TCWN January 10 - 16, 2015 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 29 | No. 02 | January 10 - 16, 2015

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reshuffle Three ministers of Government have retained their portfolios while the other three have been assigned to different ministries, in a mid-term PAGE  5 Cabinet reshuffle of the Rufus Ewing-led Government.

Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale, accompanied by Acting Deputy Police Commissioner, Rodney Adams, inspects the guard during Monday’s opening of the Supreme Court in Providenciales.

Murdered teen’s family appeal for witnesses PAGE  7

Records show less criminal prosecutions in 2014 PAGE  8

PAGE 

Gas and power prices remain high

PAGE  12

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Supreme Court 2015 session formally opens after seven years BY DELANA ISLES ON MONDAY (January 5), the local judiciary held its first formal opening of the Supreme Court since 2007 with a ceremony and guard of honour at the Myrtle Rigby courthouse in Providenciales. The opening, which marks the start of the new legal year, was moved by a motion presented by Attorney General (AG) Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles and supported by leaders and members of the legal fraternity. In attendance were Premier Rufus Ewing, Finance Minister Washington Misick, Governor’s Appointed Member in parliament John Phillips, and PDM Chairman Clarence Selver, Judge Joan Joyner, magistrates, other members of the Bar and court staff. Additionally, elected members who are also members of the Bar were in attendance including Education Minister Akierra Missick, Border Control Minister DonHue Gardiner and Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. The AG commended RamsayHale for reintroducing the practice, which she said commemorates the principles of justice and the rule of law.

For the year ahead, the Chambers has a heavy legislative drafting programme, which the AG revealed is currently being prepared. The programme is intended to set out the Government’s legislative agenda for the year ahead. These include new domestic insurance provisions, trust law reform, immigration law reform, criminal law and procedure reforms, an employment bill to repeal and replace the current law with substantial reforms and small medium enterprise proposals to encourage local business. Also an Attorney General’s reference bill to enable questions to be referred to the court, new and substantial anti-domestic violence provisions, more elaborate provision to provide for the maintenance of children, detailed family guardianship custody and access to children provisions, better provision for child (care and adoption) and new provisions relating to child and juvenile justice. As well as the completion of work on the long consulted new legal profession provisions to reform the law in this area to provide for better accountability and effectiveness in areas such as the training of local attorneys and continuous education

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

Premier Rufus Ewing and Attorney General, Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles along with other members of the Bar during the march-past

generally, handling client accounts, requirements relating to good practice for insurance coverage, solvency and discipline. The Attorney General said that on the issue of facilities, it was noted that the increasing reliance on video-conference or remote testimony, in both domestic as well as mutual assistance in criminal cases, would be greatly hampered if the facilities at the courts were not of an acceptable standard or were not well maintained. “The Government is committed to ensuring the proper resourcing of the courts and it is hoped that improvements in this area will shortly be realised. The volume of civil and commercial litigation has markedly increased and important work is being done on establishing an accessible repository of judicial decisions which would greatly assist civil and commercial litigators’ needs, she added. She also gave assurances of

the Government’s continued commitment to ensuring the required resources for the smooth administration of justice, and that of her Chambers providing quality service and assistance to facilitate the efficient conduct of the business of the courts. Braithwaite-Knowles noted that during 2014, all levels of the courts were incredibly busy and accomplished much, notwithstanding some challenges. “2014 can only be described as another daunting year for the legal profession in the Turks and Caicos Islands. A year in which there was more than the usual share of challenges. “Fortunately we were more than able to rise to each challenge and to dispassionately and calmly meet matters head on.” She added that work was completed on the current law revision and that it will issued before the end of the first quarter of 2015. The provision of greater access to

Members of the RTCIPF during the march-past

the laws of the TCI is being explored so as to allow ready access through modern technology to be used in the court room setting, BraithwaiteKnowles said. She stated that the legislative agenda of the past year was very active with the production of 24 ordinances and some 50 pieces of subsidiary legislations. In her remarks, Chief Justice Ramsay-Hale outlined her projects for the year and the accomplishments of 2014. PLANS AND SUCCESSES The development of a court website lists among these projects. “The Bar has been anxious that decisions of the court be published and we have decided in the short term to send every decision of the court to the bar council for distribution but we do hope that in due course that decisions of the court would also be available on the new court website,” continued 

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Ministerial shake-up and new ministry announced BY DELANA ISLES THREE ministers of Government have retained their portfolios while the other three have been assigned to different ministries, in a midterm Cabinet reshuffle of the Rufus Ewing-led Government. The shake-up, which Premier Rufus Ewing assured is by no means an indication of lack of confidence in any minister, was announced on Thursday (January 8) at the Hilly Ewing building in Providenciales. The Premier told the press that the changes will ensure that the Government meets the mandate they have set themselves this year, that of delivering for the people. The Ministry of Government Support Services – previously led by George Lightbourne – will now be headed by Amanda Misick. The Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs – previously under Amanda Misick - is now to be led by George Lightbourne. Lightbourne, under whose current ministry the Telecommunications Commission falls, will retain this department in his new post. Ministry of Health and Human

Services, formerly under Portia Stubbs-Smith will now be taken over by the Premier. Stubbs-Smith will now head the newly formed Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. The changes take effect from January 19. Retaining their portfolios are Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services Akierra Missick; Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, Washington Misick and Minister of Border Control and Labour, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner. As announced by the Premier, there is a second phase to the readjustment of ministries and departments as well as the renaming of some ministries. These will come into effect on April 1 with the passage of the 2015/2016 budget. Ewing stated: “The shuffle is a very positive restructuring of the ministerial government and comes at a critical time in our term in office.” He added that in the past two years, there have been tremendous continued 

Cabinet members minus Minister of Border Control and Labour

Supreme Court 2015 session formally opens after ... continued 

the Chief Justice assured. Legal reforms will also be considered and will include the Court of Appeal Ordinance, which she said needs urgent amendment. “I have already discussed this informally with the Attorney General and I will pursue the matter this year.” There is also the Overseas Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcement) Ordinance which is still not in effect and which is importance to the TCI. She added that the Companies Ordinance will also be looked at as it needs to be amended particularly with respect to the provisions relating to insolvency. She noted that one of the things she had planned to do when she was appointed Chief Justice was

install digital recording at the Providenciales courts. “I earmarked the installation of digital recording equipment as the court administration’s most urgent goal as the anecdotal evidence is that it currently takes 18 months for a transcript to be available for an appeal.” She added that the court is working towards reducing that period from 18 months to not more than three months. She said: “It is our considered view that no one should languish in prison awaiting an appeal because a transcript is unavailable and we are also concerned that persons who have been convicted of serious offences should not be admitted to bail on the ground that they might otherwise serve their prison term

before their appeals are heard.” She added that the necessary funding has since been secured to install digital recording equipment in courtrooms in the Dr Malcolm Building. It is expected to be installed before the first quarter of the year. In the very near future the court will embark on the process of recruiting court reporters with the capability of producing transcripts in real time and with the ability to produce transcripts from the recorded proceedings, the Chief Justice stated. “In the interim, we will continue to make full use of the impressive video and audio recording capabilities of the Myrtle Rigby Court.” Other speakers included Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Angela Brooks.

She spoke of the work of the DPP department over the past year and their hopes of continuing to forge good relations with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. Brooks also made reference to the work load of department, which is only staffed with 10 counsels. She noted that the work can sometimes be “daunting and unbearable because of the increase in crime particularly on Providenciales.” She also spoke of improvements in the prosecution of sexual offences, with thanks to the Chief Justice for her help in this regard. “I can honestly say that we are now on track to moving those cases forward and hopefully we will have better results in that area.” Jonathon Katan, who spoke on

behalf of the Bar Council, said among the things the legal fraternity would like to see done, the Companies Ordinance, the establishment of a Statute of Limitations law, as well as a Legal Professions Ordinance are of special importance. Queen’s Counsel, Ariel Misick gave his expectations for the year ahead, in his capacity as the most senior member of the private bar. He spoke of the changes needed within the judiciary for the next few years. He said that he knows that there are competing demands but pointed to the need for there to be essential resources allocated to the judiciary. Misick added that it will take a lot more than pieces of legislation and about five years of continuous legal reform to get it at an acceptable level.

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

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

Hopes for the future

LAST year the Weekly News reported on the rise of women in power, the country’s good credit rating, increased tourist arrivals and a positive financial outlook. Sadly also in the news were sloop arrivals, terrible infrastructure, mosquito viruses, murders and ongoing court cases. What do you think were the highlights or lowlights of 2014 and what are your hopes for this year?

More development

May God continue to bless the nation in 2015 and allow several big hotel and condo developments to start, which are then built to completion and totally sold out. And may action be taken by those in authority including the Lord so that changes are made in our legal system so that our courts provide justice in a prompt, fair, and impartial manner so that any disputes between the people of the TCI can be quickly and fairly resolved. May 2015 be an absolutely fantastic year for the TCI and those who love her and her people!

Improve education

Yes, woman are now leading key areas. The Opposition Leader has produced more than the Government, the lady Attorney General after

her initial political tilt straightened up and earned this paper’s person of the year. Our health, education and home affair gals are a total disappointment accomplishing nothing. The positive budget news is the result of draconian taxation which has raised the cost of living beyond most folks from the civil service to the private workers. The raise in the cost of business licences has cost the county because of the closing down of private business. Most of the taxes are going into the payback of the previous Government debts and the defence of their ministers. The long term debts will keep the county in this position for 20 more years unless we have a government ready to straighten out healthcare, the huge hospital mortgage, a police force in ruination. Someone needs to improve education and provide a future for our youth other than crime.

A huge mess

the good of all and not a few.

A great place

Mistakes of the past cannot be repeated. Petty, tribal, primitive, ill-informed politics, or ‘family-tics,’ looking for ourselves, family and friends cannot be a part of our future. Cronyism and the ideals of ‘Animal Farm’ must be stricken from our future. Governments of the future must now realise that they are elected to look out for all and not some. If so, we would repeat mistakes and get into the mess we are coming out of. Leaving the past behind, tourist arrivals are up and with the airport expansion trends are likely to remain positive. With new found flexibility from debt refinancing the Islands should be able to budget for sloop arrivals, border control, combating crime etc. The Government may be encouraged to engage in deeper dialogue with the Opposition and public to realism a greater idea of what the people want. This can only strengthen democracy, reduce unneeded hubris and move the country forward. It is clear that signs portend for things to get better and the TCI may be getting its much needed second chance.

Mosquito viruses and numerous other health issues are being faced by our families every day. Despite the tremendous increase in cost, now over $12 million per month in healthcare from primary to overseas care has gone down to near desperation. The health minister has no qualifications to minister to the mess created by our Premier when he was the medical leader under PNP. We were promised a financial and clinical audit and received neither. Youth are disappointed and are without hope of employment so they turn to crime and drugs.

The ascension of ladies like Mrs Sonia Bien Aime, Mrs Shonia Been as Acting Permanent Secretary of Finance, the Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Dr Denise Braithwaite Tennant, Her Ladyship the Chief Justice Margaret Ramsey Hale, the Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and of course Her Ladyship the Rt Hon Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles is remarkable for these Islands. They are all young, beautiful, and educated. As the TCI we are moving forward and the Islands couldn’t look any better. Our credit rating is excellent and adds to the testimony of the vigilance of this Government, the pressure of the Loyal Opposition and the eternal strength of our people in the Turks and Caicos Islands. As we endeavour with our Government to retire the balance on the $260 million debt congratulate its achievement on bringing debt below $100 million. Let us resolve to manage this country for

No more mistakes

 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

Ministerial shake-up and new ... continued from 

achievements in each of the ministries and that the efforts of each minister should be applauded. “Their contributions have been impactful and commendable. By swapping ministerial responsibility, we are able to capture a fresh wave of ideas and energy and it is on that momentum that we seek to maintain the pendulum of success,” he added. He stated that the ministers welcome the challenge in this, a critical year in their term in office. “We all are committed to putting our shoulders to the wheel and delivering for the people for which we have promised in our manifesto prior to coming into office.” As of April 1, the changes to the Government structure will include the reshuffling and appointments of permanent secretaries. In the Office of the Premier, the permanent secretary and deputy permanent secretary are Wesley Clerveaux

and Tamera Robinson, respectively. Departments under the office are District Administration, the Agriculture Department, the Dental Department, the Primary Health Care Unit, the National HIV Prevention Unit, the Drug and Mental Health Unit, the National Public Health Laboratory, Emergency Medical Services and the Environmental Health Department. The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services permanent secretary and deputy permanent secretary are Cheryl Ann Jones and Russell Cox, respectively. Departments under this ministry include the Education Administration - Zone 1, Education Department – Zone 1, Education Department – Zone 2, Education Administration – Zone 2, Tertiary and Further Education, Helena J Robinson High School, Clement Howell High School, Raymond Gardiner High School, Marjorie Basden High School, the Youth Department, the Sports Department and the Library Department. The Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Heritage and Culture’s permanent secretary is Desiree Lewis.

The departments that fall under this newly formed ministry are the Gaming Department, the Culture Department, the Protected Areas Department, DECR and Maritime Department, the Tourist Board and the Turks And Caicos National Trust. In the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation and Communication (formerly the permanent environment and home affairs) the permanent secretary and deputy are Ian Astwood and Porsha Clarke, respectively. Departments under this ministry are the Road Safety Department, the Prison Service, the Domestic Fire Department, Social Development and Gender Affairs, the Central Purchasing Unit, the Publishing Department, Postal Services, Radio Turks and Caicos, the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies. Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning (formerly named the Ministry of Government Support Services) permanent secretary and deputy are Susan Malcolm and Desmond Wilson, respectively. Under this ministry the departments are the Planning Department, the Public Works

Department, Engineering and Maintenance Services, Water Undertaking, the Mechanical Services Division, the Project Management Division, the Maintenance Division and the Energy and Utility Department The ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment permanent secretary (acting) and deputy are Shonia Astwood and Arthur Been. The departments are the Budget Office, the Strategic Policy and Planning Unit, the Customs Department, the Revenue Control Unit, the Computer Unit, the Exchange of Information Unit, the Investment Unit, the Port Authority, the TCI Airport Authority, and the Financial Services Commission. The permanent secretary and deputy of the Ministry of Border Control and Employment (formerly Labour) are Clara Gardiner and Sharon Taylor. The departments falling under this portfolio are the Immigration Department, the Employment Services Department, Registration and Citizenship and the Labour Tribunal.

January 10 - 16, 2015

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

“He had so many hopes and dreams” – Kenrick Walters speaks fondly of his brother as his stepmother Lida Walters sits beside

Father Kenneth Walters, Inspector Grantley Williams and Superintendent Clifford Ashton

Murdered teen’s family appeal for witnesses By Rebecca Bird THE DISTRAUGHT family of murdered teenager Kenley Walters made an impassioned appeal this week for witnesses to the brutal incident to come forward. Brother Kenrick Walters, stepmother Lida Walters and father Kenneth Walters all sat before press on Monday afternoon (January 5) as a sign of unity in the bid to find Kenley’s killer/s. “We know there are many that saw what happened and can assist the police with their investigations. We urge you to come forward,” Kenrick told gathered media. Police called the conference at the Police Headquarters on Old Airport Road, Providenciales, to update press and the public on the brutal stabbing at Club 2005 in the early hours of December 27. Little information on the actual incident was forthcoming from the police officers present, who said that the focus of the conference was on the family. Investigating officer Superintendent Clifford Ashton of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was accompanied by lead detective in the case Inspector Grantley Williams. He told gathered media: “On behalf of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) I want to extend my deepest sympathy to the Walters family on the loss of their loved one. “The police cannot solve crimes in isolation, there must be public support and participation. “So we are here to seek the public assistance in bringing to justice the persons responsible for the senseless killing of Kenley Walters. “Kenley Walters was a 19-yearold young man who was loved by his family and on Saturday, December 27, 2014, he was brutally murdered

in the presence of a large crowd of people. “There are people in the community who saw and know what has happened, and there are people in the community who can bring justice to the perpetrators and closure to the Walters family.” He then introduced Kenrick Walters who read a statement on behalf of his family. In an emotive speech he said that it was with “an intense sadness” that he was facing the media to speak about his brother’s death. “Kenley was a good kid,” he said, “he was not involved in any kind of gang, he was not a trouble maker, he had never harmed anyone or had he ever been in trouble with the police. “He was a quiet young man with a caring heart who loved his family very much, and who had a passion for playing basketball. “Those of you who knew him knew of his tremendous talent on the basketball court and of his pleasant and respectful demeanour off the court. “He had so many hopes and dreams. No one had the right to take those away from him. Kenley did not deserve this.” He stressed that his brother was murdered in a public place in front of many eye witnesses. “We know there are many that saw what happened and can assist the police with their investigations. We urge you to come forward. “There are also those who may have learned crucial information about this crime after the fact. We beseech you to come forward.” Kenrick Walters went on to thank those who have already assisted police investigations. “You have given us hope that this terrible injustice will not go unpunished,” he said. “We know that there are others who may be afraid to speak up but

we urge you to be courageous and do the right thing. “Your help could insure that no other family has to endure the suffering that we now feel. Please come forward, we need your help.” He spoke out to the perpetrator/s of the crime and asked them to come forward to face justice. “We cannot understand what dark forces led you down the path of taking an innocent life but despite

the tremendous hurt and loss that we feel, we harbour no hate towards you, we forgive you for what you have done to Kenley and to our family and to this community. We forgive you. “But you have to understand that our forgiveness alone will not be sufficient to save you from the torment and the anguish that you have brought against yourself and those around you for the rest of your

Under the tree

life. “There will be no hope for you, no hiding place, no comfort zone, no escape from the spiritual lean that has now been placed against your life. “We urge you to come forward now, set things right and begin the process of atonement and redemption before your fellow man and most continued 

By Benneth Williams

NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Gas and power prices remain high By Rebecca Bird PETROL prices and power costs still remain high despite earlier Government assurances that they would soon plummet.

Murdered teen’s family appeal ... continued from 

importantly before God.” He thanked the many members of the community who have supported the family throughout the ordeal. “Your prayers and well wishes have lifted our spirits and comforted us in this very difficult time.” Officers responded to multiple reports of violence at the popular club on Aviation Drive at about 3am on Saturday, December 27. A police press release explained: “One victim received several stab wounds and was pronounced deceased. Another victim received a gunshot wound and is in stable condition. “Two other victims received head wounds after being struck by objects.” Police later reported that another man, 24-year-old Andrew Parker from Blue Hills, was stabbed in the abdomen that evening. He is currently being treated at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where he is in a stable condition. On Monday, December 29, investigators charged Emanjoe Forbes, 36, of Kew Town, Providenciales, with his attempted murder. He appeared in Providenciales Magistrate’s Court last week and has been remanded in custody awaiting trial. Police arrested and released two people on bail pending further investigations, and a number of others are in police custody assisting with the murder investigations. Kenley’s murder is thought to be the third of 2014. Robert ‘Robbie’ Been was shot at point blank range in Providenciales in March and the dead body of Quincy Gardiner was found in North Caicos in July.

The cost of gas per gallon was a low of $5.65 this week at some service stations – a small reduction from about $6.50 in August. And the FortisTCI fuel factor cut was from $0.2447 per kilowatt-hour in August last year to $0.2091 in December. According to the Leader of the Opposition the reductions are simply not enough considering that global crude oil prices have hit a five year low. A press release from Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson on Tuesday (January 6) said: “We are concerned that we are not experiencing or seeing a significant savings or reduction in costs at the pumps and also in the provision of electricity.” For five months the value of petroleum has plummeted all over the world and on Wednesday (January 7) it dropped from more than $85 a barrel to below $50 for the first time since May 2009. Slowing global growth and increased supply of oil and gas have pushed prices down in recent weeks.

In the House of Assembly in November Premier Rufus Ewing assured the public that power bills would soon become smaller, and a decrease in the cost of petrol would not be far behind. He said a delay in customers reaping the benefits was likely due to the logistics of getting the fuel from the US to the Bahamas where they offload it onto small ships to come to Turks and Caicos Islands for storage. But this week Cartwright-Robinson said that it has been too long and the consumers should be feeling the impact of the cut price fuel by now. In the United States this week unleaded petrol was an average of $2.18 per gallon and as low as $1.80 in some states. “While we understand the multi-port handling and the cost of transportation to the Islands, we are certain that the price should have been positively impacted by now,” her recent release said. “In the absence of large storage facilities, the lowered costs should have by now been reflected and

In this Downtown garage the unleaded petrol price was $6.19 per gallon this week

Global crude oil prices have plummeted since August last year (www.nasdaq.com)

passed on to the consumer. “And so, we believe that there should have been significant reductions in fuel costs by now.” On Thursday (January 8) the costs of unleaded petrol at the major garages varied by more than $0.30.

