to accept the offer.

He said it should reduce the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio by 8.5% a year until 2020.

TOURISM DOWNTURN Jamaica has been negotiating a loan with the IMF for the past year. As part of the agreement, the country must reduce debt, as well as the government wage bill.

This implies “significant austerity in the public sector” according to Laurence Allan, Latin American and Caribbean analyst at IHS Global Insight.

He says that “Simpson Miller faces a massive challenge” in getting the reforms through and that many “poor and ordinary Jamaicans view Jamaican elites as those who caused the debt problem and, conversely, who have suffered the least from its consequences”.

But he adds that “no Jamaican government in recent memory has enjoyed such favourable domestic political conditions”.

Jamaica is one of a number of Caribbean countries struggling with a growing debt burden amid falling tourism revenues.

Much of the region depends on tourists from Europe and the US for its income, but the global financial crisis has cut visitor numbers severely.

Chinese are key to Dominican Republic’s 10M-tourist goal PRESIDENT Danilo Medina on Tuesday took a major, if symbolic step toward his announced goal of 10 million tourists visiting Dominican Republic yearly, by welcoming in the National Palace, two Chinese families who chose to holiday in the country.

Tourism minister Francisco Javier Garcia said the visit is part of his department’s campaign to convert the Dominican Republic into one of the Chinese people’s favorite destinations.

He said Tourism promotes the

country in China, to capitalize from that country’s 80 million citizens who travel the world.

Among the visitors figured Yong Cai, CEO of the Chint Group, which Garcia defined as Chin’s biggest manufacturer of electrical products.

As part of the campaign, the official said, a tourism channel with an audience of 580 million will come to the country to produce an infomercial on the Dominican Republic, in addition to a fashion magazine which prints more than one million copies. (Dominica Today)

February 16 - 22, 2013

Regional News

FATCA pushes Cayman Islands to unveil financial secrets THE veil of secrecy over financial dealings of the wealthy in the Cayman Islands is lifting for the first time.

In a bid to give the Caribbean islands a makeover to attract foreign investment, the authorities are ready to open company and hedge fund registers to the public – and the names of their directors.

The government fears financial secrecy laws are tarnishing the image of the islands and are attracting accusations that companies based there evade tax and are involved in money laundering.

The move comes as the US with its FATCA act and the upcoming British law – known as ‘Son of FATCA’ – is about to be unveiled which will compel financial institutions in British dependencies and overseas territories like the Caymans to reveal details of which British taxpayers have accounts there.

It comes as other offshore centres have announced plans to unveil who is holding funds in their financial institutions, most notably the Isle of Man. COMPANIES AND HEDGE FUNDS EXPOSED Now, the Cayman Islands are the next to break with decades of banking secrecy by opening up a database of companies and hedge funds.

News of the move comes after The Financial Times claims to have seen a note sent to hedge fund businesses by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA).

There is a consultation period which ends in March, and among the

reforms is for directors to be vetted before taking up roles as agents for investors.

CIMA declined to comment on the proposals, but in one document outlined that several other offshore centres had updated their corporate governance laws and regulations since the financial crisis of 2008.

The Cayman Islands hit the headlines last year when it was revealed that US presidential candidate Mitt Romney held a large chunk of his wealth on the island but the secrecy laws prevented an investigation.

INTERNATIONAL PRESSURE This was the latest in a long line of international criticisms aimed at the island’s lack of transparency There was also an issue highlighted two years ago with revelations that some directors were sitting on the boards of hundreds of hedge funds – calling into question their abilities to oversee the companies concerned.

However, a spokesman for the Tax Justice Network (TJN) pointed out: “Among the proposals we see no sign that the Cayman Islands is planning to end its secrecy laws such as the Confidential Relationships (Preservation) Law, for instance.

“Pressure for the Cayman Islands to reform has been intense from media and governments but the tax haven has also been struggling with massive corruption scandals and its own financial problems.

“We need to see serious the proposals are but on the evidence so far, it does look promising.” (Iexpat. com)

Caribbean’s first sextuplets due next month A 28-year-old Central woman will create history in Trinidad and Tobago and the region when she delivers the Caribbean’s first sextuplets.

And, last week, another woman was admitted to Mt Hope Women’s Hospital with quadruplets.

The young woman who will deliver the six babies was all smiles at Mt Hope where, in a brief interview with the media, she said she was ready to bring her bundles of joy into this world.

It is her first pregnancy.

“I’m feeling very well considering the number (of babies),” said the mother who preferred not divulge her name to the media just yet.

She said she did not expect to be having six babies, but she and her family have already started looking at possible baby names.

Her husband, she said, was also very excited and her family was praying to ensure that there is smooth delivery.

Not only were the family anxious and overjoyed but the staff at the Mt Hope hospital are also enthusiastic

21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

to welcome the Caribbean’s first sextuplets.

Chairman of the North Central Regional Health Authority (NCWRHA) Dr Shehenaz Mohammed held a meeting with all senior staff members who have put plans in place for the birth of the babies.

The six babies will be delivered via Caesarean section on March 14.

Prof Bharath Bassaw, consultant, said the woman was being constantly monitored as there were risks associated with such pregnancies.

“It is the first case of sextuplets of a higher order pregnancy in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean… this is an uncommon condition, when this happens most of these pregnancies would end long before due to miscarriages, currently we are just under 27 weeks of gestation,” said Bassaw.

In this country, Bassaw said, the viability by law is at 28 weeks.

The patient, he said, was doing fine and resting comfortably.

(Trinidad Express)

Christie says: ‘Parliament a good idea - and a house for PM too’ PRIME Minister Perry Christie insisted that despite being faced with fiscal constraints, the government’s plans for a new Parliament complex and more benefits for MPs are good moves.

It is embarrassing, Mr Christie added, that the Bahamas might be the only country in the world that does not have a Prime Minister’s residence or a place to entertain international guests.

The Prime Minister assured Bahamians that the government will only act in the best interest of the country.

He was responding to claims that the government should be focused on more pressing issues, including unemployment and the national deficit.

Mr Christie said: “We are the only place in the world where there is no Prime Minister’s residence.

The fact that Mr Ingraham didn’t need one and I don’t need one, and Sir Lynden didn’t need one is not the question. We are the only one in this region if not the world without one.

“It is the most embarrassing

Prime Minister Perry Christie said that it is embarrassing that the Bahamas does not have a PM resident.

thing for a Prime Minister to have to borrow a suite from Sol Kerzner to entertain or go in a little room in a hotel when you have international guests to entertain.

“If we had a Prime Minister’s residence, I may elect not to live in it like other Prime Ministers do, but entertain in it.

“My goodness me, expect a

government to also look at all of the other aspects of the country and be able to instil pride in a country for its institutional growth. That’s what we are doing. We do not compromise on it. We are not going to relax on it. And it ought to have been done a long time ago.”

And when it comes to increasing the monthly allowances of MPs, Mr Christie said ministers, especially those who represent cays or constituencies with several islands, often have to use their own personal funds to fulfil obligations.

“It was never expected that only the rich could represent themselves in Parliament. These people who have a lot of cays (like the Exumas), MICAL or East Grand Bahama, they have to spend their own money.

“When you get $1,500 a month you can’t pay a secretary, or utilities with that.

“You have to be able to bring home to the Bahamian people that every other aspect of governance in our country is receiving attention and they must not neglect this thing of Parliament,” Mr Christie said.

(Tribune242.com)

Haiti: Did the U.S. Provide a “GreenLight” for Duvalier’s Return in 2011?

THOUSANDS of Haitians marched through Port-au-Prince on February 7 to protest President Michel Martelly’s patent corruption and drift toward a repressive neo-Duvalierist dictatorship.

At the same time, former President-for-Life Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier will be personally appearing in the capital’s Appeals Court to answer a challenge by his regime’s victims.

One year ago, Investigating Judge Carves Jean ruled that Duvalier should not be prosecuted for the many crimes against humanity committed under his 15-year rule from 1971 to 1986, including extrajudicial executions and jailings.

Human rights groups like Amnesty International and its Haitian counterparts cried foul, as did over a dozen of people who had filed human rights complaints against Duvalier following his return to Haiti in January 2011. They appealed the decision. Ironically, Judge Jean Joseph Lebrun, the head of the Appeals Court, set the hearing for final arguments against Judge Carves Jean’s ruling for the 27th anniversary of the Duvalier regime’s fall.

Feb. 7, 1986 was the day when, after a three-month nationwide uprising against his regime, the playboy dictator and his haughty bourgeois wife, Michelle, drove their Mercedes-Benz through a cordon of journalists at the airport to board a

Michel Martelly and Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier

U.S.-provided C-130 cargo jet that flew them, with her furs and his cars, into a golden exile in France.

The Duvaliers divorced but lived the good life off the some $800 million (according to best estimates) that they and their cronies embezzled from the Haitian treasury.

In fact, Judge Carves Jean did charge Duvalier for his “economic crimes,” but the maximum sentence if he were ever found guilty (an unlikely event under Martelly’s regime) would be only five years.

Duvalier returned to Haiti on Jan. 16, 2011 thanks to a Haitian diplomatic passport furnished to him five years earlier by one of his former Haitian Army generals, Hérard Abraham. The former general, whom President Jean-Bertrand Aristide fired in 1991, had been resurrected 13 years later as the Foreign Affairs Minister under the de facto regime of Prime Minister Gérard Latortue, installed by Washington following

the Feb. 29, 2004 coup d’état against Aristide.

U.S. State Department cables provided to Haïti Liberté by the media organization WikiLeaks in 2011 reveal that the U.S. Embassy was very “concerned” about Duvalier’s return to Haiti in early 2006, when the de facto regime was about to hold presidential elections on Feb. 7, 2006.

In Santiago, Chile, for example, U.S. Ambassador Craig Kelly “expressed [U.S.] concerns about the Interim Government of Haiti’s (IGOH) decision to approve the issuance of a diplomatic passport for former president and dictator JeanClaude ‘Baby Doc’ Duvalier,” Kelly wrote in a Jan. 11, 2006 Confidential cable. He asked the Chilean government “to approach the IGOH to make clear that Duvalier’s return would undermine efforts to assist Haiti in its transition to a stable, democratic society.”

22 NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TCHTA gears up for Star Awards THE Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s (TCHTA) fifth annual Star Awards promises to be a glitzy affair, recognising and

celebrating the “shining stars” in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Scheduled for February 28, the event will be hosted under

the stars at the croquet lawn of the luxurious Regent Palms.

President of the TCHTA Karen Whitt, reminiscing on the concept and the past five

years, expressed how pleased she was with the spectacle that the event has become.

She said: “Here in the Turks and Caicos we have so many shining stars in the hotel and tourism industry … the awards are very beneficial to what we do as we continually strive to be the best in the Caribbean.

“It’s all about customer service and showcasing our individual talents.”

Whitt said that nominations in 15 different categories are now being submitted from their 200 members.

Categories range from employee of the year, hotelier of the year, manager of the year and even some outside categories like entertainer of the year and taxi driver of the year.

“We’re really reaching out and trying to acknowledge all of the persons in the industry who play such an important role,” said Whitt.

She explained that once nominated, half of the nominations are voted on by an independent panel of judges - people selected because of their standing and understanding of the industry,

Announcing plans for the 5th Star Awards: Executive of the TCHTA Stacy Cox flanked by President of the TCHTA Karen Whitt, The Sands GM Mona Beeson and Regent Palm’s Exucutive HR Manager Yadviga Dzieduszynska

and the other half are voted on by the members.

Winners are kept top secret and not announced until the night of the event.

Members of the public can join in the celebration by purchasing a ticket for $75 from the TCHTA and are also invited to attend the after party at Yoshi’s sushi bar.

Association executive of the TCHTA Stacy Cox encouraged the public to join

them on Facebook or Twitter for an opportunity to win a ticket to the event.

Cox acknowledged the support of the business community and said: “The Star Awards is where we recognise extraordinary talent and individuals in the hospitality industry who have given so much to the industry in building what we consider to be our number one industry.” (KH)

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

Contestants vying for Miss TCI meet and greet the public

By Daisy Handfield SIX beautiful women will vie for the coveted title of Miss Turks and Caicos Universe 2013.

Vanessa Hall, Tymant Dean, Cortrina Cooper, Snwazna Adams, Crystal Coleby and Frenica Williams were introduced to the public on Monday at Beaches Resorts and Spa, during a meet and greet.

Beaches Resort Villages and Spa joined the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board and Saint George Fashion House (SGFH) as headline sponsors of this year’s pageant.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, was on hand for the meet and greet, and noted that he was impressed with the corporate support, as well as the contestants and their presentations.

He said: “I feel excited. I am very confident about the young people

that are behind the Miss Turks and Caicos Beauty Pageant.

“This is a group of talented and passionate young individuals who I know will operate this organisation to the highest possible level.

“The girls who were unveiled today are high quality and I just wish them well and hopefully when we get the winner, she can be the one to go out there and promote the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

President and managing director for Miss TCI and principal designer for SGFH, Kazz Forbes, noted that he was proud to be given the opportunity to organise the beauty pageant this year.

Forbes said: “Today we begin a new era of pageantry in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“We welcome the business community to partner with us, the government to generously support

us, and the public to cheer each of these beautiful young ladies as they stand at the threshold of a new chapter in their lives.”

