TCWN July 27 - August 2

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 29| July 27 - August 2, 2013

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NO SPENDING

CUTS

– Budget 2013/2014 passes the House

After four days of presentations and debate on the Budget for financial year 2013/14, which at times got fractious among the Government and Opposition members, the House of Assembly passed the Appropriations Bill and Estimates at 6.30pm on Thursday (July 25).

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TCI’s ultimate physique competition set for this weekend

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$55 million operating surplus 7

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TCI to adopt climate change adaptation PAGE 6 strategies

Hanchell wins Supreme Court case PAGE 

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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No spending cuts

– Budget 2013/2014 passes the House AFTER four days of presentations and debate on the Budget for financial year 2013/14, which at times got fractious among the Government and Opposition members, the House of Assembly passed the Appropriations Bill and Estimates at 6.30pm on Thursday (July 25).

Themed ‘Policy Change for Progress,’ it was presented by Minister of Finance, Washington Misick on Monday (July 22) who promised “absolutely no spending cuts, but instead, an increase in expenses for better service delivery”.

“The Budget for fiscal 2013-14 includes estimated revenues of $214 million, expenditures of $199.8 million, and contributions to the development fund of $16.8 million and transfers to the sinking funds of $11.1 million, of which $2.6 million was made in April,” Misick told the House.

He noted that a number of temporary tax measures have been implemented to meet Government commitments pending the recommendations of the recently appointed Blue Ribbon Commission, and the introduction of what is hoped will be a broad based consumer tax.

Misick added that the remaining growth in revenue projection will come from increased economic activity in 2013.

The aim, he said, is to lower the barrier for investment, and the reduction of the overall tax burden.

This year’s estimates include some new revenue measures which are being implemented to enhance revenue collections and broaden the tax base, Misick said, adding that the new revenue department will be using all legal tools available to ensure that there is appropriate enforcement of the tax ordinances and maximum compliance by individuals and corporate entities.

REVENUE PROJECTIONS AND TAX POLICIES The proposed revenue estimates for 2013/14 is a total of $214 million, compared to total revenue of $239.4 million for the previous year, a reduction of 10 per cent, due mainly to a sharp expected decline in civil recovery and grants, the Finance Minister said.

He said: “Revenue growth rates for the existing revenue streams are assumed to average around five per cent for the next three years, with the positive effects of any new revenue enhancing measures being reflected in financial years 2014/15 and 2015/16.

“Recurrent revenues estimates of $189.4 million, which is $18.1 million or 10 per cent above last

year’s receipts, are expected to increase moderately from 2013/14 onwards.”

According to the Minister, the forecasted increases will be as a result of the Government’s deliberate policy interventions and normal business activity.

Both of which are expected to positively affect major macroeconomic indicators in the local economy during this financial year.

Import duty Import duty for the year is set at $50.6 million, an increase of $2.4 million or approximately five per cent over the previous financial year.

He said there are no tariff increase estimates in the budget.

“At the end of the first quarter we collected $13 million, indicating a strong rebound of economic activities.”

Customs processing fees An estimated $19.8 million is expected in this area. This represents an increase of five per cent over the previous year’s outturn.

Misick pointed out that these fees are paid by all importers on all imported items; therefore concessions included in some development agreements, do not apply to these this charges.

He added that at the end of the first quarter $5.1 million was collected.

Accommodation Tax The Finance Minister reported an eight per cent increase in collections will be seen in this area. This will result in a total amount of $36.7 million.

Five of the projected eight per cent increase, will be due to economic activity while the three per cent increase is based on expected improvement of compliance and enforcement by the new revenue department.

Misick said: “Total receipt after the first three months of operation is $11.4 million, which should increase gradually with the implementation of the new one per cent rate increase in July 2013.

“Despite the challenge we face by the closure of Beaches in September and October, we will continue to work with the industry to ensure the growth and expansion of the industry.

“In the end, my Government anticipates a steady increase in tourist arrivals with the recent opening of Key West Village (formerly Veranda Resort and Residence), and increased promotion by stakeholder

in the industry,” Misick informed the House.

Stamp Duty on land transactions The $15.1 million which the budget projects for 2013/14 reflects a $1.2 million or 8.5 per cent increase over the previous year.

Misick noted that stamp duty outturn is showing encouraging results with $5.6 million already collected in the first three months of the new financial year.

Work Permit fees He added that revenue from Work Permit fees for this year has been increased to $11.6 million, reflecting an overall increase of six per cent over the previous year’s result.

“Year to date outturn for the first three month of the new financial year was an encouraging $3.1 million.”

Other recurrent revenue This is forecasted to increase by an average of five per cent, in keeping with the overall revenue strategy outlined in the Government’s fiscal and strategic policy statement (FSPS).

Other recurrent revenues included in the budget are fuel tax of $7.2 million, business licensing renewals of $2.9 million, vehicle licences of $3.3 million, telecommunication tax of $3.3 million, gaming machine tax of $2.3 million and bank services tax of $2 million.

Non-recurrent revenue Misick stated that $19.3 million, compared to receipts of $47.4 million in the last financial year, is expected for 2013/14.

Non-recurrent revenue includes civil recovery, SIPT income and receipts from land sales, in addition to grant funds from the European Union, and others.

He said: “Its sharp decline is mainly due to civil recovery falling from $28.2 million in 2012/13 to $5 million in 2013/14.

“The expected decline in grant funding will also contribute to the decline in non-recurrent revenue.”

NEW REVENUE MEASURES In this area, the Finance Minister observed that since the people of the TCI backed the Government in its decision that the VAT model proposed was not the best revenue measure for the country, it had to implement other revenue raising ideas to replace VAT. “We reviewed and prepared revenue models for a number of suggestions from internal and

external stakeholders and we are convinced that the measures adopted are the least burdensome at this time.

“In any event, these measures are expected to be short term,” Misick said.

He noted that with the technical assistance provided by the United Kingdom government a ‘Blue Ribbon Committee’ has been appointed to conduct a complete review of the taxation regime of the country.

Misick said: “We expect to be in a position to implement the recommendations for the financial year beginning April 1, 2014.

“In the meantime, I appeal to all stakeholders to understand and support the temporary increases in the various revenue measures leading up to the 2013/14 Budget.”

He said the rate increase in the accommodation tax, from the current 11 per cent to 12 per cent became effective as of July 8 this year, and is expected to result in additional revenue of about $3.1 million per annum, based on actual collections for the last financial year.

“However, to be prudent, we forecasted revenue of $1.1 million in FY2013/14 or about 50 per cent of the computed revenue for the nine months period beginning July, 2013,” the Minister said.

The general sales tax will be a single stage, broad-based tax levied on professional and other services provided in the TCI, with allowances for a schedule of exemptions such as health and education.

He added that the rate adopted will be six per cent and the target date for implementation is October 1.

This tax is forecasted to collect

revenue of about $2.5 million per annum, however, the Minister added that to be prudent Government forecasted revenue of only $0.9 million in for 2013/14 or about 70 per cent of the calculated revenue for the six months period beginning October 1.

As it relates to communication tax, Misick noted that this is an expansion of the current communication tax regime to include cable and internet services, effective October 1.

There is a projected increase in revenue of about $2 million per annum.

In this too, the Government is exercising prudence in its estimation of only $0.8 million for the year, which is a reflection of 80 per cent of the revenue expected for the six months period beginning October 1.

“The fee of $30 for up to 90 days, effective as of October 1, 2013, will be imposed on all rentals of vehicles and motorcycles and will be charged and collected on all rental agreement contracts by the leaser to lessees holding valid driver’s licences issued by countries other than TCI.” He stated that car rental companies will be required to include this fee on the rental contracts or issue the temporary licence provided by the Road Safety Department.

“The revenue anticipated from this new measure is about $1.1 million per annum, but again to be prudent we projected only about $260,000 for FY2013/14 or about 50 per cent of the revenue expected for the six months period beginning October 1, 2013,” he said.

Meanwhile, the freight and continued 

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Narine - News/features Editor Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

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July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Constitutional changes

PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, has promised a review of the 2011 Constitution in his response to the report of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Fact Finding Mission.

According to him, work in this area will begin during the first session after the 2013/2014 Budget debates.

What are your thoughts?

Question of timeliness

This is terribly long.

Why does everything takes forever to be addressed? It seems that nothing is done timely.

No wonder we have more problems in the TCI than 'Van Camp' has pork and beans.

Promises, promises I hope his constitutional revision will be better than his hospital contract!

A question of confidence

First Mr. Ewing, we would not be in this problem if it weren't for your party's greed and unscrupulous, wasteful, autocratic behaviour now we have to deal our hand of the deck!

Secondly, our people are nonconfrontational, talkative, backbiters.

They are running everywhere except to Government house with their problems.

Leave the Bahamas alone

My biggest problem is having the Bahamas involved.

Dr. Ewing you need to leave the Bahamas alone; when it comes to 'problem solving' and overseeing.

That country is in a complete mess.

Financially, they are just as bankrupt as the TCI; socio- economically, high unemployment, high crime, high murder rate and drug related crimes.

Why only now

My question is why we waited so long to

address the grievances with the British government.

We are British and we should be respected and treated likewise in all aspects of governing, citizenry.

I think the issue of the transfer of resources out of the country should be brought up for discussion at the council in England.

I am quite sure that they too, would like to know how the law firm was paid $13m from the $19.5m cash recovered; therefore, only $6m cash was returned to the TCI Treasury.

Where are the contracts and agreements as to their compensation?

The way I see it, the thieves who had it should have kept it! We are not making their salaries in the TCI and this definitely has to be addressed.

Authority question

Ewing is assuming authority from CARICOM who cannot grant it.

CARICOM is an organisation of independent countries that has nothing but problems of their own.

The problems our Premier has is that he now faces the problems created by his party’s former government.

Inaccurate base

The CARICOM report is full of inaccuracies, some of which we suspect Ewing and his ministers furnished.

We must remember we are only an associate

member with serious financial problems, which are centred on the debts created by Ewing’s party and the expensive long term healthcare problems brought to us by Ewing and the PNP.

Paper tiger

CARICOM is a paper tiger and we are barely an associated member, the smallest of the small.

Ewing needs to work on what is important.

He has avoided the healthcare economic and treatment problems. He passed the problems off to Minister Amanda and now Minister Portia.

He needs to tell the country why he refuses to address these issues.

We are less than one year under this constitution and this Premier knows very well why the 2006 Constitution will not return until we are able to properly manage our own affairs as we did from 1995 to 2003.

 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

TCI to adopt climate change adaptation strategies THE TURKS and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) is seeking to include climate change adaptation strategies into the disaster management system of the Turks and Caicos Islands in a region-wide collaborative effort that is expected to prepare vulnerable Caribbean nations for the effects of climate change.

And as part of the climate change response, the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) in collaboration with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) hosted two days of consultation from July 24 to 25 on ‘Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation into Comprehensive Disaster Management Phase II (CCDM-II)’ and ‘Climate Smarting of the Country Work Programme (CS-CWP)’ in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

A number of Government officials were present at the very important two-day workshop on at the Disaster Management headquarters on Providenciales.

During the workshop, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), the Adventist

Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), Messenger Baptist Church, All Saints Baptist Church and the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, as stakeholder groups took advanced action in the area of climate change.

Director of the Department of Disaster and Emergency Management (DDME), Dr. Virginia Clerveaux, commenting on the renewed focus on climate change, said: “This two day workshop focuses on mainstreaming climate change adaptation into comprehensive disaster management and in ensuring that our country work programme is climate smart.

“Today [Wednesday] we participate in a workshop that focuses on one of the defining challenges of part time climate change.

“While it might be true that small island developing states such as the TCI might not be significantly contributing to global warming, we are certainly amongst the first that will suffer the impact of this phenomenon.

“If we continue with business as usual, heat rise could be 5.3 degrees Celsius with potentially disastrous implication in terms of extreme weather events, rising sea levels and

Officials get ready to sign the MOU

the huge economic and social cause that these can bring.

“Amidst concerns over global economic pressures, climate change has quite frankly slipped to the bed burner of policy priorities but the problem is not going away, in fact it is quite the opposite, the evidence of climate change due to human behaviour is quite literally undeniable and the evidence leads

to models and predictions which are becoming clearer about the extent of the impact that we are likely to experience.”

The Director noted that flood and drought will continue to become more common and storms more intense, as well as more rain and floods, heat waves and tidal surges.

With the knowledge gained from the workshop, officials are hoping

that the different Government sectors present can educate others on the impact and dangers, and safety measures can be put in place.

The consultation aimed to, among other things identify existing, alternative and viable options for disaster risk reduction and will examine the TCIG draft Country Work Plan which charts a course of action for 2013-2020.

It is also intended that the consultation will help the TCI to integrate climate change considerations into a draft climate smart CDM country plan.

Specifically the consultation focused on developing an awareness of climate change and climate change impacts at the national level including existing development challenges, vulnerabilities and future risks focusing on hydrometeorological hazards and events; identifying existing and alternative adaptation options for disaster risk reduction nationally sectorally and gaps in current capacities; and prioritising and sequence viable adaptation options into entry points and actions that build on the current comprehensive disaster management country work programme framework for disaster risk reduction.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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$55m operating surplus – 2012/13 fiscal performance review IN HIS presentation of the budget for financial year (FY) 2013/2014 before the House of the Assembly on Monday (July 22), Finance Minister Washington Misick, also presented a detailed analysis of the operating results for year ending March 2013.

“Operating surplus for the year ending March 31, 2013 was $55 million, which was $47.4 million or 52.9 per cent above the budget,” the minister reported.

“This operating surplus was an improvement of $84.3 million from the previous year’s deficit of $29.4 million.”

REVENUE He said recurrent revenues for the year totaled $171.4 million, compared to a budget of $187.6 million, a negative variance of $16.2million (8.6 per cent) and $7.8 million above the previous year’s receipts of $163.3 million.

Budgetary shortfalls were seen primarily in import duties ($3.4 million), accommodation tax ($2.9 million), stamp duty ($1.6 million), work permits ($3.2 million) and other revenues ($4.5 million).

Non-recurrent revenue was $45.4 million, which was $32.4 million or 249 per cent above the budget and $44.2 million ahead of last year’s results.

The Minister stated this was a direct result of the work of the Civil Recovery Team, in addition to FCO and EU grants.

Total overall revenues for FY2012/13 were $216.8 million, compared to the budget of $200.6 million, a positive variance of $16.2 million or 8 per cent and a significant increase of $51.9 million over the previous year’s results.

EXPENDITURE Total recurrent expenditure was $146.6 million, which Misick said compared favourably with the budget of $154.1 million, another positive variance of $7.6 million or 5 per cent below the budget.

He said: “The saving included $300,000 in staff costs, $3 million for operating expenses and $1.5 million in investments in interim administration’s milestones.”

The Minister also reported that non-recurrent expenditure was $22.6 million for the year, which was $3.3 million or 11 percent below budget and $17.9 million below the previous year.

Savings on historical liabilities accounted for most of the positive variance against the budget, as the Government continues the process of bringing all long outstanding creditors up to date, he added.

Total expenditure for the year was $169.2 million, which was $10.9 million or 6 per cent below the budget and $33.8 million below last

year’s result.

The minister stated that this was partly as a result of shortages in the delivery of service to the public.

SECTORAL SPENDING IN 2012/13 Human resources Staff costs accounted for 24 per cent of the total expenditure at around $56.9 million.

The previous year (2012/2011) accounted for 38 per cent of total surpluses, at $66.9 million.

The minister noted that this was due primarily to the voluntary redundancy programme and strict controls on recruitment.

He said: “This result was still $300,000 below budget even after the reinstatement of the 10 per cent pay cut that was imposed in 2010.”

Healthcare He added that the direct cost of providing healthcare service to the country was also a very significant expenditure last year and there is limited scope to reduce this expenditure in the new term.

Transfers to the National Health Insurance Board and hospital provisional charges totalled about $42.5 million for the year, compared to $44.8 million the previous year.

“The scope of the financial audit of InterHealth Canada (IHC) has been extended.

“We expect to receive the audit results imminently. A clinical audit is also being conducted,” he said.

Misick noted that the result of these two audits is expected to uncover suspected weaknesses in the system, including potential contractual breaches, incorrect accounting, over billing, and lack of cost control measures by IHC. Corrections to the system are expected to result in a reduction in TCIG subsidy.

Education According to the Finance Minister, his government demonstrated its commitment to educating the future generation during the last fiscal year, with the almost completed new six classroom facility at Helena J. Robinson High School and continued strategic investment in primary and tertiary education.

Misick stated that expenditure on scholarships and subvention to the Community College fell from a high of $13.6 million in 2009/10, to a mere $4.3 million in 2012.

“We can all admit that the system might have been abused in the past, but this level of investment is not sufficient to achieve our goal,” he said.

Subvention - statutory bodies Subvention to statutory bodies for the year was $6.4 million, compared to $8.7 million the previous year.

The Government continued

reforms initiated the preceding year, which resulted in the closure and transfer of the services previously provided by TCInvest, the Sports Commission, culture, library board and Radio Turks and Caicos to the central Government.

However, Misick stated that Government believes that the reinstatement of TCInvest in the appropriate form is needed to maximise direct foreign investment (DFI), and that if properly structured and managed, this can become a profit centre and will help to accelerate the process of project proposals and investment implementation.

SIPT and civil recovery Combined revenue from SIPT and civil recovery actions during the year amounted $30.2 million but the two also had operating cost totalling $14.0 million, he reported.

Operating revenue and costs are expected to reduce for the new financial year as the work of both SIPT and the Civil Recovery Team begins to wind down.

Capital contributions Government contributed $6.8 million from the Consolidated Fund to the Development Fund during fiscal 2012/13 to assist with the capital expenditure for the year, including the acquisition of the N.J.S. Francis Building.

Debt management Principal debt repayment for the year totalled $13.8 million, which was $5.4 million above the budget and included the early repayment of the

Scotia Revolving Credit Facility of $6 million.

The minister noted that this resulted in saving in interest cost for the year.

Total debt reduced from $229.4 million or about 30.7 per cent of GDP, in April 2012 to $214.9 million or 28.8 per cent of GDP at the end of March 2013.

He added that a working group has been established within the Ministry of Finance to review Government debt, and to explore options to manage the country’s debt obligation more efficiently to reduce the total annual debt service cost, including the contingent liability of the two hospitals, as well as to plan for the treatment of the residual debt balance in 2016 when the $170 million bond matures.

Sinking fund The sinking fund had a balance of $41.0 million due to the transfer of funds remaining in both the Consolidated and Development Fund at the end of the financial year, he reported.

Capital programme The full year’s receipt of $27.4 million exceeded the budget by $11.9 million, due primarily to the unbudgeted receipt of $7.5 million from the sale of the Provo Water Company’s shares and proceeds of $7 million from the sale of the West Caicos property.

Capital expenditure for the entire year was $15.3 million, which was $1.7 million above the budget.

These expenditures included, among others $4.4 for Providenciales Airport land acquisition; $2.7 million for NJS Francis Building acquisition; $1.6 million for North Caicos Deep Harbour land acquisition; $966,000 for repairs to the causeway bridge; $880,000 for a new block at the Helena J. Robinson High School; $830,000 for new RO plant and equipment; $522,000 for census preparation 2012; $225,000 for Carnival Infrastructure Projects and $136,000 for the South Caicos Community Centre.

ECONOMIC REVIEW The Minister stated that the TCI weathered the storm reasonably successfully, given the atmosphere of high levels of debt, rising unemployment, high import prices for energy and food and reduced tourist arrivals from North American and Europe in particular, being experienced by many other Caribbean countries.

Misick said: “The challenging global and regional conditions of which I speak continues to impact the TCI economy, and led to a significant shortfall in expected recurrent revenue last financial year…the sustainability of net surpluses is a good indication of a government's financial management, as it indicates the underlying balance between long-term government revenues and expenditure.

“The TCI has weathered the storm reasonably successfully.”

However, he stressed that in current times more must be done to raise the profile and promote balance growth so that all communities in the TCI benefit from a rebounding economy.

New case of counterfeit notes reported in TCI

BY DAISY HANDFIELD RESIDENTS and local businesses are still on high alert after a report of a new case of counterfeit notes allegedly floating around the islands.

On Tuesday the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) sent out a statement saying that two gas stations on Providenciales reported receiving two fake $100 dollar bills.

In April more than $4,000 in counterfeit notes were recovered by police officials within two weeks, after the culprits went on shopping sprees at a number of gas stations, supermarkets and other local businesses.

During that time, Assistant Superintendant in charge of the Financial Crime Unit for RTCIPF, Kenville Charles, told the Weekly

News that two Dominican nationals were on police bail for the suspicion of circulating these notes.

Now according to police officials, those suspects have still not been formally arrested but are assisting the police with their investigation.

There has still not been any word on whether or not these notes are similar to the ones recovered in previous months or if there are persons out there producing a different type of note.

Prior to this new case; Charles noted that one of their suspect countries of origin was Haiti.

“We can’t say exactly where it is coming from or that Haiti is the origin for the counterfeit notes that are circulating in the Turks and Caicos but, what we have noticed from past investigations that we

had that there has been some suspicious reasons to believe that some of the notes were actually coming from Haiti.

“I can’t say that they were printed in Haiti but, they were coming from Haiti to the TCI,” he said.

The Weekly News attempted to contact Inspector Nemours who is dealing with the matter but, he is said to be on temporary leave.

Businesses are asked to screen all currency notes in advance of payment.

If a counterfeit note is produced for payment of goods, notify the RTCIPF through its Criminal Investigation Department at 9414448 or Inspector Nemours in the Financial Investigations Unit at 941-4450.

The Weekly News will continue to follow up on the investigation.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Hanchell wins Supreme Court case IN a judgment handed down by the Supreme Court in favour of McAllister Hanchell, Judge RamsayHale found that the Attorney General failed to prove its case against the former government minister’s company, Akita Holdings.

Ramsay-Hale rejected the Crown’s case that Hanchell knew the land in dispute had been offered to him at an under-value and dismissed the claim for interest on the land.

In her judgment she outlined that she was willing to consider the Crown’s claim of unjust enrichment on the basis that it made a mistaken valuation of the land – even though this point was not argued by David Phillips, of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) – however, she stated that a mistake does not give rise to a claim of unjust enrichment against Akita Holdings.

The Plaintiff was seeking a $675,000 judgment against Akita, interest on this sum until the judgment and a declaration that the defendant is liable to account for the operating profits made by its use of the unpaid proportion of the land, namely 74 percent of those profits.

The relief sought in its alternative of claim of unjust enrichment was a $224,880 judgment and interest on this sum at annual rate of six percent per year.

In a press statement following the decision, Akita Holdings said it never considered that there was any merit in the Attorney General’s claim that it acquired the land on which it spent significant sums in developing its petroleum facilities, in breach of trust.

“The directors and shareholders of Akita Holdings are pleased that the claim against Akita has been dismissed by the Supreme Court after a full hearing which lasted three days.

“We look forward to continuing to serve the needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands population as a wholesale and retail provider of petroleum products.”

JUDGMENT The Judge found that there was no issue between the parties that Hanchell as a minister of government was a fiduciary or that if he had bought the land at an undervalue that it would amount to a breach of his duty to act in good faith and in the best interest of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Phillips in his case had set out that Hanchell had personally acquired valuations showing that the land had a greater value than what was quoted and subsequently sold to him, by the Crown. He stated that the defendant did nothing to draw this disparity to the attention of the government and that this failure was a breach of his fiduciary duties.

However, the allegations that he purchased the land at an under-value or transferred it to himself in breach of the Crown Land Policy were denied by the defendant.

Ramsay-Hale found that there is no doubt that, strictly construed,

McAllister Hanchell

Hanchell’s obligations under the Condition Purchase Lease (CPL) had not been performed when title to the initial land was transferred to Akita Holdings.

“While technically a breach of the CPLs and of Crown Land Policy, it is evident that both Planning and Mr. Hanchell approached the development not as referable to one parcel but as to all the land to which Mr. Hanchell's CPLs referred. Certainly there is no evidence to suggest that Planning was mistaken as to the fact that there was at the relevant time no development on the Initial Land.

“Nothing turns on this evidence, in my view, as notwithstanding the breach of the conditions in the CPLs, there was ultimately no breach of the Crown Land Policy as Akita thereafter made substantial investments in the land consistent with Mr. Hanchell's original obligations under the CPLs. In fact, the development could be said to exemplify the aim of the Crown Land Policy to increase the role of belongers in commercial land development.”

During the trial Phillips, through cross examination of Hanchell, established the bizarre nature of his writing - in his role as Minister of Natural Resources - a letter to himself in response to a request he made to purchase the freehold which he held under a CPL. Ramsay-Hale, in her judgment, while pointing to the questionable nature of this, stated that not much turns on this fact.

“The Crown isn't seeking to set aside the transfer on the ground that he acquired the land by fraud.

It is seeking restitution of the sum by which it claims the defendant was unjustly enriched when it acquired the land at an undervalue or alternatively, that sum which represents the value of the benefit received by it in consequence of Mr. Hanchell's breach of fiduciary duty.”

