TCWN July 6 -12 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 26| July 6 - 12, 2013

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passes House THE HOUSE of Assembly stood divided on Monday (July 1), with the Opposition standing their ground on the introduction of new taxes by not voting in support of new legislation which will bring the 15 per cent tax on freight and insurance of imports into effect. PAGE  5

PAGE 

Nine-year-old Royanne Robinson crowned Little Miss Summa Jam 2013 (PHOTOS BY ANTHONY WILLIAMS)

Summa Jam 2013 fun filled Disbanded Financial Services Coordinating Committee a non-issue, Misick PAGE  7

No review of InterHealth Canada contract until 2015 PAGE 

Education consultation can fix the glitches in the system – Missick PAGE  9

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

New tax passes House BY VANESSA NARINE

THE HOUSE of Assembly stood divided on Monday (July 1), with the Opposition standing their ground on the introduction of new taxes by not voting in support of new legislation which will bring the 15 per cent tax on freight and insurance of imports into effect. The vote, however, was in favour of the House majority, including Government Ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs). Finance, Investment and Trade Minister, Washington Misick, moved the motion to allow all three readings of the Custom (Charge on Insurance and Freight) Bill 2013 and its eventual passage on Monday. FIRST VOTE Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, argued that the proposition contravenes the standing orders, in that the bill is not an appropriation or supplementary appropriation bill, which is the only bill that can be passed in one sitting. He stated the proper procedure requires at least seven days between the first and second readings. Selver said: “This is done for good reasons…this bill has far reaching implications for the Turks and Caicos Islands…we cannot rush this through before the people are aware of its contents.” The Opposition Appointed Member referenced a standing order that says it is incumbent on the Speaker to ensure the rights of all MPs are protected. He further referenced the code of conduct of MPs, which gives guidance on dealing with significant policy changes by Government. “If they are proposing to introduce bills of this nature we should be aware of it and the public has not even been consulted on this,” Selver argued. House Speaker, Robert Hall, took on board the concerns and left it up to the House to vote on moving ahead. Before the vote, Government Appointed Member, Ruth Blackman, pointed out that the standing orders, which guide the operations of Parliament, provide for a motion to be made by any member. The House voted to proceed with only the Opposition voting against debating the tax bill. Misick moved to have the bill read a second time and then debated, which was seconded by the Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing. APPEAL The Finance, Investment and Trade Minister appealed for MPs to think clearly and objectively and do the right thing, by supporting the Custom (Charge on Insurance and Freight) Bill 2013. Putting things in context, Misick explained that the TCI has an extensive history of structural deficit. He said: “I would like to be very clear about what I have to say today,

because I don’t want to be taken out of context.” According to him, a structural deficit translates to a permanent deficit. He said: “Some would say that is not the case and yes we have had surpluses in the past, but these have been insignificant and a result of extraordinary events, such as sale of government asset, such as Crown land…this cannot continue. “The paradigm must change to meet our obligations.” Misick stressed the need to sustain the balance between expenditure and revenue. He said: “Some factors are beyond the control of Government, but what is under our control is a broad base structure that will allow us to collect a certain amount of revenue regardless of what happens to the economy. “Structural deficit issues can only be explicitly dealt with by government policy and these primarily involve reducing government spending or increased taxation. “Government always has the ability to decide whether it is going to create a short-term deficit to improve infrastructure and invest in education if the trend is general improvement in the economy that will see increased revenue in the medium and long-term. “Our structural deficit is due to poor economic management and fundamental lacking in economic capacity…the TCI is not alone in the Caribbean with these challenges… we are not alone, but we are not the worst off either. “Today it is important that we get real. “The days of whipping the British are over. We are in charge now and we have to make difficult decisions.” The Minister pointed out that the House voted against Value Added Tax (VAT) in favour of finding home-grown solutions. He also stressed that the measures being taken are temporary, until the Blue Ribbon Commission is established to review the system, a process that is expected to see lower taxation and a higher standard of living for TCI households. “We are taking action to bring this problem of debt under control…but need to take interim steps,” Misick said. The Minister added that even without the “burden on the loan guarantee” the time to make a paradigm shift in the country’s taxation system would still be now. He said: “We have a situation where we have a bundle of direct, indirect taxes, rates and fees that we have to look at. “The intention is to have a broad based tax system that is progressive.” Such a system, according to him, will see those that consume more pay more tax, as well as reduce the potential for abuse and arbitration. Until then, Misick made it clear that short-term measures are

required. The Minister added that there are “no free lunches”, either you pay now or later. He said: “Something has to replace VAT, there are no free lunches….by the next financial year, it is the intention of this Government to have a new structure that will retire structural deficits…or some other plan with the intention of restricting the economy.” Misick expressed disappointment that the Opposition took the stance of not supporting the bill. CONCERNS The Governor’s Appointed Member, John Phillips, acknowledged the need for revenue raising measures, but was not convinced that merchants will not increase prices. He said: “The bill does represent a small marginal increase in prices of commodities…hopefully most merchants can absorb these small increases.” Misick maintained that any massive increases are “unconscionable”. Phillips pointed out that boosting Government income is best done through economic growth not taxation. He said: “If we can stimulate the growth there would be no need for increases in taxes.” Elected Member for Five Cays, Sean Astwood, objected to the new tax on the basis that the current administration’s manifesto did not include increases in taxes. He said: “It was obvious that enough people thought this (the PNP) was their best option…what we have now is a bill that seeks to make the life of poor people harder. “Contrary to what the Minister of Finance hopes to happen, I will not be supporting the bill today. “Let me make it clear, while I am not naive to financial challenges, we accept the Government is in need of monies…taxing the people ought not to be the first and only options. “Something is inherently wrong with this approach.” Astwood questioned whether the Government believed that the people are “gullible” to be comforted with phrases like “minimal” effects. He said: “After talking to a few people, one trend that is common, the Premier and Minister of Finance enjoy a salary that is top one per cent…the people who are financially comfortable do not understand how even slight increases will impact poor people. “The cost of living is already high and the PNP Government is finding 'new and exciting ways' to increase it. “We got a six for a nine…we (the Opposition) never agreed to alternative revenue strategy.” The Finance, Investment and Trade Minister made clear his surprise at Astwood’s comments and said his comments were irresponsible.

He said: “I want to clear the misconception that we are callous because we are in the top one per cent of earners…my salary, with allowances, is just over $10,000 and putting in the hours I do, I am paid less than minimum wage. “Be clear I am happy to work, I did not come here for a job, I had a job, I am here to serve.” The Opposition MP pointed to the promises made by the Government to advance alternatives to VAT that will not place the burden entirely on the local population. “Is it only the Opposition that is looking out for the people?” he asked. On that note, he recommended that if the new tax measure is indeed temporary, an amendment should be included in the bill to stipulate a timeframe for it to be rolled back. Astwood said: “Premier, if you continue to create hardship for our people, you will find no friends on this side and the House will become one of pain and anxiety for you and your Cabinet.”

NO BLIND SUPPORT Elected Member for Blue Hills, Goldray Ewing, in his contribution to the debate stressed that the Opposition did not blindly support the VAT fight. That said, he noted that Monday was a sad day for the people of the Islands. Ewing said: “This bill is not the type of hardship that you want to push down the throat of your people this early in the game…yes we joined in opposing VAT, but we did not vote against VAT blindly. “There are monies out there to be collected and even if you fell short, there could be other avenues to be taken. “This new tax is VAT in the extreme….only difference is that books don’t have to be opened. “The people of this country should have a say in their affairs and

something like this should have been brought to the people before it was brought to the house. “The people are watching and are listening…we are not doing business that would reduce the impact on our people...the Minister of Finance is talking with a double tongue.” He added that policing this new tax will be difficult, particularly given that compliance of the current system is a challenge. “My advice is let’s enforce compliance and collection of the revenue out there so we can truly see where our shortfalls are in the existing system,” Ewing said. The Finance Minister, on this point, stated that the Revenue Control Department is looking to collect what is due, for example the accommodation tax not just from resorts, but also from villas. “Every effort is being made to enforce collection,” Misick said. Member for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay, Edwin Astwood, had strong words to criticise the new tax. He said: “Poison by any other name is still poison.” Astwood went on to expand on Misick’s earlier comments about the TCI not being alone in its financial trouble, but was interrupted by the Minister who had to correct his misinterpretation of his comments. Misick said: “He is misrepresenting what I said…my statement was that deficit has to be financed by borrowing. “This is the reason we have to bring deficit under control. I cited other countries to say they are going to lending agencies.” Astwood accepted the clarification and went on to express his disappointment in efforts to stimulate the economy, According to him, there are viable alternatives that need not be more taxes. “The Government has not 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

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

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

Fact or Fiction? A HIGH level delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recently staged a fact finding mission to the Turks and Caicos Islands to gauge the level of democracy within the territory. The mission was in direct response to a war of words between the Premier of the TCI, Dr. Rufus Ewing, and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), Secretary of State, William Hague last year. Ewing had voiced his commitment to achieving independence for the TCI and Hague accused the Premier of substantially misrepresenting the past and present situation to the TCI people and CARICOM. What are your thoughts?

A point of view problem

The adage is there is never one side to the story. In the TCI's case there is the Government's side, the UK's side, the side of the stakeholder group that the mission spoke to (what in my view is not a broad enough base for them to get the truth) and then the final side is the truth. As far as I am concerned the problem with the entire mission was a point of view problem, particularly since you had people with their own self interests to advance that made up the group that interacted with the mission team. I don't think there is much to come from this mission.

Makes you wonder

This entire deal makes you wonder because the truth is not difficult to assess and the sense of wonder increases when you think who are these people that the mission talked to?