The Turks and Caicos Tourist Board’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), David Fennimore, said: “Through this pageant, it’s going to be so wonderful for promoting the destination to the world.

“We look forward to the natural beauty that comes out of this; we look forward to the unveiling of the natural beauty that’s going to represent our beautiful by nature destination to the world.”

Up until the night of the pageant, in April, the girls will attend workshops on health, skincare and self-esteem.

They will also participate in workout and fitness routines.

There will be training sessions twice per week, for a minimum of three hours, until the week before coronation night.

The competing contestants for the 2013 Miss TCI Competition

This year, the Miss Turks and Caicos Universe Beauty Organisation facilitated an online voting ballot for the public to cast its vote for its favourite 2013 Miss Turks and Caicos Universe Contestant.

The results will be announced on coronation night.

Other than awards and prizes, the Miss Turks and Caicos Universe 2013 titleholder will represent several major organisations, such as RAPPORT and act as a good will ambassador and spokesperson for the Turks and Caicos AIDS Awareness Foundation.

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 25

Spotlight on Salt Cay

The importance of Dean’s Dock

By Candy Herwin

ON MANY occasions I have spoken of the historical importance of Dean’s Dock in relation to the salt trade and the indispensable role this small harbour played in the lives of the Salt Cay community.

Today, Dean’s Dock remains a vital part in the lifestyle of the residents of Salt Cay. During the salt raking era the harbour was the focal point for the islanders, busy with shipments of salt, incoming cargo boats and native sloops carrying fish, conch, blades, coal and other trading commodities.

Many boats swayed in the harbour. Boys would be fishing on the seawall and on the bluff could be seen the lighthouse manned by Albert Williams or old man ‘Al Boner’ as he was called.

It is believed that Dean’s Dock was built in 1790 or soon after by the British Navy to salvage the cargo and hardware from the British 44-gun ship named HMS Endymion which

struck an unchartered reef as she approached the southern entrance to the Turks Island Pass.

Luckily for Captain LT. Daniel Woodriff he survived to tell the story.

James Deane of Salt Cay, passing in a sloop saw the gun boats predicament as she submerged on the coral pinnacle and with help from other seamen with various sloops in the vicinity rescued the captain and his crew.

The new dock needless to say was named after James Deane, the hero of the day.

Strangely enough nearly 224 years later from this very same Dean’s Dock, adventurous holidaymakers now motor out to the HMS Endymion to dive this fascinating and colourful wreck, which was recently nominated one of the best wreck dives in the world.

The importance of Dean’s Dock remains constant and has witnessed the transition from a salt producing economy to one that relies solely on tourism.

A section of the dock today

Everyone on Salt Cay will tell you that the lifeline of the community is our passenger and cargo boat that runs efficiently three times a week.

“Thank God for the cargo boat,” said one resident, “she brings in every essential item that one needs to survive on this island and it’s our reliable passenger service to Grand Turk where we can connect with grocery stores, hospital, pharmacy, work and schools.”

The outer breakwater sea wall of Dean’s Dock was in fact repaired in 2010, but recently part of the embarkation dock wall has collapsed and is held together with fish net.

‘This is a huge concern,” said acting District Commissioner Mr. Noyal Hamilton, “we have submitted a project to government to repair and secure the shoreline wall which at present has collapsed in certain sections.

“We certainly hope that this will be considered as a priority and that the repairs can be accomplished before the start of the hurricane season.”

One last wish concerning the dock in Grand Turk is that the rusty, vertical old ladder can be replaced and a platform built that will enable our senior citizens and indeed everyone to climb on and off the boats in a safe and secure manner.

Hope springs eternal

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

Table prepared with snacks

Bank rewards customers on Valentine’s Day FIRST Caribbean International Bank (FCIB) expressed their love for their customers on Valentine’s Day by hosting a customers’ appreciation day at the main branch in Providenciales.

Yesterday (Thursday, February 14) persons who made purchases with their FCIB credit cards were rewarded double bonus points.

And customers who applied for a FCIB credit card were rewarded 500 extra points.

As persons walked in, they were greeted by soothing music and

complimentary snacks.

District manager for retail and small business, Joy Callender, said: “As you know, today is Valentine’s Day; a day of love and First Caribbean International Bank is giving back to our customers, the spirit of love.

“We want to satisfy our customers more and ensure that all of our products are available to them.

“This is a way of saying thank you for banking with us and we look forward to your continuous support in 2013 and so on.”

Chamber of Commerce opens new office THE Providenciales Chamber of Commerce opened a new, more centrally located office space at the Graceway Plaza on Monday.

The opening featured a display of work from the students of Young Enterprise, which demonstrated the programme’s impact on their leadership skills.

Young Enterprise is a programme sponsored by the Chamber, in collaboration with TCIG’s Youth Department.

President of the Chamber, Tina Fenimore said: “The Chamber cannot ignore the growing energy which is naturally taking place amongst business owners in Providenciales

and the Turks and Caicos on a whole.

“There are a lot of issues which are critically important to us and we must insure the business community knows that the Chamber is serious about partnering for the benefits of us all.

“This open house gives us a strong presence and it gives members and those that want to become members a chance to mingle.”

Fenimore emphasised that the Chamber of Commerce will be pushing to obtain more members and to encourage business people to recognise that their input at the table is essential to ensuring a sustainable economy. (DAISY HANDFIELD)

Brazil’s Carnival continues to captivate millions.

Brazil’s Carnival reaches its crescendo Rio’s Carnival festivities reached their crescendo late Monday with a final night of samba school parades, part of a contest appropriately dubbed the greatest show on earth.

The top dance schools showcased elaborate floats decked with scantilyclad beauty queens writhing to the beat of samba music blasted from

giant speakers on flatbed trucks.

The showdown at the city’s Sambodrome was to compete for the coveted title of Carnival champion, and the 72,500 spectators that managed to get a ticket for the event cheered their favorite schools with the same passion reserved for soccer in this football-mad country.

February 16 - 22, 2013

NEWS 27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

More than 500 persons flock Brayton Hall to hear the survivor’s story. In front row, left of Rena Finder is Governor Todd, Premier Rufus Ewing and Deputy Premier Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

Holocaust survivor Rena Finder shares her story of hope, courage and determination

Holocaust survivor delivers touching story PROVO’s Jewish Community gave Turks and Caicos residents a rare opportunity; to witness a first-hand account of one of history’s most unimaginably tragic events - the holocaust.

Rena Finder, one of the last few remaining Holocaust survivors shared her inspiring story of hope, fear, strength and the will to survive last Wednesday and Thursday at Brayton Hall.

In the two days she not only told of the atrocities she experienced but encouraged individuals to make a difference in the world; to be “upstanders” not “bystanders”.

On day one more than 200 high school students attended and on day two more than 500 persons including the Governor, the Premier, Ministers, members of the business community and the public were all enthralled by the power, agony and moments of hope that she so vividly spoke of.

Finder’s story of the horrors of her childhood in the Krakow Ghetto, losing her loved ones and the inhumane experiences they suffered at the concentration camps moved the audience tremendously - many to tears.

She told of the cruelty and death surrounding them and of the German “angel” Oskar Schindler who heroically used his influence to save the lives of 1,300 Jewish people.

A captivating clip from Steven Spielberg’s award winning film Schindler’s List further mesmerised the audience with distressingly graphical scenes of the brutality people suffered at the hands of the Nazi Party.

While Finder said she could “not imagine there could be so much cruelty and hate and sadistic pleasure in killing” and cannot forget the

"We need to learn how to look at each other with respect …we all are created equal … we need to learn to not look at the colour of another person or their religion" – Rena Finder painful experiences, she does not spread hate.

She said: “We need to learn how to look at each other with respect … we all are created equal …we need to learn to not look at the colour of another person or their religion.”

She added: “We should teach our children that they have the power to make a difference …if we don’t then none of us would have learnt a lesson or taught a lesson to the next generation.”

In her years as a prisoner and a slave she lost most of her family and friends but she said what helped her most was that she had her mother.

“I find that people who had somebody survived and people who had nobody gave up and I had my mother to live for and she lived for me.”

When asked if she hates the Germans now and if she has forgiven them she said: “I still hate and will never forget those men who murdered my family and my people but I have no bad feelings for their children and grandchildren.

“Children are not responsible for the sins of their fathers and grandfathers…we hope in the future there will be no more victims and victimisers and no more bystanders.”

Finder, a holocaust educator

Governor Todd listens solemnly to Holocaust survivor Rena Finder

and a speaker against genocide and human rights violation, seeks to inspire and encourage her audience to learn from the past and not allow injustice, not to be indifferent to other people’s suffering but to intervene because one person can make a difference.

In the holocaust which lasted from 1933 to 1945, when the war ended in Europe, six million Jews were deliberately and systematically murdered in an attempt to wipe out the entire population.

Approximately five million other people including homosexuals, gypsies and the disabled were also murdered under Adolf Hitler’s leadership.

Even though it has been 68 years since that war ended, unimaginable hate and prejudice still live in some people.

Guest speaker Ariel Misick pointed out that the world today is still far from perfect and even though there have been great strides in human rights we are reminded of the fact that people are still being oppressed.

He reminded us that there are people still being slaughtered and treated like they are less human because of their ethnicity or religion.

The lesson to be learnt from Finder’s story, he pointed out, is not to be silent, not to turn our heads and ignore the suffering of others.

He said, “When we see abuse whether of the extreme kind or of any kind, we owe it to ourselves, we owe it to our fellow man, we owe it to our country and to the rest of the world to speak up.”

Rabbi Shalom Bluming from the

Provo Jewish community, pleased to share such a significant and rare part of history with the island, said “Rena's talk reminded us that we as good people must stand up to indifference and not allow injustice to happen around us.”

Jewish community member Sandy Freedhoff Maran said that it is important to remember the terrible event because “it teaches us why the fight for justice is so important, it is uplifting to see a person who has lived through the darkest time … to still have love in her heart …and offer hope to others.”

Further details of Rena Finder’s life story and day one’s event can be found in last week’s edition of the Turks and Caicos Weekly News or online at www.tcweeklynews.com.

(KH)

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World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Pope Benedict XVI says he is resigning ‘for the good of the church’ A WEARY Pope Benedict, just two days after announcing his resignation, spoke softly while asking the faithful for their continued prayers on his final Ash Wednesday in Vatican City.

With a serene look on his pale face, the Pope received a standing ovation from the crowd while explaining his stunning decision to step down.

“I did this in full liberty for the good of the church,” said the 85-year-old Benedict — the first pontiff to retire in nearly 600 years.

“Continue to pray for me, for the church and for the future Pope.”

Benedict, speaking in Italian, told the crowd at his weekly catechism lesson that he no longer had the strength to continue in his demanding position.

He said the same thing to the church’s cardinals two days earlier.

But Benedict added that the prayers and love offered up by Catholics in the last two days boosted his spirit and his body, saying the good will was “physically felt in these days that haven’t been easy for me.”

The German-born Pope assumed his holy duties on April 19, 2005.

The Pope’s voice remained soft and low as he spoke, with many in the audience of 8,000 reduced to

Pope Benedict XVI is the first pontiff to retire in nearly 600 years

tears by his emotional appearance.

Benedict’s last day as pontiff is Feb. 28.

The back of the room was covered with a huge banner declaring “Grazie Santita” — “Thank you, your holiness.”

There was a twinkle in Benedict’s eye as a chorus of Italian schoolkids sang one of his favorite hymns in German. The Pope delivered a personal thank you to the youngsters.

His address was interrupted several times by the enthusiastic crowd during the extraordinarily rare

papal farewell appearance.

“We were just coming for vacation and now we are getting all of this!” said Terry Rodger, a visitor from New Orleans. “I am very excited.

I’m surprised.”

Church officials revealed some details of Benedict’s final day as Pope, when he will attend a morning ceremony with the cardinals before leaving via helicopter for the papal retreat at Castel Gandolfo.

His reign will officially end at 8 p.m. that day. (NYdailynews)

Coca-Cola drinking ‘linked to New Zealander’s death’ DRINKING large quantities of Coca-Cola was a “substantial factor” in the death of a 30-year-old woman in New Zealand, a coroner has said.

Natasha Harris, who died three years ago after a cardiac arrest, drank up to 10 litres of the fizzy drink each day.

This is twice the recommended safe limit of caffeine and more than 11 times the recommended sugar intake.

Coca-Cola had argued that it could not be proved its product had contributed to Ms Harris’ death.

The coroner’s verdict came on the day Coca-Cola Sales said sales in Europe and China fell in the last quarter of 2012, and warned of a “volatile” year to come.

‘CLEAR WARNINGS’ NEEDED Natasha Harris, a mother of eight from the southern New Zealand city of Invercargill, suffered from ill health for years before her death.

Her family said she had developed an addiction to Coca-Cola and would get withdrawal symptoms, including “the shakes”, if she went without her favourite drink. “(She would) go crazy if she ran out... she would get the shakes, withdrawal symptoms, be angry,

February 16 - 22, 2013

UN condemns North Korea nuclear test THE UN Security Council has promised action against North Korea over its third nuclear test, calling it a clear threat to international security.

At an emergency meeting, the UN said it would begin work on measures to halt the North’s nuclear ambitions.

The US called the test highly provocative, while China, Pyongyang’s sole key ally, said it was strongly dissatisfied.

