Weekly News Mike seeks Volume 29 | No. 08 | February 21 - 27, 2015
Price $1.00
Turks and Caicos
FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT:
tcnews@tciway.tc
the national newspaper of the turks and caicos islands
ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com
to chair PNP Looking out for the people of the Islands while at the same time positioning his party to win the 2016 general elections, are Michael Misick's reasons for contesting the chairmanship of the ruling PAGE 5 Progressive National Party (PNP) this April.
PAGE 8 Four captured following sloop arrival
Premier PAGE 4 demands businesses give jobs to locals
Tuesday’s arrival (left) sits alongside a larger Haitian sloop in South Dock
No recusal and no appeal 4 PAGE
Review of FSC reveals few failings PAGE 7
2
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
3
4
NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
No recusal and no appeal BY DELANA ISLES FOLLOWING Friday’s decision not to recuse (disqualify) himself from the corruption trial, Justice Paul Harrison then refused to entertain a defence application for leave to appeal his decision. The application for leave was made by former Premier Michael Misick’s local attorney, Beryn Duncanson, while the other defendants took a neutral position on the issue of appeal. In deciding to stay on for the trial, Harrison pointed out that the arguments put forward by the defence counsels were not sufficient for him to exit the case. He further pointed out that the defendants have a right to appeal his decision at the end of the trial but that he will not entertain any application for an appeal right now. At the centre of the recusal application were statements made by the judge in his capacity as chairman of an anti-corruption (integrity) commission in Jamaica, to which he was appointed on December 28, 2011. Harrison reportedly told a Jamaican select committee that it is his personal view that gifts to parliamentarians should be classified by parliament as “presumptively unlawful”. The lawyers argued that to a fair minded observer Harrison’s statements throw into question his impartiality in his role as judge of a trial where the defendants include former Government officials and others accused of corruption. However, in his decision on
Justice Paul Harrison
Friday, the judge noted that when talking about the receipt of gifts he would have to apply the relevant rules and laws that exist in the Turks and Caicos Islands, adding that in the TCI gifts are not presumptively unlawful. In this instance, Harrison was speaking directly to the arguments put forward by the lawyer for Lisa Hall, Douglas Leys QC. Dismissing the arguments by Queen’s Counsel, Jerome Lynch for McAllister Hanchell - the judge said that his appointment to the Jamaican commission was widely known in Jamaica and the TCI as it was reported by the newspapers in both countries. He said there is no basis to contend that there was no knowledge. The judge added that being chairman of the Integrity Commission is not by itself without mores, neither is it an indication of
Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Bird - News Editor Delana Isles - Senior Reporter Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1
partiality or bias by concurrently being the judge in this case. He said an informed observer in possession of all the facts and circumstances could not conclude that his statement to the Jamaica committee is an indication of bias. He concluded that the Padgett sentencing, as referred to by Duncanson, has no relevance as it was comprehensively dealt with at the Court of Appeal. Meanwhile, in his presentation to the court on the issue of appeal, Special Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell for the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) said that the application is an attempt by Misick to add to the delay of the trial. He further called it vexatious. “The right to appeal is not to be abused by bringing vexatious applications,” Mitchell told the court. He stated that the action of the defendants claiming that their constitutional rights are being infringed with every ruling in the case is an attack on the tribunal before conviction. The SIPT lawyer echoed the judge’s earlier sentiments that the defendants still have the right to appeal at the end of the trial if they are convicted. The defendants had previously won a decision to have the trial delayed until a petition to the Privy Council is heard and determined. The Privy Council is set to deliberate on the independence and impartiality of the judicial tribunal hopefully by June this year, the court heard on Friday. Another petition to the council deals with the Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold Justice Harrison’s judgement last year that the ten defendants should be tried by a judge without a jury. Harrison’s appointment by Governor Peter Beckingham in November 2014 for an indefinite period, starting from January 2015, is being heard before Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale on Friday, March 27.
February 21-27, 2015
Premier demands businesses give jobs to locals PREMIER Rufus Ewing has put business operators on notice that the Government will not tolerate them overlooking unemployed Islanders. “This practice of overlooking my people stops here and it will no longer be business as usual. “Moving forward, I will expect your efforts to employ, train, retain, promote and pay Turks and Caicos Islanders to be genuine, earnest, strategic and meaningful, and this expectation applies to all businesses, public, private and statutory.” The Premier made these statements on Thursday (February 19) in an address to the nation. He stated that with the major economic growth and development of the Islands, Turks and Caicos Islanders must be in the forefront as beneficiaries and empowered to rise to the upper echelons of businesses within their own country. Pointing to the unprecedented growth in tourists arrivals in recent years – 1.4 million in 2014 and one million in 2013 – and the major boosts in Government revenue last year, Ewing said these indicators speak well of the level of economic growth in the TCI. “However, I am still not satisfied that the level of economic growth is being felt sufficiently at the level of the local business community and the average Turks and Caicos Islander,” he added. Even though there has been a reduction in unemployment since the Government took office, there is still vast underemployment and many qualified willing and capable Islanders are still without jobs, he said. He added that many of those employed are not in positions relative
Premier Rufus Ewing
to their level of qualifications, expertise and experience, and that this is unsatisfactory. The Premier called on the tourism and hospitality sector and hoteliers to give Islanders opportunities for meaningful gainful employment. He also called on the Immigration and Labour Departments to continue stepping up their efforts and enforce policies that will ensure that Islanders are given first priority and fair opportunities for employment in the labour market. “I will pause to recognise the efforts of those businesses in the hospitality and allied industries that continue to employ and train Turks and Caicos Islanders. “And to them I would say well done and don’t stop there, for there is more to be done to ensure that Turks and Caicos Islanders employed within your establishments receive fair opportunities for promotions and fair compensation. “Comparative to that which any foreign worker would have otherwise received had they been employed in those positions.”
December 1 new date for start of corruption trial
ONCE again the trial of former Premier Michael Misick and nine others has been scheduled to start on December 1. The new date was announced on Friday (February 13) before trial judge Paul Harrison by Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT). All of the lawyers and the judge were in agreement with the date. He said that they will be adopting last year’s approach whereby the SIPT would present its case for two weeks in December then the trial will be adjourned until January 18, 2016 for continuation.
Mitchell also told the court that the Privy Council will possibly meet sometime in early May to hear the two appeals and will hopefully deliver the judgement sometime in early June. The pre-trial hearing and Misick’s specialty arguments will subsequently be held on June 30. The other defendants are Floyd Hall, McAllister Hanchell, Lillian Boyce, Jeffrey Hall, Clayton Greene, Thomas ‘Chal’ Misick, Lisa Hall, Melbourne Wilson and Earlson Robinson. On May 27, 2014, they all pleaded not guilty to the various corruption related offences before Justice Harrison.
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS
5
Michael Misick to contest the PNP chairmanship
BY DELANA ISLES
LOOKING out for the people of the Islands while at the same time positioning his party to win the 2016 general elections, are Michael Misick's reasons for contesting the chairmanship of the ruling Progressive National Party (PNP) this April. The former Premier made the announcement on Wednesday (February 18) during a televised local programme (Average Joe). “The island is lacking some excitement,” Misick told the Weekly News while confirming his intentions on Thursday. “My position is that I’m seeking the chairmanship of the party, if the party so wishes my services, so I am offering my services to the party, not that I know of anyone else who is contesting it,” he stated. The current PNP national chairman is Trevor Cooke and he has served in the position since June 2012. This publication confirmed with Cooke on Thursday that the PNP convention and election will be held on April 24, 25 and 26 in Providenciales. The chairman of the party is the person responsible for running the day to day apparatus of the party, helping to formulate party policy and convening national executive meetings. That person also liaises with the people and the Government to ensure that party policy is being implemented if they hold the Government. Asked if he feels that not enough is being done to ensure that these policies are being met, Misick said that they are not being met to the extent that they should. He feels that there has been a disconnect between the party and the Government in recent years. “The party and the Government are one and the same in the sense that the candidates of the Government have to come back to the party to get elected and the way to get re-elected is to keep your promises to the electors.” He added: “So if you’re disconnected from the party for all of the term that you’re in Government, then you’re disconnected from the party and that means that you’re disconnected from the electorate.
Michael Misick throws his hat in the ring for PNP chairmanship this April
“There is a direct correlation between the party, the electorate and the Government.” The former Premier and PNP leader stated that if the Government were to continue on the path they are on right now, then it would be impossible for the party to win the next elections. “And so I want to offer my services to the party to help them coordinate to ensure that the Government is carrying out party policy and to help them formulate other polices that are in-synch with the wishes of the people.” He said he particularly wants to ensure that manifesto promises are being honoured. “Going into an election the party chairman also helps in laying the strategy and coordinating the various island councils,” Misick stated, adding that he is ready and able to offer help in this regard. Asked about any aspirations of recapturing the leadership of the party, he noted that his sole focus right now is on helping the party to be in a position to get re-elected in 2016. “Who leads the party into the next elections is ultimately up to the party, but if you have a party that is not in a position or does not put itself in a position to win then it doesn’t matter who leads it. “So the first step is to grab hold of the party machinery and to ensure that the Government is implementing and formulating policies that represent the wishes of the Turks and Caicos people and to continue that great tradition of PNP being a progressive party that look out for the interest of
PNP chairman Trevor Cooke
people in general.” He firmly reiterated that his objective is put the party in a position to be able to win the next elections. He said to be able to arrive at that goal, much work is yet to be done and somebody has to do the work. “I am saying that it is my view and the views of countless PNPs that the work is not now being done and help is needed. So I am offering my help.”
About the leadership challenge, he said: “Next year will deal with itself, but I won’t rule anything out.” When contacted by this publication for comment on Misick’s challenge to his position, the PNP national chairman said that while he has not received a formal indication from Misick, he is aware of his intention to contest the post. Cooke said he does not know if the Government is aware of it, but he is personally aware. He added that if [when] Misick puts his name up then, if he, Cooke, is so inclined to do the same then he will. “I think either one of us would be good choice to lead the party into elections next year,” the chairman said. Cooke noted that Misick has a lot of experience to contribute to the party and that he has put in a lot of work over the years. Cooke further clarified that he is not speaking as chairman of the PNP in these statements, but he is doing
so on a personal basis. Misick was first elected to the Legislative Council in 1991, when he became Minister of Tourism, Transportation and Communications. He was re-elected in 1995. In March 2002 he was elected leader of the then opposition PNP, succeeding his brother Charles Washington Misick. Misick also served as Chief Minister of the TCI from August 15, 2003 to August 9, 2006 and was the first Premier of the Islands from August 9, 2006 to March 23, 2009. On December 15, 2008, he was asked to step down by some members of his party following allegations of corruption by a foreign affairs select committee of the British parliament. He was subsequently charged and is currently before the court to answer to several counts of corruption related offences committed during his terms in office. He has since pleaded not guilty to all charges.
PDM looking forward to Gov’t’s ‘elections budget’ this April BY DELANA ISLES THE PEOPLE’S Democratic Movement (PDM) has high hopes for the 2015/2016 budget, even as party leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson believes it is nothing more than an “elections budget”. The Opposition Leader’s comments came after the Government’s recent boast of new jobs, a construction boom and better infrastructure, all in the new financial year’s budgetary provisions. These provisions, according to Finance Minister Washington Misick earlier this month, will come to fruition due to the great performance of the economy – particularly the tourism sector – in recent times. In an interview with the Weekly News on Thursday (February 19), Cartwright Robinson stated that the
country has been in a good position financially for quite some time. She added that it is just that the Government’s priorities are different from what the people who elected them and the general populace expect. The party leader said the Government inherited an economy that was already stabilising and their claim of a booming surplus and economy is because of tourism. “And I don’t know that there has been any major shift or change in their marketing, but I do know we have been benefitting from longer winters down here, and that I am grateful for.” She added that even when the Government shrunk the economy with their taxes, there was still money in the coffers to do some of the things the people expected of them.
“But what the Government did was add a completely different timetable and priority list from the people and the PDM. “Now that it’s coming to elections time and I’m sure the people will see, you will see the treasury will become a campaign purse and it’s nothing short of that,” the party leader pointed out. She criticised the Government for boasting about a surplus when the country is paying so much in fuel tax, roads are in the worse condition ever, and most of the critical revenue collection departments are without the resources to maximise their potential. “We hope that we see a budget that we have been asking for for years and that is one which has people as its priority. “We actually expect we will see it in this budget.”
6
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
Debt repayment IN 2011 the UK government provided a $260 million loan guarantee which allowed the TCI Government to get loans at a low interest rate in order to pay outstanding debts. This deal comes to an end in 2016 but “lenders are knocking themselves over, jockeying for position, putting themselves in line to refinance whatever debt that is left,” according to Minister of Finance Washington Misick. What are you views on this?
Help us
Mr Misick, you would help us and our country if you arrange the private lenders to offer home owners lower interest rates to refinance their homes. That would be a great relief for us. The banks at home have very high interest rates.
Regain power
The Turks and Caicos Islands people are showing an unusual degree of resilience to weather this storm, suffer the austerity, lose rights, powers, opportunities, constitutional loss, taking of monies by higher taxes and no reasons given. While some credit may go to the Minister of Finance for this achievement the real credit and praise must go to almighty God and the eternal vigilance of the TCI people for weathering this storm so well. The Minister of Finance may go into former PDM Chief Minister, Hon Derek Taylor’s mode to refuse future unneeded debt. The TCI must remember that this debt was imposed upon us. These new lenders must not seek to lead the TCI Government astray again. Most businesses who carried no debt during the recession of the interim government
weathered the downturn well. This is no time to make the same mistakes again. It is time for the Government to create a workable level of fiscal discipline, remove the Chief Financial Officer from the constitution and have the powers of the office of the Minister of Finance fully restored. The minister must convene a town hall meeting, a series for this watershed moment, so that the people can determine what that they want such as full restoration of scholarship funding, schools etc and a removal of the albatross hospital contract.
Extension please
The nation of the Turks and Caicos Islands has been very responsible in repaying this loan. We should ask that if it is not fully repaid by this date the UK government in its mercy extends the deadline for a few more years so that we can pay it off in full, because the record shows that these funds were borrowed at a very attractive rate.
No man’s land
Let us first get the real figures for this loan! Is it the original $260 million or the unused $90 that the Minister of Finance used as base
when he was trying to snow-ball us with the payroll tax? Either number, who will really believe them? Come 2016 when new elections are held, nobody knows what will happen. Will it be the PNP again - onwards to independence, and no way of getting repaid if the loans are deemed nationalized - or will it be the PDM who is still feeling their way or learning to be included or engaged? Lenders are smart people and cannot be second-guessed as in past times. The country needs a few good, experienced, educated and honest leaders, and absent such, the TCI will continue to a no man’s land for the likes of the face of the PNP. Let us get the real figures first for this loan and then start negotiating with real bankers!
No trust
This is the same story Washington Misick released right after he was elected. It did not happen and he stayed with the British arranged loan. The PNP claims they have $60 million in surplus. This will have to pay down a portion of Misick’s party’s debts. The people believed in Washington’s TCI Bank. They bought stock and 4,000 families deposited funds. He convinced the NIB to deposit millions in his bank. The last $5 million deposited when his friends were tipped off by someone unknown and withdrew the entire amount leaving the ordinary folks holding the bag. Now we expected to believe him again?
No independence
Out of one side of their mouth this Government agrees to refinance the remaining PNP millions in debt and pay a higher interest giving us millions more to pay off. Then out of the other side they talk independence. What bank will loan money to a TCI threatening to go independent during the loans
term under this Government and this Finance Minister?
Oppressive
This is all good news both for the UK and the potential lenders but it has to be bad news for the local Government who will be expected to face the electorate about the same time. How can a caring Government be boasting about this kind of oppression labelled ‘achievement,’ when there are inadequate spaces in schools, little or no basic supplies in several Government departments for employees to work with, no investment in social services and the most vulnerable are dying by the wayside. How can one boast about this when it came about by oppressive and in some cases unconstitutional levying of taxes imposed upon the backs of poor struggling families, many now have lost their homes to local banks and loan sharks because they had to make a decision as whether to feed their families to keep them alive or to pay the banks. Who won in all of this? The Foreign and Commonwealth Office, politicians, banks, the conductor and the UK Department for International Development. Who lost? The people who will, come 2016, reward these same politicians with another term in office for a job well done. Wata say, give us some more good news by taking the hospital contract off our backs and let live again with the clinics in Blue Hills and build one in the Bight and Five Cays with say $10 million of the premium due to InterHealth Canada.
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
Minimum wage raised by 25% GOVERNOR Peter Beckingham has been advised by Cabinet to issue an order under the Employment Ordinance increasing the statutory national minimum wage rate by 25 percent effective April 1. The current minimum wage is $5, and with the increase ($1.25) that figure will be $6.25. The announcement was made via a post Cabinet press release on Thursday (February 19), following the meeting on Wednesday in Providenciales. Beckingham was also advised to approve the Children (Care and Adoption) Bill 2014, Domestic Violence Bill 2014 and the Family Law (Guardianship, Custody and Access to Children) Bill for
introduction at the next sitting of the House of Assembly. His approval has also been sought for the Domestic Financial Services Sales Tax (Amendment) Bill 2015 for introduction at the next sitting of the House. This bill limits the imposition of the tax to outgoing money transfers only and increases the rate of tax to 12 percent. He is also set to approve a memorandum of understanding with the Cooper Jack Development relating to the construction of a new hotel resort and residential development on Cooper Jack Bay, Providenciales. He has since approved a letter of understanding with the Carnival
Corporation outlining procedural matters for the administration of the Infrastructure Fund; as well as the Animal Health (Standards for Management of Bottlenose Dolphins) Regulations. He is further advised to approve the supporting documents and forms developed to facilitate the administration of the Governments Investor Permanent Residence Certificate (PRC) policy. Cabinet noted the recommendations of the Procurement Board on the award of the following contracts - Consultancy (Investment Promotion Expert) for the TCI Government and the Business Reform Strategy and Refurbishment Works to the Morgue Building,
Grand Turk. The appointment of Alden Durham to the board of directors of the Turks and Caicos Islands Ports Authority was approved by Cabinet on Wednesday. Durham will fill the membership position left vacant on the resignation of Desmond Wilson. Cabinet also approved the reappointment of the following members to the National Honours and Awards Committee; Dr Linda Williams (Chairman), Agnes Swann (member), Karen Missick (member), Conrad Howell (member), William Clare (member), Llewlyn Handfield (member) and Oneal Delancy (member). Meanwhile at a teleconference
meeting of Cabinet on February 9, the Governor was advised to approve a cable route survey to MONET Cabling to conduct a cable route survey within the exclusive Fishing Zone (FZ) to the TCI. Cabinet also advised the Governor to approve a lease to Toscana for an extension of the accreted land comprising of a total of 0.68 acres, noting that terms and conditions would apply. The Governor was further advised to approve a maintenance dredging licence to Turtle Cove Marina for maintenance dredging of the entrance to the Turtle Cove marina, noting that the licence was being approved in accordance with the current provisions of the law as amended.
February 21-27, 2015
NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
7
Review of FSC reveals few failings – Chair expresses delight at “exceptional” report By Rebecca Bird BETTER communication with the Government, more staff and an increased online presence are on the cards for the country’s financial regulator. The recommendations came following an independent investigation into the Financial Service Commission (FSC) which was commissioned by the Governor’s Office. Steve Johnson, a former Treasury official and adviser to the overseas territories, visited from the UK to conduct the week-long review in
January. And on Tuesday, February 10, Governor Peter Beckingham presented the final report to FSC chairman Sir Eroll Allen and director Kevin Higgins. An executive summary of the review explained that the commission had been on a “long journey of development”. “The FSC’s board, management and staff deserve credit for what has been achieved. But there is still work to be done, and change [is] necessary,” it read. Beckingham said he was grateful to Johnson for conducting the thorough
PDM to host 40th anniversary in Grand Turk this June ON JUNE 4 to 7, the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) will be hosting its 40th year in existence in the nation’s capital, Grand Turk. A press statement from the party on Thursday (February 19) promised a number of activities to commemorate the momentous day, details of which will be released within the next few weeks. This convention will include the anniversary date of the junkanoo club incident and the party will ensure that those unsung heroes are on hand to be celebrated, the release read. “We are so happy that in our 40th year, the majority of those active participants are alive and those that are alive will be allowed to share accounts of their involvement,” the party said. There was a promise at the last convention to increase the PDM’s presence around the Islands by travelling to the various Islands to visit its base and the people there this year. A full schedule of the travels included stops and worshipping with different congregations. This began in Middle Caicos with the party leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, all island candidate Derek Taylor, seat caretaker for Middle and North Caicos Ashwood Forbes and the second vice chairman Patricia Eke. On January 24, PDM representatives visited with residents in all the settlements. The release stated that the party will continue its visits in Conch Bar and then onto North Caicos.
In February, visits were made to party stalwarts in the Backsalina area of Grand Turk and people were thanked for their support over the 40 years. Grand Turk South representative, Edwin Astwood is quoted in the release expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to meet with party members. “It is always a pleasure to hear from these stalwarts and fighters. It reminds us of the great people on whose shoulders we stand.” Deputy Party Leader Sean Astwood, expressed similar sentiments: “I am encouraged by the words of encouragement given to us as young people who want to make a difference and to serve. “We remain committed to the cause for which this great party was formed and we will forge ahead.” Party Leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said that the initiative is also a means of rallying the PDM spirit that so many remain committed to and to hear the older people in JAGS’ constituency speak with pride. She said: “I am excited about this 40th year and I am more excited about what is in store. “We are looking forward to an exciting time in June. As the roots of the party were planted in North Backsalina, efforts will continue there and on the island of Grand Turk while we travel around the Islands.” On Sunday, February 22, members of the party will again join the communities of Middle Caicos in one of its worship services.
and wide-ranging examination, which included consultation with both the FSC, business community and Government. “I am pleased he has found the FSC fit for purpose, and in better shape than it used to be.” He continued: “There are some other important areas for the board to examine, including resources and consultation with business and Government. “I look forward to discussing with the board all the recommendations, and agreeing how they might be implemented.” Meanwhile on Tuesday (February 17) director Higgins said that he was very pleased with the outcome as the review recognised how much progress has been made in the last five years. “I think this was exceptional. I’m amazed that a British review of an overseas territory could be so positive.” He added that he hopes to have most of the recommendations completed within 90 days. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In his report Johnson said that priority should be given to appointing an additional non-executive director to the board who has insurance expertise (the principal financial services business sector in TCI) to enrich expertise and spread the workload. Drawing together existing internal FSC planning processes into an annual business planning exercise would assist the board in setting
Kevin Higgins
direction, he added. And the decision making process would be improved if well-structured papers were routinely circulated to board members in advance of board meetings, following best practice in other financial services regulators. He explained that as the FSC has grown in size, a heavy burden has fallen on the managing director. “A deputy managing director should be appointed to provide greater space for developing leadership and talent management of FSC staff,” Johnson said. “This would be consistent with the structure adopted by other financial services regulators in the region.” The review explained that the managing director, his deputy (if appointed) and a full complement of heads of department should work together as a senior leadership team with support from an external coach - to break down silos and encourage a more collegiate culture. Information should then be cascaded from the leadership team to
Under the tree
other members of staff. The FSC has achieved a creditable increase in the experience of its staff, Johnson revealed. “The Bank and Trust Department stands out as an example of increasing experience whereas retaining experience in the Insurance Department has been more challenging,” he said. “It is a cause for concern that the Head of Insurance post has been vacant since July 2013.” To maximise the use of existing skills and to encourage staff to develop, managers at all levels must be willing to delegate, with senior managers leading by example. The investigator explained that there is a perception, both inside and outside the FSC, that there is currently insufficient delegation. He said that an assessment of the current practice on delegation of responsibility should be an early priority for the senior leadership team. RESOURCES AND STAFF The report said that the development of an improved business planning process would help the FSC determine the resources required to deliver its objectives, and the annual publication of a business plan would help the FSC to demonstrate that resources are used “economically and efficiently”. Johnson went on to say that there is perception among some in the industry that fees charged by the continued
By Benneth Williams
8
8
NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Four illegals captured following sloop arrival – Many more thought to be on the loose in Provo A HAITIAN sloop evaded radar detection and made landfall this week allowing an unknown number of people to illegally enter the country. The wooden vessel, which is able to hold up to 40 people, came to shore in Five Cays, Providenciales, early on Tuesday morning (February 17). It is unknown how many people escaped but at time of press four people had been captured and detained in preparation for repatriation. Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner, Minster of Border Control and Labour, released a statement on the incident on Tuesday. He said: “Their sloop, which could have held 30 to 40 persons, whom we are presuming were illegal Haitian migrants, came ashore on the Island of Providenciales at approximately 2am today. “TCI immigration and police officers are on the scene, in the vicinity Five Cays Beach, and are continuing to search of the local area for these illegal migrants which will see them apprehended and repatriated in due course.”