The facts are pretty clear: 1. The former administration messed up and they are being investigated (although there is something to be said of the independence of those 'investigations'); 2. The British stepped in, something many were grateful for at the time; 3. The Brits overstepped in many ways, one being the clear discrimination of the treatment of locals and foreigners. One of the earlier cases in point being when the Assistant Commissioner David Thomas Ryder got a slap on the wrist fine of $400 when charged with driving without due care and attention, an incident that resulted in the death of a Haitian girl days before she turned seven. A few months later, on a similar charge, a local got a year and a half in jail. As a result, the image of the UK took a major blow (being seen as worse than Mike Misick's time in some cases) and no matter that it is understandable that they have money riding on this whole affair; 4. The current administration wants more authority over local affairs and needs to put the

Man drowns off shore of Front Street in Grand Turk THE BODY of Peter Carter, was recovered by a local diver, Derek Astwood, last Thursday (June 27). Several children saw the 43-year-old North Back Salina man walking out to an area of water above his waist just off the shores of Front Street in Grand Turk. The body was located in five feet of water. Police public relations officer, Audley Astwood said the police responded to Front Street on Grand Turk after they got a call about a person in the water around 7.12pm on June 2. At the time of the initial call for emergency assistance, the caller stated that the man was last seen above water some 15 to 20 minutes prior. Special Constable Astwood said the man was walking in the water before plunging in. The children who witnessed the incident reported the matter to the police station after not seeing the man resurface. Astwood said investigators searched all the places the man could have gone if he swam to shore, but he wasn’t at any of those

Peter Carter

locations. He was later recovered with the aide of local diver Derek Astwood. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was immediately performed by a man on the scene and later by the ambulance personnel while en route to the Cockburn Town Medical Centre, but he remained unresponsive. He was pronounced dead by Dr. Braithwaite at 8.56pm. Foul play is not suspected and investigations are continuing, Astwood said.

UK in its place, but the entire approach to this is wrong, because of two major things: one, the TCI is nowhere near ready for independence; and two, the Government still has not proven itself to the people, case in point, the constant travelling by some Government Ministers who should be getting down to real work and actual deliverables. 5. There are real issues here and confrontation is not going to fix it, only working together will, as hard as that is. Bottom line, both sides have wrongs to account for, but the interests of the people must be placed first and foremost on politicians on both sides of the aisle who should not forget that the people put them there.

A serious issue

Independence is a serious issue for any country to take on. Maybe in the future but right now we are not ready. If we have to be adding taxes so fast to get the Budget up, we definitely are not ready. We don't have the means in place necessary to sustain us should we become independent. Some more thought and investigation needs to be done first. Besides we are not yet on good standing financially. There is a lot more that went on as far as illegal things that have this country the way it is right now. So who can we trust? The current Government has to close the gaps and really do some extraordinary things to get the country and its people believing that they can handle its affairs.

Never really had democracy

As a colonised place and a lost polity we have never really had real democracy. Under previous Governments, especially the PNP of 2003-09, investors and developers are allowed to pay to play and as such they set the rules of how this country is run. This dangerous paradigm remains in effect and the islands need an enlightened electorate that would place relentless pressure on their PDM and PNP leaders to stand up and fight for our people. Democracy cannot mean that we simply get to vote every four years and then we all sit aside while others get to benefit from the largesse of our country and lands. An extreme right wing, South African Apartheid like, US KKK South, model is now in place to deal with the allocation of lands and placed in the hands of the Attorney General's office. More so, systems, ordinances, policies and laws are designed so that the poor or hard working native would never see Crown land on a commercial basis again. This is not democracy and a situation that the now transitioning Great Nelson Mandela fought before the South African Apartheid regime which placed him in chains for 27 years. For fighting for his people he was placed away.

A legitimacy question

The Hon Premier Ewing is challenged more and more to expose the ills and wrongs of his

ill-fated PNP of 2003-09 before he can claim the crown of legitimacy on the independence debate. Likewise the Rt. Hon Hague lacks total legitimacy in reminding Ewing of his PNP's past, whilst the British government continues to perpetrate the worst acts of colonial raids on our people and their treasury. William Hague's UK Government continues to support the $260 million, as well as the $2.5 billion debt obligation on our people and a nasty hospital scam that creates revenue for British billionaires while our people pay. We may cry, scream, vote changes Governments, complain but as long as we pay the National Health Insurance Plan some $3m a month, the Treasury pays InterHealth Canada some $5m a month or $100m annually for over 25 years, there will be questions of how legitimate both arguments are.

Hidden truths

While they, the British or the PNP, find ways to increase our taxes, VAT at 11 per cent or the now 15 per cent customs fee, to pay for this scam, while the true numbers and rationale for this entire ordeal remains hidden and unknown, there cannot be democracy.

Trapped by debt

We are being raped, ripped and all with the blessings of the PNP and the British iron hand. Where these financial matters cannot be resolved we cannot realistically debate independence because the neo-colonial model of raping the poor man for the next 50 years remains in place. Most Caribbean societies are still paying the UK, US banks, UK banks, the world banks and in most cases 54 to 60 dollar of every tax dollar collected. Independent Caribbean nations are not free, not independent because of this model of raping them by debt. So there is little help the Commonwealth Caribbean can give the people of the TCI on the debate for independence because they like the TCI are debt trapped ad infinitum and it seems forever.

CARICOM talk-shop

When it comes to democracy they are all strangled. Most Caribbean academics decry CARICOM as a talking shop, a symbol of symbolism; an annual gathering where little gets done except some of the greatest speeches one could ever hear. CARICOM cannot help us because they are in the same problem we are in. Independence while these debt models which threaten us remain in place becomes a waste of time because we will still be obligated to the $2.5 billion to the British banker for the next 25 years.

 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

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Disbanded Financial Services Coordinating Committee a non-issue, Misick BY VANESSA NARINE INVESTMENT Unit Director and chair of the Financial Services Coordinating Committee, Rebecca Astwood, on Wednesday (July 3), advised the Financial Services Commission (FSC) that the Financial Services Coordinating Committee has been disbanded.

She said: “The Investment Unit will no longer be actively undertaking the marketing of the financial services at this present time and all current efforts and work for this sector has been halted. "As such the Financial Services Coordinating Committee marketing group will no longer be spearheaded or funded by the unit going forward.”

The Financial Services Coordinating Committee (FSCC) was established in May 2012 as a result of discussions with the Governor, the private sector and the FSC. The body main objective had been to propose and devise plans and activities that would serve to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as an attractive, well regulated financial services centre

New tax passes House continued 

performed or delivered to the people…I do not agree with their efforts,” he said. WASTING INCOME Selver stood for the second time to make clear his opposition to the new tax. He said: “I do not support this initiative…how did we get here?” The Opposition opined that income to the Treasury was being wasted. “We find that despite all this additional revenue, they (the Government) continue to borrow. The monies are not spent on projects for which they are raised,” he charged. Selver questioned how the TCI arrived at the position it is in now. He said: “We have seen a waste of the surplus that the Government has achieved on recurrent expenditures.” According to him, dollars are being spent to collect cents. Selver added: “We are doing a lot of work to collect cents…and to leave it to the conscience of merchants not to jack up prices, merchants who know you don’t have the will nor desire to address price control. “Over last years, no increase in wages on people and if the Government does not put in a minimum wage in place, nothing happens…year after year tax increases and purchasing power reduces.” He recommended that a poverty assessment be done to understand the plight of the people of the TCI, particularly those in the low income bracket. “This is what we need to look into, not take measures to increase the hardships of our people…when we are dealing with taxes, we must first check to see how it will impact those at the bottom...and if you can sleep with that, then go ahead,” Selver said. In response, the Minister quipped the Opposition Appointed Member sounded angry. He said: “You sound angry and I think we have to start looking forward. This business of looking back and blaming people has to

stop. It is time to go forward. “There is a lot of blame to go around and I am not about playing that game. I am about putting our heads together and getting things done for the country?” Misick added clarifications to statements he made, pointing out that on the issue of minimum wage a cost of living index, upon which a living wage review can be based, is being compiled. He said: “This Government has always said that this economy must be based on economic growth, but we still have to ensure that we have broad based and sustainable revenue system…we have to make sure we have sustainable levels of revenue to fund ourselves.” APPROACH All Island Elected Member, Josephine Connolly, turned the House’s attention to the approach of the current administration to raising revenue. She said: “I understand the difficult financial position we are in and that we have to pay our debt, but I do not accept that the only way to repay debts is to continually raise taxes until unreasonable demands are met…we have to get rid of the mentality that projects us as an economic basket case that only UK type taxes can save. “We have never had problems with our taxes before…the alternative is to grow this country’s economy the way we did between 1990 and 2005….the Government has been mislead and taxation is simplistic and dangerous.” Connolly added that the Government was not elected on a taxation platform. She said: “We must have more faith in our country and our people to grow this economy as we did before….the Government has to open doors and get rids of roadblocks to development “If they cannot do it, step aside and let people who can handle it, do it.” Missick in response suggested she “take a slide”. Derek Taylor, All Island Elected Member, echoed Connolly’s statements. He said: “The overall approach

to addressing these challenges must change, from engagement with the UK to recognition that people are really hurting.” Taylor added that understanding the dynamics of the TCI and sensitising the country's people is a must. He said: “It will be interesting to see how this turns out….the Government has a responsibility to be honest and forthright with the people….we cannot bury our heads in the sand, this will have an impact on cost of living and spin off effects. “We have to know what is going on with the people on the ground, the full dynamics of the situation. “Take another look at what is going on in the TCI and ease the burden on the people. “And if we are going to compete, take a look at what is going on and better understand our competitive edge. “The way we are going we are looking for trouble.” LACKING SUBSTANCE The final speaker in the hours-long debate was the Finance, Investment and Trade Minister. His major point of rebuttal was that the criticisms were lacking in substance. Misick said: “I listened very keenly for suggestions coming from the other side. “There were a lot of criticisms, but no one gave a single suggestion as to what they are prepared to support as an alternative….I think I have made a good case and been clear that this is temporary and that the Opposition will have an input in the new revenue system with the Blue Ribbon Commission.” He called for the entire House to support the bill. The Custom (Charge on Insurance and Freight) Bill 2013 was sent to the Committee of the Whole House to be considered. The committee wrangled over several amendments before passing. The bill was read for the third time in the House and MPs voted to pass the legislation in a 10 to eight vote.