Monitors said the test appeared twice as big as the previous test in 2009.

The test took place at the Punggye-ri site in the north-east of the country on Tuesday morning.

A powerful underground explosion was detected at 11:57 (02:57 GMT), followed three hours later by confirmation from North Korea that a test had taken place.

State-run KCNA news agency said the test was “carried out at a high level in a safe and perfect manner using a miniaturised and lighter nuclear device with greater explosive force than previously”.

North Korea said it was a response to the “reckless hostility of the United States”.

Nuclear test monitors in Vienna say the underground explosion had double the force of the last test, in 2009, despite the use of a device said by the North to be smaller.

If a smaller device was indeed tested, analysts said this could take Pyongyang closer to building a warhead small enough to arm a

missile.

The UN Security Council met in an emergency session hours after the test. Members unanimously backed a statement calling the North in “grave violation” of UN resolutions.

“In line with this commitment and the gravity of this violation, the members of the Security Council will begin work immediately on appropriate measures in a Security Council resolution,’’ the council said.

US President Barack Obama and outgoing South Korea President Lee Myung-bak also held telephone talks, pledging to “seek a range of measures aimed at impeding North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and reducing the risk of proliferation”, a White House statement said.

Outgoing Pentagon chief Leon Panetta called North Korean military ambitions a “serious threat” that America had to be prepared to “deal with”.

China’s Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, meanwhile, summoned North Korea’s ambassador in Beijing to express “firm opposition” to the test, the foreign ministry said.

But in a statement issued late on Tuesday, North Korea appeared far from cowed, promising “second and third tougher measures” if the US did not “admit its mistake and correct it”.

CBI: UK to avoid triple-dip recession The coroner called on soft drinks firms to carry more warnings about the risks of sugar and caffeine.

on edge and snappy,” her motherin-law Vivien Hodgkinson told the coroner’s inquest last year.

Ms Harris drank Coke throughout her waking hours and her teeth had been removed because of decay.

Coroner David Crerar said her Coca-Cola consumption had given rise to cardiac arrhythmia, a condition when the heart beats too fast or too slow.

“I find that when all the available evidence is considered, were it not for the consumption of very large quantities of Coke by Natasha Harris, it is unlikely that she would

have died when she died and how she died,” Mr Crerar’s finding said.

The coroner calculated that drinking 10 litres (17.5 pints) of Coke amounted to more than 1kg (2.2lb) of sugar and 970mg of caffeine, Television New Zealand (TVNZ) reports.

Mr Crerar said that Coca-Cola could not be held responsible for the health of consumers who drank excessive quantities of its product.

But he called on soft drinks companies to display clearer warnings on their beverages about the risks of too much sugar and caffeine.

THE UK will avoid falling into a socalled triple-dip recession, according to the business lobby group, the CBI. The group believes that the UK economy will grow 0.3% in the first quarter of the year.

That comes after the economy shrunk in the last quarter - the first period in what some feared might be another six months of negative growth.

But the CBI now expects the UK to grow 1% in 2013 - less than the 1.4% it previously expected.

“We are beginning to see the return of organic growth, with clear signs that firms offering the right products into the right markets are growing sales and expanding,” said CBI director-general John Cridland.

“Recent business surveys also give grounds for cautious optimism about our forward prospects.”

But he warned that “after the uncertainties of 2012, the fear of

external storm clouds lingers”, referring to the eurozone debt crisis and weak global growth.

The business group said that inflation will likely climb during the year but it does not expect a further round of quantitative easing.

The Bank of England has so far pumped £375bn into the financial system, creating money through “asset purchases” of buying government bonds.

Earlier this month, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said the Bank should consider injecting more money into the economy if growth remains weak.

The UK economy bounced back to growth in the third quarter of last year, boosted by the Olympics, after shrinking for the previous nine months. Prior to that, the UK was in recession at the height of the financial crisis in 2008.

February 16 - 22, 2013

World News

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Why the next pope should be African

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said a free-trade deal would be ‘ground-breaking’.

EU and US free-trade talks launched THE European Union and the US will begin formal talks on a freetrade agreement, paving the way for the biggest trade deal in history.

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso made the announcement following President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address.

A deal would bring down trading barriers between the two biggest economies in the world.

EU-US trade is worth around 455bn Euros (£393bn; $613bn) a year.

“A future deal between the world’s two most important economic powers will be a gamechanger, giving a strong boost to our economies on both sides of the

Atlantic,” said Mr Barroso, speaking in Brussels.

The EU estimates that a “comprehensive and ambitious agreement” will boost annual GDP growth by 0.5%.

Mr Obama announced US support for talks as part of his annual address to the US Congress on Tuesday, saying a free-trade deal would “boost American exports, support American jobs and level the playing field in the growing markets of Asia”.

It is not clear how long the talks will take, but similar trade deals have involved years of negotiations, and the BBC’s Gavin Hewitt in Brussels says the most optimistic timeframe given by European officials is two years. (BBC)

Indian Festival Stampede: Dozens Killed AT least 36 people, mostly women, have been killed in a stampede at a railway station near India’s Kumbh Mela festival.

Amit Malviya, a spokesman for the northern and central railway, confirmed that 20 bodies had been identified, with authorities waiting for relatives to come forward to claim 16 others.

Of those identified, 14 are female and six are men, with the youngest victim being an eight-year-old girl.

The oldest victim was a 75-year-old man.

“Twenty persons have been identified (and) we are trying to ascertain the identities of the remaining persons,” he said.

Dozens more were injured in the stampede.

The stampede occurred at Allahabad station when pilgrims were heading home from the most auspicious day of the Kumbh Mela, which drew 30 million people to the banks of the River Ganges.

Hindus believe a swim in the sacred waters of the river cleanses them of their sins. (Sky.com)

Four-year-old girl in North Carolina accidentally shoots herself A 4-YEAR-old girl in North Carolina accidentally shot herself in the leg after she wandered into her mother’s bedroom, found a gun and began to play with it.

The little girl, whose name has not been released because of her age, sustained non-lifethreatening injuries and was recovering at home Tuesday after a brief hospitalization, Charlotte police said.

Authorities have not disclosed exactly how the little girl was shot, WBTV reported.

Marsharier Littlejohn, the tot’s 36-year-old mother, was charged Tuesday with failing to secure a firearm.

Police are still searching for the woman’s boyfriend, 30-year-old Leandre Budden, who they also plan to charge with failing to secure a firearm. (NYdailynews.com)

CARDINAL John Onaiyekan of Abuja, Nigeria, was asked last week at the celebration of Black History Month in Toronto if he thought that the time was ripe for an African pope. His answer attracted much cheering from the crowd of over 500 Catholics of African descent.

He said: “The time for an African pope was ripe even in the time of the Apostolic Fathers in the first century of the church.

“I am not saying that I wish to be considered for the papacy, but the fact that the Gospel is to be preached to all peoples, languages, and races means that the highest leadership of the church should be open to anyone from any race, language and nation.

I will not be surprised to see an African pope in my lifetime.”

None of us who listened to him expected that a week later, the prospect of an African pope will be put to the test in the next conclave in March as a result of the sudden resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. For many Catholics, where a pope comes from may not be as important as who the pope is, but for most African Catholics the election of an African pope will be a wonderful sign that African Catholicism has come of age, and they hope that such a pope will address squarely the particular challenges facing Africans today and integrate African culture and socio-economic priorities into mainstream Catholicism.

Within the last three decades there has been a shift in global Catholicism. The center of gravity in World Christianity has moved from

Nigerian Cardinal John Onaiyekan has said he would not be surprised to see an African pope in his lifetime.

the West to the global South.

This is not only with regard to African Catholicism but to African Christianity in general. British Missiologist Andrew Walls argues: “African Christianity must be seen as a major component of contemporary representative Christianity, the standard Christianity of the present age, a demonstration model of its character. That is, we need to look at Africa today, in order to understand Christianity itself.”

This is a view shared by many who watch the exponential growth and diversity of African Christianity at a time when Catholicism is dying in the heartland of Europe, weakened by sexual abuse, a crisis of leadership, and a crisis of faith and secularism.

According to recent figures, 70% of Catholics now live in either in the Americas (48%) or in Europe (24%) and more than a quarter live either in the Asia-Pacific region (12%) or in Sub-Saharan Africa (16%).

For the first time in history, Latin America and Africa provide more than half of the population of Catholics in the world today.

At a time when the pews and churches of Europe and North America are empty and many dioceses are declaring bankruptcy, the churches in Africa are filled beyond capacity every Sunday.

At a time when European church celebrations are seen to be too formal, too medieval and ritualistic, and lacking in joy and flavor, church celebrations in Africa are very enthusiastic, celebratory, communal and joyful.

There is always something new and surprising in many African churches on Sunday, reflecting the unpredictable innovation and openness of African religious beliefs and practices to the dynamist of the Holy Spirit. As one White Canadian who attended our African Mass in Toronto told me recently: African Catholicism rocks!

EU ministers hold crisis talks over horse meat scandal AS a scandal over the discovery of horse meat in products labeled as beef widens, European ministers are meeting for talks in Belgium on Wednesday on how to restore badly dented consumer confidence.

EU Health Commissioner Tonio Borg said he was following the situation “very closely.”

The European Commission is working with the French, Romanian, Dutch, Luxembourg and British authorities and has called an emergency meeting on the issue of food chains for Friday, Borg said in a statement.

“The EU food safety system is one of the safest in the world,” he said, pointing to its rules on traceability.

“I hope that the national investigations will uncover soon the culprits.”

The talks in Brussels, Belgium, come a day after UK police and health officials raided a slaughterhouse and meat company as part of the ongoing investigation into how horse meat ended up in purported beef products.

The slaughterhouse, in Todmorden, West Yorkshire, is believed to have supplied horse carcasses to a Welsh firm called Farmbox Meats Ltd., which then sold the meat as beef for kebabs and burgers.

Authorities have suspended operations at both facilities and seized all remaining meat and company files, which include a client list. Neither company was immediately available for comment.

“I ordered an audit of all horseproducing abattoirs in the UK after this issue first arose last month and I was shocked to uncover what appears to be a blatant misleading of consumers,” Andrew Rhodes, Food Standards Agency director of operations, said Tuesday.

Environment Secretary Owen Paterson called the revelations “absolutely shocking.”

“It’s totally unacceptable if any business in the UK is defrauding the public by passing off horse meat as beef,” he said. “I expect the full force of the law to be brought down

on anyone involved in this kind of activity.”

In a written statement to parliament Wednesday, Paterson said both the businesses raided had a legitimate trade in horse meat, “but investigations so far indicate that horse meat has been used in UK produce as though it is beef.”

Horse meat was discovered in products that are supposed to be 100% beef sold in Sweden, the United Kingdom and France.

They included lasagna sold by frozen food giant Findus and spaghetti bolognese sold by UK supermarket giant Tesco, both made

by French supplier Comigel.

While authorities said there is no immediate cause for health concerns, the discovery was a new shock to an industry already reeling from a bombshell last month, when Irish investigators found horse and pig DNA in numerous hamburger products.

Investigations are under way in France, Sweden and Britain. (CNN)

30

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brama Kumaris

FOR RENT

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

contact: 946-4664

February 16 - 22, 2013

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

WILBUR CALEY

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101 www.bkwsu.com Email: bkwsu@tciway.tc

FOR SALE

Is looking for a

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

Contact: 343-5528

7775

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

CLASSIFIEDS 31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SYNARA BLACK Is looking for a

Kenesha’s Bakery & Restaurant Is looking for a

FOR RENT 1 BEDROOM 1 BATH RICHMOND HILLS FULLY FURNISHED WASHER & DRYER $750.00 PER MONTH

3 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM

Hairstylist To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 242-5098

7786

TDMG CONCORDIA is looking for

FULLY FURNISHED WASHER DRYER 1,200.00 PER MONTH SECURITY SYSTEM FOR SALE OR FOR RENT

CUSTOM DESIGN KITCHEN $800.00 PER MONTH

2 BEDROOM 1 BATH NEWLY RENOVATED $900.00 PER MONTH

CONTACT: 231-3788

Project Manager

Labourer

Must have at least 5 years experience Salary is negotiable Belonger only need apply Application deadline is February 21st, 2013.

Fax: 649-941-3446

PRICE SLASHED

Acting on behalf of our clients: Menard Supermarket, L.P.S. Wholesale Retail, Olwick Neat, North Side City Market, George Solon, Aulden Smith, Jean Shop, Southern Eastern Electric, RT Business Services, Holton Williams, Claudy Variety Shop, Innovative Concrete is looking to fill the following positions:

2 Storekeepers 2 Shop Attendants

Baker To work 6 days per week.

Salary $8.00 per hour.

Contact: 232-5538

Must have strong knowledge of the Creole language (as the store caters mostly to the Haitian Community)

4 laborers 3 Domestic Workers Submit resumes to rtagency@live.com for consideration

Amazing Value!

7770

Lot for Sale

7732

1 BEDROOM 1 BATHROOM HOUSE

RT BUSINESS SERVICES

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o.

Call 231-3788

FOR QUICK SALE PRICE SLASHED $180,000 CASH! House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

$175,000

7769

February 16 - 22, 2013

To work 6 days per week salary $200 per week.