Gardiner thanked the immigration and police officers for their work in swiftly catching the four people, who will help with enquiries before being repatriated. “This search for others will clearly include those areas of the TCI which are already home to legal Haitian migrants and further afield across the Islands,” he said. The minister went on to express his worries that the radar station, located in Five Cays near South Dock, did not detect the boat. “It is a matter of some concern to me that this vessel was not identified by our coastal radar station, which has previously enjoyed significant success in helping us track suspicious vessels, to apprehend, and to send home, hundreds of would be illegal immigrants from Haiti over the past two years.” The radar station was completed in August 2012 and its staff are responsible for monitoring marine traffic, reporting any suspicious activities and for collecting information on vessels operating in TCI waters. It uses short pulse, dual band, X-band frequencies to detect and
track a variety of marine objects in all weather conditions. “It is a disappointing to have this fine record tarnished in the manner,” the minister said. “I will, of course, be investigating why this happened and will report further on this at a later time our focus for the moment must understandably be upon the pursuit of those who arrived here illegally this morning.” Gardiner said that he and Governor Peter Beckingham have spoken to TCI Haitian authorities, including the Consul-General, to do more to prevent people travelling to the country illegally. “We will continue to maintain this pressure,” he said. When asked for an update on Wednesday (February 18) Director of Immigration Larry Mills told the Weekly News: “A migrant sloop did indeed make landfall and collaborative efforts are underway by our law enforcement agencies immigration and police - to contain suspected unlawful entrants.” He added that further details as to the number of people captured will be revealed once the operation is completed. Anyone with information can contact the police on 941-4448 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477. Tips can be submitted in English,
The radar station, located in Five Cays near South Dock, did not detect the boat
French or Spanish on either www. crimestoppers.tc or on Facebook as a fan of Crimestoppers Turks and
Caicos. Crimestoppers tips are received in the USA.
Review of FSC reveals few failings continued FROM
7
FSC are high. “Although there are some examples of particular fees charged by the FSC being higher than those charged in some competitor jurisdictions within the region, they generally compare favourably.” He said that this perception may be influenced by fee increases that have been introduced in recent years. “The FSC could improve the management of fee increases by undertaking a review of fees every three to five years, including a comparison with fees charged by competitor jurisdictions.” He explained that staff numbers at the FSC need to increase to improve the effectiveness of the commission. Much of the increase to the current complement of 68 is accounted for by the recruitment of frontline supervisors, but the size of the operational support function has also grown considerably, Johnson stressed. “This is due in part to the recruitment of additional staff to undertake data entry duties in respect of the KRegistry and various
databases. “This work should be brought to fruition and efficiencies secured.”
COSTS AND CONSULTATION According to the report, fees paid to FSC non-executive directors for attending board meetings are modest at $2,000 per meeting. There is a case for a measured increase, within affordability limits, to appropriately compensate existing non-executive directors and to help attract new directors in the future. It went on to say that the FSC has generally been successful in recruiting staff both locally and from some other regulators in the region, but higher compensation may need to be offered in some cases. A broad comparison of staff costs between different jurisdictions has its limitations, but suggests that FSC staff costs are being contained. The Financial Services Commission Ordinance requires the FSC to hold reserves to ensure that financial resources are available to deliver regulatory objectives. The FSC’s reserves are within
the range observed across financial services regulators in other Caribbean overseas territories, Johnson said. The ordinance also sets the formula and mechanism for calculating and transferring funds due to the Government. “Payments due must be made by the FSC within the timescale specified in the ordinance to set a positive example to the financial services industry on compliance.” The FSC has rightly jealously guarded its independence, but its approach may, on occasion, have over-compensated for potential risks to the integrity of any regulator, the report read. “The FSC should have quarterly meetings with the Minister of Finance and the Governor should consider inviting the FSC to brief Cabinet at least annually to develop the existing dialogue between the FSC and the Government.” Johnson also recommended that the FSC should consider increasing the frequency of meetings with the industry to quarterly also to build on existing engagement. “The consultation process with the industry and other interested
parties could be improved further by adopting a standard template for consultation documents.” Adding a prominent link to live consultations to the front page of the FSC’s website would help to ensure that all parties were aware of consultations and the deadline for responses, the report recommended. “Providing a web link to a description of the FSC’s enforcement process and publishing the total value of penalties imposed would further improve transparency.” The FSC has developed a network of co-operation agreements with other regulators and has worked with a range of international bodies. Johnson said that the forthcoming review by the IMF and World Bank under their joint Financial Sector Assessment Programme will be an important milestone for the FSC and for TCI. BACKGROUND Governor Peter Beckingham commissioned the review at the end of last year following “background noise from within the financial services sector of criticism and
carping about the FSC”. The aim was to provide a brief but incisive analysis of how the commission is performing, and possible areas to consider strengthening. Reviewer Johnson has spent more than 20 years working with the financial services industry and regulators. He was previously secretary to the independent review of British offshore financial services centres known as the ‘Foot review’ and has continued to work with the sector in the UK and in Caribbean overseas territories since publication of the review in 2009. The FSC is an independent statutory body tasked with the supervision of the financial services sector. It is also responsible for the oversight of company formation and registration and is accountable for its performance to the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The commission was established under the Financial Services Commission Ordinance 2001 and continued by the Financial Services Commission Ordinance 2007 to regulate the financial services industry.
February 21-27, 2015
NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
9
Gov’t moving to strengthen country's financial regulation MINISTER of Finance Washington Misick recently announced the Government’s intention to make a number of changes to the gaming industry as well as the introduction of a stricter financial regulatory framework. The minister made the disclosure in a recently released report on the public consultation on the maintenance of legal beneficial ownership information. In the conclusion portion of the document, he noted that the approach to the consultation was in line with the Government’s belief that solutions to illicit activity like corruption and exploitation of the natural resources of developing countries will be found only through constructive engagement. “We recognise and, more importantly, understand the rationale behind the increasingly convergent nature of global regulatory initiatives,” he said. The report noted that the TCI’s recent international initiatives, along with the public consultation process has given the Government an opportunity to evaluate the current anti-money laundering (AML) and customer due diligence regime, as it relates to the issue of transparency of beneficial ownership of the TCI companies and arrangements. It further noted some aspects that can be strengthened in order to tackle the misuse of legal persons and arrangements for illicit purposes such as corruption, tax evasion and money laundering. “In this regard, changes are being made to reform the gaming industry,” the report reads. The Government is committed to adhering to the core set of principles as set forth in the G20’s high-level principles on beneficial ownership transparency, and will continue to monitor other international developments, including the European Union fourth AML directive. Accordingly, in 2015, the Government proposes to enhance the current framework to uphold such principles, and to take actions that will assist with the elimination of wrongful uses of legal persons and arrangements, while enhancing accuracy, access, availability and monitoring/enforcement of ownership information. By mid-2015, the Government also proposes to complete its national risk assessment, which should identify any further areas for improvement that can be addressed. As further outlined in the report, the Government’s proposed initial actions are as follows. The Government stands committed to vigilance in this area and to the continuation of its programme of active engagement
with local and international stakeholders; develop subsequent improvements to its business model; and ensure that authorities effectively cooperate, both domestically and internationally, so that the jurisdiction continues to provide an efficient platform for legitimate business in the TCI. THE CONSULTATION According to the report, the consultation was open to the public, both locally and internationally, in order to provide an opportunity for broad representation. Below is a summary of the consultation responses; and an outline the Government’s current position, and proposed action points (mentioned above), on legal and beneficial ownership and a central register of beneficial ownership information. Legal and beneficial ownership Of the six respondents, (three of whom were international nongovernment organisations (NGOs), two local financial service providers and one local representative body for a set of financial service providers), the three international NGO respondents indicated that the legal and beneficial ownership arrangements were not sufficiently transparent. The three local respondents, including the representative body indicated that the TCI’s collection and maintenance of beneficial owner information was effective and satisfied international standards at the time of the TCI’s most recent AML assessment and in accordance with existing international standards. The Government noted that, although the TCI has not experienced disproportionate occurrences of financial crime, it will continue to evaluate the legal and beneficial ownership regime and implement improvements in order to mitigate and, if it were possible given the inventiveness of criminals, to eliminate abuses of the system. Continuing to improve the system, in ways that support sound business growth locally and globally, therefore remains Government’s position as the correct course of action at this time. Central register of beneficial ownership information Of the six respondents, the three international NGOs said they were in favour of a central public registry and the three local respondents, including the representative body, said they were not in favour of a central registry of beneficial ownership information, or of access to such a registry by the public.
If the implementation of a central registry system becomes the required method of meeting the global standard, the local respondents also indicated that such a register, although central, should not be accessible to the public; rather, it should only be accessible by law enforcement, regulatory, and tax authorities. The three local respondents to this question pointed out that beneficial ownership information is adequately available through existing appropriate mechanisms. To determine if a central register is the most appropriate and effective way to improve transparency in the TCI, it is first necessary to test the current regime against the financial action task force (FATF) standards for availability and accessibility.
Here it is worth underscoring that, although they are global in nature, the FATF recommendations do allow jurisdictional flexibility – not in the intended outcome of the recommendations, but in how that outcome is achieved. In particular, FATF recommendation 24 on legal and beneficial ownership outlines three avenues by which a country can comply with the availability of information standard. Of these avenues, a central register is one path; using data collected from licensed and regulated service providers is another. In accordance with the latter method, for many years, the TCI has a required licensed and regulated person within the financial services sector to collect, maintain and update
beneficial ownership information. Principle No 4 of the G20 Communiqué titled High-Level Principles on Beneficial Ownership Transparency, issued on November 16, 2014, reinforces FATF Recommendation 24 by stating, with respect to access to adequate, accurate and current information regarding the beneficial ownership of legal persons, that: “Countries could implement this, for example, through central registries of beneficial ownership of legal persons or other appropriate mechanisms.” There are valid reasons for asserting, in the case of jurisdictions that choose to comply with FATF standards via the central registry option, that the central registry continued
MILLS MUSES
Collaborative, not adversarial politics THE TCI has inherited an adversarial model of politics. This devalues parties, while playing the game of oneupmanship, which results in grievances which are held for long periods, until the other party comes to power, and scores are settled. The wider Caribbean practises this as well. But we do not have to follow others. What about fostering a politics that is collaborative, where an agreed sense of purpose is the norm? Our country would attract additional quality development, and ethical investment, which would provide a richer depth to our culture, and contribute to a more meaningful life. When our political groups upstage each other by exposing what is thought to be going on, and feel each could do better, this smacks of seeking advantage by a thousand cuts. But if the opposing group makes suggestions about how to make things more efficient, then we could move to a politics that is effective, and educational. Adversarial politics makes those interested in contributing to our country, suspicious, and cautious, while others remain on the fence. Families and seniors in other
BY Oliver Mills
Oliver Mills was born in South Caicos, acquired a diploma in article writing from the Writer’s Digest School in the United States, and worked as training manager for the Turks and Caicos public service. He is currently an adjunct lecturer in the Business and Hospitality Departments at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.
countries would like to move to a place where the atmosphere is quiet, and the environment predictable and stable. Adversarial politics limits these possibilities. Should political parties close shop? When we hear of attempts to add to the existing political system, it gives the impression of unease in the system, and thoughts of limitations. Furthermore, when statistics are given on economic performance, we get a different picture when reality is uncovered. A situation where growth exists without development, requires attention. A family cannot boast of a sizeable bank account, while most of its siblings do not benefit. This is the soil for further adversarial politics, and a signal that all is not well. The TCI needs to have a dialogue regarding where it wants to go, including the ‘independence option’ but heed what a Jamaican reggae singer says: “Out dere well bitter.
Out dere well dread.” If we should take the independence path, we will still have to deal with countries that are important contributors to the institutions from which we seek funds. Furthermore, the neglected areas of our country will become more assertive, and stake their claim to a share of the national ‘Johnny-Cake.’ Where will the resources come from to meet these previously unmet needs? We should dispense with adversarial politics, since in future, it will mean political spoils for the ruling group, and limited benefits to the other, which another election will reverse. Collaborative politics sees all political interests forging a national vision which addresses critical areas of our society, using our wisdom to create a new system that works for everyone.
10
10
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Interbank transfers to be more efficient
The right to rest in peace Dear Editor, I am writing about an issue that must be looked into a bit closer. Recently I attended a funeral of a relative of mine in South Caicos. I was surprised to see fencing placed around the perimeter of the burying ground (cemetery). At first I thought it was placed there to keep out the stray donkeys but on closer inspection I noticed the fence on the south side was bordering very closely to some existing tombs. I inquired and was told that that cleared area was slated to be a new road and there were plans for a marina. I was quite disturbed about this as this meant that with the identified area and the fencing presently in place, that there would be no room left for an extension of the existing burying ground. This cannot be right. I am hoping that I am wrong and that someone can shed some light on this situation for all the blue blooded die hard East Harbour people. In view of this, has anyone noticed that there isn’t a lot of room left in the burying ground? If we go cutting off the south side there is nowhere else to go. The north side has been fenced off for years and is a road to the development, the west side consist of a big pond filled with hard mud and at times water. I would suggest that the old road close to Girls Bay be used if another road is needed, but the adjacent land cleared away to the south side be left for further expansion of the burying
ground. I would say that South Caicos to the best of my knowledge is the only island where we only use the cemetery to bury our dead. We do not place persons in the church yards or anywhere else so evidently we should not cut off all the areas and just limit it to the scarce space that we are currently using. I understand from my discussions that there was some talk about the issue and it was suggested that the burying ground be relocated! How can anyone in their right mind conceive such a notion? This is preposterous and disgraceful to say the least. This is not an option. How can we even comprehend disturbing our relatives, the great men and women of East Harbour who have in one way or another helped to shape our lives to be the men and women that we are today? We owe our ancestors, our parents, our children our friends the dignity of death and they should not be disturbed rather left to rest in a peaceful surrounding until the end of time. We cannot sell everything, we cannot always put development first and foremost in our decisions, what about the people, our traditions, our values, our culture? There are some thing we hold sacred and some things are just not for sale, and any right thinking East Harbour person would know that it would be wrong to give up the land on all four sides, some things are just not for sale. I am not saying this is the case
because I am not sure, or would want to believe that the burying ground was not taken into consideration when the site was cleared. But if it is, I would imagine that there should be some heads at the table talking and looking for alternatives. We cannot sit by and allow the burying ground to disappear into the sea, because once all the sand is removed from the front (next to the beach) there will be no buffer left to safeguard the site. The South Caicos burying ground has such a rich history, there are tombs dating back to the 1800s. As I traverse down memory lane I can’t help but remember the great men and women who over the years have been laid to rest there, some for whom we still sit around and reminisce about. We only have the memories now and must do all we can to preserve their final resting place. Not to do so would be an injustice to their memory. I came across this some time ago. As we attend funerals in the burying grounds and walk among the dead let us: “Remember, man, As you walk by, As you are now, So once was I, As I am now, So you must be, Prepare for Death for you will surely follow me.” We will preserve their right to rest in peace and be their voice. Respectfully, Concerned South Caicos native Five Cays, Providenciales
I must come first!
Who remembers being aggressively taught by our parents to learn our ABCs? The very essence of being a child stripped from us due to the competitive nature of our parents, They did this out of love but we felt the opposite, We felt as though our best was never enough, because, no matter how hard we tried it was never good enough, It’s a guilt that plagued and inflicted us, with emotional wounds that would take years to heal, This is not an appeal for the tough love shown, This is me, a slow learner myself, trying to grasp the very nature of “why must I beat my brothers to shine in a classroom of people I consider my equals?” I must beat you friend or mommy will beat me! Mommy say she’s working too hard for me, so you can’t get my answers, even if it saves you from getting beatings, because I need to beat you so I won’t get beatings! You see the abuse already as a child?
And they wonder why childhood violence is on the rise and the lifespan of our youth is on a decline, We are taught to compete and leave our brothers behind from a young age, Even if we see a brothers struggling, we can’t help them because we will struggle to, This is a cold reality to accept but if you reflect hard enough, this is our reality, this is our society, I believe it’s a slave psychological disorder to still put whips on our children backs in the name of love, Didn’t our forefathers endure enough of this brutality? To put chains on their minds by telling them that you must come first and compete for material awards that had no existence in the biblical era, but yet we claim Christianity as our religion but we do opposite of its teachings, You see we are still in the death traps of slavery lock in an educational system that destroys our boys, by teaching them to be submissive learners when males are not submissive by nature, we are dominate and bold by
nature but does the educational system allows us develop this nature? Serious question! You see “I must come first” but what really is first? First, is neglecting our brothers for selfish gains, First, is not going to school learn, but, for competition, First, is our reluctance to share even when our brothers are struggling, First, is creating segregation amongst our children, and wonder why Turks Islanders can’t unite, it’s because we are segregated from little children, you know A class and B class, We all want a better Turks and Caicos and I truly believe it is achievable but in order to do so, these areas must be re-evaluated and worked on, We must stop teaching our children that “I must come first” and teach them that “we must work together!” Leonardo Lightbourne, Founder of Open Thought, Lower Bight, Providenciales
THE INTRODUCTION of an electronic network that will help to streamline transfers between banks in the TCI is the aim of a newly formed banking committee. The Automated Clearing House (ACH) system, which will lower the cost of cheque processing and speed up the clearing process, has received positive support across the board. Members of the ACH Solution Committee, who include representatives from all TCI licensed banks, met for the first time on Tuesday (February 17). The Financial Services Commission (FSC) chaired the meeting. They discussed the computerbased clearing and settlement facility which will be established to process the exchange of electronic transactions between participating banks. According to a press release from the FSC: “The system is set to improve the level of service currently offered by performing real time payment and eliminating the existing mandatory clearing period imposed by banks when either party to the transaction is not their customer.
“The automated service will also lower the cost of cheque processing as well as streamline the clearing process by handling large volume of credit and debit in batches.” Its implementation should adequately address issues with the way clearings are currently handled, the waste of time and resources spent as well as assist in reducing human errors. Service providers Montran, Aperta and Jack Henry Associates will present their software platform to the committee in the coming weeks. Following their presentation, members of the committee are expected to recommend their choice and start determining rules to govern the system. Once implemented, membership in the ACH will be mandatory for all banks holding a national licence. Membership of the committee includes representatives from the FSC, Turks and Caicos Banking Association, Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank, FirstCaribbean International Bank, Turks and Caicos Banking Company, British Caribbean Bank and Bordier Bank.
Gov’t moving to strengthen ... continued from
9
should be available to law enforcement, regulatory and tax authorities. However, to allow public access to a central register raises real and genuine concerns for law-abiding individuals that may infringe upon the right to privacy, which is a fundamental principle at common law and is enshrined in the Islands’ constitution. Considerable doubts have been expressed as to how accurate information collected via a central public register will be, given that those who engage in illicit activities are not likely to self-report true and correct information. By contrast, law-abiding individuals who do self-report true and correct information may fall victim to any number of cybercrimes, including identify theft. This could erode confidence in the TCI’s services and systems. Until such time as there is global agreement on appropriate exemptions and safeguards, and this becomes the internationally practiced standard, the TCI will continue to follow its current
regime. The long standing commitment of the Turks and Caicos Islands to the value of these initiatives is evident through its engagement and responsiveness to the following tax initiatives: -US FATCA and UK FATCA; -Being an early adopter to the Common Reporting Standard (including the Turks and Caicos Islands signing of the multilateral agreement on automatic exchange of information in Berlin on 29 October 2014); -High-level participation in the Global Forum for Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes; -The extension to the Turks and Caicos Islands of the Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters; -The abolition of bearer shares and the requirement to convert all bearer shares to registered shares; -The establishment of Prevention of Terrorism legislation; -The creation of the Financial Intelligence Agency to analyse trends and typologies to prevent financial crimes; and -The launch of a National Risk Assessment of the financial services sector.
February 21-27, 2015
First ever public accounts committee workshop next week THE LEADER of the Opposition’s Office together with the Public Accounts Committee will be hosting the first ever Public Accounts Committee (PAC) workshop on February 23 and 24 at the House of Assembly in Grand Turk. A press release from the PAC chairman, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson stated the purpose of the workshop is to educate on the importance of this House committee and on its work providing critical oversight to ensure improved audits. A second objective of the seminar is to provide a more relaxed atmosphere in which the accounting officers and members of the PAC can interact. As such, all accounting officers are expected to be in attendance together with members of the PAC. “We are pleased that the Governor’s Office has provided the funding for this important initiative and we are therefore able to secure the services of Mr Philip Aylett who is currently leading the charge to form an Association of Commonwealth Public Accounts Committees. “Mr Nigel Hearnden of the Audit Committee together with myself as chair of the PAC will also be assisting in the facilitation of the
NEWS 11
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
workshop and in the delivery of the various topics,” the release read. On day one there will be a brief opening ceremony at 9am during which time the Governor and Deputy Governor will present on critical areas. The opening will be carried live over Radio Turks and Caicos 97.7fm. There will be presentations on the following topics - the importance of good governance; the role of accounting officers; the roles of the national audit office, public accounts committee, internal audit department and the audit committee; PAC hearings; how to prepare for the PAC hearings; the role of parliament in financial oversight and curbing corruption. There will also be a period for feedback and questions. On day two there will be sessions for accounting officers and the PAC members’ participation only and will include a mock hearing in which there will be role reversal between the PAC members and accounting officers. “We are looking forward to a productive two days and are convinced that this workshop will aid us all in the importance of our respective roles. We expect to have a meaningful and productive few days,” the release read.
REAL TALK
We need to live as neighbours again – Part two TURKS and Caicos Islanders, when did we stop being good neighbours to each other? When did we stop looking out for each other’s children? As a child growing up; when my mother was off island, it was my neighbours who ensured I ate and kept my curfew. I can recall Ms Bea Jolly asking me: “I know Linda ain’ here so did you eat?” It was this type of affection that I was exposed to as a child. For four years my neighbour and Sunday school teacher Deacon Henry McIntosh shared his breakfast with me five days a week because he heard my mother share her frustration of sending me to school once or twice with just some hot tea. All of the memories I have shared in the last two publications are the experiences from my past that made me the person I am today. For these reasons, I am forced to ask: when did we stop being good neighbours to each other? When did we start begrudging our neighbours for what they possess? Have we forgotten what it means to share the little we
By Jas Walkin
BIOGRAPHY: Jas was born with a physical disability and diagnosed with a mild form of muscular dystrophy. His early childhood was characterised with trying to fit in in a regular school environment unequipped to cater to special needs students. With support from family, teachers and the community he graduated as valedictorian of Raymond Gardiner High School and has been a graduate teacher for the past last nine years.
have with our neighbours? Have we become so blessed with material things that we place them above our neighbours? This country’s downfall and moral decay began when our people stopped living as good neighbours and as one family. We began to envy and pull down each other rather than building each other up. Instead of supporting each other’s children, we tear them down with our children and encourage jealousy and discord among them. We need to get back basics and the characteristics that made us good people and good neighbours. What does it mean to be good neighbours? As I have alluded to previously; good neighbours are there for each other in times of need. Good neighbours look for the best in each other and help people
achieve their dreams. Good neighbours are not quick to believe negative stories about people before giving them the benefit of the doubt. Good neighbours do not celebrate the misfortunes of others or yearn for their demise in life. Good neighbours believe in each other’s hopes and dreams and seek ways to strive for excellence together. If we desire a better country, we have to become a better people. Becoming a better people begins when we become better neighbours and live like the big family we used to be. My faith in this country’s potential to bounce back and become the pearl of the Caribbean again is rooted in our ability to be good neighbours to each other.