among its global competitors. A statement from the FSC said: “The Financial Services Coordinating Committee was comprised of both public and private sector membership, including representation from the Governor’s Office, TCIG Investment Unit, the FSC and various Financial Industry Associations. "Following elections in the territory and the return to elected Government, the membership was extended to the Ministry of Finance. “In the first eight to nine months of its existence, the committee took on research work with expert assistance from Mrs. Sherri Ortiz from the BVI’s International Finance Centre. "It also discussed sustainable development for the financial services sector, and agreed that improved communications between all stakeholders within the industry and Government was key in identifying opportunities for the promotion of the Turks and Caicos Islands to key international markets. “Last month, through its sub marketing committee, the FSCC provided the Governor and the TCI Government with a marketing plan, which aimed to raise the visibility of the Turks and Caicos as a financial services industry jurisdiction with a clear message that the country was open for business.” DISPLEASED The FSC’s managing director, Kevin Higgins, expressed his displeasure at the decision. In an invited comment, he said: “A lot of effort had been put into establishing and funding this body. “The commission believes that the membership was adequate as it drew on a number of areas with crucial expertise for the development of the financial services industry. "It also offered the opportunity to draw together policy ideas, identify and overcome barriers to progress.

“As for the funding, the commission pledged in May 2012, that it would assist by providing the necessary expertise and covering a large portion of the costs incurred by the committee. “The commission has fulfilled its commitment and is indeed saddened to see a year of work discarded in this manner. “The commission remains ready to support the Financial Services Industry as it seeks to develop its product base and attract new clients to the Turks and Caicos Islands.” REGULATOR Asked to comment on the disbanding of the committee and the managing director’s comments, Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, Washington Misick, explained that the decision was a part of a wider effort to revamp the Islands’ financial services sector. “This is a non-issue,” the Minister stressed. He made it clear that the FSC is the sector’s regulator and reports to the Governor, both stipulations being clearly set out in the 2011 Constitution. The Minister stated that considerations are being given to a name change for the FSC, to the Financial Services Regulatory Commission, to better encapsulate the commission’s function. Asked about the committee’s work, Misick said he was unsure that any promotion actually took place. The Minister maintained that the revamping efforts will see a new structure that will address promotion of the local financial services industry, partnerships with practitioners and Government and the development, launch and marketing on new products for the sector. He said: “The Government is focusing on putting together a proper promotional agency, it may be a part of the new investment unit, all aimed at developing the economy.”

Police investigate gunpoint robbery in Five Cays OFFICERS of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force are investigating an incident that occurred in the new subdivision in Five Cays at about 4.20am on Monday (July 1) involving the discharge of firearms and other criminal acts. Police stated that investigations into the incidents have revealed that while travelling through Five Cays, a man and two women were flagged down by an unidentified male. The suspect, who is described as short and wearing dark clothing, then pulled the driver out of the vehicle and pointed a gun at him before demanding money. The driver started to flee and while running, the man fired several shots in the direction of the driver and one

of the two women in the vehicle. Police said the driver received a minor gunshot residue burn on his right arm and one of the females received a gunshot wound to her right thigh while the other female received no injuries. The trio subsequently fled the scene for the Five Cays Police Station where a report was made. According to the police report, the suspect drove away in the vehicle, but this was later recovered on Sand Bar Street with damages to the front and rear bumper and two apparent gunshot holes to the left driver’s side door and left passenger side door. Police said a Samsung Galaxy cell phone was also stolen. The investigation is continuing.

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

No review of InterHealth Canada contract until 2015 BY VANESSA NARINE MINISTER for Health and Human Services, Porsha Stubbs-Smith, told the House of Assembly on Tuesday (July 2) that the controversial InterHealth Canada contract cannot be reviewed until 2015. Stubbs-Smith’s report followed a question by the Member for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay, Edwin Astwood. He asked: “Will the Minister be pleased to update this House on the status of the review of the InterHealth Canada contract with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, and if there has been any progress, how will the findings from this review be used?” She explained that the agreement made provision for the contract to be reviewed after the first five years. According to her, the contract was made effective in April 2010 and as per the agreement will be subject to review in April 2015. Earlier reports put the date of the contract being signed two years earlier, in 2008. Former Governor Gordon Wetherell signed the contract in late 2008, following negotiations and decisions made by then Health Minister Lillian Boyce, Finance Minister Floyd Hall and Director of Medical Services, Dr. Rufus Ewing. Under the contract, the one major action taken in the year mentioned by the Minister was the establishment of the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP), which was done in April 2010. At that time, as per the contract, Ewing, as Medical Services Director, had the responsibility for managing primary care in the TCI, while InterHealth Canada took over the responsibility for hospital management and secondary care.

Minister Porsha Stubbs-Smith

Edwin Astwood

The Member for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay pointed out that the promise made by the current administration to the people of the Islands was to review the contract, not wait for five years. Stubbs-Smith told the House that a contract management team is currently in place conducting financial and clinical audits of the operations of InterHealth Canada. The last word on the audits was that they were still incomplete. Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, at a press conference in mid-June said the delay, as he understood it, was due to the lack of financial information being turned over from the hospital. However, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Jill Magri, told the Weekly News at the time that there was only a small percentage of information pending from the hospital’s side. “We have provided all 2012 and 2011 information and are in the process of providing the financial data from 2011,” she said. Neither she nor Ewing could commit to a timeframe for the completion of the audits.

The long due audits were only started this year, sometime around mid-February. Last October, the Premier noted that InterHealth Canada could have to forfeit on their contract with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), if it is found that they have breached performance clauses – something the financial and clinical audits will assess. The full document, which included 187 separate files and a mind boggling 7,665 pages, was leaked in August last year. The result of the contract was two two-storey hospitals – one in Provo with 20 beds and the other in Grand Turk with 10 beds that came at a high cost to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The ‘exit clause’ in the InterHealth Canada contract is reported to have penalty cost of $125 million, exclusive of the $125 million mortgage on the hospital buildings, which has a reported 12 per cent interest rate. If the mortgage runs its full 24year course, the buildings will have cost TCI residents half a billion dollars.

Patrolling of no go zones questioned in Parliament DEFENCE of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Economic Exclusion Zones (EEZ) was raised in Parliament on Wednesday (July 2). Elected Member for Blue Hills, Goldray Ewing, questioned whether or not the resources of the Mouchoir Bank are being protected. And Minister for Environment and Home Affairs, Amanda Missick, told the House that TCIG’s capacity to patrol the EEZ is limited. However, she noted that the bank is monitored by air, as well as by the Marine Police Branch. Ewing asked whether cheaper patrol methods are being considered, such as remote controlled drones. The suggestion drew muted laughs from the other side and Missick said the use of drones was not being considered. Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, rose to question when last the area was patrolled. The Minister stated that she could

not commit to a specific time, but assured the House that the area was being patrolled. She promised to make the information available at the next sitting of the Parliament. Ewing turned his line of questioning to the Attorney General (AG), Huw Shepheard. He asked: "How many police patrol boats there are in the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force Marine Branch; how many of them are operational; how many mechanics are with the police force to carry out maintenance to these vessels; whether or not maintenance of these vessels contracted out; and the number of officers in the Marine Branch." The AG said there are four vessels of various sizes, two of which are currently operational and the third expected to be operational soon. He noted that the fourth vessel is likely to be decommissioned,

but added that the police force is expected to apply for funding to secure a new vessel, as well as new engines for one of other three vessels. Shepheard added that there are four mechanics currently working with the force, along with two trainees. According to him, some maintenance works require specialised tools that are not available to the force and in these cases the maintenance works are contracted out. The AG stated too that there are 20 officers with the Marine Police Branch, 11 of whom hold Turks and Caicos Islander status, while the others are from St. Vincent, Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The AG’s comments, like the Minister of Environment and Home Affairs, indicated assurance that the EEZ is patrolled. (VANESSA NARINE)

July 6 - 12, 2013

TCI seeks reinstatement in Commonwealth group A MOTION for the Turks and Caicos Islands to reapply for reinstatement of its membership in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was read and seconded during the last sitting of the House of Assembly. Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, who presented the motion to the House stated that on approval of the application by the Executive Committee of the CPA, that the House agrees to abide by the provisions of the constitution of the Commonwealth Parliamentary

Association and that the required membership fee is paid to the CPA. The TCI lost its branch membership in the association on August 14, 2009, as a result of the suspension of the certain provisions of the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution by the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution (Interim Amendment) Order 2009 (U.K. S.I. 2009 No. 701). Prior to that the TCI had been a member for more than 25 years, the Premier said.