Contact: 244-0469

Exciting new marina facility looking for dock attendant to carry out marina operations. Excellent customer service skills in a similar role is essential. Attention to detail and time management skills are also essential. Experience in the hotel and tourism industry as well as experience with dealing with fuel oils would be an advantage.

Exciting new marina facility looking for an experienced office administrator.

Advanced computer literacy is essential with accounting and HR experience. Accuracy and time management skills also essential.

Knowledge of IQ Ware an advantage.

To apply, send your resume with cover letter to: careers@bluehaventci.com and place “Marina” as the subject. Applications close EOD on 22nd Feb 2013.

Exciting new marina facility looking for experienced front desk agents to cater for the tourist market in guest services.

Advanced computer literacy in Microsoft and excellent customer service skills are essential. Other language skills and knowledge of IQ Ware an advantage.

CARIBBEAN BEER & SPIRIT Is seeking to employ a

Labourer Must be willing to work 6 days per week. Must be trustworthy and reliable.

Hours are 8:00am-4:00pm.

Salary $5.00 per hour

Email: discount@tciway.tc or Fax: 649-946-4871

7789

Gaming Company seeks Slot Technician. Must have a minimum of five years experience in a casino environment working on Pot-o-Gold, Cadillac Jack, BetStone and other digital equipment. Must be willing to work any shift, holiday's and weekends.

Please contact Donna at Caicos Adventures: 941-3346 for interview All applications must be submitted by February 22nd, 2013

C & J EMPLOYMENT

Please send CVs to caribgaming@express.tc

FOUNTAINHEAD CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Acting on behalf of our clients: Sweet T’s Restaurant, Danny Buoy’s Restaurant, Terrell Gardiner, Vaguy Vilmar (Blue Hills Construction), Road Side Quality Trading, Maison Creole (Lucy Mott Lee), Provo Repair Cabinet is looking to fill the following positions:

Labourer

Domestic Worker – $5.00 per hour Kitchen Helper – $5.00 per hour Laborer/ Cleaner – $5.00 per hour Waitress – $5.00 per hour Sales Clerk/ Person – $5.00 per hour

Contact: 649-941-8382

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

To work 6 days per week. Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact: 346-0129

7769

COSMO TRIPODI

CLAUDE SWANN Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Local firm seeks and Associate Attorney with at least 5 years pqe with extensive experience in conveyancing, commercial, residential development work, also corporate and commercial law. Experience in new condominium sales, re-sales, residential and commercial property an advantage. Applicant must be an excellent communicator, willing to work long hours including weekends and holidays.

Subject to experience salary commencing at US$55K

Please submit applications to The Manager, P.O. Box 97, Caribbean Place, Providenciales, Fax: 649-946-4564 with a copy to: Department of Labour, Providenciales

Contact: 241-3362

Wanted: Slot Technician

NEEDED FOR DIVE OPERATION

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

salary $5.00 per hour.

7784

• Experienced PADI Dive Instructor & PADI Divemaster • Must have valid insurance & certification • Must have a good personality to work around people • Must have Mechanical & Sales Experience • Flexible hours a must- Holidays & Sundays Required • Salary starts at $375.00 per week

To apply, send your resume with cover letter to: careers@bluehaventci.com and place “Marina” as the subject. Applications close EOD on 22nd Feb 2013. 7782

Labourer/ Handyman To work 6 days per week

To apply, send your resume with cover letter to: careers@bluehaventci.com and place “Marina” as the subject. Applications close EOD on 22nd Feb 2013.

7783

Receptionist / Front Desk Agent

Is looking for a

7773

Cosmetologist

Dock Attendant

CECIL SWANN

Office Administrator

7788

is looking for a

7792

A TOUCH OF CLASS

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

7785

32 CLASSIFIEDS

Is looking for a

Gardener

7790

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 946-5759

7774

Domestic Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 331-5214

7776

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

Contact: 242-3883

7797

February 16 - 22, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ISLAND NETWORK FITNESS, RECREATION AND CONSULTING

Joseph Watkins Is looking for a

Pauline Handfield/ Veneta Gardiner

LION CONSTRUCTION is looking for a

Pauline's Turf Shop (NC)

Is looking for a

Lecturer to work weekdays as well as weekends and public holidays

Requirements: • 5 years of lecturer experience • Must have an educational degree as a lecturer along with own transportation • Other language skills are a plus • Interested persons must.

Contact: 649-946-4736

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

contact: 343-4360 7787

Management or equivalent • Masters Degree in Business or equivalent • Ten or more years of management and leadership responsibilities in the 5 star hotel and tourism industry • Food and Beverage background with experience on 5 star properties • Must possess excellent communication and written skills • Candidate with ability to speak multiple languages is a benefit • This position is immediately available. Salary based on qualifications and experience. All applicants will be reviewed; however only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Applicants should apply in writing, preferably by email by February 23rd to: Apex Development Ltd. (Attention: Manager) Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Email: ApexTCIDevelopments@hotmail.com Phone: 649-941-7299 Fax: 649-941-7498

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

7771

7791

Misick & Stanbrook Is seeking to fill the following positions

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

;; Qualification in Accountancy from a recognized institution ;; At least 10 years experience as an accountant in a senior capacity ;; Certification as a CPA, CA/ ACCA OR similar ;; Experience with PC, Law, QuickBooks and Microsoft Office Suite Software ;; Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience Closing date for applications is February 18th, 2013

Application should send detailed CV with the names of two references to: Deveraux Malcolm, Misick & Stanbrook via fax: 649-946-4734 or email: info@misickstanbrook.tc

COOK

To run a small restaurant in North Caicos. 40 hours per week $5.50 per hour.

Contact 242-9122

7793

PROVO BEVERAGES Is looking for a

Labourer

is looking for the following persons

ORGANIZER OF ISLAND ADVENTURES & PURSUITS

Qualifications: • Bachelor Degree in Tourism and Hotel

$5.00 per hour.

North Caicos.

Contact 242-9122

POWER & BEAUTY HAIR SALON

APEX DEVELOPMENT LTD.

Responsibilities: • Provide owners and clients with 24 hr concierge service • Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships with owners, investors, lenders, designers, contractors, and vendors • Must be able to coordinate and manage service of a 5 star meal • Must be available on weekends and public holidays • Overseeing and maintaining all equipment pertinent to operation

Live in Caretaker

Carpenter To work 4 days

Experience

Cosmetologist

• Must be willing to work six days per week • Must be trustworthy and reliable • Salary $5.00 per hour • Hours are from 8:00am-4:00pm

Contact: 343-1627

Contact: Serge Tuyssuzian @ 649-941-3637 or fax: 649941-3637

Barber

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

7781

7773

LINE COOK NEEDED Skill Requirements: • Cook eggs and other breakfast items to order to customer’s specification.

• Cook lunch and dinner items to order to customer’s specification to include, but not limited to: • Cooking meats to temperature such as hamburgers and steaks • Produce salads, sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, burritos, fajitas and other • Tex - Mex items that appear on the menu at Somewhere Café and Lounge.

• Assist with prepping foods for service by following recipe standards, strong knife skills and • proper sanitation to produce high quality food that accurately represents the Café.

• Work with other kitchen staff members to execute food, prioritize steps, and contribute to the overall • team atmosphere of the kitchen.

• Participate in daily cleaning duties as per scheduled by the Chef to maintain a clean safe environment for all employees to work in.

• Cook on the line, during service in a high pressure environment, executing food to order in an ala minute • kitchen according to the ticket in a timely manner.

• Be able to stand on ones feet for 8 hours and be comfortable lifting 25 pounds or more without physical restrictions.

• Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule.

• Belongers given preference

Pay Commensurate with Experience

Submit resume, certifications and current police record in person to be considered to: chefamy@somewherecafeandlounge.com

7777

34 CLASSIFIEDS

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MANGO BAR & RESTAURANT

CARIBBEAN CRUSIN’ LTD.

Is looking for a

Barmaid

Is seeking to hire a qualified person to fill the position of

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

Contact: 247-0187 or 346-4245

Labourer Needed

FRANCISCO REYES Is looking for a

Bonded Warehouse facility requires a labourer to do general cleaning, maintenance and movement of cargo.

Salary: Starting at $6:00 per hour for 40 hour work-week.

Labourer To work 5 days

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

7816

Contact Cargo Express Services, in person, at 70 South Dock Road or fax application to 941-5525 Application deadline: March 1, 2013

7773

contact: 242-2548

Operations Manager Duties: • Maintain and review the schedule of services, both prearranged ferry trips and custom charter trips. Check, record and balance the number of guests on all trips whether scheduled ferry or charter.

• Monitor and control the receipt of funds and the payment of funds related to the daily operation of the business. Ensure that an accurate record of all receipts and expenditures is kept.

• Maintain and review the maintenance schedule of all vessels and vehicles owned by the business. Ensure that all vessels and vehicles are maintained according to company policy.

• Supervise Train, Motivate, Discipline, and Review and generally manage all other staff.

• The continuity and success of the business relies on satisfied customer experiences. The operations manager is responsible for ensuring that the customer satisfaction rate remains and that scheduled ferry trips and charter schedules are honoured in a timely fashion.

• The manager will be responsible for all vehicles and vessels that are conducting company business at all times of the day.

• Qualifications • 3 years experience on a Passenger Vessel in local water • 5 years experience in Marine Management • Proven track record in corporate and personnel management • Local Capitan’s license • Maritime safety certification • Salary commensurate with experience and commission base on revenue generated.

• Hours of Work The Ferry Schedule is from 6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Saturday and 9:30am to 5:15pm on Sundays.

VACANCIES

Human Resource Manager Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Fax: 941-3223. Tel: 941-3082 7812

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:

PROJECT SALES AND MARKETING EXECUTIVE

POSITION AVAILABLE Audio/Video Editor

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 • Good knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint required • Experience with website, and other social media site development and maintenance

Main Purpose of Job: Responsible for Preparing programs for television, advertisements, titles and graphics Essential Duties: • Editing film/footage to the exact final length • Responsible for creative materials liaising with the creative team, graphic designer and the Marketing Director to ensure smooth and efficient delivery.

• Responsible for accuracy and consistency of written, visual and web materials.

• Work with various offices to produce production schedules for creative proofs and liaise with international offices.

LINE POSITIONS

Experience, Qualifications and Skills: • Certificate or Diploma related to video editing • Eight or more years experience in Television Broadcasting (must possess relevant certification) with good production/trafficking skills and be able to work in a fast paced environment.

• Skilful operator of Audio/Video Editing Systems working on both online and offline materials as well as on special communication projects • Knowledge of TV, Camera, and Lighting for Quality Control, Animations • Production experience, good interpersonal skills and creative ability, good storytelling skills, a methodical mind, and ability to communicate well.

• Ability to meet deadlines and have strong organizational skills as well as an eye for detail.

• Management skills would be an asset.

• Required to work evenings, weekends and holidays

LABOURER ROOM ATTENDANT COMMON AREA ATTENDANT 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 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 28, 2013.

Salary commensurate with experience.

Send Resumes to kay@acltci.tc or P.O. Box 230 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

7778

No telephone calls please.

7779

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

1 Kitchen Helper Minimum 5 years experience working in a kitchen as a Line cook in a VERY high volume Restaurant.

Must have knowledge of taking inventory daily. Pay rate is $5/hr Please submit Resumes at the restaurant at 499 Bay Rd. Blue Hills, Providenciales TCI Phone: (649)-946-8877

Is looking for a

Labourer To work 4 days per week salary $5.00 per hour Duties: Clean around the yard and do other maintenance

Contact: 231-1932

ISLAND ESCAPE TURKS & CAICOS LTD. Seeks to employ a

Labourer Must able to do plumbing & electrical work. Flexible hours

Contact: Ms. Rigby at 244-4665

VERNESA QUELCH

7799

ADVERTISE

IN THIS SPACE! ONLY

$33

PER WEEK CALL 946-4664

CLASSIFIEDS 35

CHEF NEEDED

Applicants must have at least 5 years experience specifically with Italian cuisine. Be fully capable to coordinate all dining operations including: Managing the kitchen and all its staff, overseeing meal preparation, planning of daily menu, orders and purchasing, staff scheduling and supplies. A great sense of hygiene, willingness to work with dynamic team. Must have excellent employment history in the industry complete with references. Must be willing to work irregular hours, shifts and long late hours.

Applicants without complete references need not apply. $12/hr based on qualification. Contact Global Services at (649) 331-1809

SAUCIER NEEDED

Applicants must have formal culinary experience. Must be able to perform mathematical calculations in order to convert recipes and inventory. Must have highly advanced culinary and artistic skills, full comprehension of entire kitchen departments and different product identification. Must have experience in regional Italian cuisine and be very knowledgeable about produce, spices and oils found throughout the region. Must be able to assist the Chef in all his duties. Fully trained in the proper health and hygiene regulations in regards to staff, kitchen cleanliness, storage and handling of food. Must be willing to work irregular hours, shifts and long late hours. $10/hr depending on experience and qualifications.

Contact Global Services at (649) 331-1809

7799

7814

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Qualified PADI/ NAUI SCUBA Instructors Needed

Public Statement Re: Sigma Trust Company Limited

Successful candidate will be a PADI MSDT with current membership and insurance, resort operations experience including advanced level instruction, dive accident management, compressor maintenance, equipment and engine maintenance and repair, applicant must be willing to train. STCW95 required and captain’s license preferred.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, BWI – 11 February 2013 - The Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission (“The Commission”) considers it necessary to issue this public statement in order to protect the public interest, and the interests of any of the customers and creditors of the Sigma Trust Company Limited (hereinafter referred to as „ Sigma), and further to make the general public aware that Sigma is no longer a licensee of the Commission.