COMMENTARY
The snow job
WHAT is a snow job? Probably a whole lot of snow! That is exactly what has been going on the last three winters in the northern reaches of the United States and as usual in Canada. Great gobs of snow and the heavy kind at that. Last night’s television news told us that Boston, Massachusetts, had people out shovelling deep snow off roofs. Several roofs had collapsed from the snows unexpected bulk and weight. I grew up and spent decades in Cleveland, Ohio, on the shore of Lake Erie. Erie is called a ‘Great Lake’ because along with its four sister lakes - they are the world’s largest source of fresh water.
Starting in November it starts to snow and in my younger years it never seemed to stop until late April. Now after quite a few years of moderate temperatures the good old days of very cold temperatures and being snowed in up north have returned. In the language of today the term ‘snow job’ has another meaning. Exaggerations, downright untruths and false stories. Here in TCI we are inundated with this kind of snow. In fact there is snow coming down from our top leaders and tourist officials as they nurse arms sore from patting themselves on the back for increased tourist arrivals. Has any of these folks assigned credit to God for the return of cold
winters and huge snow falls in the USA which caused increased visitor travel to warm TCI. Those Beaches advertisements have been acknowledged to help. Turn on any USA television station, watch the weather news and learn the truth. Then listen to the Government crow their snow job. They love it because we need millions more in taxes from visitors to pay the debts for money spent and obligations agreed in the last dozen years of the PNP government. It will not be wise to refinance the remaining millions in debt without a British guarantee because stretching out the PNP bills will cost millions more in interest. Washy says the banks are clamouring to take on the loan. If this is really true the bankers want
By David Tapfer
David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011
the high risk because it will pay high interest for a long time. That my friends is not a snow job. Banks stay in business by loaning money and earning interest. The TCI is a British oversea territory and the Brits are ultimately responsible for debt. Will the banks loan the money to a TCI going independent?
Another recent TCI snow job was our Premier complaining that the British did not recognise the tight financial controls in force in the TCI. Those tight controls did not prevent the failure of our financial minister’s bank, IBG bank or most recent failure, British Atlantic Financial Services.
12 NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Banks refuse money transfer business
Stephanie Duncanson (centre left) proudly displays her award
Local businesswoman receives coveted award TCI BUSINESS owner Stephanie Duncanson was given a special award recently for her exemplary work within the community. She received the Golden Rule Honour Award during a ceremony at an international trade event in the Bahamas earlier this month. Duncanson, owner and operator of the Flower Girl in Providenciales, told the Weekly News on Thursday (February 19) that she was delighted with the accolade. “I am very happy because it opened doors and enabled me to build a direct contact within the United Nations,” she said. Duncanson was first notified of the award in January when she received a letter stating that she had “heart and compassion towards others”. It continued: “Our office has come to know that you impacted your community with trust, dignity and have improved the quality of life by those you have
touched through your humanitarian leadership.” She was invited to accept the award at the two day International Investment and Trade symposium in Nassau, Bahamas, which took place on February 5 and 6. The event saw business developers, investors, governmental leaders, bankers, academicians and technocrats assemble to share insights and trends that are reshaping the global marketplace. One of the major highlights of the event was the awards ceremony conducted by iChange Nations and the Golden Rule Award Initiative. iChange Nations is a professional institution that equips, mentors and trains highly esteemed individuals who have the desire to change nations throughout the world. Their mission is to establish a culture of honour by acknowledging people who have exemplary leadership skills and are using it to empower mankind.
Honourees were give their awards by Ambassador at Large for the Republic of Burundi, Dr Clyde Rivers. He is the appointed executive director of the North American Division and the Interfaith Peace-Building Initiative and Representative to the United Nations in New York. Accompanying Dr Rivers were Dr Brian Williams, special business advisor to the ambassador, Dr Clyde Rivers, vice president of iChange Nations and the Golden Rule Award Initiative, and Professor Dr Kevin Storr, Associate Professor of Physics at Prairie View A and M University, Texas, a Bahamian Scholar and a recipient of the Golden Rule of Honour Award. Dr J’Ramando Horton, international economic development consultant and developer of the symposium was instrumental in bringing the Golden Rule Award Initiative to the Bahamas.
Pre-Valentine celebrations in North Caicos By Marguerite Anderson “IF MUSIC be the food of love, play on” - and that is exactly what the recent Valentine celebration was all about on the island of North Caicos. As it was certain that all roads would lead to Middle Caicos on Saturday (February 14) for the Valentine’s Day Cup, model sailboat race on Bambarra Beach, a number of pre-Valentine events were lined up beforehand. Raymond Gardiner High School was the first to set the celebrations in motion when it held its grand annual fundraising pre-Valentine event on Saturday, February 7. This year, the show took the form of a talent and fashion show and was emceed by the captivating Cynclair ‘Lady C’ Musgrove and final year student, Armando ‘DJ Space’ Walkin. The venue was the Horse Stable Beach Complex with its stage transformed into a romantic backdrop of the Valentine colours and with lighting which complemented the intimate ambiance. The spectators were treated to a delightful three-hour performance
of love tunes in the flavour of slow jams, old-hits, reggae and classical music all performed by students of the school. An instrumental performance from special guest saxophonist Dexter Landy was among the line-up in the entertainment package. On saxophone for the night’s event was Saxman, Edwin Forbes, while vocal renditions came from teacher, Stafford Salmon of Adelaide Oemler Primary School and also from Marguerite Anderson. Salmon is known for rocking the house with his medley of reggae love tunes which saw patrons hungry for his musical treats. The show was backed by the school’s band which was comprised of music teacher and bass guitarist Benjamin Lewis, drummer Armando Walkin, and keyboardists Omel Gardiner and Nandina Walkin. A pre-Valentine celebration was also in full swing at the Pelican Beach Hotel on Friday, February 13. Patrons danced the night away to the up-beat tempo of live music by Tropical Soul Band. The band which hails from Providenciales has been making
waves at the hotel’s Barracuda Beach Bar since its first performance a few weeks ago. Proprietor of the Pelican Beach Hotel, Clifford Gardiner, indicated his desire to make this pre-Valentine celebration one that will leave a memorable experience in the hearts of the tourists who are on island for the winter season. Gardiner said he felt the need to show tourists the love and appreciation he and wife, Susie have always had for those who choose North Caicos and the hotel as their vacation spot for the season. The entertainment not only catered to dancing the night away to the riveting rhythm of the Tropical Soul Band but catered also to slowdancing with that special someone. Vocalist Marguerite ‘Maggie’ Anderson was special guest performer for the evening and she gave a sweet and sultry medley of tunes from Anita Baker, Dionne Warwick, Anne Murray, Etta James, and Lauryn Hill, to name a few. The magic of the show was so enveloping that visitors and patrons were begging for more even when the show came to an end.
A TRIP to Canada to visit the head offices of several banks could be on the cards for the TCI’s financial regulators following a slew of restrictions imposed on money transfer companies. Three companies have filed complaints with the Financial Services Commission (FSC) stating that they are being unfairly treated. They claim that local branches of the Canadian banks have either refused to give them operating accounts or threatened to close the accounts they currently hold. According to Kevin Higgins, director of the FSC, the banks – Scotiabank, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and Royal Bank of Canada - have dubbed the agencies as ‘high risk’ but refuse to give any specific details. He told the Weekly News on Thursday (February 19): “They are in the cash businesses, so they collect money, they need to be able to deposit it and then transfer it abroad. “The banks are saying that money transfer businesses are high risk businesses and basically they don’t want to deal with them.” The money transfer agencies that filed the official complaints are Western Union, MoneyGram and CAM Transfer. Higgins said they are all up to date with the latest licences which
were provided by the FSC. “We licence them, just like we licence the banks. We regulate them under the Proceeds of Crime Ordinance, just like we regulate the banks. “So if the banks don’t accept one of the commission’s licensees, it’s like saying the commission’s not doing its job.” The FSC director explained that the commission has contacted Lord Daniel Brennan QC in London, England, to get a legal opinion. He said that firstly he will determine whether money transfer companies can be dubbed high risk if the banks are licenced and regulated the same way. Secondly whether the FSC can make a condition in its licence that one licensee cannot discriminate against another licensee. Higgins said the response from the local banks has been “they’re looking into it, they’ll talk to their head office, that sort of thing”. He added: “We may have to go up to Toronto and meet with the head offices of the banks. It’s just understanding why.” The companies operating in the TCI also have branches in the US, he said, so they should be meeting the same standard. The director said it is important that the banks “tell us where they are slipping, tell us where they have failed and we’ll ensure that they bring their standards up.”
Lime customers to get six times faster internet By Daisy Handfield LIME TCI has recently launched its ‘Superfast Broadband’ which allows customers the opportunity to surf the internet even faster than before. A press conference was held on Wednesday (February 18) at The Vix conference room in Grace Bay to announce the implementation of the service. The company also mentioned that customers within the current areas where the new broadband service is available have been automatically switched over to the new broadband product. Lime has offered the increased data speeds at no extra cost to customers for a three month period, after which they will be billed at the new plan speeds and rates. James Pitt, general manager of Lime TCI, said that this is part of their much touted $10 million upgrade that they promised late last year. “We have upgraded our mobile services to superfast 4G and now our customers at home can also experience our ‘Superfast Broadband’ service which will allow them to surf, stream,
download and game without buffering or lagging of any kind at the higher package speeds.” “There are other upgrades in the pipeline” hinted Pitt, “as Lime continues to find ways to add value for customers and ensure that we remain the technology leaders in our islands.” He said that their rollout is a phased one and so he invited customers to visit their Lime website to use their Line-Checker feature to determine if Superfast Broadband is currently available in their area. Superfast Broadband is available in a variety of plans that cater for the casual internet user sending emails and pictures at home to the digitally savvy user who requires faster speeds for high definition video streaming, interactive gaming and superfast music and image downloads. Marketing and public relations manager Rachel Harvey said that this was a game-changer for customers. “We live in a digital age and we are very pleased to be able to ensure that our Turks and Caicos Islanders have the very best in telecommunications services available for their lifestyle needs.”
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS 13
Legislation needed to ensure jobs for Islanders, not empty words BY DELANA ISLES LEADER of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and former Premier Michael Misick, are not too impressed with Premier Rufus Ewing’s statements on equitable employment for Islanders. Speaking with the Weekly News on Thursday (February 19), both Misick and Cartwright Robinson indicated that as long as the policies of the Government do not dictate that Turks and Caicos Islanders are given a fair shot at employment opportunities then the Premier is merely blowing hot air. In a national address Thursday morning, Ewing demanded that those businesses that are discriminating against Islanders when it comes to employment and fair pay should seize this practice as the Government will not tolerate it. But the Leader of the Opposition believes that such statements are not befitting the Office of the Premier, especially when his policies do not make provisions for the fair and equitable treatment of Islanders in the local labour force. “His polices have to dictate, his work permit policies have to dictate this. Somebody in the Opposition has
to call on businesses to do it because he has no executive authority behind that,” the party leader said. She added: “For the Premier to make such an empty statement after people have been suffering for over two years under his Government, I don’t think it’s a powerful enough statement and that it’s befitting the Office of the Premier.” She said the statements are meant to mislead the people in staged one sided fight where he has everything at his disposal to correct the ills that he has just stumbled upon after two years. The party leader added if Ewing is really serious he will carry out the labour skills audit, install a comprehensive labour database, reinstitute the understudy endorsement stipulation that was abandoned under his Government, create a more effective Labour Department and stop the issuance of work permits as a revenue earner. “These are all issues that we have raised time and time again over the past two years. “We have also spoken to the serious issue of underemployment especially among our returning students. “It continues to pain us that
Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson
Former Premier Michael Misick
students returning from Government sponsored studies overseas are often not employed in their areas of study even in the public sector where vacancies exist.” Additionally, she wants the Premier to release the statistics publicly on which he based his statement that unemployment has gone down since his party came to office. “We are eager to see the statistics to date since 2012.” Cartwright Robinson also pointed out that Ewing’s Government also
needs to stop issuing work permits to build revenue. Misick, in a separate interview with this publication, pointed out that this is why he will be contesting the chairmanship of the party – to ensure that policies are formed and implemented by the Government that address jobs for people. The former Premier believes that a Wage Bill needs to be drafted, introduced and passed into law to address the wage issue across the board.
“We have to tackle the wages issue - there should be a wages bill that goes beyond just minimum wage. “Because, and it’s unfortunate, but the business community, if they are not supposed to pay people properly then they won’t,” Misick said. While he is not critical of Ewing for speaking out only now on the issue, Misick noted that it is one thing to come out and say this but unfortunately if the ability to enforce it is not there or for it to be compulsory, then the business community will ignore what it. He added: “It’s never too late to represent the interests of workers, whoever they are, expatriates or Belongers. “So what the Premier needs to do and the Government needs to do is take that up with legislation and call for a bill that would ensure that jobs that are coming to our country, Turks and Caicos Islanders are given first preference.” Misick noted that even those who come to TCI for work should be ensured of fair compensation for fair work. “I am for workers’ rights for all workers and so we need to now back up these statements with legislation,” he said.
Regent Palms celebrates 10th anniversary BY DAISY HANDFIELD THE REGENT Palms in Providenciales held a special lunch for staff members on Thursday (February 19) to honour the hotel’s tenth anniversary. From 12pm to 2pm, staff enjoyed a buffet style lunch in the hotel ballroom as they participated in activities including a slideshow, cash draw giveaways and other surprises. Tribute was also paid to 71 staff members who have been with the company since opening day. In attendance was the CEO for the Hartling Group, Stan Hartling, who took the opportunity to interact with staff members. Hartling said that the Regent Palms’ 10th anniversary is a tremendous milestone for the company.
“Over the past ten years we’ve always looked for better ways to do things, whether it’s by implementing a new way to look at our guest needs and expectations or through our unique training program for new hires. “We’ve pioneered a true partnership with our staff and we set the bar only by what we believe defines greatness.” He said that he is immensely proud to be leading a team of people who strive for perfection every day and relentlessly work to build the best brand in the Caribbean, and deliver incredible service to owners and guests. “Regent Palms’ employees, owners and guests - past, present and future, it has been a wonderful decade of achievements. “I thank you for your dedication and loyalty, and to your commitment of achieving excellence.
Regent Palms staff enjoy the complimentary buffet style lunch
“We’ve done amazing things together, but the best is still yet to come.” General manager for the hotel Karen Whitt said that she has a great sense of pride being a part of the chain of hotels’ team. “I have been here for four years now and I can honestly say every
day is a new challenge, but it’s also so rewarding because I have a magnificent team surrounding me and of course our owner Stan Hartling is just an amazing person to work for.” Whitt said that she was very proud of the company’s accomplishments over the past 10 years.
“In addition to being regarded as one of the top resorts in the Caribbean, we are so proud of the fact that we also continue to give back to the community. “The most important thing for me to say is that any team is only as good as the employees that work together.”
14 NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Store owner awarded overseas scholarship
Beaches Resorts is no stranger to the World Travel Awards, having been recognised as the ‘World’s Leading All Inclusive Family Resort Brand’ for the past 17 years
Beaches to host regional World Travel Awards
HUNDREDS of travel leaders from the Caribbean and North America will be descending on the Turks and Caicos Islands this autumn to attend the World Travel Awards regional gala ceremony. Beaches TCI Resort Villages and Spa has been selected to host the prestigious event on October 17. Graham Cooke, president of the World Travel Awards, said: “I am delighted World Travel Awards will be returning to Beaches Resorts, and in particular to Beaches Turks and Caicos. “The team at the resort allowed us to host one of our most successful events ever when we last visited in 2012 and I look forward to being
reunited with our friends there later in 2015.” Beaches Resorts is no stranger to the World Travel Awards, having been recognised as the ‘World’s Leading All Inclusive Family Resort Brand’ for the past 17 years. Meanwhile parent company Sandals Resorts International claimed the title of ‘World’s Leading All Inclusive Company’ for the 19th time in 2014. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, chairman of Sandals Resorts International, said: “It’s an honour to host the annual World Travel Awards once again. “We are thrilled to welcome our friends and industry leaders to the
beautiful Beaches Turks and Caicos where they will enjoy the ‘Luxury Included’ experience, as well as our newest addition, the Key West Luxury Village.” Nominations for the Caribbean and North America gala ceremony will close on February 28, while voting will open on March 2. The World Travel Awards celebrates its 22nd anniversary in 2015 and is acknowledged as the ultimate travel accolade. Gala ceremonies are regarded as excellent networking opportunities in the travel industry, and are attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries, and international print and broadcast media.
A HOME improvements store owner has been awarded a scholarship to attend a collegelevel leadership course. The North American Retail Hardware Association (NRHA) presented the award to Manish Uttamchandani, co-owner of KB Home Centre in the TCI, in January. It is for its six month Retail Management Certification Programme that starts in February. Uttamchandani said: “I believe this course will be very beneficial for me as it will help strengthen the roles I already hold, as well as give me new ideas on how to improve the different aspects of our business. “Being a small business, I lead all aspects of human resources, IT, accounting, finance and general operations, as well as travel to meet vendors and scout the world for new products to import into our Islands.” Developed in conjunction with Butler University, the programme is designed to train future leaders within the home improvement retailing industry. Students will learn advanced retail management and leadership concepts to help them to advance their careers. As part of the course Uttamchandani and his 16 fellow classmates will travel to Indianapolis three times during the semester to study alongside
independent retailers from throughout the US and Canada. Students will also receive oneon-one business coaching from Butler University professors and initiate a major business improvement project. Uttamchandani joined KB Home Centre five years ago to work alongside his father Kishore, who started the business in 1997. As a part owner of the company, but with little previous hardware knowledge, Manish has been responsible for increasing sales and bringing in more corporate accounts and contractors to the business. The company currently operates four locations throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. Scott Wright, executive director of NRHA’s Retail Leadership Institute which developed the programme in conjunction with Butler University, said: “We’re delighted to offer Manish the $6,250 scholarship to attend the Spring 2015 class. “It’s obvious from his accomplishments that Manish has the dedication and drive that it takes to succeed in home improvement retailing. “He will be a great asset to the programme and will be able to share international retailing concepts that will benefit the entire class.”
International School wins 2015 National Spelling Bee comp JENNA Hatmin from the International School of the TCI, formerly known as The Ashcroft School, recently reigned as the 2015 TCI National Spelling Bee champion. The preliminaries were held on Thursday (February 12) at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex and the finals at the Beaches Resort in Providenciales on Friday (February 13). Jenna who is the daughter of Magistrate Jolyon Hatmin beat over a dozen other competitors. Jabriel Williams of the Shining Stars was also a contestant in the finals. Principal for the school Katie Hinks said that it was their first time ever winning the competition. “We are absolutely delighted and so very proud of Jenna.
“We had a mock spelling bee at the school that Friday in which Jenna did a phenomenal job and did not make any errors whatsoever so we had every confidence in her.” She said that it is a very special kind of student who can perform at such a high levels under so much pressure and in public. Hinks added that Jenna’s win was a motivation for other students to want to get involved in the bee, next year. The title sponsors for the spelling bee for two consecutive years were Canadian couple Michael and Nancy Goldberg whom own a condo at the West Bay Club. Among schools that competed were BEST Institute, Charles Hubert James Primary, Eliza Simons Primary, Enid Capron, Holy Family, Ianthe Pratt,
Coach Oniel Chung, Jenna Hitman and Minister of Education Akierra Missick presenting the winning trophy. February 19, 2015
International School of the TCI, Iris Stubbs, Ona Glinton, Oseta
Jolly, Precious Treasures, Provo Christian, Richmond Hill, Shining
Stars and the Wesley Methodist. (DAISY HANDFIELD)
February 21-27, 2015
NEWS 15
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Happy dog owners with their beloved pet pooch
Visiting vet Dr Suma Rao carries out the delicate operation
Clinic prevents unwanted litters TWENTY-five dogs and cats were spayed and neutered this month during a four day clinic in Providenciales. The Turks and Caicos Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TCSPCA) ran the wellness clinic at their office from February 11 to 14. Dr Suma Rao, a visiting volunteer veterinarian from the United States, carried out the surgeries and was assisted by vet techs Mary-Ann Sterling and Jennifer Bernard. More than 30 animals were
vaccinated and a number of dogs had heartworm tests as part of the TCSPCA’s ongoing ‘Heartworm Prevention’ campaign. A press release from the TCSPCA explained that heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal disease in dogs in the TCI. It is caused by foot-long worms that live in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of affected pets, causing severe lung disease, heart failure and damage to
other organs in the body. The disease causes lasting damage to the heart, lungs and arteries, and can affect the dog’s health and quality of life long after the parasites are gone. “For this reason, prevention is by far the best option, and treatment - when needed should be administered as early in the course of the disease as possible,” the release read. In addition the Department of Agriculture provided identifying microchips
Success for accounts students TWO hard working employees at PricewaterhouseCoopers have passed a set of rigorous exams to become qualified accountants. Ana Alicia Coalbrooke and Ralph Patrick both achieved success in the Certified Public Accounts (CPA) examinations to the delight of the firm’s management. Joseph.P Connolly, senior partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, said: “We are absolutely delighted for and immensely proud of Ana and Ralph, who have shown real dedication in passing these very difficult exams while at the same time working as part of the audit teams in the office. “PwC has for many years had an active training programme to support Turks and Caicos Islanders in reaching their goal to become qualified professional accountants. “I think we have an unmatched record in training young TCI graduates and we as a firm take great pleasure in their achievements.
Ana Alicia Coalbrooke joined the firm in 2008 as an administrative assistant
“I am sure as newly qualified accountants that they will be an asset to the firm, the profession and to the community of the Turks and Caicos Islands.” Coalbrooke was born in
Miami, Florida, but grew up on the island of Grand Turk. She joined the firm in 2008 as an administrative assistant and continued to intern during breaks while at the University of Central Florida. She completed her degree in 2012 and re-joined the firm on a training contract where she combined hands-on training with the rigorous CPA exams. Coalbrooke is now eligible to be enrolled as a member of the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) Association. Her success follows on from that of Patrick who passed his exams early last year. He was born on the island of Grand Bahama in the Bahamas, but grew up in Providenciales. Patrick joined the firm in 2012 after obtaining his Bsc in Accounting at the University of Harding in Arkansas. He completed his student contract in 2014 and passed his final CPA exams in March last year.
which were implanted during surgery, and all dogs were licensed. The TCSPCA spay and neuter programme is a crucial part of animal control in the TCI and cuts down the number of unwanted litters. “The Provo clinic would not have been possible
without the support of local businesses and restaurants and the dedicated TCSPCA volunteers who made all the appointments, manned the phones, prepared paperwork, cleaned surgical instruments and cages,” the release said. “Special thanks to Michael Orr for providing wonderful
accommodations for the vet team, Mango Reef for a delicious dinner, and Top of the Cove, Tiki Hut, and Mis Amigo’s for very tasty lunches.” Those wishing to book an appointment for their pet the next clinic can contact the TCSPCA on 941-8846.
Lifestyle... 16
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
How does your garden grow
BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR
Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs. For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.
Vinegar as natural weed killer
For organic gardening, vinegar can function as a handy natural weed killer. It’s the acetic acid in vinegar that gives it the power to kill weeds. The higher the percentage of acetic acid in the vinegar, the better it will operate as a natural weed killer, technically speaking.
Vinegar used for culinary purposes is relatively low five percent in acetic acid, best result will be 20 percent in acetic acid. If you’re battling lawn weeds, take care to apply the vinegar directly onto the weeds themselves. Vinegar is a natural weed killer,
but that doesn’t mean it can’t be harmful if misused. Vinegar is nonselective, and this natural weed killer can harm your grass or other good plants. As a natural weed killer you’ll probably have to reapply the vinegar to get the job done, as weeds often refuse to go quietly. This is especially true of established weeds, toughened by years of coping with environmental challenges; vinegar will be more effective on younger weeds. Fortunately, knowing a little botany can help you considerably in your battle with perennial weeds like dandelions. You see, in early fall, nutrients are transferred from the dandelion leaves down to the roots. This transfer, which continues until the first killing frost, presents
you with an opportunity to hit dandelions where it really hurts! Vinegar natural weed killer applied during this time is absorbed by the leaves and passed on to the roots, following the same path down as the nutrients. The plants are killed - naturally. Repeated applications may be necessary. It is best to apply when the forecast is a few continuous days of sunshine. At the beginning of this period, spray or paint the vinegar onto the weeds you wish to kill. You need to saturate the weeds leaves with the vinegar, and rain would wash too much of the vinegar off the foliage. The real damage to the sprayed weeds begins the next couple of days after the application, when the sun hits the leaves.