At Rubis the cost was $5.87 per gallon while at the Shell garages unleaded petrol was $6.19 per gallon. The Opposition Leader said: “There is no doubt that the cost continued 

In Rubis the unleaded petrol price was $5.87 per gallon this week

January 10 - 16, 2015

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Chief Justice defends registrar as he departs BY DELANA ISLES

Deputy Attorney General, Wynante Adrien-Roberts

New Deputy AG appointed FORMER Solicitor General of the Government of Dominica, Wynante Adrien-Roberts has been appointed as the new Deputy Attorney General. She fills the position vacated in 2013 by now Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles when Huw Shepheard resigned as AG. The appointment was announced on Monday (January 5) by the Attorney General during the opening of the Supreme Court for the new year. “I am pleased to announce that Mrs Wynante Adrien-Roberts has today [Monday] taken up her position as Deputy Attorney General following the February 2014 vacancy,” she said. “Mrs Adrien-Roberts is a thoroughly qualified and experienced attorney having been solicitor general in Dominica for many years before moving to the private bar.” Adrien-Roberts will focus on training and development within the Chambers.

The new deputy is a former lawyer with Pinnacle Law Chambers in Dominica, before which she was Solicitor General of that island. She was also part of the International Business Unit of the Government of Dominica. She has experience in developing legislative regulatory framework for the financial services sector, assess applications for licences to operate offshore financial services, and ensure compliance with international best practices for the financial services sector. Adrien-Roberts is a graduate of the George Washington University, School of Law where she earned her Master of Laws, LLM, international law, business, trade and environmental. She earned her Legal Education Certificate, Law at the Norman Manley Law School, Jamaica. She also attended the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus where she received her LLB, LLM, and Law.

Gas and power prices ... continued 

of fuel which includes the Government’s tax of $1 per gallon contributes to the high cost of living and doing business in these Islands. “There can only be significant benefit to our country’s economy if the providers would pass on their savings.” She went on to urge local merchants to share their savings with the customers. “This can only help the economy which in turn will benefit us all.” In November the Premier said that reductions would initially be felt with the power company FortisTCI and customers’ power bills. “You will see it in your fuel factor which has already dropped,” he said, “and I’ve been told will drop even further as they deplete their supply of higher priced fuel that is stored on island.” In August the fuel factor was $0.2447 per kilowatt-hour, in September it was $0.2366, in October it went down to $0.2305, in November it was $0.2203,

and in December it dropped to $0.2091. Talisha Simons, manager of corporate communications for FortisTCI told the Weekly News on Wednesday (January 7): “We do expect to see further decline in the fuel factor.” Petroleum is a naturally occurring, yellow-to-black liquid found in geologic formations beneath the Earth’s surface, which is commonly refined into various types of fuels. It is formed when large quantities of dead organisms, usually zooplankton and algae, are buried underneath sedimentary rock and subjected to intense heat and pressure. The name petroleum covers both naturally occurring unprocessed crude oil and petroleum products that are made up of refined crude oil. Petroleum is recovered mostly through oil drilling and is refined and separated, most easily by distillation, into a large number of consumer products. These range from gasoline and kerosene to asphalt and chemical reagents used to make plastics and pharmaceuticals.

REGISTRAR of the Supreme Court, David Chetwynd will very soon be departing the Turks and Caicos Islands following what he calls “interesting times” as the administrator of the court system. He told the Weekly News recently that he will be leaving in 10 days (from Monday, January 5) after two and a half years on the job. He refers to his tenure as an interesting time, due in no small part to the tense political atmosphere in the country at the time of his appointment and the recent attacks by lawyers engaged in the corruption trial of former Government ministers. Asked how it has been working in the Islands, he responded: “There’s an ancient Chinese curse and the curse goes, may you live in interesting times and I think I have been living through some interesting times. “It’s been an interesting two and a half years; it’s been a very trying two and a half years. “The work has been difficult because of the resources problem we have and because of other factors which come into play and make the administration of justice itself, so unpredictable.” He noted that it is the nature of lawyers to prefer predictability, and as he could not provide this at all times, things can get a bit upsetting. Asked why nothing was ever said in his defence when the lawyers involved in the corruption case particularly, were angry at him for problems related to transcripts and legal aid fees, Chetwynd stated that he is a judicial officer and it is not his place to respond to things like that. “I can’t get into serious arguments about what’s been said against me or about me, that’s the way it should work.” But Chief Justice, Margaret Ramsay-Hale was not so reticent. During the opening of the Supreme Court 2015 session on Monday (January 5), the Chief Justice came out in defence of the registrar, and further congratulated him on his years of service to the TCI. “Despite his dedication to the court administration, and his efficiency, Mr Chetwynd has been the subject of much, in my view, unwarranted and unfair criticisms in particular in respect of the production of transcripts of proceedings whether in the Court of Appeal or otherwise.” She stated that what was ignored in the “series of personal attacks” on Chetwynd was the fact that his failure to provide transcripts in a timely fashion was a failure of resources. She added that the lack of resources resulted in the recording device at Providenciales Supreme Court deteriorating to the point

David Chetwynd, Registrar of the Supreme Court

where it was impossible to produce transcripts whose pages were not filled line after line with the words “inaudible, inaudible, inaudible.” “I believe that in one case the Court of Appeal allowed an appeal against conviction because there was no reliable transcript of the proceedings.” She added that another issue was that the court reporter in Grand Turk, being the only court reporter, was unable to keep up with the demand for her services with the result that transcripts were not produced in anything resembling a timely fashion.

“It is rare for there to be less than two reporters attached to a single court, let alone one for three courts,” she added. The administration was lucky to have someone with David Chetwynd’s knowledge and ability to serve as registrar, Ramsay-Hale stated. “I thank him on behalf of the judiciary and the court staff for his hard work and support during the time he has been here.” Chetwynd was a registrar and high court judge in the Solomon Islands, before taking up the position in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

New Supreme Court judge appointed A NEW Supreme Court judge will soon be picking up the slack left after the resignation of former Chief Justice Edwin Goldsbrough. Following Goldsbrough’s resignation, then sitting Supreme Court Judge Margaret RamsayHale was appointed as Chief Justice, leaving the post vacant. No name or from where the appointee hails have been announced, but Ramsay-Hale revealed on Monday (January 5), that the new judge is male. Commenting on the appointment she said: “We will have some balance on the bench

and he will be joining the local judiciary in the first week of March.” The other Supreme Court judge is Joan Joyner; she presides over the majority of the criminal cases engaging the court’s attention. Ramsay-Hale, before her ascension, dealt with civil cases primarily. Currently she presides over both civil and criminal cases in the Providenciales and Grand Turk courts. Both Joyner and Ramsay-Hale are from Jamaica.

10 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

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

Thinking development Dear Editor, When we think of development, we often define it in economic terms. We see it as foreign investment, hotels and condos on the beach, creating resort areas, and the creation of modern infrastructure, and of course high or full employment measured in a particular way. It is felt that when these factors are in place other things will follow such as a good education and health system, and the development of a situation where technology plays an important role, and small businesses bloom. But is all this development or spin-offs from certain kinds of activity generated from and by vested interests with their own agenda? A country could have all that is mentioned above but still have high unemployment, an underdeveloped health and education system, unhealthy social relationships and of course, crime. Economic growth is possible without development since a certain unevenness or lop-sidedness could result and sectors of the population will feel left out. And since for their own reasons some entrepreneurs prefer to bring in others of their choice to work for them, there is the case where construction, management, and policy making go on with little local input, although it is often said that locals have a certain kind of attitude towards work. And since politicians want to see physical things in spaces, they welcome what they call development projects, in which some have private interest as well. It also gives the impression they are working on behalf of the people. Sometime ago in Caribbean circles, it was thought development would come about through encouraging foreign investment with the government providing certain incentives. But this did not work out as was hoped. There was a lot of physical infrastructure but profits were not reinvested in the host country but repatriated abroad. Wages were not competitive and people lived from paycheque to paycheque while a large class of the unskilled preyed on those they thought had made it.

And there was little contribution to the growth and advancement of the society and its institutions. But the idea of corporate social responsibility has emerged, where businesses have come to realise that contributing to the society and its various institutions is good for business. And this has resulted in businesses having a positive image in the society, and being sensitive to its needs. We have seen in the TCI where many businesses have contributed to schools and other social organisations, and even award scholarships to their employees to enhance their competence. This is a positive form of development initiative and Government as an institution should give businesses here more incentives in terms of lower tax rates or none at all to encourage further contribution to the development process, since these companies will hire more locals, enhance the infrastructure of the country, and see themselves as integral to the country, its people, and its future. The corporate sector has the capital, skills, knowledge, and expertise to manage entrepreneurial activities on a win-win basis for itself and the country’ inhabitants. People will then be in a situation where they can do more for themselves without depending on politicians. They will become more business savvy and the opportunity will present itself for them to become small business owners. So government must adopt more business friendly policies, not make the corporate sector feel uncertain, or jittery, and work positively with business to achieve its goals, and that of the country as well. It is business that contributes to better living conditions, a healthier environment, better education and health facilities, so that an economically secure country emerges with healthy, productive employees. Government must also fast-track

projects, get more competent people to advise it on effective policies, and shorten the time between discussions, agreement, and implementation of projects. The population will then not be in a state of wait and see, because it will know that within a certain time frame, things will kick off. And development and growth will happen together because business, the government, and the people will become economic and social partners. Government should also not give the impression of being unfriendly to business. It should involve business in the discussion, preparation, and implementation of its development plans, so that it would be clear where it is going, and the strategies to utilise to get there. The corporate sector is the engine of development and progress for any country. Once it sees the Government is serious, and regards business as a valued partner in the progress of the country, and once the ends of business are respected, then development and growth are intertwined to the benefit of all partners. Business delivers what the country needs, and Government should act to realise the needs of its business partners. Government cannot manage an economy on its own. It lacks the skills, knowledge, attitude, and cando that business has. For real, positive development to take place then Government would have to become more conscious of what business is all about and adopt its methods, techniques, and strategies. The people should also be educated concerning the positive, developmental role business can play in transforming the country through jobs, being socially responsible, and in lending its expertise. When a government is business friendly, all things are possible, and all possibilities become reality to the benefit of all, in an ethical and principled way. Oliver Mills Wheeland, Providenciales

The mental war As time passes, The mentalities of our young men are diminished, So sad to say, before we even began the race, our youths are finished. Gunshots, stab wounds, a bruised face with some broken bones, Is that how we resolve our issues? Got somebody’s momma drying her eyes over a box of tissue. Turks and Caicos death records ain’t lookin good, More youths are dying, whatever happened to growing old in the neighbourhood. Reppin street gangs with your homeboys, Spending money on drugs than your daughter’s toys, Hope we realise violence ain’t the better choice, We need a change ima be that voice. We all got a decision to make, Whether we wanna live or be another murder case, Our island is too small for all this, Destroying our lands bit by bit, Let’s make a change and let’s make it quick, I don’t wanna go on Facebook and see another RIP pic. Wanna rep your hood and get some street cred? Let’s find another way to do it instead, Let’s put the guns down and make this bread, How many more gotta die for us to understand, That there’s more pride in being the bigger man. What's all this separation? This lil rock is way too small for so much gang segregation, Whatever happened to being united and reppin’ one common nation. I long for the day it’s safe to walk the streets, Take a walk thru my neighbourhood with nobody following me. No reason to think I might get robbed, Cause all my young brothers got a decent job. I ain’t a gangbanger and I’m doing just fine, Got a good job, loving family and a woman to call mine, Nah I ain’t better than you or him, But I know the line between life and death is super thin. I understand what the struggle like, Waking up in the morning wondering how you gon pay this light, But before you grab a gun let’s sit down and think, Of all the days that you may missed, Of how your mama might never feel your kiss, Of how another man might raise your kids. Let’s make yesterday our last day of being a thug, let’s make our streets safe again. We can’t do this without each and every one of us accepting that the war isn’t out on the streets, the war is mental. What angers us isn’t our brothers, but what he has. Let’s be different, let’s make a place for our younger brothers and sisters to feel safe in. Rest in Peace to Kenley Walters and all the other victims of gang related violence. Much love. Ralf Arisnord Kew, North Caicos

January 10 - 16, 2015

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

REAL TALK

It’s time for Real Talk

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

IT IS not a fallacious statement to say that TCI people like to talk. So much so we have been accused of talking of things that should not be talked about. However, the irony of this opinion is that there have been too many times in our country when we needed to have our voices heard; we remained silent. Moreover, much of the talk that covers the airwaves, bar room, hang out spots, salons and domino tables have been so polarising and politicised, that it often offers very little real solutions to the issues that have been plaguing our country. We hear people talking; but are they really saying something important? Are the views being expressed represent the people who cannot represent themselves? Are the conversations we are having in this country transforming our societies? It is time for us to have real conversations in this country. We need to have conversations that lead to positive solutions to everyday problems. Additionally, we need conversations that not only inspire change but also deliver real change. Real Talk is about real issues about real people. I do not intend to please any organisation or specific agenda; but rather offer to this country an honest and

By Jas Walkin

Jas Walkin was born with a physical disability due to complications from birth 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. Through support from his family, teachers and the community he graduated as valedictorian of Raymond Gardiner High School and became a graduate teacher for the past last nine years.

fair perspective on the issues in our country. We have been suffering from a lack of realism in this country for too long. Real Talk will not compromise with the truth or negotiate with halftruths. There are a lot of people who are aware of what is going on in this country but are not able to express themselves as confidently as they would like and as a result they rely on others to be their voices. Real Talk will be a voice those people. This country has real issues that are affecting real people. However, it seems as if the people who should be concerned about those issues are more concerned about themselves and the things that make their lives better. Real Talk is for people who feel passionate about this country and recognise the need to fight for it. We are living in some serious times which call for serious people. While there are those who may be content with our present situations; there are some people who are not prepared to accept our current challenges as the best this country

has to offer. There are some people who believe in this country’s ability to right the wrongs and get on a progressive path towards the future. Not just any future, but a future in which our best hopes and dreams for our nation becomes a reality. In order for us to reach those goals, we will have to start being real about the obstacles we face and what it takes to overcome those obstacles. This is time for Real Talk for real people. In the words of pop artist Katy Perry we have bitten our tongues and held our breath for too long because we were afraid to rock the boat. Well, my friends; the boat needs to be rocked because our people have been held down for too long and so it is time for people to hear us roar. Just like a lion roars to make his presence felt in the jungle, we need to roar and make our presence felt in our country. Real Talk is ready to ROAR!

COMMENTARY

Regressive not progressive IN THE democracies of today’s world the label ‘progressive’ denotes political parties leaning towards socialism and in the extreme, communism. However whenever this progressive movement has brought a country closer to socialism, serious problems have emerged. The Soviet Union, a socialist communist nation, went bankrupt and disintegrated. The USA which has moved in this direction is now $18 trillion in debt. Further the USA unfriendly business climate created by the progressives has caused the closing and exportation of numerous businesses. The journey to the left in the TCI began in earnest in 2003. The rights to real employment were replaced with non-productive

government socialistic jobs with no job description and little if any work assigned. Foreign workers took the real jobs which then dried up for TC Islanders. Within a couple of years the TCI was bankrupt. Millions in debt and billions of unfunded new obligations caused a British takeover. Make no mistake the UK is also progressive but not yet as extreme as TCI's PNP party. The TCI’s progressive politicians promote this idea because it creates a family dynasty where they become the rich elite and everyone else depends on the Government to feed them. Employees in the private industry or the government face tax after tax. Their income taxes, (called national insurance and national health insurance contributions) go up. Soon more income tax increases will be faced. The now extreme

customs duty tax and income taxes result in higher prices for food and fuel. The whole concept of ‘progressive’ becomes ‘regressive’ as the standard of living slips rapidly backwards. People’s real income is diminished or eliminated and needed public services of education and healthcare go unfunded and/or mismanaged. Meanwhile the progressive politicians in charge drive fancy autos, take free trips and have their every cost of living paid by the people’s extreme taxes. The progressive politicians spend their time setting up monopolistic business interests. Business with no competition and lifetime incomes guaranteed when progressives lose elections. The TCI’s voters poked a stick in the eye of the British after

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 UK held an inquiry into the radical actions of the 2003 to 2009 ‘progressive’ government. Then voters gave us back the same party and the same family dynasty that the inquiry halted. The British reaction is that we are now forced to face layers of taxation to pay off the progressives’ debts and live with the monopolistic actions of Provo Stevedores, InterHealth Canada, a huge hospital mortgage, Canadian Fortis and another possible

phone monopoly. Millions removed annually from the people’s purse. The 11-year-old civil service continues untrained and angry with their diminished spendable income. The TCI has not progressed, it has permanently regressed. The monopolies and family dynasty now guarantee we will continue going backwards for 20 more years.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Records show less criminal prosecutions in 2014 BY DELANA ISLES COURT records have shown a decline in the number of criminal cases brought before the Supreme Court for the last three years. On Monday (January 5) Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale revealed the statistics during the opening of the Supreme Court for 2015. In 2014 there were 79 sufficiency hearings, while in 2013 and 2012 there were 109 and 104, respectively. The number of criminal cases brought before the court in 2014 was 58, a significant decline from the 87 in 2013 and 96 in 2012. The Chief Justice noted that the decrease in the number of criminal prosecutions brought between 2012 and 2014 is statistically significant. “I am not sure whether it speaks to a reduction in crime - anecdotal evidence would suggest otherwise or whether it is a change in police or prosecution policy,” she observed.

She added that of the 82 cases which involved 88 defendants, 33 of these cases were discontinued by the Crown, whether by entering a nolle prosequi (unwilling to pursue) or offering no evidence or withdrawing the preferred charges. She stated that: “Without further inquiry, it is impossible to say why the Crown decided not to pursue the charges, whether because of reluctant witnesses or otherwise, but it is significant that 33 cases were discontinued at or before trial.” She said the bringing these charges led to significant costs incurred by the administration for legal aid and administration of the process, including court time. Adding that if the cases had no legal merit to begin with then those prosecutions only served to clog a system that is already overloaded and waste resources, which are already stretched to breaking point. She noted that 82 legal aid certificates were issued at a cost to

the administration of $450,000. The records also show that an additional 10 cases were stopped by the court and a not guilty verdict directed. Ramsay-Hale said this points to the insufficiency of evidence in a further ten matters. In all, of the 82 criminal cases in the Supreme Court for 2014, there were 17 findings of guilt by the jury and 10 pleas of guilty. This indicates that only 33 percent of the prosecutions in serious cases resulted in a conviction. In 2014, the Supreme Court dealt with 67 cases involving 78 defendants. In only 49 of those cases, the court at the sufficiency hearing found that over 25 percent of those arrested and charged with offences to be tried on information, were charged on evidence that was legally insufficient, the Chief Justice revealed. “Nothing I say is intended as criticism, rather, it is hoped that this

Benneth Williams protests against the high price of petrol

Resident protests fuel prices A PROVIDENCIALES resident outraged by the high price of petrol took to the streets on Thursday (January 8) to protest. Benneth Williams of Leeward held a banner which read ‘Gas prices 2 high in TCI’ in the central reservation on Leeward Highway. Cars honked in support as they passed his sign as he stood for several hours in the midday sun. Earlier this week Williams told the Weekly News: “Turks and Caicos Islanders consumers are being bombarded with media reports the price of crude oil has plummeted to a five year low. “It continues to befuddle sensible Turks Islanders when they are able to observe a precipitous fall in the price in others country and NOT in Turks

and Caicos Islands. “I am positive Turks Islanders are appreciative of the occasional five or ten cents fuel reduction given by these companies in the price of fuel however the time has come to question fuel price at the pump.” He stressed that companies cannot continue to say the price at the pump to consumer is correlated to the deal date, given the length of time the world fuel price has been trending down and the significant movement. “Turks and Caicos have not seen a sensible relationship in the domestic price at the pump given the world movement,” he told the newspaper. “People in this country are hurting and regular citizens have all shouted disappointment at the situation with no sensible response from the power

that be.” He stressed that companies need to pass on the real price of fuel to consumers, taxpayers, regular citizens deserve to be treated with respect. “The Government is elected to serve at the pleasure of it people the electorate.” On Wednesday (January 7) the cost of petroleum dropped from more than $85 a barrel to below $50 for the first time since May 2009. In the TCI this week the cost of gas per gallon was a low of $5.65 at some service stations – a small reduction from about $6.50 in August. In the United States unleaded petrol was an average of $2.18 per gallon and as low as $1.80 in some states.

information will lead to a review to try and ascertain where the weaknesses in the criminal justice system lie,” she added. She also pointed to the delay in time between sufficiency hearings and trials. “Hopefully by next year we will be able to say how long it is taking us to dispose of criminal matters in the Supreme Court.” She added that the target for custody cases should be no more than four months after sufficiency hearing and six months in bail cases. CIVIL CASE On the civil side, she revealed that in 2014, 272 cases were filed, compared to 222 in 2013 and 259 in 2012. Probate cases for the year were 47, while in 2013 it was 35 and 41 in 2012. Divorces kept a more or less

steady figure for the three years evaluated. In 2014, there were 61 cases, in 2013 there were 62 and in 2012 there were 61. There was only one winding up petition in 2014, while in 2013 there were five and before that four in 2012. There were 405 hearings in the civil division of the court including 15 hearings in contentious probate matters and 17 relating to insolvency proceedings, Ramsay-Hale said. Meanwhile, appeals filed from civil cases in the magistrates’ court were three in 2014, two in 2013 and six in 2012. Criminal appeals from the magistrates’ court for 2014 were nine and 22 in 2013 and 2012. Appeals to the Court of Appeal were 23 civil cases in 2014 and 24 criminal cases in the same year.