KNOWING RECEIPT During cross examination, Hanchell stated that he believed the value of the land as quoted to him by Alwell (only name given) of Construction Advisory Services, was a representation of the future value of the land after it had been commercially developed.

This was refuted by Phillips.

The Judge found that there is no doubt that the value of the land was greater than the value at which Hanchell obtained it, but the question for the Court is if it was satisfied on a balance of probability that Hanchell knew as a result of the valuation he had obtained that he was acquiring the land at an under-value.

She decided that in the absence of any comparable evidence justifying the valuator's opinion, there is nothing in the report prepared by Construction Advisory Services that would cause her to say that Hanchell knew the land was worth more than it was being offered to him by the Crown.

She said: “There is a measure of subjectivity involved in valuing property and it would appear that there is usually a disparity between the values ascribed to land by Government valuators and the valuations obtained from private valuators for commercial purposes.

The fact that Mr. Hanchell intended to and did rely on the valuation to obtain financing from the bank to fund the development of the land is not evidence in my respectful view that he believed that $500,000 was what the land was worth.”

There is nothing to suggest that he should have considered that the Government's valuators were less competent than Alwell or that he had reason to doubt the bona fides of the government valuation officers charged with advising government on the appropriate value of Crown land.

She added: “He said, and I accept there being no evidence to suggest otherwise, that he had no reason to know and did not know that the Government was using outdated valuations when it offered him the CPLs.” Even if he knew an out-of-date valuation had been used, RamsayHale said she could not, without more evidence, draw the inference that he knew a more recent valuation would have yielded a higher value.

She said on consideration of Hanchell’s testimony, the contents of Alwell’s report and the absence of information of comparable sale of land, she was not prepared to reject the former minister’s evidence that

he did not accept Alwell’s value as the true current market value and that he knew that the land offered to him was under-valued.

“Mr. Phillips QC submits that given the disparity in the values, Mr. Hanchell was at the very least put on inquiry that the value ascribed to the land in the CPLs might have been wrong. The submission recasts the role ascribed to Mr. Hanchell from breaching his own fiduciary duties to being in receipt of the land either knowing or being put on inquiry that Mr. Charles or the Minister of Natural Resources or both acted dishonestly and in breach of their own duties to the Government when recommending the disposal of the land to him at an undervalue.”

She that it is the recipient of the trust property who may have the requisite knowledge imputed to him if he were put on inquiry by the circumstances of the sale that a fiduciary was acting in breach of his duties.

However, this was not the Crown’s case, Ramsay-Hale said.

“The Crown's case is that Mr. Hanchell breached his fiduciary duty by taking a lease of Crown Land for a value which he knew, or ought to have known was wrong and that the defendant Akita received the property with the knowledge of his breach. For the reasons which I have already given, I am not prepared to make such a finding.”

She added that her finding with respect to Hanchell's knowledge of the under-value is not affected by the 2006 valuation in which Alwell expressed the opinion that the land's value had increased to $600,000.

The value he ascribes to the land is still not based on any comparable evidence of value.

“In my view, in the absence of any comparables or any evidence of sales indicating strong or rising demand for land in the area for commercial purposes which could account for the increase in value, the Court should be slow to dismiss Mr. Hanchell's evidence that he believed the increase in the value to be attributable to his own investment in the land.”

The Judge noted that even if Hanchell knew by the time of the second valuation that he was getting the land at an under-value, it is irrelevant to the Court, because

by June 2006 he had a concluded agreement with the Crown for the purchase of the freehold for the contractually agreed price.

“Mr. Phillips submits that there was no concluded agreement to transfer the freehold title to Mr. Hanchell until the Crown had consented to it and in the result; there was a continuing duty on Mr. Hanchell to bring the possibility of the land being sold at an under-value to the attention of the government. I cannot accept this submission.”

She stated that the Governor may have refused to transfer the land to Hanchell on the basis that he had not performed his obligations under the CPL, but would not have been

entitled to refuse to transfer the property on the ground that, two years after the bargain was struck the Crown had discovered that the land had been undervalued.

Nothing would turn on a finding that the 2006 valuation should have caused or did cause the Minister to know or believe that the land had been undervalued before the freehold title was transferred to him; as such the Judge found that the claim of knowing receipt failed.

UNJUST ENRICHMENT Judge Ramsay-Hale noted that insofar as any of the pleaded allegations involve assertions of breach of fiduciary duties they do not establish a claim for unjust enrichment.

She observed that as no question of illegality or of duress arose, the issue for resolution is whether on these facts there is any mistake on the part of the Crown which would lead to a finding that the defendant was unjustly enriched by the transfer of the land to it.

“The only relevant allegation is that the land was transferred to Hanchell's nominee by mistake as it was transferred for a sum determined by reference to an open market value which was 'erroneous'.

“Here I must note that mistake was not pleaded by the plaintiff at all but this gloss was put on the pleadings by Mr. Phillips and I am content to consider the claim for unjust enrichment on that basis.”

Notwithstanding that, she stated, with hindsight it is clear that the Government was mistaken about the value of the land, it was a mistake born of ignorance - the result of the failure of the then Minister of Natural Resources to request an up-to-date valuation of the Land - and cannot give rise a claim against Akita for unjust enrichment.

“As the Court in Farah observed at 156 at p.41, "No case, even in England, has treated ignorance as a reason for restitution.”

She added that there is no mistake rendering the transfer to the defendant for the price recommended to the government by the director of lands and surveys unjust.

THE CLAIM FOR INTEREST This stemmed from an abandoned claim for the non-payment of rent, however as the defendant had cleared the arrears at the beginning of the trial, the claim was limited to the recovery of interest due on the late payment of rent.

In her judgment the Judge accepted Ariel Misick’s (Defense Attorney) submission that the plaintiff had no contractual entitlement to interest and that while the Court has a discretion under section 19 of the CPO to award prejudgment interest on a claim for debt or damages, it is not obliged to do so and, in the circumstances where the arrears were settled out of Court, the Court should decline to do so.

“I accept this submission and dismiss the claim for interest.”(DI)

July 27 - August 2, 2013

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Register of MPs’ interests completed

THE INTEGRITY Commission has completed its ‘Register of Interests’ of the Members of Parliament (MPs).

Director of the Integrity Commission, Eugene Otuonye, commenting on the completed work, said: “The compilation and maintenance of the Register of Interests is an important constitutional function of the commission.

“It’s aim is to promote transparency, openness and accountability, and thus strengthen public trust and confidence in the parliamentary and democratic process.

“It also provides the Hon. Members with a measure of protection against unwarranted criticism of perceived or actual conflicts between a member’s private interests and his or her public duty.”

Otuonye commended MPs for their “exemplary cooperation and support” in the

compilation and production of this Register of Interests.”

Under section 25 of the Integrity Commission Ordinance 2008 as amended (the Ordinance), all persons in public life (including Members of the House of Assembly) are required to file with the Integrity Commission (the Commission) declarations of their incomes, assets and liabilities and those of their spouses and dependent children once every two years on or before the June 30 of the year in which filing is required.

This is otherwise referred to as the ‘Section 25 Declaration’, and it is strictly confidential.

In addition to filing the Section 25 Declaration, Members of the House of Assembly are further required by the Constitution and the ordinance, to file with the commission, once every year,

Statements of Registrable Interests of themselves and those of their spouses and dependent children.

The Statements of Registrable Interests contain the following information relating to the member, his or her spouse and children: particulars of any directorship held in any company or other corporate body; particulars of any contract(s) with Government; the name of any company (s) of which he or she is an investor; a concise description of any trust to which he or she is a beneficiary or trustee; any beneficial interest held in land; particulars of any political, trade or professional association to which he or she belongs; particulars relating to sources of income; and any other substantial interest whether of a pecuniary nature or not which may raise a material conflict of interest between his private interests and his public

duty.

The commission has advised that the register containing the Statements of Registrable Interests has been sent to the Speaker of the House, Robert Hall, and to Governor Ric Todd.

The Register of Interests will be available for public inspection at every sitting of the House of Assembly in Grand Turk.

It will also be available for inspection at the Offices of the Integrity Commission in Grand Turk from8am to 4.30pm from Mondays to Thursday and 8am to 4pm on Fridays starting on Monday July 22.

It is also expected to be available at other venues including the District Commissioner’s Offices in the family islands.

Locations and times for public inspection at these proposed venues, according to the commission, will be announced later.

Budget 2013/2014 passes the House continued from 

7

insurance tax will be levied on the freight and insurance component of imports at a flat rate of 15 per cent, effective as of July 8, 2013.

The revenue expected from this new tax is about $6.5 million per annum. However, Government projects about $4.7 million for the year.

EXPENDITURE PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS Government proposed expenditure estimate for this financial year is a total of $199.8 million, compared to total expenditure of $184.5 million, an overall increase of $15.3 million or about eight per cent.

The Minister reported that the recurrent expenditure estimates of $165.8 million, compared to $146.6 million for the previous year is due largely to 10 per cent pay reinstatement.

Human resources He added that personnel costs remain the largest item of expenditure for the Government.

“The cost adjustment of 10 per cent is a major contributing factor to the changes in recurrent expenditures over the budget period.

“In addition $2.2 million is provided for the recruitment of additional staff in the new financial year.”

According to Misick, the payand-grade in the civil service is currently being assessed; however, Government will not be able to implement the recommendations until there is sufficient sustainable revenue to cover the cost.

Healthcare Transfer to the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), and payments for hospital charges are budgeted at $42.2 million this year, a slight reduction from $42.5 million last year.

Misick noted that this amount is significantly above the original forecast of the interim administration but his Government will be taking steps to ensure that subvention to NHIB is kept under tight control.

To resolve this problem, the Minister stated that Government will be working closely with NHIB during the financial year to help to improve their financial position and also to help in managing all costs in the healthcare sector more effectively.

One of the initiatives being pursued as a cost saving measure is the merger of the collection departments of NHIB and National Insurance Board (NIB).

Education The budgetary allocation to the education ministry this year is $25.5 million, including $2.7 million for continuing student scholarships, $1.7 million for the TCI Community College and $4.7 million for capital expenditure.

Misick stated Government will continue to work with this ministry to strengthen the management of financial and human resources among all of their departments and statutory bodies.

Border control and employment Total budget allocation for the ministry is $6.4 million, including $700,000 for capital expenditure.

Misick said the allocation provides for the construction of a new immigration detention centre, completion of the second phase of radar monitoring cabin.

It also provides for hiring new staff members, including 18 new assistant immigration officers, which will be flexibly deployed across the various units of Border Control and Enforcement to enable the department to proactively address their responsibilities under the Immigration Ordinance.

Another initiative this year will be the introduction of new

immigration and employment laws that will enable enforcement officers and policy implementers to better respond to modern day realities, he added.

“To improve customer service delivery while simultaneously balancing the mandate to ensure compliance, reduce risks and challenge abuse, a one stop shop has being created that will significantly enhance the overall service delivery.”

Infrastructure Government will provide over $2.5 million from the Consolidated Fund for repairs and maintenance of the country’s vital infrastructure.

The Minister noted that while this amount may not be as large as they would like, it is the first step in gradually increasing the resources to adequately maintain infrastructure.

Debt management At the close of fiscal 2012/13, overall outstanding public debt stood at $214.9 million or about 28.8 per cent of GDP. “When we factor in the sinking fund balance of $43 million (balance to date), the real Debt-to-GDP ratio in the TCI is about 23 per cent.”

The Minister added that due to the fiscal and strategic policies, GDP growth is estimated at 3.5 per cent for 2013, a trajectory which is expected to continue in future years.

“What is more interesting, is that when one views the current debt repayment trend; the forecasted build up in the sinking fund; and the significant reduction in the country’s debt that will occur when the existing $170 million bond is repaid in 2016; all of these factors will result in TCI’s Debt-to-GDP ratio being about 14 per cent by the end of fiscal 2016, and estimated at 7 per cent by the end of 2018/19.”

He added that this positive outlook should provide the people of the TCI with hope of a better tomorrow.

Capital programme Due to current expenditure constraint, Misick said the scope for significant increases in capital expenditure will be limited until the TCI has repaid and refinanced the $170 million bond in 2016.

Total capital expenditure from all sources is forecasted at $19.1 million, compared to actual expenditure of $15.3 million for last year, an increase of 25 per cent.

The major projects to be undertaken this year include a new block at the OnaGlinton Primary School of $2.1 million; continued work on the causeway bridge at $1.5 million; complete and furnish new block the HJR High School at a cost of $1.2 million; new vehicles for the police at $815,000 and completion of the new RO plant at Grand Turk priced at $668,000.

Misick pointed out that as stated in the PNP’s manifesto its priorities are jobs, education and healthcare, all of which are dependent on achieving economic growth.

“Job creation and the generation of increased public revenues will also depend very much on policies that support good governance, including good financial governance, sound economic management and improving the climate for investment,” he said.

The Minister also went on the record lending his broad support to the passage of legislation, implemented under the interim administration, to strengthen TCIG public financial management and the safeguarding of Government assets.

However; he stated that his Government takes issue with some aspects of the Procurement Ordinance and the new Crown Land Ordinance and that it intends to engage colleagues on the opposition to make “the common sense amendments to promote efficiency”.

Those concerns, he added, are that some of the provisions and processes have the potential to create

bottlenecks and a drag on economic growth, restricting TCI’s ability to compete.

“This is especially so, considering that our economy is completely driven by tourism, and the economic fortunes or misfortunes of the US, Canada and the European Union (EU), which are likely to continue to dominate the tourism, financial services and other investment and trade interests of this the Turks and Caicos Islands,” Misick said.

Meanwhile, the Minister also noted that a new investment policy is under review by Government.

The specific objectives of the policy include attracting longterm growth oriented investment aimed at creating local jobs; proactively encouraging appropriate investment into the lesserdeveloped family islands; proactively attracting investment into new industries to broaden the economic base; operate a regulated system of investment incentives that is clear, transparent and relatively easy to monitor for compliance and aftercare; reduce the cost of doing business; and lower the barriers to entry into business except for high risk activities.

He noted that as part of Government’s efforts to accelerate the rate of direct foreign investment, it remains committed to the establishment of a one stop investment and promotional entity that will promote and facilitate investment generally, but more particularly in the main industries of tourism and financial services.

He added that with the creation of this new body, changes are proposed to a number of legislation including the Encouragement of Development Ordinance.

The Finance Minister made it clear that this year’s budget signals a paradigm shift in his Government’s approach to governance, and the management of scarce resources.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Opposition commits to push for Numerous reports Freedom of Information law of theft from

BY VANESSA NARINE FREEDOM of information is guaranteed according to section 129 of the new 2011 Constitution.

Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, in Parliament on Monday (July 22) put the current administration “on notice” that there would be a push for freedom of information legislation in upcoming sittings of the House of Assembly.

She said: “This is a crucial provision that was fought hard for in the Constitution consultation.”

According to her, such legislation will go a long way to preventing undemocratic processes.

Cartwright-Robinson pointed out that the UK has committed to a certain level of transparency and the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands have a legitimate expectation for such standards.

“The people are entitled to know…the freedom of information legislation will allow us to maintain our democratic rights,” she said.

The Opposition Leader maintained that members of her side are committed to seeing the legislation come into force.

The Constitution says: “An ordinance shall provide for a right of access to information held by public authorities, for the conditions for the exercise of that right, and for restrictions and exceptions to that right in the interests of international relations, the security of the Islands or the United Kingdom, public safety, public order, public morality or the rights or interests of individuals.”

The constitution became effective on October 15, 2012.

Prior to the enforcement of this legislative framework, current Finance Minister and former Chief Minister, Mr. Washington

Misick, told the Weekly News that the Freedom of Information Ordinance will be a priority of a PNP administration.

Developing countries across the Caribbean have recognised the role of a free media in a democracy.

In the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda (2004), Belize (1994), Jamaica (2002), and Trinidad and Tobago (1999) have passed access legislation and several countries including the discussing their own draft legislation.

Freedom of Information laws mainly have an overall objective of mitigating corruption and provide the general public with the ability to request documents and other materials held by all government agencies and other agencies receiving public funds.

The exemptions identified under the laws are usually based on ensuring national security.

Dismissals at RBC Bahamas – New head for TCI branch WHILE recent investigations launched by Royal Bank of Canada into the internal affairs of the TCI branch led to the replacement of Toure Holder, The Bahamas Press (BP) has reported of possible dismissals of several workers in that country.

According to a Thursday, July 25, report from BP more than 70 workers may be fired from the Bahamian branch.

The news site reported that longserving Bahamian employees with years of service to RBC are losing their jobs.

However, when contacted by this publication, referrals were made to the public relations and communications manager, who was still incommunicado up to press time.

A caption under a photograph of Nathaniel Beneby, vice president and country head of RBC Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, on the site read: “Bank boss now has trouble on his hands. Nathaniel Beneby must now cushion major TCI crisis and at the same time is watching loyal Bahamian workers get sacked by the Trinidadians...”

Information out in the Bahamas earlier this month reported on the TCI branch investigation and that branch manager Toure Holder was hauled in for questioning by senior officials of the head office in the Bahamas.

When the Weekly News enquired after the whereabouts of Holder at the local branch, we were told that

vehicles in Provo POLICE are urging motorists in Providenciales to be vigilant after 15 thefts from parked motor vehicles were reported last week.

On two occasions a vehicle battery was stolen from motor vehicles.

A significant amount of cash, expensive electronic items, jewellery, identification cards and passports were also taken from motor vehicles.

A car was also reported stolen from Five Cays, however it was recovered later that same day along Airport Road.

Special Constable and Public Relations Officer, Audley Astwood, said: "I would urge

motorists to not leave valuables within their vehicles and where possible to park their vehicles in a well-lit area, and preferably avoid isolated locations.

“The use of alarms, locking fuel caps and other security devices should be used at all times."

Members of the public should report any suspicious behaviour or people who are in close proximity to a parked vehicle to the Chalk Sound Police Station at 941-8082.

Alternatively, if they wish to remain anonymous they can call the charity Crimestoppers on 1-800-TIPS.

Man arrested for burglary POLICE have arrested a 22-year-old man from Kew Town for the offence of burglary.

His name has not been released as he has not yet been charged.

The arrest comes as police continue their investigations of a residential burglary in Providenciales, which was reported on Saturday, July 20.

Police determined that the burglary occurred between 2.15am

and 2.30am on the day in which the report was made.

The occupant of the home returned home to discover that someone had entered her home and vandalised one of the rooms.

Missing is one black handbag containing a sum of cash and three ladies watches.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Malicious damage of property being investigated A REPORT on Monday (July 22) of malicious damage to property and also theft from a motor vehicle in Five Cays is being investigated by police.

The right rear side door quarter glass was broken and missing is an Toure Holder

Holder “is no longer with us”.

Sanfra Foster, from the Bahamas office, is now heading the branch, this publication learned. However there was no indication whether this posting was a temporary one or not.

Whether Holder is on suspension or has been dismissed, was not said, instead we were referred to PR manager, Jan Knowles for further information.

She was unavailable for comment, despite repeated calls to and messages left at her contact number in the Bahamas.

Holder was appointed to the post in July of 2010 as country manager, amid criticism from some quarters that he was not deserving of the post.

“Toure has shown tremendous leadership within RBC and brings exceptional experience and banking

expertise to this role,” Nathaniel Beneby, vice president and country head of RBC Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, was quoted as saying at the time.

Meanwhile, BP reported that a July 3 press statement from Knowles stated that RBC will do all it can to safeguard its bank, client’s interest and employee rights.

“RBC has a century long history of good governance and commitment to the Caribbean region.

“We value our operations in the Turks and Caicos Islands and we have a zero tolerance policy for actions that compromise our integrity as a bank.

“As this situation is under investigation we are not able to comment further,” Knowles reportedly said. (DI)

Apple iPod and a Sony car stereo.

According to the police, the incident occurred between 11pm on Sunday (July 21) and 6.25am on Monday.

Investigations into this incident are ongoing.

Law enforcers undergo forensic training THE OFFICE of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) conducted a one day workshop on Forensic DNA Evidence last Friday (July 19).

Working together with a view to improving TCI’s criminal justice system, the effort joined 25 members of RTCIPF CID, Scenes of Crime and General Duty Officers and supervisors.

All available Public Prosecutors from both Grand Turk and Providenciales were in attendance.

Information sharing included crime scene gathering of DNA

evidence, significance of findings, and presentation of DNA evidence in court.

The Director of Public Prosecution, JoAnn Meloche, made a presentation on the TCI laws and admissibility issues regarding DNA evidence.

She said: “I was very impressed with the level of engagement and thank all participants for an interesting exchange of knowledge and ideas. It was a worthwhile experience.”

The session was facilitated by DNA Labs International’s Allison Nunes and Tiffany Roy.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Joseph Lewis fined $3,000 for cannabis possession TWENTY-seven-year-old Joseph Lewis pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of a controlled drug, namely cannabis, on Wednesday (July 24).

He appeared before resident Magistrate Jolyn Hatmin in Providenciales Magistrate’s Court number two.

The guilty plea by Lewis comes as a result of an incident, which occurred on Saturday, July 13, in Blue Hills, Providenciales.

Tactical unit officers conducted a stop and search on a vehicle driven by

Lewis and during that search, 16 grams of suspected cannabis were found.

Lewis was subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug namely cannabis and the suspected cannabis was seized.

Later that same day, he was formally charged and released on $1,000 bail.

As a result of the guilty plea entered by Lewis, he was fined $3,000 to be paid by Tuesday, September 24, or ninety days imprisonment.

The magistrate ordered that the 16 grams of cannabis be destroyed.

Business burglarised A COMMERCIAL burglary was reported on Tuesday (July 23) at a property on Millennium Highway in Blue Hills,.

Police have determined that the burglary occurred between 10.30pm Monday (July 22) and 6.30am on the day the report was made.

Reports, according to the police, are that a shop employee discovered

that an intruder had entered to the business place. He also discovered a number of items missing.

The owner and employee are currently compiling an inventory list for police, to determine the exact number of items that were stolen.

The Criminal Investigation Department is carrying out further investigations into this incident.

Man, 32, on $100,000 bail after alleged theft THEFT charges have been laid against an undisclosed 32-yearold male from Providenciales after appearing in Providenciales Magistrates Court on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner.

The charge is said to be related to an incident which took place between

April 2013 and January 2013, which involved the TCI Airport Authority at the Providenciales International Airport.

He is currently out on a $100,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in the Grand Turk Supreme Court on November 6 at 9am for a sufficiency hearing.

Residential burglaries being investigated THE ROYAL Turks and Caicos Islands Police is also investigating a residential burglary in Providenciales, which was reported on Tuesday (July 23).

It has been determined according to police that the burglary occurred while the occupants of the home were upstairs on the second floor of the home.

An adult was alerted to the presence of two unidentified males inside the home on the ground floor.

The two suspects escaped without being apprehended.

Several rooms on the ground floor were vandalised and missing are a sum of cash, a number of credit cards, cell phones, Apple I-pads and other items yet to be

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determined. Police officers were dispatched and searched the area for suspicious persons but were unable to locate the two intruders.

Another incident was reported on Tuesday (July 23) at a residence in Providenciales.

Police have determined that the burglary occurred between 6.30am and 5.30pm on the day the incident was reported.

The occupant of the home returned home to discover a bedroom window broken and that room was partially vandalised.

Reports are that nothing appeared to be stolen, but the occupant is compiling a personal inventory list for police.

The Criminal Investigation Department is carrying out further investigations into this incident.

Judge’s preservation order questioned in Conch Farm case FRICTION continued to permeate the atmosphere of Judge Margaret Ramsay-Hale’s court as the case between the current and former operators of Trade Wind Industries’ (TWI) Caicos Conch Farm was heard again over the past week.

Following an order by the jurist in June for the seizure of documents - of which 11 boxes were retrieved from former chief executive officer, Chuck Hesse’s residence - Peter McKnight, attorney of note for the defendant, raised his displeasure with said order on Tuesday (July 23).

Counsel took exception to the directive which was issued for the preservation of documents.

McKnight raised the point that not all (if any) of the documents related to TWI and its operations and that the court could not make an order for the preservation of personal documents.

Ramsay-Hale explained that the order was for the preservation of all documents, to which McKnight maintained he had a problem.

The lawyer repeatedly raised his concerns with the directive, forcing a visibly exasperated judge to indicate to him that he can appeal it if he so wishes, to which he promptly responded that he will.

She stated that she did not believe the defendant would have destroyed 25 years of documents of the company, but that she did not know this for a fact.

She said she perceived a risk because of the animosity, hence the order.

She added that the preservation of the documents is important as it is the company which says it needs the information to go forward, not John Hartley or Richard Berke.

McKnight also queried what method would be adopted to determine which document in the judge’s possession relates to the company and which is personal, and whether the plaintiff would have access to the documents.

Ramsay-Hale noted that the documents were in her possession and that she would employ a method she deemed appropriate as she is not interested in the personal affairs of the defendant.