Permits now required to import animal and plant products THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture within the Ministry of Environment, Home Affairs and Agriculture has advised that all commercial and noncommercial importers now require a permit for the importation of all animal or plant products. As of May 1, 2013, importers of products that fall under rules governing the importation of controlled commodities and regulated articles must apply for a permit prior to importing their goods. The Controlled Commodities (Animal Health Ordinance 2012) are live animals such as cats and dogs or any species of animals; animal products and by-products such as pork, beef, poultry, eggs, milk and dairy products, cheese, fish and fish products. Regulated Articles (Plant Protection Ordinance 2012) include live plants, seedlings, vegetative stems, seeds for propagation, soil, cut flowers, fruits, vegetables, germ plasm, as well as used agricultural implements or machinery. This requirement is in accordance with Part 5, Section 34 of both the Plant and Animal Health Ordinances 2012. Under Part 5, section 34 (3) of both the Plant and Animal Health Ordinances 2012: “A person who imports, or attempts to import, a regulated article in contravention of this section commits an offence and is liable to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for two years, or both.” Import permits are integral to the Department of Agriculture’s bio-security measures that seek to protect and safeguard the health of the people, plants, animals, and environment of the TCI. In keeping with the Plant Health and Animal Health Ordinance (2012), the Turks and Caicos Islands Plant and Animal Health Divisions have conducted stakeholder sensitisation fora in Providenciales and Grand Turk to advise key stakeholders of the rules and regulations governing the importation of plant and animal products. The implementation comes seven months after the November 1, 2012, enactment of the new Ordinances giving stakeholders time to familiarise themselves with the new processes.

The Animal and Plant Health Divisions, in the Department of Agriculture, will be responsible for enforcement. The divisions’ focus is to prevent the entry of serious diseases and pests of animals and plants from coming into the country; facilitate the safe trade of imported commodities, protect public health through veterinary public health measures, and guarantee a safe food supply by ensuring that locally produced and imported foods (animal and plant products) meet internationally accepted standards. These efforts are expected to bolster efforts to prevent the direct effects of zoonotic diseases on our population and to ensure food security. The requirement of permits for importation is also expected to support the protection of the environment by invasive species of plants and animals that could harm native flora and fauna. Imported products can carry with them certain risks based on their origin (bacterial and viral diseases of animals and insect and fungal of plants). Many of these are foreign to this country. The new requirement is one of the more recent biosecurity measures taken. Biosecurity is any practice that precludes the entry and spread of disease causing agents into the Turks and Caicos Islands. More specifically, it concentrates mostly on the sub-category, bioexclusion - those practices geared at keeping disease causing agents out. The Animal and Plant Health Divisions are charged with maintaining and implementing the various biosecurity measures by establishing international sanitary and phyto-sanitary standards for importation of commodities that are coupled to the system of import permitting and a fulsome programme of inspections at the ports of entry where these commodities come in. Importation of Controlled Commodities and Regulated Articles into the Turks and Caicos Islands without an import permit is an illegal importation and goods can be subject to seizure and or destruction.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Education consultation can fix the glitches in the system - Missick Premier Ewing with stakeholders at the meeting

Premier Ewing promotes TCI, Ontario collaboration PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing met with Ontario's Premier and Minister of Finance, Kathleen Wynne and Hon. Charles Sousa during his official visit to Toronto, Canada, to strengthen ties between the two countries. The meetings were part of the Caribbean Tourism Week of activities at which the Turks and Caicos was prominently featured. Premier Ewing outlined to Premier Wynne, who is also Minister for Agriculture, the strong financial ties between the TCI and Canada as represented by three of Canada's major commercial banks - Scotia Bank, RBC Royal Bank and CIBC First Caribbean - as well as Fortis TCI, InterHealth Canada and the many Canadian owned resorts in the TCI. Premier Ewing also discussed opportunities for collaboration between the two countries and how Canada, in particular the Province of Ontario, can be of assistance to the TCI. A TCIG press release advised on the issues which dominated these discussions. These were: “The provision of technical assistance in the area of agriculture, including policy development, training and personnel for in country support. "The provision of educational opportunities for TCI students in Canadian Universities on a subsidised basis and the development of relationships with the TCI Community College and participation in the development of

the Turks and Caicos College Park project. “The provision of in-service training opportunities for Turks and Caicos Islands civil servants in Canada. "Opportunities for Canada's participation at the technical level in the many TCI infrastructural projects such as the Caicos Causeway and deep water harbour and opportunities for increase trade and commerce between the two countries in the various sectors that the Turks and Caicos Islands is committed to diversifying into, particularly light manufacturing and fisheries,” the release read. Both Premier Wynne and Minister Sousa were very receptive to the various opportunities for collaboration and assistance and both have committed to look into the plans and requests. Premier Ewing expressed thanks to Premier Wynne and Finance Minister Sousa for the opportunity to meet and discuss the many issues of importance to the TCI and is anticipating future discussions and actions. The Premier also met with Ontario’s Opposition Leader, Hon Tim Hudak with whom he had discussions on similar issues and is also anticipating his support for the issues discussed. “I would like to publicly express sincere condolences to the families who have lost love ones and properties during the on-going floods in Calgary Alberta,” Premier Ewing said.

DR women on drugs, unlawful entry charges YOHANNA Carolis Rodriquez, 33, and Wendy Margarita Vargas Bveno, 28, both of the Dominican Republic have been charged with unlawful entry, a police crime report said. Rodriquez was charged separately with possession of a controlled drug. Police have also charged 35-year-old Yohany Antonio Cabrel with two counts of assisting illegal entry, one count of possession of controlled drugs

with intent to supply and one count of possession of controlled drugs. The charges are relating to an incident alleged to have taken place on Wednesday (June 26) in Providenciales. Cabrel, Rodriquez and Bveno are presently being detained at the detention centre. They appeared in Providenciales Magistrates Court on Wednesday (July 3) to plea to their respective charges.

MINISTER of Education, Youth and Sport, Akierra Missick is confident that the ongoing education consultation can and will contribute to fixing system glitches such as what recently transpired with the GSAT results. She told the media at a recent press conference that based on the public responses so far, it is understood and accepted that a system change has to take place. “And now seeing what is happening with the GSAT results over the last two weeks, it is fair that there are systematic inaccuracies that we need to address. "I think it works well with the education consultation because we are able to address our minds to these systematic failures and ensure that whatever system we choose in moving forward would be able stamp out these sorts of events happening. "It should not be so subjective, there should be just a one objective view for everything,” Minister Missick stated. The systematic inaccuracy the Minister referred to was the placement of Divesh Aswani at sixth place with an 87.41 pass rate in the country’s top ten Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) performers, when in fact he had gained the marks for the second place slot. The discrepancy was reported

Minister Akierra Missick

by the Precious Treasures student’s parents, and was later discovered in the youngster’s mathematics paper one. In that paper he was initially marked as receiving 33 out of 50. The review resulted in an increase to 43 and Aswani’s ascension to second place. The Education Minister said: “There was found that, during the appeal process, some of the student’s marks were not included in the final results and given that that was the case, when the final marks were tallied again the student was second place.

“Now the first to tenth positions, the top ten students do remain the same, they have just now been moved around in the grouping. "So the student that would have been second is now third and moved down the chain like that.” Meanwhile, Missick noted that she is satisfied with the level of participation in the education consultation. “There was a lot of press about it, there were a lot of reminders on Facebook, we did a series of one and one interviews with the media, and all we can do is offer an opportunity for persons to take part in the discussions and we are quite happy with the turnout so far.” She advised that reports of the meetings which have already taken place are being put together by lead facilitator, Dr. Reverent Conrad Howell and his team and that during the summer there will be more stakeholder meetings after the Ministry has received a focal point at which the report will guide its attention. She further congratulated the 2013 graduating classes on their success, urging them to continue keeping their heads high and dreaming big. “Congratulations on behalf of my Ministry and the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands class of 2013.” (DI)

Appropriations Committee to scrutinise Budget THE LONG awaited Budget estimates are finally before the House of Assembly for review by the Appropriations Committee ahead of the anticipated Budget debate. Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, Charles Washington Misick, laid the document before the House during Tuesday’s (July 2) sitting of the Assembly. He said: “Of course events have overtaken that specific section of the Constitution and we are operating at a different timetable but in the spirit of the Constitution 115 subsection 2, it gives me pleasure to now lay this document on the table for the scrutiny of the Appropriation Committee.” The Minister pointed out that this is in accordance with the Constitution, under section 115, which states that at least six weeks before the beginning of each financial year, the Minister of Finance shall cause to be prepared and laid before the House of Assembly estimates and revenues of expenditure of the Government for the financial year

and the document setting out targets for review, revenue and expenditure for the next three financial years and an assessment of performance against debt, sustainability limits as set out in the framework documents published under section 109 (4) which is for the time being in effect and the House shall publish these estimates and the documents without delay. Following the adjournment of the House, members of the Appropriations Committee were advised to uplift the booklet. The Finance Minister said: “Before the House of Assembly considers the estimates laid before it under sub section 1(A), the Appropriation Committee shall scrutinise those estimates and make recommendations in relation to them to the House in sufficient time for the Appropriation Bill to be passed by the House before the beginning of the financial year in question.” Misick cautioned the members that the document is still a

confidential one. He said: “I would just appeal to members of the Appropriations Committee that it is still a confidential document, it has not been passed by the House and the purpose of it is really to scrutinise and make recommendations to the Government and I believe somewhere else in the constitution those recommendations can only relate to any reduction in expenses.” Other members of the House will receive their copies when the House sits next and the Appropriations Bill is placed on the order paper. Recently, Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, who chairs the Appropriations Committee, had voiced her concern at the length of time the Budget had taken to get the House of Assembly. She had attributed this to the late finalisation by Government and final acceptance of the FSPS by the United Kingdom. The hearings of the Appropriations Committee are expected to be held in public. (DI)

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

Beaches development agreement scrutinised in Parliament BY VANESSA NARINE THE OPPOSITION raised several questions that put the new development agreement between Beaches TCI and the current administration under scrutiny in Parliament on Monday (July 1). Member for Wheeland, Delroy Williams, questioned the Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, first on whether or not the granting of the beach access was part of the new agreement. Ewing said that it was a factor in the agreement, but made it clear that nothing has been confirmed as the negotiations are still ongoing. Williams questioned the reason for putting the beach access out for tender if it was part of the development agreement. The Premier explained that while negotiations are ongoing, the beach access could not be turned over to Beaches without going through the proper processes. At a press conference in the latter part of May, Ewing had stressed that his Government’s approval of the acquisition of the beach access remains independent of the Planning Board and Crown land requirements that Beaches has to meet before it can lease the land. The Opposition’s Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, asked about the details of the application

for the beach access. The Premier explained that there is no application for any freehold title, rather the application made is for a long-term lease. He said the application will be assessed with any other applications received, when the tender process closes on July 14. Selver asked how long the lease was for and the Premier speculated that it is possibly for 99 years, but could not confirm the period. The Opposition’s Appointed Member asked the Premier to confirm the status of the development agreement that is being negotiated with Beaches Resort and will supersede the 2006 agreement. Ewing acknowledged that the 2006 agreement has some conditions and benefits that his Government does not want to continue with and some that the developer wants to continue. He said: “We are still in talks…. we hope to reach an agreement soon.” Selver also asked about the expectations of both sides in the ongoing negotiations. The Premier stated that the expectation is that the issues both side have on the table come to a resolution that is beneficial to Government, the developer and the peoples of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Member for Wheeland, Delroy Williams questioned the reason for putting the beach access out for tender if it was part of the development agreement.