Some people who use vinegar as a natural weed killer like to boil the vinegar, prior to application. Through such boiling, you may actually be able to gain a concentrate higher in acetic acid. Those of you who have held an ongoing grudge against vinegar for its ability to make your mouth pucker may finally be able to grant vinegar forgiveness. For that same sourness makes vinegar the natural weed killer of choice for organic gardening. Vinegar can also be used for cleaning purposes around the home, as an alternative to chemical cleaners. So if you rarely open that vinegar jug for purposes of seasoning your food, don’t despair. The uses for vinegar extend well beyond the culinary.
POLICE SAFETY TIPS
Burglary tips THE ROYAL Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is advising that people need to be aware of the increased risk of home burglaries and people should stay proactive. The shock of having your possessions stolen in a burglary is only worsened by the feeling of total invasion, loss of privacy, and fear for you and your family’s safety. Implement these 25 tips to protect your family and your possessions from burglary. Install automatic lighting around the outside of your premises. You can even use a mobile app to control your home’s interior and exterior lights if you have home automation. Don’t hide spare keys outside. Burglars know the most common places to stash spare keys. You can prevent getting locked out with home automation; a touch of your smartphone’s screen locks and unlocks the front
door. Don’t leave valuables or boxes for valuables outside. When disposing of your big screen TV box, cut it up to avoid alerting thieves that you recently made such an investment.
Install motion activated lights to bathe thieves in light, which is the last thing they want. Install motion activated cameras in a visible place where burglars will see them and be turned off from your residence.
By Audley Astwood Audley, a former police detective and broadcaster, is currently the press officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. His main focus is on crime prevention and community policing. For more information call 941-4448 or visit www.tcipolice.tc.
Invest in a monitored alarm system. An alarm system is not any good unless the police and paramedics are alerted when the alarm is triggered via a reputable monitoring service. Put up stickers and signs to let the world know you are protected by an alarm system. Think of this as your first line of defence. Test the alarm system frequently to make sure it is in good working order. Make sure your home passes the ‘blink test’. In three to five seconds, burglars should disregard your home as a potential target thanks to the safeguards you have in place. Putting up stickers and yard signs goes a long way towards passing the blink test. Identify security weak links. Look for windows and doors that are unsecured by your alarm system and could be key entry points. Then, strengthen them. Protect vulnerable areas with locks, motion sensor lights and cameras. Get
to know your neighbours. You can protect each other from wrongdoers. Join your neighbourhood watch. No one wants their property broken into. Everyone on a neighbourhood watch is sworn to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour and watch each others’ backs. Alert your neighbours if you leave for a long period of time. Ask them to keep tabs on your home while you’re gone. Make alternate arrangements for deliveries when you’re out of town. If these pile up, that’s a signal to burglars that you’re out of town. Hire someone to cut your lawn while you are gone. Long grass is just another clue to robbers that you’re out of town. For more crime prevention tips, security awareness tips or home safety reminders please visit www. tcipolice.tc or www.facebook.com/ rtcipf.
February 21-27, 2015
Lifestyle...
17
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
ECO Tip Lynn Robinson has lived in the Turks and Caicos Islands for 12 years and works at Big Blue Unlimited as a diving instructor, eco guide and boat captain. She is passionate about the environment and does regular beach clean ups while walking her three potcakes. Her other passion is running and can often be seen training for marathons and ultra-marathons.
By Lynn Robinson
Reduce, reuse…recycle? NOW that the recycling centre has been destroyed by a raging fire what are we going to do?! The first step is to reduce, followed by the next step reuse, because our third step recycle is out of the question until a new facility can be built. So how are we going to do it? Here are a few ideas to get you started on the path to being more environmentally aware: Take your reusable bags to the grocery store. Such a simple solution and yet so difficult for the majority of people and stores to grasp. Plastic bags are everywhere and it’s a sad day when you see ospreys using them to line their nests. Avoid using produce bags for your fruit and vegetables. Bananas, oranges and many other items have their own packaging so why use a bag? Ask for drinks without plastic straws. Many of these get washed up on the beaches and there really is no other use for them. Buy a toothbrush made from bamboo. Can you imagine how many plastic toothbrushes are discarded every year around the world? Use a proper razor and blades instead of disposable ones. Use matches instead of disposable lighters or buy a refillable lighter.
Buy a toothbrush made from bamboo
Take your reusable bags to the grocery store
Ask for drinks without plastic straws
Sadly many of these have been found in the stomachs of dead birds along with other plastic items. When buying cotton buds, choose ones made from paper, not plastic. Take your own container with you when purchasing takeout food or save the container from the salad bar and take back to reuse again, and
again, and again. Buy a reusable water bottle rather than buying expensive bottles of water. Refill from five gallon dispensers or install a filter on your kitchen tap. Buy soft drinks and other food in glass bottles and jars instead of plastic. These can then be washed
and reused to store other items. Take your own reusable plate, cup, knife and fork when invited to parties. Red solo cups are really not that cool! Buy laundry detergent powder in boxes rather than liquid in plastic bottles. Even better, buy a laundry ball that will clean your clothes effectively without detergent and is
good for 365 uses. Don’t buy balloons and lanterns for parties and special events and avoid releasing into the environment. Many birds and animals are killed from choking on the balloons or becoming entangled in the lanterns. So simple yet so effective. “Be the change you wish to see in the world” - Gandhi
Weekly Recipe Helen Barkworth-Knight is a teacher and qualified baker with a lifelong love for cooking for friends and family. She is a mother to Owen, almost two, who has very particular tastes in all things, especially food. Hence she has become an expert in hiding vegetables in all sorts of dishes!
Apple turnovers SERVES 8 INGREDIENTS • 2lb potatoes peeled and diced • ½ tablespoon butter • 2 tablespoons milk (you may need more, depending on the type of potatoes you are using) • 1lb ground beef or turkey • 1 clove garlic, crushed or finely chopped • 1 small onion, finely chopped • ½ punnet mushrooms, finely chopped • 2 medium carrots, finely chopped • 4 ½ cups hot chicken or vegetable stock (preferably
unsalted). • 1 ½ tablespoons British beef gravy powder, such as Bisto • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1oz cheddar cheese, grated METHOD • Boil the potatoes in a large pan until soft. Drain and mash them with the butter and milk, then set aside. • Meanwhile, brown the ground beef or turkey over a medium heat in a large saucepan. • Add the garlic, onion, mushrooms and carrots, and sauté together with the meat until they begin to soften.
• Add the stock to the pan and bring everything to the boil, then simmer over a low-medium heat until the carrots and mushrooms are cooked – about 10 to 15 minutes. • Preheat the oven to 350°F. • Add the gravy powder and Worcestershire sauce to the pan
and bring back to the boil. Stir well to ensure the gravy powder dissolves properly. Stir in a little extra water if the sauce thickens too much at this stage. • Tip the meat mixture into an ovenproof baking dish. Top with the mashed potato, using a fork
to fluff up the surface. • Sprinkle over the grated cheese, then bake for around 30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbling and the top is browned. • Serve with green vegetables such as broccoli and green peas. • Serves four to six adults.
18
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Science & Technology HIV vaccine that transforms cell DNA brings fresh hope A RADICAL new approach to vaccination seems to completely protect monkeys from HIV, US scientists report. Vaccines normally train the immune system to fight an infection. Instead, researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in California have altered the DNA of monkeys to give their cells HIV-fighting properties. The team describe it as “a big deal” and want to start human trials soon. Independent experts say the idea is worth “strong consideration”. This technique uses gene therapy to introduce a new section of DNA inside healthy muscle cells. That strip of DNA contains the instructions for manufacturing the tools to neutralise HIV, which are then constantly pumped out into the bloodstream. Experiments, reported in the journal Nature, showed the monkeys were protected from all types of HIV for at least 34 weeks. As there was also protection against very high doses, equivalent to the amount of new virus that would be produced in a chronically infected patient, the researchers
believe the approach may be useful in people who already have HIV. Lead researcher Prof Michael Farzan told the BBC: “We are closer than any other approach to universal protection, but we still have hurdles, primarily with safety for giving it to many, many people. “We’re very proud of it and we think it’s a big deal, but we are biased.” HIV vaccines have struggled because the virus mutates so rapidly it is a constantly shifting target. This one targets areas that HIV struggles to change. “The real strength of this thing is that it is more potent than any antibody,” Prof Farzan said. However, there are safety questions. After conventional vaccination, the immune system responds only after it is presented with a threat. The gene therapy approach turns cells into factories that constantly spew out the artificial HIV-killers, and the long-term implications of that are unknown. ‘Important step’ The team want to begin trials
in patients who have HIV but are unable to take conventional drug therapies within the next year. Prof Nancy Haigwood, of Oregon Health & Science University, commented: “In the absence of a vaccine that can elicit broadly protective immunity and prevent infection, and given the lack of major breakthroughs on the horizon to provide one, the idea of conferring potent, sustained vaccine-like protection against HIV infection through gene therapy is certainly worth strong consideration.” Dr Anthony Fauci, of the US National Institutes of Health, said: “It would be advantageous to curb HIV infection without daily antiretroviral drugs because of their cost, the potential for negative sideeffects from lifelong therapy, and the difficulties some patients have adhering to daily drug regimens and tolerating certain drugs. “This innovative research marks an important step toward our goal of putting HIV into sustained remission in chronically infected people.” (BBC)
Limpet teeth set new strength record ENGINEERS in the UK have found that limpets’ teeth consist of the strongest biological material ever tested. Limpets use a tongue bristling with tiny teeth to scrape food off rocks and into their mouths, often swallowing particles of rock in the process. The teeth are made of a mineralprotein composite, which the researchers tested in tiny fragments in the laboratory. They found it was stronger than spider silk, as well as all but the very strongest of man-made materials. The findings, published in the Royal Society’s journal Interface, suggest that the secret to the material’s strength is the thinness of its tightly packed mineral fibres - a discovery that could help improve the man-made composites used to build aircraft, cars and boats, as well as dental fillings. “Biology is a great source of inspiration as an engineer,” said the study’s lead author Prof Asa Barber, of the University of Portsmouth. “These teeth are made up of very small fibres, put together in a particular way - and we should be thinking about making our own structures following the same design principles.” Those fibres, consisting of an
The limpet has a tongue or ‘radula’ covered in tiny teeth that scrape away at the rock surface.
iron-based mineral called goethite, are laced through a protein base in much the same way as carbon fibres can be used to strengthen plastic. The teeth themselves are less than a millimetre long, but Prof Barber and his colleagues ground 10 of them into a minuscule dog-bone shape in order to precisely measure the composite’s tensile strength: the amount of force it can withstand before breaking. The middle part of these samples was more than 100 times thinner than a human hair. With either end glued to specialised levers inside a device called an atomic force microscope, the engineers applied a pulling force
to each of these milled tooth samples until they snapped. The strength they calculated for the tooth material was, on average, about five gigapascals (GPa) - some five times greater than most spider silk. This sets a new record for biology, Prof Barber said, even when his team considered the most unusual spiders. “People are always trying to find the next strongest thing, but spider silk has been the winner for quite a few years now,” he told the BBC. “So we were quite happy that the limpet teeth exceeded that. “One of my colleagues on the paper, from Italy, found some exotic spider silk that was about 4.5GPa, and we measured about 5GPa.”
Koalas love eucalyptus leaves - and they help reassure Penny as she wakes from her anaesthetic.
Koala chlamydia: The STD threatening an Australian icon THE koala is unique to Australia and is an important symbol of the country. But numbers are plummeting and the survival of koalas is under threat. One of the reasons is the sexually transmitted disease chlamydia. One of the most common places to find koalas in Australia these days is in the hospital. About 50 miles (80km) north of Brisbane, at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, a female koala is under a mild anaesthetic. “She’s quite an old girl - I think she’s over 10 years,” says veterinary surgeon Amber Gillett. The koala is called Penny. Gillett puts some ultrasound gel in Penny’s pouch and looks at the ultrasound machine. She’s checking her bladder for symptoms of chlamydia. Outside the clinic are a series of open-air enclosures. These are the “koala wards” - and they are pretty much full all-year round. Last year, Gillett and her team treated about 300 koalas for chlamydia - and so far, 2013 has been a busy year too. In people, chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease. A different strain infects koalas, but it too can be spread sexually, and it’s causing a devastating epidemic. In some parts of Australia, koala infection rates are as high as 90%. Chlamydia affects male and female koalas, and even the little ones called joeys - who pick it up suckling from their mothers in the pouch.
It causes blindness and infertility in koalas - and can be fatal. Visible signs of infection include conjunctivitis, and a condition dubbed “dirty tail”, caused by urinary tract infections and incontinence. Some other animals are also infected with the disease but it is usually at low levels. It affects koalas more seriously and experts don’t know why that is. But, as in humans, the disease is treatable with antibiotics. This means keeping the koala in captivity for the duration of the treatment - usually a few months - before releasing it back into the wild. And that’s where Jon Hanger, a wildlife biologist, takes over. In a eucalyptus wood outside Brisbane, he unfurls an antenna. Some of the animals here have been fitted with radio collars, and Hanger follows the signal up to the base of a tall tree. About 20 ft (6m) up, clinging on to a fork in the tree, is a koala called Maggie. A couple of years ago, Maggie ended up in the hospital. Her uterus was infected - she had chlamydia but the vets caught it early and she was given treatment. “She’s had two joeys since then, and hopefully, she’s got a third one in the pouch as we speak, so she’s a real success story,” says Hanger. But it’s not always a happy ending for the koalas. Many have to be put down, and about half of females are left infertile - which means fewer koalas are being born. (BBC)
February 21-27, 2015
19
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology Alien star system buzzed the Sun AN ALIEN star passed through our Solar System just 70,000 years ago, astronomers have discovered. No other star is known to have approached this close to us. An international team of researchers says it came five times closer than our current nearest neighbour - Proxima Centauri. The object, a red dwarf known as Scholz’s star, cruised through the outer reaches of the Solar System - a region known as the Oort Cloud. Scholz’s star was not alone; it was accompanied on its travels by an object known as a brown dwarf.
These are essentially failed stars that lacked the necessary mass to get fusion going in their cores. The findings are published in Astrophysical Journal Letters. Observations of the dim star’s trajectory suggest that 70,000 years ago this cosmic infiltrator passed within 0.8 light years of the Sun. By comparison, Proxima Centauri is 4.2 light years away. CLOSE ENCOUNTER In the paper, astronomers led by Eric Mamajek at the University of Rochester, New York, say they are
Scholz’s star - shown in this artist’s impression - is currently 20 light-years away. But it once came much closer.
98% certain that Scholz’s star travelled through what is known as the “outer Oort Cloud” - a region at the edge of the Solar System filled with trillions of comets a mile or more across. This region is like a spherical shell around the Solar System and may extend out to as much as 100,000 Astronomical Units, or AU (one AU is the distance between the Earth and the Sun). The Oort Cloud is thought to give rise to long-period comets that can swing past the Sun when their orbits are disturbed. To determine the trajectory of the star, the researchers needed two pieces of information: the change in distance from the Sun to the star (its radial velocity) and the star’s motion across the sky (its tangential velocity). Scholz’s star currently lies 20 light years away - making it a fairly nearby system. But it showed very slow tangential motion for a star this close. This indicated that it was either moving away from us or towards a future close encounter with the Solar System. The radial velocity measurements confirmed that the binary star system was actually speeding away from us. By tracing its movements back in time, they found its close shave with the Sun occurred some 70,000 years ago.
Forgotten fossil found to be new species of ichthyosaur A FOSSIL stored in a Doncaster museum for 30 years and thought to be a plaster copy has turned out to be a new species of ancient reptile. A young palaeontologist working with the University of Manchester found the fossil in 2008, in the collections of Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery. He realised it was the 189-millionyear-old remains of an ichthyosaur an extinct marine reptile. Further study confirmed it to be a previously unknown species. The finding has now been published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. Dean Lomax, the 25-yearold palaeontologist who studied the specimen, said it was so well preserved he could determine the contents of its stomach. “We could see tiny hook-shaped features that were actually the hooks from the tentacles of squid,” he said. “So we know what its last meal was.” Mr Lomax worked with Prof Judy Massare, from the State University of New York, comparing the specimen’s fossilised bones with those of almost 1,000 other ichthyosaurs in museums in the US and Europe. Mr Lomax explained that subtle anatomical features in its fin bones
Grand theft Oort-o? A star passing through the Oort Cloud could potentially play gravitational havoc with the orbits of comets there, sending them on trajectories into the inner Solar System. But Dr Mamajek believes
the effects of Scholz’s star on our cosmic neighbourhood were “negligible”. “There are trillions of comets in the Oort cloud and likely some of them were perturbed by this object,” he told BBC News.
The Towers of Babel Art is our language For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com
Dreaming for a broken reality By Rebecca M
As broken visionaries of her life flashes constantly before her eyes, she wonders, “Am I the only one that has ever strived beyond my capacity to achieve what is much needed or simply wanted, then feel the success of my goal seductively and gracefully embrace me, just so reality could cause it to catastrophically crumble harshly all around me as I choke on the fumes that my newly mended failures has polluted my serine air with? “Tearing down strongholds of generational curses, fear, confusion, lack and rebellion; just to be plagued by disgrace and instability, disappointments and destroyed dreams.” Broken visionaries of her life flashes before her eyes as the promised land sheds its deceptive glory and reveals cold reality. This promised land was nothing but pure vacancy.
Often misidentified as “swimming dinosaurs”, the ichthyosaur first appeared in the early Triassic period (251 million to 199 million years ago).
set the species apart from others. JURASSIC FIND It is not uncommon to find ichthyosaur fossils in England. The sharp-toothed marine reptiles swam in large numbers in the seas around Britain when the dinosaurs roamed. This particular specimen was found in the rocks of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast in the early 1980s and brought to the museum, so it is not clear how it was eventually mistaken for a copy. Dr Blanca Huertas, from the
Natural History Museum in London, pointed out that there were still many species to discover in museum collections. “Our museum is a repository of knowledge and fundamental in understanding the diversity of life in our planet,” she said. “Sometimes we discover things in the field, but the collections are an incredible source of opportunities, since visiting them, people can study specimens and collections from hundreds of places across the entire planet and travel in time.” (BBC)
Rejection by earned rewards she receives, as there’s no room for her kind. They’re screaming over achiever for the excellence and intelligence she possesses...is simply not enough. Showcasing new opportunities in alignment with her grand capabilities only to be shut down by the greed of rulers and idols in high seats. She’s demanding freedom to roam the lands where her forefathers shed blood, sweat and tears, and slaves laboured in; with contentment, but these riches are just too much to ask for. If only she knew that limitations are here to keep her bound within the realms of authorities’ desires. If she’d only know intelligence and excellence is never enough and achieving goals is always too much, then maybe she’d sit back and prepare to watch these huge dreams crumble in her little paradise called home. Or maybe, she would just stop pursuing dreams and live the lifestyle set out for her. A life of a foreigner in her own country.
20
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
St Kitts-Nevis voters deny Douglas historic fifth consecutive term ST KITTS-NEVIS voters denied Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas an opportunity of becoming the first regional leader to win five consecutive general elections and instead voted Team Unity, an amalgam of three opposition parties to form the next government in St. Kitts-Nevis. While the Electoral Commission has not officially released the results of Monday’s poll, Douglas’s St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) appeared willing to concede the victory on Tuesday. The outgoing Information Minister Nigel Carty said while the entire country is awaiting the results of the elections, the Supervisor of Elections, Wingrove George “does have a serious obligation to address the country on what is the country’s most critical event that is the election of members to the National Assembly. “Therefore we want to say to the general public that we would really like for this matter to be over as quickly as possible. We are calling on the supervisor to do what is required to ensure that the results are announced as quickly as possible.” Carty said “however we believe that based upon the information which is coming from the various constituencies …we believe from what is stacking up that the unity
St Kitts-Nevis voters denied Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas (above) an opportunity of becoming the first regional leader to win five consecutive general elections.
coalition may have won the elections and we want the country to be able to know what precisely are the results of the elections so we can move on”. He said the SKNLP was calling upon George “to appear as quickly as possible to make the requisite announcement to the country so that the country can move on less this be seen as something that it is not meant to be,” said Carty, who is also the SKNLP deputy chairman. The Electoral Commission is expected to issue a statement later on Tuesday.
But Team Unity led by economist Dr Timothy Harris, 51, a one-time senior cabinet minister in a Douglas administration, said it had won at least seven of the 11 seats that were at stake in Monday’s poll. Team Unity comprises the main opposition People’s Action Movement (PAM), the People’s Labour Party (PLP) and the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM) and Timothy said he was going to hold talks with Governor General Sir Edmund Lawrence on Tuesday on a number of issues. The 15-member National Assembly is made up of 11 elected members and four others, two of whom are government senators and one opposition senator. The attorney general is the ex-offico member of the legislative body. The St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) had entered the election in an accommodation with the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) telling the public it was the best party suited to continue the socio-economic development of the twin-island federation. But Team Unity had urged supporters it was time for there to be “Prosperity for All” and accused the outgoing administration of nepotism, corruption and mismanagement of the economy.
New HIV strain emerges in Cuba – Report claims A NEW strain of HIV that rapidly progresses into AIDS has become an “epidemic” among newly infected patients in Cuba, according to a study released this week. The new Human Immunodeficiency Virus strain is a combination of three subtypes of the virus and can progress to full blown AIDS within three years untreated – double the rate of the average strain that advances in six to 10 years. While researchers have identified more than 60 strains of HIV, this new strain is worrisome because it rapidly closes the window of time that infected persons have to seek antiretroviral therapy that would prevent the onset of AIDS. It also raises concerns that mutated HIV strains could present serious setbacks to the development of a vaccine because they are more difficult to diagnose and could become resistant to therapy. The study was published in the medical journal EBioMedicine by a team of researchers, who travelled to the island after local clinicians reported an increasing number of HIV infections that rapidly progressed to AIDS.
“To investigate this potentially increased proportion of patients with rapid progression to AIDS over the last decade in Cuba,” the study said, “we set up an exploratory study evaluating the association of rapid progression with epidemiological, clinical, viral and immunological parameters, comparing three groups of patients.
“The first two groups were newly diagnosed patients with an HIV negative test less than three years earlier, recruited prospectively, who within three years after seroconversion either were already diagnosed with AIDS or were still AIDS-free and chronically infected HIV-1 patients with AIDS recruited retrospectively.”
At least 16 people died in the accident, prompting officials to cancel the final day of the carnival.
Three days of mourning and state funerals for Haiti carnival float victims THREE days of mourning have been declared in Haiti after a power line fell on to a carnival float in the capital, Port au Prince. At least 16 people died in the accident, prompting officials to cancel the final day of the carnival. Witnesses said someone on the float used a stick to move the power line to let the float pass, the Associated Press news agency reported. Some of the victims were electrocuted while others died in the ensuing panic. Officials said a further 78 people had been injured. Haitian Prime Minister Evans Paul said a silent parade would be held later on Tuesday to honour the dead. Those in attendance will wear white and march along the Champ de Mars where the accident occurred. The three days of mourning will officially begin on Wednesday, with flags to be flown at half-mast. A state funeral will be held for the victims on Saturday.
The float, one of 16 in the parade, was sponsored by the Haitian hiphop group Barikad Crew. The power line struck the group’s singer Fantom, who remains in hospital in a critical condition. Hundreds of people were reported to have gathered outside the hospital, waiting for news of their loved ones. Haitian President Michel Martelly gave his condolences to the victims on Twitter. “My sincere sympathy to the victims of the serious incident at Champ de Mars on the second day of carnival,” the president tweeted in French. Witnesses said some people managed to jump off the float, causing panic amid the crowd surrounding it. “I saw the wire falling and sparks and I started running for my life,” Natacha Saint Fleur told the Associated Press. Thousands of people had been attending the carnival in the capital when the accident happened. (BBC)
Bahamas police charge man with murdering 81-year-old mother
While researchers have identified more than 60 strains of HIV, this new strain is worrisome because it rapidly closes the window of time that infected persons have to seek antiretroviral therapy that would prevent the onset of AIDS.