She also pointed out that the inspection was not intended to be a forensic one.

She noted that while Monique Allan – representing the plaintiff provided an inspection order, it was very narrow.

She stated that her order was not for the benefit of the plaintiff.

Another bone of contention between McKnight and Allan, that was again raised and which fed the atmosphere of frustration in the court, was that of the term ‘books of accounts’ being ascribed to all documents that had any bearing on the affairs of the company.

During the first hearing this issue was addressed and subsequently resolved with the parties agreeing to the term, however McKnight lodged his objection to this during the last appearance.

The judge consequently adjusted the term as documents relating to the operations of TWI. The lawyer further questioned why the matter was being heard in public and not in a private hearing as it related only to the two parties.

He stated that it is a matter which should be settled.

This prompted the judge to point out that the hostility in the back row (where the parties were seated) has infected the front row (where the lawyers sit).

She agreed with the defence that it was a matter that should be settled, but that there was an obvious breakdown in the relationship between the parties which prevents this.

She said it was very distressing for the court to come to a resolution

of the matter.

“This should have been resolved, Hesse remains a shareholder of the company,” she said.

Meanwhile, after just about an hour of arguments on the aforementioned issues, current CEO, Richard Berke continued his testimony before her ladyship.

During cross examination by Mcknight, Berke expounded on the contentious relationship between the parties.

McKnight made a point through his questioning that Berke had seen documents relating to the company when Hesse sent him documents when he was applying for financing for the company, prior to his dismissal.

But this line of questioning was halted by the judge when the lawyer tried to establish that Hesse was handed the documents and as such his claim that he did not have documents was not completely accurate.

The trial continues on July 30 when Hesse is expected to testify.

Drexwell Seymour- General Manager Lime TCI

Drexwell Seymour resigns from LIME TCI

BY DAISY HANDFIELD THE LONGEST serving general manager for Cable and Wireless, now known as LIME, announced his resignation on Monday.

Seymour has been in the company for over 13 years, starting February 1, 1999, as the management accountant and then a year and a half later becoming the vice president of finance.

On January1, 2006, he became the first local to become general manager of LIME. He occupied this position of general manager for seven years and seven months.

According to a press release

issued by LIME, the former GM will leave the business for other pursuits.

He said: “I would like to thank staff members for their support during my time at LIME. “I wish LIME the best and I know that the company will continue to be the leading telecommunications company in the TCI.” In the meantime, Lacal Palmer will be the acting general manager until a replacement is recruited.

The Weekly News attempted to get a comment from Drexwell Seymour but, according to officials from LIME he is currently off island on vacation.

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July 27 - August 2, 2013

PDM leader clarifies equal pay statements

LEADER of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, cleared the air on the statements made during the recent Budget debate on the disparity of pay between the local and expatriate workers who head Government departments.

She said: “Much to our dismay and surprise, long after two members of the Opposition had spoken to the recent trend in the civil service where there are great disparities in pay between expatriate heads and local qualified heads of departments, the Attorney General rose on a point of order.

“Not during the relevant contributions of these members but hours, and in one case days after comments were made.”

According to her, as such, the party believes it prudent to explain its remarks as there are likely to be new audiences who would have only heard the Attorney General and not the accused members’ contribution.

She said: “The PDM party has since 2005 been calling for equal pay in these Islands and this does not only and should not only be adhered to by the private sector.

“This is nothing new for this Opposition party to advance and it will always be our fight until there is a meaningful change in this area.”

Cartwright-Robinson said: “Nonetheless, the Attorney General yesterday in the House of Assembly accused members of the Opposition of breaching sections of the Code of Conduct specifically s 3, 7 and 11 and s16(3) of the Constitution.”

She stated that when forced on a point of order in accordance to the House’s Standing Orders, he identified s 28(10) which says that “Reference may not be made in debate to the character or conduct of any person except in his official or public capacity.”

The party leader stated that there were no attacks on anyone’s personal character or conduct.

“The Attorney General correctly said that they have just simply taken up an employment offer from the Government and we agree wholeheartedly.

“These employees did not set their terms of employment and so are not to be blamed for salary disparities and as such ought not be drawn into a criticism levied at the system.

“We believe that the action of the Attorney General has unfortunately done this,” she said.

According to her, the Opposition was accused of breaching the Code of Conduct and no concern was raised on this as the Attorney General was present in the House of Assembly when the Premier during the last meeting said that the House is not managed by the Code of Conduct.

She expressed her and her party’s shock that the AG did not advise the Premier as the Government’s adviser, of the relevance of the code in the House of Assembly when the Opposition raised a point on a possible breach of the said same code.

In addition he, the Attorney General, now sought to identify

Opposition Leader Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

irrelevant sections of the very same code and seek to cite breaches made by the Opposition.

The Opposition Leader said her

party was also accused of breaching the Constitution which states: “Discriminatory means affording different treatment to different persons attributable wholly or mainly to their respective descriptions such as by race, national or social origin, political or other opinion, colour, religion, language, creed, association with a national minority, property, sex, sexual orientation, birth or other status whereby persons of one such description are subjected to disabilities or restrictions to which persons of another such description are not made subject or are accorded privileges or advantages which are not accorded to persons of another such description.”

She reiterated that there were no criticisms levied against any expatriate worker in the civil service and that the Attorney General is misguided in his thoughts and

misleading in his comments.

The Opposition Leader added that the PDM is on the record of representing expatriate workers in the civil service as well as in the private sector.

She said: “In December 2005, the Leader of the Opposition while on the forum presented a 45 minute presentation which highlighted the continuing need of the importation of expatriate workers.

“The Opposition is not discriminating and will never engage in discriminating against those who come to our shores to help to build our country.

“What we find interesting is that we believe that it is the people of these islands and the Turks and Caicos Islanders in the civil service who are being discriminated against and we make no apologies for representing our people in the area of the salary disparities.”

Budget format is flawed, Phillips

IN HIS contribution to the 2013/2014 Budget debates, Governor’s Appointed Member, John Phillips, stated that departments are not working hard enough to produce “real numbers”, a comment made after his review of actual numbers for 2012/ 2013 and projections for the new financial year.

According to him the use of the current budget methods are flawed.

Phillips stated that budgets

are roadmaps and the way the document is compiled makes analysis difficult.

He recommended that a panel take a look at format and style and produce more clear and concise instructions to create a useful document.

The MP reiterated that there is a lack of targeting in the document.

He added that with some pressure from Ministers there can

be savings that can be put to other need areas.

“I look at simple things like power and utilities and I can guarantee you that with a little bit of pressure from Ministers we can save at least 15 per cent of that cost… we see possible savings in many other areas…we have so many methods to use as alternatives to improve cost savings,” Phillips said. (VANESSA NARINE)

La Parfumerie summer giveaways off to a sweet start LA PARFUMERIE, Providenciales’ new and only perfume store, opened its doors less than one month ago but has managed to create quite a buzz with its elegant store and fabulous weekly summer giveaways.

Last Friday, July 19, the first weekly contest ended and a lucky lady, Margot Marsh, was the delighted winner of the chic Marc Jacobs Dot fragrance.

She and a multitude of other La Parfumerie fans entered online through an online contest hosted on Facebook.

Those who made purchases at the store in Grace Bay were also eligible for a chance to win the giveaway and those who did both, doubled their chances.

Weekly contests are continuing with loads of fantastic prizes to be won by residents of the TCI. This Friday the store will be giving away a gift basket full of amazing goodies including scents like Daisy Sunshine, Balenciaga

Fbrabotanica and Lacoste Touch of Pink. There are also a clutch purse, makeup bags, wallet and scarf from top designer brands.

Because so many have been entering the competition, La Parfumerie teamed up with The Body Show to award a second prize this week.

Another fan or customer will win two tickets to TCI’s ultimate physique competition, The Body Show: Miss Body Beautiful and Mr. Best Body Pageant on Saturday, July 27, at Brayton Hall in Providenciales.

The store, which is Goldsmith’s perfume division, has the widest selection of fragrances at the best prices on island.

The store’s manager said that the business wants to keep TCI residents up to date with all the latest and most glamorous fragrances and will offer top quality products at affordable prices so residents and tourists can make La Parfumerie their one stop shop for all their perfume needs.

La Parfumerie is also happy to introduce weekly fragrance

The first winner of the Weekly Summer Giveaways collects her prize from store employees

giveaways, giving fans and customers a taste of what the store has to offer and allowing them to join in the fun of winning fabulous scents.

Located in the Regent Village, Grace Bay between Goldsmith and Garam Masala, the store has the widest variety of fragrances on island - designer brands, celebrity scents and limited edition exclusive

scents.

Also offered are trendy sunglasses and a gorgeous collection of OPI nail polishes and products that have already made a hit with women.

The manager also revealed that there will be many new and exciting products before the holidays that will have everyone going crazy.

For more information or for a chance to be a part of the excitement

and weekly giveaways join La Pafumerie TCI’s facebook page at www.facebook.com/ LaParfumerieTCI and twitter page at www.twitter.com/ LaParfumerieTCI. The pages highlight latest contests, store promotions and free giveaways as well as keep fans informed on the most seductive scents available on island.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

14

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Fixing our education system Dear Editor, If we want to fix education in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we need to start at the beginning.

As I listen to people talk, it seems that everyone has an opinion about what is wrong with our educational programme today, including its teachers and students.

However, very few have solutions that are best designed to meet the needs of the student population.

The current focus of education is on results, particularly test results.

The powers that be have deemed it the sole measurement for students' success and when the scores don't

add up, the finger of blame is pointed squarely at teachers.

Talking with teachers over the years and seeing the pendulum swing back and forth many times I have observed what works and what does harm to young students and in my experience there are five necessary steps to success.

Here in the Turks and Caicos Islands we have a tendency to start out late.

Let’s start young, really young.

Research has shown that early education is a fundamental factor to children's school success and Turks and Caicos Islands Government

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.

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

must fund it adequately.

This will give more or all our children a chance to learn the curriculum, develop early learning skills and discover and explore the world of school.

Visiting some of the public schools occasionally, the classroom size needs to be addressed.

Smaller class size has a profound impact on both classroom dynamics and the amount of attention a teacher can give to students.

By reducing class size in kindergarten to third grade to 20 or less, and grades four to 12 to 25 or less we will see a dramatic improvement.

We cannot compare public and private schools until the class size issue has been resolved and the scales are even.

Treat Teachers in public schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands as professionals.

Respect the years of training, education and experience our local and expat teachers have in the field of education and pay them accordingly ($2,200 monthly?

Really!)

A student's test score is not the sole indicator of a teacher's worth and teachers are not motivated to further their education solely for the joy of learning.

In our culture here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, most professionals are compensated for their expertise and given opportunities to further their knowledge in their professional field.

Teachers have an extremely important job and huge responsibilities and they should be respected, taken seriously and able to afford the cost of living in this country where they teach and reside.

Hold parents accountable. I will type that again, Hold Parents Accountable.

Parents must be held responsible for meeting their children’s basic needs and supporting their children in their educational path.

We need to teach those who do not know how to become better parents in order to provide a supportive home environment that complements the educational programme.

Parenting is a life-long responsibility and providing education and training for parents can have a positive impact on our students.

Fund education.

Year after year both governments in my opinion play lip service to education.

Our priority for a better Turks and Caicos must be education because our students (our children) are our country's future wage earners and tax payers.

By funding education we are insuring our own future.

We need to establish a permanent source of government funding for

Motown and TCI COMMENTARY

MOTOWN or Motor Town, Detroit, Michigan, which previously was the economic engine of the economy of the USA has now filed bankruptcy.

In my youth we enjoyed all the products of Motown.

From the sturdy US automobiles that became the standard of the world to the rhythm and blues hits coming from Motown studios we loved them all. Initially we thought this would go on forever.

Nothing is forever and soon the frightening signals emerged that predicted what has now happened.

Round after round of raises and increasing benefits forecast a time when the American car would not be affordable.

In the end it is now obvious

By David Tapfer this was not the cause but the effect of private and public workers who wanted more for less.

The quality of the cars went down and the government put their own squeeze play in place with the cafe standards and layers of suspect safety standards and gross over regulation.

GM went bankrupt first and Obama used taxpayer funds to bail them out.

SPACE IS LIMITED!

The chapter 11 bankruptcy,(reorganization) would have done a similar job.

However, Obama wanted electric cars, hence the Chevy Volt.

Detroit has lost 60 per cent of its population and is 16 billion in debt. Ten billion is money owed to government employees pensions.

The good news is R&B was replaced by Lionel Richie and Whitney Houston. I still miss the Platters, the Supremes and now Whitney.

The USA Federal government has signaled they will not bail Detroit out. Reason; there are more cities on the brink of collapse, too much government and government spending. Four cities in California have already bit the dust. Federal debt itself is tremendous and climbing minute by minute.

TCI is in the same state of affairs.

By 2009 we were bankrupt and in my opinion this will not change.

We have been obligated to pay 40 per cent of our Government’s income for Ewing-care. We have a hospital mortgage that does not represent value for dollars. Debt is everywhere and we still owe over $150m for paving and jet planes.

Britain will not bail us out, because we choose the same party to run the government they cannot even ask for a bail out.

Pension problems are causing Detroit’s problems and the use of our NIB pension funds to finance and attempt a save of the TCI Bank showed up the mismanagement and favoritism that took the bank down.

Our finance minister is talking about manufacturing.

our public schools.

Funding should include the arts, sports and physical education, and trade skills as well as the academic programme.

Provide support.

Financial and personal support is needed to educate special needs students, lower class ratio and size, and to support the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of all students.

Schools need full-time nurses, psychologists, counsellors and support staff to allow equal access to education and academic success for all students.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government, our Government and its representatives must own these suggestions.

Let it be the Bible for education.

Form working committees on each island comprising of people who will dedicate time and energy to developing a funding method that begins with our youngest students.

Limit class size, educate parents, properly compensate educators and provide the support needed for all students including those with special needs.

Only by providing this, will our educational system have a chance to be fixed and our students a chance to succeed.

Sincerely, Benneth Williams, Providenciales

How can a manufacturer import raw materials with the charges of Provo Stevedores, the high duty, six per cent service charge and now an additional 15 per cent charge on freight and insurance which had already hit the ceiling. Electricity under our Canadian monopoly costs 500 % of what is available in Florida.

There has been no development for 10 years and expenses now far outweigh economic growth.

Widespread unemployment was signaled by Chinese workers filling the construction jobs on the hospitals and West Caicos.

While depopulation cost Detroit 60 per cent of its population, Robert, Jeffrey and now Don-Hue cost Middle Caicos to lose a higher percentage.

The exodus of Middle and North Caicos continues. Since there are slim opportunities in Provo, it is off to the USA and the Bahamas.

The new taxes will not save TCI only doom it.

One wonders what will be left.

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

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Tourists robbed in Kingston POLICE are investigating a theft, which was reported on Wednesday (July 24), which involved tourists.

The two tourists told officers that they were driving in Kingston, the Bight, when a group of men approached them in a green jeep.

One of the persons in the jeep

grabbed the female tourist’s handbag and an iPhone before speeding away.

Officers were dispatched to the scene and a search was made for the suspects but no one fitting the description given was located.

Investigation into this incident is ongoing.

More thefts from vehicles reported POLICE, last week, warned vehicle owners to be cautious when parking their vehicles, due to increased reports involving malicious damage of the vehicles and theft of items inside.

This week the reports continued.

A woman told police on Wednesday (July 24) that at about 3pm she left the parking lot of her workplace in the Lower Bight and when she returned to her vehicle at 11pm she discovered that her vehicle’s driver’s side glass was broken.

Missing was her black handbag, which contained her debit card, credit card and NHIP card.

Another similar incident is under investigation At approximately 10.11pm on Thursday (July 25), a woman told officers that she secured her vehicle at approximately 9.10pm in the vicinity of the Kids Park, in The

Bight, and when she returned to her vehicle later that same night at 10.09pm, she discovered that her vehicle’s front passenger door glass was broken.

She also discovered that her white laptop, a black bag containing her purse with ID cards and bank cards were stolen.

Investigations are ongoing into this matter.

On the same day, police received a report of yet another incident.

A man told officers that his vehicle was secured in front of his apartment in Blue Hills at 10pm on Wednesday (July 24).

The following day (July 25), he discovered that his vehicle’s right front door was open and an envelope containing a Haitian passport, one TCI work permit and other documents were missing.

Investigations are ongoing into the matters.

Electricity theft under investigation POLICE are also investigating an abstracting electricity incident, which was reported on Thursday (July 25).

An employee of Fortis TCI reported that he suspects that a 47-year-old male is abstracting electricity at a private residence in Five Cays.

Officers met with the complainant at Residence Yard, Five Cays, where the Fortis TCI employee told officers that he discovered an unfinished house had electrical wires running to an electrical pole owned by Fortis TCI.

The employee told police that the electrical connection was an illegal connection because it was connected without the knowledge and permission of Fortis TCI. The electrical wires were disconnected from the electrical pole by a technician from Fortis TCI and a 47-year-old male was subsequently arrested on suspicion of abstracting electricity.

He was later released on $1,000 bail with Emase Lorestil Gibson as surety and is expected to return pending further investigation.

Bight home broken into A MAN returned to his home in the Bight to find it broken into on Thursday (July 25).

According to police, the man left the home at approximately 7pm and returned later that same day at

9.30pm to discover his door broken.

Missing are his son’s Apple Macbook, a blue handbag and a pair of white shoes.

Investigations are ongoing into this matter.

Man charged with 27 counts of theft AFTER a thorough investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, charges on 27 counts of theft have been laid against a 32-yearold, Angelot Lebrun, of South Dock Road, Providenciales.

The 27 charges are relating to an incident, which was reported on Monday, June 3, at approximately 8.06pm.

An entrepreneur of a business place in the Downtown area told officers that sums of cash were

discovered missing over a certain period of time.

An employee was later arrested and charged in connection with the report.

The 32-year-old was released on $3,000 bail and appeared in the Chief Magistrate’s Court on Friday (July 26) before Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner.

He pleaded not guilty to all 27 charges and remains on bail before his appearance in court again on Thursday, October 17.

NEWS 15

Premier faces same issues as interim administration is what makes you happy…there is no representation of the people,” he said.

BY VANESSA NARINE OPPOSITION Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, on Wednesday (July 24) in Parliament, pointed out that in 2011 the grounds on which Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, called for the interim administration to leave office, are the same charges his Government faces today – unemployment, healthcare problems and the imposition of taxation.

He said: “These are the same charges against his Government now…according to him then, those were sufficient grounds to request a stepping down.”

Selver argued that while jobs, healthcare and education are the three main focus areas of the people of the Islands, the Government’s focus on these areas is indicative of their priorities.

He stressed that Government’s priorities inform policy, which in turn influence allocations.

“The Government is complaining about what they cannot do and why they cannot do it…in the same breath they blame the British for what they are handed and still take full ownership of what is happening…. it has to be one or the other,” Selver said.

According to him, the Government has control over policy formation and they should use that to stop a trend that is marginalising local people.

Selver said: “If you look at areas of responsibility, we have to conclude that the Premier is not cutting it… what is the impediment, why are you not cutting it Mr. Premier?

“You have to address the need of the people…they say while the grass is growing the horse starves, and we are dealing with people…people who are hungry, jobless and without hope.

“We do not see hope in this budget…some of us take this as a joke and the Government is toying with the lives of our people….they take it as a joke, when some people don’t know where their next meal is

Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver

coming from.”

He pointed to the investment in education this year, compared to years past; the “lame” excuse for no change in the unemployment numbers; and the shortcomings in addressing healthcare.

“The Government has no guts to stand up and deal with this,” Selver charged.

According to him the facts are clear.

The Opposition Member also argued that while the Government’s MPs talk about being law abiding, on the third day into the debate House Members still do not have documents they need.

“You ask us to vote blindly,” Selver said.

He quipped that the Government is “driving a car with no engine” and said “going full speed ahead” will amount to naught and there will be no real change, if certain things are not addressed.

“Any promises made by the PNP should not be taken lightly,” the Opposition Appointed Member said.

This was a statement to which some laughter was the response as MPs on the other side were heard saying “a promise made, a promise kept” - a slogan often used by the former PNP administration.

Selver returned to questioning where is the representation of the people in the 2013/2014 Budget.

“My questions to the Government

A MATTER OF CHOICES Finance Minister, Washington Misick, in concluding the budget debates on Wednesday (July 24) stressed that TCIG has gone through a difficult four years.

He said: “This PNP Government has made the choice, a clear choice, to keep our economy strong and invest in our future.

“We are determined to give every child a world class education, and to make sure no Turks and Caicos Islander is left behind.

“We are determined to provide first class healthcare for our people.

“We've chosen a responsible path to surpluses while supporting jobs and growth; to make our economy stronger, our people smarter and our society fairer.”

Misick pointed out that “Rome was not built in a day” and solutions to the myriad of local problems cannot be solved in eight months.

“The public is well aware of the PNP commitments,” he stressed.

According to him, the Government continues to design strategies, to add public value and this requires making sound policy choices.

He said: “We realised that whoever won the election would have a hard road….the PNP has always been a caring government.”

The Finance Minister added that while his Government has had to work within the system, while at the same time working on changing the system, some progress has been made.

He said: “My colleagues opposite have been most disingenuous in their spin of the reality on the ground. They have chosen to curse the darkness instead of lighting a candle.”

Misick stressed that the Progressive National Party (PNP) has a proud record of making visionary choices that strengthen and improve the Turks and Caicos Islands and the lives of its people.

Radar station receives coast station licence THE TURKS and Caicos Coastal Radar Station (TCCRS) has been designated a licensed Coast Station and now has a new permanent call sign, ‘Provo Radio’ (Papa Romeo).

The radar station received its designation as an official Coast Station on June 11, which meant that Turks and Caicos Coastal Radar operations had to undergo a name change from its present call sign ‘Provo Radar’ to ‘Provo Radio’ (Papa Romeo).

They will however, continue to monitor the radio frequency ‘VHF 16/74’.

Since its official opening in September 2012, the station’s ‘Provo Radar’ call sign has been a temporary one pending the receipt of its official Coast Station licence

from the Telecommunications Licensing Authority, in line with international rules governing the assignment of radio and broadcast frequencies.

The radar station is a fully government operated facility providing 24-hour coverage to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Since its commission the station has provided vital services to international and local boaters, and had been a vital tool in border protection.

Radar supervisor Rodman Johnson said: “No doubt boaters will continue to refer to us as ‘Provo Radar’ for a while, however we hope boaters will quickly adopt the name ‘Provo Radio’.”

Despite the change in call sign,

this multi-functioning facility will keep its present name (TCCRS) Turks and Caicos Coastal Radar Station.

And while its main role is marine traffic surveillance, the facility will continue to work in collaboration with the Ports Authority and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force marine division in areas of law enforcement; monitoring all calls from vessels on local and international voyages; issuing navigation warnings and weather forecasts as well as aid in search rescue operations.

“We are here to provide the boating community with any information necessary to enhance your safety in our waters and sea ports,” Johnson said.

16 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Ewing calls debate personalised political rhetoric THE BUDGET debate in the House of Assembly was rife with attacks, both personal and political stirring the ire of many and prompting the intervention of the Speaker in several instances.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, whose presentation followed several Government and Opposition members, most notably the leader of the Opposition, Sharlene CartwrightRobinson, dedicated more than an hour to address what he referred to as baseless criticisms of his Government.

Cartwright-Robinson, whose presentation was the longest in the four day long debate, took the opportunity to single out every Government ministry and make recommendations on areas of improvement.

She came under fire from the leader of Government business in the House.

Ewing said: “It is easy to say what to do or how it should be done but when it comes to actually doing it that is another game that some people just can’t play.”

He stressed that his party and Government have been through hell and back but that they are still

pressing on.

According to him, the budget is the beginning of the restoration period and that it will take the country all the way to the top.

He also drew attention to the town hall meetings his Government recently conducted on the various islands, stating he has pledged to the residents that the concerns they aired did not fall on deaf ears.

“We will not be able to address all of the concerns with the urgency or results that are desired but we will address them within the confines of our financial means and in the best interest of you the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands in the short, medium and long term,” the Premier said.

Ewing pointed to CartwrightRobinson’s statements on independence, saying that he is very disturbed by them.

According to the Premier the Opposition leader seems to be saying that continued talks of independence will be detrimental to the economic survival of the country.

He said: “My party has outlined our positions and plans towards independence in our manifesto, so we are not ashamed of our position on independence.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing

“But we are cognisant that the actual achievement of independence is left to the will of the people as guided by the Government’s strong commitment to achieving it as outlined in its policy and plans.”

Cartwright-Robinson then rose to clarify, stating that her position and that of her party is that the route to go to independence is through the commission that carries that dialogue.

Ewing however, stated he is quite certain she had stated that Government should not be talking about independence because it will

Insights for your Innerspring

Your organization needs more than a Vision and Mission Statement (Part 3) AS we complete this topic we focus on the remaining aspects of the Balanced Scorecard which helps to crystallize the framework of outstanding organizations.