TAX ISSUES Selver went on to press the Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade on the calculation methods used for accommodation taxes for all inclusive properties like Beaches. Misick said: “One has to look back in time to see when these agreements were made. “Club Med’s agreement was in place since in the early 1980s, so they have certain exemptions, which would not normally be available today and I am not absolutely certain

Agriculture Department still without director NO APPOINTMENT has been made to the post of Director of the Agriculture Department, which has been vacant since the beginning of April this year when the former director, Nicholas Turner, resigned for personal reasons. When questioned in the House of Assembly on Tuesday (July 2), Minister for Environment and Home Affairs, Amanda Missick, said the post will be advertised again. Member for Blue Hills, Goldray Ewing, who brought the matter up in the House, also pressed the Minister about the status of the promised agriculture policy to advance the sector – a means of diversifying the Turks and Caicos Islands’ economy. Missick explained that the policy is currently in draft form and once the new director is appointed one of the first things to be done will be the review and modification of the policy, before it is brought to Cabinet and then tabled in Parliament. Also on the cards is the establishment of a Farmers’ Association – a decision that followed a visit by Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, and and his ministerial

team to North Caicos in January. The association is expected to support the administration’s agriculture policy. As part of the Government’s manifesto, going into office, economic and employment advances were promised through focus on agriculture and manufacturing, as well as processing and trade and shipment. In December, at the Joint Ministerial Council, which succeeds the Overseas Territories Consultative Councils, in England, the Premier stated that collaboration was sought not only between the UK, but with other Overseas Territories to advance economic diversification, a development that would include agriculture, deep sea fishing and offshore financial services. Ewing said then that there are useful policies which the other Overseas Territories have tried and tested that can be adopted by the TCI The country will also seek out other regional partners, such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for needs such as advancing agriculture.

The Premier maintained that his Government will give “focused attention” to diversification of the local economy through expansion of the fishing and agriculture industries and other secondary industries. The current Agriculture Department includes Director of Agriculture, an Agricultural Office, trainee and assistant, a Chief Plant Officer, a Chief Veterinary Officer and assistant, a Plant Health Office, an Animal Control Officer and assistant and two other support staff. In the 2012-2013 Budget some $353,574 was budgeted for the Agriculture Department’s recurrent expenditure, with some $371,253 allocated in 2013-2014 for the same. Under Uncommitted Prioritised Projects in the Budget some $100,000 was budgeted for agricultural development between 2012-2014. The final numbers as it relates to financing for the Agriculture Department is expected to be made public once the 2013-2014 Budget is debated in the House of Assembly this month. (VANESSA NARINE)

about the method of calculation, but I also do know that both Beaches and Club Med have paid less accommodation tax on their agreement. “We can look backwards at what happened in the past, it is also true that Provident Limited got half for very few… let us exaggerate it a bit and say they got it for a penny an acre, but the bottom line is unless that had happened maybe we wouldn’t have Provo today, so I don’t think we can

go back and second guess why things happened the way it happened. “Suffice it to say the method of calculation is different and it is based on the circumstances at the time, so am I happy? "I would like to be able to get more but the bottom line is some of these operations have special circumstances and without the concessions they wouldn’t be here creating jobs and paying even the level of taxes that they are paying.” Selver pressed on asking if this issue could be reviewed, particularly since negotiations on the a new development agreement with Beaches TCI is still ongoing. The Minister said: “There have been several agreements, the latest one is 2006, what I can tell you is the Government is currently renegotiating certain terms of the 2006 agreement to try to make it more favourable for the Turks and Caicos. “By the same token, like them or love them, they are a huge operation and have contributed significantly to the economy of the Islands, including the airlines that fly in here. "We wouldn’t have the number of airlines flying in here so we have to be very, very careful we don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.” Beaches TCI is one of the largest employers on Providenciales.

Premier off to CARICOM Heads of Gov’t meeting THE NEXT Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government meeting began on Wednesday (July 3) in the capital of the twin island republic, Trinidad and Tobago. And Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, left the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday (July 2) to attend. The 34th meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government is expected to focus on the effects of the sluggish economic climate on member states of the Caribbean Community and the framework within which the community can achieve growth and development amidst the current environment. The Heads of Governments of the 18-member body and its associate membership are also scheduled to discuss issues relating to the region’s slow recovery from the global economic crises; the heavy debt burdens of some members and the effects policies by international financial institutions have had on the economies of CARICOM. The recent fact-finding mission to the Turks and Caicos Islands is also scheduled to present its

findings at this meeting of the heads. The mission to the TCI was directed by the Community Council - the second highest organ of the community - to review the situation in the territory in light statements made by the Premier at a similar forum in February this year relating to the state of democracy in the Islands and a statement from former Secretary of State, William Hague, charging that Ewing misrepresented the issues while at the meeting, which was held in Haiti. TCI is an associate member of CARICOM. It is anticipated that the heads of governments will also explore options for a new direction for the body during this 34th meeting, which marks the community’s 40th year of existence since the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas in July, 1973. Deputy Premier and Minister of Education Youth and Sport, Hon. Akierra Missick will act for Premier Ewing during his absence. The team will return to the TCI on July 7.

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Fiscal framework will be reviewed, Misick ALL Island Elected Member, Josephine Connolly, questioned whether any public consultation on the fiscal framework document for public finance will be done before the Budget debate. The Finance, Investment and Trade Minister noted that as it relates to public financial management, the 2011 Constitution makes clear that: “The Government shall, after public consultation in the Islands, formulate a framework document stating its principles of public financial management which sets - (a) limits on levels of public debt relative to public revenue; (b) limits on debt service costs as a proportion of total public expenditure; and (c) levels of reserves relative to public expenditure.” That said, he acknowledged that there is an obligation of the Government to conduct consultation and assured that this will be done. According to him, it is the Government’s intention to review the fiscal framework document, which has to be prepared after stakeholder consultation. Misick added that as it stands the current framework has a lot to do with the loan guarantee signed with the UK. As to the timing on the consultation, the Minister said there is no intention to have a new framework prepared and debated before the 2013-2014 Budget comes to the House of Assembly for debate. The fiscal framework was agreed on by the interim administration and aims to build on the longstanding

United Kingdom’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office borrowing guidelines for its Overseas Territories and the Framework for Fiscal Responsibility (FFR). It covers broad principles of good financial management, including transparency, accountability risk management and measurement; standardised borrowing limits (FCO borrowing guidelines), which are specified as needing to be complied with by a certain date; (a) net debt must be less than 80 per cent of revenue; (b) debt service must be less than 10 per cent of revenue; and (c) liquid assets must be greater than 90 days of expenditure; a National Economic Plan; capital project procurement; and partnership with the UK, including exchange of public finance information. The management framework outlines its focus as being committed to: creating a vibrant and sustainable economy; enhancing tourism and financial services as the twin pillars of the economy whilst diversifying alternative sectors; and creating opportunities for Turks and Caicos Islanders. It also addresses the restoration of prudent fiscal management and creation of an environment in which people and businesses can plan with confidence, through: controlling Government expenditure; limiting new borrowings; re-aligning the revenue base; improving the performance of statutory bodies; and reducing costs by working in partnership with the private sector. (VANESSA NARINE)

Bill to facilitate Health Authority Board being drafted THE HEALTH Authority Board is likely to be established within another six months, according to Minister for Health and Human Services, Porsha Stubbs-Smith. Opposition’s Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, questioned the delay in the House of Assembly on Tuesday (July 2). The Minister explained that the draft document is with the Attorney General’s (AG) Chambers awaiting finalisation. Once this is done, the document is expected to be taken to Cabinet before being brought to Parliament. The AG, Huw Shepheard, added further clarification on the delay and explained that the draft document was prepared by a legislative drafting team, whose work was funded by the European Union (EU), but needed clear

policy choices to be made before finalisation. “When that is done we will complete it shortly,” he said. Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, questioned whether the AG was waiting on the Minister for the decision on these policy choices. The AG noted that he was unsure as to whether the instructions had been given by the Minister. Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, also commented on the issue. He explained that the health regulation authority board reviews the operations of the entire health sector, hospital and professionals. The Minister for Health and Human Services assured that all efforts were being made to have the draft document completed so the board can be established.