A 56-YEAR-OLD man is due to appear in court Monday charged with murdering his 81-year-old mother. A post mortem found that the woman, Princess Butler, had died due to asphyxia. There were also injuries to her body. A police statement said that the woman’s body was found at her home and that investigations led to the arrest of her son, whose name has also not been released. “The suspect is expected to appear in court on Monday 16th February to be formally charged,” the statement said, noting that the crime occurred on February 4.
Meanwhile, a 38-year Bulgarian man, who is suspected to have stolen thousands of dollars from several bank accounts using a card-skimming device, has been arrested. Police said that detectives acting executed a search warrant at a house occupied by the suspect over the weekend, and “found an assortment of fraudulent credit cards, laptop computers, a card reader and over US$75,000:00 in cash. “The suspect along with a 22 year old Bahamian man were taken into custody for questioning,” the police said. (CMC)
February 21-27, 2015
Regional News
Record year for Caribbean tourism
A SUCCESSFUL year for Cayman Islands tourism was reflected across the region with almost every island in the Caribbean seeing an increase in visitation in what officials describe as the “best ever year” for the industry. Overall tourism arrival figures for the Caribbean were up just over 5 percent in 2014. The Cayman Islands, which had a record year, was one of the top performers, seeing gains of just over 10 percent. Cayman is still just outside the top 10 most visited destinations in the region, recording the 11th highest total for stay-over tourists in 2014, with some destinations yet to file complete figures. The Dominican Republic, Cuba, Puerto Rico and Jamaica dominate the market, collectively accounting for nearly half of all arrivals. The Cayman Islands accounted for 1.4 percent of the 26 million visitors to the Caribbean in 2014. The Caribbean Tourism Organization, which published arrivals data for its 33 member countries last week, anticipates tourism growth to continue, forecasting a further 5 percent increase in 2015. “Last year, we received more visitors than ever before – recording our fifth straight year of growth – and visitors spent more money in the Caribbean than they ever did before,” CTO chairman Richard Sealy said in a state of the industry report. The report indicates that tourists spent US$29.5 billion in the region last year.
While there is rivalry for tourists between islands, the figures suggest that the success is driven, to a large extent, by general demand for “Caribbbean holidays,” particularly from the U.S. “Increased economic activity in our region’s major source markets and the fact that several of our member countries have negotiated additional routes with the airlines to increase seat capacity during the year should lead to higher demand for Caribbean vacations,” Mr. Sealy added. “At the same time, hotel brands are making substantial investments, bringing new rooms to the market, indicating rising confidence in the industry.” Data from the CTO shows that just under 50 percent of tourists coming into the Caribbean came from the U.S. Around 20 percent came from Europe and around 12 percent from Canada. Cayman is even more reliant on U.S. visitors than neighboring countries, with three in four visitors to the islands coming from America. The territory saw the largest increase in visitors from Europe of any destination in the Caribbean. But Europe still only accounts for one in 10 visitors to Cayman. The Dominican Republic is by far the most popular tourism destination in the region, attracting more than five million visitors in 2014. Cuba, with three million visitors, and Jamaica, with two million, all saw significant increases in arrivals in what the CTO said was the most successful year ever for the region.
The Bahamas: Man who murdered cabinet minister has sentence cut THE Court of Appeal has reduced the life sentence of the man convicted of murdering a Free National Movement Cabinet minister, a decision that came 18 years after Charles “Chuck” Virgil’s death. Former death row convict Ellison Smith is now serving respective sentences of 45 years and 25 years in jail for murder and armed robbery which took effect in 1999, two years after the killing. Virgil was killed in 1997, the year the FNM was elected for its second consecutive term in office. The court found that the resentencing hearing in 2010 did not take all of Smith’s factors into account because there was no order for a psychiatric report, adding that it was not enough for the judge to say the murder was committed during a kidnapping and armed robbery. “There is, however, no denying the fact that the offence of murder
21
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
for which the appellant and another were convicted was committed in aggravating circumstances: the kidnapping and robbery of the hapless deceased who had just pulled into the parking lot of his residence in his wife’s vehicle when he was jumped upon at gun point and spirited away by the appellant and others, only to have his lifeless body discovered two days later,” the written decision stated. “And for this despicable murder, despite the passage of time, the court expresses its commiseration to the family and friends of the deceased. We are, however, constrained to set aside the sentence of life imprisonment and substitute a sentence of 45 years from the date of the appellant’s conviction, July 10, 1999.” Smith sought to have his punishment reduced to a determined number of years in the hope that he could someday be eligible for release.
LIAT aims to cut over 150 employees reducing costs by EC$13 million per year THE financially strapped regional airline, LIAT, has announced plans for a voluntary separation package (VSEP) that could result in more than 150 employees being removed from the company’s payroll. “We will embark on a process of cost reduction right across the airline but that will also include a reduction in the number of people that we employ in the business. “We will embark upon that process in full consultation with our staff themselves, and also their representatives. We would wish to achieve these reductions, where possible, on a voluntary basis and that will be our aim,” said chief executive officer David Evans. Chairman of the shareholder governments, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, speaking at the end of a meeting here, said he plans were to reduce the airlines debt significantly. He said it would involve reducing the staff number from 800 to about 620, “which should save us about EC$13 million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) per year. “Of course, we’ll have to pay the severance cost of about EC$22 million. The meeting was also attended by host Prime Minister Freundel Stuart and his Dominican counterpart Roosevelt Skerritt and Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Public Utilities, Civil Aviation and Transportation Robin Yearwood. “The change in strategic direction is welcomed by Barbados. We expect to see a turnaround in LIAT’s fortunes, more responsiveness to
LIAT will have to pay severance cost of about EC$22 million.
market messages and, of course, once the whole issue of fleet renewal is complete and the disposal of the seven remaining Dash 8 planes and the reduction in the head count is complete we think that LIAT will be on a much more viable and sustainable footing,” said Prime Minister Stuart. Evans said the airline had no choice but to trim its workforce gve the fact that it is spending an estimated 27 per cent of revenue on staffing. “We hope to come out of this process at the end of the year, leaner, fitter, more responsive to the market and, most importantly, more responsive to our customers.” Gonsalves said the airline was also in need of an immediate cash injection to help stabilize its finances, and had approached the Barbadosbased Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) for assistance. CDB is already providing US$65 million to finance the re-fleeting
exercise of the airline. “We have to provide some working capital immediately in addition to these cost recoveries. The shareholder governments . . . have to find, in our proportion of the shares, EC$5 million” he said, acknowledging that the meeting had taken place with the CDB “to finalize some matters which will be returned to us”. LIAT’s chairman Jean Holder said that the inability to dispose of its retiring seven Dash 8 aircraft is also costing it about US$11 million annually. He said a “weakening market” for the planes among the reasons for being unable to offload the planes. LIAT announced that it would re-locate four of the airline’s new ATR aircraft at the Grantley Adams International Airporthere , while Antigua where LIAT is headquartered will have two. The remaining two aircraft will be based in Trinidad.
Cayman Islands: Caledonian bank run in wake of SEC allegations CALEDONIAN depositors tried to withdraw US$68 million last week after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission accused the bank and its broker affiliate Caledonian Securities of violating U.S. securities law. Chief Justice Anthony Smellie called the attempts to withdraw funds by bank customers a “virtual run on the bank” in a ruling that confirmed the appointment of controllers for the bank by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority. The bank is subject to a freeze order on US$76 million of its U.S. assets, and the operation of all services to customers and clients of the bank has been suspended. The ruling rejected an attempt by the sole shareholder to put Caledonian into voluntary liquidation, stating that the appointment of liquidators
had no legal effect given the regulator’s action of placing the bank into controllership. According to the court document, CIMA acted out of concern about the reputational and regulatory implications of the SEC allegations and action, and in the interest of depositors. The decision was also made, the chief justice wrote – quoting representations made by CIMA’s legal counsel – because of “evidence of attempts by officers of the bank to transfer funds away to a related party” and the “doubtful solvency of the bank.” The petition filed on behalf of the joint voluntary liquidators appointed by the bank’s owner stated that the board of directors refused to provide a declaration of solvency for the bank. The consolidated financial statements for Caledonian Bank
show total assets of US$618 million, total liabilities of US$593 million and shareholder’s equity of $25 million. “This state of affairs when taken with regard to the SEC [temporary restraining order] – will likely result in the bank being actually insolvent,” the chief justice wrote. A number of depositors represented at the hearing supported the appointment of liquidators but were impartial to the appointment of controllers. The court ordered the controllers to submit a report on the financial situation of the bank by a deadline determined by CIMA to both the regulator and the court. Once the report has been received, the controllers can petition to be appointed as joint official liquidators of the bank.
22
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Entertainment
Bobbi Kristina Brown has been unconscious for three weeks, and her lack of movement is likely causing blood and bladder infections, pneumonia and blood clots.
Brown’s chances of survival diminish as she remains in coma The sight of the ‘Selma’ cast and crew wearing ‘I Can’t Breathe’ T-shirts to protest the death of Eric Garner might have rubbed the voter the wrong way.
Oscar voter says ‘Selma’ snub is because there’s ‘no art to it SORRY, “Selma,” but Oscar’s just not that into you. At least that’s what one Academy Award voter may have revealed Wednesday as she pulled back the curtain on the nominating process that pretty much snubbed the heralded civil rights film. But it’s not racism that kept “Selma” stars and its director off the list, the anonymous voter insisted. “When a movie about black people is good, members vote for it,” the voter, a member of the Academy’s 378-person public relations bloc, told the Hollywood Reporter, a trade publication. “But if the movie isn’t that good, am I supposed to vote for it just because it has black people in it?” she asked, rhetorically. The tone-deaf diatribe just comes days ahead of Sunday’s 87th Annual Academy Awards ceremony, with most industry experts believing “Selma” has little chance at a best picture statuette over presumed front-runners “Boyhood” and “Birdman.” Critics also hailed the movie’s black stars — including David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King — and director Ava DuVernay, but none was nominated. The anonymous voter conceded the open secret about the 6,174 voters in the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences: the majority is white men. But the voter claimed the pale demographics didn’t affect the Oscar chances for the critically
acclaimed “Selma.” “What no one wants to say out loud is that ‘Selma’ is a well-crafted movie, but there’s no art to it,” the woman said. “If the movie had been directed by a 60-year-old white male, I don’t think that people would have been carrying on about it to the level that they were.” DuVernay’s production declined to comment. Despite the voter’s comments, race has been a central factor in coverage of “Selma” from its production until its New York premiere, which came days after a grand jury declined to indict the NYPD cop whose illegal chokehold killed cigarette scofflaw Eric Garner. Members of the “Selma” cast wore “I can’t breathe” t-shirts to the December screening — dramatizing Garner’s last words. That rubbed some Oscar voters the wrong way. “I’ve got to tell you, having the cast show up in t-shirts saying, ‘I can’t breathe’ — I thought that stuff was offensive,” the voter said. At the time, the film’s producer Oprah Winfrey defended her castmates, saying the 1965 struggle depicted in the film still resonates today. “You look out your window and see people protesting, and then look at ‘Selma,’ and it looks similar,” Winfrey told the Daily News’ Joe Neumaier in December. The movie’s Oscar hopes may have been doomed by other factors — including a negative campaign by
detractors outraged by its depiction of President Johnson as an obstacle to King’s attempts to pass the Voting Rights Act. “Unfortunately, the movie was unfairly criticized early in its run by people were trying to defend and sanctify LBJ,” says Anthony Breznican, senior film writer for Entertainment Weekly. “That turned into it into a political discussion rather than a conversation about ‘Selma’s’ achievements as a film and as an important true story that has a lot of lessons for us in 2015.” “Selma” won’t be the only loser on Sunday, according to the Oscar voter, who shared other tidbits with the Hollywood Reporter: On the best actress race: “I’m not sorry that Jennifer Aniston isn’t nominated; she was fine, but I thought her movie (“Cake”) was ridiculous.” On best picture nominee, “Foxcatcher”: “I could have watched my hair grow - it was so slow.” On best original screenplay: “I didn’t get the sense that they had a screenplay with ‘Boyhood’ - it was more like they just turned on the camera once a year.” On the best supporting actress race: “I’m voting for (Patricia) Arquette. She gets points for working on a film for 12 years and bonus points for having no work done during the 12 years. If she had had work done during the 12 years, she would not be collecting these statues. It’s a bravery reward.” (NYDailynews)
A MEDICALLY induced coma can’t stop time. Bobbi Kristina Brown has been unconscious for three weeks, and her lack of movement is likely causing blood and bladder infections, pneumonia and blood clots. “The body starts going into multiorgan system failure,” said Dr. John Boockvar, a neurosurgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital. There is some good news.
Boockvar said that Brown’s age — she’s just 21 — can help her survive the oxygen deprivation of her Jan. 31 bathtub submersion. Joan Rivers was 81 when she lost oxygen — then could not recover. “Kids are surprising,” Boockvar said, adding that the overall prognosis is grim. “We should be seeing (a) glimmer of hope and we haven’t gotten it.” (NYDailynews)
Vanilla Ice stole furniture and a pool heater from a vacant house in Florida, authorities say.
Vanilla Ice busted on burglary charges VANILLA Ice will be cooling his heels in a Florida jail after cops busted him on burglary charges, police confirmed The has-been rapper, who reinvented himself as a TV construction boss, allegedly boosted furniture, a pool heater, bicycles and other items from a foreclosed house in an unincorporated part of Palm Beach County, Lantana police Chief Sean Scheller told the Daily News. The 47-year-old entertainer surrendered to cops and led
detectives on a tour of his properties Wednesday so they can look for any other stolen items, police said. “He’s being very cooperative,” Scheller said. Ice, whose real name is Robert Matthew Van Winkle, has been renovating a house in the neighborhood for his show, “The Vanilla Ice Project,” on the DIY Network. The ‘Ice Ice Baby’ singer has carved out a new place for himself in the lower-watt limelight, flipping houses with a crew of sun-glassed construction buddies.
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
23
24
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Entertainment Polanski to attend extradition hearing FILM director Roman Polanski is to attend an extradition hearing in court after the US lodged a request with Poland to have him brought back. Polish-born Polanski has been wanted by US police since 1977, when he fled the country after being charged with having sex with a 13-year-old girl. He has been working in Poland to prepare for a film he wants to shoot later this year. The hearing will take place in Krakow on 25 February. Even if the court rules Polanski should be extradited, the justice minister can approve or reject the decision. His lawyer Jan Olszewski confirmed his client would be there. Polanski, 81, is currently in Poland preparing to make a film. SIX OFFENCES Prosecutors in Poland refused a US request to arrest him in October but see no legal obstacles to the extradition. If the Polish court agrees to the extradition, a final decision would be taken by the Polish justice minister. BBC Warsaw Correspondent Adam Easton said it appears
Polanski’s films include Rosemary’s Baby and The Pianist.
unlikely Poland would allow Polanski to be extradited, where he is viewed by many as one of the country’s greatest living artists. The Rosemary’s Baby director was held in Switzerland in 2009 after travelling to Zurich to pick up a prize at a film festival. However, the extradition bid failed and he was eventually allowed to return to his home in France. He has been to Poland several times in recent years. In 2010, the Polish prosecutor general said
Polanski could not be extradited because under Polish law too much time had passed since the offences. Polanski was originally charged with six offences including rape and sodomy in 1977. He pleaded guilty to unlawful sex following a plea bargain and served 42 days in a US prison undergoing psychiatric tests. But, believing the judge was going to renege on the deal and extend his sentence, he chose to skip bail in 1978, fleeing the US to Britain, and then to France. (BBC)
Lady Gaga announces her engagement to Kinney LADY Gaga has taken to Instagram to announce that she is now engaged to long-term boyfriend Taylor Kinney. The 28-year-old posted a photograph of her ring finger with a heart-shaped jewel on it. The caption with it reads: “He gave me his heart on Valentine’s Day, and I said YES!” She has been going out with the actor and model Taylor Kinney, 33, since 2011, after they met on the set of her video for You and I. She had used social media on Saturday to say that she was “ready for my Valentine” and it seems he didn’t disappoint. In December, Gaga
Taylor Kinney reportedly proposed to Lady Gaga on Valentine’s Day.
told the American DJ Howard Stern that she knew “Kinney is the right guy.” It’s been a busy time for the singer she recently sang
on stage at the Grammys and announced last week that she’s been invited to perform at the Oscars. (News Beat)
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Entertainment Gomez goes topless, discusses anxiety
ACCORDING to Selena Gomez, life in the spotlight isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. The 22-year-old actress and singer appears topless and in a pair of short shorts on the cover of the spring issue of V magazine, proving that she’s moved on from her days as a Disney child star. The Huffington Post reports that Gomez discusses in the accompanying interview the anxiety that fame has brought into her life. Things got really bad, she said, with all the tabloid scrutiny over her relationship with pop star Justin Bieber. “There were a few months where I was a little depressed, where I wouldn’t leave (the house) as much,” Gomez said. “I think I drove myself crazy for a little bit. It was just easier to say, ‘Hey, do you mind running to the grocery store and picking some stuff up, I don’t want to get photographed.’ “ The “Spring Breakers”
The 22-year-old actress and singer appears topless and in a pair of short shorts on the cover of the spring issue of V magazine, proving that she’s moved on from her days as a Disney child star.
star said she’s grown since being involved with Bieber. The pair were involved in an on-again, off-again relationship from 2011 to 2014. “I was 18 years old, and
it was my first love,” she said. “The older I get, I’m guarding certain things more.” Gomez said she’s also learning to cope better with the fame.
Jane Fonda still smokes marijuana JANE Fonda still likes her ganja. The 77-year-old actress has revealed that she smokes weed from time to time, but only under certain circumstances. “I’ll smoke pot every now and then,” the two-time Oscar winner mused to DuJour magazine. However, she said, “I cannot see a movie on pot,” adding that getting baked mars her judgment. “The number of movies I’ve seen thinking, ‘This is probably the best I have ever seen,’ and then I’ll see it again sober and think, ‘What was I thinking?’” the actress said. Green appears Fonda’s colour of the moment; last week at the Grammys, she wowed on the red carpet in a reefer-coloured Balmain jumpsuit. The look set tongues wagging about how Fonda managed to remain so stunning - a topic that bores the “Barbarella” star.
“I’ll smoke pot every now and then,” the twotime Oscar winner mused to DuJour magazine.
“People always say, ‘Oh my God, how do you stay looking so blah blah blah,’” Fonda told the mag. “I’ve had plastic surgery. I’ve talked about that. That doesn’t matter. What matters is realizing you can always get better….to stay brave and
keep trying to go beyond your comfort zone...” Fonda herself stepped out of said comfort zone last month, when she admitted she made a “huge mistake” by visiting Vietnam in 1972 and posing for pics with Viet Cong commandos.
25
26
Entertainment
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel gets royal premiere THE Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall joined Dame Judi Dench and Dame Maggie Smith on the orange carpet at the royal premiere of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel on Tuesday. With flower garlands and coloured drapes, London’s Leicester Square was decorated to resemble a set from the Indian-based film. The release follows the 2012 box office hit The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. But critics have given director John Madden’s sequel mixed reviews. Based in Jaipur, India, the followup sees the original cast members reprise their roles, with Richard Gere joining the cast. The Second Best Marigold Hotel also stars Bill Nighy, Celia Imrie, Dev Patel, Tina Desai, Penelope Wilton and Tamsin Greig. Following the premiere, Desai said the royal couple had been “extremely warm and gracious”, and that Prince Charles was very interested in the Bollywood film industry. The original film earned more than $135m (£82m) at box offices
Fifty Shades of Grey was the second-highest February debut ever, behind The Passion of the Christ’s $83.9m opening in 2004. The royal couple have travelled together to India many times, last in 2013.
worldwide on a production budget of $10m (£6m). ‘Unexpected and rewarding’ Writing in The Guardian, Andrew Pulver gave the sequel three out of five stars, saying it was a “slightly reshuffled replica” on the original. “In seeking to exactly replicate the mood of its predecessor, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel executes the time-honoured practice of giving the punters exactly what
Call 946-4894 or stop by our Leeward Highway store today
Clothes now Available
NO HIGHER THAN
$50
BIG AND SMALL
they want,” he wrote. Meanwhile, The Telegraph’s Robbie Collin described the film as “unexpected and rewarding” compared with the original, also giving it three stars. “This follow-up... starts out just as predictably - but around halfway through, the culture-clash cliches suddenly run out, and the whole thing swerves off in an unexpected and rewarding direction,” he concluded.
Fifty Shades of Grey whips North American box office EROTIC film adaptation Fifty Shades of Grey sizzled at North American box offices this weekend, taking an estimated $81.7m (£53m). It was the second-highest February debut ever, behind The Passion of the Christ’s $83.9m opening in 2004. Based on EL James’ bestselling novel, Fifty Shades of
Grey is directed by Sam TaylorJohnson and stars Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. According to Universal Pictures, North American audiences were 68% female. The film’s takings were more than double those of its nearest box office rival, Kingsman: The Secret Service, which earned $35.6m (£24m), according to studio estimates.
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
27
28
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
World News
Church of England urges ‘fresh moral vision’ from politicians
POLITICIANS need to deliver a “fresh moral vision” ahead of the general election, the Church of England says. In a letter urging congregations to vote on 7 May, the House of Bishops does not endorse a political party but encourages debate on issues such as nuclear defence and the economy. It speaks of Britain’s “almost moribund political culture”. Conservative MP Conor Burns said the letter was “naive”, but David Cameron said he welcomed the move. The 52-page letter - an unprecedented intervention by the House of Bishops - says “it is the duty of every Christian adult to vote, even though it may have to be a vote for something less than a vision that inspires us”. The Bishop of Norwich, the Right Reverend Graham James, said there was “disengagement with the contemporary political culture” and rejected the pleas of some, such as comedian and actor Russell Brand, for people not to vote.
‘NEW APPROACH’ He told reporters: “We as bishops are not as sexy as Russell Brand but we say ‘do vote, do engage and do use the hard-won political freedoms that you possess’.” The letter says the country needs “a new approach to political life that will change the political weather as decisively as did the administrations of 1945 and 1979”. “The ideals that the Big Society stood for should not be consigned to the political dustbin,” the letter adds. The Big Society was among
Prevention has been the focus of the summit, attended by representatives of more than 60 countries.
In a letter urging congregations to vote on 7 May, the House of Bishops does not endorse a political party but encourages debate on issues such as nuclear defence and the economy.
the Conservatives’ flagship 2010 election policies and encouraged greater personal responsibility and community activism in shaping society and running public services. But by January 2013 charities expressed “huge frustration” at a lack of progress with the idea, which they said appeared to be “going nowhere”. Conservative MP Nadine Dorries said she believed the letter had “glaring inaccuracies” regarding the economy and the Church should be more concerned with issues people wanted to hear its views on, such as abortion. She said the bishops had a “very definite left-wing leaning to their message”. However, the prime minister said he was “keen for anyone to intervene in politics”. Mr Cameron said: “We want to
have a political debate in this country. “We’ve created an economy with genuine growth, real jobs and real security and I would say to the bishops, I would hope they would welcome that.” Labour leader Ed Miliband and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg have not commented on the letter. But Stephen Timms, Labour’s shadow employment minister, tweeted that he welcomed the “thoughtful and authentically Christian reflection on the election debate”. Conor Burns, MP for Bournemouth West, said the letter was “naive” in not taking into account the recession and the risk posed by countries like Iran. Paul Whiteley, professor of government at the University of Essex, said the letter’s policies were a combination of the Green Party, SNP and “perhaps a bit of Labour”.