Objectives: The question that must be answered here is what continuous improvements are needed to get results?

In this instance the barber (our example) has to set some objectives for himself like upgrading his skills, learning innovative haircuts from other barbers or magazines, trying new ideas and techniques and asking the customers what they would like to see. This approach creates a strong bond between the barber and the customers; it challenges the barber to stay on the cutting edge and ensures that quality stays high. Customers appreciate that.

Strategy Map: This can look like a jumbled mess when viewed for the first time but once you know how to read them you soon see it as a map that can be used to navigate your business operations, be sensitive to the customer’s behavior, see daily results and view future projections all on the one document. Strategy maps answer the question … How

do we create and improve value for customers? It introduces new products, refines processes, and creates an avenue for the customer’s voice to be heard consistently and as a result one can then develop and create initiatives to answer their needs and wants.

Performance Measures & Targets: Everyone needs to get feedback, whether it is the CEO or the janitor.

In business there must be an ongoing dialog between the company and the customer. This is the stage where that happens. It answers the question … are we achieving the results we want from the actions and efforts we are exerting? It is here where companies would use surveys, interviews and internal reports to determine where they are on target and then create a plan to make improvements as necessary.

Strategic Initiatives: This is where the rubber meets the road! After all the talk about reports and interviews, market tests and statements; there must come a time when the business must act! It is at this juncture that the company must implement the projects and programs necessary to contribute to the results they desire.

From a philosophical point of view the mission and vision statements act

By Whitney Bain as a rallying cry for the organization but it’s the implementation of strategy that injects energy and action into an organization’s operation. In physical terms the mission and vision are the brain and the strategic initiatives are the feet; while everything in between operates to ensure that what is thought of is eventually carried out.

There’s a reason why recipes and maps are created. Recipes show that consistent results can be achieved when a set series of actions are followed and maps enable a destination to be arrived at even without prior knowledge of where one may be going.

In business the recipe and map is called the balanced scorecard.

It allows organizations to utilize a set series of actions to reach consistent business results and allows business leaders to march confidently towards an unknown destination.

Please visit the link below to learn more about this subject: http://www. balancedscorecard.org/LinkClick. aspx? fileticket=D%2bEwi bKKLeA%3d&tabid=58 If you have questions or comments about this article please write to whitney_bain@yahoo.com.

scare away investors.

“I would not deny that there are investors who would be hesitant about investing in a country that is about to go independent, but there may be Turks and Caicos Islanders who may flee this green grass to go to grass that looks greener at the very mention of the word independence,” he said.

The Premier noted that there needs to be more education on this topic, but the views of the Opposition on the issue are not helpful.

He also took umbrage with Cartwright-Robinson’s statement during her presentation that the Government is a minority government.

Although the Speaker of the House had corrected her that the Government was indeed the majority, she had insisted that she views it as a minority.

“We hold the greater number of seats in this assembly while those on the other side had to form a shadow government and cry out for protection of their rights as a minority in this House of Assembly,” Ewing charged.

“The Honourable Leader of the Opposition should desist from misleading the public.”

Taking another swipe at the recently formed shadow government, Ewing said the PDM has to “wait their turn in the shadows’.

Drawing attention to her statements regarding senior civil servants being unfruitful, Ewing said thrsr kind of baseless accusations against hardworking civil servants are counterproductive.

Meanwhile, the Premier noted that though expectations are high, they will deliver, but that it is virtually impossible for them to do so if the plans the party has for its four year term is expected to be done in the first year of governance, as is expected by the Opposition.

He said: “It seems that those on the other side expect us to feed the entire nation with five loaves and two fishes.

“Yes we are good, but we are not miracle workers…contrary what has been said by the Governor’s appointed member female, we have our priorities straight, straight.

“All we have heard in this House over the past few days are personalised political rhetoric from members on the other side.

“We should have done this; we should have done that, inciting our lack of prioritisation.”

Ewing said the Government stated its priorities as education, primary healthcare and finance.

“We indeed have our priorities straight, because 79 per cent of what we have available as new funds to spend is spent on those priorities.”

He stated that the budget is indeed a small capital budget but that it was the hand they were dealt and what they have to manage.

The Premier said: “We can’t live beyond our means; we can’t give more than we have to give.

“What we have we will prioritise and in prioritising we saw that $1.2 million went towards education capital projects, $1.03 million

went towards health related capital projects.”

Addressing the issue of VAT and restriction of expenditure, Ewing stated that the budget is not an austerity measure budget.

“It is not a cut budget. We are cognisant that whilst these two measures would have improved Government’s revenue in the short term, they are not good for the economy in the medium and long term,” the Premier said.

He reminded that Government fought against VAT because it knew it was not good for the country; however he added that the defeat may very well be temporary as VAT is lurking in the shadows waiting to be re-enacted if Government does not achieve its fiscal revenue target.

The Premier also updated the House on the provisions for tourism and what Government intends to do to boost the industry.

He outlined an upcoming event in September to be held in Miami where the TCI will be the main feature, as it was in Canada.

Ewing said: “It is our intention to hold a major investment and tourism conference in the summer of next year in partnership with our private sector corporations to ensure that it is an event of major success.

“Many may ask, why not now for this conference? We have a number of planning initiatives to execute for which funding is just now being made in this budget.”

These initiatives include the national development planning exercise which budgeted at $100,000; the national physical development plan for $150,000; $300,000 for the tourism and strategic and marketing strategy; $150,000 for the agriculture and development plan and another $100,000 for the ports master plan.

Ewing said the planning exercise will include a wide number of stakeholders and MPs as part of the proposed national agenda.

Although touching on the Ministry of Education, which along with the health sector, came under severe fire from the Opposition benches, the Premier only acknowledged the critical importance of the ministry.

As has been said numerous times over the past few months, he reiterated his Government’s commitment to finding the funds to address the overcrowding situation at the Clement Howell High School.

He gave assurances that provisions will be made for accommodation of new students in the coming year, however, he failed to state what these provisions were.

Ewing also pointed to the recently concluded education consultation, stating that Government awaits the recommendations on the way forward.

“We have to be cautious as to how much money we put into a system that is broken or that doesn’t serve the needs of today.

“This funding is much better spent after an informed strategic policy is developed with specific strategic objectives to which funding can be allocated to achieve the goals set.” (DI)

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 17

Tell the people the truth, Opposition Leader

BY VANESSA NARINE IN WHAT was dubbed a “marathon speech” by the House Speaker, Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, outlined her areas of concern in the 2013/2014 Budget.

She called for the Government to “tell the truth” to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Today marks return to normal budget process, it feels good to be part of return to normalcy….but I am disheartened about what happened here today,” she said.

According to her, the Opposition team serves not just for the Opposition, but will work with the Government when it is in the best interests of the people.

She said: “We will not spite the people of the TCI, but we will call out Government’s lip service of working together.

“The Opposition has a clear role…we are built in oversight and will not abandon this role just to hold hands…we are accountable to the people and must represent the people and future of the TCI.” CLARIFICATION In her presentation the Opposition Leader asked for clarification on issues related to revenue, expenditure and the sinking fund.

She reiterated the Opposition’s position on taxation and noted that the new string of taxes is different to what was earlier mentioned by the current administration during the Value Added Tax fight.

Cartwright-Robinson said: “Yes we have to pay our way, but we cannot support the Government with new taxes…there must be a structured, steady approach to create a tax stream and albeit late, we accept the invitation to serve on Blue Ribbon Commission.”

According to her, the Opposition will not allow itself to be used.

“They don’t love me, they only know me when they need me,” she quipped, quoting a popular Bahamian folk son.

In the area of expenditure, the Opposition Leader questioned allocations made and the way they were presented.

She noted that particular expenses should be captured under specific line items and also recommended cost control measures to make money available for other need areas.

Cartwright-Robinson said: “There must be a complete review of value for money…these are public funds and better accounting of these funds must be reflected in Government’s budget, in the interest of furtherance of good governance.”

Debt She questioned spending on local bills and overseas bills, as well as outstanding bills.

According to her, the situation of bills in the drawer should not be repeated.

“We need to be sure that historical bills not in dispute or before the courts are paid off,” she said.

Healthcare Cartwright-Robinson noted that the Budget speaks to significant healthcare costs and limited scope to reduce those costs, however, under provisions for healthcare, the primary healthcare manager has been removed and that function carried by another official.

She stressed that to strengthen healthcare, focus must be on primary healthcare.

“If we give a little we save a lot,” she said.

The Opposition Leader also called for a review of the InterHealth Canada contract.

She said: “We ought to review this contract, it appears to have a middle man, and in this case it always costs more.

“Two years ago we could not know the cost of running the hospitals, review is needed….the contract is why we cannot have a truly balanced budget and why the needs of our country have to put on hold…there must be a clear direction to address the monster that is healthcare.”

Education In the education sector, the Opposition Leader made it clear that there must always be sacrifices for education.

She said: “We ought to position ourselves where we have education opportunities for all levels, as well as for those in the workforce…we flirt with independence, but we have to make sure our people are not left behind.

“I am not saying make scholarships all the time, but some kind of opportunity to support our youth, which is why I support the reestablishment of TCInvest.”

Cartwright-Robinson also recommended building local capacity as a move towards investing at all levels of education.

Another recommendation from her was the fostering of partnerships with private sector to facilitate an exchange programme, where people on work permits volunteer time at the Community College.

“We see more lip service rather than effort to tackle serious issues and it brings up the question, how serious are we to developing this sector?” she said.

“We have to take a serious interest in this area and the opportunities to advance are available….we must take education more seriously.”

Youth The Opposition Leader said the issue with local youth has grown and is no longer only about petty theft anymore.

She said: “All the attention can be placed on economy, but if we ignore the underlying social issues, we will be in trouble.

“We have to pay attention…we have been elected by the people and are mandated to take care of our people.

“It is up to us, we have to provide programmes and avenues for those who need help to get help.”

Civil recovery Turning to the Attorney General’s

Consultancy Cartwright-Robinson added that returning students are not expected to be placed in positions where experience is required, but the start has to be made somewhere.

“We have to build capacity by training people, rather than spending thousands on consultancy,” she said.

Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

Chambers, Cartwright-Robinson questioned if the TCI is getting value for money.

“The AG said they are his agents and I can only believe we are getting value for money,” she said.

She called for costs to be brought to a minimum.

Civil service The Opposition Leader also called for changes needed in the civil service.

She said: “This Budget is putting sand in holes and planting trees… there are no signs of rebuilding the civil service for the people of the TCI. “This Budget should signal a succession plan, and while we talk of independence, our people have to be in key position, not others, who sometimes do not have our interests at heart.

“Every page should have succession plan, but there is no plan to have our people in the reign of power…one would expect more from a Government led by the former president of the Civil Service Association (CSA).

“This budget is not showing empowerment of local people in the civil service…the move to marginalise our people is not only in private sector, but also in the public sector and this is something we cannot fall asleep on.

“There must be a greater effort to address this, lack of effort seen in the allocation of small amounts on training, bringing in expat workers on exorbitant contracts when we have qualified Turks Islanders who can fill those posts…a comprehensive approach in this area has to be a greater priority.

“If in two years Turks and Caicos Islanders are not in the upper echelon of civil servants then the Premier would have failed the civil servants.”

Police She pointed out that the even with the still low crime numbers, the gun violence ought to be a point of concern.

“The statement made in the police budget has $102,600 in gun licensing fees…this is four times what was budgeted for and that figure says to me that individuals are arming themselves, a right they have.

“We will always support the police and have been asking for more resources for police. The time is now to step up to resource our police.”

Housing The Opposition Leader called for spending on the development of new sub-division schemes to empower Islanders to be able to own land.

Border control She added that the operating expenses of the Immigration Department, a crucial department, must be resourced.

The Opposition Leader said: “We expect a lot when we put little into this area…we have to move away from expecting people to be good corporate citizens and step up compliance by ensuring dept is properly resourced.”

She noted too that the UK has to step up to their responsibility of border security.

“It is the UK’s responsibility to protect our borders and any breach of borders is a result of their failure in duty to the TCI and they should reimburse us.

“This must not and cannot be our responsibility alone,” CartwrightRobinson said.

PROMISES MADE She also went through the promises made in the Throne speech, the Government’s first policy statement, the FSPS and the Budget, following after.

“We are still waiting,” she said, pointing to specific issues.

According to her, many promises were made, but no foundation has been laid for these in the 2013/2014 Budget.

“I support the Premier’s promises, but we see no foundation….the industry areas are waiting on you, the Opposition is waiting on you and the people of the TCI are waiting on you...you cannot make statements if you will not give it the priority the people expect,” she said.

The Opposition Leader called on the Government to review priorities or keep promises.

“The Government can do much more in the budget,” she said.

According to her, clear strategies are needed, population and tourism policies, among others; main markets have to be resourced and development spread to the family islands.

“The Minister (Washington Misick) is honest to a fault, and he is right we have tough decisions to be made,” she acknowledged.

However, Cartwright-Robinson stated that there is no improvement in provision of resources and people are waiting on the Budget and many will be disappointed.

“If we tell the people the truth they will be able to prepare,” she said, reiterating her main call, “This country is struggling and we cannot continue like this.”

The Opposition Leader made it clear that the Government does not have to work alone, rather request support to advance the TCI for the people of the Islands.

International travel agents enjoy weekend escape in TCI

TWELVE international travel agents including representatives from Consultoria e Negócios Turísticos in Brazil and Luxury St. in Moscow were treated to true TCI hospitality when TCHTA hosted its fifth annual TCI Destination Weekend Escape.

Accommodated at Venetian Ridge Villas and Spa, Regent Palms, Ports of Call Resort, The Alexandra, Beach House, Point Grace, Ocean Club Resorts and Villa del Mar, the agents were given firsthand knowledge of what their clients truly experience while vacationing in the TCI through the Association's Weekend Escape initiative.

Speaking at a cocktail reception compliments Blue Haven Resort, TCHTA's association executive, Stacy Cox, said: “Our TCI Destination Weekend Escape programme continues to be a hit with travel agents who sell the destination as they are given the opportunity to visit TCI, as well as stay at and tour some of our amazing hotels courtesy of TCHTA and its members.

“This then better allows them to promote and sell the destination.

“Our aim is that through this initiative TCI leaves a long-lasting impression with the agents and reinforces the fact that we have a first class destination for all travellers.

“The TCHTA would like to extend special thanks to its members who so willingly sponsored rooms or services in order to make the Weekend Escape possible.

“This year Hemingway's hosted the agents to lunch and the boat trip to North and Middle Caicos was facilitated by the Tourist Board and Caicos Wheels.

“I am also pleased to note that through our recent Sales Blitz in Brazil there has been increased interest in the destination with our first Brazil travel agent from Campo Grande participating this year."

Weekend Escape 2013, she added, put the TCI in a good position for the upcoming winter season and beyond with all participating agents announcing their continued commitment to promoting and selling the destination on their return.

The event took place from July 18 to 21.

Lifestyle...

18

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Changing it Up – Five Weird Workouts GETTING tired of your workout routine?

Last column I wrote about a beach workout as a change of scenery. There are a number of other variations you can adopt to spice things up and still get a good workout.

Exercise programs come and go.

Every year there are new trends, and that’s okay. Something new and exciting might just be the motivation you need to keep up your regime.

In the past we had step aerobics, jazzercise and pole dancing as the leading crazes.

Here are a few new ones.

Mud Races: Sometimes it is just fun to get dirty. Slopping through mud over and under obstacles where accomplishment and teamwork are emphasized over finishing times.

The Tough Mudder events continue to grow in popularity with over 12 000 participants enrolled in a recent event.

Barre: Going beyond classic ballet and the bar method, this workout encompasses ballet, stretching, strengthening and dance. This is

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician Dr. Joe LeMoine

a latest craze that can be done in a group or at home using a chair back as your bar.

Thug Workout: Started as an inner city trend, it involves using what is around you instead of a formal gym. It could be a playground or construction scaffold. Those used tires and blocks can be great for resistance training. Lookup the Hydropark Outdoor gym in the Ukraine for inspiration; exercise machines including discarded trucks and scrap yard pieces.

Extreme Yoga: Yoga is always adapting and new variations. Some of the more recent are hot yoga, working out at 105 degrees. Another is paddleboard yoga whichfurther challenging your balance.

Free Running, Parkour: Out of

Pear Bread This bread is great lightly toasted for breakfast or anytime.

Ingredients: • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon • 3/4 cup vegetable oil • 3 eggs • 2 cups white sugar • 2 cups peeled shredded pears • 1 cup chopped pecans Directions: 1. In a large mixing bowl combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Make a well in the center of the bowl.

2. In a separate bowl combine the oil, eggs, sugar, grated pears, pecans, and vanilla. Blend well.

Add to well of dry ingredients.

Stir until just moistened. Spoon batter into 2 greased and floured 8x5x3 inch loaf pans.

3. Bake in a preheated 325 degree F (165 degrees C) oven for one hour and 15 minutes. Cool on wire rack before removing from the loaf pans.

France a recent trend that keeps growing. Moving gracefully and in spectacular fashion. A combination of gymnastics, aerobics and martial arts makes this a great all round workout.

Hoopnotica: This is not your childhood hula-hoop. But it is a fun and energetic workout. Going beyond abs, it can be modified for the arms and other parts. It’s a calorie burner with a thirty-minute workout

equivalent to about 500 sit-ups.

If you are comfortable with your routine, good for you and keep it up. But if you are getting tired of your regime, explore a new exercise workout.

health Tip 

Pears SWEET, delicious and rich flavored pears offer crunchiness of apples yet juicy as peach and nectarine.

They are widely popular, especially in the whole of the northern hemisphere, for their unique nutrient qualities.

Pears fruit is packed with health benefiting nutrients such as dietary fiber, anti-oxidants, minerals and vitamins, which are necessary for optimum health.

In addition, pear fruit is one of the very low calorie fruits. You can use pears for weight loss. A pear contains just 103 calories and hence is a healthy, low calorie snack. Eat a pear at night to prevent hunger pangs.

Some doctors also recommend pears for diabetics since they are low in calories and carbohydrates Pears for acne are often recommended due to their high levels of vitamins and minerals.

Drinking pear and other fruit juices helps to introduce these nutrients easily into the bloodstream. Minerals are helpful in neutralizing skin acids and regulating the pH balance of the skin. This is beneficial in preventing

and treating acne. Fresh fruit juices help to destroy bacteria in the body and also aid in the proper digestion of protein and fat. This helps to cleanse the body and prevents toxins from building up.

You can use pears for acid reflux because they help to absorb excess stomach acids.

Pear juice and pears for the gallbladder are beneficial because they help to prevent gallstones. Pears contain malic acid which helps to

slowly disintegrate the stones.

These are only a few of the many benefits of this fruit.

Although not well documented, pears are among the least allergenic of all fruits and are therefore recommended by health practitioners as a safe alternative in the preparation of food products for allergy sufferers.

Pears have suggested in various traditional medicines being useful in treating colitis, arthritis and gout.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Lifestyle...

GARDENING 

19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

How does your garden grow

YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

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

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

Q: What food are good sources of vitamin D?

The vegetable garden GROWING vegetables in the ground can be a real challenge in the Turks and Caicos Islands. In many parts of the islands, it's almost impossible to dig because of the limestone rocks.

That's why it makes sense to grow your vegetable garden in raised beds!

On level ground, lay cardboard or several layers of newspapers directly on top of grass. This prevents grass and nematode (roundworms) from getting into your garden soil.

To raise your vegetable garden you can use landscape timbers, lumber, cement blocks or limestone rocks. If using blocks, the walls of the raised bed don't need to be more than 1 layer high. Herbs and vegetables only need a soil depth of 8” (which is the same height of cement blocks).

Place the timbers, lumber, limestone rocks or cement blocks over the newspaper or cardboard.

Use bagged composted cow manure or compost. You can also mix together potting soil and compost but this is more expensive and not better for growing your plants. Using top soil or earth can have nematodes, soil-borne plant pathogens, and often does not drain well. If using cement blocks, fill in the holes. You can plant flowers and herbs in them.

Plant your garden the day (or within a day or two) after you add the soil.

Summer or year-round garden: Eggplant, okra, turnip greens, southern peas, sweet potatoes, calabaza, chayote, ginger, cherry tomatoes.

Fall, winter, spring: Tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, squash, leafy vegetables, herbs, carrots, peppers, beets, sweet peas, and sweet potatoes.

Save space by trellising vines

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

(except sweet potatoes) even squash, cucumbers, and gourds can be grown on a trellis (support the fruit with panty hose or a cloth sling tied to the trellis). Use cages for tomatoes and eggplants.

Watering: Transplants and seedlings need light watering about once a day for the first week or two.

Soil should be moist but not wet. As plants get larger, water deeply (so that all the soil in the bed is moist).

You can test the soil moisture with your finger 2 inches below the soil surface and if it’s dry just water.

Avoid wetting the leaves and water in the morning to help prevent plant disease problems.

Fertilizing: Usually not needed if you are using compost. Look

for yellowing, stunted plants as an indication that fertilization may be needed. Too much fertilizer can be harmful and inhibit flowering.

Growing flowers in your garden adds beauty and also provides a nectar and pollen source for beneficial insects (they keep pests in check). Squish or hand removes bugs and caterpillars. Spray the underside of leaves with insecticidal.

If you are not gardening during the summer, cover the beds with clear plastic. Leave in place all summer or for at least 6 weeks to kill nematodes and soil-borne pathogens.

Next season, just before planting, add more compost or composted cow manure to make your "soil" level 8" deep.

A: Vitamin D is very important in that it helps with optimal absorption of calcium and phosphorous; two minerals needed for strong bones and teeth. It also helps to regulate the amount of calcium in the blood.

Vitamin D is commonly called the ‘sunshine vitamin’ because the best source of this vitamin is the sun—something we have ample amounts of around here. However, you should still be mindful of wearing sunscreen when spending long hours outside.

Vitamin D is not naturally found in many foods so it’s important to choose wisely so that we get enough of the vitamin. Sometimes we see foods that are ‘fortified’ with vitamin D; this means that the vitamin has been added to the food.

Some good vitamin D foods include: fatty fish such as tuna and salmon; most milk; and many types of orange juice, yogurt, cheeses, cereals, breads and soy drinks.

Q: Is lactose intolerance the same as milk allergy?

A: The short answer is no. Many people commonly confuse the two saying they are allergic to milk because they have gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea, gas and cramping.

However, milk allergy and lactose intolerance are quite different.

Lactose intolerance occurs when a person does not have the ability to break down lactose, the sugar in milk.

A milk allergy on the other hand is an immune response to the protein in milk where the body sees the protein as a foreign invader that it must destroy.

As you would imagine, the symptoms of a milk allergy are more severe than those of lactose intolerance and may include itchy eyes, rashes, runny noses and respiratory difficulties.

Persons with an intolerance may be able to have small amounts of milk but persons with an allergy must avoid milk altogether.

Nutrition In Demand A non profit organization helping you to: "Eat Healthy Today...

Living, Longer, Better Tomorrow" Cell: (649) 242-3978 or (649) 442-3978

20 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Gov’t commits to private sector support – Finance Minister outlines several development projects on the table

BY VANESSA NARINE SUPPORT of the private sector is key, according to Finance Minister, Washington Misick, in his Budget presentation to the House of Assembly on Monday (July 22).

He said: “My Government appreciates the importance of a vibrant private sector, and is committed to the creation of a friendly business climate where businesses can prosper.

“We take the opinions of the sectors seriously, and are committed to working cooperatively with it on important issues such as security, unnecessary bureaucracy, job training, and labour concerns.

“My Government also depends on the sector to partner with us to further develop the infrastructure in the country that they depend on to expand their business and to succeed.”

The Minister highlighted several areas of cooperation with the private sector that are being looked at, including the promotion of local and international direct investment in all sectors of the economy; the provision of efficient and less bureaucratic public services, which meet and exceed the business community’s requirements; the promotion of inter-island and international trade; the creation of awareness of the critical importance of the private sector to the livelihood and well-being of the country; the promotion of development of small and medium size enterprises; the encouragement of improvement in the quality and consistency of all products and services through the creation and implementation of best

practices and world class standards; and the development of a transparent framework for information sharing and consultation with all representative groups in the private sector.

DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS In addition to advancing the support framework for the private sector, Misick outlined several development projects that are currently on the table.

He said: “The Caribbean/ Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 131 hotels totalling 21,957 rooms, according to the June 2013 Smith Travel Research (STR) Construction Pipeline Report.

“The total active pipeline includes projects in the construction, final planning and planning stages but does not include projects in the preplanning stage.

“Among the region’s countries, Mexico reported the most rooms under construction with 4,025 rooms.

“Five other countries reported more than 200 rooms under construction: Dominican Republic (2,475 rooms); Bahamas (2,271 rooms); Puerto Rico (709 rooms); Aruba (320 rooms); and Jamaica (238 rooms).

“By my count, TCI has in excess of 1,500 rooms in the planning stage.