NEWS 11

TWI records seized from former CEO Chuck Hesse – even as he denied its possession in court HIGH drama unfolded in the Supreme Court recently as Judge Margaret Ramsay-Hale ordered the seizure of documents relating to the affairs of Trade Wind Industries (TWI) from the home of sacked Chief Executive Officer of the company, Chuck Hesse. On Friday (June 28) eleven boxes of documents were confiscated from Hesse’s home following a directive by the Judge during a trial which saw the new operators of the Caicos Conch Farm bringing suit against the former GM for the return of the company books of accounts. During a four day trial which began on June 25, Hesse and his lawyer, Peter McKnight submitted to the court that Hesse was not in possession of the documents being sought. However, the Judge pointed out during the hearing that Hesse knew he had documents belonging to the company, that TWI was aware of this too and that these documents were produced by him in hearings of the Labour Tribunal in which he is involved. Following the trial, TWI chairman John Hartley told the Weekly News that he was confident of judgment in their favour. “He (Hesse) is standing there telling the Judge he doesn’t have documents and he is introducing them to the other judge in the labour tribunal, so she gave instructions for the documents at his home to

be collected and eleven boxes were found.” Hartley said that about 55 gigabytes of information on a disk were also retrieved, but that these have to be examined. The chairman added that Hesse also told the court that Richard Berke, the new CEO of TWI, had removed the documents and destroyed them. It is still to be determined if the alleged destroyed documents are the ones which were taken from Hesse’s home. Judge Ramsay-Hale is expected to deliver a ruling in the matter shortly. Meanwhile, during the trial it was alleged that the former CEO had taken the documents immediately or prior to his dismissal and eviction in 2011. The civil suit was brought by the board of directors; they are claiming that Hesse has in his position historical records that are vital to the proper and effective operation of the farm. Senior Attorney, Monique Allan, with the Saunders and Co firm, representing the litigant, in her presentations alleged that Hesse had produced the documents in other cases in which he is involved. She had submitted that there is evidence put forward by Hesse himself that the documents are in his possession and that his denial of any books of company is a lie. On direct examination, one witness testified that he was given

mostly emailed versions of company documents by Hesse when he approached him for advice after his dismissal. However, when cross examined by Hesse’s attorney the witness admitted to some uncertainty as to when exactly the documents were produced to him. He was subsequently sent away to retrieve the actual dates of receipt. In his testimony, Hartley stated that the company is in a position whereby it does not even know who its share holders are because of the lack of the historical documents, which includes minutes of shareholders meetings among other pertinent documents. He told the court that the books of accounts of the company were missing and had not been seen since Hesse’s dismissal. Hartley testified that these documents would give a true and clear view of the company’s position. The chairman also told the court that the only minutes the company has, are from October 2011 when the new board took control. During a contentious cross examination Judge Ramsay-Hale had occasion to caution Hartley on his tone and responses to questions posed by McKnight. McKnight also attempted to pry out of Hartley, his reputation in the business community around the world; however this was determined by the Judge as not germane to the questions before the court. (DI)

Civil recovery team 'acts as my agents' – AG ATTORNEY General, Huw Shepheard, told the House of Assembly on Monday (July 1) that those involved with the Civil Recovery Programme (CRP) “act as my agents”. His response was prompted by Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, who asked the AG to say who is providing a supervisory role over the civil recovery team. She said: “Will the AG be pleased to… categorise the relationship with the Chambers and civil recovery team; say who receives the legal bills from the civil recovery team and whether there is a vetting of the bills to ensure value for money; and say who determines whether or not the bills should be paid.” The AG noted that he is aware of all actions made by the team and, by

extension, the ensuing bills for work done. While the investigations being conducted under the CRP are subject to the decisions of the AG, those of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) are subject to decisions of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), JoAnn Meloche. When asked, the AG, through the Governor’s Spokesperson, Neil Smith, confirmed to the Weekly News, in the latter part of May, that the final say on whether the civil and criminal matters are prosecuted are with the AG’s and DPP’s offices. The AG decides on whether or not to pursue civil recovery cases, particularly since the majority of the matters deal with land and the Crown Land Unit falls under the purview of his office; and the DPP has the final

say on pursuing criminal matters. Smith explained that the SIPT is working with the DPP’s office and Edward Wildman Palmer (EWP), the international firm undertaking TCI’s CRP, was awarded the contract by the AG’s office and as such the firm is working with the AG. He said: “It is not a case where they (the CRP and SIPT) will not look into particular matters, but the cases that become public are ones that they think are in their favour… if they think they cannot win a case, they will not pursue it, which is the best use of taxpayers’ money.” Two of the main criticisms of the CRP and SIPT investigations, aside from the costs, is the independence of the investigations and the fact that certain cases that should be pursued are being overlooked. (VANESSA NARINE)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 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.

GSAT – A hit and miss in the TCI

Dear Editor, The sometimes student-feared Grade Six Aptitude Test (GSAT) was studied, taken, graded and publicly announced this past month. And for a moment the skinning stars – the top ten of the Turks and Caicos Islands were interviewed, photographed and presented on the streets, and in all of the local media,

both television and radio. Very sad though, the public really did not know which student really had their correct ranking! What happened?

Errors were made. Review of grading was requested. Errors were found. Corrections were made. Significant ranking changes resulted.

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

Jumping from eighth to second place is a very far stretch! Yes, jumping from eighth to second place is what was told to the parents’ of a very sad disappointed child. Simple, the scores were incorrectly tabulated, and consequently, the incorrect ranking resulted. A mere apology was sent out informing the parent of the lapse. Jumping from eighth to second places, and, what happens between seventh and third places? Musical chairs resulted, and all of the embarrassment to children, parents, teachers, schools, the Ministry, and to the country! That must not happen again, ever. Our students expect much better out of the staff that are entrusted to teach, evaluate and lead.

GSAT administration

For the general readership, one would think that since GSAT is a regional exam throughout the entire Caribbean, its state and being would

and should be one of a TCI national interest, and that requisite security would not only be placed on its physical custody, but on its timely and correctly administering. Therefore, extreme case should be placed to demonstrate value. That means initial grading, review grading and final sign-off grading. If at any time this review is compromised, then administering/ security fail.

How could this happen?

Human error would be the best explanation. I would say human mistake; or simple, a well unintended mistake (I hope). But how can we have such mistakes when these GSATs are so important in the lives of our intending junior to senior high school students. The GSAT in school progression is like becoming of age to some. And to others, it is the apex of evaluation of the past years in school, determining if they are worth to go to high school. And for a very select few – a free high school education at a school of choice. Anything less is a clear indication of neglect on behalf of the administration, and indirectly, we

COMMENTARY

Recognizing Competition THE idea that Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is unique and free from competition in what it offers visitors has two aspects. We have the attraction of Beaches and other high end resorts poised on Grace Bay Beach and we have the expanse of the family islands and their important historical and intact ecological attractions. Make no mistake and remember most visitors travel here to TCI through Florida, which has more history, more attractions and are less expensive. The Florida Keys, Everglades, two coast lines, miles of beaches, special interior, Cape Canaveral, the pan handle and Orlando's Mickey Mouse this state is visited by millions each year and has become home to millions of retirees and immigrants.

By David Tapfer We have no desire to promote Florida over TCI because Florida has its drawbacks; crime and high taxes including hospitality, sales and property tax. While Americans do not need a passport to visit Florida and can arrive via the beautiful interstate highway system of President Eisenhower this causes crowding and a certain sameness.

SPACE IS LIMITED!

However make no mistake Florida is popular. What then do we have to offer? The charm of distance and the attraction of a British/West Indian culture closer than the Eastern Caribbean? What are we doing to insure our position, our charm? Throw out the British, install property taxes, sales taxes, raise hospitality and travel expenses. Crime here is on the rise targeting in some cases visitors? The PNP has ignored the family islands, the National Trust and dredged away the environment. Last week our Premier was in conference with Canada and we need to ask if this is a good thing? We have two children and three grands in Nova Scotia so we understand what is good in that

northern place. We did business in Canada throughout our career. Let is examine our Canadian connections: Inter-health Canada is killing our economy with its cost and has failed to provide the promise of broad secondary care; our Canadian run police has failed to control crime and instead charges tourists in the now infamous planted bullet cases. They have not solved one murder case left over from the Ed Hall years; our Canadian power supplier builds itself a palace of an office building but cannot investigate renewable energy, purchase more efficient generators or keep the power on 24/7 to North/Middle Caicos. Basically we are being ripped off by Canadians and our Premier wants more? He was said to be central in

failed our stand-out students!

Failure and corrective action

It is not sufficient just to make the corrections. This is not just a TCI problem. The repercussion is and will be a rippling one that will impact not just the TCI, but ultimately, the entire educational system becomes suspect. So reassurance by the Ministry of Education must be given, that the grading and required review are indeed fair, equitable, and at all times, free and fault. Taking the GSAT is not a hit and miss exercise. It is an exercise of scholastic aptitude and with its integrity and security intact, true performance can be measured. But to ensure integrity of the system, the Ministry must do its part by having the right staff to do the job right thereby preventing future occurrences. Our shining stars must remain shining and become beacons for the future of the country. Can we provide them an ideal system to work in? Regards, Edward E Smith

bringing Inter-health Canada here and now he demonstrates this truth. Forget the G8 meeting, not important, is our Premier's belief and he sends Minister Misick who has trouble recognizing right from wrong. We are not in competition with Britain. In fact the now infamous British guaranteed loan saved the PNP party from destruction and will cost Belongers and residents a serious rise in the cost of living. The latent attractions of Haulover Plantation, Armstrong Pond and Indian historical caves are ignored. Only Crab Fest and Valentine Day Regatta wake up the gorgeous Bambarra Beach. The schools of North and Middle Caicos have room to spare as people leave. Years of PNP mismanagement are now taking its toll. No one anywhere can compete with the beauty and history of Middle Caicos except the voters. They gave us Robert, Jeffrey and now Don Hue.