This is a tourism related job and will include all aspects of the company’s daily routine including but not limited to, teaching all levels of instruction, guiding dives, boat and vehicle operations and working the front office. The work schedule will include weekends, public holidays and occasional night dives.

The details are:

Starting Salary $380 - $500 per week based on experience and qualifications.

Contact David Volkert at 946-4232 or info@ provoturtledivers.com Positions available starting March 15, 2013.

Please submit applications before March 1, 2013

7815

1. Sigma was issued a license to act as a Professional Trustee (License No. 12) pursuant to the Trustee (Licensing) Ordinance 1992 on 13th July 1994.

2. Sigma has made application to the Commission, pursuant to Section 34(1) (c) of the Financial Services Commission Ordinance, to have is license revoked.

3. The Commission accepted Sigma's application and subsequently revoked its license to act as a Professional Trustee on 1st February 2013.

This Public Statement was issued pursuant to Section 39 of the Financial Services Commission Ordinance J. Kevin Higgins Managing Director

36 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

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

General Manager

The General Manager is the primary strategic business leader of the property with responsibility for all aspects of the operation. The General Manager must oversee property performance, sales & marketing initiatives and strategies, manage profitability and revenue generation.

Additionally, the General Manager must be able to attract talent and build talented teams and be multi-skilled and celebrate diverse environments and can relate to people from a variety of backgrounds. The General Manager must have at least 10 years experience in managing in a five star boutique hotel with minimum 3 as a GM. Essential duties include but not limited to: Maximize revenue and profitability, represent the hotel in the community and head the executive committee of the property. Manage all sources of revenue to include rooms, food and beverage, and others. Ensures all departments are profitable and maintain strong working relationships with all stakeholders. Achieve exceptional levels of guest and team member satisfaction. Promote the Gansevoort culture at every opportunity and stay true to its core values.

Operate the hotel under the covenants of the management agreement, and other relevant brand standards/SOPs. Establish the strategic plan and execute to fulfill property revenue and profit objectives in accordance to annual budget, marketing plan and capital expenditure plan. In collaboration with the hotel's financial controller, prepare and manage the budget and quarterly forecast process, and general reporting requirements internally, with brand leadership, banking affiliates, owner's representatives and investors. Continually analyze market trends and direct team accordingly to obtain objectives. Creates local and national marketing plans and pricing strategies and knows market segments. Responds quickly to changing market conditions and revises strategies accordingly.

Actively participates in sales discussions, meetings and plans. Knows monthly production levels for each sales team. Produces monthly financial reports and knows at all times where the hotel stands against budget. Protects the hotel and its assets through enforcing and maintaining a preventative maintenance program. Provide exceptional customer service to all hotel guests, making their stay as comfortable and accommodating as possible while achieving team and Brand goals. Follows company policies and procedures and is able to effectively communicate them to subordinates.

Chief Engineer

Responsible for all aspects of the maintenance of the Resort. The successful candidate will be responsible for short and long-range planning, coordinating all capital, expansion, and special projects, and management of the engineering department’s financial budget. The ideal candidate will have prior resort engineering experience within a five-star environment. Prior Caribbean experience desired.

Essential Duties: Manages the resort’s maintenance and engineering operations including guest rooms, building structures, front and back of house facilities, all mechanical, electrical, water treatment and HVAC systems, refrigeration and any related equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures. Works closely with leadership to develop and execute an operating strategy that aligns with business strategy. Manages controllable expenses through the implementation of cost saving and energy conservation programs (e.g., wages, heat, light and power, water consumption, tools and equipment, grounds keeping supplies, uniforms, vendors, service agreements,

inventory, etc.). Monitors and maintains fire, health and safety systems and collaborates with relevant fire, emergency and governmental agencies to ensure complete understanding of regulations, procedures, alarms, and equipment. Develops engineering budget and ensures departmental performance meets/exceeds budgetary goals. Regularly reviews financial reports/statements/ forecasts to evaluate financial performance against budget. Controls engineering expenditures and ensures all projects are completed timely and within budget. Serves as project manager on resort projects, overseeing all aspects from design and costing to construction. Controls and administers all engineering/service contracts throughout the resort, always negotiating in the best interest of the resort. Collaborates with vendors/contractors and monitors work product to ensure quality standards are consistent with the requirements of a luxury resort.

Develops, implements and manages emergency and disaster management programs. Assists with developing Strata budget and managing Strata Costs, Manages accurate and timely bill back process for Condo units.

Manages pool chemical balance and maintenance of all pool equipment. Maintains FFE. Manages and maintains security cameras and lighting systems. Develops, executes and monitors preventative maintenance and asset protection programs. Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures for engineering department.

Exercises general supervision over the engineering team and communicates a clear and concise vision regarding department goals to produce desired results. Liaises with department heads to understand challenges and ensure maintenance needs are addressed. Proactively addresses problems and quickly identifies and implements solutions.

Keeps owners and executives informed, and provides timely response to queries from the same. Hires, mentors and trains engineering staff; establishes performance guidelines; and evaluates staff performance in accordance with resort policies. Complies with departmental standard operating procedures, Resort policies and TCIG health and safety regulations Skills/Qualifications: • To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field with a minimum of 10 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment, or equivalent combination of experience and education • Minimum 5 years’ experience as Chief Engineer for a luxury property, preferably in the Caribbean • Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop skills, mentor and motivate a team • Thorough knowledge of resort engineering procedures, operations and equipment, with the ability to execute all aspects • Thorough knowledge of building codes, fire safety systems, plumbing and electrical systems, mechanical and HVAC, and carpentry disciplines • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language • Computer proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Financial Director

To direct the resort’s accounting and financial management functions. Manage the accounting staff, procurement function and information technology systems. To provide timely and meaningful information to the general manager and management team with regard to the resort’s financial performance. To proactively lead cost containment efforts, revenue enhancement, profit improvement opportunities and safeguarding of the company’s assets.

Essential Duties: Plan, develop, implement, direct and regularly evaluate the resort’s financial functions and performance. Participate in short- and long-range strategic financial planning and regularly evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of plans. Prepare, analyze, interpret and communicate financial results to General Manager and the management team. Maintain proper and complete financial records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, ensuring that resort accounts, records and transactions are accurate and correct at all times. Safeguard the resort’s assets by establishing, monitoring and enforcing internal controls. Provide financial management tools that assist management with planning, forecasting and maximizing financial performance.

Compile budgets, forecasts, financial reports and financial trends. Optimize bank and deposit relationships and initiate appropriate strategies to enhance cash position. Keep GM informed at all times of cash position. To ensure that the established controls and procedures in respect to the controller’s areas of responsibility are being complied with at all times. Assists with developing Strata budget and manages Strata Costs.

Exercise general supervision over the accounting team and related functions (A/P, A/R, payroll, etc). Communicate a clear and concise message regarding department goals to produce desired results. Coordinate audit process and organize information required by outside examiners/ auditors. Keep owners and executives informed, and provide timely response to queries from the same. Oversee the hotel’s computer and software systems, ensuring that systems are safeguarded and properly maintained.

Implement changes/additions to the electronic data processing systems of the hotel as required/necessary.

Develop, implement and enforce policies and procedures that improve the financial operation and effectiveness of the resort. Ensure that there are, at all times, proper procedures and controls for cashiers, purchasing, receiving, stores and requisitioning, and that the same are enforced.

Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures for accounting department. Protect confidential data and restrict communications of same only to authorized persons. Perform other duties as directed by the General Manager or any other authorized executive.

Skills/Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Accounting, Finance or related field, or equivalent combination of experience and education. MBA, CPA or ACA designation essential.

• 10 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment with minimum 5 years managing an accounting function within a luxury resort/hotel environment.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop, mentor and motivate a team.

• Thorough knowledge of condo resort accounting, strata management, payroll and IT. • Proficiency in MS Office, Opera PMS and Data Plus financial management system.

• Deadline oriented with the ability to multi-task and establish priorities.

• Strong oral and written communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language.

Labourer/ Engineer Technician

Report directly to the Chief Engineering. This position is responsible for the day to day maintenance of the hotel. This position demands attention to detail, technical expertise and understanding of the preventive maintenance process.

Minimum Requirements: • Minimum 5 years experience, at least 2 years 7761

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JOB ADVERTISEMENT CONTINUED

• • • •

•

in construction field and/or resort property management.

Associate’s degree in engineering or certification or equivalent experience.

Ability to recognize and anticipate problems early.

Require heavy lifting and hard work therefore an affinity for hard work and excellent physical strength is mandatory.

Must be highly motivated, a self starter who needs little supervision and solution oriented.

Excellent team player qualities and self discipline is mandatory.

Restaurant / Bar Manager

Report Directly to the Food & Beverage Director. This position is responsible for managing all activities of the Food & Beverage Departments for the organization. The daily operation of vessel’s Beverage Sales Operation including the effective administration, supervision and execution of programs consistent with the company standards and goals of providing excellent service while generating maximum revenue.

Essential duties include but not limited to: Directs the activities of restaurant service personnel, Bartenders, Beverage Attendants, Host/Hostess. Directs and ensures the implementation and execution of corporate policies and procedures. Controls, measures and reports Outlet sales performance on a daily basis and takes required corrective action to ensure operations are in accordance with the company standards and objectives. Creates new opportunities and maximizes existing ones to generate extra revenue. Maximizes profitability by increasing turnover (revenue and covers).

Ensures that department’s operational budget is strictly adhered to and that all costs are strictly controlled.

Recommends measures to control/reduce costs. Works closely with the Controller and provisioning in regards to inventory taking, cost control, loading, ordering and storing. Ensures that all bars are counted after each shift and investigates discrepancies. Assures correct pouring and ensures proper void handling.

Requirements: • College or University degree in hospitality management, business administration or related field preferred. International equivalent suffices.

• 4-6 years restaurant operational management experience in 4/5 star hotels, restaurants • Fluent in English, both verbal and written. A second language is preferred.

• Experience in managing a large multi-national staff.

• Extensive knowledge of varying brands and quality of liquors.

• Knowledge of new and old world wines including food and wine pairing.

• Ability to read, interpret and demonstrate the preparation of drink recipes.

• Ability to investigate and solve guest complaints, follow up and meet/exceed guest expectations.

• Extensive knowledge of Micros POS and Opera

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com 7761

CLASSIFIEDS 37

IMMEDIATE OPENING Director Of Engineering

We are currently seeking to fill an immediate opening for Director of Engineering for one of our luxury resort clients. This position is currently available and is accountable for short and long-range planning, managing engineering operations for the entire resort; ensuring the upkeep of all guest and service areas; coordinating all capital, expansion and/or special projects; and maximizing financial performance through stringent management of the department’s budget.

Essential Duties: • Manage the resort’s maintenance and engineering operations including guest rooms, building structures, front and back of house facilities, all mechanical, electrical, water treatment and HVAC systems, refrigeration and any related equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures.

• Work closely with property/regional leadership to develop and execute an operating strategy that aligns with the resort’s/brand’s business strategy.

• Manage controllable expenses through the implementation of cost saving and energy conservation programs (e.g., wages, heat, light and power, water consumption, tools and equipment, grounds keeping supplies, uniforms, vendors, service agreements, inventory, etc.).

• Monitor and maintain fire, health and safety systems and collaborate with relevant fire, emergency and governmental agencies to ensure complete understanding of regulations, procedures, alarms, and equipment.

• Develop engineering budget and ensure departmental performance meets/exceeds budgetary goals.

• Regularly review financial reports/statements/forecasts to evaluate financial performance against budget.

• Control engineering expenditures and ensure all projects are completed timely and within budget.

• Serve as project manager on resort projects, overseeing all aspects from design and costing to construction.

• Control and administer all engineering/service contracts throughout the resort, always negotiating in the best interest of the resort.

• Collaborate with vendors/contractors and monitor work product to ensure quality standards are consistent with the requirements of a luxury resort.

• Work closely with property/regional leadership to develop and execute an operating strategy that aligns with the resort’s/brand’s business strategy.

• Manage controllable expenses through the implementation of cost saving and energy conservation programs (e.g., wages, heat, light and power, water consumption, tools and equipment, grounds keeping supplies, uniforms, vendors, service agreements, inventory, etc.).

• Monitor and maintain fire, health and safety systems and collaborate with relevant fire, emergency and governmental agencies to ensure complete understanding of regulations, procedures, alarms, and equipment.

• Develop engineering budget and ensure departmental performance meets/exceeds budgetary goals.

• Regularly review financial reports/statements/forecasts to evaluate financial performance against budget.

• Control engineering expenditures and ensure all projects are completed timely and within budget.

• Serve as project manager on resort projects, overseeing all aspects from design and costing to construction.

• Control and administer all engineering/service contracts throughout the resort, always negotiating in the best interest of the resort.

• Collaborate with vendors/contractors and monitor work product to ensure quality standards are consistent with the requirements of a luxury resort.