Provo census report is 90 percent complete THE LATEST census report for Providenciales is nearly complete and the detailed report for the other islands is available online now. That’s according to Washington Misick, Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, who explained the status of the survey in the latest parliamentary session. He was responding to a question from Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson on December 15 last year. She asked what the status of the Strategic Policy and Planning Department’s census report was and when the public might expect to see the detailed findings. He said: “The detailed census report of the islands Grand Turk to Parrot Cay is currently available on the welcome page of the Statistics Department website www.sppdtci.com.” The minister went on to say that the report for Providenciales, the most populated island, is 90 percent complete. “Because although the data file has been properly cleaned, the final report is still in the fine tuning stage.” He said the timing of the release is set to coincide with current work taking place on

the TCI population projection which will be completed “any day now”. “The department is currently working with an international consultant hired by an international agency with expertise in this area to project the population of the TCI over the next 10 to 15 years.” He said the consultant will also provide further training to the staff in continuously updating the population data for TCI. Misick explained that the website, which is still under construction, was built by a recent young graduate. “I can recall when my Government took office two years ago, we met this unit with two members. “I personally visited this department and promised additional staff because I believe this department is far too vital not to be staffed. “Over the past two years I am proud to say my Government was able to build this unit which currently has six members with the promise of more persons to be added. “I am also proud to say all of the members of this department are Turks and Caicos Islanders and something we should all be proud of.”

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NEWS 13

Statute of Limitations legislation still being drafted Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay Hale and Jerwina Taylor

Local attorney called to the Bar

ANOTHER Turks Islander joined the ranks of the local legal profession on December 22. Jerwina Taylor was admitted to the Bar of Turks and Caicos Islands by way of a hearing, which took place at the Supreme Court on Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Taylor’s call was presided over by Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay Hale. The application for Jerwina’s call to the Bar was made by her sponsor Attorney George Missick, whom is a partner in Karam and Missick Attorneys at Law. At the said hearing, Missick submitted that Taylor had been employed at Karam and Missick for a nine month period where she had undergone extensive training. He further commented that she is hard working and competent and that he was confident that she would be an asset to the local legal profession.

The CJ then granted the order affording Taylor a licence to practice law in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Taylor was subsequently required to take an oath where she swore to conduct herself in the practice of law as an attorney and officer of the Supreme Court of the Turks and Caicos Islands and to comply with its standards, professional ethics, etiquette and the code of professional conduct. At 25 years old, she is currently the youngest member of the TCI Bar. Taylor obtained her undergraduate degree in law (LLB) in 2012 from Oxford Brookes University and further obtained her postgraduate diploma in 2014 from the Oxford Institute of Legal Practice, both of which are located in the United Kingdom. She particularly enjoys litigation, employment law and family law.

THE MUCH anticipated statute of limitations legislation is still in the drafting stage but is expected to be tabled in the House of Assembly during the first half of this year. This is according to Premier Rufus Ewing, who spoke with the Weekly News on Monday (January 5). He stated that this is one of things that the Government has on its agenda for the year, as well as a number of other pieces of legislation that are also in draft. “We have already stratified the legislative calendar in terms of which dates we will have House of Assembly meetings and which legislations we will try to get there. “These are just guesstimates because we don’t always meet the deadline head on but hopefully by the first half of this year we will have the Statute of Limitation Bill before the House,” he added. As it currently stands, there is no set time frame for anyone to bring a civil matter before the court. In February last year, Cabinet approved a decision for the statute of limitations bill on civil matters to be restricted and for appropriate legislation be drafted. Minister of Border Control and Labour, Don-Hue Gardiner had made the proposal for approval by Cabinet on February 12, 2014. It is expected that the proposed law will be in line with the Limitations Act, 1980 of the United Kingdom and/or the Limitations Act, 2002 of the Canadian Province of Ontario for civil matters only.

The new legislation will limit the time that people have until they can bring a particular civil claim. At the time, Gardiner had stated that his proposal is as a result of discussions he had with business and private people throughout the Islands. More recently, on Monday (January 8), lawyer Jonathan Katan, while speaking on behalf of the Bar Council at a function at the Myrtle Rigby building, emphasised the importance of such a law. He noted that there needs to be a time frame between which certain matters can be brought before the court – particularly in cases involving land. Back in February last year, Gardiner had pointed to the number

of cases that are hanging around the court for too many years as another pressing need for the law to be put in place. “As it stands presently there is no definitive limit on most matters and so what we are saying is that we would be following what happens in the UK and Canada, the Bahamas and throughout the rest of the world and we would say that for various actions, persons would have to bring their claims before a certain period of time is expired or else they will no longer be able to bring the claim,” the minister stated. Other matters whereby the law is much needed include cases involving fraudulent and breach of trust matters, and cases of defamation of character. (DELANA ISLES)

Magistrate Kally Cheema resigns THE MAGISTRACY of the TCI will soon be one short when long serving magistrate at the Grand Turk court, Kally Cheema quits. On Monday Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale, while opening the 2015 session of the Supreme Court, bid her farewell and Godspeed. “I would also like to say farewell to Her Honour Ms Kally Cheema,

the Magistrate in Grand Turk who I know has won the hearts and minds of not only her court staff but also of the people of Grand Turk,” the Chief Justice said. She added: “She has gained as much praise for her judicial temperament… we are sorry to see her go but we wish her and her partner Pat every success in the future.”

TCI and UK discuss conservation fund THE TURKS and Caicos Islands Government and the UK government held discussions recently on the creation of additional monetary funds. A conservation fund and scholarship fund were both considered during the Premier’s latest visit to the UK. “The issue of creation of separate funding other than the development fund under the framework document was the subject of discussion with the UK minister responsible,” Rufus Ewing told the House of Assembly. He was responding to a question by the Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in the latest parliament session on December 15 last year. She asked whether the Government had given any further thought to the introduction of the conservation fund which was discontinued under the interim administration.

Washington Misick, Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, was the first to respond, explaining that the Premier is in discussions with the UK government. Ewing expanded: “We focused on two particular funds, the conservation fund and also the fund such as the scholarship fund to enable us to be able to ring fence such funding for areas of priority in the Turks and Caicos. “That discussion is still ongoing and it will form part of the framework document for which we will be negotiating.” A conservation fund would go toward sustainable financing of marine protected areas while a scholarship fund would support student education. A conservation fund was previously in place in the TCI from 1998 until the British government dissolved it and absorbed it into the general fund to cover budget deficits

The first batch of locally trained emergency medical technicians graduated at St Monica’s Anglican Church on January 8. The Ministry of Health and Human Services and the Department of Emergency Medical Services led the programme.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

HMS Severn docks in Grand Turk

A ROYAL Navy patrol ship docked in Grand Turk this week as part of a six month tour of the Caribbean. During the three day visit crew members from the HMS Severn provided fisheries training, gave tours of the boat and played sports with local teams. A spokesperson for the Governor’s Office said that they were grateful for the visitors’ participation in a “busy and diverse” programme of activities. The huge 1,700 tonne boat arrived in Providenciales on Monday (January 5) where staff visited the Coastal Radar Station and met with officers from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. They went on to dock in Grand Turk and on Tuesday morning ran a fisheries protection exercise with the police marine branch and the Department for Environment and Marine Affairs. Later that day crew members in the HMS Severn XI football team played the Grand Turk XI team at the parade ground. Grand Turk won the match five goals to one. “We like to thank the support for coming out on the night and believe this is what made the difference in the end,” the Governor’s Office spokesperson said. On Wednesday Grand Turk students visited the ship to find out more about the work of HMS Severn and its mission to support the British overseas territories in the Caribbean. During their visit crew from the ship also discussed disaster management capabilities, visited the island’s power and water plants and toured the medical facilities. The ship left on Thursday to continue its six month tour of the Caribbean region as part of the Royal Navy’s Atlantic Patrol Task (North). This provides a UK maritime presence in the region all year round, and is on standby to assist with postincident recovery if required. During that time HMS Severn will work with regional navies and coastguards to combat illegal activities on the high seas. The ninth and current HMS Severn is a River-class offshore patrol vessel of the British Royal Navy. Named after the River Severn, the ship is the first to bear the name in 56 years. It was built by Vosper Thornycroft in Southampton to serve as fishery protection units within the United Kingdom’s waters along with her two sister ships Mersey and Tyne. All three were commissioned into service in 2003 to replace the five older Island-class patrol vessels. Severn was affiliated with the city of Newport in September 2003 and awarded the freedom of the city in June 2006.

The HMS Severn is a River-class offshore patrol vessel of the British Royal Navy

The HMS Severn crew take time to play football with a local team

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 15

Crew use high tech equipment to carry out their work

The police marine branch and staff from DEMA attend fisheries training

The Grand Turk XI football team meet with the HMS Severn XI at the parade ground

Staff from HMS Severn host a fisheries training programme

Grand Turk students get a tour of the 1,700 tonne boat

It is an exciting time on HMS Severn for these Grand Turk pupils

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Beaches $5m Megafam campaign a success MORE than 2,700 of North America’s top travel agents visited the country for the first time during Beaches Megafam campaign. The much-celebrated orientation programme saw agents jet into Providenciales from key travel gateways throughout North American on 20 specially-chartered aeroplanes, at a cost of more than $5 million to the company. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, chairman of Sandals Resorts International, said: “The travel agent Megafam is the single biggest trade programme ever seen in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “This latest campaign has generated unprecedented levels of the exposure for Providenciales and the country as a whole. “It is a huge exercise and once you factor in the cost of chartering the aircraft, the taxis, food and beverage, entertainment and everything else, it’s a substantial investment but the long term benefits to the destination are immeasurable.” Stewart said that the quality of the agents that the company brought down to Providenciales was of paramount importance. “They were the best of the best; each highly qualified and carefully vetted beforehand and in many cases travel hundreds of miles to the airport from the surrounding cities and states to attend. “These individuals possess the ability to have a game-changing effect on the TCI tourism industry and bringing them here and giving them the chance to experience up close and personal what the Turks and Caicos has to offer makes all the difference in the world.” As many as 85 percent of the visiting travel agents experienced the TCI for the first time with the Beaches Turks and Caicos team rolling out the red carpet treatment. They enjoyed resort tours, islandwide excursions, catamaran tours and plenty of free time to explore the country during their three day visit. In addition, each travel agent was required to attend a four-hour training course arming them with the education they need to successfully sell the destination once they reach home. Jessica Lang from Travel Planners International in Florida said: “It was a pleasure to experience Turks and Caicos for the very first time in the great care of Sandals. “My stay at the Beaches Resort exceeded my expectations. It was a true treat for my soul to be surrounded by so much beauty, appetizing cuisine, and fun filled activities.” Stewart paid tribute to the TCI Government which contributed

US travel agents are delighted to spend time in the Turks and Caicos Islands

$500,000 to the programme under a previous agreement. “The travel agent Megafam is not just about our resort, it’s about the Turks and Caicos Islands as a destination and I publically applaud the TCI Government for their role in ensuring the programme was both feasible and memorable. “The majority of those agents who attended had never been to the TCI before so it’s easy to see the impact that this has had in the North American agent community.” Travel agents visited from 19 key US and Canadian hubs throughout North America including Boston,

New York, Newark, Rochester, Fort Lauderdale, Baltimore, Montreal, Cleveland, Atlanta, Orlando, Dallas, Houston, Nashville, Chicago, Philadelphia, Toronto, Miami, Charlotte and Westchester. The island’s taxi drivers played an instrumental part in what is usually a slow period on the TCI tourism calendar transferring the groups to and from the airport. “I have received a multitude of the most tremendous messages and letters from agents commenting on everything from the food they ate and the service of resort staff right through to the taxi drivers and the

Fifty jobs up for grabs at resort careers fair UNEMPLOYED Turks and Caicos citizens found out more about career opportunities with the country’s largest private sector employer on Thursday (January 8). Beaches and the Employment Services Department showcased about 50 vacancies on offer at the resort, including entertainment, photography, concierge and sales roles. The resort holds a job fair each month and this week nearly two dozen registered unemployed people attended from the 70 referrals by the Government. Employment Services Department staff took part in the job fair to provide assistance and support to the local jobseekers. Commissioner of Labour,

Michelle Fulford Gardiner, said: “I would encourage all unemployed people to officially register with the Employment Services Department. “By being part of our processes we can better serve them in terms of letting them know about job fairs like this one, and other opportunities. “For example, in addition to the monthly job fair, Beaches also has a graduate apprenticeship programme with the Ministry of Education, which provides core skills for the hotel and tourism sector and which also provides a weekly stipend for those enrolled.” Anyone interested can contact the Employment Services Department for more information on 338-4556.

immigration department, who did a marvellous job of fast tracking them through the airport,” Stewart said. “The word of mouth being generating is simply priceless and I take my hat off to His Excellency Governor Beckingham, Premier Ewing and his team, the Opposition Leader Sharlene CartwrightRobinson, the great local hoteliers,

the people of the TCI and everyone else who played a part in the programme’s success. “Special mention must also go to Beaches managing director Don Dagenais and his resort team who blew them away; we are already reaping the benefits of the programme and plan to do more in the future.”

Minister promises more road repairs soon ROAD repairs in Cheshire Hall have commenced and will continue until they are complete, the Minister of Government Support Services insisted recently. George Lightbourne added that delays in some areas are due to the sheer size of the constituency and lack of sufficient budgeted funds. But extra cash will be gathered following the next budget and injected into the programme, he said. The minister was responding to a question from Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in the House of Assembly in Grand Turk on December 15 last year. She asked when the residents of Cheshire Hall could expect to receive much needed street lights and road works? “I believe the streetlights have been erected,” Lightbourne said before correcting himself. “I know for sure that we’ve gotten a positive response from Fortis, so it’s on its way.” He went on to talk about road works explaining that Cheshire Hall is very large constituency that goes

from Venetian Road all the way to the Kew Town area of Providenciales. “We have already commenced the much needed road repairs in Kew Town by way of grading and patching potholes etc. “However the roads in Glass Shack will have to be repaved because the funds that were allocated were not sufficient enough. “We will be re-budgeting that for the next year’s budget because we underestimated the level of repairs that are required in that area.” However when Cartwright Robinson asked him to explain exactly where the works had taken place, the minister was unable to answer. He went on: “I also want to take this opportunity to say that we will continue work from Providenciales to Middle, South, and Salt Cay. “Even though I’m happy with the road works and cleanliness of Grand Turk and throughout the other islands, I want to caution my people who are responsible for doing those works – let’s be less political and more patriotic.”

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Science & Technology

Bill Gates wrote a blog post about his November visit to a new facility that converts human feces into clean water, and generates electricity along the way.

The findings of the study indicated that people who got less than seven hours of sleep nightly were far more likely to have weak willpower.

Adequate sleep is the key to keeping Gates drinks glass of water made from human feces New Year resolutions – study ONE week into 2015, many people have already blown their New Year resolutions, with promises of everything from improved diet and exercise to reduced drinking and smoking cast aside like Christmas wrapping paper. The reason, according to researchers is no more complicated than lack of sleep, with a new study showing that the failure to stick to our guns each year is simply a result of tiredness. The findings of the study indicated that people who got less than seven hours of sleep nightly were far more likely to have weak willpower. According to Professor Richard Wiseman, a psychologist at the University of Hertfordshire, tiredness erodes self-control. “The brain requires energy to do something we don’t really want to

do or find difficult to do. If you are sleep deprived, then you don’t have the mental energy needed,” he said. “In fact some of the things that people do for their resolutions, like getting up early to go to the gym, leave them more sleep deprived. This is why, over time, they find it harder and harder to keep going.” In previous research from 2010, Professor Wiseman found that 80 percent of people in Britain let their resolutions slip before the end of January. For the latest study, he used an online survey to ask over 1,000 people to rate the quality of their sleep and how successful they were at achieving their New Year resolutions. The responses showed that more than 60 percent of those who said they were getting enough sleep (usually regarded as a minimum of

eight hours) were able to adhere to their resolutions. Only 44 percent of those who slept poorly managed to achieve their resolutions. Studies conducted by other groups have shown that people who are sleep deprived tend to be less professional in the workplace, cut corners, function slowly, or waste time on non-productive pursuits like browsing the internet when they should be working. It is estimated that sleep-related fatigue costs businesses more than $150 billion a year in lost productivity. Studies have also shown that sleep deprivation can lead people to make poorer choices, especially with respect to diet, and can impact physical health, the immune system, and learning ability. (Caribbean360)

BILL Gates has a passion for poop. That’s what the Microsoft cofounder revealed Monday in a video excreting his excitement for a new machine that converts human feces into drinkable water. The billionaire philanthropist describes his November visit to the manure machine, called the Janicki Omniprocessor, in a post on his GatesNotes blog. “The water tasted as good as any I’ve had out of a bottle,” Gates wrote. “And having studied the engineering behind it, I would happily drink it every day. It’s that safe.” Lest anyone poo-poo the fecal facility, which is located in SedroWoolley, Wash., Gates says it’s for a noble cause. Gates writes the self-powered poop processor could simultaneously

clear waste, produce healthy water and generate electricity in developing countries that don’t have modern sewage systems. He claims the machine “will handle waste from 100,000 people, producing up to 86,000 liters of potable water a day and a net 250 kw of electricity.” The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is funding the initiative, which is launching as a pilot project in Senegal but might not be widely available for “many years,” Gates wrote. To put his mouth where his money is, Gates posted a video of him drinking a glass of water that was apparently a heap of feces five minutes beforehand. “It’s water!” he announces, with some surprise, after taking his first sip. (NYDailynews)

Antibiotics: US discovery labelled ‘game-changer’ for medicine THE decades-long drought in antibiotic discovery could be over after a breakthrough by US scientists. Their novel method for growing bacteria has yielded 25 new antibiotics, with one deemed “very promising”. The last new class of antibiotics to make it to clinic was discovered nearly three decades ago. The study, in the journal Nature, has been described as a “gamechanger” and experts believe the antibiotic haul is just the “tip of the iceberg”. The heyday of antibiotic discovery was in the 1950s and 1960s, but nothing found since 1987 has made it into doctor’s hands. Since then microbes have become

incredibly resistant. Extensively drugresistant tuberculosis ignores nearly everything medicine can throw at it. The researchers, at the Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, turned to the source of nearly all antibiotics - soil. This is teeming with microbes, but only 1% can be grown in the laboratory. The team created a “subterranean hotel” for bacteria. One bacterium was placed in each “room” and the whole device was buried in soil. It allowed the unique chemistry of soil to permeate the room, but kept the bacteria in place for study. The scientists involved believe they can grow nearly half of all soil bacteria.

Chemicals produced by the microbes, dug up from one researchers back yard, were then tested for antimicrobial properties. The lead scientist, Prof Kim Lewis, said: “So far 25 new antibiotics have been discovered using this method and teixobactin is the latest and most promising one. “[The study shows] uncultured bacteria do harbour novel chemistry that we have not seen before. That is a promising source of new antimicrobials and will hopefully help revive the field of antibiotic discovery.” Tests on teixobactin showed it was toxic to bacteria, but not mammalian tissues, and could clear a deadly dose of MRSA in tests on mice.

Scientists at Northeastern University used an "iChip" to grow bacteria in soil. Bacteria are normally very difficult to grow in a lab, but grew well in the iChip

Human tests are now needed. The researchers also believe that bacteria are unlikely to develop resistance to teixobactin. It targets fats which are essential for building the bacterial cell wall,

and the scientists argue it would be difficult to evolve resistance. “Here is an antibiotic that essentially evolved to be free of resistance,” said Prof Lewis. “We haven’t seen that before.

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lifestyle... 20

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

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.