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

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 15

Heated exchange over use of ministerial statement time

BY VANESSA NARINE

THE DIFFERING views of the Government and Opposition on the use of the slot allocated for ministerial statements resurfaced on Monday (July 1) in a somewhat heated exchange in Parliament. Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, stated emphatically that the House’s business is guided by standing orders. Health and Human Services Minister, Porsha Stubbs-Smith, was the only Minister who delivered a ministerial statement on Monday. She was interrupted by the Elected Member for Blue Hills,

Goldray Ewing, who pointed out that the Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament (MPs), developed by the Integrity Commission, makes clear that ministerial statements ought to be submitted to the Opposition one hour before they are made. The House Speaker, Robert Hall, determined that the Minister could complete her statement. The Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, intervened. “We will stand our ground….this is an abuse of system,” he said. Selver added that the ministerial statement being made was also answering questions that were included on the agenda, the

Premier commits surplus funds for hurricane relief IT HAS been a few years since hurricanes Ike and Hanna hit the Turks and Caicos Islands, but those who suffered losses are still grappling with the devastation. Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, on Tuesday (July 2) in the House of Assembly, committed to supporting those who did not qualify for the assistance currently being provided by the European Union (EU). Some $6.5m (five million euros) was made available by the EU for the reconstruction or rehabilitation of properties, which met the criteria set for support, with particular focus on Salt Cay, Grand Turk and South Caicos.

According to the Premier, once the financial year ends with a surplus in March 2014, the support will be made available. He acknowledged the major impact of the hurricanes that left many “unable to recover”. Ewing’s response was prompted by a question from Opposition’s Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, who said: “Will the Premier be pleased to say if his Government is prepared to assist a single mother in Middle Caicos with essential repairs to her dwelling house as result of damages from both Hurricane Ike and Tropical Storm Hanna in 2008?”

New licence printing machine to be procured – Old machine causing the delays HOME Affairs Minister, Amanda Missick on Tuesday (July 2) informed the House of Assembly that the Department of Motor Vehicles is experiencing difficulties which are affecting production of licences. This was in response to a question posed by Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, who asked her whether the present delay experienced is caused by the inefficiency of staff or the lack of adequate equipment and supplies. Selver also wanted to know when people who apply for new driver’s licences can expect a turnaround. Missick replied that in the interim the department is utilising the skills and technology of the Information Technology Department to continue to process licences, though on a

limited scale. She said: “My ministry will seek to purchase new printers this financial year as a long term solution to the problem. "Despite the constraints, staff continue to work diligently, it is hoped that once the printers are purchased and installed the average turnaround time for the public to receive licences will be approximately one week.” The Opposition member further inquired from the Minister if they will consider prioritising the provision of licenses for students going abroad as they need a documentation to obtain their licences when they leave. Missick, however, stated that it is a matter of first come, first serve as the department already has backlog due to the printing problems.

inappropriate time for provision of those answers. The Speaker agreed that it was not appropriate to answer questions before they were asked, but allowed the Minister to finish her statement. Hall said recommendations will be made to deal with the problem. The Premier rose on that point to make clear his position on the matter. He said: “This is the legislative arm of Government, this is the House of Assembly…when we have other institutions making provisions on how we conduct business in our House of Assembly, it goes beyond the very fibre of democracy…. standing orders are what we go by, not ministerial code of conducts. “Ministerial Code of Conduct has to do with ministers and how ministers conduct Government business on a day to day basis, but when it comes to this House of Assembly, this is the people’s House, this is our House and the standing orders guide our conduct in this

House. “Unless I see something in standing orders that say we must provide ministerial statements to members on the other side prior to us delivering it then I will comply with it. “But until I see that I will not comply with that.” The Opposition Appointed Member rose on a point of clarification. He pointed out that not only are MPs bound by a Code of Conduct, but also the Statement of Governance Principles (SOGP). The House Speaker accepted his comments, but noted that he is bound by the standing orders that guide Parliament’s operations. “Your concerns can be taken up at different forum,” Hall said. The issue of misuse of the time allocated for ministerial statements was first raised in early May. Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, said then that Government Ministers

are also misusing the House’s time, hardly ever completing the agendas that guide the session’s conduct. She pointed out that the slot of time assigned for ministerial statements is being “abused” by Government MPs who launch into litanies that could be made at different forums. When asked for a response to these criticisms, the Premier called for the Opposition to “stop complaining” and made it clear that there was adequate time to address the business of the House. Ewing said: “The ministerial statement is a provision where we exercise our prerogative and we will continue to give it. "In the interest of time some Ministers will not give a statement… we as Ministers have the obligation to give a complete picture of what is happening….I am sure public appreciates this. "Sometimes even the press conferences do not have the time to give a whole picture.”

Missick clears the air on long line fishing BY VANESSA NARINE THE LONG line fishing issue has created a stir from the time it was made public, but Minister for Environment and Home Affairs, Amanda Missick, cleared the air on the issue in Parliament on Monday (July 1). Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, queried the value of the long line fishing study. Missick made it clear that the twoyear study is not entirely focused on long line fishing, rather it is pelagic study that looks at long line fishing among other types of fishing, to determine the economic viability of pelagic fishing in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) recently secured funding from a United Kingdom source that will allow for the study in the TCI’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). According to her, currently the fishing industry focuses on conch and lobster and this study will inform the diversification of the industry. Missick pointed out that fish like tuna and snapper are for the most part imported for use in local restaurants and the outcome of the study will have multiple benefits, including the improvement of livelihoods of fishermen and the revival of

economies in the family islands. The Opposition Leader questioned the obligation of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) under the agreement. Missick explained that TCIG has no financial operations under the agreement, except for Director of Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) to monitor study. She stressed that the study can be halted at anytime if deemed detrimental. The Minister added that in these economic times, the outcome of the study will be a good boost to the economy, particularly since it will have a multiplying effect. She said the benefits will be the raw data on species abundance in the EEZ, which will be analysed by DEMA to determine whether or not to set up pelagic fisheries in the TCI. Cartwright-Robinson honed in on specifics of the study and asked about particulars of the scientists conducting the study. Missick explained that two South Caicos companies, Caicos Pride and Dayboat Seafood, are responsible for bringing in people to do studies. Her response confirmed earlier concerns raised by the Opposition Leader that commercial entities were leading the study, rather than scientists; the problem being the possibility that the study will be

profit-driven, not science based. Cartwright-Robinson ended her line of questioning by asking about the value of the fishing industry in the TCI. The Minister said the industry is the second largest in the country and has immeasurable value, particularly with the prospect of a pelagic fishing industry opening opportunities for diversification. Missick noted that exports are valued at some $5m annually, but acknowledged that a quantitative valuation has not been made. However, she stated that this could be done if funding was available. The Opposition Leader asked if a bid for such a study will be considered seriously, given that the fisheries sector is second largest in the country The Minister said yes and reiterated the value of pelagic study. Pelagic fish live near the surface or in the water column of coastal, ocean and lake waters, but not on the bottom of the sea or the lake and pelagic fishing is contained to fish inhabiting this section of open water, which usually contains no plants or structure. The study was slated to begin in May, but was delayed to June. Fisheries fall under the responsibilities of the elected Government, and further decisions on the subject falls to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Environment.

16 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

this week

Friday, July 5 to Saturday, July 13 Friday, July 5 Danny Buoy’s is Provo’s premier live music and sports destination, serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30am. It is the perfect place to escape from the heat and hang with friends, all in smoke free air-conditioned comfort. Happy Hour specials from 4-7pm Monday-Saturday Get into the weekend mood with the intense and electrifying Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm. Free for fitness members, $12 for non-members. Visit www.gracewaysports.com for more information or call 442-6349. Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 946-8666 for details

Saturday, July 6

4th Annual "Race for the Conch" Eco-SeaSwim on beach in front of Rickey's Flamingo Cafe in Grace Bay. Races include: 1 mile and 2.4 mile events plus 100 meter Children's Swim. Provo Primary Summer Camp – The school is offering a wide range of amazing programmes this summer to keep your child learning, active and having fun. Toddler/Preschool Taster Sessions: 14mths to 2 yrs. Summer Camps: 2 -5 year olds: Early Years Summer Fun Camp 2013 and 6+ year olds: School/Roller Hockey/Summer School Camps 2013.

July 6 - 12, 2013

Fourth quarter returns $4.2m net cash surplus THE TURKS and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) remained on course and has met its strategic objective of returning to a surplus for the Financial Year 2012/13. Numbers released by the Ministry of Finance show an increase in recurrent revenues by two per cent to $48.8 million the last quarter, when compared to the fourth quarter result for 2011/12. Recurrent expenditures totalling $37.9 million, which included the 10 per cent reinstatement of civil servants salary, on the other hand decreased significantly in quarter four, by 25 per cent, when compared to same period of the previous year. This resulted in a recurrent surplus of $10.9 million for the quarter. Non-recurrent revenues for the quarter totalled approximately $12.6 million while non-recurrent expenditures totalled approximately $13.6 million, including capital expenditure of $6.6 million. Through capital expenditure, this quarter, TCIG was able to settle many of the disputes regarding the airport land acquisition totalling $1.4m, gain ownership of the North Caicos Deep Harbour Port for $1.6m, continue repairs to the Causeway $0.5m and spent a total of $0.2m towards the Reverse Osmosis (RO) Plant. The overall cash operating surplus of $30.5 million for the fourth quarter, which was used to fund debt service repayments of $1.3 million, other debt payments of $0.5 million and a transfer to the sinking fund of $25.4 million. Bond repurchase inflows for the quarter totalled $0.9 million. The resulting net cash surplus for the fourth quarter is $4.2 million,

representing a threefold increase when compared to that for the same period in financial year 2011/12. Looking at the entire year, a recurrent surplus of $32.5 million was recorded, as opposed to that of $0.6 million for 2011/12. This was attributed to a five per cent ($8 million) increase in total recurrent revenues (to $179.0 million) and a decrease in total

recurrent expenditure (to $146.6 million) by 14 per cent or $23.8 million when compared to same in 2011/12. The full year results also saw an overall operating cash surplus of $52.9 million, used for debt service repayments totalling $11.8 million, other debt payments $2 million and transfers to the sinking fund totalling $41 million.