• Develop, implement and manage emergency and disaster management programs

• Assist with developing Strata budget and manage Strata Costs • Manage accurate and timely bill back process for Condo units • Manage pool chemical balance and maintenance of all pool equipment • Manage and maintain Security Camera System • Manage and maintain all lighting systems • Develop, execute and monitor preventative maintenance and asset protection programs.

• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures for engineering department.

• Exercise general supervision over the engineering team and communicate a clear and concise message regarding department goals to produce desired results.

• Liaise with department heads to understand challenges and ensure maintenance needs are addressed.

• Proactively addresse problems and quickly identify and implementsolutions • Keep owners and executive informed, and provide timely response to queries from the same.

• Hire, mentor and train engineering staff; establish performance guidelines; and evaluate staff performance in accordance with resort policies • Comply with departmental standard operating procedures, Resort policies and TCIG health and safety regulations • Perform special projects and other duties as assigned Skills/Qualifications: • To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field with a minimum of 10 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment, or equivalent combination of experience and education • Minimum 5 years’ experience as Chief Engineer for Luxury Resort • Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop skills, mentor and motivate a team • Thorough knowledge of resort engineering procedures, operations and equipment, with the ability to execute all aspects • Thorough knowledge of building codes, fire safety systems, plumbing and electrical systems, mechanical and HVAC, and carpentry disciplines • Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem solving skills • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language • Professional appearance and demeanor • Computer proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook Working Conditions: • Frequent standing, walking, climbing, bending and/or heavy lifting • May be subjected to extreme heat, noise, dust and fumes • Regular interface with contractors, vendors, internal and external customers • Ability to travel locally or regionally • Work hours may extend to evenings, weekends and/or holidays

Interested candidates should submit a resume to Bridgette Thomas at bthomas@bnccgroup.com or call 649-332-2565 for confidential consideration. Deadline for applications will remain open until position is filled.

ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED. 7764

38 CLASSIFIEDS

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BAY BISTRO

Ocean Club Resorts

BAY BISTRO is looking for a

Is looking for a

VACANCIES Is looking for qualified, experienced applicants for THE POSITIONS OF:

• LABOURER • BELLMAN • GARDENER • BELLSTAFF SUPERVISOR • GARDENING SUPERVISOR 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.

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.

Only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

GOVERNMENT VACANCY

Assistant Customs Officer

Kitchen Helper

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 946-5396 7800

BEAUTY & BEYOND is looking for a

Waitress

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 946-5396 7803

Massage Therapist Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary based on commission.

contact: 941-8928

7820

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

GOVERNMENT VACANCY JOB TITLE: HEAD OF INTERNAL AUDIT

EPARTMENT: Customs Department MINISTRY: Finance

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks and Caicos Islands Government for the post of Head of Internal Audit. The post has recently been established under section 16 (1) of the Public Finance Management Ordinance 2012 where it is referred to as the Chief Internal Auditor. The successful candidate will develop the work already started to set up and shape this key function of the governance framework to provide independent assurance on the adequacy, reliability and efficiency of the systems of internal control, the suitability of corporate governance arrangements and that appropriate risk management strategies and processes are in place. The appointment is for an initial period of three years with possible extension.

JOB SUMMARY The post holder will be responsible for general customs duties, which will include and is not limited to: maintaining Customs Intelligence Database; assisting at the Transit Shed, Airport FBO and Bond Warehouse; carrying out Post Audit Verifications; as well as monitoring Bond Accounts. He/She is also expected to: monitor the entrance and clearance of aircrafts and vessels; examine passengers and their luggage; inspect cargo; process customs entries to ensure the correct application of duties and taxes; conduct search and rummage of vehicles and aircraft and inspect duty free shops and private bonded warehouses. Other duties include assisting with department filing and other office related duties, seizing prohibited goods, as well as verifying and classifying merchandise.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The successful candidate must possess three (3) Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) passes, two (2) of which must be Mathematics and English and he/she must be knowledgeable of Microsoft Office Suite. The job requires the candidate to be analytical with the ability to deal with several situations at any given time, giving priority, based on the situation and the officer must be able to execute such duties with confidence and in a calm, methodological manner. He/She must also have good oral and report writing skills.

SALARY T8-T13 $18,240 - $22,080 PER ANNUM Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov. tc with the subject line being: Assistant Customs Officer. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: Assistant Customs Officer Application clearly marked on the envelopes.

Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 21st February, 2013 ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED 7810

The position requires a Bachelors degree in Accounting or Finance and at least (3) three years of senior internal audit experience including contracted out audit services.

Must be a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors, holding either the CIA or CMIIA designation, or a member of one of the professional bodies covered by the Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies (CCAB) or an international equivalent. Having Certified Fraud Examiner (or equivalent); Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or equivalent. Previous experience of internal audit in a public sector environment is highly desirable.

SALARY: $62,500.00 per annum Serving Officers should apply through their Heads of Department. For persons recruited outside the Turks and Caicos Islands, the following benefits are offered in addition to basic salary: A two or three year extendable contract; housing allowance, end-of-contract gratuity of 15% of salary, return passages for a family of up to two children under the age of 16 years, duty free personal shipping imported within six months of the appointment.

For more information on the Job Description please contact the Human Resource Management Directorate, Telephone 649-946-2801, Extension: 10321, E-mail: recruitment@gov.tc All resumes with contact information and two letters of reference, copy of passport photo page and a police certificate should be addressed to the Human Resource Director, Human Resource Management Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 649-946-1582 Previous Applicants Need Not Reapply

ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED APPLICATION DEADLINE: 20th February 2013

7811

February 16 - 22, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GOVERNMENT VACANCY SCHOLARSHIP OFFICER DEPARTMENT: Scholarship MINISTRY: Education, Youth, Sports and Culture LOCATION: Grand Turk

Internal Auditor Duties and Responsibilities

JOB SUMMARY To provide secretarial support and services to the Scholarship Secretariat/Unit.

To ensure that correspondence are acknowledged, responded and dispatched in a timely manner. To ensure that accurate and up-to-date information is available to policy and senior decision makers in a timely manner.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Collects student applications and prepare and disburse notification letters acknowledging receipt and status of application.

• Maintains all materials (e.g. brochures, application forms) and arrange for distribution in response to requests.

• Under the supervision of the Scholarship Secretariat Manager prepare and dispatch scholarship award letters, bonds, brochures, etc. to scholarship recipients.

• Assists with processing tuition and subsistence payments for overseas and local scholarships.

• Prepares tuition payment cover letters and couriers packets for disbursement and keep a log-book of the same.

• Prepares documents and make arrangements for scholarship board meetings.

• Receives all telephone calls pertaining to scholarships and direct them to the appropriate officer.

• Relays the status of student application or scholarships.

• Maintains the scholarship database for local and overseas scholarship and grant recipients.

• Ensures that entries are posted and filing is done on a daily basis.

• Prepares statistical reports on student enrolment, completion dates.

• Adheres to all Public Service codes, rules and regulations • Other related tasks as assigned.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES • • • • • • • •

Ability to type accurately.

Good computer skills Good organizational skills Ability to follow instructions and act upon them in a timely manner.

Ability to work as a part of a team Knowledge of smart stream system MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: A certificate in Corporate Secretary ship or an Associates Degree in Business Administration • A minimum of four years experience in a related field.

SALARY: $T22 $26,940 per annum Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 9461582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line being: Scholarship Officer Application. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: Scholarship Officer Application clearly marked on the envelopes.

;; To work with the management and the board to ensure a system is in place which ensures that all risks are identified, analyzed, and controlled on a periodic basis ;; To plan and organize an annual audit plan, and carry out regular operation’s audit in accordance with the plan. ;; To liaise with the external auditors and ensure that each party is not only aware of the other's work but also well briefed on areas of concern ;; To make recommendations on the systems and procedures being reviewed, report on the findings and recommendations and monitor management's response and implementation ;; To review internal processes and controls for the purpose of ensuring financial information is properly processed, reported, and safeguarded. ;; To review and report on the accuracy, timeliness and relevance of the financial and other information that is provided for management ;; To research discrepancies of financial information and/or documentation for the purpose of ensuring accuracy of data. ;; To provide assistance to staffs in using accounting system, implementing updates to policies and procedures and other related activities. ;; To respond to inquiries from a variety of sources (e.g. staff, government auditors, government agencies, etc.) for the purpose of providing information related to accounting issues and clarification as needed. ;; To conduct any reviews or tasks requested by the board, the audit committee, CEO or CFO, provided such reviews and tasks do not compromise the independence or objectivity of the internal audit function ;; To provide both management and the audit committee with an opinion on the internal controls. ;; Perform other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of NHIB.

Person specification ;; Must be a Certified Public Accountant, or Certified Internal Auditor or equivalent professional designation ;; A degree or related certifications or trainings in Information Technology ;; A working experience in Microsoft Dynamics GP and Plexis Claims Management is preferred ;; Knowledge of audit procedures, including planning, techniques, test and sampling methods involved in conducting audits ;; Knowledge of computerized accounting and auditing record keeping systems ;; Ability to gather, analyze and evaluate facts and to prepare and present concise oral and written reports ;; Ability to maintain current knowledge of developments related to business matters of interest to internal audit, particularly legislation changes and developments as they affect NHIB, and new auditing techniques ;; and practices ;; Ability to establish and retain effective working relationships with co-employees and to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing ;; Ability to be able to work efficiently with little or no supervision

Salary Salary will commensurate with qualifications and experience within the range $42,000 to $48,000 per annum.

Deadline for Submission is February 22, 2013.

All Applications should be addressed to:

Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

Only qualified Belongers will be considered for this position.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 22nd February, 2013 7809

Zaneta Burton Chief Executive Officer National Health Insurance Board Salt Mills Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: Zburton@tcinhip.tc

40 CLASSIFIEDS

ISLAND CHEFS

CARIBBEAN CONSTRUCTION

DAVID HUGH SAUNDERS

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

•Fresh •Low fat •Healthy •delicious •Clean up •Dinners, parties etc.

7748

Contact: 341-4271

Carpenter Labourer To work 5 days to work 5 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

contact: 242-2686

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

7818

EDNA STERLING

FRANCISCO REYES

Is looking for a

DOMESTIC HELPER NEEDED Please apply via telephone 649 241 7907 if interested

7827

GESNER GUERRIER

contact: 345-5982

7806

PERSONAL CHEF SERVICES •Planning •Shopping •Prepping •Cooking •Packaging •Custom menus

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Is looking for a

Labourer Labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-1006 7821

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

7797

HOLE IN THE WALL

GORDON SUPPLY

VILLA HOST

LaboUrer Sales Clerk

Minimum 2 years’ experience working in a 5-star resort, private estate or luxury motor yacht with solid food and beverage service experience. Must be immaculately presented, fluent in English and possess the confidence to communicate directly with villa owners and renters. A friendly, outgoing yet professional demeanor is required. Must be self-motivated, disciplined, flexible and hard-working.

This is a live-in position and extended working hours are required when villa is occupied.

Salary must commensurate with qualifications

Resumes can be faxed to 9413425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible

7817

7826

Is looking for a

NEEDED Must be certified level 2 minimum of 3 years teaching experience.

Contact: 242-2927 7804

LABOURER

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

ISLAND ESCAPE TURKS & CAICOS LTD.

KITEBOARD INSTRUCTOR

Candidate must have these qualifications: • At least (5) Years’ experience • Cisco Unified Networking, Routing, Switching, Firewall, Bandwidth Management • Cisco Call Manager VOIP, Unified Wireless • Micros Opera PMS, Micros 9700 POS, IP CCTV • Active Directory, Windows Server Administration • Linux Server Administration, Copper & Fiber Optic Cabling • General User end desktop repair / maintenance and administration

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

Domestic Worker

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

Contact: 241-6565

Job Requirements: Minimum requirement of a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting/Finance Complete knowledge of hotel accounting systems and procedures 8 to 10 years of Managerial Accounting/ Finance experience and; Exceptional analytical ability required. Advanced Excel skills, ability to plan, prioritize & implement effectively multi-task while working effectively in a fast paced and ever changing and challenging environment.

VILLA COOKS

UPSTAIRS BAR & GRILL

Cashier

Key Responsibilities: 1) Assume responsibility for all day-to day accounting functions within the Hotel and the Villas, including banking, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, inventory, and cash management.

2) Lead the accounting team, ensuring all daily operational & financial transactions is prepared accurately and in a timely manner. Hire, train, and evaluate the performance of the accounting team members.

3) Produce month-end & year-end financial statements in an accurate and timely manner, analyzing, understanding and communicating the relationship between actual results to budget and prior year and provide commentary on variances.

4) Review and continually improve internal controls, processes and procedures to ensure financial information is complete & accurate and to ensure the security of assets.

5) As an active member of the Management Team, assist the GM & Division Heads in budget preparation, business plans & the gathering of financial data for special projects & reports.

Recommend and implement cost savings strategies.

IT Manager

Contact: 242-2548

Chef Waitress

Is looking for a

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

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

Labourer Must be able to do plumbing and electrical work. Must be able to work flexible hours.

Salary $8.00 per hour

Contact: 244-4665 7798

INCOME AUDITOR

Minimum 3 years previous experience in a similar role in a luxury resort. Must have solid experience in reviewing and verifying accuracy of hotel/restaurant revenues and preparation of daily, weekly and month-end reports. Advanced computer and mathematical skills required. Must also be detailorientated with good communication skills.