US to allow armed drone exports THE US has announced it will begin allowing sales of armed drones to some friendly and allied countries. Only the UK has been allowed to purchase armed unmanned aircraft. Other countries have unarmed craft. Countries purchasing drones must sign agreements they will only be used for military campaigns and the US will review how the country is complying. The change comes amid China exporting drones from its own unmanned programme to at least nine countries. In the newly published policy, the state department did not specify which countries would be considered for armed drone sales, but unnamed officials told US media previous requests by Italy and Turkey would be reconsidered. US lawmakers are also currently considering selling unarmed Predator
US officials are reportedly reconsidering drone request by made Italy and Turkey.
drones to the United Arab Emirates. But certain drones - with a range of 300km (186 miles) and carrying a payload of 500kg (1,100lb) - will still be barred from export except in highly unusual circumstances.
Armed drones have been crucial to the US counter-terrorism strategy in the US, including killing targets from al-Qaeda and other militant groups but have been criticised for killing civilians. (BBC)
Obama says US ‘at war with those perverting Islam’ US President Barack Obama says the US is “not at war with Islam - we are at war with the people who have perverted Islam”. He was speaking to representatives from 60 nations attending a threeday event on extremism that follows attacks in Denmark and France. Mr Obama said the world had to confront the ideologies that radicalise people. He said those heading groups like Islamic State and al-Qaeda were not religious leaders but terrorists. Mr Obama said associating Islamic State or al-Qaeda with Islam would be buying into the propaganda of those groups, challenging critics who have questioned him for not describing recent attacks as the work of “Islamic radicals”. Mr Obama said the fight against violent extremism could not be won by military power alone. Communities, he said, must do their part. “These terrorists are a threat first and foremost to the communities they target,” he said. He added that there were Muslims around the world who did not
necessarily subscribe to the violent tactics of IS, but who “buy into” the notion that Islam had been “polluted” by Western values. “It makes individuals… more ripe for radicalisation,” he said. “Muslim leaders need to do more to discredit the notion that our nations are determined to suppress Islam.” UK Home Secretary Theresa May and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo are among those attending the conference in Washington. The US and its allies are also concerned about growing extremist involvement in Libya and West Africa, as well as Americans and Europeans who have joined IS. The summit comes at a time of heightened tension on both sides of the Atlantic. Canada has faced a growing threat from Islamist radicals, with two soldiers dying in separate “lone wolf” attacks in October last year. Meanwhile Europe has been on heightened alert since the Charlie Hebdo shootings in Paris in January. Those attacks were followed by last weekend’s killings in Copenhagen.
Danish agents were warned about gunman DENMARK’S domestic intelligence agency (PET) says it was warned by prison officials about the man who killed two people in a shootout in Copenhagen. It says it received a report in September saying that the man now confirmed by police as Omar El-Hussein, 22, was at risk of being radicalised while serving time for a stabbing. However, PET said there had been no indication he was planning an attack. The gunman was shot dead by police after two attacks in the capital.
Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks, thought to have been the main target of Saturday’s initial shooting at a debate on free speech, has said Danish police failed to step up security after January’s attack on the offices of Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris. But Danish intelligence officials insist they had no cause to suspect El-Hussein was plotting attacks after his release from jail. Confirming his identity late on Tuesday, police said the gunman had unsuccessfully tried to gain access to several of the entrances of the cultural centre that was hosting the free speech debate.
February 21-27, 2015
29
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
World News
Venezuela accuses 11 of plotting anti-Maduro coup
President Poroshenko said about 2,500 troops withdrew from Debaltseve on Wednesday.
Ukraine conflict: Poroshenko calls for UN peacekeepers PRESIDENT Petro Poroshenko has called for UN peacekeepers to be deployed to eastern Ukraine to enforce a ceasefire. At an emergency security meeting, he said such a force would help guarantee security “in a situation where the promise of peace is not being kept”. His comments came after Ukrainian troops withdrew from the strategic city of Debaltseve after intense fighting. The rebel advance on Debaltseve, which came in spite of the ceasefire
agreed last week, has been widely condemned. Mr Poroshenko’s request was approved by Ukraine’s national security and defence council at the emergency meeting on Wednesday night. “The issue was discussed and a decision has been taken to appeal to the UN and the EU concerning the setting up in Ukraine of a peacekeeping and security operation,” council secretary Olexander Turchynov told reporters.
A police official said since the bride was already married now, what could anyone do?
Angry Indian bride marries wedding guest AN Indian bride has married a guest at her wedding after her groom-to-be had a seizure and collapsed. Reports said the groom, Jugal Kishore, was epileptic and he had kept the information from the bride, Indira, and her family. While Mr Kishore was taken to hospital, the angry bride decided to switch husbands. She asked a member of her brother-in-law’s family, who was a guest, to step in and marry her instead. He agreed. The incident took place in Rampur town in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. According to a report in The Times of India, Mr Kishore, 25, fell
to the ground in front of the wedding guests just as he was reaching out to garland Indira. On his return from the hospital, Mr Kishore pleaded with Indira to change her mind, telling her that he would be ridiculed by friends and relatives if he went home without a bride, but she refused. Local police official Ram Khiladi Solanki told the BBC that Mr Kishore and his family were initially upset and lodged a complaint with the police. “But since the bride is already married now, what can anyone do? So the families have resolved the matter and the complaint has been withdrawn,” he added. (BBC)
AN EX-AIR force general has been arrested and more than 10 other people implicated in a plot to overthrow Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, officials say. The group planned to attack the presidential palace and other buildings, Mr Maduro said. Congress head Diosdado Cabello said soldiers, opposition politicians and a businessman were involved. The alleged coup attempt came a year after major street protests. Announcing what he said was the thwarting of the latest attempt to overthrow him, Mr Maduro said: “We have foiled a coup attempt against democracy and the stability of our homeland,” Mr Cabello said in a television broadcast that 11 soldiers were implicated, including a retired general. He said several had been arrested and implicated, including two opposition politicians, and showed photographs of weaponry and other items he said had been seized. Mr Cabello said the investigation into the coup plot was continuing. However, opposition figures and the US said talk of a coup was implausible. “The government makes up these stories about coups to avoid talking about how the country is breaking down,” opposition coalition spokesman Jesus Torrealba said, according to the Associated Press. In Washington, a state department spokeswoman called the idea
President Nicolas Maduro’s announced an alleged coup on the same day as a devaluation of the Bolivar.
“ludicrous”. Since he came into office in March 2013 President Nicolas Maduro has alleged there have been seven attempted coups against his government. This time, his announcement came on the day the opposition were commemorating the anniversary of mass anti-government protests that took over the country for months. It also coincided with the publication of a new new exchange rate system, which will lead to a 69% devaluation of the Venezuelan currency, the Bolivar. The authorities had also just increased the price of public transport by 40% in an effort to increase revenues. Many Venezuelans opposed to the government see the announcement of a coup d’etat as government spin intended to distract them from unpopular measures and economic problems.
Florida teen undergoes world’s first penis reduction surgery: study A FLORIDA teenager has successfully undergone the world’s first penis reduction surgery, doctors at the University of South Florida claim. The unidentified 17-year-old’s “massive” phallus was “too large for intercourse,” according to a report published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine. Shaped like an American football, it was almost 7 inches long and had a circumference of 10 inches when flaccid. “It sounds like a man’s dream — a tremendously inflated phallus — but unfortunately, although it was a generous length, its girth was just massive, especially around the middle,” Dr. Rafael Carrion, the urologist who treated the teen, told the Daily Mail. The well-endowed patient, who “reported inability to penetrate his partner,” had asked for the operation after the shape of his penis
also restricted his ability to play competitive sports, the study says. “There comes a time in every urologist’s career that a patient makes a request so rare and impossible to comprehend that all training breaks down and leaves the physician speechless,” Carrion reportedly said. Since he was 10, the teen, who has a history of sickle cell disease, had three episodes of priapism — a medical condition in which the penis stays erect for hours — that “progressively” led to his penis deformity, surgeons said in the report. Doctors were able to make it symmetrical. USF did not return calls for comment, and Carrion could not immediately be reached. The average length and circumference of a penis is about 13 and 9 centimeters, respectively, according to the study. (NYDailynews)
Amie Carter, 31, was found naked and apparently under the influence of an unknown substance in the middle of an Orlando street.
Naked woman in Florida stops traffic by masturbating in front of a car: cops
CALL it touch-and-go traffic. A naked Florida woman stopped traffic on a residential street when she masturbated in front of a couple’s car and then threw a tantrum on top of the vehicle, police said. Police responded to an intersection in Fairview Shores, on the northern outskirts of Orlando, Sunday night after reports of a naked woman walking in traffic, the Orlando Sentinel reported. They found Amie Carter, 31, strutting in the street and wearing no clothes. She appeared to be “under of the influence (of) a heavy unknown substance” and “in an altered mental state,” according to a police report. Carter refused to be removed from the street and kicked her legs in the air when cops tried to subdue her. Police later determined that Carter pleasured herself in front of a couple in a Lexus, then climbed on top of it, stomped on its hood and threw a cell phone at a car stopped behind it.
30
Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate
Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Brama Kumaris
Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands
Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101
www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com
FOR SALE
February 21-27, 2015
946-4664 Fax: 946-4661
Email: tcnews@tciway.tc
Website: tcweeklynews.com
FLOWER GIRL
Wanted urgently
Floral Designer
Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.
Call: 231-3788
Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788
February 21-27, 2015
WANTED
C & J CONSULTANCY SERVICES
HERTZ/ MYSTIQUE CAR RENTAL
MERMAIDS
Acting on behalf of our clients: Steel Unlimited
Labourer
– $6.50 per hour North Caicos Café
Domestic Worker
11082
– $5.50 per hour.
Contact: 347-6642
CLASSIFIEDS 31
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHILIP VIXAMAR Is looking for a
Home Care Helper
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour contact: 2429770 or 341-1373 11081
TEL # 649-941-39104 or 431-3910
Caicos Tours is looking for two freediving Tour Guides to entertain and care for guests, both above and below water. Candidates will need a good understanding of Reef Ecology, Certification in Freediving, SCUBA and First Aid, a current STCW 95, an extremely professional working attitude and the ability to communicate easily with guests of all ages. The working week is Monday-Saturday including bank holidays, hours are from 8:30am until the boat is cleaned after the last tour of the day. Additional hours may be required on occasion. Please contact: Caicos Tours on 231-0007 for further information Belonger only need apply
11080
REFRICOOL SERVICES Is looking for a
Labourer Must be willing
to work 6 salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 245-8939
11105
REYNOLD CHARLES
Is looking for a
Mechanic To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.
contact: 341-0384
11103
Payless ‘Quality Food Centre’ Is seeking employees in the following categories for a large retail and wholesale Supermarket:
Assistant Managers
• Trains store staff by reviewing and revising orientation to products and sales training materials; delivering training sessions; reviewing staff job results and learning needs with retail store manager; developing and implementing new product training.
Merchandisers
• To assist the Merchandise Buyers in the purchasing of product for inventory stocking of shelves etc. • Make sure the inventory is at the correct and most competitive cost for our customers using the manufacturer’s price lists and set up new inventory in the Mainframe system..
Make /model Year License # Color
Price
Nissan March
2007
7727
silver
$5799.00
Nissan March
2007
7728
silver
$5799.00
Toyota Vitz
2007
7740
silver
$6900.00
Toyota Vitz
2007
7743
silver
$6800.00
Nissan March
2008
7726
silver
$6500.00
Nissan March
2008
7729
silver
$6500.00
Nissan March
2008
7730
green
$6900.00
Toyota passo
2008
7010
white
$8500.00
Toyota Vitz
2008
7014
ocean green
$9500.00
Toyota Vitz
2008
7016
silver
$9400.00
Toyota Vitz
2008
7435
blue
$9800.00
Toyota Vitz
2008
7655
grey
$9800.00
Daihatsu Sirion
2008
7329
yellow
$7500.00
Daihatsu sirion
2008
7330
green
$7500.00
Mazda Demio
2008
6759
silver
$7900.00
Mazda Demio
2008
7441
navy blue
$7700.00
Mazda Demio
2008
7731
green
$7000.00
Mazda Demio
2008
7733
navy blue
$7000.00
Mazda Demio
2008
7737
silver
$7000.00
Nissan March
2009
6116
purple
$7500.00
Nissan March
2009
7336
white
$8000.00
Nissan march
2009
7404
blue
$8200.00
Toyota passo
2009
7011
black
$9500.00
Daihatsu sirion
2009
7326
black
$7500.00
Daihatsu sirion
2009
7328
yellow
$7500.00
Mazda Demio
2009
6599
white
$9000.00
Mazda Demio
2009
6775
navy blue
$9000.00
Mazda Demio
2009
6784
silver
$9200.00
Hyundai accent
2009
7653
silver
$7000.00
Hyundai accent
2009
7654
silver
$7000.00
Hyundai accent
2009
7656
dark blue
$7000.00
Hyundai accent
2009
7657
dark green
$6500.00
Hyundai accent
2009
7501
dark blue
$6500.00
Ford explorer
2009
7593
silver
$19500.00
Suburban
2009
7529
white
$35000.00
Ford pickup
2009
7703
silver
$24500.00
Ford pickup
2009
7720
white
$23500.00
PLEASE CALL US FOR NEWER VEHICLES 649-941-3910
Butchers and Assistant Butchers
• Should be able to Cut, trim, bone, tie, and grind meats, using butcher's cutlery and powered equipment, such as electric grinder and band saw, to portion and prepare meat in cooking form: Cuts, trims, and bones carcass sections or prime cuts, using knives, meat saw, cleaver, and band saw, to reduce to cooking cuts, such as roasts, steaks, chops, stew cubes, and grinding meat etc.
11112
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
Labourers
11110
Should be able to lift 50lbs and over and be able to offload containers in record time.
Resumes may be sent to hr@i-grocers.com
VEHICLES FOR SALE
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
CARIBBEAN BEER & SPIRITS
ALBERT HIGGS Is looking for a
BLUE WATER CONSTRUCTION
Labourer To work 6 days
Painter Construction Helper Mason Roofer Plumber Carpenter Cabinet Maker
Is seeking to hire a
Painter 11083
To work 5 days per week salary $10.00 per hour. contact: 231-1550 or 343-3251
labourer Salary $5.50 per hour contact: 941-5682 between the hours of 9am-3pm or email: tony@winecellar.tc
11079
Club Pillows seeks
1 Tile Layer Interested persons should send application via fax to 649-941-4034 c/o Alliance Realty Ltd.
11098
Must have at least 5 years experience and able to work with little or no supervision. Salary start at $8.00 per hour and is based on experience. Deadline for application is February 20th 2015
per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 243-7785
CARETAKER/ PERSONAL ASSISTANT To care for a
professional man’s infant child and to be a general personal assistant
contact: 941-4444 F.R. CONSTRUCTION
Caribbean Building Materials & Services Ltd.
Is looking for a
PO Box 611, 131 South Dock Road Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Phone 649-941-3400 Fax 649-941-3401
CBMS/HARBOUR TRANSPORT Applicant must have 5 Years experience driving a tractor trailer with experience in dump trailers. Mechanical ability would be an asset.
Heavy Duty Mechanics w/Electronic Specialization
Applicant should have specialization in electronic wiring with extensive knowledge of caterpillar equipment. Must have 5 years minimum experience in diesel heavy equipment, able to fabricate and weld, possess own tools and transportation and be able to work without supervision.
D’BELLE BEAUTY FASHION SALON NAIL CENTER Is looking for a
cashier
To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 346-8003 11141
Professional Welders
11138
Kitchen Helper Salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 343-3230 11154
DIZNARDA LENESA
Is looking for the following:
Sales Agent
Cashier Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
Contact: 246-7740 GRACE BAY SUITES
EXECUTIVE UNIQUE CUTS Is looking for a
To work 6 days per week salary minimum wage.
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
HOTEL SERVICE PROVIDERS
contact: 346-4266
contact: 241-5099
NO PHONE CALLS ACCEPTED BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY
• Island Fresh Produce is seeking qualified individuals with at least 3 years experience in hydroponic farming to work as farmers. • Must be able to work long hours, weekends, and holidays. • Belongers only need apply.
Minimum Experience 5 years. Applicant must be able to weld aluminum and iron, be versed in TIG and MIG welding, able to fabricate and manufacture components out of metal, able to work independently. Hours include weekends and evenings as required.
Please reply with reference and clean police and driving records. Wages will be based on experience.
Salary $6-$9 per hour Send resume to bluewaterconstruction@ gmail.com 11152
POSITION OF FARMER
Heavy Equipment Operator
Applicant must have substantial experience in all aspects of heavy equipment operation including Crane Operation. Seven (7) years minimum experience required. A mechanical aptitude would be beneficial. Applicant must be prepared to work weekends and evening as required.
Is looking for a
Barber
gardener
Rig Truck Driver
Is looking for the Following persons:
BON APPETIT GRAND TURK
11118
Is looking for a
Apply in writing to 31B Panorama Road, Providenciales.
$7.00 PER HOUR PLEASE DELIVER RESUME TO FRONT DESK
11091
DAVIS CONSTRUCTION
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
11130
32 CLASSIFIEDS
¿TIENES PROBLEMAS CON LA BEBIDA? HAY ESPERANZA REUNIONES DE ALCOHÓLICOS ANÓNIMOS MIÉRCOLES 8:00PM & DOMINGO 10AM
TOMAS 247-8628 POR DETALLES
11089
CLASSIFIEDS 33
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
COCO BISTRO
COCO BISTRO RESTAURANT
is looking for a
PASTRY CHEF • Must be willing to work 6 days per week including nights, holidays and weekends • Must have experience and be able to perform duties given to them by the manager • Must have a clean police record • Salary $11.00 per hour
is looking for a
labourer
To work 6 days per week salary $280.00 per week.
contact: 941-8494
11127
• Must have the following qualifications: • At least 6 years experience in an up market restaurant • Proficient with Microsoft Excel and Publisher • Culinary Degree • Willing to work on the line daily and do any job required • Must be able to work 6 days/nights
11136
COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a
Helper Salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 231-0338
is seeking to employ a
ASPHALT FOREMAN
HABITAT CONSTRUCTION
JAMES CAPRON Is looking for a
Construction Supervisor Carpenter Labourer Belonger only need apply. Must be willing to work extended hours. Salary is negotiable based on experience. Fax: 649-941-8388 Application deadline February 23rd, 2015
Labourer To work 6 days
per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 244-0006
COME SEE VARIETY STORE 5 CAYS Is looking for a
Retail Helper
Salary $6.00 per hour
Contact: 342-7810
;; The source Ltd is looking for an individual to create, develop & organize a Health & Wellness programme at their private villas. ;; The successful applicant must be passionate about healthy living, be a practitioner of yoga and have a genuine interest and ability to participate in all water sports. Preference will be given to individuals with a recognized dive certification. ;; This is a position that requires an extremely self-motivated and creative individual who has a broad based skill set. He/She must possess an excellent knowledge and genuine sense of commitment for health and wellness in general. ;; Job description includes but is not limited to the following: ;; Organizing guest’s itineraries focusing on the above and acting as guest’s personal life style coach and concierge whilst on island. ;; Designing wellness itineraries for guests and developing menus and activity packages. ;; Leading daily yoga and meditation sessions as well as diving, stand up paddle board or other water sports activities. ;; Menu planning with private chef. ;; Must be willing to work flexible hours and 7 days a week during busy holidays. ;; Vacation must only be taken during off season. ;; Interests/Experience/Qualifications required: ;; Of paramount important is a dedicated interest and love of yoga, meditation and watersports. ;; Hospitality experience preferred either working in a private villa, yacht or hotel. ;; Private Chef or culinary experience focusing on vegan, vegetarian and gluten free diets. ;; Certified diver qualification preferred. ;; Formal yoga certification is essential. ;; CPR certification is also essential. ;; Interest in sports such as tennis and golf would be an advantage. ;; Computer literate & have basic accounting experience and use QuickBooks for invoicing purposes. ;; Salary commensurate with experience and qualificiations.
Skills: • Knowledge of the local customers, materials and specifications is strongly preferred • Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills • Proven record of being a self starter and able to work under limited supervision • Able to recognize drainage issues • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina • Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Works well as team leader Compensation • Based on experience
11126
Position Type • Full-Time
Please submit application to main office at: C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI
All resumes/Cv’s letters of reference along with a clean police record must be forwarded to fax: 649-946-5368 Deadline for application is March 14th, 2015 11135
HEALTH AND WELLNESS COORDINATOR
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD.
Responsibilities: • Ability to perform asphalt paving in accordance with TCI specifications • Ability to read plans and specifications (application rates, grades, slope, drainage etc.) • Proven track record of completing jobs under budget and on-time • Ability to manage all aspects of the operation including ordering of materials, logistics, maintenance and outside services • Coordination between other crews, subs and vendors • Qualifications: • Minimum 5 years asphalt paving foreman experience • Clean police record • Valid driver’s license
and weekends including holidays • Be a team leader and work well under pressure • This is a hands on job • $30,000/ annum Applicants must be able to understand and speak English, physically fit, dependable and hardworking
We are seeking suitable applicants to fill the following openings:
11159
E & V EQUIPMENT LTD.
COOK
1115
Contact: 946-5369 deadline for application is March 15th, 2015
In Grace Bay is looking for a
Interested candidates please email Foluso@thesource.tc with full resume and qualification certificates.
11155
February 21-27, 2015
34 CLASSIFIEDS
DIVE CENTRE, RECREATION AND SAFETY MANAGER • • • • • • • • •
ESSENTAIL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Directly responsible for the Dive, Recreation and Safety Departments ensuring that all operations under his supervision are carried out in accordance with Resort operating and safety policies and procedures. • Directs day-to-day activities of Water Sports, Pool & Beach, In-house Boat Excursions Eco tours, Tennis and the Fitness Centre. Ensures smooth, efficient and safe operations. • Be cognizant of the procedures to follow to obtain medical support in the event of an accident, either diving or non-diving related. • Defines recreation standards, service, cleanliness, safety and ensures adherence to these. • Regularly inspects all watersports facilities and equipment to ensure all are adequately maintained, safe and ready for use. • Ensures proper usage of all equipment by training the staff and assisting the guests. • Plans, develops and carries out recreation programs, including researching and creating programs, analyzing recreational needs and scheduling activities. • Identifies and develops new service and equipment to enhance the product quality and meet the current and future needs. • Control the stock of equipment in all the outlets of
• •
GARDENER/LABOURER Experienced gardener/labourer required for full time work at two residences and business complex 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 $6.00 per hour.
Please apply no later than 28th February, 2015 at handmy@tciway.tc or contact on telephone No. 233 7101/231 3967. Belongers only need apply. 11107
WANTED DOMESTIC WORKER
To work 8am-5pm Monday-Friday. Salary $5.50 per hour Contact: 649-241-2228
LABOURER
To work 8am-5pm Monday-Friday salary $5.50 per hour Contact: 649-231-7243
LABOURER
To work 8am-5pm Monday-Friday salary $5.50 per hour Contact: 649-345-1963
11101
REQUIREMENTS:
• Minimum of 5 years Managerial experience in the Dive & Watersports Department of a Luxury Resort • Proficient at dive equipment servicing, boat and engine maintenance • Emergency First Aid Instructor with AED and CPR • Proven ability to take control in an emergency life threatening situation • D.A.N. and/or P.A.D.I. Advanced Oxygen Provider • Boat Masters License Grade 2 • VHF Radio Licence • STCW95 Safety at Sea Certificate • P.A.D.I. - M.S.D.T Instructor • P.A.D.I Specialty Instructor – including but not limited to: EANx, Deep, Underwater Photographer, Navigator, Night, Multi-Level and Wreck • T.D.I. Gas Blender • T.D.I Decompression Procedures Diver • T.D.I Advanced Nitrox Diver • Excellent Interpersonal and communication skills
Is looking for a
To work 5 days per week salary $150.00 per week
contact: 345-3410
Closing date 23rd February 2015
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
Is looking for a
LaboUrer labourer To work 6 days
Interested candidates should forward by email credentials to GraceBayRecruitment@gmail.com for immediate consideration. Candidates must meet the minimum requirements, possess a clean police record and be fluent in the English Language. Professional references are required. Compensation for the above position is commensurate with level, experience and qualifications.