A pond in the garden – part one YOU want to create an oasis in your garden? A pond filled with water plants and koi carp is certainly a wonderful and peaceful place in a garden. Creating your own water garden can be hard work, but the results are extremely satisfying! Many do-it-yourselfers will consult a book, magazine article, or even a YouTube video before grabbing a shovel for their pond project. The first thing to do is by selecting the proper place for your Koi pond. If your pond is close to the house then it could be enjoyed more. Consider this, Koi ponds do better in a shaded area than in full sun. Full sun will work, but a shaded area will generally slow the algae growth

down and will prevent the water from possibly getting too hot during in our Turks and Caicos Islands heat. Keep in mind that you want your pond to be in a place where you can see from both outside and inside the house. Determine how big you’d like your pond. A good way is to trace it out on the ground. One of the most common mistakes people make with their first pond is that they build it too small. For Koi fish, the smallest pond recommended building is 1,500 gallons. That may sound huge to many beginners, but most people who already have a Koi pond, will agree that if you build a pond much smaller than that, you will not be happy with it. Also, a shallow pond is obviously

YOUR BODY  Dr Craig Zavitz is a Canadian chiropractor registered in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He specialises in gentle manual therapies, activator, therapeutic laser, and smoking cessation. To make appointments call 941-5252 or email craig@gracebaychiro.com. For more information visit www.gracebaychiro.com.

easier to dig than a deeper one, but if it’s not deep enough, your pond won’t stay cool if it’s too shallow. Fish don’t like hot ponds! A bacteria tank and some kind of circulating water is your next step. Part of the pond construction will include a bacteria tank used to keep Koi alive. Koi create a certain type of necessary bacteria, which keeps the water conditioned for them. These tanks help that bacteria thrive. People usually use the bacteria tanks as a waterfall to run over rocks and down into the Koi pond. A waterfall or some kind of circulation is needed in order to keep the Koi alive. You can use the dirt from the hole you dug to create the ponds waterfall.

Before you cover your newly dug hole with your liner, make sure there is no edgy piece of rock in the hole. Liner should extend about a foot out of your hole which you will anchor with large rocks. Smooth out liner as best you can. Make sure if you’re walking around in the pond, not to rip your liner. When you choose your pump, make sure the pump has enough power for the size of your pond. All ponds and waterfalls need a circulating pump. These come in many different sizes according to how high you need to pump the water and how fast you want the flow rate. The pump will need to be placed in the pond, but it needs to be off the bottom of the pond floor by an inch

counselling guidance to address the psychological component. Laser treatment is the application of a non-invasive laser beam to specific energy points on the body. This is a completely drug-free, safe, and painless procedure. The counselling guidance involves practical advice that helps to support the individuals’ efforts to remain a non-smoker.

BY Dr Craig Zavitz

Start 2015 smoke free A LASER smoking cessation procedure is non-invasive, totally safe and painless. The term laser is an acronym which means: light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Laser is a modern method of therapy. The laser simply converts electrical energy into a form of light energy that is transmitted to the client by means of specially designed probes. Low power lasers do not generate heat, therefore when the laser contacts the skin, the client

experiences no warmth or burning. How it works We are using the laser on energy points to help promote the release of neurotransmitters; such as endorphins, serotonins and dopamine, to help smokers deal with their withdrawal symptoms when they quit smoking. During the treatment, most people feel nothing other than a sense of relaxation. The laser procedure involves the application of the probe to energy points on the ears and limbs.

When these specific points of the body are stimulated with the laser, it promotes the release of these neurotransmitters into the brain, which results in a calming effect on the body. Endorphins, a specific neurotransmitter, are one of the body’s own painkillers, an opioid (morphine-like) chemical produced by the body that serves to suppress pain, which assists in keeping the body calm and relaxed. The client experiences a feeling of euphoria and wellbeing that helps to

or two. This keeps the pump from sucking up sediment. The filter is the heart of your Koi pond. The filter is what keeps the water clear and healthy for the fish. Many ponds have failed because the owners spent all their money on a beautiful pond and tried to save money on their filter. The filter serves two purposes. One, it serves as a mechanical filter removing fish waste and anything else in the pond that would cloud the water. Two, it serves as a biological filter by converting the ammonia produced by the fish into nitrites and eventually into nitrates which, in general, are harmless to the fish. Next week part two of ‘A pond in the garden’.

dramatically reduce the withdrawal symptoms, irritability, and craving which come with quitting addictive tendencies such as smoking. What the treatment involves Addictions involve both a physical and a psychological component. Our smoking cessation programmes address both components by using a state of the art laser therapy system to address the physical component of the addiction and

What to expect The Theralase smoking cessation programme consists of a treatment session that takes 45 minutes. In some cases, patients may require a second booster session which can be performed any time within 30 days of starting the programme. No matter how long you’ve smoked, no matter how many times you’ve tried to quit, if patches, gum, inhalers, or hypnosis haven’t worked for you then why not try laser therapy?

January 10 - 16, 2015

Lifestyle... Makeup and skin care 

ECO Tip  Thea LoweGangasingh

Thea Lowe-Gangasingh is a professional makeup artist based in Providenciales certified with Chic Studios NYC. To book an appointment for any occasion with Thea Makeup Artistry email info@theamakeupartistry.com or call 242-4627.

Daytime makeup tips DAYTIME makeup should be applied using soft shades of colour and shouldn’t be too dramatic for the workplace or occasion. That doesn’t mean you can’t wear a red lipstick, it just means that the overall look shouldn’t involve lots of dark colours, glitter and severe contouring. You should try to make one feature the main focus, either the lips, eyes or face. Here are a few tips: Brows Lightly shape, define and fill in the brows with a pencil and/ or powder and brush through gently to blend and distribute the product evenly for a very natural look. Eyes The aim is to brighten up the eyes and make them look awake and refreshed. Avoid using black or other dark coloured shadows and liner in the daytime as it can appear too harsh. Instead, try earth tones such as browns, tans, greens, grey, beige, light pinks and lavender. Mascara - For persons with very light hair, brown mascara will look very natural. For persons with dark brown or black hair, you can go with dark brown or black mascara. Eyeliner - avoid wearing black eyeliner on the water line with black mascara during the day as the combination can be too harsh. Instead, try wearing a soft brown, purple, grey, green or beige eyeliner to enhance the eyes. An example of a daytime eye

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

makeup look is as follows: 1) Matte beige eye shadow applied from the eyelid up to the brow bone. 2) Soft brown eye shadow applied in the crease for definition. 3) Brown pencil applied on the waterline. 4) Thinly line above the lash line with a light brown pencil. 5) Apply black mascara to lashes. Face During the day, try to avoid using heavy foundations on the face. You can use any formula you like as long as it’s used in moderation. The aim is to even your skin tone by using the least amount of product as possible. To apply, place the product in the centre of the face and then blend outwards making sure not to forget the neck. When finished, set with a bit of powder. Blush Apply blush to the apples of the cheeks and blend out and upwards. Always start lightly and build. You want to appear as if the colour is coming from underneath the skin, so do make sure to blend it out properly so there are no visible lines. Lips Depending on if you chose to have your eyes as the main focus, go for a sheer lip gloss. If you want your lips to be the main focus, go for a brighter coloured lipstick with liner and mascara on the eyes to balance the overall look.

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

Going green in 2015 WITH 2014 behind us and the new year in full swing it is now a good opportunity to make some resolutions that are worthy of your time and will in turn help the health of this beautiful planet. You don’t have to do everything at once, but perhaps think about making a change every week or even every month until that little change becomes a good habit and in turn inspire others to follow suit. Some things to consider are: Conserve energy. We all know how expensive it is to live here but your bills can be kept quite low by remembering to turn off lights and fans when not in use. Even turning off your computer and other electronics before going to bed can make a big difference in the amount of power used. Conserve water, especially when relying on rain to fill your cistern. Take a ‘navy’ shower by turning the water off whilst soaping up and

washing your hair then turn the water back on to rinse off. It’s amazing how much water can be saved from using this method. Also consider not flushing the toilet every time - ‘In this land of sun and fun, never flush for number one. When it’s yellow, let it mellow, when it’s brown, flush it down.’ You can also water plants using water from washing the dishes, especially if you use an eco-friendly dish soap. Detoxify your home by using all natural products both for your own personal hygiene and for cleaning around the home. Baking soda is a great option for using as a deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste and as a safe way of cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. Vinegar is another must have along with hydrogen peroxide and coconut oil. Laundry balls are another great addition to your home in order to avoid using

detergent, saving lots of money too. Reduce your plastic consumption. Invest in a good reusable water bottle and consider a water filter for your home. Make reusable shopping bags from unused t-shirts that can also be washed along with the rest of your laundry. It’s amazing how many groceries can fit in a stretchable t-shirt bag! Shop wisely by choosing products with less packaging and buy whole fruits that you can slice yourself rather than precut fruit in plastic containers. Try to buy products in glass rather than plastic jars and save the jars afterwards for storing other items. Eat real food and avoid processed food. Also consider cutting down your consumption of animal products. Meatless Monday is a great initiative to encourage people to eat healthier and help reduce our carbon footprint and save precious resources like fossil fuels and fresh water. Happy new year and be the change you wish to see in the world!

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Make crime prevention your resolution ON BEHALF of the Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) I would like to wish everyone a very happy new year! Yes, another year is here and this is normally the time that many people decide to make new year’s resolutions. The usual may be to lose weight or some other goal one may have in mind. But why not make crime prevention one of your new year resolutions in 2015? The RTCIPF believe that crime prevention is everyone’s business and involves taking some simple but effective steps to prevent crimes such as burglary from taking place. Don’t make it easy for the burglar; always ensure that your windows and doors are locked in order to prevent opportunities. If you have not done so already, now is a really great time to assess your home security. Burglars like easy opportunities. If they have to make a lot of noise, spend a lot of time or risk being seen, the chances are they will not bother. A good rule of thumb is the

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.

three minute delay test. If you can deny entry for three minutes or more – chances are the burglars will end up going elsewhere. The RTCIPF cannot fight crime alone without the support and cooperation of the community. Everybody has a role to play in attempting to prevent and reduce crime. I would encourage all members of the community to actively consider how they can contribute to this goal in 2015. This weekly column published with the kindness of this great newspaper contains basic information which will help you to improve your own security, and reduce the fear of crime and the risk of it occurring. Every week, crime prevention tips and other information is given to deter crime in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The RTCIPF would like to encourage you to share with your loved ones, the information in this column which

is provided on a weekly basis to promote a safer, more secure and pleasant environment to enjoy, live and work in. We are still encouraging members of the community to start neighbourhood watches and focus more on crime prevention in this new year. Please ensure that once you have decided to focus more on crime prevention that you don’t let it be like other resolutions that you have set in the past and then abandoned midway into the new year. Our official web site which is www.tcipolice.tc and our Facebook page www.facebook.com/RTCIPF is filled with information that deals with many aspects of crime prevention, official press releases and other information. Together let’s pledge for a safer and crime free Turks and Caicos Islands in 2015!

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Science & Technology

Most cancer types ‘just bad luck’ A US team was trying to explain why some tissues were millions of times more vulnerable to cancer than others. The results, in the journal Science, showed two thirds of the cancer types analysed were caused just by chance mutations rather than lifestyle. However some of the most common and deadly cancers are still heavily influenced by lifestyle. And Cancer Research UK said a healthy lifestyle would still heavily stack the odds in a person’s favour. So is it time to light-up, drink and eat what you want without a care in the world? It won’t come as a surprise that the answer is no. All cancer has an element of chance - a roll of the dice that decides whether your DNA acquires a mutation that leads to cancer. The study shows that two thirds of cancer types are simply chance. But the remaining third are still heavily influenced by the choices we make. Too much booze, time in the sun or being overweight mean we are playing with loaded dice and the odds are not in our favour. Remember smoking accounts for a fifth of all cancers worldwide. These findings are a reminder that cancer is often just bad luck and the

only option is early detection. But that’s not an excuse to give up on those new year’s resolutions already. In the US, 6.9% of people develop lung cancer, 0.6% brain cancer and 0.00072% get tumours in their laryngeal (voice box) cartilage at some point in their lifetime. Toxins from cigarette smoke could explain why lung cancer is more common. But the digestive system is exposed to more environmental toxins than the brain, yet brain tumours are three times as common as those in the small intestine. ROOT OF CANCER The team at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health believe the way tissues regenerate is the answer. Old tired cells in the body are constantly being replaced with new ones made by dividing stem cells. But with each division comes the risk of a dangerous mutation that moves the stem cell one step closer to being cancerous. The pace of turnover varies throughout the body with rapid turnover in the lining of the gut and a slower pace in the brain. The researchers compared how

However some of the most common and deadly cancers are still heavily influenced by lifestyle.

often stem cells divided in 31 tissues in the body over a lifetime with the odds of a cancer in those tissues. They concluded that two thirds of cancer types were “due to bad luck” from dividing stem cells picking up mutations that could not be prevented. These cancer types included Glioblastoma (brain cancers), small intestine cancers and pancreatic cancers. Cristian Tomasetti, an assistant professor of oncology and one of the researchers, said a focus on prevention would not prevent such

cancers. “If two thirds of cancer incidence across tissues is explained by random DNA mutations that occur when stem cells divide, then changing our lifestyle and habits will be a huge help in preventing certain cancers, but this may not be as effective for a variety of others. “We should focus more resources on finding ways to detect such cancers at early, curable stages.” POOR LIFESTYLE The remaining third of cancer types, which are affected by lifestyle factors, viruses or a heightened

family risk, include some of the most common: · Basal cell carcinoma - a type of skin cancer made more common by too much UV exposure · Lung cancer - strongly linked to smoking · Colon cancer - increased by poor diet and family risk genes Two common types of cancer - breast and prostate - were not analysed as the researchers could not find a consistent rate of stem cell division in those tissues. Separate research by Cancer Research UK shows more than four in 10 of the total number of cancers were down to lifestyle. Dr Emma Smith, senior science information officer at the charity, told the BBC: “We estimate that more than four in 10 cancers could be prevented by lifestyle changes, like not smoking, keeping a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and cutting back on alcohol. “Making these changes is not a guarantee against cancer, but it stacks the odds in our favour. “It’s vital that we continue making progress to detect cancer earlier and improve treatments, but helping people understand how they can reduce their risk of developing cancer in the first place remains crucial in tackling cancer.” (BBC)

Most fossil fuels ‘unburnable’ under 2C climate target MOST of the world’s fossil fuel reserves will need to stay in the ground if dangerous global warming is to be avoided, modelling work suggests. Over 80% of coal, 50% of gas and 30% of oil reserves are “unburnable” under the goal to limit global warming to no more than 2C, say scientists. University College London research, published in Nature journal, rules out drilling in the Arctic. And it points to heavy restrictions on coal to limit temperature rises. “We’ve now got tangible figures of the quantities and locations of fossil fuels that should remain unused in trying to keep within the 2C temperature limit,” said lead researcher Dr Christophe McGlade, of theUCL Institute for Sustainable Resources. “Policy makers must realise that their instincts to completely use the fossil fuels within their countries are wholly incompatible with their commitments to the 2C goal.”

Past research has found that burning all of the world’s fossil fuel resources would release three times more carbon than that required to keep warming to no more than 2C. The new study uses models to estimate how much coal, oil and gas must go unburned up to 2050 and where it can be extracted to stay within the 2C target regarded as the threshold for dangerous climate change. The uneven distribution of resources raises huge dilemmas for countries seeking to exploit their natural resources amid attempts to strike a global deal on climate change: · The Middle East would need to leave about 40% of its oil and 60% of its gas underground · The majority of the huge coal reserves in China, Russia and the United States would have to remain unused · Undeveloped resources of unconventional gas, such as shale gas, would be off limits in Africa

and the Middle East, and very little could be exploited in India and China · Unconventional oil, such as Canada’s tar sands, would be unviable. The research also raises questions for fossil fuel companies about investment in future exploration, given there is more in the ground than “we can afford to burn”, say the UCL scientists. “We shouldn’t waste a lot of money trying to find fossil fuels which we think are going to be more expensive,” co-researcher Prof Paul Ekins told the BBC. “That almost certainly includes Arctic resources. It will certainly include a lot of the shale gas resources in Europe, which have not really been explored or exploited at all.” GOLDEN AGE Carbon capture and storage would have only “a relatively modest effect” on how much fossil fuels

The report raises huge dilemmas for countries seeking to exploit their natural resources.

can be used because of its expense and late introduction, the scientists added. Emma Pinchbeck, WWF-UK’s head of energy and climate change policy, said the study showed “yet again that the majority of the world’s fossil fuel reserves, and coal in particular, must stay in the ground to stay within two degrees of warming”. And Rob Bailey, research

director for energy, environment and resources at Chatham House, said the finding that half of natural gas reserves must remain untapped will make uncomfortable reading for governments seeking to replicate the US shale revolution and displace dirtier coal. “The recently heralded golden age of gas will be short lived if we are to avoid dangerous climate change,” he said. (BBC)

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Rashad breaks silence on Cosby; more accusers surface BILL Cosby’s TV wife is standing firmly in his corner -- even as three more women made accusations against the comedian. Showbiz 411 reported that Phylicia Rashad, who played Clair Huxtable on NBC’s “The Cosby Show,” told the outlet that she never saw any indication of the behavior that many women have attributed to the legendary actor. He has been accused of harassing, drugging and sexually assaulting multiple women. No charges have ever been filed against Cosby, and his attorneys have vehemently denied the allegations. “Forget these women,” Rashad said. “What you’re seeing is the destruction of a legacy. And I think it’s orchestrated. I don’t know why or who’s doing it, but it’s the legacy. And it’s a legacy that is so important to the culture.” More than 20 women have come forward with claims, and a defamation lawsuit has been filed

against Cosby. The long-admired actor and comedian has seen his reputation suffer in the wake of the allegations, including the cancellation of a planned television show and the suspension of the Cosby Chair for the Humanities at Spelman College in Atlanta, where he and his wife, Camille, have been longtime benefactors. THREE MORE ACCUSERS On Wednesday, attorney Gloria Allred brought out three more women -- Linda Kirkpatrick, Lynn Neal and a woman who chose to be identified only as Kacey -- who say they were sexually assaulted by the comedian after being drugged by him. Kirkpatrick, who met Cosby at a tennis tournament, and Neal, who was a health club massage therapist, said their incidents happened in the early 1980s. Kacey, a former employee of the William Morris

Agency who was an assistant to a Cosby agent, dated her incident to the 1990s. While introducing the women, Allred -- who challenged Cosby last month to meet his accusers in court or set aside $100 million to settle their claims -- addressed Rashad’s statements. “Phylicia, you should be supporting these women rather than joining Cosby’s paid ‘attack dogs’ who are trying to undermine them in any way that they can,” Allred said. She added that Cosby’s camp has not accepted either of the offers she made in December. Rashad: ‘Someone is determined’ Rashad, who also starred as the actor’s wife on the CBS show “Cosby,” said she sees the controversy as part of a larger plot. “Someone is determined to keep Bill Cosby off TV,” she said. “And it’s worked. All his contracts have been canceled.” The actress said she loves Cosby

Phylicia Rashad, third from right, played Clair Hanks Huxtable on “The Cosby Show.”

and defended his wife, saying there was no way Camille Cosby would stand for such behavior from her husband of 50 years. “This is a tough woman, a smart woman,” Showbiz 411’s Roger Friedman writes that Rashad told him. “She’s no pushover.” She also spoke on the legacy of the beloved show that cemented her and Cosby as one of TV’s favorite couples. “This show represented America

to the outside world,” she said. “This was the American family. And now you’re seeing it being destroyed. Why?” Asked why she believed Cosby hasn’t spoken up to defend himself other than to say that the black media should cover the story with a “neutral mind,”Rashad said she believes he has too much pride to do it. “If he spoke now, what do you think the media would do with it?” she said. (CNN)

January 10 - 16, 2015

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Dr Dre and Lovine sued over Beats/ Monster headphone partnership

When the firm was sold to mobile phone manufacturer HTC in 2012, Dre (in picture) and Lovine made $100m (£66m) each, Forbes estimated.

DR DRE and Jimmy Lovine are being sued by a former business partner who co-designed their Beats headphone range. Noel Lee, whose firm Monster helped launch Beats by Dre in 2008, says his company was betrayed and its technology “pirated”. He alleges he “lost millions” after Dre and Lovine “improperly took control” of Beats through a “sham” transaction. After severing ties with Monster, Beats was purchased by Apple for $3 billion (£1.9 billion). In legal papers filed in California, Lee alleges rap producer Dr Dre was barely involved in creating the headphones that carried his name. But the range quickly became

a highly desirable brand with celebrities and music fans, and Dre’s endorsement was key to its success. When the firm was sold to mobile phone manufacturer HTC in 2012, Dre and Lovine made $100m (£66m) each, Forbes estimated. But Lee claims the deal forced him to cut his share in the company from 5% to 1.25%. He says he then had no other option but to sell his remaining stake for $5.5m (£3.6m) near the end of 2013. His legal case describes the HTC deal as “fraudulent” and “a sham” intended to shift ownership of Beats to Dre and Lovine. HTC later sold its shares back to the Beats. Lee says if he’d still had his

1.25% stake, he would have received more than $30m (£19.8m) in the Apple deal. His original 5% stake would have been worth around $150m (£99m). A statement from Monster’s law firm Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy says that Dr Dre and Jimmy Iovine “made millions off the work of Monster and Lee, while the plaintiffs lost millions”. There’s been no response yet from Dr Dre’s lawyer - or from Beats. It’s the second lawsuit against the firm since Apple bought it last year. The first was brought by the Bose Corporation over patented technology for cancelling noise in earphones. That case was settled under undisclosed terms in October.