NIGHT AUDITOR

Minimum of 2 years previous experience in a similar role in a luxury resort. Must have solid experience in preparing night audit reports and journals, making corrections and adjustments and balancing revenue and settlement accounts. Advanced computer skills required including Micros, Opera and Excel. Must be prepared to work the night shift.

All positions require a flexible schedule (which may include holidays, weekends and evenings) and extended hours on occasion. Salaries based on experience and qualifications. BELONGERS ONLY MAY APPLY. APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FROM THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE WEDNESDAYS ONLY 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM. E-mail mstubbs@amanresorts.com 7825

February 16 - 22, 2013

for sale

CLASSIFIEDS 41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS REQUIRED FOR RESIDENCES AT NORTH CAICOS

Paradise Ltd

is seeking

Assistant Store Manager • Must have 15 years of experience in retail management, proven sales track record and proof thereof.

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree is required. Financial background with extensive knowledge of finance and accounting.

Pure breed Apricot female Toy Poodle

Store Clerk

• Must have 10 years of experience in a retail/accounting/clerical position and proof thereof.

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in business. Degree in marketing preferred.

• Demonstrate computer proficiency and in-depth knowledge of QuickBooks, Excel, Adobe and Microsoft Word.

GARDENER/ LABOURER Experienced gardener/ labourer required for full time work at two residences and hardware store at the Bottle Creek and Whitby, North Caicos. Must be willing to work six days a week.

A demonstrated ability to work unsupervised with excellent communication skills is essential for the position. Work description includes maintenance to gardens and exterior of premises, car wash, offloading containers, garbage disposal, minor house repairs, dog care, etc. Salary is $5.00 per hour.

Call 442-8888 ON THE RUN MINI MART Is looking to fill the following positions:

Labourer Housekeeper Child Caregiver

Must be willing to work 5 days per week salary negotiable

Please apply no later than 13th March, 2013 at handmy@ tciway.tc or contact on telephone No. 233 7101.

Belongers only need apply.

7829

TEONA SPA

Is looking for the following positions:

7822

Y A 3 B Consultanting Agency Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:

Judy Mini Bar

Waitress $6.00 per hour

Jadam Ltd.

Maintenance Man $8.00 per hour

WBC Managing Ltd.

Baggage Handler $6.00 per hour

Lessy Restaurant Waitress $6.00 per hour

Contact: 344-4540

Belongers need only apply.

Salary will commensurate with experience.

Applicants please apply to paradise.provo@gmail.com.

Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

7824

POSITION REQUIRED

HEAD CHEF The desired candidate must be a strong leader and effective communicator. Must efficiently delegate tasks to staff, pay great attention to detail, make quick decisions under pressure and be patient when dealing with staff and customers. Directly in charge of food costs and procurement, special functions, daily menu and maintaining quality standards.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Massage Therapist Esthetician Nail Technician

Salary commensurate with experience.

Contact: Debra Garland @ 243-6748

Assistant Manager and Clerk Position Requirements: • Excellent command of English language, secondary language of Spanish preferred.

• Ability to work early mornings, late nights, weekends and holidays.

• Clean police record.

• Organized detail oriented team player with excellent communication skills.

Contact: 941-5051

PAINTERS REQUIRED Applicant must have 5 years painting experience Applicant must be able to work weekends as needed Tasks are not limited to painting only Applicant will be required to assist in other areas at construction sites including cleaning up Applicants must be able to work unsupervised Salary $6.00 per hour.

Apply to Southern Construction Ltd. 649-231-6089 or fax: 649-946-4084 Application deadline is March 3rd, 2013 7801

Communicate directly with Resort GM and employees • Select, train and manage kitchen staff in the proper preparation of menu items, equipment and safety measures. Schedule employees in accordance with business activity and labour budget • Must have own tools to perform assigned duties. Know all menu items and be able to assist/train other employees. To test and develop recipes that distinguish the culinary offerings of the restaurant • Maintain compliance with government/health regulations pertaining to food storage, preparation and service • Responsible for meeting payroll budget • Work schedule is determined by the GM and normally consists of ten or more hours per day, five or more days per week

Job Requirements: • • • •

At least 3 years experience as an Executive Chef Prior experience working in the Caribbean and remote locations is a must Able to reside full time on Middle Caicos and/or provide own transportation Perform duties as necessary, eg. special orders, buffet presentations, VIP parties, weddings and promotions • Excellent culinary training skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills • Able to maintain cost controls and adhere to budgeting guidelines • Must be extremely polished and have a professional demeanour If you want to be part of this team then we want to hear from you!

CV/Resumes accepted by e-mail only by February 22nd 2013 at the latest.

Interested applicants to contact: Reservations@bhresort.com

7832

42

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Third African football title for Nigeria NIGERIA’S long wait for a major football title ended on Sunday as the “Super Eagles” beat Burkina Faso 1-0 in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Sunday Mba scored his second goal of the two-week tournament -both coincidentally coming on the day that bears his name -- as Nigeria became just the fourth team to win the continental crown three times or more.

“I’m so happy it is a dream come true. I don’t know what to say,” Mba said after the final whistle.

“We really worked hard and we were looking forward to this day and I’m so happy for this.”

Stephen Keshi became only the second man to win the title as both coach and player, having been captain at the 1994 tournament when Nigeria won for the second time -though he did not play in that final.

Burkina Faso, playing in the final for the first time, missed out on the $1.5 million first prize and the chance to represent Africa at this year’s Confederations Cup in Brazil.

Mba also scored in the quarterfinal win over tournament favorites Ivory Coast, being one of five home-based players brought into the squad by Keshi.

Keshi made big changes after

Nigeria’s captain Joseph Yobo holds the Africa Cup of Nations trophy, which had been handed to him by South African President Jacob Zuma (L) at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg.

Nigeria failed to qualify for last year’s event in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon -- a turbulent period for the national team, which was suspended from international football by President Goodluck Jonathan before world ruling body FIFA threatened to intervene.

However, the president was delighted with Sunday’s result.

“President Jonathan thanks coach Stephen Keshi and all members of the team who have worked very hard to make Nigeria the proud champions

of Africa once again after 19 years of setbacks in the competition,” his office said in a statement.

“The President also believes that having conquered Africa, the new Super Eagles can go on to achieve even greater glory at the World Cup in Brazil next year.”

Back in 1994, Nigeria was ranked fifth in the world -- the highest by any African nation.

The Super Eagles won gold at the 1996 Olympics, but have since slipped to 52nd in the rankings.

February 16 - 22, 2013

Mexico wins Caribbean series in 18 innings DOUGLAS Clark, a Springfield, Mass., native and 15-year minor league veteran playing in his third Mexican League season, hit a home run in the top of the 18th inning and Mexico’s Yaquis de Obregon beat the Dominican Republic’s Escogido Leones 4-3 to take the Caribbean Series final in a record 7-hour, 28-minute game.

This is the second Caribbean Series title in three years for the Yaquis and the seventh for Mexican teams. It was the longest Caribbean Series game in history, breaking the previous record of 6 hours, 13 minutes in 2007 when Tony Batista’s bases-loaded sacrifice fly in the 18th gave the Dominican Republic a 4-3 victory over Venezuela. The 21 pitchers used in the game also set a Caribbean Series record.

Ricardo Nanita, who has played 11 seasons in the minor leagues, took Baltimore Orioles reliever Luis Ayala deep to lead off the bottom of the ninth for the Dominican Republic and tie the game at two.

Mexico managed four hits in 13 innings before Karim Garcia led off the top of the 14th with a go-ahead

Douglas Clarke scored the crucial run in the longest Caribbean Series final ever.

solo homer. But the Dominicans tied it again in the bottom of the inning when Miguel Tejada smacked a twoout, game-tying RBI single.

Clark was a former University of Massachusetts football player picked by the San Francisco Giants in the seventh round of the 1998 draft. He played 14 games between the Giants and the Oakland Athletics before heading to Asia and then Mexico.

Oscar Pistorius faces murder charge SOUTH African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius is facing a murder charge after his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp was shot dead at his home in Pretoria.

Police confirmed that a friend of Mr Pistorius’s was killed at his home in the early hours of Thursday morning.

They said a 26-year-old man was due in court, but this has been delayed until Friday. Police do not name suspects until they appear in court.

Mr Pistorius, 26, was the first double amputee to run in the Olympics.

The precise circumstances surrounding the incident are unclear.

Some reports said that Mr Pistorius may have mistaken his girlfriend for an intruder.

But police said they were “surprised” to hear reports that the deceased had been mistaken for a burglar.

They added that there had been previous incidents at the address and described them as “allegations of a domestic nature”. Police also said that they had been interviewing witnesses and that they would oppose any bail application.

Miss Steenkamp’s publicist confirmed to the BBC that the 29-year-old model had died.

“Everyone who knew her is in tears. She was an absolute angel, the sweetest, sweetest human being, a kind human being,” Sarit Tomlinson said.

Four out of India’s total 24 Olympic medals are from wrestling.

India wrestlers shocked at Olympics move to drop sport Oscar Pistorius and his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp have had previous “domestic altercations” according to police.

The news that Mr Pistorius may have killed his girlfriend will shock the country as the athlete is regarded as one of South Africa’s national icons, reports the BBC’s Peter Biles from Cape Town.

‘FATALLY WOUNDED’ The incident is said to have taken place between 04:00 and 05:00 local time (02:00-03:00 GMT).

A police statement said that a woman was “fatally wounded” in the early hours of Thursday morning at a home a high-security compound in the Boschkop area of the capital.

The woman had been wounded in her head and upper body. Paramedics were at the house when police arrived, but she died at the scene. A

9mm pistol was recovered.

The athlete’s home is in the secure up-market Silver Woods gated compound on the outskirts of Pretoria.

Known as the “blade runner”, Mr Pistorius races wearing carbon fibre prosthetic blades after he was born without a fibula in both legs and had his legs amputated below the knee before his first birthday.

He reached the 400m semi-finals in the London 2012 Olympics. At the Paralympics he won silver in the T44 200m, gold in the 4x100 relay and gold in the T44 400m, setting a Paralympic record.

For years he dominated in his category at successive Paralympic Games. (BBC)

INDIA’S wrestlers have expressed shock at the recommendation of International Olympic Committee (IOC) that the sport be dropped from the 2020 Games.

Four out of India’s 24 Olympic medals are from wrestling. Wrestling also gave India its first individual Olympic medal in 1952.

Two of India’s six medals at the 2012 London Olympics were won by wrestlers.

The IOC recommended its dismissal after assessing the performance of all 26 sports at the London Games.

There is a slim chance that wrestling may win a reprieve when the IOC meets in September to ratify its choice.

Correspondents say the decision will come as a big blow to Indian wrestlers who have been making a mark internationally.

“It’s a huge setback. I can’t believe that IOC can take such a harsh decision about one of the oldest Olympic sports,” Sushil Kumar, who has won two medals at Olympics, was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times newspaper.

“At the Beijing Olympic Games, my aim was to win a medal and I succeeded. For London, my target was gold, but I could manage a silver.

So I am determined to make up for the London loss at Rio [games].”

Senior wrestling official Raj Singh said the recommendation was a “huge loss for the country”.

“But I am sure that the international wrestling body will not let the sport be shown the door from the Olympics,” he said.

Senior coach Yashvir told The Indian Express that young wrestlers at his camp were stunned by the news.

February 16 - 22, 2013

Sports National

WIV Provo Premier League:

Cheshire Hall undefeated after win against Rozo DEFENDING champions Cheshire Hall established their dominance in the WIV Provo Premier League with a 5-1 win over newcomer Rozo on Tuesday night.

The win, their second in two games, have left them as the only undefeated side of the league.

After Rozo played their first two games undefeated, this clash looked like a tussle, but the defending champs did not allow such.

In a frantic, competitive but skilful game, Fred Dorvil opened the scoring for Cheshire Hall followed by a Nickenson Agelus penalty before half time for the same side. Both teams were still in it as the second half began with both threatening at times, but Reynaldo Astins scoring for Cheshire Hall early in the second half to effectively kill the game.

Fritz Gerald Nonvius pulled one back for Rozo but Derilien and Cumberland each slotted later on as Rozo tired.

Rozo had won a gruelling battle against the Academy team on Saturday last. That match ended 3-2.

The Academy were well organised and worked very hard and this paid off with an even game until Fritz Gerald Noncent notched his first goal after eight minutes. Gianni Ascani and Rodney Davilmar were the older heads at the back for the Academy and with their new player Jensen Joseph who is a threat up front they kept Rozo at bay and then equalised through Michael Laird, after half an hour, following a

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

deceiving cross that was put in the net by the Rozo goalkeeper. This injected the Academy with confidence and they came out of the traps quickly in the second half and went ahead after an own goal caused by their pressure. The game was even for some time and the Academy held their lead and with Rozo only having one substitute, they would have hoped to get a win. However, for the second week running, the youthful Jeanlis Job again starred for Rozo, firstly by being on hand to finish from close in after an unfortunate dropped shot by the Academy keeper and then to finish a mazy run with a great finish to win the game in the 89th minute.

Also on Saturday the SWA Sharks recorded their first win in this year’s league. The Sharks took on the Teachers and it was generally a competitive game, but Sharks created more chances and eventually won 3-1.