“This emphasises the need to remove red tape and replace it with red carpet, if we are to continue to attract investment, and remain competitive.”

He maintained that the current administration is working on an aggressive project facilitation of new investment in TCI. “Current projects are either at

Finance Minister Washington Misick

the Development Agreement (DA) or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) stage or in early implementation phase,” he said.

The projects named by the Finance Minister include: Grand Turk: North Creek Marina and hotel development; White Sands expansion; and Dolphin Cove; South Caicos: East Bay Resort Development – Expansion of their Development Agreement/Order; Sail Rock - South Caicos; and Sun Crystal Health Salt processing business; In North Caicos: St. Charles Resort is under Sale and Purchase Agreement by a group with plans to redevelop and build out the project.

In Providenciales, Misick noted that there are several projects with major financial impacts that are being looked at.

A recent major project was the Desarollos Hotel Group, which signed an MOU in July 2012 for the establishment of three five star branched European plan hotels located along Grace Bay beach.

The group has purchased two

Digicel hosts beach party and announces summer promotions

BY DAISY HANDFIELD

A DIGICEL press conference was held at Beaches last Friday where CEO of the company, E. Jay Saunders, took the opportunity to speak on the business’ accomplishments in the 20122013 business year.

He said: “I would like to thank everyone for coming out to Digicel’s summer promotions and seventh anniversary which is July 7.

“We always take the time to launch our summer promotion the same time as our anniversary and talk a little bit about the things we are going to do and what we have done in the past year.

“This particular year I would

like to talk more about some of the things we have done.

“As you guys are aware we changed from the ‘Bigger Better Network’ to ‘Be Extraordinary’.

“I just want to make it clear that we are a completely new brand now.”

Saunders noted that the company is already on the verge of launching their second smart phone and the first one has been going off the shelves rapidly, with people also on their waiting lists.

A part of the summer promotion is also the chance to win a trip for two or four to any of the 22 Sandals resorts in the Caribbean.

He went on to explain why they chose Beaches as a grand

prize.

“Many times prizes may be trips to the United States or Europe but, we find that persons who won it do not have a visa to claim the prize and we would have to cash the prizes out.

“We don’t want to have to do that, we want the persons to enjoy the prizes because the experiences are far more valuable.”

Participants can buy a handset, top up $15 or more or sign up for a 4G plan for a chance to win the grand prize or other smaller prizes from Digicel.

The company held a beach party at the Kids’ Park on Lower Bight Road as part of their seventh anniversary.

The event was well attended.

development sites and has indicated that to date they have spent over $30 million inclusive of land the purchase.

He said: “The group proposes to develop a 380 bedroom hotel on a 10.5 acre site adjacent to the Seven Stars Resort to be branded and managed by J W Marriott in the first place.

“It proposes to develop two additional five star hotels with a further total combined 500 beds, adjacent to the Sands Resort.

“It is planned that each project will follow in immediate succession to facilitate bridging finance, and optimum utilisation of construction equipment, and other overheads.

“The implication is an extensive period of potentially up to six years of continuous construction activities by the group once the initial phase of the construction commences.

“My Government is working closely with the group to facilitate the project toward an expedited start.

“But projects of the size planned by the group have a long planning phase.

“The group has been granted outline planning permit.

“The sponsors are working closely with various government departments to ensure that all required regulations are incorporated in the detail design of the project including the provisions for adequate fire protection to meet the brand standards.

“Construction is slated to commence during the summer of 2014.

“The financial impact of the combined projects beings proposed

by Desarollos is huge.

“The direct value of the combined investment is estimated at around $750 million, this is more than the entire current GDP of TCI at the moment.

“The long term operating benefit to TCIG and the economy over a ten year period after development will result in billions of dollars into the local economy.”

Another development is in Shore Club, which Misick said expects to close on financing with the next 30 days, with a view to commencing construction in the fourth quarter of this calendar year.

“The project consists of 38 luxurious condominium residences and six estate villas together with all the necessary conveniences at a construction value in excess of $100 million,” he said.

The Finance Minister added that the Hyatt Andaz Turks and Caicos is planned as a world class lifestyle luxury resort consisting of 100 hotel keys, 76 condominium units, three luxury villas with fill resort amenities.

He said an MOU between the developers and new investors has recently been signed, and the new

investors are under taking the obligatory Due Diligence (DD).

“This project has been issued with Outline Planning Permission (OPP) sometime ago.

“Construction value is around $250 million. If the developers receive a commitment for the funding at the end of the DD period during the month of August, further planning will continue with a view to commencing construction in 12 months,” Misick said.

He pointed out too that the Third Turtle Development, which signed an MOU in October 2012 with TCIG, will see the development of a $70 million hotel, casino and marina complex on the vacant Third Turtle site on Providenciales.

Misick said: “The agreement gives the developers until December 31, 2013, to apply for OPP and 40 months to complete the development after obtaining Detailed Development Permission (DDP).

“By current estimation this project will not commence construction before 2015.”

INVESTMENT POLICY The Finance Minister stressed that efforts are being made to improve the economy.

According to him a new investment policy is under review

by Government with the specific objectives of attracting long-term growth oriented investment that is aimed at creating local jobs; proactively encourage appropriate investment into the lesser-developed family islands; pro-actively attract investment into new industries to broaden the economic base; operate a regulated system of investment incentives that is clear, transparent and relatively easy to monitor for compliance and aftercare; reduce the cost of doing business; and lower the barriers to entry into business except for high risk activities.

He said: “As part of my Government’s efforts to accelerate the rate of direct foreign investment, we remain committed to the establishment of a one stop investment and promotional entity that will promote and facilitate investment generally, but more particularly in our main industries of tourism and financial services.

“With the creation of this new body, changes are proposed to a number of legislation including the Encouragement of Development Ordinance. “ The Finance Minister stated that the local economy grew by half of a per cent in 2012 according to RBC Caribbean Report.

He said: “By TCIG’s own calculation. it is estimated to have grown by about three quarters of a percentage.”

The TCI economy is projected to grow at a robust rate of 3.5 per cent in 2013, which according to Misick, is above the World Bank projections for the Caribbean as a whole.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

NEWS 21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TCI’s ultimate physique competition set for this weekend ELEVEN of TCI’s hottest men and women are set to compete in The Body Show, TCI’s ultimate physique competition this Saturday at Brayton Hall.

The bunch will take to the stage, for a chance to win cash, fabulous prizes, and the honor of being named Miss Body Beautiful and Mr Best Body TCI 2013.

Show director, Courtney Robinson said that The Body Show is a dual one. “For Miss Body Beautiful contestants, it is a fitness and personal growth competition that is geared towards empowering women to have a positive image of self, that they can accept their bodies as they are.”

“For the male counterpart, Mr Best Body gives men the opportunity to showcase their physicality in a way that they have never done before. Men need not be fashion model size or as big as bodybuilders; however, being fit with a desire to present themselves

is a must.”

The Body Show is open to men and women 18 years of age and older, with no restriction on height, body shape, marital status or nationality.

Robinson said that past stage experience was not necessary; all that is required is a positive selfimage and the confidence to compete in front of a live audience.

Contestants include Nicola Jentgen, Alyx Williams, Carla Vianca Manaloto, Tory Deal, Nathanaelle Louis, Jeritt Williams, Farah George, Reonardo Harvey, Anya Panda, Clay Seymour and Mauquieta Carter This spectacular summer sensation will be hosted by the ebullient Paula Arthur Rigby of ‘The Average Joe Show’ and the debonair O’Brien Forbes, managing-director of Forbes Concierge.

With ‘Stronger, Confident, Attractive’ as its motto, The Body Show Contestants will be judged

The Body Show contestants are ready to compete for Miss Body Beautiful and Mr Best Body in TCI’s ultimate physique competition on July 27

during three segments - Introduction, Swimwear and Sportswear.

Latoya Pinder, Miss Body

Organisers of Food and Wine Festival speak on upcoming event

BY DAISY HANDFIELD A PRESS conference was held at the Grace Bay Club on Wednesday where the masterminds behind the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival spoke on this year’s event.

Present at the initiative were the Wine Cellar and five different resorts including, the Regent Palms, Gansevoort, Coyaba, Grace Bay Club and Seven Stars.

The event is scheduled to take place around the end of October to the beginning of November and is expected to host international chefs and winemakers from all over the globe.

Chief operating officer and principal for Grace Bay Club

Resorts, Nikheel Advani, expressed his excitement for the event and also noted that this year would be better than previous years.

He said: “We are excited to bring to you once again the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival.

“This year we have an amazing line up, in fact it has grown.

“As we started this we knew that this would become one of the premier events in the Caribbean and quite clearly this time we have people reaching out to us who want to be part of it.”

General manager for the Regent Palms, Karen Whitt, spoke on hotel’s involvement.

She said: “The Regent Palms has been involved in this event from the

Chefs from various resorts with the organisers

inception and we watched it grow from strength to strength every year and no doubt it is primarily due to the efforts of Nikheel, Tony Garland and their team doing an outstanding job year around.

“We are so pleased to be hosting the opening night as well as participating in the gourmet safari and I can tell you our entire team are involved and we have a lot of really exciting ideas - this is going to be the year for this event.”

On the opening night local chefs will be working with celebrity chefs and featuring collaborations between bringing something international to the island as well as working with the local talent.

Beautiful TCI 2012 and Washanda Registre TCI Top Model 2012 will crown and sash Miss Body Beautiful 2013, while Samentha Etienne, TCI Top Model and Merrick Campbell, male fitness model will sash Mr Best Body.

The event promises performances by Lavenia Hamilton, Branford Handfield, Donnicia Gardiner, Codero Cash, Straudia Forbes, Dreka Mayhem and other headliners.

Advanced purchase of tickets

cost $150.00 - Sky Box (includes complementary beverages), $75.00 -VIP and General Admission- $50.

An addition $10.00 will be charged at the door.

For more information contact Courtney Robinson on Provo, at 232-6796, Kereitta Simpson on Grand Turk at 241-3989 or email thebodyshowtci@gmail.com.

They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ thebodyshowtc, on Twitter @ thebodyshowtci or on Instagram

More value from LIME with 'Unlimited Talk and Text' VALUE for money is increasingly important for people in the Turks and Caicos Islands and LIME is determined to provide the best value offer in the telecoms market.

LIME’s new 'Unlimited Talk and Text' plan for mobile prepaid customers is the next step in delivering best value for customers.

For only $5 weekly customers can now enjoy Unlimited Talk and Text to any customers on LIME’s mobile or fixed line networks in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

That is unlimited calling and texting with family and friends for as little as 0.71 cents a day.

Acting general manager, Lacal Palmer, said: “This plan stacks up against any other offer in the market by anyone and it comes out on top.

“Customers will pay only $5 and will have unlimited talk and text for a whole week.”

She continued: “This is just the beginning from LIME and there is more to come.”

Not only will LIME be offering the Unlimited Talk and Text plan but the company will also be making major rate changes for local calls and key destinations around the world.

There is also something there for landline customers and busy mums who need to keep up with children who are on summer break.

LIME TCI’s customers can expect unbeatable value in the upcoming offers from LIME as demonstrated with the Unlimited Talk and Text plan.

Customers will not have to worry about activating the new plan each week, it will be renewed automatically and there will be options available in case customers want to opt out of the weekly automatic renewal.

Ms. Palmer said: “I am excited about the upcoming months and the new propositions we intend to make available to customers.

“LIME is determined to deliver great value to the people in Turks and Caicos Islands.”

22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Body Show announces RTC and online winners VOTING in The Body Show’s popular online contests has ceased and the public has selected their favourite contenders for the RTC Viewers Choice, Facebook Like and Share and the Instagram Awards.

Reonardo Harvey and Mauqueita Carter topped the boards to win the RTC Viewers Choice Awards, while Nicola Jentgen and Jeritt Williams took the win in the online polls for Facebook Like and Share and Instagram Awards.

Harvey and Carter will both receive a RTC Viewers Choice Award plaque that will feature their winning photo and a gift certificate to Spa Sanay located at The Alexandra resort.

For their win, Jentgen and Williams will receive spa treatments

courtesy of the Spa at Regent Palms resort and Anani Spa at the Grace Bay Club respectively.

For the contest, Radio Turks and Caicos (RTC) created an online voters’ poll featuring The Body Show: Miss Body Beautiful and Mr Best Body Contestants.

In real time, each visitor saw how many votes that that contestant had received, along with the percentage points.

The social media winners were determined from a combination of three albums - Facebook’s ‘Like and Share me on Facebook and Instagram’, ‘RTC Viewer’s Choice Awards poll starts today’, and ‘Got Body’ - along with the scores added from the Instagram profile.

The scores from the online polls

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Reonardo Harvey and Mauqueita Carter top the charts in the RTC Viewers’ Choice Awards

Nicola Jentgen and Jeritt Williams take the lead in the online polls for Facebook Like and Share and Instagram Awards

will not form part of the scores going towards choosing the Miss Body Beautiful or Mr Best Body winners.

In the competition on July 27, contestants will be judged in three categories: Introduction, Sportswear and Swimwear.

The Body Show competitions will take place at Brayton Hall, Venetian Road, Providenciales with the top two contestants, Miss Body Beautiful and Mr Best Body, receiving cash prizes, LIME advertisement campaigns, cellular phones with

plans and consolation prizes.

For more information residents can contact Courtney Robinson in Providenciales on 232-6796, Kereitta Simpson in Grand Turk on 241-3989 or email thebodyshowtci@gmail. com.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

RBC Royal Bank has recently received a number of queries from clients and the general public as it relates to our operations in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

We wish to advise that RBC is very committed to being a part of the Turks and Caicos community. We value our operations here and the team of 14 employees who are an integral part of our success in Turks and Caicos over the past five years.

RBC has a century long history of good governance and commitment to the Caribbean region. We are a responsible financial institution committed to doing

what is right to safeguard our bank, our clients’ interest and our employee’s rights.

Integrity, safety and soundness are the hallmarks of our business.

As a part of Caribbean Banking, RBC, we are the 2nd largest bank by assets in the English-speaking Caribbean, backed by close to 6,400 employees proudly serving more than 1 million clients in 20 countries and territories.

We continue to be strengthened by the market leadership of our parent, Royal Bank of Canada – one of Canada’s largest banks by assets and market capitalisation, and the 11th largest bank in the world,

with approximately 80,000 full and parttime employees who serve more than 15 million personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients through offices in Canada, the U.S. and 49 countries We are pleased to announce that we will be relocating our branch at Normandy House, Centre Mews, Providenciales to new premises on the ground floor, Raleigh House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales this Summer.

RBC has invested $800,000.00 in this new facility and looks forward to providing continued quality service to the Turks and Caicos Islands from our new location.

PAID ADVERTORIAL

RBC Royal Bank commited to TCI

24 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Youth basketball camp ends with championship game

BY DAISY HANDFIELD BASKETBALL lovers in the Turks and Caicos Islands had the opportunity to take part in a one week summer basketball camp at the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre in Providenciales.

The camp ran from July 15 to 20, ending with a championship game among the teen players.

Apart from giving the youngsters something to engage in over the summer, they also had the opportunity to enhance their gaming skills.

The Weekly News had a chance to catch up with Florida coach and basketball player, Jarett Forbes, who has more than 10 years of basketball experience under his belt.

He said: “This was a great opportunity to come and help out with the youth camp this year.

“I was delighted to be a part of this development in the country and the kids are doing a great job.

“Today [July 20] is championship Saturday and based on the competition we’ve had throughout the week, we’re going to narrow it down and claim some champions.

“The champs will be declared in the various skills sets as well as team champions.”

Forbes played basketball here in

the TCI when he was younger, also being fortunate enough to play on the junior nationals and the senior nationals, and then moving on to coaching basketball in Florida.

The professional basketball player explained the objective of the camp.

“I think it is going to be very beneficial; our goal is to give the kids the various skills sets and fundamental basketball skills to enhance their game on their own time.

“We want to introduce them to the material, so now it is up to them to go home and put in the work.”

Present at the game also was one of the main sponsors and owner of PTS Equipment Rentals, Belinda Martin, who noted that to her this investment was a very beneficial one.

She said: “We feel that the training of the youngsters in a sport is going to help them in the future, it benefits them in major jobs and any sports events when they get older.”

A number of the youngsters were a bit shy but Delano Riley did not hesitate to express his passion for basketball.

He said: “I feel good, we’ve been playing in teams and our team has been winning a lot.

“We are doing the championship right now so I am feeling good about it and I believe that we can win.”

Students practice on the court for championship game

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Josey Kiel and the Tiger Shark

By Candy Herwin

FOR centuries the Bermudans came to rake salt in the Turks islands and sometimes the notorious sloops when approaching land, would hoist a white flag with a red cross called the “SawedStone-Jack” which alerted the Turks Islanders to the fact that construction material was aboard particularly cedar wood, sawn stone and lime.

It is quite possible that Bermudan born Mr. Kiel Senior arrived on one of these boats in the late 1800s and settled on the island of Grand Turk, where he worked for the Gibbs family, prominent salt merchants who owned ponds on the East side of Palm Grove.

His son, Josey Kiel, who lived to the ripe old age of 109 years recalled that the very first job of his father was to sleep at night on top of bushel bags full of money for there were no banks. “He was something like a modern day security guard,” Josey laughed.

As a young boy Josey was

sent to Salt Cay to live with his aunt, Margaret Goode in the opulent Government House on the South end near the cricket field and it was during these days that Josey learnt to fish. His favorite pastime was to sneak off and explore the South and East Creek and fish in the Blue Hole for Shackbar, Barracuda and Grey Snapper”.

The best bait, "Joseyreminisced,” were small Shiny Sheds and Bay Sprouts, little white crabs, which were the best for catching bonefish.

He remembers running down plenty of Cowfish in the Creek, "The best way to clean them," he said, "Was to chop the three sides off so you could get the meat out, just as good as ever and then you can hash it, you can boil it, you can fry it and the liver does be good.”

As boys they would play with Bistermares they would find lying in the shallow grassy waters.

He explained that they were: "Black and round and when you hold them in your hand one end does spout water.

We call them seacocks!"

"Salt Cay people don't eat

Nurse Shark," Josey chuckled, "Because they make you sleepy. Sometimes big sharks fall asleep and you can go out

and tie them down and then we could skin 'em and preserve 'em in some sort of fashion.

Then us old time people would make sharkskin shoes.”

Mr. Kiel became a wellknown fisherman, bringing home his daily catch of Conch, Slang Dangs, Tangs and Squarrel fish, which he would sell, on the bundle. Mr.

Kiel warned that you had to watch out for the Squarrel Fish because they have stickers on their head. "Cut you quick as a wink!”

It reminded him of the time he was out fishing in his skip boat over by Little Cay and he caught the biggest shark ever.

“The shark struggled for

a lifetime and when I finally hauled it in, the monster bit my hand and as quick as a blink, the boat was covered in blood. I was very lucky," Josey declared, "Cos if it wasn't for Dr. Martin who had just come back from the wars and had plenty of practice stitching people up, I might be with my Heavenly Father right now!”

Lady Gaga top earning celebrity under 30, says Forbes THE singer made an estimated $80 million (£52 million) in the last 12 months, despite cancelling part of her tour to have hip surgery.

Last year she was ranked at number four, while Taylor Swift, who topped the poll in 2012, has dropped to third place with $55m (£36m).

Justin Bieber is in second place again this year with $58m (£38m).

The Forbes website claims that Lady Gaga would have earned even more had she not had to cancel part of her world tour in February.

She recently announced her next album, Artpop, would be released in November with a single due out on 19 August.

To make the list Forbes estimated the entertainmentrelated income of celebrities between June 2012 and June 2013 by talking to agents, managers, producers and executives.

The other artists in the top five are Calvin Harris with $46m (£30m) and Rihanna, who earned $43m (£28m).

Lady Gaga is the top earning celebrity under 30 years old, according to Forbes magazine.

Adele, who made the list for the first time last year, was ranked number eight making an estimated $25m (£16m).

Earlier this year the British musician won an Oscar for the James Bond theme Skyfall.

Star of The Hunger Games, Jennifer Lawrence, is the

highest entry on the list not to work in the music industry.

She placed at number seven, with earnings of $26m (£17m).

Completing the top 10 are Twilight co-stars Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner who both made $22m (£14m).

(BBC)

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

One of the top executives of AEG Live John Meglin does not believe that Michael Jackson was the biggest entertainment artiste ever. He felt that, if pitted against Jackson, Celine Dion was bigger.

AEG Live exec: ‘Celine Dion’s bigger than MJ’ A TOP executive with AEG Live insists Celine Dion is a “bigger” artist than Michael Jackson.

John Meglin, testifying Wednesday at the wrongful death trial of AEG Live, also downplayed how many tickets Jackson could have sold if he had not died while preparing for his comeback concerts.

AEG Live lawyers are challenging an entertainment expert hired by Jackson lawyers who estimated the King of Pop would have earned $1.5 billion touring the world before his 66th birthday had he not died from an overdose of a surgical anesthetic at age 50.

Michael Jackson’s mother and three children contend the company is liable for damages because it hired, retained or supervised the doctor convicted of involuntary manslaughter in his death.

If jurors agree, they could then use estimates of Jackson’s lost earnings as a guide to determine how much AEG Live -- the promoter and producer of his “This Is It” tour -must pay the Jacksons in damages.

AEG Live lawyers argue that Jackson -- not its executives -- chose and controlled Dr. Conrad Murray, the doctor who signed a $150,000 a month contract with the company to serve as Jackson’s doctor for the tour. AEG Live executives never signed the contract, which Murray returned to them just hours before Jackson’s death.

A nurse anesthetist will testify Thursday about administering anesthesia to Jackson during a medical procedure. He will be the

first of what AEG Live lead lawyer Marvin Putnam said would be a parade of “many, many” medical professionals who treated Jackson.

The company will try to prove that Jackson was a secretive drug addict, which prevented promoters from knowing about the dangers he faced under Murray’s care.

Meglin, who has been a concert promoter since the 1970s, is the CEO of Concerts West, the division of AEG Live that was in charge of Michael Jackson’s tour. He was the first witness called as the company began presenting its defense in the 13th week of the trial.

Much of his testimony was focused on attacking the analysis of certified public accountant Arthur Erk, who testified last week that he was “reasonably certain” that Jackson would have performed 260 shows around the world as part of his “This Is It” tour. He would have earned $890 million over the three years of concerts in Europe, Asia, South America, North America and Australia, Erk said.

Jackson would have earned at least $1.5 billion from touring, endorsements and sponsorships had he lived to age 66, Erk said.

Erk’s analysis suggested Jackson would stage many of his shows in large stadiums, with more than 90,000 fans buying tickets to many of the concerts. But Meglin testified that his experience told him that no stadiums would seat that many people for Jackson’s kind of show.

The Erk estimates were inflated by about 30%, Meglin testified.

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Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Work permit holders to get 10 years in the Cayman Islands The PPM administration is planning to move quickly on major changes to the immigration law and policies, as promised during the election campaign. The government is abolishing the key employee status, enabling all work permit holders to stay in the Cayman Islands for up to ten years and apply for permanent residency after eight. Cabinet has agreed that these major changes to the legislation will be implemented in two phases. Phase One will include extending the term limit for work permit holders to ten years, the removal of ‘key employee’ and amending the requirements for permanent residence, which will be scheduled to take effect by the end of October.

The PPM had promised some time ago that, if elected, they would drop the seven year term limit and the associated key employee and make the PR application the place where government will decide who should stay or go. In his role as opposition leader, the now premier, Alden McLaughlin, had spoken about the need to ensure different types of people got to stay in Cayman and not just those from the financial services sector.

In a release from the new home affairs ministry at the weekend,

officials explained that Phase Two will be a full scale review of the work permit system, with the intention of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the process.

Following through on the commitments made in the Progressives’ Manifesto and taking into account the recommendations of the Term Limit Review Committee, officials said that Cabinet had agreed to extend the length of time that a worker may remain in the Islands on a work permit from seven to ten years.

“At the same time the key employee aspect of the term limit policy will be abolished and all work permit holders who have resided here for at least eight years will become eligible to apply for permanent residence,” the release stated.

Term Limit Exemption Permit holders will be allowed to return to an ordinary work permit up to their ten years and apply for PR. As a result of the increase in the number of people who will be able to apply for PR, the home affairs ministry is reviewing how PR is granted. It will focus on redefining the assessment criteria to align with the government’s economic, cultural and social objectives.

“The aim is to ensure persons

granted Permanent Residence are drawn from a diverse cross-section of our society and are also assets to the community,” the officials stated.

The new criteria will also take into account the impact of removing the initial filter of key employee and will speed up the appeals process by removing as quickly as possible those without merit.

In the second phase, government will tackle the even bigger issue of processing work permits to “reduce bureaucracy and eliminate the current system of boards and the way work permits are processed to ensure Caymanians are given the opportunity to participate fully in the local economy.

“With over 20,000 work permit holders in Cayman’s workforce, coupled with over 1,500 Caymanians registered as unemployed, the processing of work permit applications is critically important to Cayman’s economic and social fortunes. The system must be fair, reliable, efficient and transparent,” the ministry officials stated.