Entertainment

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U.S. asks Poland to extradite Roman Polanski over child sex case POLAND has been asked to extradite filmmaker Roman Polanski to the United States, where he is wanted on 1977 charges of sex with a minor, an official said Wednesday. Spokesman for the prosecutor general, Mateusz Martyniuk, told The Associated Press that the request from Los Angles prosecutors was being forwarded to Krakow, where Polanski’s case is handled. In October, Krakow prosecutors refused a U.S. request to arrest Polanski, 81, but questioned him and obliged him to turn up on every summons. Polanski was in Warsaw for the opening of the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews and then traveled to Krakow, his childhood city. The Oscar-winning director plans to make a movie on the Dreyfus affair, the early 20th century French spy scandal, in Poland in February and March. One of Polanski’s lawyers, Jerzy Stachowicz, said Wednesday that the team would contest the extradition bid. Martyniuk said that as a rule Poland does not extradite its citizens. In December, a judge in Los Angeles rejected Polanski’s bidfor a new hearing. Paris-born to Polish Jewish parents, Polanski spent his childhood and youth in Poland but lives in

Roman Polanski won an Academy Award for best director for his 2002 film “The Pianist”.

France. He holds Polish and French passports, but his movements are restricted by an Interpol warrant in effect in 188 countries. He travels freely between Switzerland, France and Poland. Polanski pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawful sexual intercourse, and was sentenced to prison for a 90-

day psychiatric evaluation. He was released after 42 days and, fearing the judge would force him to serve the remainder of the sentence, he fled from the United States. In 2010 Switzerland refused to extradite Polanski, though he spent 290 days in jail or under house arrest while the case was considered.

January 10 - 16, 2015

Rick Ross gets Miami Heat logo tattooed on his face YOU think you’re a big sports fan? Rapper Rick Ross got a tattoo of his beloved Miami Heat on his face. The heavily inked 38-year-old rapper, who was raised in Carol City, near Miami, got the team’s flaming basketball logo inked on his right temple at Unroyal Ink in New Jersey, Vibe reports. The new tat was one of several the prison-guard-turned-rapmogul got at the Farmingdale shop earlier this week. Another was a small interlocking “DC,” which is the logo for his friend and fellow rapper Meek Mill’s record company, Dreamchasers. Artists at Unroyal Ink promoted the session with photos on the shop’s Instagram page Sunday showing a shirtless Ross reclining with a blunt-like smoke. “Tattooing the Hood Billionaire,” the caption said. As expected, Ross is a giant Heat fan.

According to Vibe, Rick Ross bet 10,000 that his team would finish the season with a better record than the Cleveland Cavaliers, where former Heat star LeBron James now plays.

According to Vibe, he bet 10,000 that his team would finish the season with a better record than the Cleveland Cavaliers, where former Heat star LeBron James now plays. (NYDailynews)

Dershowitz sued in Prince Andrew sex abuse case LAWYERS representing a woman who has alleged Prince Andrew and law professor Alan Dershowitz had sex with her when she was a minor are suing Mr Dershowitz for defamation. The lawyers accuse Mr Dershowitz of mounting a media assault on their reputation and character.

The development comes a day after he began legal proceedings to clear his name. Both Buckingham Palace and Mr Dershowitz deny the claims. On Monday, Mr Dershowitz filed papers at a court in Florida, where the case is being heard, to contest what he described as “absolutely outrageous claims”.

Mr Dershowitz and Prince Andrew are two of three well-known men named in court documents.

The former Harvard law professor has asked for his name to be removed from documents which accuse him and Prince Andrew of having sexual relations with Virginia Roberts, known in court as Jane Doe #3, who was under the age of consent in the US at the time of the alleged incidents. In media interviews, Mr Dershowitz accused Ms Roberts’ lawyers, Paul Cassell and Bradley Edwards, of “unethical” behaviour warranting disbarment. The pair said their reputations had been damaged by such comments and that they were seeking damages. In response, Mr Dershowitz said he was “thrilled” to be sued as it would give him an opportunity to disprove the two. The allegations against Prince Andrew and Alan Dershowitz emerged in evidence submitted to a US court in a case involving financier Jeffrey Epstein. Two women, referred to as Jane Doe #1 and Jane Doe #2, are suing the US government. They argue that it failed to protect their rights when it entered a plea deal with Epstein, who spent time in jail in 2008-9 for a sex offence with a minor.

Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter are going to be parents, a rep for the British actor confirmed.

Cumberbatch and Hunter expecting first child THERE’S a Cumber-bun in the oven! Newly engaged Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter are expecting a baby, a rep for the British actor confirmed to the Daily News. “I am delighted to confirm that Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter are expecting their first child. They are both over the moon.” Cumberbatch and his theater director fiancée stepped out on the red carpet last week at the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala, and Hunter appeared to be sporting signs of a small baby bump. The 38-year-old “Sherlock” actor, who is currently on location for the

show in Bristol, revealed the pair’s engagement very traditionally in early November. “The engagement is announced between Benedict, son of Wanda and Timothy Cumberbatch of London, and Sophie, daughter of Katherine Hunter of Edinburgh and Charles Hunter of London,” read an announcement in UK’s The Times newspaper with the headline “Mr B.T. Cumberbatch and Miss S.I. Hunter.” Cumberbatch and Hunter, 36, reportedly met when making the film “Burlesque Fairytales” in 2009, according to People magazine. (NYDailynews)

January 10 - 16, 2015

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Junkanoo Corporation to investigate group in KKK hoods

The Interview tells of two US journalists who are co-opted into a CIA assassination plot.

The Interview to receive UK release, Sony confirms CONTROVERSIAL comedy The Interview is to have “a wide release” in the UK and Ireland, Sony Pictures has confirmed. The film, the story of which involves a fictional plot to kill the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, will be shown, in cinemas only, from 6 February. Sony had withdrawn the film in the wake of a damaging studio cyber-attack, only to then release it in selected cinemas and make it available online in the US. The film has now made more

than $31m (£20.5m) from its digital distribution. Its limited theatrical release, meanwhile, has netted its makers around $5m (£3.3m). Co-written and co-directed by its star Seth Rogen, The Interview was described last year as a “blatant act of terrorism” by North Korea’s staterun KCNA news agency. Its scheduled release is thought to have motivated the orchestrated attack that saw films, confidential emails and Sony staff’s salary details being leaked online.

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A photo from Facebook of the protest during the Junkanoo parade.

JUNKANOO Corporation of the Bahamas chairman Silbert Ferguson pledged this week to investigate the appearance of an anonymous group donning hats similar to those worn by Klu Klux Klan members in protest against lawyer Fred Smith and billionaire conservationist Louis Bacon during the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade. Mr Ferguson said he had no idea the group had appeared on Bay Street until he was told of the news hours later, adding that the JCNP did not sanction the group’s performance and has little authority to ensure that it doesn’t happen. He added that his team will view tapes of the parade and make a decision as to how such future incidents could be prevented. “People hide their paraphernalia and get in,” he said. “Parades are free spirited. People have social messages they could bring on the parade and it’s not a problem, but if it’s going to be messing with someone then that’s a problem and it appears this group was hidden until they got to Rawson’s Square.” He continued: “Everything that happens that has a negative tone, we have to make immediate adjustments

to prevent it. When mistakes are made we have to learn from them. I don’t want someone to take a social site and do this kind of stuff. If you are talking about AIDS or whether we should have hanging I could live with that, but the kind of social messages people are complaining about are ones we don’t need. Louis Bacon ain’ do Junkanoo nothing.” Last week, Mr Smith, the head of the Grand Bahama Human Rights Association, called on the government to pass a Human Rights Act and make it an offence “to abuse people hatefully in public.” A video of the “protest” had gone viral on social media. Last month Mr Smith and Save The Bays director, Joseph Darville, said they feared for their lives after allegedly being targeted by an aggressive group of young men holding menacing and defamatory banners bearing their names and faces during a “hijacked” rally in support of a Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. Responding to the protest on New Year’s Day on Friday, Mr Smith called it a “national disgrace” that sends a “clear message of hate, racism, xenophobia and anti-foreign mentality to the world.”

Regional News

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UN Security Council calls for elections in Haiti President of the United Nations Security Council Cristian Barros Melet says elections must take place in Haiti “in order to normalise the legislative process and the presidential process”. Baros Melet, who is also Chile’s UN Ambassador, told reporters that members of the Security Council would be travelling to Port au Prince later this month so as to impress upon the authorities there the need to stage the elections that were originally due in October last year. During the Security Council’s January 23-25 visit, Barros Melet said the unanimous message from the 15 members would be that “the priority of the president of Haiti should be to develop a credible electoral timetable, a timetable that is also feasible and can be implemented”. Late last month, President Michel Martelly may have averted a political crisis in the French-speaking Caribbean Community country after reaching a tentative agreement with the heads of the two Houses of Parliament. The accord is likely to result in approval of a “consensus” government that could include Evans Paul, the president’s new choice for prime minister to replace Laurent Lamothe, who resigned in December. The agreement would also extend

Late last month, President Michel Martelly may have averted a political crisis in the French-speaking Caribbean Community country after reaching a tentative agreement with the heads of the two Houses of Parliament.

the terms of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, due to run out on January 12 next year, but only if an electoral law is passed first. In recent weeks, Martelly has been meeting with several social and political groups in a bid to pave the way for the holding of the longdelayed election to renew two-thirds of the 30-member Senate, the entire Lower Chamber and hundreds of

local government bodies. Out of the 30 senate members, only 20 remain in office, and amendments to an existing electoral law are required to facilitate the vote. But six Opposition legislators have consistently refused to attend the meetings of the Senate, preventing the body from getting the required 16-member quorum needed to hold a session. Political observers note that by January 12, the Haitian Parliament will become dysfunctional with only 10 senators left, while 16 are required to hold a session. The observers note that failure to elect the new Senators could result in President Martelly ruling by decree. But Opposition parties have already signalled their intention to not blindly follow the agreement and have instead announced plans for street demonstrations this week in a bid to force Martelly out of office. President Martelly was forced to reschedule a sitting of the Senate on Monday after Opposition legislators failed to provide the necessary quorum. The meeting is now scheduled for Wednesday. During its visit to Haiti, members of the Security Council will also visit the UN peacekeeping mission, which is now reducing its presence on the island. (CMC)

Major US black group to host CARICOM reparations summit A MAJOR Black group here says it will host the next summit of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Reparations Commission early this year. The New York-based Institute of the Black World 21st Century (IBW) said on Saturday that the summit will take place from April 9-12. The CARICOM Commission is chaired by Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor Designate of the University of the West Indies. Inspired by the creation of the CARICOM Commission, a National African American Reparations Commission is being established as part of an effort to intensify the Reparations movement in the US, the IBW said. It said the Commission will be dedicated to the memory of Audley Moore, one of the foremost proponents of Reparations in the history of Africans in America and a mentor to generations of Reparations activists. IBW said in addition to the CARICOM and African American Commissions, representatives of Reparations movements from Central and South America, Canada and Europe are expected to participate in what is emerging as a Pan African Reparations Summit.

The New York-based Institute of the Black World 21st Century (IBW) said that the summit will take place from April 9-12.

It said the programmes for the Summit will include formal business sessions; a dialogue between leaders of the Caribbean Diaspora in the US and the CARICOM Commission; meetings between the newly-formed African American Commission and the Caribbean Commission; Rallies in Harlem, considered the symbolic Capital of Black America; Brooklyn, home to the largest Caribbean community in the US; and a tribute to Congressman John Conyers, Dean of the Congressional Black Caucus and Sponsor of HR-40, the Reparations Study Bill, which he has introduced

in the US Congress since 1989. The IBW noted that, at the most recent Reparations Braintrust at the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference, Sir Hilary urged participants to declare a “Conyers Decade of Reparatory Justice”. “The tribute to Congressman Conyers will begin that process,” said the IBW, adding that there will also be special recognition of the National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America (N?COBRA) for “decades of ground-breaking work on the issue”.

January 10 - 16, 2015

Haiti health officials deny reports of first Ebola case HAITIAN health officials have dismissed reports that the first case of Ebola has been detected in the country. On Saturday, Dr. Florence D. Guillaume, Minister of Public Health, told the Haitian Caribbean News Network that the reports of Ebola being detected in the vicinity of Petite Riviere de l’Artibonite, in the northern region of the country are “totally false”. “There are ill-intentioned people spreading such rumors,” stated Guillaume who is also acting Prime Minister. According to Guillaume, the de-politicisation of the health sector is “an essential principle for the restoration of trust and confidence in the response to provide to individuals who

require care and services for prevention, maintaining or the restoration of their health in case of illness.” The Ministry of Health has called on the population “to remain calm and to respect all disclosed prevention regulations while making the duty, if any were needed, to reassure everyone of the effectiveness of the vigilance system in place to reduce significantly the risk of contamination of our country.” Ebola is an infectious and generally fatal disease marked by fever and severe internal bleeding, spread through contact with infected body fluids. There is no known cure for the Ebola virus which has killed more than 7,000 people mainly in West Africa. (CMC)

CARICOM must fully implement “bold” strategic plan – Christie BAHAMAS Prime Minister Perry Christie says it’s important for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to fully implement the five-year strategic plan that has been endorsed by regional leaders for deepening the regional integration movement. Christie, the new chairman of the 15-member grouping, said that the 2015-19 plan “is a bold step that demonstrates our determination to provide the best options for the growth and development of our people. “This plan is an important part of the Reform Process in our Community and we stand to be judged both by its success and the actions we take in its implementation. In re-positioning our Community, as this plan seeks to do, we will be aiming at making it more resilient to the internal and external factors which hinder our efforts at attaining sustainable development in a rapidly changing world.” Christie, who took over the chairmanship of CARICOM from his Antigua and Barbuda colleague, Gaston Browne, said that there can be no more vivid demonstration of the dynamic nature of the global environment facing the Caribbean face than the recent rapprochement between Cuba and the United States. “Those of us who have consistently called for an end to the isolation of our sister Caribbean country and, in particular, the cessation of the economic, trade and financial embargo are heartened by the initiatives announced by President Obama and President Castro. “In my view this rapprochement

underscores the urgency of a summit between the American President and the Heads of the Community.” He said that this year also marks the beginning of negotiations for the United Nations Post-2015 Development Agenda which seeks to find a more effective route to the sustainable development of all States. “This is of keen interest to our Community as it is important that the concerns of small vulnerable states like ours must be taken into account and acted upon. “We have taken action in this regard by ensuring that our concerns and interests are part of the platform for the negotiations agreed to last September in Samoa by the grouping of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).” Prime Minister Christie said that as he assumes the chairmanship of the regional integration movement for the next six months, “it will be my duty to work with my colleague Heads and the Secretary-General to lay the foundations for the implementation of our Strategic Plan. “Of particular importance will be the high priority areas identified for focused implementation over the next five years. These will be critical as it is imperative we find the means to reverse the dire economic situation with which so many of us are faced.” The Bahamas will host the CARICOM Inter-sessional summit February 26-27 and Prime Minister Christie said “there will be an important discussion on the investment in the cultural development of our community including sports and music.

January 10 - 16, 2015

Regional News

St Lucia police to charge father in stabbing of four-month-old baby ST LUCIA police say they intend to lay charges against a man believed to be the father of a four-month old baby, who was stabbed repeatedly during a brief hostage incident at Marchand, east of the capital on Monday. Police said that officers attached to the Major Crimes Unit, Special Services Unit and the Criminal Investigations Department had responded to a call that a man was seen holding a baby and threatening to kill the child, “Numerous attempts to persuade the suspect to hand over the baby

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proved futile. The suspect concealed himself in his house, in the process stabbing the baby multiple times. The officers were able to retrieve the baby and subdue the suspect. “The baby who was later identified as four-month-old Parris Leonce … was transported to Victoria Hospital, where she was treated and admitted for multiple stab wounds,” the police said in a statement. They added that the suspect “who is believed to be the baby’s father is currently in police custody” and that “charges are expected to be laid against him”. (CMC)

Within North America, the Caribbean, with 48.1 million bed days, accounted for more than three-fourths (76 per cent) of the capacity deployed in the market.

Europe bound cargo ship intercept with cocaine in Guyana A CARGO ship which left Suriname destined for Europe was intercepted by local authorities early Monday morning in the Demerara River with approximately 192.42 kilograms of cocaine stashed away. The drug was found concealed under the wooden flooring of a flat rack that is used as a bed for containers. The cocaine, with an estimated street value of US$800 million, was in several rectangular shaped packages that were wrapped with black plastic. According to reports, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) was called in by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), which received a tip-off from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) about possible contraband goods on board the vessel. The Cyprus-registered vessel MV Delta Dies was docked at a wharf in Linden where it uplifted a consignment of bauxite destined for Europe. Local authorities swarmed the cargo ship after the consignment was loaded and found the narcotics. The vessel, along with the flat rack, was subsequently transported to Georgetown and placed at the John Fernandes terminal at Mandela Avenue, Greater Georgetown, on Tuesday morning. Further examinations were done by GRA’s Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) and Drug Examination Unit (DEU), along with CANU. Head of CANU, James Singh, explained that his agency, along with members of the Guyana Police Force and GRA’s DEU, collaborated under the Container Control Programme to make the bust.

The cocaine was found concealed under the wooden flooring of a flat rack that is used as a bed for containers.

“Acting on information, they (GRA) would have received from their counterparts, CANU provided assistance to them alongside members of the Customs Drug Enforcement Unit. This container was found on board a vessel that had come from Suriname.” Singh added, “A check of the vessel showed that the container had contraband inside and as such, we offloaded the container and brought it to Georgetown, where the examination was done.” The CANU head disclosed that at the time they had confirmed an estimated 120 kilograms in cocaine, but advised that this was not a final total. He further stated that the vessel’s next destinations would have been Spain, Holland and Belgium. At John Fernandes Terminal on Tuesday morning, ranks removed the packages from the flat rack which was labelled ALLU 57018 9-42P3. The 11 crew members who were on board the vessel were taken into custody to assist with the

investigations. Surveillance programme Meanwhile, in a statement released by the GRA, the revenue agency pointed out that this joint surveillance programme has proven to be successful. “Today’s discovery of narcotics on board the oceangoing vessel has once again proven the success of the GRA’s joint efforts in tackling the illicit drug trade. The GRA has long recognised the importance of forging regional and international linkages in the ongoing efforts at addressing challenges of a global magnitude such as drug trafficking and the smuggling of goods. The partnership has been successful on several fronts,” the release stated. Back in 2012, Guyana and Suriname were the first two Caribbean countries to join the UN-funded Container Control Programme to improve port security and stop the use of containers for transnational criminal activities, including the trafficking of narcotics via the sea.

Caribbean still No.1 for US cruise passengers Bermuda to be plugged as Barbados and its Caribbean neighbours are still a leading choice cruise lovers, especially those from North America. With local tourism officials expecting a bumper cruise season, a recent study commissioned by one of the world’s leading cruise associations showed there was generally good reason for optimism. Business Research and Economic Advisors, in a 2014 report it said was commissioned by Cruise Lines International Association, said statistics showed the Caribbean remained “the principal cruise destination for passengers sourced from North America”. “While its share of the cruise industry’s global deployment has fallen from 48 per cent in 2003 to 36 per cent in 2013, it still remains the largest destination market with

48.1 million bed days deployed in the region during 2013. This is a 37 per cent increase over the ten-year period,” the report stated. “Within North America, the Caribbean, with 48.1 million bed days, accounted for more than threefourths (76 per cent) of the capacity deployed in the market. Alaska was the next largest region with 6.3 million bed days or 10 per cent of the capacity in the market. “Combined, Hawaii and Mexico West (ports on Mexico’s Pacific coast) accounted for eight per cent of the North American capacity with five million bed days. Finally, cruise lines deployed 3.7 million bed days among destinations in Canada, and the Atlantic coast of the United States, six per cent of the capacity deployed in North America.” (SC)

year-round destination BERMUDA will be marketed as an “Atlantic” destination and not a “Caribbean” destination, and also as a year-round place to vacation. Chief executive officer of the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) Bill Hanbury made the announcement yesterday to Hamilton Rotary Club. He said that Bermuda would capitalise on both its British heritage as well as its “island soul”, calling the merger of cultures “proper fun”. Mr Hanbury said that visitors “ ... love our British and island influences,” and added that Bermuda’s historic antiquities should be better promoted. “Consumers are interested in Bermuda’s British traditions: tea time, cricket, focus on service,” he said.