ONLY CANDITATES MEETING MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED
SAMUEL HARVEY
SAIL PROVO
HUMAN RESOURCE RECRUITMENT & EMPLOYMENT SERVICE
per week salary $6.00 per hour
contact: 331-0098
11090
• The Dive, Recreation and Safety Manager develops, manages and supervises the entire watersports operations and staff of the following areas: Water Sports, Pool and Beach, In-House Boat Excursions, Eco tours, Tennis, and Fitness Centre. The Dive, Recreation and Safety Manager organizes activities, special events and programs to increase the revenue in the above mentioned areas and ensure that effective and proper maintenance programs are in place for all watersports equipment and facilities. He or she is also responsible for the provision of First Aid Services on the Resort, including coordination of first aid staff training including CPR and use of Defibrillation equipment and insuring all departments have adequate First Aid supplies.
•
the Dive and Watersports Department with monthly inventory system. Responsible for preparing and administering assigned program budgets; submits budget recommendations; monitor expenditures and revenues. Ensures that all services offered in the Dive and Watersports Department is always available and carried out with outmost efficiency and courtesy. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, members and guests. Supervises, evaluates, and ensures training/ career development plans of subordinates. Recommends changes in methods, equipment or staff to improve departmental standards and productivity. Constantly monitors key performance indicators for the department and takes corrective action. Maintain records and prepare reports. Deal tactfully and diplomatically with members and guests regarding rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Keeps the General Manager promptly and fully informed of all problems or unusual matters of significance. Responsible for the provision of First Aid on the Resort, including coordination of first aid training including CPR and use of Defibrillation equipment and insuring all departments have adequate First Aid supplies. Is the Resort First Responder to all Medical Emergencies for guests and staff Performs other related duties as assigned or requested.
REQUIRED FOR RESIDENCES AT NORTH CAICOS
11079
Our client is a Luxury Full Service Resort who is seeking suitably qualified candidates to fill the positions outlined below. The ideal candidate must possess the relevant professional qualifications and experience in a luxury resort environment, as well as a professional, outgoing and friendly demeanor with a strong command of the English Language (oral and written). Salary is based on education, experience and qualifications.
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
SOLONG GEORGE Is looking for a
Is looking for an
11104
Diver Interpreter
Salary $7.00 per hour Email resume to: omarmckenzie649@ gmail.com 11158
To work when needed salary based on commission
contact: 344-9209
11087
Is looking for a
L.P.S. SUPERMARKET BLUE HILLS Is looking for the following persons:
Upholster labourer To work 6 days To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 331-9854
contact: 332-3022
11134
per week salary minimum wage.
Cold Room Stocker Helper Cleaner Salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 346-6622 11153
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. Is seeking to employ an
ASPHALT LABOURER Responsibilities: • Help with basic job layout • Ensure uniform thickness of mat in accordance with job specs • Assist foreman in various construction activities Qualification • Minimum of 3 years asphalt crew experience • Clean Police Record • Must have own vehicle to travel to work
Skills • Able to recognized drainage issues • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina • Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Work well as part of a team
- - - - -
health promotion or related field from an accredited university. Ability to train and educate other team members to improve product knowledge and grow sales. Must be a personal advocate of healthy living through nutrition and exercise. Ability to manage social media, marketing, advertising and promotions. 40 hours per week including most Saturdays. Basic salary from $32-40K plus performance related bonus.
Is looking for 2
Sales Labourer Domestic Person Retail Helper Workers to work 5 days
Shop Organizer
Contact: 343-7407
BAREFOOT CAFÉ
Salary $5.50 per hour
contact: 342-6274
per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 242-0521
TILES & MORE
MARVA DEAN
11156
Is looking for the following persons
11129
is looking for a
cook To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour
contact: 341-6814
Manager Labourer labourer To work 5 days Is looking for a
Salary commensurate with experience Must be willing to work 6 days per week.
Contact: 941-8455
per week salary $6.00 per hour
contact: 331-8399
11144
is seeking to employ
ASPHALT HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
Position Type • Full-time
11123
FLAMINGO PHARMACY VACANCIES
Vitamins and Sport Nutrition Specialist - Bachelor’s degree in science, nutrition,
Is looking for the following positions:
MARCUS LIGHTBOURNE
Is looking to fill the following positions:
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD.
Compensation • Based on experience
Please submit application to main office: C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward highway, Providenciales, TCI
M & M CRAFT
LUCIE SHOP
11104
Is looking for an
KELCI TALBOT
11165
JOSE OVANDO CONSTRUCTION
CLASSIFIEDS 35
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
11106
February 21-27, 2015
Senior Pharmacist - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in pharmacy from recognised university. - Eligible to register with the TCI Health Practitioners Board and MPS. - At least 8 years post qualification experience. - Proven ability to manage a busy community pharmacy. - Experience training and managing a team of at least 8 staff. - Excellent IT skills including use of POS and Kroll. - Willing to work long shifts including weekends and holidays. - Salary commensurate with experience ranging $70-75K plus performance related bonus.
Please send resume and copies of qualifications to jobs@flamingopharmacy. com. Closing date 16th February 2015. Only Belongers need apply. 11042
Responsibilities: • Control and guide machines to lay asphalt • Fill tanks or hoppers with paving materials • Spread stone, concrete or asphalt on roadbeds • Smooth out stone or concrete using special attachments • Ensure all machines are well oiled, serviced and inspected • Coordinate materials at job site • Shovel and remove blacktop • Operate tamping machines or manually roll surfaces to compact earth fills, foundation forms and finished road materials, according to grade specifications • Operate other machines such as loaders, dump trucks and distributor trucks • Push dump trucks to maintain flow of asphalt into hoppers • Drive or attach machines onto tractor trailers • Install dies or cutter to screeds • Break up pavement with machines using hammers • Light burners on machines and
regulate screed temperatures • Ensure uniform thickness of mat in accordance with job specs • Operate other construction equipment • Assist foreman in various construction activities Qualifications • Minimum 5 years asphalt crew experience • Clean police record • Valid driver’s license • Must have own vehicle to travel to work Skills • Able to recognize drainage issues • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina • Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Works well as part of a team Compensation • Based on experience Position Type: • Full-time
Please submit application to main office at: C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI
11125
MONTE RESTAURANT We are seeking suitable applicants to fill the following opening:
Bartender
Belonger only need apply. Must be willing to work extended hours. Salary $5.00 per hour
Fax: 649-941-8388 Application deadline February 23rd, 2015 11116
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
2 Professional Bilingual (English and French)
Licensed Massage Therapists needed * Knowledge of Swedish Massage required * Knowledge of Deep Tissue, Reflexology and other various modalities preferred * Knowledge of body treatments such as scrubs and facial preferred * Minimum 2 years experience in the field of desired position, preferably in a 4 or 5 star hotel * Available to work 6 days a week/7 hours a day. * Bilingual: English and French mandatory. Knowledge of a third language such as Italian or Spanish a plus. Salary: Commission. ***Belonger only***
Send your resume and copy of your diplomas to: turkoisemassage@gmail.com
11171
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
per week salary $6.50 per hour.
contact: 241-3297
Hernandez Employment Services Agency
Sales Person
1 UPHOLSTERER 1 Maid Janitor 1 Nail Specialist 1 Barber 1 Cooker
Is looking for a
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 345-7087 11168
is looking of behalf of our clients. QUALITY UPHOLSTERY, A & M Cleaning, New Style Barbershop, Designing Image Beauty Salon, The Angela Restaurant.
to work 6 days a week @ 5.00 USD per Hrs. Belonger only may apply by sending a resume to: hernandezemploymentservices.8@ gmail.com dead line. February 28, 2015 11164
Chief Financial Officer
PwC (TCI) Ltd. Requires One (1):
BOOK KEEPER
Applicants are required to have experience in book keeping, a degree in accounting or equivalent qualifications as preferred but not required. The role will involve performing book keeping and related duties for the firm and its clients. The role is non development, and PwC will not provide any support or assistance with professional accounting examinations to persons applying for this role. Salary: $25,000 per annum
11120
Islands Pride Fisheries Ltd. One (1) Captain/Engineer for Commercial Fishing Vessel Duties & Responsibilities: Oversee the safety of the crew, vessel and catch - Responsible for the service and maintenance of the engines aboard the vessel, including any attached lifeboats -Checking and recording the catch for each crew member, including self, catch from traps and ensuring both tallies with total overall catch -Deepsea line fishing with reel -Assist the trap man to set and pull traps -Gut, ice and store fish, in common with the crew, including the captain/engineer Requirements: • Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer - Ability to lead a team -Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel • Salary: Stipend plus based on catch shared equally with crew Only Belongers need apply. Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department. Only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Application deadline: March 3rd, 2015
Mechanic To work 6 days
MARIE PROSPERE
A Dynamic Mobile Service provider seeks to recruit for the following post:
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
Apply to melissa.m.johnson@tc.pwc.com or Telefax: 649-946-4892, no later than February 28, 2015 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands
MARTINEZ AUTO REPAIR Is looking for a
11178
36 CLASSIFIEDS
Type: Permanent Location: Digicel TCI, Graceway House Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Responsibility • Manage the financial resources of the company and conduct resource planning for future needs. • Drive strategic planning of the organization. • Supervises business performance and takes steps to improve the performance of the organization. • Responsible for account monitoring and control of all the departments of the organization. • Prepares and supervises the financial reports in discussion with other departments in the company, and presents to Senior Management Team/Board of Directors • Assist in the analysis and development of new pricing structures and promotions. • Management of all Balance sheet accounts, ensuring timely completion of reconciliations and clearance of reconciling items. • Prepare annual accounting files for auditors and draft statutory accounts. • Ensure that company’s policy regarding procurement and expenditure is observed and that the requisite approvals are obtained before disbursement of funds. ACADEMIC QULIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: • Qualified CIA,ACCA,CMA or CPA • Experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, forecasting, reporting and cost control principles including International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) • At least 10 years of financial experience and management experience with the day –to-day financial operations in a large organization. REQUIRED SKILLS AND SPECIALIZED TECHNIQUES: • Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles (US GAAP & IFRS reporting standards) • Knowledge of automated financial and accounting software applications • Ability to analyze financial data and prepare financial reports, statements and projections. • Working knowledge of short and long term budgeting and forecasting, rolling budgets, and product-line profitability analysis • Professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills • Leadership skills and ability to motivate team to produce quality output and meet tight deadlines while keeping routine tasks up-to-date • Willingness to work flexible hours • Willingness to travel to Board meetings monthly Interested Applicants should forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com
CLASSIFIEDS 37
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PAUL HIGGS
STANCH CONSTRUCTION
Is looking for a
Is looking for the following positions:
Labourer/ Gardener To work 6 days
Salary $6.00 per hour.
Contact: 231-6089
11098
11111
contact: 331-9243
HOUSEKEEPER Salary $800 per month
Contact 232-7827
11092
S. WALKIN & SON
Domestic Worker
OUTBOARD BOAT MECHANIC • Diagnostic and troubleshooting the following engines: • Suzuki, Evinrude, Johnson, Mecury, Seadoo • must be willing to work a minimum of 44 hour per week, holidays and weekends if necessary • salary will commensurate with experience (1015 years) and performance
Send inquiries to: Elizabeth Owen, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Tel: 649-232-5583
11140
Need labourer For $6.75 an hour email maculene_ baptiste@ hotmail.com
11170
NATASHA CONSULTANCY
Blue Hills, P.O. Box 583, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Telephone: 649-946-4411
- Able to work with little or no supervision, be physically fit, dependable and hard working. - Must be self motivated and able to understand, read, write and speak English fluently.
Fax resume to: 649-946-4945
11121
Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:
Delroy Lightbourne
Labourer
Contact: 244-1078 Mary Berry
Domestic Worker Contact: 241-8820
Marie Hutchinson
LaboUrer
Contact: 345-5305 National Colony Realty
Labourer
Contact: 431-5723 Salary $6.00 per hour
11109
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
SPENCE SECURITY & INVESTIGATION SERVICES, LTD
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
The leading and trusted security company in TCI is in need of personnel to fill up the following position for our expansion.
SECURITY OFFICER
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SALE First Caribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd. as Chargee pursuant to the registered Land Ordinance hereby gives Notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the following scheduled properties outside the office of:
Responsibilities: • Safe guard the clients lives and properties • Prevent/deter crimes from happening • Write reports
• Can follow instructions and write comprehensive reports • Must be an excellent team-player • Must have valid TCI Driver’s License Salary starts $6.00 per hour.
Qualifications: • Minimum of 4 years military/police experience or 5-6 years security officer experience • Must have basic personal safety and other security training certificate • Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills (English)
How to apply: 1. Submit resume’ with application letter, employment and training certificates, police record, passport, proof of residence or citizenship to Spence Security office 2. Wait for Spence Security personnel to call you for an interview
MCKNIGHTS
Attorney at Law, 46 Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales 10:00 am Friday, 27th February, 2015
Interested applicants should send resume’ and applicable certificates address to: ‘The HR Manager’ not later than Feb 15, 2015 to:
60003/92 North West & North Central Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands The property is located in Belgrave Gardens, Phase one of the Priton homes residential estate. The property supports a Model A which comprises a three bedroom, two bathrooms with open plan kitchen/living/dining area built in or around 2008 on 0.25 ac. Registered Proprietor: WendyAnn Steer
SPENCE SECURITY & INVESTIGATION SERVICES, LTD. P.O BOX #73, Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Email address:HR@spencesecurity.com Fax: 941-3027 BELONGER ONLY NEED APPLY. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
Martin Thomas
Is looking for a
2 Painters 1 Labourers
per week salary $6.00 per hour.
Professional Services Agency
60811/20 Reef Lane, Long Bay Hills, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands A vacant residential property comprising a three bedroom dwelling with two bathrooms and open concept living area. Gross enclosed floor area approximately 1,003 square feet on 0.25 acres. Registered Proprietor: Ianthe Penditha Outten (deceased)
A reserve price will be fixed. A 10% deposit will be required after successful bid.
11092
Terms and conditions of Sale by Auction are available on request from MCKNIGHTS (649) 941-2330/cell: (649) 331-7250/ email: peter@mcknights.tc
11094
February 21-27, 2015
38 CLASSIFIEDS
TURTLE COVE MARINA
SOLID CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a
Project Manager
to work 6 days per week Belongers will be given first preference please send resume to: P.O. Box 954 or call 247-1151
Belonger only send resume to P.O. Box 627
11133
11122
Must have 10 years experience running all aspects of a construction company salary commensurate with experience.
barber
Y.A.3.B. CONSULTANCY Sales Clerk $6.00 per hour
QUANTUM DEVELOPMENT CO. PROVO ENTERTAINMENT CENTER Cashier $5.50 per hour
A & M CLEANING SERVICES
Nail Technician $6.00 per hour
Laborer $6.00 per hour Contact: 344-4540
11178
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 432-2355
Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty
11128
Seeking Real Estate Sales Executive Responsibilities Include
• Assist clients in the sale, purchase, letting or leasing of real estate • Introducing new clients and promoting real estate sales and new listings • Promptly notifying the Employer of the particulars of any new listing secured by the Employee, and of any potential listing or potential buyer coming to his/her attention • Performing such administrative functions as the Manager or acting Manager for the time being of the Employer (“the Manager”) may from time to time assign to the Employee • Participating in such meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, events and functions connected with real estate • Assisting in the preparation and publication or promotional material and media • Fostering good relations with companies in the real estate business and their employees and agents • Participate as a practicing member of the Turks & Caicos Real Estate Association (TCREA) • Keeping proper and organized records of activities and of the properties with which you are associated with • Sales and listing reports • Required to work after hours and weekends as necessary
Applicant Requirements
J.C. INTERNET CAFÉ
Record Translator
Painter – $7.00 per hour G TIRE SHOP
Labourer – $5.50 per hour
– $6.00 per hour
BATH & BODY WORKS
PORT ATLANTIC CONSTRUCTION
– $6.00 per hour
Cosmetologist
Contact: 344-4045
VACANCIES POSITION AVAILABLE 5th APRIL, 2015
Spa Therapist
with over 5 years experience in all types of Massages and facials plus other skin/body care services as well as some experience in Manicure/Pedicure. Applicants experience must include working in the Tourist Sector. Wages $300 per week plus commission scheme. The successful applicant must be a team player and highly motivated to excel. For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 2311092 Mon to Fri between hrs of 10am and 5pm. Resumes and references required.
Applications would be considered from Belongers only and must be received by 2nd March, 2015. POSITION AVAILABLE 1st JUNE, 2015
Cosmetologist
• A minimum of 10 years in Real Estate Sales • Business Degree from a recognized University • Sales Training Courses • Multi Language Skills an asset • Microsoft Computer application knowledge
with over 5 years experience in all types of nails, hands and feet care services. Applicants experience must include working in the Tourist Sector and workable knowledge of massages,facials and other skin care. Wages $300 per week plus commission scheme.
Commission Based Remuneration – Application Closing Date – March 1st, 2015. Please submit CV to: Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, P.O. BOX 279, Venture House, Providenciales, Telephone: 649-946-4474 or Fax: 649-946-4433
11085
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
Acting on behalf of our clients:
– $7.00 per hour
Dishwasher
contact: 241-4153 or 342-0156
Y.A.3.B. CONSULTANCY
Carpenter
Waitress $6.00 per hour
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
per week salary $6.00 per hour.
BEEN MEP CO.
Waitress $6.00 per hour
LA FAMILIA RESTAURANTE
B’S BEAUTY BOX
is looking for a
SUNSET BAR CAFÉ GRILL
Sales Clerk $6.00 per hour
Is looking for a
labourer To work 6 days
LABOURER
• General maintenance • Must be able to maintain the Memorial Garden • Clean surrounding area and assist with the cleaning of all of the businesses around the marina Salary negotiable Only candidates meeting the requirements will receive a response. Deadline for applications is February 28th, 2015
THE TERRACE LTD.
Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:
CILA ART & CRAFT STORE
WAVE DANCERS
MAINTENANCE WORKER ASSISTANT
• Must be willing to work long hours • Must be able to work unsupervised • Must be willing to perform duties such as: gardening, cleaning fuel tanks, cleaning the entire dock and assist the boats at the marina when necessary Salary negotiable based on experience
11095
SUPER CUT BARBER SHOP
Is looking for a
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
The successful applicant must be a team player and highly notivated to excel. For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 231-1092 Mon to Fri between hrs of 10am and 5pm. Resumes/ certificates and references required.
Applications would be considered from Belongers only and must be received by 2nd March, 2015.
February 21-27, 2015
UNITY ONLINE SERVICES
Is looking for
Salary $6.00 per hour Send resume to: omarmckenzie649@ gmail.com 11157
Salary $5.50 per hour
contact: 242-3746
11156
Office Cleaner Office Helper
labourers Housekeeper To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 231-0360
The Green Energy Trail Ltd is seeking candidates for the position of
Electrical Engineer
Candidates must have at least 10 years’ experience in Electronic Systems (Domestic, Commercial and Industrial up to 480 Volts 3 Phase), Electronics Troubleshooting, Electronic Testing Design, Project Management, Quality Focus, Database Design, Analyzing Information , Reporting Research Results, Attention to Detail, Emphasizing Excellence, Innovation.
Assistant General Manager
The assistant general manager (AGM) must possess a broad range of skills and be multifaceted. The ideal candidate will execute a variety of daily duties including but not limited to placing orders, receiving deliveries, accounting, maintaining inventory, and executing the Café’s wine program. Candidate must be forward thinking and use preventative measures to maintain the infrastructure of the Café. The AGM will handle daily cash sales and receipts. They will work to promote specials created by the kitchen and work closely with bar staff to market specialty cocktails and drinks. The AGM will have expert knowledge/ sommelier training in oenology as it pertains to the Café, ie., service, pairings and training of staff. He/she will be attentive to resolve customer complaints about food or service. They will monitor and govern customer behavior to ensure conduct is becoming of the Café’s high standard. The AGM will support the General Manager by participating in the disciplining of staff, hiring, and creating schedules to properly staff the establishment. They will oversee the training of staff to ensure all service standards are met, and that they remain adhered to by staff. The candidate will possess certification in Quick Book accounting, Microsoft Office programs and have extensive knowledge of Micros POS systems and will be required to utilize these skills on a daily basis. The AGM will be able to effectively read, and decipher profit and loss statements, and demonstrate strong accounting skills through daily analysis of trade. Candidate will possess problem-solving abilities and be quick to respond in a fast paced-high pressure environment. Candidate must be able to climb stairs and be prepared to lift heavy boxes that are inherent in the local and type of business.
Responsibilities:
Candidates must be Belonger only, have full driver’s license and have at minimum City & Guilds Qualification (or equivalent) as an Electrical Technician and have passed the 30Hr OSHA course. Specific experience in Photovoltaic design and installation preferred.
Please send CV to info@trail.tc 11141
The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. is seeking Labour Clearance for the position listed below. Suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently. Position requires a flexible schedule which includes holidays, weekends and evenings, and extended hours on occasion. Salary is based upon experience and qualifications.
• Work with management to estimate beverage consumption, place orders with suppliers and schedule delivery of beverage and non-food related items. • Resolve customer complaints regarding service or food. • Direct cleaning of dining areas to maintain sanitation standards and keep appropriate records. • Monitor actions of staff and guests • Proficiently operate computer software to assist with the implementation of inventories, track staffing, and record keeping tasks as they are instructed by the General Manager or Ownership • Maintain stock of supplies such as table ware, paper goods and cleaning supplies as deemed applicable • Assist with the weekly and monthly maintenance and repair of equipment and other services • Ensure total receipts and balance against sales at end of day and be able to lock facility • Recruit, hire, and oversee staff and on going training • Schedule work hours for servers and bar staff • Opening and/ or closing of the establishment ensuring all is ready for daily trade or secure for closing Other Duties: • Maintain relationships with guests and staff • Update and use job related knowledge • Schedule staff work hours and activities • Evaluate health and safety practices against standards • Organize, plan, and prioritize • Make decisions and solve problems quickly and efficiently concerning staff and guests • Process and analyze information when scheduling and budgeting • Record information about inventory and health practices • Implement creative promotional ideas working with vendors and staff • Guide, direct, and train staff • Coordinate the work and activities of staff • Communicate with customers, sales reps, and suppliers
COMPTROLLER
To direct the Organization’s day-to-day financial planning and accounting practices. Under the leadership of the General Manager, the successful applicant will be responsible for the preparation and analysis of the financial reporting process for the Resort as well as the annual budget process.
Belongers given preference
He/she will provide strong leadership to the accounting team and will develop, implement and monitor effective financial controls and procedures, providing management with advice and making recommendations to improve processes and financial performance.
To be considered, please submit CV, References and certifications to: manager@somewherecafeandlounge.com
Qualifications: CA / CPA Degree a must. Minimum of 4 years hospitality industry experience as Comptroller at a luxury resort. The ideal candidate will also have knowledge of Visual One software.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
Qualified Belonger candidates can complete an application form in person at The Somerset on Grace Bay or submit a resume by e-mail at somerset@ thesomerset.com. Tel: 649-339-5900. Fax: 946-5839. The closing date for applications is March 6, 2015. 11143
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
11097
Is looking for a
Is looking for the following:
39
WALKER CONSTRUCTION LTD.
11138
TRANSFORMATIVE H.R. SOLUTIONS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
40 CLASSIFIEDS WARD CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: Bottom’s Up Restaurant and Bar, P.J. Barber Shop, Security Management Services, South Wind Millwork is looking to fill he following positions:.