The committee that will review the entire WP process will include members of the business community and is expected to submit recommendations for legislation and polices by January. (CNS)

Barbados considering credit vouchers for some British passengers BARBADOS is considering offering a credit voucher against the cost of the British Air Passenger Duty, according to Tourism Minister Richard Sealy.

The credit voucher would apply to British tourists who book a stay of at least two weeks, according to Sealy.

The plan to introduce the voucher is part of a 10-point plan to boost the tourism sector in the country.

Sealy said it was one of several voucher ides that would “draw [results] immediately,” along with credits for energy costs for tourism and hospitality-related entities.

The Air Passenger Duty, which is levied on all flights originating in the United Kingdom, has led to stern opposition from the Caribbean, which charges that it indiscriminately calculates the taxes on trips to the region.

Sealy said the APD was one of the major concerns highlighted by hotel property owners in the country.

Earlier this year, the tax rose to $126 per person on a given economyclass flight to the Caribbean.

Caribbean high commissioners in the UK are readying to begin a renewed lobby against the tax, using about $63,000 in funding for a public awareness campaign. (Carib Journal)

The APD vouchers plan is a part of a 10-point plan to boost the tourism sector in Barbados.

The demonstration was organised by several religious groups, including one calling itself the Haitian Coalition of Religious and Moral Organisations.

Protesters threaten to burn down parliament if gay marriage legalised in Haiti ORGANISERS say they are pleased with the turnout on Friday as more than 1,000 people took to the streets here to protest homosexuality and a proposal to legalise gay marriage in Haiti.

The protesters carried anti-gay placards and chanted songs in which they threatened to burn down parliament if its members make same-sex marriage legal.

A Haitian gay rights group has said it plans to submit a proposal allowing homosexuals to wed, but a coalition of religious groups said it opposed recent laws in other countries supporting gay

marriage.

The demonstration was organised by several religious groups, including one calling itself the Haitian Coalition of Religious and Moral Organisations.

It came 48 hours after watchdog groups held a news conference to condemn what they say is an increase in threats against homosexuals in the country.

Gay rights groups in Haiti say that members of the country’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community often don’t report rights violations to authorities out of fear of reprisal.(CMC)

Bodies discovered on Bahamian beach THE police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of eight bodies on the beach in Grand Bahama early Saturday.

They initially found six bodies, including that of a child, on a beach at Holmes Rock. Shortly after, two more bodies were discovered near a sunken boat, half-a-mile from shore.

According to the police, it’s believed that all eight were illegal immigrants who were trying to make their way to the United States.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Hulan Hanna said further checks were carried out along the shoreline and at sea to ensure that there were no other bodies.

“We got the assistance of the Americans and they took us about a half mile from the shore, and we were able to see a boat submerged in the water. Outside of the boat, two bodies were seen on the floor of the sea.”

He said assistance was being

sought to refloat the boat as additional bodies could be inside.

“We are hoping that our regional and international connections will help us determine who these people are” Hanna appealed to the public to contact the police if they knew anyone, particularly from the area, who has been missing.

He said the identities of the victims were not known and added that autopsies would be performed to determine the cause of death.

“We don’t know the nationalities of the victims definitively, but again, the enormity of what we met here cannot be emphasized enough….please for God’s sake and listen to us and do not do it to put your life at risk and the greater tragedy is the fact there is a child who has no more chance at life because somebody took a decision to have the child accompany them to this ill-fated journey,” Hanna said.(CMC)

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Regional News

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Bahamas: Wife killed defence force marine

The Prime Minister told the weekend convention that players in the tourism industry must look at “the bigger picture” and concentrate efforts on discovering what today’s traveller considers value for money.

St Lucia PM urges hoteliers to look at “the bigger picture” PRIME Minister Kenny Anthony has called on hoteliers to redefine their approach to the industry and do more to improve quality and mutually beneficial partnerships.

Addressing the 49th annual general meeting of the St Lucia Hotels and Tourism Association, the Prime Minister said developed countries such as the United States and Europe, which are major source markets for the industry, are currently jostling for number one status as visitor magnets.

“The economic benefits of travel and tourism are immense and no country can afford to ignore this fact in their future developmental planning. Nowhere in the region has escaped the volatility of investment in the tourism sector. Hotels and resorts in the Bahamas, Jamaica, Barbados, Antigua, and Cayman have been bought and sold as a result of the

biggest financial crisis since the Great Depression of the 1930s,” he said.

The Prime Minister told the weekend convention that players in the tourism industry must look at “the bigger picture” and concentrate efforts on discovering what today’s traveller considers value for money.

He said future development in the industry must concentrate on finer details: “I believe if we place a critical eye on the details, on quality, on excellence, on being better than any other, then there is no doubt that we will see growth--that our occupancy rates will be high, that visitor spending will go up, that our profit margins will look a lot healthier than they might be now.”

However he acknowledged this must be done “within the context of industry standards and best practice, while creating a unique experience.”

MIKIKO Black was found guilty of manslaughter on Tuesday in the fatal shooting of her Defence Force husband in the Bahamas.

Jurors ruled out the murder charge in a unanimous not guilty vote. However, they found the 25-year-old accused guilty of manslaughter by reason of provocation after three hours of deliberation.

The manslaughter verdict was 11 to 1.

Defence attorney Moses Bain requested a probational report, which was granted by Supreme Court Justice Vera Watkins.

Black was tearful in the prisoner’s dock as she waited for the verdict. She broke down in tears on hearing the jury’s decision, along with family members and friends in the court room.

As she was escorted in handcuffs for remand at Her Majesty’s Prison, weeping relatives hugged her as she passed.

Maeronie Black, the deceased’s mother, said: “Whatever it is I understand it’s God who reigns in everything and God is above.”

She added: “Sometimes in that court I think they were talking about a different person, but at the end of the day there is a God above and whatever you do in life, you have to pay for it.”

Police found the body of the 27-year-old Leonardo Black with gunshot wounds to the left side of the face.

PUBLIC NOTICE BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance)

Take Notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to JEANNE MARIE TALBOT a national of Haiti by virtue of marriage to a Belonger.

RIC TODD

The accused was arraigned four days after the incident before Chief Magistrate Roger Gomez.

She was not required to enter a plea to the charge.

Anthony Delaney and Maria Zancolla prosecuted the case, which began on July 1.

Black testified that before the April 19, 2010 incident, she and her husband had been evicted from three apartments because of the domestic disputes and fights between them.

She said on the day in question, she and her husband got into an argument that turned physical. The accused also said that the marine threatened to leave her, driving away from their Boil Fish Drive and Adderley Terrace apartment before returning moments later for his clothes.

While in the living room, both

Mikiko Black was found guilty of manslaughter, in the death of her husband.

Blacks reached for the weapon on the stand, the accused said, and she only recalled a shot going off and then her husband falling to the floor.

Outside the courtroom, Mr Delaney said: “I’m always satisfied with the jury’s verdict,

they have spoken. They found her not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter and the evidence of the case as far as I’m concerned bears that out.” Black will return before Justice Watkins for sentencing on October 4. (Tribune242)

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World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Royal baby named Prince George Alexander Louis THE bookies were right: He Who Had Not Been Named is now Prince George. His Royal Highness Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge, to be exact.

On Wednesday, that regal name was bestowed on Britain’s 2-dayold royal baby by his parents, Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, the former Kate Middleton. Although the thoroughly modern royal couple chose a thoroughly modern way to distribute the news — via Twitter — “Prince George” is as old-school as it gets.

No fewer than six British kings have borne the name “George”; in addition, its personal symbolism for William made it an obvious pick for months in betting pools across the country. The last King George was George VI, William’s greatgrandfather, whose valiant battle with a speech impediment when he inherited the throne after his brother’s abdication was dramatized in the Oscar-winning film “The King’s Speech.”

And let’s face it. “Charming” was probably never really in the mix.

“It’s a strong name. ‘Prince George of Cambridge’ sounds good, very resonant with the queen’s family,” said Charles Kidd, editor of Debrett’s Peerage & Baronetage.

The length of the name, however, appeared to be something of a nod to the 21st century — despite the “HRH” in front of it. Four names,

Eyewitness: “There were people lying everywhere”

78 dead after train derails, splits apart in Spain

Prince Williams and Dutchess of Cambridge Catherine, the former Kate Middleton, celebrated the arrival of Price George Alexander Louis this week.

not three, Kidd said, have “become the standard norm for members of the royal family in recent generations.” William has four, as does his father, Prince Charles. So by royal standards, “George Alexander Louis” is relatively concise.

“Louis,” royal-watchers said, was picked at least in part as a tribute to Louis Mountbatten, Charles’s beloved

great-uncle, who was killed when an Irish Republican Army bomb blew up his boat in 1979. “Louis” is also one of William’s names.

The BBC speculated that “Alexander” may have been a preference on the Middleton side. It is also common in Scotland, which had three medieval kings named Alexander.

Call to ban smoking on beaches stirs French A CALL by France’s health minister for local authorities to ban smoking in parks and on beaches has sparked debate as a heat wave grips the country.

Marisol Touraine told the Journal du Dimanche newspaper she wanted to see more tobacco-free zones, to protect children’s health.

The Socialist minister said she hoped smoking would also be banned outside schools and on university campuses.

Smoke-free beaches have appeared in some French resorts in recent years.

The town of La Ciotat, near Marseille on the Mediterranean coast, was among the first to create such a beach in 2011, introducing a fine of 38 euros (£33; $50) for offenders.

Similar steps have been taken elsewhere in the world, notably in New York City, which prohibited smoking on beaches and in parks the same year.

Ms Touraine said: “Is it normal for mothers, fathers or nannies to smoke in a public park where children play?

I don’t think so. Tobacco kills...”

Parisians have been relaxing on temporary beaches along the Seine

Her remarks were picked up by other newspapers, generating lively debates online.

Many readers welcomed the minister’s proposal, with comments like “Anything that makes smokers see sense is good”, but some accused the government of seeking to encroach on civil liberties.

One reader of Le Figaro, named only as Morpain, joked in an open

letter to Ms Touraine that, given the continuing issue of mortality in the French population, she should ban childbirth in France “until the problem of eternal life is solved by scientific means”.

A reporter for La Croix newspaper who visited La Ciotat’s smoke-free Lumiere Beach found evidence that the ban was popular with smokers and non-smokers alike.

THE train races into view, and in the space of a heartbeat, the cars derail and crash into a wall of concrete, flipping onto their sides and skidding along the track with terrifying speed and force.

Security footage shows the horror of the moment an express train derailed as it hurtled around a curve in northwestern Spain on Wednesday, killing at least 78 people and injuring 178, local officials said.

Flames burst out of one train car as another car was snapped in half after the crash. Rescue crews and fellow passengers pulled bodies through broken windows and pried open doors as stunned survivors looked on.

Investigations into the cause of the crash continue, but suggestions that the train was traveling too fast appear to be gaining weight.

The train driver is being questioned by police and under formal investigation, said María

Pardo Rios, a spokeswoman for the Galicia regional supreme court. “He is not being charged by a judge at the moment -- it is all at a police level,” she said.

Ninety-five of the 178 injured are still hospitalized, the local government’s official Twitter account said. Thirty-two adults and four children are in critical condition.

At least 73 people died at the scene and the others at the hospital, Rios said. In Spain, judges typically record deaths that take place outside of hospitals.

Judicial teams are still at the crash site and expect to find more bodies, she told CNN on Thursday morning.

At least five Americans were injured in the crash, a U.S. State Department official said Thursday.

The U.S. Embassy in Madrid is trying to determine the exact number.

“At this time, we have not received any reports of U.S. citizen deaths,” the official said.

Former President George H. W. Bush shaves head bald to support 2-year-old boy with leukemia FORMER President George H. W. Bush shaved his head Wednesday as a show of solidarity with a 2-yearold-boy who is battling leukemia.

The boy, named Patrick, is the son of one of the members of Bush’s security detail. He had lost most of his hair due to his cancer treatments, a Bush spokesman said.

Bush, 89, got the idea to shave his head to show his support after he noticed that several members of his Secret Service detail, known as the Bush Protective Division, had also shaved their heads in solidarity with Patrick.

A Bush spokesman also said that the former president had helped launch a website, www.patrickspals. org, to assist with Patrick’s medical costs.

The cause for Bush’s act is one close to his heart. The nation’s 41st president and his wife Barbara Bush lost a daughter, Pauline, to leukemia in 1953, when she was just 4 years old.

Former President George H. W. Bush shaved his head this week to show solidarity with Patrick, the son of a member of his security detail who’s battling cancer.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cyclist pleads guilty to vehicular manslaughter in groundbreaking case Warning to all bicyclists: The rules of the road apply to you, too.

A groundbreaking guilty plea in San Francisco saw a cyclist take accountability for plowing into and killing a pedestrian crossing the street.

Chris Bucchere, 37, will perform 1,000 hours of community service and serve three years of probation for committing felony vehicular manslaughter in the March, 29, 2012 crash, ABC News reported.

It is believed to be the first time a bicyclist was convicted of the charge.

Motorised vehicle drivers frequently face the charge if they kill someone while driving.

“Cyclists need to understand that they’re held accountable to the same standards anybody else operating any other type of vehicle and I believe we have achieved that in this case,” prosecutor George Gascon said at a press conference Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses and surveillance video showed Bucchere skipping two stop signs and racing to get through a red light when he plowed into Sutchi Hui, who was walking in a crosswalk with his wife. Witnesses said Bucchere was traveling about 32 miles per hour — more than the 25 mph speed limit for the road — when he directly hit the man walking in the busy intersection. The 71-year-old died four days later. His wife, who walked at his side, was unhurt.

“Our goal is to send a message to cyclists about safety,” Gascon said. “Just because you are riding a bicycle doesn’t mean all bets are off.

All of the rules of the road that apply to everyone else apply to you, too.”

Prosecutors contended Bucchere

Chris Bucchere was sentenced to 1,000 hours of community service and three years probation after plowing into 71-year-old Sutchi Hui. Bucchere was riding a bicycle at the time and speeding.

showed little remorse for the serious accident. Days after the crash, Bucchere posted on a bike blog, writing “I was already way too committed to stop.”

“I couldn’t see a line through the crowd and I couldn’t stop so I laid down and just plowed through the crowded crosswalk in the leastpopulated place I could find,” his post continued. “I hope he (Hui) ends up OK.” The family plans to sue Bucchere but did not press for jail time. In an interview shortly after the crash, Hui’s niece did want some sense of justice. Prosecutors on Tuesday said the plea did exactly that by holding Bucchere accountable.

“A person who did something wrong should also pay for it,” said Anna Chao, who has taken over running her late uncle’s travel agency. (NYdailynews)

Tunisian opposition assassinated TUNISIAN opposition politician Mohamed Brahmi has been shot dead outside his home in the capital, Tunis, officials say.

Mr Brahmi, 58, led the nationalist Movement of the People party.

It is the second time an opposition party leader has been killed this year.

In February, prominent secular politician Chokri Belaid was also shot outside his house in Tunis. His murder sparked protests and forced Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali to resign.

An uprising in Tunisia in late 2010 kick-started a series of revolutions that spread through the Middle East and became known as the Arab Spring.

‘COWARDLY CRIME’ Gunmen on a motorbike shot Mr Brahmi in front of his wife and daughter on Thursday morning, Movement of the People party officials said.

Mohamed Brahmi was a vocal critic of the ruling Islamist Ennahda party.

Local media said the assailants fired 11 bullets at the politician. It is not known yet who is behind the attack.

Large crowds have gathered outside the Ministry of Interior in Tunis in protest over the killing.

(BBC)

31

Pope in Brazil warns against legalising drugs POPE Francis entered political waters on Wednesday with a sharply worded condemnation of moves to legalise drug use.

His comments, which were made during a visit to a rehabilitation centre in Brazil, run counter to a growing movement in Latin America to liberalise sales of marijuana and other narcotics following decades of a murderous and largely ineffectual war against drugs in the region.

“A reduction in the spread and influence of drug addiction will not be achieved by a liberalisation of drug use, as is currently being proposed in various parts of Latin America,” the pontiff said. “Rather it is necessary to confront the problems underlying the use of these drugs, by promoting greater justice, educating young people in the values that build up life in society, accompanying those in difficulty and giving them hope for the future.”

The pope was visiting the St Francis of Assisi hospital – named after the saint whose name the Argentine adopted as pontiff – in Rio de Janeiro on his first full day of activities since arriving in Brazil.

After listening to stories of addicts undergoing treatment, Francis launched an uncompromising attack on the “dealers of death” who sell drugs. “The scourge of drugtrafficking that favours violence and sows the seeds of suffering and death requires of society as a whole an act of courage,” he said.

The pope’s words cut to the heart of one of the biggest problems facing Latin America, a region that supplies all of the world’s cocaine and has long suffered murderous conflicts between rival trafficking gangs and anti-narcotics security forces.

Government leaders in several countries including Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador and Guatemala have appealed for a softer line on drugs, arguing that the current tough policy has failed to reduce demand.

Next mont, Uruguay’s Congress will note on a proposal to decriminalise sales of marijuana in a move that the country’s president, Jose Mujica, says is aimed at undermining illegal traffickers.

Francis, however, said the treatment hospital was a “shrine to human suffering” that emphasised the need to confront the scourge of drugs through education, justice and stronger social values.

His message may well be underlined on Thursday when the pope is due visit a favela slum that was recently notorious for drug addiction and gang battles.

Earlier on Wednesday Francis urged Catholics to resist the “ephemeral idols” of money, power, success and pleasure during his first mass in Brazil. He made no direct mention of the inequality

Pope Francis warns that legalising drugs would not solve the problem.

and corruption that have sparked nationwide protests.

In a sermon to a congregation of thousands at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida, the pontiff appealed to the faithful to focus on non-material values of spiritualism, generosity, solidarity and perseverance.

“Let us never lose hope! Let us never allow it to die in our hearts!” the pope said in a message that appeared to be aimed at the widespread consumerism that the Vatican has blamed for a decline in spirituality, rather than the specific individuals and institutions targeted by demonstrators in recent weeks.

Francis arrived in a khakicoloured military helicopter and boarded an open-top popemobile to cheers from a crowd of tens of thousands who braved winter rains for several hours so they could watch on two giant screens outside the basilica. Flanked by a dozen security officials on the short journey from the helipad, the pope experienced no repeat of the chaotic scenes during his arrival on Monday, when his vehicle took a wrong turn and was held up by crowds who pressed up against his car. Rain also appeared to have dampened some of the enthusiasm. The crowds – many carrying umbrellas – were a dozen or so deep and kept at a distance by security barriers.

Vatican officials say the pontiff asked for the mass at the basilica, which is 160 miles (260km) from his base in Rio, to be added to his schedule. Built in 1955 with a capacity of 40,000, the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida – the principal patroness of Brazil and a unifying figure for many in the nation’s Catholic Church. It is the site of pilgrimage for millions every year who flock to see an apparently dark-skinned statue of the Virgin Mary which, myth has it, was found in two parts by fishermen in 1717.

Francis appeared moved to tears as he said a prayer before the statue.

He had visited the site five years earlier at a conference of bishops which helped to raise his standing in the church.

Underscoring the emphasis on humility, hope and simplicity that have become central themes of his papacy, Francis warned that almost everyone was attracted to wealth and pleasure.

“Often a growing sense of loneliness and emptiness in the hearts of many people leads them to seek satisfaction in these ephemeral idols,” he said, speaking in Portuguese from a modern marble pulpit.

Professor Padre Erico Hammes of the Pontifícia Universidade of Rio Grande do Sul said Francis’s direct and simple speaking style was in marked contrast to the baroque language of his two predecessors.

“Pope Francis is taking a populist approach to religion, successfully bringing everyday experience back into the limelight of Catholicism,” Hammes said.

Despite concerns from the Brazilian hosts, the pope insisted that his trip should go ahead largely as planned with an open-top – rather than a bulletproof – popemobile and a stop at a favela that was until recently notorious for conflicts between rival gangs. On Wednesday afternoon he was due to visit a drug rehabilitation centre.

This visit comes during a nationwide wave of social protests.

A small explosive device was found in Aparecida on Sunday but police and the Vatican said it was unlikely to have constituted a threat to the pope or visiting pilgrims. After the pontiff’s arrival in Rio de Janeiro on Monday violent clashes broke out between demonstrators and riot police, who used rubber bullets, teargas and water cannon to disperse crowds close to where the pope had been meeting the country’s president, Dilma Rousseff. (Guardian)

32

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brama Kumaris

FOR RENT

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

contact: 946-4664

July 27 - August 2, 2013

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

ALVERIA DUNCOMBE Is looking for a

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

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

FOR SALE

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

Contact: 649-243-6877

8897

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

AGNES SWANN NORTH CAICOS

is looking for 6

8922

Domestic Worker

Must be willing to work 5 days per week and when called upon on holidays and weekends.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Fax: 946-4564

CAICOS LIVE ABOARD DIVING LTD.

CHEF

• Through knowledge of food products, standards, recipes and proper preparation • Good communication skills, both verbal and written • Excellent computer skills • Must be able to swim • Minimum of 5 years experience working as a chef in a 5 star rated hotel • Must be prepared to work long hours including weekends and holidays and to live onboard the vessel • Starting salary $400 per week

Please email resume to: tcaggressor@express.tc or telephone: 649-342-3052 8914

PRICE SLASHED FOR QUICK SALE

$180,000 CASH! House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY

Waitress

Minister To work 5 days

Labourer

contact: 241-0611

contact: 243-6890

Is looking for a

8876

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact: 246-4769

Is looking for a

CHURCH OF GOD

G-SPOT BAR

BLUE PARROT Is looking for a

LaboUrers To work 5 days

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

8887

Is looking for a

per week. Salary negotiable.

8867

July 27 - August 2, 2013

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 243-4284

8866

Amazing Value!

Lot for Sale

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o.

Call 231-3788

PRICE SLASHED $175,000

34 CLASSIFIEDS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EXECUTIVE TOURS LTD

Excellent and exciting opportunity for a

customer focused front of house specialist This job is aimed at “you” we want you to join our team and become a part of the future of this motivated company, love a challenge, love meeting people, have that edge that makes the difference, is customer service your thing?

Why not come and share your wealth of experience with us and benefit from working for a great forward thinking company.

We offer a competitive salary and the chance to move forward with your career and have fun along the way.

Please forward your resume, but only if you really are up for the challenge and are not scared of hard work, excitement and occasional long hours.

caribbeancruisin@gmail.com

8909

Airport Road, Providenciales Telephone: 946-4524

DOMESTIC WORKER & BUS DRIVER • Salary starts at $5.00 per hour.

• Must hold a valid driver's licence.

• Must have a clean police record.

• Must be willing to work shifts.

• Only Turks Islanders need apply.

8872

CAICOS LIVE ABOARD DIVING LTD.

P & D GENERAL CLEANING

OPEN WATER SCUBA DIVING INSTRUCTOR/ ENGINEER

• Open Water Scuba Diving Instructor valid Padi/ SSI/ TDL Membership and liability insurance • Minimum of 5 specialty rating • Working knowledge of boat engines/mechanics • Working knowledge of underwater camera/videos and editing • Computer literate

Is looking for the following persons:

• STCW95 complaint • Be prepared to work long hours including weekends and holidays and to live onboard the vessel • Experience in the hospitality industry • Starting salary is $400 per week • Clean police record

8917

Is looking for a

Courier Caribbean Building Materials & Services Ltd. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Phone 649-941-3400 Fax 649-941-3401

Administrative Assistant Applicant will report to and assist the President and Vice President in all facets of the concrete company.

Applicant must have an Administrative Assistant Certificate. Applicant must have a minimum of 5 years experience in the concrete industry. Applicant must demonstrate professionalism, resourcefulness and independence with strong organizational, management priority setting and multitasking skills. Knowledge of a foreign language would be an asset.

Applicant must have a valid driver’s license.

Please reply with certificate, experience, and references to:

CBMS Ltd. 941-3400

Tireman/ Mechanic To work 6 days per week salary starting $6-$10.00 per hour.

LaboUrers To work 6 days

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 432-4440

Contact: 941-7886

R & S VARIETY STORE

SHAPHAN HINSON

8881

8230

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Contact: 241-5554 Taste of Italy is looking for a Kitchen Helper salary $5.00 per hour.

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

contact: 941-8010

Contact: 242-3403

8886

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

CBMS

OPEN TRAIL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Is looking for 2

Cleaners Store Labourers Manager Salary $5.50 per hour

Please send resumes to: tcaggressor@express.tc or telephone: 649-342-3052

contact: 331-1809

Is looking for a

Domestic Workers

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY

CONCIERGE PROVO

EXPRESS TIRE

8884

8865

Painter

To work 5 days per week salary $7.00 per hour. contact: 245-1811

8863

July 27 - August 2, 2013

E & V EQUIPMENT

AMG ELECTRICAL Is looking for a

Atlantic Consultancy Services is seeking on behalf of their clients the following:

Is seeking an

Operator/ Mechanic

Funeral Home Assistant Minimum requirements:

Must have basic knowledge with electrical terms and electrical parts salary $7.00 per hour.