“There will be no more invented events not reflecting Bermuda’s true heritage, instead the Island should invest in, and nurture Bermuda arts, culture, history and cuisine. “Additionally, there will be more focus on Bermuda’s marine and nautical legacy, as well as its “extraordinary” natural and ecological resources. “Global visitors desire sports and recreational experiences,” he said, and pointed to a series of BTA initiatives. New plans to promote golf include an advisory board, an on-island concierge to ensure visitors can book tee times, and selective sponsorships generating room nights. Scuba diving, which he called “an important niche market.” Providing “ ... a place for athletic

teams in the shoulder season,” including rugby, football, field hockey and swimming. Fishing, sailing and boating “go to our product core.” Running, cycling and triathlons “play an important role,” he concluded. There would be no more talk of an off season, he said, and additional marketing resources would be allocated to the industry’s shoulder periods. He said: “Our winter weather is delightful compared to the US, Canada and the UK,” and pointed out that in Syracuse, New York, the January winter temperature is 24 degrees Fahrenheit, with 34 inches of snow, compared to an average Bermuda temperature of 63 degrees Fahrenheit.

January 10 - 16, 2015

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World News

David Cameron: I can fix EU ‘problem’ DAVID Cameron has said he is “convinced” he can “fix the problems” in the UK’s relationship with Europe that the British public find “very frustrating”. Speaking at a press conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the prime minister said he “profoundly” believed the EU needed to be reformed. Mrs Merkel said she wanted the UK in a “strong and successful Europe”. The two leaders also condemned the deadly shootings in Paris. They offered their condolences to the French people after 12 people - including journalists and police officers - were killed in an attack on the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. WELFARE CURBS The prime minister was holding talks with the German chancellor in Downing Street, which he said would focus on the global economy, security and the UK’s aims for a reformed EU. Reform, he said, was in the best long-term interests of Britain and Europe. The prime minister has called for curbs on EU welfare payments ahead of a referendum on Britain’s membership of the EU if he wins May’s general election. Commenting on the UK’s future in the EU, Mrs Merkel said: “We would very much like to have the UK in a strong and successful Europe.” She insisted there could be “no doubt” about the principle of freedom of movement of people within the EU but accepted there was a need to tackle “abuse” of the rules. But she declined to comment about whether she would support or oppose any of the changes being

Speaking at a press conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left), the prime minister said he “profoundly” believed the EU needed to be reformed.

sought by Mr Cameron. The prime minister earlier accompanied Mrs Merkel to an exhibition on the history of Germany at the British Museum. The five-hour visit, one of a number Mrs Merkel is making to world leaders as part of Germany’s year-long presidency of the G7 group of nations, is likely to be her last to the UK before May’s general election. Mr Cameron has called for a farreaching shake-up of welfare and employment rules across the EU, including requiring migrants to have a job offer before coming to the UK, making them wait four years before they can receive certain benefits and ending the payment of child benefit to dependents of EU migrants overseas. He has said the proposals will, in some cases, require changes to existing treaties and therefore require the support of all 28 members most of whom have said they are fundamentally opposed to anything will infringing the principle of the freedom of movement across the EU. In a joint statement earlier, the two leaders said their talks would focus on tackling instability in the global economy and securing longterm growth, including the prospect

of a trade deal between the EU and US. It’s a question few voters fret about but it looms over today’s talks between David Cameron and Angela Merkel. The prime minister has said many times he wants Britain to have a renegotiated relationship with the EU embedded in a new Treaty. That deal would then be put to British voters in a referendum before the end of 2017 - if the Conservatives win the coming general election. But while Germany backs David Cameron on several areas of EU reform - such as limiting the benefits migrants can claim and completing the single market - Berlin does not want a major rewrite of existing treaties now. It would mean referendums in countries like France and Ireland which may be very hard to win at a time when public confidence in the EU project is fragile. Some of Mr Cameron’s most Eurosceptic backbenchers say a serious, meaningful renegotiation can only be achieved through a new Treaty. Others, like those in the Fresh Start group of Tory MPs, have suggested a reform package they say can be achieved within the existing Treaties. (BBC)

Christian Ferdinand, 22, was sentenced to 29 years to life in prison for murdering his young girlfriend.

Man, 22, sentenced 29 years to life for killing, burning Brooklyn girl, 14 A WANNABE baby killer was sentenced to 29 years to life in prison for murdering his 14-yearold Brooklyn girlfriend because he thought she was pregnant and wouldn’t get an abortion. Christian Ferdinand, 22, who fancies himself as a lady-killer of a different kind, insisted he is innocent in the January 2013 slaying of Shaniesha Forbes, who he had hooked up with through Facebook. After telling Ferdinand that she was pregnant and would not get an abortion, he smothered the teen with a pillow, sprayed the corpse with Axe body spray and ignited it. Then he stuffed Shaniesha inside a suitcase and tossed it into Gerritsen Creek. Several days later she washed up on the beach. An autopsy determined the victim was not pregnant. The pipsqueak punk was in denial mode Wednesday. “I never put a hand on a female in an inappropriate manner,” he told Supreme Court Justice Neil Firetog.

“I would never kill someone over an abortion,” Ferdinand continued. “There’s no reason to take someone’s life just because they said they was pregnant. These are all false things.” “My condolences to the family, but I didn’t kill Shaniesha,” he said. Ferdinand confessed to detectives and asked them if he could get “some kind of community service” for his evil crime, authorities said. Forbes’ cousin Kerri-Ann Thomas read a blistering statement in court on behalf of her grieving family. She said Shaniesha was known as “Mimi” and they would never see her wear a Sweet 16 dress or go to college. “He (Ferdinand) was 20 years old, the age most people consider to be a man but it’s obvious he is no such thing,” Thomas said. “What was he doing with a little girl, a baby, a child? “He talked about his eyes and how he had a hard time keeping girls off him. I hope that works well for him in prison.”

Charlie Hebdo: Major manhunt for Paris gunmen A MAJOR manhunt has been launched for three gunmen who shot dead 12 people at the Paris office of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. Eight journalists, including the magazine’s editor, and two policemen were among the dead. Police have named the suspects, who include two brothers. A police operation is under way in Reims, north-east of Paris. Protests over the attack, the deadliest the country has seen in decades, are being held across France. President Francois Hollande called it a “cowardly murder” and declared a day of national mourning on Thursday.

He said the country’s tradition of free speech had been attacked and called on all French people to stand together. “Our best weapon is our unity,” Mr Hollande said in a televised address late on Wednesday. Security has been stepped up across France in the wake of the attack, with Paris placed on the highest alert. The three suspects have been named in a police document circulated to regional forces as Hamyd Mourad and brothers Said Kouachi and Cherif Kouachi. Media reports described Cherif Kouachi as a militant sentenced in 2008 to three years in prison for belonging to a group sending jihadist fighters to Iraq.

BBC Paris correspondent Lucy Williamson says there are separate reports of police operations taking place outside the capital and in the eastern city of Reims, 140km (90 miles) from Paris. A large security operation involving elite commandoes is taking place in Reims, although officials are refusing to give any details. The satirical weekly has courted controversy in the past with its irreverent take on news and current affairs. It was firebombed in November 2011 a day after it carried a caricature of the Prophet Muhammad. The attack took place as the magazine was holding its weekly editorial meeting. French media

A firefight erupted outside the offices between the attackers and police.

have named three cartoonists killed in the attack as Cabu, Tignous and Wolinski, as well as Charlie Hebdo contributor and French economist Bernard Maris. Charlie Hebdo editor Stephane Charbonnier, 47, had received death threats in the past and was living

under police protection. Cartoonist Corinne Rey, said the hooded gunmen entered the building after forcing her to enter the code to open the door. “They said they belonged to alQaeda,” she said, adding they had spoken in fluent French.

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

Deflation hits Eurozone as energy prices fall

Van den Bleeken has spent nearly 30 years in prison for several rape and murder convictions.

Belgian rapist Van Den Bleeken refused ‘right to die’ A BELGIAN man serving a life sentence for rape and murder will not be allowed to have doctors end his life as he has requested, the justice minister says. Koen Geens said he was respecting the latest medical advice of doctors treating Frank Van den Bleeken, who is unable to control violent sexual urges. Van den Bleeken will be moved to a new psychiatric treatment centre, he added. Belgium is one of three European countries that allows euthanasia for terminally ill people. But Van den Bleeken’s case is the first involving a prisoner since the assisted dying law was introduced 12 years ago.

His request to undergo euthanasia won approval from Belgium’s Federal Euthanasia Commission last September, after years of requests for the state to help him end his life. But on Tuesday, Belgium’s justice ministry released a statement saying Mr Geens “takes note of the decision of doctors treating Mr Frank Van Den Bleeken to no longer continue the euthanasia procedure”. A ministry spokesperson told the BBC that the doctor who was due to carry out the procedure - scheduled for 11 January - had withdrawn and was no longer willing to be involved. ‘What’s the point?’ Van den Bleeken, 52, was convicted in the 1980s of multiple sexual assaults and murder.

A spokesperson said AirAsia will follow Indonesia’s Transport Ministry’s regulations, which set compensation at 1.3 million Indonesian rupiah ($98,000) for deaths caused by aviation accidents.

AirAsia offers $125,000 to families AIRASIA will pay roughly $125,000 in compensation to the families of passengers on board the fatal flight that crashed off the coast of Indonesia last month. The company told CNN it will provide about $100,000 in compensation for each passenger on the plane. That’s in addition to $24,000 already offered to victims’ families. A spokesperson said AirAsia will follow Indonesia’s Transport Ministry’s regulations, which set compensation at 1.3 million Indonesian rupiah ($98,000) for deaths caused by aviation accidents. 162 people were on board Flight

8501, which disappeared on its way from Indonesia to Singapore on December 28. Search crews have recovered parts of the plane and continue to scour the Java Sea for more clues as to why the plane went down. It’s unclear whether the amount being offered by AirAsia will require victims’ families to agree not to pursue other claims for compensation. International treaties play a key role in determining payouts in air accidents, specifically the Montreal Convention. It guarantees a minimum level of compensation for families -- currently about $174,000.

INFLATION in the Eurozone has turned negative, official figures have shown, with prices in December 0.2% lower than the same month a year earlier. The tip into deflation adds pressure on the European Central Bank (ECB) to take further action to stimulate the bloc’s economy. The bank’s inflation target is below but close to 2%. The fall was driven mainly by lower energy costs due to the plunging price of oil. Energy prices in December were 6.3% lower than a year earlier. If energy prices are excluded, December’s inflation rate for the Eurozone was 0.6%, the same as in November. Prices for food, alcohol and tobacco were estimated to be unchanged from a year earlier, after rising 0.5% in November. Prices for services, which had held steady in November, are estimated to have risen 1.2% compared with December 2013. It is the first time the Eurozone has experienced deflation since the depths of the financial crisis in 2009.

‘POLICY FAILURE’ The estimate from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, will be updated later in the month. James Ashley, chief European economist at RBC Capital Markets, said Wednesday’s data was a footnote to the wider economic picture. Arguments over whether inflation was just above or below 0%, and whether the tumbling oil was to blame, were “specious,” he said. “The far more important question is why inflation is anywhere near 0% in the first place: in our view, the inconvenient truth for policymakers is that, in large part, that is a reflection of the failure of policy, both fiscal and monetary.” Howard Archer, chief European economist at IHS Global Insight called the inflation data “dire news for the ECB”. DEBT WORRIES The central bank is increasingly expected to launch a new round of economic stimulus measures, or quantitative easing (QE), and the latest numbers will cement expectations. However, Germany

reportedly opposes more QE. The situation in Greece also complicates the issue. Deflation increases the debt burden, and Greece’s indebtedness to its international bailout creditors is a key issue in the current general election campaign. Greece’s left-wing anti-austerity Syriza party, leading the election polls, wants to re-negotiate the terms of the bailout, sparking fresh worries about the stability of the eurozone. On Wednesday, Greece’s longterm borrowing rate rose above 10%. Yields on the 10-year bonds were trading at 10.07%, up from 9.746% on Tuesday. The main stock market in Athens was also trading down more than 2%. Separately, Eurostat reported that the unemployment rate in the eurozone remained at 11.5% in November, unchanged from October, but down from 11.9% in November 2013. Among the euro-bloc states, the lowest unemployment rates in November were in Austria (4.9%) and Germany (5.0%), and the highest in Greece (25.7% in September 2014) and Spain (23.9%). (BBC)

Sri Lanka’s leader faces crucial poll MILLIONS of Sri Lankans are set to vote in an unexpectedly close election that pits President Mahinda Rajapaksa against one of his former allies. Mr Rajapaksa, in office since 2005, called the election two years early with analysts predicting an easy win. But many voters have since rallied behind the challenger, former minister Maithripala Sirisena. Mr Rajapaksa rode a wave of popularity after the civil war ended in 2009 but he now faces claims of cronyism. His relatives fill many of the the most powerful and influential positions in the country, and critics accuse him of running the state like a family business. Analysts say Mr Sirisena appears to have capitalised on this perception, making gains among Sinhalese who usually vote for Mr Rajapaksa. Mr Sirisena is also expected to win most of the vote from the ethnic minorities that make up 30% of Sri Lanka’s population. Mr Rajapaksa, however, remains hugely popular with many in the Sinhalese majority. He has presided over a period of impressive economic growth and still has political capital from being the leader who brought an end to the war. The election campaign has been

Mahinda Rajapaksa has dominated Sri Lankan politics for a decade.

marred by violence and allegations of intimidation. On Wednesday, an opposition activist died a day after being shot while organising a rally. And election officials said they were looking into claims that the army had been deployed in Tamil areas, allegedly to deter Tamils from voting. Mr Rajapaksa was last elected in 2010, when he defeated his former army chief Sarath Fonseka, who

was later jailed for implicating the government in war crimes. Both sides in the 26-year civil war have been accused of atrocities. Government forces were alleged to have killed many civilians during their final bloody assault on the Tamil Tigers, during which thousands of people were killed. Polling stations were expected to open at 07:00 (01:30 GMT) on Thursday, and results are expected on Friday. (BBC)

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

January 10 - 16, 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

January 10 - 16, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

EMILY FORBES KEW NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a qualified and experienced

MR. GROUPER

MR. TUX

Is looking for a

FERDINAND TOUSSAINT

Is looking for the following persons:

Is looking for a

Housekeeper To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour

Tile Layer Farmer Seamstress Cook Chef 10886

AGNES SWANN Is looking to fill the following positions:

Domestic Worker Labourer

BAY BISTRO

CALASCO

10831

Is looking for a

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.

BLACK BOY AND JEAN TRUCKING Is looking for a

Tire Man

10899

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

ROBIN COX Is looking for a

10824

10885

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

To work 5 days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

contact: 231-1489

10828

contact: 246-1497

AGNES SWANN Is looking for a

Landscape Labourer

• To work 5 days per week • Must be able to work weekends and holidays • Must be knowledgeable of chemicals and fertilization • Must be able to speak English and have own vehicle

labourer To work 6 days

Interested persons please contact: 649-232-2272 10824

contact: 246-4769

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

10902

NOTICE OF SALE BY Labourer PUBLIC AUCTION BAYVIEW MOTORS Is looking to employ a

• Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance, cleaning of the building, refuse removal and any other related duties • All applicants must possess a valid driver’s license • Willing to work weekends and holidays • Must be able to drive a manual vehicle

Please submit all application between 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeway Highway. Providenciales

SUNSET PHARMACY Is looking for a

10783

10832

contact: 332-2621

Is looking for a

waitress Tile Layer

contact: 246-4769

contact: 241-8210

NATURES VISION LTD.

Is looking for a

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

contact: 242-3631

contact: 241-5060

contact: 941-8660

10885

contact: 231-0337

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

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

10887

To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.

VENICE GRAY

TIDES INVESTMENTS LTD. c/o Saunders Management Ltd., Town Centre Mall, 23 Parade Avenue, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following property pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands: UNITS A3-7 and A4-7 SITUATED IN BUILDING “A” AT THE ATRIUM, LEEWARD, BEING PARCELS 60902/186/K29 & K39, LEEWARD GOING THROUGH, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS (the “Property”) The Property consists of a two-storey two-bedroom penthouse apartment at The Atrium containing approximately 2,094 square feet (including large terrace on the second level), having 2 bedrooms, 2-1/2 bathrooms, combined living and dining area, kitchen and large terrace. The registered proprietor is Riva Holdings Ltd.

contact: 242-8477 10884

contact: 941-3751

Is looking for a

labourer To work 5 days

A reserve price will be fixed on the Property. A deposit of 10% of the amount of any accepted bid is due immediately upon the acceptance of a bid.

contact: 243-9961

For more information, contact Laurence C. Caroe of Saunders & Co., Town Centre Mall, 23 Parade Avenue, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Telephone: (649) 941-4500. E-mail: lc@saunders.tc.

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

10822

10883

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

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

10740

domestic worker

The Auction will be held at the offices of Saunders & Co., Second Floor, Town Centre Mall, 23 Parade Avenue at 10 o’clock in the morning on Monday January 27, 2015.

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CHEF/ SOUS CHEF

CLEARVIEW WINDOW CLEANERS

is looking for a

• Organizational skills a must • Solid references • At least 5 years as kitchen leader • Ability to train and lead is necessary • Salary $50k+ 10898

Call: 649-441-3466 Permanent status only

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

contact: 231-0001

10894

Needed for a restaurant on Grace Bay

Local firm seeks an associate attorney with at least 5 years pqe with extensive experience in conveyancing , commercial, residential development work also corporate and commercial law. Experience in new condominium sales, re-sales, residential and commercial property and advantage. Applicant must be an excellent communicator, willing to work long hours including weekends and holidays subject to experience salary commencing at US$55K Please submit applications to The Manager, P.O. Box 97, Caribbean Place, Providenciales, fax: 649-946-4564 with a copy to Department of Labour, Providenciales

10908

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

BAYVIEW MOTORS is looking for a

Junior Automotive Service Advisor/ Customer Care Professional • No experience required… we will train • Must be friendly, enthusiastic, detail oriented with excellent communication skills, a positive attitude and some mechanical aptitude ( we are an Auto Service Facility after all) • Must enjoy a fast paced work environment and meeting people • This entry level position has amazing long-term career potential for the right candidate (male or female) in a very steady and stable profession • Receive service customers, prepare quotes, and provide outstanding service Serious minded individuals with a long term outlook need only apply Please send your resume to: syrmondg@bayviewmotors. com or drop off in person Monday – Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeward Highway Providenciales

Associate Attorney

10904

JOB VACANCY

Momentous Ltd. is seeking qualified individuals to fill the following opening. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including weekends and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers. Applicants will be required to pass a written skills test. Compensation will be commensurate with experience. Suitably qualified Belongers who possess the qualifications listed are encouraged to apply. All applications accepted at www.momentous.tc.

Assistant Manager – Registrar Relations Experience & Qualifications: • Ability to communicate, liaise, and negotiate internally and externally using appropriate methods to facilitate the development of profitable business and sustainable relationships • Strong understanding of Microsoft Office applications and ability to troubleshoot/ diagnose computer and network issues • Diploma in Business Administration or Commerce • 5+ years project management experience • 5+ years managing and executing marketing plans including tradeshow planning & execution and B2B marketing • 5+ years client relationship management • 5+ years policy planning and implementation • 5+ years experience in legal contract drafting and negotiation • 5+ years experience in budget planning, pricing analysis and planning and ROI analysis • Working knowledge of the domain name industry and ICANN Registry policies • Multi-lingual (English & French preferred) 10829

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Paradise Ltd is seeking:

Scooter Store Clerk Requirements: • Must hold current motorcycle license. Vespa technician certification in 4-stroke scooter operation and maintenance strongly preferred. • Must have 5 years’ experience in a retail/accounting/clerical position and proof thereof. • Bachelor’s degree in business or marketing preferred. • Must demonstrate computer proficiency and in-depth knowledge of QuickBooks, Excel, Adobe and Microsoft Word. • Must be available to work early mornings, late nights, weekends and holidays. • Must be organized detail oriented team player with excellent communication skills. Excellent command of English language is required, secondary language of Spanish preferred. • Clean police record required. Belongers need only apply. Salary will commensurate with experience.

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

10826

34 CLASSIFIEDS

Proteus Investments Ltd

Consultant is looking for a Qualified

To expand its advisory services to active or prospective real estate developers in the Caribbean. Candidate must have: 1. Bachelor of Science and or other advanced degree (Master’s or Doctorate) from a Top US or European university. 2. Previous experience with or proven knowledge of the US tax code. 3. English native speaker and fluency in either Mandarin Chinese or Russian. 4. Advanced Microsoft user skills, including: a. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, with ability to create complex financial models. b. Type at a speed of more than 100WPM at 90% accuracy. 5. Real Estate Development or Hospitality experience in at least 2 major departments of a hotel a plus. In addition, Candidate must be willing and able to work on a flexible schedule, including: 1. Travel for large periods of time to North America and across the Caribbean; 2. Work/travel during weekends as needed. 3. Have their own car for routine travel to meet clients on the Island.