Security officers
Cosmetologist
Waitress Labourer
Salary $5.50$8.00 per hour. Contact: 345-7212
11114
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
GENESISAUTO MOBILE REPAIRS
GUS MOTORS
LOOKING FOR 3
MECHANICS
Must have a valid driver license from A-H. Must be able to work holiday and weekends. Must be able to understand computer systems, programs and diagrams. Applicants must call 649 241-4156 Monday to Saturday 7.45 to 5pm Pay set @ $10.00/ $12.00/$14.00 per hour
11162
Call 946-5534 or 244-1400, Mon to Fri 9amto5pm Saturday 9am to 12noon...email: destinationtci@gmail or destinationtci.net
Is looking for a
Mechanic
To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 231-0903
POSITION AVAILABLE AT REJOUVENANCE SPA AESTHETICIAN & MASSAGE THERAPIST REJOUVENANCE SPA is seeking to employ a certified aesthetician/massage therapist. The spa offers an array of treatments, such as: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
February 21-27, 2015
Permanent hair reduction (IPL) Fast waxing, including Brazilian waxing, using hard & soft wax Photo-rejouvenation with E-Light Chemical peels Organic facials Ultrasonic facials Oxygen facials Micro-dermabrasion Skin analysis Lash & brow tinting Lash extensions Manicure & pedicure Wedding & special occasion make-up applications Body treatments Swedish massage Hot stone massage Shiatsu And more…
Job Requirements: - Candidate must have a current aesthetician (Cidesco Certification) and/or cosmetology license (Cidesco Certification is a plus), manicure license and massage certificate (CMT Certification). - Candidate must have at least 10 years experience in the industry. - Candidate must posses a thorough knowledge of cosmetics, skincare products and related application procedures in order to boost retail sales of products. - Candidate must be able to perform all of the above listed treatments. - Candidate must be able to perform cosmetic consultations and educate clients on skin care products as well as provide customized treatment plans and skincare regiments. - Candidate must be able to forge new client relationships and ensure client retention through excellence. - Candidate must be able to stand on his/her feet and/or sit for a prolonged period of time and must be prepared to work irregular hours (including evenings), holidays and weekends. - Candidate must have means of transportation at all times. - Candidate mustregularly attend educational training seminars in order to stay up-to-date on new products, equipment and treatments. - Candidate must have excellent organizational skills and posses excellent verbal and written communicatio skills in English, Spanish and French. TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS ONLY NEED APPLY
Job applications, resumes, references and copies of certificates should be emailed to info@provo-line.com before March 6th, 2015.
11167
Five Ways to Buy a Car 1) Cash and go pay all up front and get discount 2) 50% down and 50% when it arrives. 3) 50% down and monthly payments as low as $300 everyone qualifies with job letter or self employed. 4) Reserve a car as low as $1000 and pay the balance of 50% no later than two weeks before the car arrives 5) No money....No problem join the Car Asu for Just $125
11169
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
JOB VACANCIES The Turks Head Inne, Grand Turk, is looking to fill the following positions. Résumés can be submitted to turksheadinne@ icloud.com. A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Applicants must reside on Grand Turk, as accommodation is not provided for these positions. Salary will be based on education and experience.
Qualifications and experience include but are not limited to:
• Must have 5 star property background with minimum 5 years of experience at a senior level • International experience • Fluent oral and written communication in English – A second language is an asset • Degree or diploma from an accredited post-secondary institution in related field • Remote island experience
Hotel General Manager Duties and Responsibilities
The Hotel General Manager Is responsible for all aspects of daily operations including: sales and marketing, revenue strategies, creating and maintaining standard operating procedures, financial reporting, recruiting and building teams, monitoring and maintaining the highest levels of service standards. This position requires a degree in hospitality management. Must have strong
knowledge of food and beverage, and accounting skills.
Food and Beverage Supervisor/Trainer Duties and Responsibilities
The Food and Beverage Supervisor will responsible for the daily operations of businesses that prepare and serve food and drinks to customers at the hotel. Food and beverage supervisors oversee all of the issues pertaining to a patron's dining experience, such as quality control, payroll, writing budgets, staff management, inventory, health and safety regulations and customer service. Supervisors are responsible for teaching, training, and mentoring new hires to build a strong service team that will create a memorable dining experience for all guests.
Sous Chef Duties and Responsibilities
The Sous Chef will be responsible for planning and directing food preparation. This will involve ordering, menu design, food cost analysis, budgeting, waste management, staff scheduling, supervising kitchen staff and discipline.
Visa Requirements:
Must be legally permitted to work in Turks and Caicos Islands 11088
February 21-27, 2015
Sports Interational Is looking for a
PLUMBER 11096
To work 6 days per week salary negotiable.
Pacquiao scores first point of maligned pro career PHILIPPINE boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has scored his first point as a professional basketballer, but it did little to douse criticism that the pint-sized guard does not belong on the court. Pacquiao sank the second of two free throws after he was fouled on a lay-up 11 minutes into the match between his Kia Carnival team and the Purefoods Star Hotshots in the Philippine
professional league on Wednesday night. However Pacquiao, the shortest player on the court that night at 1.69 metres (5ft 6in), struggled to keep pace with his taller and stronger opponents. In just under five minutes of playing time, he did not
score again, and a three-point attempt under no pressure ended in an air ball. “I’m not used to this feeling,” Pacquiao acknowledged afterwards when talking about scoring, his first point in three games since being drafted to the league in October last year.
Naeo's Mart
Manny Pacquiao scored his first points as a professional basketball player.
TEKORA PRATT Is looking for a
Is seeking employment for a
Butcher
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. is seeking to employ a
ASPHALT QUALITY CONTROL TECHNICIAN Responsibilities: • Use accepted methods to inspect, sample and test aggregates, asphalt or other materials from the purpose of quality control • Sample and test mixtures to stay in compliance with contract specifications and quality control/ tolerance • Monitor and test process functions and materials daily to ensure our products meet or exceed requirements of the appropriate agency or customer • Prepare and record accurate information, maintain test results database • Obtain required certification in a timely manner • Maintain all laboratory equipment, keeping track of all certification paperwork on lab scales and other equipment that requires annual re-certification • Follow quality control plans and guidelines as assigned • Follow directions of manager as to daily tasks and expectations for each specific duty • Ensure a safe work environment in compliance with all safety policies and procedures using the appropriate tools and equipment for the task • Follow all company policies and OSHA/MSHA regulations for safe working procedures • Perform general cleaning of work areas Qualifications: • Minimum 5 years experience in related field • Clean police record • Valid driver’s license Skills: • Must know and understand all TCI/DOT regulations, such as sampling frequency, sampling methods, graduation requirements, quality requirements etc. • Proven ability to develop relationships and to work with teams as both a leader and a participant • Effective interpersonal and communication skills; building rapport, listening, presenting, giving and receiving feedback • Must be able to perform simple mathematic calculations • Must have or acquire basic computer skills and be able to work with email and simple spreadsheets Compensation • Based on experience Position Type • Full-time
Please submit application to main office at: C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI
11124
Applicant must have knowledge of various meats, controlling and handling of fresh & frozen stock, cutting, boning and trimming meat. Serving customers at the counter. Must have good practical skills, a high standard of personal cleanliness, good communication and customer service skills and in-depth product knowledge Please fax or email resume to Fax: 946-4283 Email: bac@tciway.tc Suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview.
11084
ACE PLUMBING
contact: 245-8046
41
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Domestic Worker To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 241-2179
MAITRE D HOTEL • A self-motivated, highly detail oriented Maitre D Hotel is required to work at a variety of luxury villas. He/ she must be able to use their own initiative and have an excellent command of English • The successful candidate must preferable possess 5 years F & B experience in a luxury resort hotel or high-end restaurant and will be responsible for the overall dining experience of our guests. • This position involves the ability to supervise and train staff and set standards of excellence within the villas as well as working alongside staff Successful candidate must be willing to do the following: • Work flexible and often long hours, weekends and holidays • Have a valid TCI Driver’s License • Work with the chef to maintain the cleanliness and proper sanitation of the kitchen at all times including deep cleaning of appliances, pots and pans, kitchen tools etc, • Exercise good cost control presenting monthly monitoring and replenishment of stocks and supplies • Computer literate is essential with the ability to record and present invoices and purchases in an accurate manner
Please respond with resume details to: tcielite2014@gmail.com or P.O. Box 143
11172
42
Sports Interational
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Paris Metro racist abuse victim calls for Chelsea fans’ punishment THE man prevented from boarding a Paris Metro train by Chelsea football fans chanting racist slogans has called for them to be punished. The 33-year-old, named as Souleymane S, told France’s Le Parisien: “These people, these English fans... should be locked up.” A video shows him trying to get on a Metro carriage but being pushed off. A group of people can be heard singing: “We’re racist, we’re racist and that’s the way we like it.” The footage was obtained by the Guardian, which reported that the incident happened at RichelieuDrouot station in the centre of the French capital on Tuesday ahead of a Champions League match. ENGLISH FANS In the interview with Le Parisien, Souleymane S said he had not been particularly surprised by the abuse because he “lives with racism”. The father of three, a FrenchMauritanian born in Paris, said he had not understood what the fans were saying but that he knew he was being targeted because of the colour of his skin. Transport officers arrived but only wanted to make sure there was not a fight taking place. He said he had no idea he was being filmed, and had not told anyone about the incident. “What could I tell my children? That daddy was shoved around on the Metro because he is black? “That would be pointless.” But he said that now the incident had emerged publicly he had the confidence to file a police complaint. “These people, these English fans, need to be found and punished,
Bolt previously had indicated that he would end his storied career after the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Usain Bolt plans to retire in 2017 Chelsea fans on a Paris metro after preventing a black man from joining the train. (Photograph: Paul Nolan/The Guardian)
and should be locked up,” he added. “What happened should not go unpunished.” HATE SPEECH The incident follows long-standing controversy over racism in football generally. Although the episode is believed to have involved British fans, the comments made by Souleymane S also come amid disquiet over increasing intolerance in France. Publishing a report on Tuesday, Nils Muiznieks, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, said France needed to take “urgent” action to combat abuse. “Despite advances in legislation and measures to combat intolerance and racism, discrimination and hate speech not only persist in France but are on the rise,” he said. London’s Metropolitan Police
has said it is taking the Paris Metro incident “very seriously”. In a statement it said it would assist the French authorities to identify the people involved and support them in any action they chose to take. Chelsea FC said it would help police, and any fans involved faced a ban. A spokesman for the club said the fans’ actions had “no place in football or society”. British expatriate Paul Nolan, who filmed the incident on his phone, told the BBC it was an “ugly scene” and “very aggressive”. Speaking on Radio 4’s Today programme he said he could hear mentions of World War Two as well as the racist chanting. One voice is heard on the video singing: “Chelsea, Chelsea, Chelsea.” (BBC)
Clarke will return against Bangladesh AUSTRALIA captain Michael Clarke will return from injury in Saturday’s World Cup match against Bangladesh. Clarke had surgery on his hamstring less than two months ago and was set a deadline of this weekend if he was to take any part in the World Cup. He has come through two warmup matches, scoring 98 runs, and coach Darren Lehman confirmed the news. Clarke 33, will replace George Bailey, who led Australia to victory over England last week. He suffered two injuries to his left hamstring in 2014 before tearing his right hamstring while fielding in the first Test against India on 13 December. He even went so far as to suggest
USAIN Bolt plans to retire after the 2017 world championships in London, the record-setting Olympic sprinter told British newspaper The Daily Mail. Bolt previously had indicated that he would end his storied career after the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. But the six-time Olympic gold medal winner acknowledged to The Daily Mail that his sponsorship commitments have forced him to continue sprinting
until 2017. “That was the initial plan [to retire after the Rio Games],” Bolt told The Daily Mail. “But my sponsor has asked me to go on for another year, to 2017 and London. “I’ll be doing one event, the 100. I’ve already discussed it with my coach. I can concentrate on that, and on retiring on a winning note.” Bolt, 28, is the world-record holder in the 100M, 200M and 4x100M relay. (ESPN)
Lewis Hamilton (right) had a fierce battle with teammate Nico Rosberg last season.
Hamilton and Rosberg: Lessons learned, says Mercedes’ boss
Michael Clarke, 33, will replace George Bailey, who led Australia to victory over England last week.
that the injury may have ended his career. But, by 24 December, he stated
his desire to be fit for the World Cup and returned to action in grade cricket on 31 January. (BBC)
MERCEDES motorsport boss Toto Wolff says lessons have been learned about the fierce rivalry between team-mates Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. The pair clashed on occasions last year as they battled for the world title, won by Hamilton at the final race. “The team never expected it to be any different but we’ve learned a lot from last year,” said Wolff. “We’ve learned from working with each other, analysing mistakes, and we will be trying to do things better in 2015.” Wolff accepts the rivalry could
again have its bitter moments this year as they both battle for the championship, but says they are well equipped to deal with them. “We were well aware last year they could run into difficult moments,” said Wolff. “We are very well aware this could happen this year as well.” Tempers flared between Hamilton and Rosberg, who were childhood friends, at a number of races last season, notably in Monaco and Spa. It was at Spa where Rosberg collided into Hamilton, testing the patience of Wolff and non-executive chairman Niki Lauda.
February 21-27, 2015
Sports National
43
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Westbrook almost catches Wilt, wins 2015 All-Star Game MVP
Darren Clarke played in five successive Ryder Cups between 1997 and 2006, losing only once, and has been part of winning teams as a vice captain in 2010 and 2012.
Clarke named Europe’s Ryder Cup captain for 2016 battle DARREN Clarke is Europe’s new Ryder Cup captain. The 46-year-old has been tasked with maintaining the continent’s dominance in golf’s biennial battle with the United States, Europe having won six of the last seven installments. Clarke played in five successive Ryder Cups between 1997 and 2006, losing only once, and has been part of winning teams as a vice captain in 2010 and 2012. The Northern Irishman was
chosen ahead of Spain’s Miguel Angel Jimenez, who has featured in four Ryder Cups as a player, winning two. He has been vice captain three times, winning all of them. “I am naturally extremely proud to be selected as European Ryder Cup captain for 2016,” Clarke told the European Tour’s official website. “The Ryder Cup has been a massive part of my life and my career, so to have the chance to lead Europe next year is a huge honor.
RUSSELL Westbrook almost caught Wilt. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard scored 41 points in 26 minutes in Sunday’s All-Star Game at Madison Square Garden, falling just short of Wilt Chamberlain’s all-time record of 42 points (in 37 minutes), set in 1962. Westbrook, the biggest reason the West won 163-158, treated the game like his own personal dunk contest. He compiled a hell of a highlight reel in just the first half, mixing those devastating drives with three consecutive 3s. Perhaps he even attacked the basket too hard, as a thunderously missed slam early in the game could have helped him make history. Postgame, Westbrook said he wasn’t gunning for it at the end of the game, but lamented his “six or seven” missed layups. His teammates were talking about it on the bench, but they weren’t force-feeding him the ball. Aside from Chamberlain and Westbrook, the only other player to reach 40 points in this setting is Michael Jordan, who did it in 1998. “It’s definitely an honor to be grouped with those two guys, especially in an All-Star Game,” Westbrook said. This was Westbrook at his furious best. He mean-mugged after baskets, he threw his arms in the air in disgust after misses. It was everything that people love and hate about him, but the numbers certainly gave his supporters more ammunition. The general intensity level in MSG was not high for most of the night, but Westbrook can’t help himself. He can’t coast. Funny, he said earlier this weekend that he
Russell Westbrook flies toward his AllStar Game MVP award. (USATSI).
wanted to have a relaxing stay in New York. “I found a way to get my rest during timeouts, halftime and when I was on the bench,” Westbrook joked. In the this would only happen to Russell Westbrook department, a reporter asked LeBron James what advice he would give the four-time All-Star. “Be Russell Westbrook,” James said. “Stop caring about what everybody else thinks. So he don’t have to change.” “Just be yourself,” he continued. “That’s all. That’s all that matters. Russell Westbrook is one of the best talents, [most] gifted talents
this game has ever seen. He goes out every night and proves that. He shows it. I don’t need to tell him anything.” It’s quite something that the best player on the planet felt Westbrook needed to be defended, especially on a night like this. These are the terms in which we discuss his breathtaking talent, though, and coming close to Chamberlain doesn’t change that. “He’s an unbelievable talent in our league,” James said. “His motor, his athleticism, his demeanor about how he approaches the game, it’s all great. And it’s great for our league. He showed that tonight, showcased it on a big stage.” (CBSSports)
Champions League: Paris Saint-Germain holds Chelsea
The Minnesota Timberwolves rookie earned a perfect 50 on his first two dunks and easily topped Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo in Round 2.
LaVine says he’d pick himself over LeBron in dunk contes ZACH LaVine delivered one of the most impressive dunk contest performances in recent memory on Saturday night. The Minnesota Timberwolves rookie earned a perfect 50 on his first two dunks and easily topped Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo in Round 2. On Sunday, LaVine, 19, said in an interview on SportsCenter that
he thinks he would beat Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James in a dunk contest. “See, I know LeBron’s got some stuff in him, too, that he ain’t showed the world either,” LaVine said. “LeBron’s one of the most freaky athletes of all time, so I don’t know. But, like I said, I’m a confident person, and I never go against my own talent so I’ve got to say me.”
THE Champions League is back -but there were no big winners on the opening night of the knockout round. Paris Saint-Germain was held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Chelsea in the French capital, while Bayern Munich finished goalless in Ukraine with Shakhtar Donetsk. PSG will be the most annoyed -- Laurent Blanc’s side had chance after chance to win the tie and put a dent in Chelsea’s Champions League hopes. In the end, Edinson Cavani’s strike ensured parity after Branislav Ivanovic, the Serbia defender, had given the visitors a first half lead. It could have been so different for the home side had it not been for Thibaut Courtois, the Chelsea goalkeeper. Courtois denied PSG time and time again, much to delight of his manager, Jose Mourino. “We could have lost, so I think the
result is a positive one,” Mourinho told ITV. “I don’t say very good because it depends on the result of the second leg but it is a positive result against a very good team with fantastic technical players. It was a difficult match. Asked if Chelsea got away with it, he added: “When you see the performance of our goalkeeper you have to say yes, he made two or three important saves in the game. “I am happy with the result because two legs is now one leg with everything to be decided at Stamford Bridge.” Mourinho, who is hoping to become the first man to win the competition with three different clubs, cut a relieved figure at the full time whistle. Time and time again the visitors were indebted to its goalkeeper, Courtois, who produced a number
of fine stops to deny the French champion. At just 22, it’s frightening to think how good the Belgian could become. Here, against a PSG side determined to take some sort of lead to Stamford Bridge in three weeks time, he ensured Chelsea got out of jail. Laurent Blanc’s men began the better of the two teams and Courtois was forced into action within the first 10 minutes. Cavani, seemingly constantly linked with a move to England, found space on the left and when his cross was headed powerfully towards goal by Blaise Matuidi, Courtois was forced to fly into action. The Belgian goalkeeper was soon busy again, this time saving from Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the forward’s header bounced towards goal, while Cavani also went close with an effort which was tipped away.
44
Sports National
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
Garland’s 4X400M team shatters school’s relay record ANGELO Garland anchored his school, the Texas A&M University, to a new record in the 4X400M relay this week at the Southland Conference Indoor Championships in the USA. The sophomore, who had broken his 400M national record in his first meet this season, split 47.8s on Tuesday to lead his team to 3:14.80, which is almost three seconds faster than the previous record. For Garland he was not as
successful in his individual meets. SLOW HEAT Garland won his 400M heat with ease, but a lack of competition resulted in him running 49s flat, which was over a second faster than the second place finisher. With that time, the national record holder (48.44s) did not make the finals. In the 200M he was off his PB by 0.01 seconds (22.32s).
Defending champions Jericho Baptist Church opened the 2015 season with a 5-2 win.
Church Co-Ed Softball League:
Defending champs record opening win Defending champions of the Provo Church Slow Pitch Co-Ed Softball League Jericho Baptist Church avoided an early scare against the ever improving Roman Catholic Church when the 2015 season swung off this week in Providenciales.
In the opener the Catholic Church were ahead 2-1 until the bottom of the fourth, but four runs in that innings propelled Jericho to a 5-2 win. Also in action were Bethany Baptist and St. Monica’s Saints. The clash proved to be another thriller.
St. Monica led 6-0 up to the bottom of the third, but Bethany fought back and managed to score six runs, but in the end St. Monica’s Saints were able to score again for a 7-6 win. Action was set to continue on Thursday evening.
PABA Night League:
Stallions gallop to huge win DEFENDING champions of the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League, the Grand Turk Stallions returned to their dominant position with an emphatic win over the HAB Sonics when league action continued recently at the Gus Lightbourne, Sports Complex court in Providenciales. New acquisition Enrico Smith made a grand entrance (through dunks and overall excellent plays) for the Stallions with a game high 15 points, five rebounds and three steals in the 36-point win (88-52). Teammate Tamaurri Lightbourne powered his way Angelo Garland led his relay team to a new 4X400M school record.
to 12 points and 10 boards to go with his four assists, while Levard Missick finished with 13 points, six rebounds and two assists. Ray Harris just missed on a double-double after scoring nine points to go with his 10 rebounds. For the Sonics, the trio from the TCIPS were again dominant. Darly Francois scored 15 points and pulled down five rebounds while Ranguel Suero scored 10 points to go with his six assists and three steals and Jose de las Santos battled well for the board after pulling down 10 rebounds to go with his nine points.
In another clash the Five Cays Knights defeated the Steelers 62-48 after an outstanding board presence. Mark Handfield and Andy John pulled down 10 and 12 rebounds apiece to go with their nine and six points, but it was the dependable Andujar Gardiner (16 points, two rebounds and four steals) and Petrallo Russell (17 points, six steals and four boards) who did the bulk of the scoring. The Steelers were led by Wesley Cherry, who continues to improve, with 15 points, nine rebounds, one block and two steals.
February 21-27, 2015
Sports National
45
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
New TCI CWGA president looking to work with all stakeholders NEWLY appointed TCI Commonwealth Games Association president Alvirto Smith is confident that the way forward is to involve all stakeholders. The national track and field coach, who was appointed to the top post two Saturdays ago in Grand Turk said: “We intend to work more closely with the NGB’s and the TCIG Sports Department for the betterment, growth and development
of sports in the TCI.” Inspector Smith said that building relationships would help the TCI in the long run, as our nation continues to push forward in sports. “Communions is one of the key factors in need of improvement, and as such we will do our best to keep positive relationship with all parties in the world of sports.” The once dominant Smith still holds national records in the pole
Delano Williams finished second overall in the open 400M dash.
Williams beats Weir and BailyCole in 400M
the 4X100M relay, finished fifth in the event in a time of 47.36s, while Bailey-Cole finished 14 overall in 48.65s. NOT PLEASED Despite the second placed finish the Great Britain sprinter Williams, was not happy with the lane draw (he ran from lane one) or the straight finals race. The former world junior 200M gold medallist said that his coach Neil Harrison has opted for him to run a flat 400M at the Gibson Relays this month end.
HARD WORK Earlier this month Smith took over the top post from Rita Gardiner and he was graceful in his acceptance speech. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the past president, Mrs. Rita Gardiner and her team for their hard work and dedication to the office of the TCI CGA, especially for reinstating the TCI as a member of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) in 1998, after 20 years of dormancy, and for obtaining autonomy in 2006, which gave the TCI full membership with the CGF. We look forward to the many tasks at hand and intend to work above and beyond to take the TCI further in the world of sports and healthy living.” Information from Grand Turk indicates that the turnout for the AGM was the largest to date for the TCI CWGA. The new executive will run the association for the next four years.
The new association:
Camperdown Classic:
TCI born Delano Williams blew away world rated sprinters Warren Weir and Kemar BailyCole in last Saturday’s 400M race at the Camperdown Classic in Jamaica. Williams, who was the top Racers Track Club athlete in the race, finished second overall with a time of 46.86s. The event was won by World Championships 4X400M relay silver medallist Javon Francis with a time of 46.36s. Weir, who helped Jamaica to gold at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow in
vault (2.80M), the decathlon (4536 points) and indoor records in the 1000M (3:03.83s), the 60M hurdles (9.69s), the pole vault (2.74M), the shot put (8.87M) and the heptathlon (3575 points).
Alvirto Smith will run the TCI Commonwealth Games Association for the next four years.
President: Mr. Alvirto Smith Vice President: Mrs. Vanessa MoyceGardiner Secretary General: Mrs. Rita Gardiner Assistant Secretary General: Mrs. Edith Skippings Treasurer: Ms. Edith Cox Assistant Treasurer: Mr. Fredrick Braithwaite Coaching Representative: Mr. Keith Burant Athletes Representative: Mr. Willah Gray Public Relations Officers: Mr. Levard Missick (Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos) Ms. Morgan Luker (Providenciales) Mr. Donavan Garvey (North and Middle Caicos)
46
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015
LAND FOR SALE In beautiful Bottle Creek, North Caicos
.46 acres overlooking the creek, spanning King Road and Windsor Road
QUICK SALE
CALL 232-3508 or 946-4664
February 21-27, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
47
48
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
February 21-27, 2015