• Operator must be able to operate, dozer, excavator, back hoe • Wages: $14.00 per hour • Working hours 7-3 Monday-Friday • Mechanic • Must know Cunnins and Cat engine • Wages: $550.00 per week

contact: 649-941-8388

Drop resume to 53 Williams Auditorium or call: 9441-8494/941-8495 8875

8918

Secretary

2 OPEN WATER SCUBA DIVING INSTRUCTOR @@Open water scuba diving instructor valid PADI/SSI/ TDL Membership and liability insurance @@Minimum of 5 specialty ratings @@Working knowledge of underwater camera/videos and editing @@Computer literate @@STCW95 complaint

@@Be prepared to work long hours including weekends and holidays and to live onboard the vessel @@Experience in the hospitality industry @@Staring salary $400.00 per week @@Clean police record @@BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

Please email resume to: tcaggressor@express.tc or telephone: 649-342-3052

Is seeking on behalf of their client Taylor's Clothing Store a

Sales Clerk Rate $6.00 per hour.

Turks Islanders only need apply.

Pool & Beach Attendant minimum requirements: • • • •

Friendly Ability to work in various weather conditions Physically fit Able to work on split shifts/flexible hours

Carpenter Island Furniture • Must have design experience Must be a college graduate Salary $300.00 per week

Turks & Caicos Islands only need apply via email: atlanticconsultancy@hotmail.com.

Only short listed applicant will be contacted.

8916

8871

DUNCANSON & CO.

THE WINE CELLAR

Barristers & Attorneys

Is seeking to employ a

Domestic Worker

• Must be willing to work 6 days per week • Must be trustworthy and reliable • Hours are: 8:00-4:00pm • Salary $5.00 per hour

Send resume to: 946-4871 or contact: 9464536 between the hours of 9:00am-3:00pm 8877

Required for luxurious villa in Providenciales

awareness of cost control and energy saving • Knowledge of spreadsheets would be an advantage fro accounting and record keeping purposes • Assist private chef with shopping and running errands as necessary • Understanding of the needs and requirements of demanding guests is of paramount importance • Clean drivers license is essential for running errands • This position reports directly to the Villa Manager • Remuneration • Salary $1,300-$1,500 a month

Interested applicant please email info@coralhouse.tc

West Bay Club:

Sales Manager

HOUSEKEEPER Relevant experience • This position requires a high level of relevant experience either within a five star hotel or private villa. A self motivated, highly service orientated individual who uses own initiative.

The candidate must have a good command of English and excellent communication skills and be prepared to work long hours, weekends and holidays • Summary of duties and responsibilities • Cleanliness of the villa so attention to detail is essential • Housekeeping responsibilities with an

• Embalming Assistance Preparing the dead for burial Body Removal • Some Administrative work • Flexible hours and on call at all times

Daniel Construction

CAICOS LIVE ABOARD DIVING LTD.

Atlantic Consultancy Services

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PUBLIC NOTICE DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys are pleased to announce the re-opening of our Leeward Highway Office for ongoing legal services to the public. We are located in our own building across the street from the Supreme Court complex, next door to the offices of TC Weekly News and between that and the St. Monica's Anglican Church.

We specialize in: • Civil Litigation (Particular competencies: Judicial Review and other claims against TCI Government/Departments, Mareva and other Injunctions, Land, Trust & Bank disputes) • Property Matters, Planning Department & Development Issues • Business Law • Immigration Telephone: (649) 941-4444 Telefax: (649) 941-4235 Cellphone: (649) 245-1314 email: berynd@yahoo.com DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

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

36 CLASSIFIEDS

CONTACT: LEWIS 232-7317

8853

Truck Drivers

Heavy duty equipment truck Contact Number

339-4719

Company: Direct Services ltd

MOTHER’S CLEANING SERVICES Is looking for 2

domestic workers Salary $5.00 per hour contact: 941-7886

ROSENTHAL GARDINER Is seeking a farmer to work in North Caicos to harvest crop, monitor crops as they grow in order to ensure that there are growing properly and keep surroundings clean. Working hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 649-246-4692

8913

HTL Harbour Transport Ltd. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Phone 649-941-3400 Fax 649-941-3401

Marine Supervisor Applicant must have 15 years of marine experience required for dredging and underwater marine maintenance and repair. Applicant must have excellent management and organizational skills. Applicant must be prepared to work long hours and weekends as required and to be on call for emergencies. Applicant must have a clean police record.

Please reply with certification and references to 941-5660

Bohio Dive Resort Is recruiting for the following position:

WATER SPORTS COORDINATOR & NIGHT AUDITOR The successful candidate must have

• Certification in Sage 50 Accounting Software in order to complete bookkeeping entries in the evenings • ability to plan & schedule scuba diving, boating excursions and water activities for both guests and cruise ship visitors • English and French required, Spanish an asset • Must be PADI Certified Open Water Diver and Boat Captain • Minimum 2 years living in a Caribbean setting • Work Schedule will include weekends, public holidays and most evenings • Monthly Wage: $1250.00 per month

Candidates should apply in writing including a cover letter, resume and references to: info@bohioresort.com

Caribbean Cruisin’ Ltd Needs a highly qualified and experienced

8229

LOCAL SAND Position DELIVERED Available TO YOUR SITE TURCK LOAD 21 TONS (16 YARDS) $60.00 PER TON BARGE LOAD 400 TONS (300 YARDS) $55.00 PER TON

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

8891

Captain with Mechanic skills • Applicant must possess valid a current STCW 95 and be certified as a TCI Captain. A minimum of 10 years proven experience as a Captain and an MCA Offshore Captains License would be of great benefit.

• The suitable candidate must also possess Marine Mechanic certification in diesel, gas, inboard & outboard engines, with a minimum of 10 years proven experience of maintenance and repair in all these classes.

• Candidate must also have extensive experience in boat maintenance and repair, fuel and waste systems, fiberglass, aluminum and electrical. Welding experience a distinct advantage.

• The successful candidate will be responsible for the ongoing maintenance & repair of our growing fleet of ferries and charter boats to a very high standard, as well as managing and training of our team of Captains and crew members.

• Salary will subject to experience and qualification.

• Applications should be accompanied with a copy of all qualification certification and a detailed account of work experience with references.

caribbeancruisin@gmail.com

8908

JOB VACANCY THE COMPANY

Circle Holdings Ltd owns the property formerly known as Third Turtle Inn and is in predevelopment stages of a luxury, hotel resort & marina comprising of 150+ rooms, 1,300ft of marina docking facilities and retail promenade, casino, conference centre, and ancillary hotel services and amenities.

The project is expected to start construction in 2014 and is now putting together a core team of world-class, talented professionals to successfully design, build, and oversee management of the property. Circle Holdings values strong performers that share the following characteristics: Be an entrepreneur and self-starter; Be a team player; Have the ambition to grow and the willingness to learn with his colleagues; Have a multicultural background and/or experience.

THE POSITION – LOCAL LIAISON OFFICER Job description Reporting directly to the Managing Partner and, at times, to the Board of Directors, the Local Liaison Officer would liaise with internal and local external stakeholders in: • Briefing the project on local sensitivities; • Establishing relations with key local contractors and service providers; • Facilitating discussions with relevant Governmental agencies and bodies and interest groups towards timely securing the relevant and appropriate approvals; • Ensuring the project meets and surpasses local legislations and requirements, from the design and construction standpoint; • Assisting overall on building a positive goodwill towards the project with the local community and ensuring the project is an employer of choice amongst the local hospitality workforce; • Reporting regularly on the several tasks under progress; • Assisting from time to time and as requested other roles and positions within the project.

Candidate The candidate must uphold the values of the development and the characteristics of the project.

In addition, the candidate must have: • Previous 5+ years experience working within local Governmental departments or bodies; • Exposure to best practices in hospitality or project management, including clear understanding of project management and business analysis approaches; • Strong communication skills, both oral and writing; • Strong sense of ownership and accountability for work; • Ability to deal with ambiguity and define approaches to bring un-focused issues to resolution; • Fluency with key MS Office tools; • 10+ years of experience; Bachelor's degree from four-year College or university.

Details • Employment would be done through a part-time consulting or service providing agreement.

Duration of 1 year, renewable if agreed by both parties; • Candidate must have evidence of holding relevant business license. Business license and other fees are expected to be covered by Candidate; • Remuneration primarily based on performance only. Targets set at commencement of work and reviewed regularly.

Belongers only need apply Candidates not meeting requirements may not be contacted Apply to hr@thirdturtle.com

July 27 - August 2, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JACQUELINE A. SMITH

MACKEY’S TIRE & CAR ACCESSORIES

is looking to fill the following positions:

seeks to employ a

Mechanic JOB OPPORTUNITIES Network Operations & Maintenance Manager

Contact: 941-4440 or 241-0054

The Network Operations Manager is responsible for the technical operations of the company, which includes the design, administration, and maintenance of the cellular and office networks.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, direction, and management for daily operations and ensure consistency with company’s business plan.

• Ensure that all aspects of network business operations are properly executed.

• Monitor network quality to ensure that performance and quality targets are met • Maintenance and upgrading of networks and ancillary equipment.

• Oversee all existing sites and new site acquisitions.

• Maintain and monitor the IT and back office systems

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 5-10 years of telecommunications operations experience, particularly in the wireless area.

• Ability to manage projects and staff • Experience with Nokia switching, IP based networks, Microwave and RF technology • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing

Chief Executive Officer The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for management of all functional areas including sales and marketing, finance, operations and engineering. The position reports to the Board of Directors.

Job Responsibilities • • • •

Work with Board to establish strategic and financial performance goals Set objectives for each functional area with measurable performance metrics Develop team capable of delivering world-class service and value to subscribers Maintain relationships with key stakeholders including government, key customers and partners • Establish Islandcom as a leading mobile telecommunications operator in the TCI

Required Qualifications & Skills

Ten years of executive experience in cellular telecommunications Demonstrated leadership skills and successful delivery of results that exceed budget Experience in building successful, high-performance cross functional teams University degree in business or engineering discipline Experience with mobile telephony products and services are a plus.

Compensation commensurate with qualifications and experience

Please submit all application to:

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Domestic Worker – $5.00 per hour – $5.00 per hour

Contact: 243-4214

8903

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

CAICOS LIVE ABOARD DIVING LTD.

STEWARD

• Must have open water scuba diving certification • Must have at least 2 years experience working on yacht • Good communication skills both verbal and written • Must be computer literate • Must be prepared to work long

hours including weekends and holidays and to live onboard the vessel • Experience in the hospitality industry is a must • Starting salary $400 per week • Clean police record

Belongers need only apply

Please email resumes to: tcaggressor@express.tc or telephone: 649-342-3052

NIB ADVERTISEMENT SEIZED ITEMS FOR SALE BY TCINIB

The following items are hereby offered for sale in an “as is” condition by the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board, Providenciales: 1 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab Truck which can be viewed outside the Provo NIB Office Monday thru Friday during the hours of 9 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Also: 1 32” Colby Flat Screen Television 2 25” Precision Flat Screen Television; and 1 Ranklin Chef Mini Refrigerator which can be viewed at the Provo NIB Office, Monday thru Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Persons interested in purchasing any of the items should submit a formal bid in a sealed envelope addressed to:

Deadline for submission of applications is August 30th, 2013 Islandcom Telecommunications Ltd. Graceway House, Unit A-108 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Fax: (649) 941-8199 Email: CV@islandcom.tc

Labourer – $5.00 per hour

8915

Compensation commensurate with qualifications and experience

• • • • •

Barber – $5.00 per hour

Hairbraider 8902

Islandcom, the exciting mobile phone provider in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is looking for high quality, motivated candidates for the following positions.

To work 6 days per week. Salary commensurate with experience.

Carpenter – $6.00 per hour

Ms. Rhesa Cartwright Deputy Director Corporate Services, NIB Providenciales 8919

to reach no later than Friday, August 2, 2013.

The National Insurance Board does not bind itself to accept the highest or any tender offer.

Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board 8894

38 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SALES FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd as Chargee pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance hereby gives Notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the following scheduled properties outside the offices of Miller Simons O’Sullivan, Second Floor, The Beatrice Butterfield Building, Butterfield Square, Providenciales at 10:00 a.m. on 9 August 2013.

1. Title 60002/192 North West & North Central, Providenciales, Registered Proprietor: Reginald and Telesha Pinder

This property is in phase two of the Priton affordable home residential estate and is located on Marble Drive. This property sits on a 0.25 acre parcel. Access is gained through the paved road which serves the sub-division leading to Millennium Highway.

The property is a Model B home that comprises of two bedrooms, two bathrooms with open plan kitchen and living space. External improvements include soft landscaping, boundary fencing to the east, south and north boundaries, gravel surface driveway and parking arranged at the front of the property.

2. Title No. 60101/21 K2&3, North West Point, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd.

Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens.

This unit has 1,572 square feet and is known as unit 102 in Building B1. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/ veranda and closet space.

3. Title No. 60101/21 K29 North West Point, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd.

Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens.

This unit has 1,572 square feet and is known as unit 102 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/ veranda and closet space.

4. Title No. 60101/21 K34, North West Point, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd.

Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens.

This unit has 1,572 square feet and is known as unit 109 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/ veranda and closet space.

5. Title No. 60101/21 K36, North West Point, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd.

Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens.

This unit has 2,223 square feet and is known as unit 201 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/ veranda and closet space.

6. Title No. 60101/21 K37, North West Point, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd.

Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens.

This unit has 1.556 square feet and is known as unit 203 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/ veranda and closet space.

7. Title No. 60905/211/K12 & K13 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales Registered Proprietor- TCM Associates Ltd

This property is located in a mixed use development known as The Regent Village and is close in proximity to many of the commercial tourism developments on Grace Bay beach. The development has a central courtyard with landscaped gardening, street lighting, stone paved footpaths, covered walkways and CCTV security throughout the property. The existing occupiers are restaurants, bars, shops and services. There is also office space and a substantial two story covered car park at the rear of the development. Each of the units is separately metered and has a restroom and ducted centrally air-conditioned system. These units are partially fitted for new tenants.

8. Title No. 60400/330, Chalk Sound, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Karen Rigby

This property is located on the south side of Chalk Sound drive. The property has a single storey residence with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, living/dining, utility closet and a front and rear porch. The property has no external improvements in terms of driveway or parking aware. The total floor area is 1,832 square feet.

9. Title No. 10304/142, 143, 144, Central, Grand Turk Registered Proprietor: Whale Watchers Ltd

Comprising 0.96 acre parcel containing a partially complete commercial development located on Front Street, Grand Turk with the potential to be used for office or residential units.

10. Title No. 60505/250, Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Samuel Jules

Comprising 0.26 acre parcel with bare land containing indigenous bush and small trees. The property is located between Blue Hills and the northern part of Kew Town and is accessed by turning on Bible Street, the second turning on Blue Hills Road, heading towards the T-junction and taking the northern hand turn to the end of the road and the property is the last lot on the left below the ridge land.

11. Title No. 60719/87 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Gregory Raymond Pinder and Lisa Phillips-Pinder Comprising 0.74 acre vacant canal-front residential parcel. The property is located on Water View Street, previously Boggy Creek Drive, in Discovery Bay.

12. Title No. 60713/90/K9, Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Ivan Gregory Kennessey Located in the Queen Angel Development comprising of studio, one, and two bedroom villas, which can be found in the Turtle Cove area. The property is Unit A201, a second floor one-bedroom corner unit in Building A. Unit A201 has a 1,275 unit entitlement and 1,275 square foot gross external area. The unit is fully furnished and has been recently renovated and upgraded. It comprises one bedroom, one bathroom, open kitchen/living/dining area, utility closet and storage space. The unit also has use of the resort facilities including the communal swimming pool and deck.

13. Title No. 60900/217, Leeward Going Through, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Pelican Holdings Ltd.

Comprising 0.65 acre parcel containing a residential home with an adjoining one bedroom apartment. The residential home contains three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and dining area, living room and a screened-in rear porch. The property is located within the Leeward Palms residential sub-division.

14. Title No. 60907/226/K4 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Michael Eugene Misick Located at the Providenciales Golf Club in the development known as The Palms.

The property is unit 4 and is a two-storey, two-bedroom townhome comprising 1,282 square feet. The unit benefits from discounted of the golf course, tennis courts and Continued

July 27 - August 2, 2013

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SALES

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WILFREY & TONY’S BEAUTY SALON Is looking for a

Continued

has communal access to the swimming pool and parking area in front of the unit.

Registered Proprietor: Obed Nathaniel Gardiner Comprising 0.78 acre parcel located in Major Hill in the Bottle Creek North section of North Caicos. The property is in a developing residential sub-division and contains three buildings. The first building consists of a two-storey ten-unit apartment building, with four two-bedroom units and six one-bedroom units, all with open living space. The second building consists of a part single-storey and two-storey seven-unit apartment building, with two two-bedroom units and five one-bedroom units, all with open living space. The third building consists of a two-storey two-bedroom unit with open living space on the upper level and a storage and workshop area on the lower level. The property is lightly landscaped with native mature trees and plants and has a gazebo and a front boundary wall.

16. Title No. 60715/210 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Lincoln Hudson Ferreira

Comprising 0.54 acre parcel with bare land containing dense indigenous bush and mature trees and is accessed via turning off the unpaved Turtle Creek Drive, which runs from the west of the Shell Station and proceeding southerly until the T junction, the subject land is accessed by taking the western turning and following the road until just before the canal starts to curve, where the subject land is located on the right hand side immediately fronting the canal.

M & S Trust Company Limited. as Chargee pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance hereby gives Notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the following property outside the offices of Miller Simons O’Sullivan, Second Floor, The Beatrice Butterfield Building, Butterfield Square, Providenciales at 10:00 a.m. on 9 August 2013.

1. Title No. 10102/14 North East Suburbs, Grand Turk

Registered Proprietor: Daniel Stevenson Simmons Comprising a 15-acre parcel with bare land. The property is located in the North East Suburbs in ‘The Ridge’, with frontage on North Creek and Lighthouse Road. The property has views over North Creek and the western shoreline.

Any and all potential bidders will be required to produce one (1) valid form of identification to Miller Simons O’Sullivan on the day of the Auction Draft Terms and Conditions of Sale and the Draft Agreements for Sale are available upon demand prior to the Auction.

Any and all Successful bidders will be required to pay a ten (10) per cent deposit upon a successful bid before close of business on the day of the Auction. Any and all successful bidders will also have to pay Auction legal fees in the sum of Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars (US$750.00.)

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

Contact: 231-0882

8927

15. Title No. 51105/46, Bottle Creek North, North Caicos

DELICIOUS DISHES Is looking for a

CLASSIFIEDS 39

Senior Interior

Designer Design Company is looking for an Interior Designer with 8+ year’s experience in residential, commercial, and hospitality design. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from a recognized 3 or 4 year program, along with extensive knowledge of AutoCAD 2013, Xcel, and SketchUp. Designer will be required to run projects from initiation to completion including Programming and Design development, Working Drawing Packages, Tendering, and managing Construction Administration. Additionally candidates must have good client interaction skills and familiarity with North American furniture suppliers and be willing to work under deadlines as required.

Please submit resumes/portfolios to PO Box 560, Butterfield Square, Providenciales, TCI or fax 946 4663

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

contact: 347-0720

8924

TLC BEAUTY SALON Is looking for the following persons:

2 hairdressers 1 nail technician Salary $6.00 per hour 6 days per week.

Contact: 245-0818

8911

Pampered Paws Ltd. Is looking for applicants for full and/or part-time

labourer positions

Must be fluent in English (written and spoken) Must have detailed experience with animals Must have transportation Must be willing and able to work weekends and holidays Please present resumes to Pampered Paws Spa, or contact: 431-1119 email Address: sharwind2002@ yahoo.com 8904

PRIVATE CHEF A luxury villa is currently seeking a private chef to cater for high-end guests.

The successful applicant should have the following skills: @@ 7 years experience as a villa chef or running a commercial kitchen for a caterer or high-end fine dining restaurant or hotel @@ Knowledge of commercial level food prep safety and hygiene @@ Menu planning and costing, including preparation and printing @@ Ability to manage other chefs and servers @@ Ability to match and select wines to compliment menu @@ Fluent in English (written and verbal) @@ Able to communicate in Spanish/Creole with other staff @@ Able to cater weddings, cocktail parties and special events @@ Excellent variety of menus of worldwide cuisine including desserts, pastries, hor d’oeuvres and chocolates @@ Additionally the position requires: @@ Long working hours (breakfast, lunch and dinner), public holidays, weekends and back to back rentals @@ Shopping for food and beverage supplies @@ Maintaining an inventory and billing clients for supplies ad services @@ Clean driving and police record @@ Ability to maintain complete confidentiality about guest identity @@ Salary $3,000 per month @@ Only Belongers need apply Applications should be submitted by July 31st, 2013 either by email to: markpankhurst@hotmail.com or by post to Stargazer Villa, P.O. Box 196 , Providenciales. Please include a current resume and a few samples of menus of dinner entrees of items you regularly prepare, also include a contact email address and telephone number 8870

July 27 - August 2, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

Electrician HOLE IN THE WALL

Domestic Worker

ALL APPLICANTS MUST APPLY DIRECTLY TO BNC CONSULTING GROUP E-MAIL - bthomas@bnccgroup.com | PHONE - 649-332-2565\

EVENT COORDINATOR The successful candidate will serve as the key liaison between event clients, F&B and other departments, and external vendors. This individual must be highly organized with the ability to multi task in a fastpaced environment. The availability to work a flexible schedule coordinating all event day activities for weddings, banquets and other special events is required. You must be energetic, possess exceptional interpersonal skills, and have a passion for hospitality and serving others. To be considered for this role, you must meet the following minimum requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Events Management, Project Management or a related discipline plus 2 years of event planning or project management experience within a five-star resort environment Excellent knowledge of hospitality, banqueting, and/or food and beverage operations Exceptional organization skills with great attention to detail Deadline-oriented with a proven ability to see a project through from inception to completion Excellent spoken and written communication skills Sound command of the English language; second language is an asset Outstanding interpersonal skills with an extraordinary ability to remain calm and pleasant under the most adverse circumstances Strong critical thinking and negotiation skills Must be confident, polished, and professional in presentation, communication style and demeanor Solid PC skills including Word, Excel and PowerPoint; Working knowledge of Visual One and/or Infogenesis is essential Professional references and a clean background required

BAR MANAGER The selected candidate will be responsible for overseeing and directing the daily operations of a popular, beachside outdoor bar, and provide backup support to the Restaurant Manager in his/her absence.

The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring guest service and financial goals are met or exceeded.

Responsibilities will include staffing, scheduling, training, and managing the guest experience. Minimum requirements for consideration include: Minimum 5 years’ beverage experience OR combination of relevant education and experience Prior bar management experience in a high volume environment Thorough knowledge of mixology, wine, spirits, and champagne Thorough knowledge of beverage operations, standards and practices, and service techniques within a luxury environment is essential Prior experience developing and implementing bar promotions and events Pleasant, outgoing personality with the ability to handle the pressure of a fast-paced environment Proven success increasing beverage sales and upselling Ability to prioritize workload, delegate tasks, and solve problems Ability to monitor bar performance through analysis of financial results, inventory and guest feedback Experience managing a diverse team in a fast-paced environment; exceptional attention to detail, speed and accuracy is essential Computer literate with working knowledge of Visual One and/or Infogenesis Flexibility to work a shift schedule which may include late evenings, weekends and holidays, or whenever business necessitates Professional references and a clean background is required

Belongers meeting the above minimum requirements are requested to apply directly to Bridgette Thomas at bthomas@bnccgroup.com for immediate consideration or call 332-2565. Professional references and a clean background are required for all positions. Salaries are commensurate with level, experience and education.

CLOSING DATE: August 2, 2013

ONLY QUALIFIED BELONGERS WILL BE CONTACTED

Kitchen Helper

Laundry Attendant

Sales Clerk To work 5 days per week salary $5-$6.