Interested candidates that FULFILL ALL REQUIREMENTS above may send their resumes by email to vasco@proteusinv.com on or before December 31st, 2014 . Please, no calls or office visits.

10901

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 35

Management Trainee Programme Come and join our award winning team!!! Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, the only 6 Diamond all inclusive property in the Caribbean is looking to recruit a Trainee Manager. We are inviting applications from suitably qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders. Applicants must have a clean police record and a good command of the English language both written and spoken. In addition candidates must be able to work nights, public holidays and week-ends. The Trainee Manager Programme is designed to develop persons entering into a managerial position via an extensive training program; the individual will learn certain faucets of the Resort’s operation. While working directly with each department, the programme builds cross-functional expertise and allows time for skill development and adjustment to the company culture. Individuals learn directly from our Leaders through on-the-job experience. The Trainee Manager will enter each department with a view of learning the skills appropriate to that area, as well as make suggestions while having a meaningful impact on the department. Applicants must have a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field or a minimum of five (5) years supervisory experience. Applicants are welcome from both the Hospitality Industry and from other types of institutional experience. Candidates must submit along with the application a copy of certifications held and one reference letter. Please ensure the cover letter specifies the Trainee Manager Programme. Please forward your resumes by Friday January 26th 2015 to secure an interview date and time. Feel free to drop your resumes in our secure resume drop-box at the Service Gate, or email it to mmvaughn@grp.sandals.com, or fax to 649 946 4870.

There are also vacant positions available in the following departments and we are inviting Belonger applicants: • Accounts • Bars • Concierge • Cost Control • Dining Room • Engineering • Environmental Health and Safety • Entertainment • Front Office • Gift Shop • Grounds • Housekeeping

• Kids Kamp • Kitchen • Laundry • Photoshop • Public Relations • Projects • Security • Spa • Stewarding • Training • Travel and Loyalty Department • Watersports

Applicants will be contacted via text only to confirm your interview Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to: mmvaughn@grp.sandals.com or Fax to: 941-4870 Attn: M McClean-Vaughn or dropped off in the “Resume Box” at the Service Gate. and should reach not later than January 26th 2015 .

PIZZA CHEF • Must have a minimum 10 years knowledge of Neapolitan and Roman style pizza making • Must have preparation with short and long rising dough’s • Must have experience with a high temperature refractory ovens • Must be willing to work weekends, evenings and holidays • Must be available 6 nights per week • Must speak, read and write English • Must have clean police record Salary $450.00 per week

P.O. Box 543 Belonger Only Need Apply 10893

Lamont's Take-Out seeks

One Assistant Manager

Must have at least 5 years experience and able to work with little or no supervision. Salary is based on experience. Deadline for application is January 22nd 2014 Interested persons should send application via fax to 649-9414034 c/o Alliance Realty Ltd. 10915

SANCHEZ AND WILLIAMS RESTAURANT

Ts looking for a kitchen helper to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 231-2397

10906

LEW & JAN CONSTRUCTION

Medicina Natural Afa Y Omega Is looking for the following positions:

Is looking for a

labourer To work 5 days

Salesperson Promoter Iridology

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 232-7317

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $9.00 per hour.

contact: 343-2080

10909

GTC LIMITED

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

10887

36 CLASSIFIEDS

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

GENERAL MANAGER VACANCIES PRECIOUS TREASURE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Our client is a luxury, full-service resort catering to a distinguished clientele. Exceptional guest service, consistent guest satisfaction and financial profitability are vital to our client’s success. The General Manager will be responsible for leading all aspects of the resort’s day-to-day operations and meeting established performance goals and objectives. The ideal candidate must be a strong leader with thorough knowledge of all aspects of hotel operations within a luxury market environment. Demonstrated business and financial acumen and the ability to deliver results is required. Must possess exceptional employee management, customer/owner relationship, and public relations skills. Minimum Requirements • Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management or Business Administration. Master’s Degree essential • Strong operations background with a minimum 5 years’ experience as a GM within a 4 or 5 Diamond Luxury Caribbean Resort • Extensive knowledge of luxury hotel operations including front of house, F&B, Human Resources and guest security • Excellent financial acumen with experience managing budgets, revenue proposals, and forecasting results • Proven track record of success achieving revenue and service targets • Experience presenting to Residential Boards and/or Owners Associations • Demonstrated ability to lead, train, mentor and develop a team • Ability to develop and manage strong working relationships at all levels of the organization, as well as with resort owners, external vendors and suppliers, and business and community groups • Poised and professional, with a demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a fastpaced environment • Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office and hotel management software

Interested candidates should forward by email credentials to GraceBayRecruitment@ gmail.com for immediate consideration. Candidates must meet the minimum qualifications, 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 education. CLOSING DATE: 19th January 2015 ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED. 10905

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

Trained Daycare Supervisor Experienced daycare assistant PRESCHOOL:

PRESCHOOL SUPERVISOR QUALIFICATION:

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

PRESCHOOL TEACHERS PRESCHOOL TEACHER’S ASSISTANT PRIMARY: TRAINED PRIMARY TEACHERS GRADE 1-6

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

CLEANER:

• Person to keep the classroom and bathrooms clean at all times • Be willing to work until late evenings and on non-school days if required

PLEASE APPLY IN WRITING WITH FULL RESUME TO: THE ADMINISTRATOR Precious Treasures School P.O. Box 293, Providenciales Applications should reach no later than February 15th, 2015

10903

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 37

ALBERT’S CLEANING SERVICES Is looking for a

labourer contact: 243-7785

10913

To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

D & B TILE Is looking for a

labourer

to work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour contact: 10892

DOMESTIC WORKER WANTED To work 8-5pm MondayFriday and some weekends. Must be available when called upon on some weekends the successful candidates will be paid a salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 432-8032 10907

GLOBAL TARDIF ELEVATOR SERVICES is looking for an

Elevator Technician

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $20.00 per hour. contact: 231-7040 10910

Career Opportunities

Grace Bay Club is looking for candidates that have the requirements listed along with an outgoing professional manner. They love to work with different types of people, meet challenges with a positive attitude and live the standards of our organization. Their management style is one that balances a commitment to people and their development with business/financial accountability and delivers an exceptional guest experience

Fine Dining Restaurant Manager Requirements: • Certification in Food & Beverage Management • A minimum of 4 years experience operating a luxury a la carte restaurant • Experience in quality and efficiency initiatives • Must be able to work with different types of people, meet challenges with a positive attitude and live the standards of our organization. • Responsible for ordering and receiving food and beverage shipments. • Maintain food and equipment inventories, and keep inventory records. • Responsible for hiring and training restaurant staff • Evaluate employees and conduct shift line ups and restaurant cost controls • Micros Administrative Knowledge Required. • Certified Departmental Trainer • Extensive knowledge of wines from around the world (Sommelier educational training would be an added advantage) • Expertise in fine wines and knowledge of Wine Spectator’s Award Process. • Ability to conduct Wine Training / tasting and pairing with food. Qualified Belongers need only apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Houseman

Requirements: • Ensure the cleanliness of all hotel areas. • Assist with bellman duties • Maintain household cleaning supplies • Assist in all Housekeeping responsibilities, transporting linen, assist in cleaning of all guests’ room, stocking amenities and linens • Perform any other tasks or projects as directed by Housekeeping Management to continue high levels of guest care. • Ensure inventory is used properly and in supply at all times. • Ensure houseman room is kept clean, tidy and organized at all times • Assist housekeeping staff with laundry removal and unit cleaning • Clean and maintain lobby, entrance doors and bell trolleys Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Cook

Job Requirements: • Middle level culinary skills • Dependable, proactive, organized, team player • Education from a formal culinary program • At least two to three years cooking experience; preparing international breakfast, lunch and dinner in regional cooking environment • Sanitation certificate • Ability to plan, organize and execute meal plans • Must speak and read English fluently • Additional languages an asset Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Domestic Worker/ Housekeeper

Job Requirements: • Ensure the cleanliness of all hotel areas • Assist in all Housekeeping responsibilities, cleaning of all guest rooms, stocking amenities and linens • physical stamina and mobility including ability to reach, kneel and bend

• ability to lift, push and pull required load (usually about 30lbs) • Ensure inventory is used properly and in supply at all times • Possess knowledge of proper cleaning supplies and chemical handling Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Restaurant Servers:

Job Overview: Qualified individuals should have a minimum of 3 years restaurant experience. Individuals must possess strong work ethics; have a working knowledge of fine dining steps of service, and the ability to provide our guests with an outstanding dining experience. Servers should be industry professionals with excellent food and wine knowledge. Job Requirements: • Responsibilities include setup, organization and cleanup of service areas. • Responsible for staying current with daily menu items and changing wine lists. • Must be able to work as part of a motivated, high energy team that takes pride in their work. • Lifting of trays loaded with food, plates and glassware required. • Responsible for responding to any situation at any given time in a professional and courteous manner. This may include answering any questions posed by guests • Stack, lift and carry trays in a systematic and safe manner • Clean and retrieve tables in a neat, timely and professional manner. • Receive, process, and present all food and beverage orders according to Grace Bay Club standards • Responsible for using suggestive selling techniques, when appropriate and doing so in a courteous manner to up sell and in turn increase the average check Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Sous Chef

Duties: • Running of the kitchen on a day to day basis in the absence of the Head Chef. • Lead and inspire the team to ensure the kitchen runs smoothly at all times. • Help develop the junior chefs. • Ensure consistency of produce throughout the kitchen. • Supervise service ensuring presentation of food is compliant with GBC standards. • Assist the Head Chef in menu compilation and possess an in depth knowledge of the full menu. • Support the management team to ensure targets are met with labour and food costs. • Compliance with food labeling and temperature controls. Requirements: • Have previous experience working in a similar role. • Demonstrate excellent communication and influencing skills. • Be able to work effectively as part of a team whilst undertaking a leadership role. Identify ways to improve profitability. • Be able to demonstrate an up to date and in depth understanding of the industry. • Continually strive to achieve personal goals and objectives. • Lead by example and offer clear direction to team. • Be uncompromising in achieving company standards. • Communicate relevant business information regularly, efficiently and concisely to their team. Builds effective and constructive relationships

Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than December 31st 2014 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1050 Email: humanresources@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Gospel performer, songwriter Andrae Crouch dies at 72 LOS ANGELES – Andrae Crouch, a legendary gospel performer, songwriter and choir director whose work graced songs by Michael Jackson and Madonna and movies such as "The Lion King," has died. He was 72. Crouch died Thursday afternoon at Northridge Hospital Medical Center, where he had been admitted Saturday after suffering a heart attack, said his publicist, Brian Mayes. Crouch and his sister, Sandra Crouch, lived in the Pacoima area of Los Angeles, Mayes said. They were pastors at the New Christ Memorial

THE TUSCANY RESORT Is looking for a

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

from the late 1960s and '70s that started the spread of contemporary Christian music. But his influence crossed over into in pop music. Elvis Presley performed his song "I've Got Confidence" for a 1972 gospel album, and Paul Simon" recorded "Jesus Is the Answer" for a 1974 live album. Crouch worked with many other stars, from Diana Ross to Ringo Starr, and his gospel albums sometimes featured performers from other musical genres. His 18th solo album, "The Journey," released in 2011,

featured Chaka Khan, Shelia E., Take 6, Kim Burrell and Marvin Winans. Crouch was one of only a handful of gospel performers to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His choir, The Disciples, sang background for Madonna's song "Like a Prayer." Crouch helped Michael Jackson arrange the King of Pop's 1987 hit song, "Man in the Mirror." He also arranged music for the 1985 film "The Color Purple" -which earned him an Academy Award nomination -- and Disney's "The Lion King" in 1994.

10911

NATURES VISIONS LTD.

MARINA VIEW BEAUTY SALON NORTH CAICOS

Is looking for a

Landscape and Hardscape Supervisor • Must be able to work weekends and holidays • Provide their own vehicle for transportation to and from jobs • Experienced supervisory skills a MUST • Must be able to speak English and have knowledge of Excel/Word and QuickBooks • Must have the ability to work with chemicals and fertilizer • Job requires on site supervision of workers daily and use of machinery Salary $3,000.00 per month.

Is looking for a

Cosmetologist To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

10916

Send written resume to: bnaturesvisions@gmail.com or 232-2272

Priton Development Ltd seeks

contact: 649-243-1018

10897

contact: 941-4667

Church in the Los Angeles suburb of San Fernando. Born in San Francisco, Crouch wrote his first gospel tune at age 14. In a career that spanned more than half a century, Crouch wrote dozens of songs, including gospel favorites such as "The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power," "My Tribute (To God Be the Glory)" and "Soon and Very Soon," which was sung at a public memorial to Jackson. Since he debuted in 1960, Crouch collected seven Grammys. He also helped pioneer the burgeoning "Jesus Music" movement

One Maintenance Personnel Must have at least 5 years experience and able to work with little or no supervision. Salary start at $6.00 per hour and is based on experience. Deadline for application is January 22nd 2015 Interested persons should send application via fax to 649-941-4034 c/o Alliance Realty Ltd.

10914

SPA TROPIQUE

LINE COOK NEEDED Skill Requirements:

Cook eggs and other breakfast items to order to customer’s specification. Cook lunch and dinner items to order to customer’s specification to include, but not limited to: • Cooking meats to temperature such as hamburgers and steaks • Produce salads, sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, burritos, fajitas and other ;; Tex - Mex items that appear on the menu at Somewhere Café and Lounge. ;; Assist with prepping foods for service by following recipe standards, strong knife skills and ;; proper sanitation to produce high quality food that accurately represents the Café. ;; Work with other kitchen staff members to execute food, prioritize steps, and contribute to the overall ;; team atmosphere of the kitchen. ;; Participate in daily cleaning duties as per scheduled by the Chef to maintain a clean safe environment for all employees to work in. ;; Cook on the line, during service in a high pressure environment, executing food to order in an ala minute ;; kitchen according to the ticket in a timely manner. ;; Be able to stand on ones feet for 8 hours and be comfortable lifting 25 pounds or more without physical restrictions. ;; Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule. ;; Belongers given preference Pay Commensurate with Experience

Submit resume, certifications and current police record in person to be considered to: chefamy@somewherecafeandlounge.com 10896

Massage Therapist

• Applicant must have a minimum of 3 years hands-on experience in a 5-star resort and at least 3 years working as a therapist • Must be trained and CERTIFIED by an accredited school in ALL of the following: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Prenatal, Lymphatic Drainage, Myofascial, Reflexology, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures • Applicant must be certified in all the previous areas. In addition, applicant must be all to work ALL weekends and public holidays if needed and be available from 8am-8pm. • Must have own vehicle and current, clean driver’s license, commission based • Must have GREAT customer service skills and be upbeat and positive • Applicants need to be fluent in English and pass an English writing test.

Please send resume to: relax@spatropique.com Please do not apply to this ad unless you can meet all the above requirements Please contact us by January 16th, 2015

10900

January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Contact: 649-946-5300

The Windsong resort Is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the following positions:

• Dining Room Manager • Butler • Front Desk Agent • Reservation

Agent • Housekeeper • Gardener • Houseman • Domestic Worker

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years in the specialized field • Excellent written and communication skills • Must be willing to work holidays and weekends

Please drop your resume at the Windsong resort

Certified Welder - Lay out, fit and fabricate metal components and various metal alloys (aluminum, stainless, etc) to assemble structural forms using knowledge of welding techniques, metallurgy and engineering components - Operates drill presses, power saws, grinders, metal lathes and a variety of welding equipment and hand tools - Analyze sample parts, blueprints, engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations - Remain in a standing position for extended periods of time. - Experienced in SMAW / GMAW / GTAW & oxy-fuel welding / cutting - Must have a valid trade specific certifications with at least 5 years working experience. - Valid drivers license Wage: Based on applicants experience and qualifications

Interested applicants contact Linda on 941-5802 Tibor’s Machine Shop Ltd. 10919

RENTAL AGENT

Is looking for a

Duties include: • All aspects of customer service, car rental sales and dealing with email correspondence pertaining to care reservation • Must be willing to work 5 days per week including weekends and holidays • Salary commensurate with experience

Contact: 946-5300

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

contact: 346-9102

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.05

NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE TITLE NUMBER SECTION ISLAND 20214/45 RURAL SOUTH CAICOS Whereas, SASHA JANELLE LIGHTBOURNE as personal representative of DOUGLAS MCARTHUR LIGHTBOURNE (deceased), has be declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) registered in his/her/their name was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found. Take notice that I, Naomi Been, Acting Deputy Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new land certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette. Dated this 12th day of November 2014. Signed ............................................................ Witnessed .......................................................

10911

• To work around yard, washing vehicles and vehicle maintenance • Must be able to work 5 days per week including weekends and holidays • Salary commensurate with experience

Franklin Aquino

10918

LABOURER NEEDED

10917

His success came despite a lifelong struggle with dyslexia. To create, he would make drawings that allowed him to grasp the concept. For the Jackson song, he drew a mirror with an image in it. "I memorized everything through sight, the shape of the word," Crouch told The Associated Press in 2011. "Some things that I write, you'll see a page with cartoon pictures or a drawing of a car -- like a Ford -- or a flag. I still do it on an occasion when a word is strange to me." "So when I finish a song, I thank God for bringing me through," he continued. "You have to press on and know your calling. That's what I've been doing for all my life. I just went forward." Crouch said his dyslexia contributed to his success. "If I was sharp in every area, I might be too big-headed or something," he said. Crouch had health issues in recent years, including diabetes and cancer. Last month, he was hospitalized for pneumonia and congestive heart failure and had to cancel a tour.

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Jordan’s prince to challenge Blatter for FIFA top spot CAN this prince topple the king of world football’s governing body? Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein has stepped forward to challenge Sepp Blatter for the FIFA presidency at May’s election. Blatter, 78, is seeking a fifth consecutive term in office despite growing disillusion with the way the organization has been run during his tenure. The Swiss, who became president in 1998, has not faced a credible challenger since taking office but will now find himself in the middle of a real battle. “I am seeking the presidency of FIFA because I believe it is time to shift the focus away from administrative controversy and back to sport,” Prince Ali said in a statement. “This was not an easy decision. It came after careful consideration and many discussions with respected FIFA colleagues over the last few months. “The message I heard, over and over, was that it is time for a change. The world’s game deserves a world-class governing body — an International Federation that is a service organization and a model of ethics, transparency and good governance.” FIFA has been heavily criticised following allegations of corruption over its bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Russia was awarded the 2018 World Cup and Qatar the event for 2022. A FIFA investigation found no wrongdoing in the process.

Prince Ali, 39, was elected FIFA vice president representing Asia in 2011. He also serves as the president of Jordan’s soccer governing body and is founder and president of the West Asia Football Federation.

Prince Ali, 39, is the third son of Jordan’s late King Hussein from his marriage to his third wife, Queen Alia. He was elected FIFA vice president representing Asia in 2011. He also serves as the president of Jordan’s soccer governing body and is founder and president of the West Asia Football Federation. Prince Ali has played a key role in the promotion of women’s sport, securing Jordan’s position as hosts of the Women’s under-17 World Cup which is scheduled to take place next

year. He also successfully campaigned to lift the ban on female Islamic players wearing headscarves during competition. The Asian Football Development Project, a nonprofit organisation, was created by Prince Ali in 2012 to encourage youth participation in football throughout the continent. It runs projects across Asia on empowering women within football, youth development and raising knowledge of the game.