The Teachers went ahead against the run of play in the 24th minute with Chris O’Neil capitalising on a wayward throw from the Sharks’ keeper. The Sharks continued to patiently create the play but squandered a number of cast iron chances until Courtney Tain equalised in the 37th minute with a good goal.

Barrington Somers who entered in the second half scored a brace to effectively kill the game with Richie Lock providing a superb left footed cross for the third Shark’s goal.

On Saturday the Sharks take on the Academy team.

ICC Americas Division 2 Championship:

St. Ange captures most wickets – but TCI below standard at international tournament DAMIAN St. Ange captured the most wickets at the ICC Americas Division 2 Championship, but his team, Turks and Caicos Islands finished last in the five-team tournament recently in the Bahamas.

The home team, the Bahamas, played undefeated to guarantee their promotion to the ICC Americas Division 1 Championship in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. At the Division 1 Championship, the top two teams will get the opportunity to represent the Americas Region at the ICC World T20 Qualifier scheduled for later in 2013.

After winning their opening clash, a historical first win over Panama, the TCI stumbled to lose three consecutive games.

Manager Michael Pereira said that the side squandered their opportunities to win. “We had Belize 56 for 6 and lost the game. Against Argentina we dismissed them for a getable total and did not apply ourselves and were bowled out and in the match against the Bahamas the overs were reduced and we allow

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BATTING PROBLEMS In Suriname Garvin Bruno topped the batting with the runs. This year only two batsmen made the top 10

had most TCI with

CONSISTENT Not only did Ange pace his way to a tournament high nine wickets, but he amassed 77 runs. He also played a crucial supporting innings (scoring 16 unbeaten runs in 12 balls) to John in the opening win.

Mark Henry also did some damage with the new ball to finish sixth in the ratings with six wickets.

TCI’s skipper Ancell Williams finished with two wickets and two runs in the tournament.

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Consequently, a legal action will be taken for false representation, impersonating and illegality.

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them to get a huge total.”

Pereira added that the TCI had defeated the Bahamas and Belize last year in Suriname.

He was also critical of the team’s approach to fielding.

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Damian St. Ange finished with the most wickets at this year’s tournament.

Nuwan Bodhinayake at a distance number six and Gareth Butler tied at number 9. The pair opened the batting and was able to amass 95 and 84 runs respectively.

On numerous occasions they played themselves in, but no other batsman was able to play a winner’s inning after Sabuton John belted 41 runs in 15 balls to win a man-ofthe-match award against Panama.

Seasoned local batsmen such as Christopher McFarlane, Earl Henry and Ira Baptiste, to name a few, batted below par. Even Bruno admitted that he preformed below expectation. His 55 runs total and four wickets were however in the top five performances in both batting (fifth) and bowling (third) for the TCI.

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Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

PABA All-Star Weekend:

West defeat East

EHLO Seymour scored 24 points and grabbed six boards to lead the Senior West team to victory over the Senior East team during last weekend’s Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) AllStar Weekend.

Seymour earned the MVP award for his performance in a game that ended 80-71 in favour of his side.

Michael Taylor also played his part for the West with 14 points and four boards, while Kirk Adams and Kino Williams led the way for the East with 15 points each.

INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT All Star Weekend tipped off on Friday night with an international tournament, involving the TCI, Haiti, DR and the Bahamas.

In round one Haiti defeated DR 56-46, while the Bahamas got past the TCI 60-58 in the second round before Haiti edged out the Bahamas 39-38 in a low scoring final.

Furthermore on Friday Deangelo Hanna won the 2013 three point shootout.

On Saturday night the High School All-Star clash also ended with the West defeating the East (48-44) while Pastors blew away Coaches 47-21, Fortis TCI defeated Telecommunications 38-19 and the British West Indies Collegiate (BWIC) (A) team played undefeated in a schools’ competition.

Individual winners included

South Caicos HOPE makes a presentation to the Marjorie Basden High School softball team.

The West defeated the East by nine points in the main clash of the 2013 PABA All-Star Weekend.

The Under-12 winning team and winners of the free throw and three-point shootout with Mrs. Connolly.

Willican Seymour of CHHS who won the 2013 U-12 free throw competition and CJ Mills of BWIC who won the U-12 three-point shootout.

Ello Joseph of CHHS won the 2013 High School Skills

Competition.

In a release the PABA expressed thanks to players, fans, coaches, Mrs. Josephine Connolly of KIA Motors, RTC, TCI Promotions and all those who made All Star 2013 such a huge success.

Marjorie Basden Class of 95 gives back MEMBERS of the Marjorie Basden High School, Class of 95, have united under one banner to lend aid to their beloved home. Known as South Caicos HOPE, which is their abbreviated motto: “Helping Our People Excel”, the group recently supplied the Marjorie Basden High School with over $1500 in hot meals for the school’s softball team, the Lady Bugs. The meals were for the players during their four-day stay in Providenciales for the 2013 Inter High Schools’ Softball Tournament.

The current president of HOPE is Mr. Alvin Parker Jr. In a recent interview he gave sentimental insight into the purpose of and drive behind the organisation.

“We are a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping the community of South Caicos.

HOPE is a compassionate foundation comprised of young professionals, all of whom are graduates of Marjorie Basden High School. It’s our collective desire

to use our skills, talents and resources to the benefit of the South Caicos community. It’s about assisting in any way we can and improving the community as a whole.”

“Someone paved the way for all of us either directly or indirectly. It is our moral duty to do the same for someone else. Even if you’re not able to organise a group of individuals, you alone can make the difference in another person life,” reflected Parker.

South Caicos HOPE’s Executive Board Members are: President Mr. Alvin Parker, Vice President Mrs. Sabrina Hamilton, Community Liaison Officer: Mr. JovardGlinton, Secretary: Mr. Tomiko Glinton, Treasurer: Mr. Garvin Thomas, Assistant Treasurer: Mrs. Denelta.

Green, Head of Fundraising: Ms. Thronequa Clare.

The Lady Bugs were dethroned by the Clement Howell High School of Providenciales in the championship clash.

Josh for Sports

Highlighting some track and field female legends of the TCI the track with their blazing speed.

They both represented us at the Florida Relays and CARIFTA Games in 1978 as sprinters.

– Part two EDITH (BEEN) SKIPPINGS Edith is the first person in history to win a medal for the TCI at the international level. She won bronze in the 400M at the Florida Relays in 1978. Currently, she is president of the TCAAA. Ms. Georgina Ingham Georgina is the mother of former super sprinter/national sprinting champion Rosalie Ingram. She was among the founders of the TCAAA and acted as chaperone for the first national team in 1978.

Beatrice (Delancy) Robinson This stalwart was the cream-ofthe-crop when it came to middle and long distance running.

Actually she could have beaten 90% of the male students in the TCI back in 1978 in distances of 1500M-10 000M. She represented us at the Florida Relays, CARIFTA

By Joshua Gardiner Games, Normanly Games and the Commonwealth Games—all in 1978.

BERTHA AND BRENDA BELL These two sisters resided in North Caicos where they were schooled at the then junior high. I had them transferred to the high school in Grand Turk on government scholarships. In GT they terrorised

KATE QUELCH This young lady, even though she did not make the team in 1978, worked tirelessly as a sprinter. She was the essence of dedication. She pushed the rest to surpass their best and she could not be left out of this list of contributors.

CORINA CAPRON (THE GOLDEN GIRL) In 1978 I had 13-year-old Corina transferred to GT High School from Junior High in North Caicos. She was a speed ball of lightening as she won the first ever international gold medal in track and field for the TCI (gold in the 100M at the Florida relays in the high school junior division). Yes she is a Florida Relays champion. She is from Provo.

JUDITH HANDFIELD Judith ran the 800 and just missed out on a medal at the Florida Relays.

She also ran the same event at the 78 CARIFTA Games. She went to high school in GT, but was from North Caicos.

LOUANNE HIGGS Louanne was still in primary school in South Caicos when I had her transferred to primary school in GT as part of the CARIFTA squad as a sprinter/400M. She however lacked focus and did not make the team.

CHARMINE WILLIAMS Charmaine ‘Candy’ Williams could beat every female in the TCI from 100-1500 metres. She was from North Caicos. In two weeks I coached Candy to knock out 28 seconds off her 800M. As a result she went to Osaka, Japan to represent us in the Junior World Championships in 1990-2.

ROSALIE INGHAM Rosalie overthrew Williams at the Nationals in GT to take over as sprints queen.

It may amaze you, my readers, but I coached each and every one of the female athletes mentioned in this article and because of their hard work, track and field has been sustained up until today.

They have persevered where the male athletes have long given up.

In closing, respect, honour and mention must be given to the contribution of Hon Lillian Boyce who brought CARIFTA here. She was my student in 1977-8. If they had pursued logic and not emotions, we could have won at least five medals in 2007: The abandoned the goose that laid the golden egg—that’s me. So long, until next time.

February 16 - 22, 2013

Sports National

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Otuonye breaks indoor 400M record in first try – Impressive in triple jump debut

Angelo Garland was instrumental in Munro College breaking the Milo Western Relays record.

LONG jump records are not enough for Ifeanyi Otuonye. He has now shown his diversity by running the 400M indoor race for the first time and at national record pace: 48.82 seconds.

The Kansas State University student admitted he was nervous when he ran the race. “In Jamaica (at Munro College) I never ran an open 400, just 4X400s relays. So I was kind of anxious of how it would have been.”

He said he was only aware of the record after Coach Alvirto Smith informed him.

The previous record was held by Darius Forbes, who achieved 49.12s in May of 2006.

Otuonye had some difficulties at the Don Kirby Collegiate Invite Meet which was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“It was really hard competing at the meet because the city in which the track was located was about 5000 feet above sea level. The altitude was really tough to run in. It was hard to breath and stuff, and I haven’t stopped coughing since I left.”

TRIPLE JUMP DEBUT Outonye, who broke the national long jump record five consecutive times; three of which happened in

Ifeanyi Otuonye, who has broken the national long jump record five times, is now the 400M indoor record holder.

the last few weeks, also took part in the triple jump event for the first time.

Using a 12 step approach to the board, he sailed to 14.51M in his first attempt. He then fouled his other two attempts before his coach told him that it was enough. His lone successful jump has however placed him fourth in the Big 12 Conference (originally 12 grouped colleges, now 10).

“My coach wanted to see how I’ll handle a short approach and how far I’ll jump using it before trying to master the 16 step approach. I’m thinking that if I’m fourth with a short approach, imagine if I master the event and use a full approach?”

Otuonye might triple jump at the Big 12 Indoor Championships on

February 22nd and 23rd.

A MAN’S EVENT Otuonye, who started as a high jumper before making the switch to long jump, said that the triple jump is a difficult event.

“I have to say that the triple jump is not a boys’ event. It really takes a toll on your body and it is really tasking. It’s similar to long jump, but really different at the same time.”

Coupled with the altitude and the new events Otuonye said he is happy that he did not sustain any injuries.

“I’m just thankful to God that I didn’t get any injuries or anything like that because the goal for this year is to stay healthy—with that, the star is the limit.”

TCI’s IAAF World Junior 200M gold medallist, Delano Williams, being interviewed by Jamaica Observer’s Paul Reid.

Strikers become youngest WFL champs

Milo Western Relays:

THE AFC Strikers have become the youngest team to win the Women’s Football League (WFL). The girls, whose ages range between 10-16 years, with an average age of about 13.5, have emerged victorious although there is one game left to play in the prestigious tournament.

Under the tutelage of Technical Director of the TCIFA Matthew Green, the youngsters have moved from not winning a single game last season to dominating this time round.

Green said the girls worked hard and focused on their development in the game. ““They have worked hard to win the league and they thoroughly deserve it. Last year they lost every game, so it just proves what you can do if you make a strong commitment to the game. This team will only get better and better as years go on. They are already leading the way in terms of technique and tactical understanding; it is hard to believe that such a young team can play in such a mature and experienced manner.”

There were only a few changes from last year’s team. This champion

Williams and Garland lead Munro to record breaking 4X400M – World champion honoured in rare feat TCI athletes Delano Williams and Angelo Garland helped their high school Munro College break a fiveyear 4X400M record when they competed at last weekend’s Milo Western Relays.

With Williams anchoring, the Jamaican school raced to 3:13.12 minutes, which eclipsed the 3:15.01 minutes from 2008.

Garland, who has ran well this season, split 48.4s while the 200M Junior World Champion, Williams, ran 46.5 seconds.

Williams, whose best 400M split is 45.4s which he achieved at Penn Relays last year, was not overly

excited about his performance.

“I felt really heavy in the race because I haven’t been doing any speed work, so it showed in the race.

But other than that it’s a good start to actually see where I am.”

HONOURED Williams also became the first international athlete to be honoured at the Milo Western Relays. He received the Young Gleaner award for his outstanding 2012 season.

Both youngsters are preparing for the Western Championships this weekend.

The young Strikers’ captain Kadine Delphine has led from the front in her team’s Cinderella story.

side even lost Jenny Fluerenvil who moved to GT and Jachelle Gardiner, who broke her leg playing another sport.

In the penultimate week of play the Strikers drew 0-0 with nemesis and defending champions, Netrockers

before defeating the Revolution FC 7-0 to win the title.

Sisters Yarielca and Yarileny De La Cruz scored doubles while team captain Kadine Delphin, Guerline Hall and Shinaydine Pluviose netted the other goals.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013

February 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 16 - 22, 2013