MAX’S MINI MART

LaboUrer Salary commensurate with qualification Resumes can be faxed to 941-3425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible 8893

contact: 345-7512

REGISTERED NURSE REQUIRED • Must have Bachelors degree in nursing qualification from a recognized university and at least 3 years post qualification experience • Be available to work part-time hours between 8am – 8pm daily plus weekends, holidays and overnight to meet the needs of the clinic • Eligible for registration with the local Health Practitioners Board • Experience in operating theatres assisting with gynecology and urology cases • Willing to be flexible to meet the needs of the clinic • Must be highly computer literate experience with medical billing software and QuickBooks an advantage • Salary commensurate with experience

Please send CV to amp@tciway.tc or fax: 649-946-4942 Closing date July 27th, 2013. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

PHARMACIST

• Must have Bachelors in pharmacy qualification and at least 10 years post qualification experience • Computer literate including previous use of dispensary management software and retail point of sale software required • Basic knowledge of accounting principles and asset and reconciliation of daily sales is required • Salary commensurate with experience ranging from $40k • ALL APPLICANTS MUST BE REGISTERED WITH THE TCI HEALTH PRACTIONIONERS BOARD

BANQUET MANAGER The Banquet Manager will provide hands-on management of banquet activities from inception to completion, which includes budgeting and forecasting, cost management, staffing, set up and break down, purchasing and inventory, etc. Must be energetic, detail oriented, and a team player with a can-do attitude. The ability to meet financial, service and guest satisfaction targets is essential. Applicants for this role must meet the following minimum requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management or related discipline OR equivalent combination of experience and education 3-5 years proven banqueting experience within a luxury resort environment Strong leadership skills with the ability to work well across departments Extensive knowledge of hotel and food and beverage operations and safety standards Knowledge of budgeting and forecasting and P&L analysis including productivity and cost management Demonstrated ability to work with and engage multicultural/multi-ethnic teams and guests Strong verbal and written communication skills, excellent command of the English language Quality oriented with a focus on details and high performance standards Flexibility to work non-standard hours which may include early mornings and late evenings Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Infogenesis POS

GORDON’S ELECTRIC dba PROVO ELECTRIC

Please send CV to: islandpharmacy@ tciway.tc or fax: 649-941-2389

GLOBAL SERVICES Is looking for a

8885

BNC Consulting Group Ltd is actively seeking qualified Belonger candidates to fill the listed openings for its resort clients.

Acting on behalf of our clients: Villa Del Ma, Video Wave is looking to fill the following positions:

Top end millwork Is looking for one skilled finish

carpenter/ furniture

Cashier Salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 331-1809 8883

Must be able to read drawings. Salary $8.5 per hour.

Contact: 247-4068 between the hours of 10am-3pm

8869

40 CLASSIFIEDS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PUBCO LTD.

OFFICE CONSULTANT

GENERAL MANAGER Summary of Duties This position provides for the general management oversight and direction of all business aspects of Herzog Caribbean Ltd. This includes providing leadership and motivation to promote the consistent execution of standard practices, policies and procedures. Applicant should have a strong knowledge of business plan development and implementation.

Main Duties and Responsibilities: ;;Responsible for the management and direction of staff for the execution of roadway construction contracts for both government and private owners; ;;Responsible for management of the quality control process of all products and materials used for roadway and airport projects; ;;Responsible for the day-to-day liaison with governmental agencies for integrating planned work into the communities without impacting local community activities or traffic patterns; ;;Responsible for directing staff in preparing bids and estimates for private and public contracts; ;;Responsible for financial oversight and contract compliance for all awarded projects; ;;Responsible for regular liaison with Herzog Caribbean Corporate office in the United ;;States; ;;Responsible for attending meetings both in the Caribbean and the United States to provide business status reports to owners and executives of the company; ;;Responsible as needed for providing management assistance and direction to other Herzog Caribbean projects in the Caribbean; ;;Responsible for the overall financial stability and profitability of the business; ;;Responsible for directing staff in the safe operation of construction equipment’ ;;Responsible for developing and maintaining an overall safe work environment for employees; ;;Responsible for managing and directing staff to maintain Cash Flow Operations, (Budget and Financial Controls), Budgeting (Monthly Variance Analysis of actual/ budgets). ;;Responsible for directing staff in the development of accounting and financial protocol for the processing of accounts payable and receivables.

Academic Qualification and Experience Required: ;;Minimum of an A.A. Degree in Civil Engineering ;;Minimum of 10 years of experience in the construction industry ;;Knowledge of roadway construction and survey ;;Knowledge of hot mix asphalt plant works ;;Knowledge of concrete works ;;Knowledge of safety and quality control ;;Knowledge of tender biddings ;;Strong construction and financial background ;;Proficient in Heavy Bid, Primavera, AutoCad & Microsoft Office Tools Functional Skills: ;;Excellent written and verbal communication skills ;;People management skills ;;Proven track record of successful leadership ;;Excellent negotiating skills ;;Local knowledge of how to successfully do business in the Turks and Caicos and other Caribbean Islands

Please submit resume and completed job application to the attention of Anya Pratt, Human Resources Manager July 27th 2013.

Job application forms can be obtained at Herzog Caribbean Limited’s administration office located at C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway or call (649) 941-8007.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Office Management skills and experience • Extensive knowledge of local ordinances including gaming, labor, NIS & NHIP • Must be willing to work unusual hours including weekends and public holidays • Pay negotiable based on qualifications and

experience

Email resume to: pubcoltd@gmail.com

ISLAND HOME BUILDERS Leeward Highway, Providenciales Telephone: 941-3112

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary starts at $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need apply.

8873

GWENDOLY LTD. Is looking for a

JEREMIAH MISSICK

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-4420

Aleisa Musgrove

Labourer Babysitter To work 5 days Salary: $5.00 per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 243-0948 HAMUTAL HANDFIELD Is looking for a

Sales clerk

8885

Is looking for a

8864

Herzog Caribbean Limited is seeking a qualified individual to fill the following opening. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualification and requirements will be considered.

• Must have 10+ years experience in Corporate Administration • Certified in Office Literacy and Accounting Procedures • CAA Board Registered • Extensive knowledge of QuickBooks, Microsoft Office, Micros System Configurator,

Labourer

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

Contact: 242-0425

8862

per hour

Contact: Information:maleisa @gmail.com

EMPLOYEES NEEDED Labourers Chef Domestic Worker Security Guard Driver To work 5 days per week or on call salary starting at $5.00 per hour please send resume to P.O. Box 954 Belonger will be given first preference

8868

Senior Pharmacist Required - - - - - - - -

Pharmacy Degree from a European/North American University.

At least 5 years post qualification experience in community pharmacy.

Recent experience managing pharmacy business.

Post graduate qualification an advantage.

Excellent IT skills essential including use of POS and Quickbooks.

Eligible to register with TCI Health Practitioners Board.

Must be available to work long shifts, weekends & holidays.

Salary commensurate with experience.

Trainee Pharmacy Assistant Opportunity

- Must have good CXC/GSCE passes in maths, English & science or equivalent plus Associates degree or A-levels in health or science subject.

- Exemplary customer service skills and ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.

- Candidate will be enrolled in a UK distance learning pharmacy assistant course.

- Applicant will be required to pass a written English and maths test as part of interview process.

- Wages $7-10 per hour, rising on successful completion of course.

Written applications only. Please send resume, cover letter and copies of qualifications to rachel@flamingopharmacy.com.

Belongers only need apply. Closing date 3rd August 2013.

42

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Bolt: “I’m clean” USAIN Bolt has a simple message following a string of doping scandals that have cast a shadow over athletics and Jamaican sport: “I’m clean.”

A six-time Olympic gold medalist, Bolt was speaking publicly for the first time since his fellow Jamaican and elite sprinter Asafa Powell and Tyson Gay of the United States tested positive for banned substances.

“If you were following me since 2002 you would know that I have been doing phenomenal things since I was 15,” the 100 metre and 200 metre world record holder told reporters ahead of this weekend’s Diamond League meeting in London.

“I was the youngest person to win the world junior title at 15, I ran the world junior record at 18, the world youth record at 17.

“I have broken every record there is to break, in every event I have ever done. For me, I have proven myself since I was 15. For me, I have shown I was always going to be great.”

“I was made to inspire people and to run. I was given a gift and that’s what I do. I’m confident in myself and my team, the people I work with.

And I know I am clean.”

Powell became the second highprofile Jamaican sprinter to fail a drugs test in a matter of weeks.

Veronica Campbell-Brown, a triple Olympic gold medalist, was given a provisional suspension in June.

Powell, Campbell-Brown and Gay deny knowingly taking banned substances, as does Jamaican Sherone Simpson who also tested positive.

Josh for Sports

Chris Froome won his first yellow jersey on Sunday.

World record sprinter Usain Bolt said that he “was given a gift and that’s what I do. I’m confident in myself and my team, the people I work with. And I know I am clean.”

Bolt revealed he had sent a text message to Powell, telling his compatriot “to stay strong and focused.”

“There are a lot of details yet to be discussed so I’m just sitting and waiting to see the results and what’s what,” added Bolt. “There are a lot of things that haven’t been done and haven’t been said so I’m just waiting to see what is going on.

“You have to be very careful as an athlete because right now there are a lot of things on the banned list.

You have to keep up to date all of the time. It’s hard but that’s why you have a team to help you out with this kind of thing.”

Away from athletics, Jamaican sport was rocked by a fresh doping scandal after one of the Caribbean nation’s footballers become the latest sporting figure to fail a drugs test.

The unnamed footballer failed a test carried out by the sport’s global governing body FIFA following last month’s World Cup qualifying match against Honduras.

“During the World Cup Qualifying match, Honduras vs Jamaica, on June 11, 2013 a member of the Jamaican squad returned an adverse analytical finding on his urine sample,” read a statement from the Jamaican Football Federation (JFF).

“The testing was carried out by the FIFA. This means that the ensuing process will be managed by the FIFA. The player has been informed and we await further information from the FIFA. “The JFF has taken this matter very seriously and a thorough investigation has already started by the chairman of the JFF Medical Committee.” (CNN)

Froome can be a multiple Tour champion - Brailsford SIR Dave Brailsford believes 2013 Tour de France winner Chris Froome can be a “multiple champion”.

Froome, who won his first yellow jersey on Sunday, told BBC Sport he would like to “contend for the next five years”.

Team Sky boss Brailsford said: “He has the physical and mental attributes to be competitive in this race, if nothing drastic changes, for quite some time.

“He is not at his best yet. He can still reach a better physical condition than he is in now.”

Brailsford has delivered backto-back Tour de France champions after Sir Bradley Wiggins became Britain’s first winner of the event last year.

When Team Sky launched in 2010, Brailsford said it was his aim to win the race within five years.

Wiggins, 33, could return to the

Reflections: Part II

Rugby and basketball ABOUT one year ago, I wrote a column based on my reflections and on my observations on the status of the progress or nonprogress of national sports in the TCI. Because of the limitation of space as regards to this column, I cannot satisfy this great demand for me to address the multiplicity of the diverse sports that require national attention. Thus it’s incumbent that I summarise in brief, touching on a variety of sports, from time to time.

This is the second time that I’m writing on my reflections.

HATS OFF RESPECT DUE I am a most happy man, for once in my life, because of the success of the hard work that the expats have put into the promotion and

By Joshua Gardiner teaching of rugby among the youths of our country.

I remember when the TCI Rugby Football Union initiated their drive to popularise rugby among the youths of our nation.

This initiative goes back to the

days of my committed and now deceased friend Francis McDonald.

They had it right. These visionaries took to the primary schools and excited the interest in the youths. It has reached the point where we now have inter-primary school competitions in both male and female students.

The union was so committed that they sought and secured sponsorship for our young men to travel all the way to Ireland to participate in training camps, run by some of the international legends of the sport.

Now we are reaping the rewards of the vision, effort and commitment of these unselfish expats. They have demonstrated a definable love for the TCI, by their altruistic nature with the sharing of their time, money and expertise to leave a tangible legacy of love for and to our country, which

they have adopted as theirs.

I applaud these ambassadors from the depths of my heart. Also I’m again asking the government to award them belongership status for their outstanding contribution to our country.

INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONS We are now the champions of the Caribbean at the trophy division, in U-19 rugby. To drive the point further home in just our first Caribbean tournament at the junior level we defeated Guyana, one of the most dominant countries in Caribbean rugby. That is 35,000 compare to almost 800, 000 population-wise.

I’ve said in the past that we can become the most powerful nation in the world in sports, per capita, if we expend energy and money behind

race next year after illness denied him the chance of defending his title, although he hinted in June that his Tour de France days may be over, Fellow Brit Froome, who helped Wiggins win the 2012 Tour, feels the pair could ride in the same team if Brailsford thinks it can work.

“It depends on the course, the conditions, what plays to our strengths, what plays to our weaknesses, but if Dave says it’s possible then I’m sure it’s possible,” said the 28-year-old Froome.

Like Wiggins, Froome faced constant questioning about doping en route to his victory, especially in the wake of seven-time winner Lance Armstrong’s admission in January that he used performance-enhancing substances throughout his career.

International Cycling Union (UCI) president Pat McQuaid said he had some sympathy for Froome.

our national talent.

We are a mixture of 65countries in a population of 35,000.

We are rich. The youths are the future of TCI. BASKETBALL Most native/residents are afraid to go to Five-Cays. Yet FiveCays produce champions. I take my hat off to Philip Roker, coach of the Knights basketball team. Mr. Roker’s team won the PABA organised Tanka Williams Memorial Championships basketball tournament over the Bahamian 40th anniversary Weekend Celebrations by defeating the Five-Cay Flyers, who have been dominating them for years.

Five Cays only need attention from the corporate society. Pump money into sports programmes for the children. Give them a renewed sense of focus and discipline.

More to come later: Focus on Five-Cays.

July 27 - August 2, 2013

Sports International

Powell vows to return after positive drugs test FORMER 100m world record holder Asafa Powell says he wants to return to the track as soon as possible after his failed drug test.

The 30-year-old tested positive for banned stimulant oxilofrine at the Jamaican Championships in June.

When the news emerged, he said he had never “knowingly or wilfully taken any supplements that break any rules” and has reiterated that stance.

“This has been the most difficult week of my athletic career,” said Powell.

“The supplements I took formed part of a very strict and rigid training regimen,” he added in a statement.

Powell and American sprinter Tyson Gay’s failed drug tests were made public 10 days ago and both are now awaiting the results of their B samples.

Powell said checks done by his team “told us the supplements were fit for consumption by professional athletes”.

“I have retained legal counsel and as such I cannot now discuss all the details of the case,” he added.

“I will say, however, that I have requested that my B sample be tested and I await the results.

“Should this sample return

43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Asafa Powell says he wants to make Jamaicans and the rest of his athletic fans proud of him again.

adverse results, my team and I hope that the hearings will happen as fast as possible so as to allow me to return to my team, to once again represent my country, and to make my family, friends, and fans proud.”

Powell was the last man to hold the individual 100m record before compatriot Usain Bolt broke it in 2008.

He later helped Jamaica win 4x100m relay gold at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

Sherone Simpson, a 4x100m relay silver medallist at last year’s London Olympics, failed a drug test at the same event as Powell.

Alonso says Ferrari cannot afford to lose more ground FERNANDO Alonso says it is “important” he does not lose any more ground to title rival Sebastian Vettel at Sunday’s Hungarian Grand Prix.

The Ferrari driver is 34 points adrift of Red Bull’s Vettel, with Lotus’s Kimi Raikkonen a further seven adrift.

“It will be good motivation for the team and good for our hopes if we can close the gap a little,” Alonso said.

“If the gap increases it will be a stressed summer break for us, so it’s an important weekend.”

Hungary is the 10th grand prix of the 19-race season, and after it there is a four-week break until the championship restarts in Belgium at the end of August.

During the break, teams are required to close down their factories for a two-week period and do no work at all.

Vettel has won four of the nine races so far this season for Red Bull, including two of the last three - and he would have won in Britain at the end of last month had his car not suffered a clutch-shaft failure while he was leading.

But he denied that the championship is already within his grasp.

Fernando Alonso is 34 points adrift of leader Sebastian Vettel.

“No, not at all,” said Vettel, who has won the title for the last three years. “I’m not really thinking about it.

“Obviously we have one more race here before we have a bit of a break, which I think is a good time to reflect on the first half of the season and try to look back on what we have done, where we can improve and then go step by step.

“The second half of the season will be extremely tough, with lots of races in only a few weeks, and with the points system we have a lot of things can happen very quickly.

“It is a very good position we are in at the moment. But first of all we’ll focus on this one and then try to look forward to the second half, not thinking too much about the championship.”

Raikkonen, who finished a close second to Vettel at the last race in Germany, is expected to be strong this weekend as his Lotus works well in the forecasted high temperatures.

The Finn said: “There are still many races to be raced and many points to be given out, so anything can happen.” (BBC)

Mickelson delighted by “round of my life”

Ronaldinho has twice been voted world footballer of the year and won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002.

Ronaldinho leads Atletico Mineiro to Copa Libertadores triumph RONALDINHO rounded on critics who said he was finished after he helped lead Brazilian side Atletico Mineiro to the Copa Libertadores title after a penalty shootout victory over Olimpia.

The 2002 World Cup winner and two-time world player of the year helped his side edge past their Paraguayan opponents via a penalty shootout to land their first ever Libertadores crown -- the premier club competition in South America.

Atletico had to rely on an 87th minute equalizer from Leonardo Silva in the second leg of final to force the tie into extra time, which remained goalless. This came just

moments after Olimpia defender Julio Cesar Manzur had been sent off.

Once again, as he had been in both the quarter and semifinals, Atletico’s goalkeeper Victor was hailed as hero.

Having saved penalties to help his side past Tijuana and Newell’s Old Boys, he made a crucial penalty save after the match had gone to a shootout, Atletico winning 4-3 to land their first major international title.

“This is why I came back to Brazil,” Ronaldinho told reporters.

“Not long ago people were saying that I was done but we showed today that isn’t the case. Let them talk now.”

PHIL Mickelson called his finalround 66 to win his first Open Championship at Muirfield “the round of my life”.

The American, 43, was five shots off the lead overnight but carded the week’s low round to win by three.

“This is such an accomplishment because I never knew if I’d be able to develop my game to play links golf,” said Mickelson, winner of five major titles.

“I never knew whether I would be equipped, have the shots, have the opportunity to do this.”

Mickelson was seemingly on the periphery when a front nine of 34 was followed by a bogey on the 10th, but he birdied the 13th, 14th, 17th and 18th to take the clubhouse lead.

He ended up winning by three shots from Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, with English pair Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood four back, alongside Australia’s Masters champion Adam Scott, and world number one Tiger Woods another shot back.

The victory moves Mickelson back to number two in the world for the first time since September 2010.

And with three Masters and a US PGA title already to his name, he only needs to win a US Open to complete a career Grand Slam.

“We had such firm, fast conditions

Phil Mickelson was outstanding on the last day of the open after leaving the penultimate day five shot adrift.

here, the epitome of links golf, to putt better than I’ve ever putted, to shoot the round of my life feels amazing,” said Mickelson, who moved into the lead with two holes left in his round.

“When I made that putt on the 13th to get back to level par I thought that would be a score that was going to contend and have a great opportunity to win - and I made some great putts coming in.

“I knew that it was so difficult coming down the stretch that having to make birdies to chase somebody down would be extremely difficult.

“The range of emotions I feel are as far apart as possible after such a difficult loss at the US Open

[Mickelson recorded a record sixth runner-up spot in the US Open behind Justin Rose last month].

“You have to be resilient in this game, you have to accept losses and use it as motivation to work harder and come back strong rather than letting it defeat you.”

Mickelson’s coach Butch Harmon called his charge’s performance on Sunday as “the best round of golf I’ve seen”.

“I said when Greg Norman won in 1993 that that was the best round of golf I’ve seen, but I think this one tops it,” said Harmon, who has now coached four Open champions.

(BBC)

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TCIFA third annual summer camp:

Almost 100 children learn football skills from US and local coaches

The youngsters who took part in the TCIFA’s third summer camp.

very lively and full of enthusiasm.

There is a lot of natural talent here which is being well nurtured by the association. Our girls had a great time working with the local players and it was a wonderful experience for them to be able to give something back to the sport”.

day.

The players were involved in a skills challenge, a world cup tournament and they were introduced to beach soccer.

At the end of the camp each child received a certificate and an assessment of their skills; prizes

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were also given out to several hard working players.

The event was supported by Graceway IGA and Smile TCI who made donations to the association to ensure that the children had sufficient water and food during the week of activities.

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The camp which lasted for a week catered for the U-7 coeds, the U-9 boys, the U-12 boys and the U-15 boys along with the U-11 and U-14 girls. The national youth and senior players led the local coaching secessions before the international players/coaches took over on the last

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ALMOST 100 children split into six groups were the recipients of international coaching when the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) held their third annual summer camp in Providenciales.

The children had the likes of established US based coaches Mark Rodrigues from the Greater Tampa Bay Football Club and Ellis Pierre from the Bethesda Football Club, one of the top rated sides in the USA, teaching them on the last day of their week-long camp.

Both US teams took part in the TCIFA’s Women’s Festival of Football.

In analysing the TCIFA Rodrigues said. “This is my third trip to the islands and every year I come I am impressed with the progress the association is making. Every year the standard of play improves. The coaches are doing a great job and the players are fun to work with and are very disciplined and focused.”

Pierre was full of praises for the youngsters. “The kids here are

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HAB Group/TCICA T-20 cricket final:

Kings reign after feisty knocks from Charles and John AGGRESSIVE half centuries from middle order batsmen Errion Charles and Sabuton John propelled Quality Kings to a 21-run victory over favourites and defending champions Beaches in the final of the HAB sponsored TCICA T20 cricket competition last Sunday at the Downtown Ball Park.

Losing the toss the Kings started well with Ira Baptiste firing three sixes and two fours off of 21 balls for a score of 30, but in less than two overs Earl Henry (06), Baptiste and Calvin Chase (0) were back in the pavilion.

GREAT PARTNERSHIP Charles, who has shown great form, having scored an even century against the Jaguars in the semi-finals, was then joined by John and the pair demonstrated some big hitting. They added 111 runs for the fourth wicket at a run rate of 10.9 per over to push the Kings to a winning total.

Charles, who would later nab the Player of the Tournament and the Most Runs awards, was not afraid to go aerial. The national batsman clobbered five sixes and four fours in 35 balls en route to 57 runs.

John belted 10 fours in his 33 balls at the crease for his total of 52.

After Charles fell, Beaches pegged the Kings back with four quick wickets (three going to Damian St. Ange, including the prize wickets of the half-century makers) for 17 runs, but the damage was already done as the eventual winners ended their overs on 188-8.

St. Ange finished with 3-23 from his four overs, but it was Hansie Zietsman who bowled wicket to wicket to finish with figures of 2-11 from four overs, one of which was a maiden, the only such in the game.

BEACHES FIGHT In the middle, Beaches made a spirited run chase, they kept

The Quality Kings took over the reigns as Twenty20 champions.

wickets in hand and most of their batsmen had starts, but none totally dominated. Kareem Jack (30) and Odane Ewart (29) took the score to 63 before both fell to Jeremy Jones in the 10th over. With fresh batsmen at the crease rebuilding was always going to be difficult.

After Sidu Hunter (18) became

the third victim of Jones, the technically correct Anthony McKnight with 32 (2X4s and 2X6s off of 22 balls) took the score to 126 in 16.5 overs, but with a whopping 63 runs needed with limited balls remaining it took a herculean task from St. Ange (24 runs off 14) and Desbourne Young (27 runs in 12

balls) to reach 167, still 22 runs short of victory.

Jones led the attack with 3-26 from four overs.

Charles tallied 230 runs to take the most runs awards while the Jaguars’ Walter Henry’s finished with nine wickets to take the top bowling award.

Church Softball Co-Ed League:

St. Monica’s Church into finals Roman Torres, center, Roberto Chen, left and Gabriel Torres celebrate after scoring against Mexico during Panama’s 2-1 victory to advance to the Gold Cup final against the United States. (Nicholas Kamm / Getty Images / July 24, 2013)

THE ST. Monica’s Church have advanced to the best-in-five final of the Church Softball Co-Ed League in Providenciales.

After entering the playoffs as the third seeded team behind defending champions Bethany Baptiste Church

and Prophecy Church, St. Monica clawed back from a game-one defeat by the latter to win back-to-back encounters in their best-in-three clash.

They lost 3-4 to Prophecy in game one before winning 3-2

Panama defeat Mexico, set to face USA in Gold Cup final FOR the second time in 11 years, Mexico won’t play in the Gold Cup final.

Panama made sure of that Wednesday, turning a first-half goal from Blas Perez, a secondhalf score from Roman Torres and some brilliant goalkeeping from Jaime Penedo into a 2-1 win over Mexico in front of 81,410 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Panama, which beat Mexico, 2-1, in the Gold Cup opener, will play the U.S. in Sunday’s final in Chicago. The U.S. advanced with a 3-1 victory over Honduras in Wednesday’s first semifinal game.

Panama got the deciding goal in the 61st minute on a brilliant header from Torres, who dashed in from the edge of the penalty area to head in a long corner kick from Gabriel Torres.

Perez, who plays for FC Dallas, got the scoring started in his homecoming in the 13th minute. The goal came at the end of an impressive give and go that in which Perez scooted the ball to Alberto Quintero, who dribbled toward the center of the penalty area before sending it back to Perez, whose blast from the right edge of the six-yard box slammed into the net at the far side.

St. Monica’s Church softball team won two consecutive games in the Playoffs to advance to the best-in-five finals.

and 4-3 in games two and three respectively.

Both Bethany Baptiste Church and last year’s runner’s up Jericho Baptiste Church were tied 1-1 going into Thursday evening’s third semifinal match.

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