Prince Ali is believed to already have secured the backing of Michel Platini, the president of UEFA, Europe’s governing body. Platini is expected to examine the policies and manifesto of the Jordanian royal before recommending to the 54 members of Uefa that they back the candidate at the election on May 29 in Zurich. In a statement made on Tuesday, the Frenchman said: “I know Prince Ali well. He has all the credibility required to hold high office. We now await his proposals and his programme for the future of football.” But Prince Ali faces a more difficult challenge to secure support from his own region with a number of countries in the Asian Football Confederation likely to support his opponent. Speaking to reporters last November, Shaikh Salman bin Al Khalifa, head of the AFC, reiterated his confederation’s support for Blatter. “We made it clear during the Brazil congress (in June) and even in the official nomination when President Blatter nominated himself and we all said that AFC is supporting of Sepp Blatter in the next election,” he told reporters last year. “This is the decision by the congress and a decision by the exco. What I heard in the media is so far unofficial and I can’t comment on that. All I can comment on about is the official stand where the AFC and the exco have made it clear. “I’m just focusing on what we have decided upon and agreed upon

and I think that Jordan and Prince Ali were a part of that Congress. “I think we made up our mind and we decided and that’s it. We are, lets say, a nation that we don’t change our minds. Once we commit and we give our word then we are committed.” One additional problem facing Prince Ali is that his own place on the executive committee could come under threat. According to a rule change implemented last June by the AFC, the head of the confederation, in this case Sheik Salman, will take the seat on the executive committee and the vice presidency too. To ensure he remains on the executive committee, Prince Ali will have to win one of Asia’s seats if he is to keep his place. Prince Ali will attend the Asia Cup in Australia which begins this week and is expected to be quizzed on his proposals and policies. But he remains adamant that any campaign should be about football and not the organization he is hoping to lead. “The headlines should be about football, not about FIFA,” he said. “FIFA exists to serve a sport which unites billions of people from all over the world, people of differing and divergent political, religious and social affiliations, who come together in their enjoyment of ‘the world’s game.’” Prince Ali joins Frenchman Jerome Champagne in announcing his intention to stand against Blatter. The cut off point for those wanting to contest the election is January 29. (CNN)

Steven Gerrard to join LA Galaxy FROM Liverpool to Los Angeles -Steven Gerrard’s move to California has been confirmed. The former England captain will play Major League Soccer with LA Galaxy after deciding to bring an end to his 17 years at Anfield. “I’m very excited to begin the next chapter of my career in the United States with LA Galaxy,” Gerrard told the American’ club’s website. “The Galaxy are the most successful club in Major League Soccer history and I am looking forward to competing for more championships in the years to come. Gerrard, 34, is expected to arrive in LA in July where he will team up with Bruce Arena, the Galaxy coach. The MLS club did not disclose details of how long Gerrard had signed for. “My discussions with Bruce Arena

and Chris Klein were extremely positive and the future of the team is very bright,” said Gerrard, referring to the Galaxy president. “I am committed to helping the LA Galaxy compete for trophies and to having an impact in Los Angeles and I will give my all for the club. “In the meantime, I will continue to give everything for Liverpool for the remainder of this season before joining up with the Galaxy.” Speaking to Liverpool’s in-house TV channel last weekend, the player himself confirmed that the U.S. would be his next destination. “I can tell the supporters at the moment that it will be America,” he said. “But I’m not over the line with any team just yet. I’m close and as soon as I know, I’ll make the announcement, I’ll do the bits and

bobs that I need to do. “Then we try to go and win a trophy and forget about Steven Gerrard for a bit.” Gerrard says his decision to move to the U.S. came after discussions with Brendan Rodgers, the Liverpool manager, in which he was told that he would no longer be a regular starter. “There was more than one moment that has made me come to this decision, but I think the key conversation or moment was with the manager when he sat me down not so long ago and said it was time to manage my games for me and for the team,” Gerrard said. “I’m bright enough to realize it is the right thing for everyone, but when you’ve been a starter and a mainstay in the team for such a long time, it was a very difficult conversation to have with the manager.

Steven Gerrard, 34, is expected to arrive in LA in July where he will team up with Bruce Arena, the Galaxy coach.

“I accept it and I’ll continue to give everything I’ve got, whether I’m starting, coming off the bench or whatever, but that was the key conversation that swung me to deciding to come away for a short while.

“I had an idea it was going to come at some time - I’m a human, not a robot. I’m not 24. I wish I was 24, I wish I’d met Brendan when I was 24 because I think I’d be sitting here talking about a lot of titles that we’d won together.”

January 10 - 16, 2015

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Barcelona president says Messi is ‘happy and will stay’

The Australian captain scored his fourth century in successive Tests.

Smith equals Bradman and Kallis record AUSTRALIA captain Steve Smith scored his fourth century in successive Tests to put his side in control of the fourth Test against India in Sydney. Smith’s 117 saw him match Sir Donald Bradman and Jacques Kallis’s record of four hundreds in a series. The stand-in captain shared a 196-run partnership with Shane Watson (81) for the third wicket as Australia declared their first innings on 572-7. India recovered from the early

loss of Murali Vijay to close day three on 342-55. Shaun Marsh (73) and Joe Burns (58) also scored half-centuries as all of Australia’s top six batsmen passed 50. Opener David Warner scored a century on the first day. Smith has scored 698 runs at an average of 139.60 in seven innings in the series. Australia have already secured the series after winning the first two Tests in Adelaide and Brisbane and drawing the third in Melbourne. (BBC)

LIONEL Messi is happy at Barcelona and will stay with the club until at least the end of his contract in 2018, says president Josep Maria Bartomeu. Reports in Spain suggest that La Liga’s all-time record goalscorer, 27, is unhappy under coach Luis Enrique. But Bartomeu said: “Messi has a contract until 2018, he is happy with the club and wants to win more titles. “There is nothing to panic about in that regard. Messi is the central figure. The team is built around him.” He added: “The whole footballing world knows that Barca don’t want to sell Messi. For me he is the best player in the world.” Messi started on the bench as Barcelona lost to Real Sociedad at the weekend. The defeat meant they remained second in the La Liga table, a point behind fierce rivals Real Madrid. In November, Enrique insisted Messi was “delighted” to be at Barca after reports linked the Argentine with a move away from the Nou Camp. Talk of a transfer has resurfaced in recent days, with rumours Messi could be interested in a move to English Premier League side Chelsea.

Lionel Messi has a contract until 2018, and Barcelona’s president Josep Maria Bartomeu said: “he is happy with the club and wants to win more titles”.

Catalan radio has claimed that the London club has contacted Messi’s father and agent Jorge. But Bartomeu told a news conference: “These news stories are created to try to damage FC Barcelona. They are written with the intention of creating conflicts where conflict does not exist. “Ultimately these are questions that you have to direct to Enrique and Messi, but from the contact I have made they are getting on fine

and want to win titles. “Enrique has a project that he is working on. Of course, we always want to win, but there is no doubting him. “All the turmoil around the club will affect the team. That is precisely why we have called an election.” Bartomeu has called elections for the end of the season after conceding the club has been affected by “an astonishing amount of tension over the last few weeks”.

‘Nervous’ Nadal a doubt for Aus Open following 1st round Qatar exit

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali is said to have made a full recovery.

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali released from hospital

BOXING legend Muhammad Ali has been released from a hospital after being admitted last month with a severe urinary tract infection. The three-time world heavyweight champion, a cultural icon, is back home after being discharged on Tuesday night, a family spokesman said. Bob Gunnell said the 72-year-old had made a full recovery and his family thanked everyone for their

support. Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1984, after quitting boxing. He appeared in public at a ceremony in September in his hometown of Louisville for the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards. The name of the hospital where Ali was treated has not been disclosed. (BBC)

RAFAEL Nadal says he’s unsure if he will play at this month’s Australian Open after slumping to defeat in the opening round of the Qatar Open in Doha. The world No. 3 was dumped out of the season opener by 34-year-old German qualifier Michael Berrer 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a match lasting a little under two hours. Nadal, who defeated Gael Monfils in the final 12 months ago, admitted to being nervous in his first tour match since undergoing appendix surgery last November. “I was playing with more nerves than usual. I knew that winning a couple of matches here will help me, so that makes me play a little bit more under more tension,” Nadal said, the ATP Tour website reported. His second defeat inside a week -- Nadal lost in straight sets to Andy Murray at an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi on January 3 -- has cast doubt in his own mind if he is ready for the season’s opening grand slam in Melbourne which gets underway on January 19. “This is the third comeback of my career after injury, so we will see

Rafael Nadal was beaten by the world No. 127 Michael Berrer at the Qatar Open in Doha.

how it goes in a couple of months. I wanted to start well, but it was not the case today,” Nadal said, Agence France-Presse reported. “I also want to play in the Australian Open which is a tournament I like a lot. I don’t know if that will be the case either, but I am going to work for it. If not I will be playing at Rio and Buenos Aires (ATP Tour clay court tournaments taking place in February).

“The season is long. After coming back from injury you can’t see the immediate moment, you have to look further ahead a little bit.” After suffering a back injury in last year’s Australian Open final defeat to Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka, and missing the U.S. Open in September with a wrist injury, Nadal could be forgiven for being cautious about his return.

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

Convicted rapist’s search for soccer club goes on AN ENGLISH soccer club has apparently abandoned an attempt to sign a convicted rapist amid an atmosphere of “intimidation, abuse and harassment.” According to the leader of Oldham council, Oldham Athletic won’t be handing a deal to Ched Evans, who was released from prison in October after serving half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old girl. Only on Wednesday the owner of the Lancashire club, Simon Corney, had said there was 80% chance Evans would be hired but a furious reaction from the public seems to have ended its interest. Condemnation from politicians and the local Police and Crime Commissioner greeted the news the fourth tier club was interested, with two sponsors saying they’d sever ties with Oldham should Evans sign. As an online petition against Evans joining neared 70,000 signatures, Oldham council leader Jim McMahon released a statement Thursday saying he understood the deal was off. “The whole episode has divided the town and public opinion and there are no winners in all this -- not least of all the reputation of our club and town,” he said. “In recent days we’ve seen a horrendous ‘trial by social media’ with intimidation, abuse and harassment on a scale that has cast a terrible shadow. “I am urging people on all sides of this debate to please now take stock, show some restraint and calm. “I’ve always believed in rehabilitation but felt that both club

The four-time Olympic champion Sir Bradley Wiggins will try to break the individual world hour record as part of his build-up to Rio with Team Wiggins.

Wiggins launches new track and road cycling team The 26-year-old Evans, who insists he is innocent and is appealing against his conviction, looks further away from getting back on the playing field than ever after this latest snub.

and player should have allowed Mr Evans’ appeal to run its course before agreeing a contract. “As it stands Mr Evans has been found guilty in a court of law and has not yet completed his sentence. However, I take no pleasure in this outcome.” With Oldham declining to comment, the 26-year-old Evans, who insists he is innocent and is appealing against his conviction, looks further away from getting back on the playing field than ever after this latest snub. Evans began his career with current English Premier League champion Manchester City, before joining Sheffield United in 2009. Upon his release from prison,

Kohli makes cricket history VIRAT Kohli became the first man to make three Test centuries in his first three innings as captain on an eventful third day of the fourth Test against Australia in Sydney. He made an unbeaten 140, while Lokesh Rahul, with 110, helped India finish on 342-5, in response to 572-7 declared. Rahul was dropped on 46 by captain Steve Smith, who blamed television device ‘spidercam’ for the error.

Smith was “distracted by one of the wires in his eyeline”, said Australia. Spidercam is a camera system which gives viewers a bird’s eye view of the action using cables to carry a camera on wires above the action. Australia have already secured the series after winning the first two Tests in Adelaide and Brisbane and drawing the third in Melbourne. (BBC)

Virat Kohli became the first man to make three Test centuries in his first three innings as captain.

the club’s plan to allow Evans to train with them provoked a public backlash, with 160,000 people signing a petition against the move. A proposed deal with Hartlepool was also dropped following a similar reaction, the north east town’s Labour MP calling Evans a “pariah.” Evans released a statement Thursday, through the Professional Footballers Association, in which he apologised for the effect the case has had on his victim’s life. “Upon legal advice I was told not to discuss the events in question,” he said. “This silence has been misinterpreted as arrogance and I would like to state that this could not be further from the truth.

FORMER Tour de France champion Sir Bradley Wiggins has launched his own cycling team as part of his preparations for the Rio 2016 Olympics. The four-time Olympic champion will try to break the individual world hour record as part of his build-up to Rio with Team Wiggins. “Cycling has given me everything,” said the 34-year-old. “I want to build something to inspire kids and to reach all those people who might be on the fringes of the sport.” He added: “My message is simple: if I can do it, then so can you.” The team will feature young British talent including England’s Andy Tennant, Jon Dibben, Steven Burke, Daniel Patten and Mike Thompson, Welshman Owain Doull, Mark Christian of the Isle of Man and Scotland’s

Iain Paton. The team’s calendar of UK track and road events will be unveiled in spring 2015. Team Wiggins will operate independently of British Cycling, but the governing body has given its backing to the outfit, which aims to provide opportunities for British riders to gain experience and track time together in the build-up to Rio 2016. British Cycling chief executive Ian Drake said Wiggins has “helped to inspire a new generation of British cyclists”. He added: “Sir Bradley won his first Olympic medal in Sydney in 2000 and it’s impressive to see him still breaking new ground now, 15 years later with his Wiggins team.” Wiggins will continue to ride with Team Sky until April, before switching his focus to the track and his Olympic bid. (BBC)

January 10 - 16, 2015

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

2014 Year in Review January to March

The Cricket Board Executive members (l-r): Winston Quelch, Gareth Butler, Colin Sterling, Michael Pereira and Ancell Williams.

scored two home runs, won 9-8 for their first win at this level.

FEBRUARY Sterling re-elected cricket chief CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb (third from left), feels confident that the TCI government and the local football association can work together to host international games on our soil.

January: Webb gives TCI green light to host internationals

In January TCI got some good news when president of CONCACAF Jeffrey Webb gave his

approval (with recommendations) for the TCIFA to host regional games in the near future. Webb was invited to the TCI by then TCIFA General Secretary Sonia Bien-Aime.

TCI beat Bulgaria in Co-

Ed Slow Pitch World Cup clash

THE TURKS and Caicos national co-ed softball team defeated Bulgaria when they played in the 2014 Co-Ed Slow Pitch World Cup on January 23 in Tampa Bay, Florida. TCI led by Quimby Hall, who

Colin Sterling was re-elected as cricket president when the TCI Cricket Association held their AGM and elections in early February. Sterling, who will serve the association until 2016, had indicated that his executive’s focus would be on building youth and female cricket on the islands. Saved as: Delano TCI1 Caption:

Delano Williams ran 47.51s at the meet.

Williams runs new 400M PB in season opener

TCI born, world rated, sprinter Delano Williams stormed to a new personal best in the 400M when he competed in his season opener, the Camperdown Classic, in February last year at the National Stadium in Jamaica. The 200M World Junior champion, who accelerated in the final 150M, stormed to 47.51s to eclipse the 47.81s he ran in January of 2013 at the Queen’s/Grace Jackson meet. Williams’s 47.81s was the TCI’s national record at that time; his new PB could not have been considered since he switched allegiances to Great Britain in 2013. The former Munro College star sprinter posted a better time that Senior World Champion 200M silver medallist and teammate at Racers Warren Weir (47.53s) in that race.

Outstanding TCI U-9 footballers lose gruelling semi-final battle

OUR young footballers were national heroes in mid-February in the USA. After playing undefeated in the group stage of the AS Roma President’s Day Cup in Orlando— the only U-9 team to do so, the young boys battled their hearts out in a gruelling semi-final clash against a formidable side: the North Florida Fustal Knights. They lost on penalties 4-3 after a 3-3 tie. The TCI players had won their three group stage games. They defeated the Florida Vikings (4-1), the Braden River Rage (5-0) and the Detroit’s Canton Celtic (5-1) at the February 15-17 event.

Garland breaks national indoor record twice in two days

TCI’s sprinter Angelo Garland is the new national 400M indoor record holder. The freshman at the Texas A&M University Corpus Christi also etched his name in his school’s record books when he competed at the Southland Conference Indoor Championships on February 26 and February 27 at the Birmingham CrossPlex Indoor Track in Birmingham, Alabama. Garland powered to 48.59s, before better his time in less than 24 hours (48.47s). Prior to the feat, another US based athlete Ifeanyi Otuonye had held the indoor record (48.82s) since February of 2013. Garland is also the holder of the junior outdoor 400M record (48.14s).

MARCH Flawless TCI whip

Caption: TCI’s youngest ever national football team to play overseas showed heart and grit at the competition.

AS Roma President’s Day Cup:

continued 

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

2014 Year in Review January to March

continued 

Bayonne Bombers

In early March the national rugby team, the Flamingos, won their third consecutive encounter with the New Jersey Bayonne Bomber, this time by a 47-0 margin. In 2006 TCI had won 50-3, while in 2011 the game ended 46-12.

PABA/Kia All-Star Weekend:

West three-peat after exciting double overtime win

THE WESTERN All-Stars stamped their authority on the PABA organised, fourth annual Kia All-Star

Three-time champions the Western All Stars with their spoils. Chad Campbell (left) was named MVP after scoring 18 points and grabbing five boards.

Weekend after they won the highly entertaining senior championship game for the third consecutive year. The Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex was brim with excitement over the weekend as the West used their quickness and sharp shooting to romp to a double overtime (92-90 points) win. Owing to the win, the Flyers’ Chad Campbell was named MVP. Campbell scored 18 points and pulled down five boards. The GT Stallions’ Ray Harris powered his way to a huge double double (27 points, 14 rebounds and five assists) and would have easily gotten the gold if the East had won. Duran Dean won the threepoint title after he drilled ten shots, including two money balls, from beyond the arc, while Kadis Simmons completed the skills challenge in 32.7 seconds to record a victory. TCI High School Track and Field Championships:

Clement Howell athletes defend overall title

Angelo Garland became the national indoor 400M record holder in late February.

CLEMENT Howell High School athletes stamped their authority on the 2014 TCI High School Track and Field Championships with a comprehensive overall victory. In the process they not only defended their title, but produced three class winners including overall male champion Jevoy Knight. This year’s event, held at the National Stadium from Sunday to Tuesday last ended with the champion school beating their rivals HJ Robinson by 149 points after their continued 

Yanique Haye-Smith broke a four-year old meet record en route to an 800M win.

January 10 - 16, 2015

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Will the 2014-2015 season be another conquest for the GT Stallions or will another team step into the limelight?

PABA Night League:

Undefeated Knights and Predators to battle THE KNIGHTS and the Predators will battle in the clash of the undefeated sides when action in the Provo Amateur Basketball

Association (PABA) Night League continues at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court, in Providenciales this Friday evening.

2014 Year in Review continued 

females dominated the races. CHHS finished with 796 points, while HJ Robinson ended on 647 points, Raymond Gardiner on 515, Marjorie Basden High on 284.5, TCIPS Comprehensive High 231, British West Indies Collegiate (BWIC) 211.5, Maranatha Academy 167, Wesley Methodist on 103 and Holy Family Academy on 50.

Haye-Smith breaks meet record to win 800M at Shamrock Invitational

GRAND Turk based Yanique

Haye-Smith broke the Shamrock Invitational 800M meet record en route to victory when she competed in her first outdoor event on March 22 at the Doug Shaw Stadium in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The 23-year-old Jamaica born who is married to national athletics coach Alvirto Smith had ended her indoor season prematurely due to the adverse weather in the USA. The 2011 NCAA Division II 400M hurdles champion made up for her absence on the track when she ran her personal best in the 800M. Her time of 2:10.00 eclipsed the former meet record (2:10.90) set by Lauren Hardesty in 2010.

After a break for the holidays, action will tip off with the powerful defending champions the Grand Turk Stallions meeting the ever dangerous Police Badgers. The Badgers have played undefeated so far while the Stallions have one loss to their name. In the feature clash the Knights, who defeated both the Stallions and the Five Cays Flyers this season, will look to continue their good performance when they meet the Predators. Action continues on Saturday night when the Coca Cola Classics take on the Nazarene Kings and the Spartans battle the young athletic Sonics. The Sonics will try to secure their second win of the season. Both the Kings and the Sonics are comprised primarily of players from the high schools in Providenciales. In an invited comment president of the PABA Sydwell Glasgow reaffirmed his association’s devotion to developing the sport in the TCI. “The motto of the PABA is “Basketball for Everyone”. The PABA is committed to provide wholesome positive basketball entertainment for everyone!” MUCH WORK TO BE DONE Glasgow is hoping that all stakeholders can get involved in helping the PABA to take the sport to

the next level in 2015. “There is much work to be done and your help is needed to ensure the success of the sport of basketball that has grown so rapidly over the past five years.” He said that this growth was evident in the successful completion of the recently held National High School Basketball Tournament which was spearheaded by the PABA. “Let us all continue to

work together for the continued development of this sport we all love so much.” “I would like to use this opportunity to wish all teams, players, coaches, fans and sponsors a happy and prosperous new year. A heartfelt thank you is extended to all those fans that supported the PABA during the past year and I do look forward to your continued support during this year.”

President’s Cup:

Rozo FC to sit out first round – Beaches to play Cheshire Hall DEFENDING champions of the President’s Cup Cheshire Hall will open against Beaches while former champions Rozo FC have drawn a bye according to the much anticipated President’s Cup draw which was done earlier this week in Providenciales. Action bullies off this Saturday with the Teachers FC tackling Mango Reef Trailblazers

from 17:30h, while at 19:45h defending Provo Premier League champions the AFC Academy will meet the SWA Sharks. On Tuesday evening from 19:00h Cheshire Hall and Beaches will be in action. According to the competition rules if a match is drawn, no extra time will be played and a penalty shootout will take place right away.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015

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January 10 - 16, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 10 - 16, 2015