Police warn against making hoax calls OFFICERS of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police are warning young people of the dangers of making hoax calls to emergency services. The advice not to waste police time comes as schools throughout the TCI prepare to close for the summer holidays. Officers are reminding young people that if they make repeated nuisance calls to police they could be prosecuted for wasting police time and made to reimburse emergency services for any cost incurred to follow up on a hoax call. Police public relations officer Audley Astwood, said: “Public reporting is an important part of the fight against crime and any attempt to disrupt this service will be investigated thoroughly. "Every time someone misuses the ‘911’ emergency call number they are potentially putting others’

lives at risk. "This is especially true when we receive a large number of nuisance calls as it could impact on how quickly other emergency calls are answered. "This behaviour is unacceptable and we will continue to actively pursue those who make malicious calls." Earlier this year representatives from the force visited schools throughout the entire country speaking to pupils about nuisance calls and also when to call 911. On average, RTCI police receives 100 calls per day on the 911 number that are not genuine emergencies. Residents are advised to only call 911 in a real emergency when a crime is happening, when someone suspected of a crime is nearby or where someone is injured, being threatened or in danger.

If you are looking for a serene and relaxed way of starting your weekend, bring your yoga mat at Graceway Sports Centre every Saturday at 9am and let David Bowen lead you into the wonderful world of yoga! Amazing fees for an amazing class! More info at 442-6348. Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at Graceway Sports Centre for mothers and their little ones. Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake! Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome! Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

Tuesday, July 9 Every Tuesday - sweet fingers at Horse Eye Jacks' Fish House & Real Beach Bar. Fun starts from 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Come out for the best in classic rock, blues and R&B music on the island. POINT GRACE presents Native Cuisine Night with music by local artist Correy Forbes. Satisfy that longing for native food in an elegant setting, accompanied by live local music.

Saturday, July 13 TCI Red Cross presents its Inaugural Charity Cup. Fun starts at 11:00am at the Kids Park in the Bight. Come support local charities as they compete for the grand prize. (Admission: Adults: $3 and children $1)

Got an event you wish to advertise? Call us on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com for a free listing.

An overview of a section of Providenciales

Aerial survey of Provo part of hurricane preparations AS PART of their hurricane preparations, Acting Governor, Anya Williams, and Desmond Lightbourne of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies

(DDME) got a bird's eye view of the TCI's most populous island. The aerial tour was provided by the HMS Lancaster, which is supporting all six UK overseas territories in the

region during hurricane season. The vessel’s Lt Craig Farquharson was one of the two-man crew piloting the helicopter, also named HMS Lancaster, used for the aerial tour.

Premier promises action on National Agenda

ELECTED Member for Blue Hills, Goldray Ewing, followed through on concerns that there has been no movement on the issue by the current administration to advance a National Agenda, in Parliament on Tuesday (July 2). The House widely supported a motion to develop a National Agenda, a proposal to position the TCI for sustainable progress, on May 16. Ewing recommended to the House that the Government develop a National Agenda which will be produced following a National Symposium with members of the House of Assembly and leaders in both the public and private sector. Among the issues for inclusion on a National Agenda, Ewing pointed to: the need for a population policy; empowerment of indigenous Turks and Caicos Islanders; border control and immigration issues; education, sports and culture; and investment in technology. On Tuesday, he asked Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, about the time frame for moving forward with the National Agenda. The Premier acknowledged that

the motion raised is considered of national importance. He explained that a number of the initiatives mentioned in the May 16 motion form part of his party’s manifesto and will form part of his Government’s national plan. The Premier said: “The intention will be to ensure the national development plan forms the basis of the symposium for the National Agenda.” He stressed that this approach is being taken in the interest of being cost effective. The Member of Blue Hills asked if the body will include representation from both public and private sectors. The Premier made it clear that there will be wide stakeholder consultation. However, he pointed out that any advance on this matter will be made once the Budget is approved by the House of Assembly. The Member for Blue Hills maintained that appointment of a committee for the symposium to inform the National Agenda will provide most, if not all the answers to top issues of the day. (VANESSA NARINE)

Acting Governor meets senior US officials in Nassau ACTING Head of State of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Anya Williams, reaffirmed the territory’s links with the US at one of the most important regional Independence Day celebrations at the US Embassy in Nassau on Wednesday (July 3). Williams was the guest of the US Chargé d’Affaires and Mrs. John Dinkelman, and the Commanding General ofNorth American Air Defence (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) General and Mrs. Charles Jacoby, Jr. Together they celebrated the 237th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America at the Old Fort Bay Club, West Bay. Williams said: “I am very pleased to continue our dialogue with them at this formal US celebration in our nearest US Embassy, in Nassau. “This helps further build the relationship that has seen the Chargé d’Affaires and other US officials make a number of recent visits to our territory. "US officials attended the TCI

NEWS 17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

House of Assembly swearing in ceremony, conducted a briefing session for the new Government on US-TCI joint working, and we also saw the opening of a new US Consular presence in the TCI. “We will continue to work together on vital joint initiatives too such as the Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos joint narcotics interdiction operation, or OPBAT, which operates out of Great Inagua too.” General Jacoby’s responsibilities include conducting US homeland defence, civil support and international security cooperation across The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, the Gulf of Mexico, the Straits of Florida. He is also responsible for cooperation with Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas. TCI Attorney General Huw Shepheard was sworn in by Governor Todd last week to stand in as Acting Governor during Deputy Governor Williams’ time in the Bahamas. Governor Todd returns to the TCI on Tuesday, July 30.

CORRECTION THE HEADLINE ‘UN supports Bermuda governance model – Astwood’ on page 20 of the June 29 – July 5 issue was incorrect. It should have read ‘Astwood states supports for Bermuda’s Independence Commission model’. The Weekly News apologises for the inconvenience caused.

Committee appointed to probe sale of Provo Water shares FIVE Members of Parliament have been chosen for a House Select Committee to examine shares sold to the Provo Water Company by the Government, following a call from All-Island Elected member, Derek Taylor. The motion calling for the investigation was passed on May 16, and during Tuesday's sitting, House Speaker, Robert Hall requested that Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, and Opposition Leader, CartwrightRobinson, suggest members to serve. He stated that while some members may feel that as Speaker he should appoint, it is only in the absence of the House that would be done. Serving from the Government's side will be: Member from South Caicos, Norman Saunders; and Government Appointed Member, Ruth Blackman; while Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver; and Member for Grand Turk, South and Salt Cay, Edwin Astwood were selected by the Opposition Leader. The Speaker further suggested

the Governor’s Appointed Member, Lillian Missick, as the fifth. Hall also informed the House that the provisions are that the committee members will elect the chair. The motion to launch the probe was passed with a seven to five majority vote. Two members abstained. Taylor in moving the motion had stressed that there should not be a monopoly on water given its importance. He had stipulated that the committee be formed to ensure that the divestment of the water shares was done in accordance with the conditions for managing the shares, as outlined by the European Union. Minister of Border Control and Immigration, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner and a number of other Government members had objected to the necessity of the select committee. Gardiner had voiced his skepticism that a House Committee was the way to go, asking why the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) cannot carry out the necessary

actions. Cartwright-Robinson had pointed out that this is outside the remit of the PAC and was backed up in her statements by Attorney General (AG), Huw Shepheard. Last December, Provo Water Company shares were sold for $7.5m; money which, according to Governor Ric Todd at the time, would go towards paying down debts. The Government’s 46 per cent shares in Provo Water Company were sold to the majority shareholder, Turks and Caicos Water Company. The sale is expected to reduce TCIG’s annual interest bill on its debt, allowing more of its recurrent income to be invested into key priorities such as health, education, maintenance and capital. According to TCIG, the agreed price, based on a valuation by Castalia LLC takes into account realistic future cash flows through to 2031, factoring in population growth, including a terminal asset value. (DI)

Greater regulation of businesses to come PEOPLE operating tattoo and body piercing businesses, as well as barber shops and salons are expected to see greater regulation. This was according to Minister for Health and Human Services, Porsha Stubbs-Smith, who was responding to a question posed by Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver, in the House of Assembly on Tuesday (July 2). He asked: “What is the Ministry’s policy with regards to persons operating tattoo and body piercing businesses?” The Minister noted that while there is currently no policy in place,

efforts are being made to work on such a policy. She noted that in the absence of the policy the Environmental Health Department should conduct spot checks on these entities. Selver further questioned how often these businesses are inspected for compliance with regulations or best practices and whether a certificate of compliance is issued for the benefit of the public. Stubbs-Smith explained that the need for regulation is recognised and over the years various ordinances were updated to ensure greater levels of

compliance. She said as it relates to restaurants, inspections are done regularly, twice a year, as well as any time concerns are brought to the department’s attention. The Minister added that the number of inspections per year is expected to be increased. All Island Elected Member, Derek Taylor, asked for numbers of the business that are subjected to inspections. Stubbs-Smith promised to make the numbers available at the next sitting of the House of Assembly. (VANESSA NARINE)

BAHAMAS 40TH ANNIVERSARY

COME AND BE APART OF THE CELEBRATION WEDNESDAY JULY 10TH, 2013 FUN STARTS AT 4PM CHALK SOUND WINE BAR, SOUTH DOCK ROAD

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July 6 - 12, 2013

Lifestyle... 18

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

The Dentist and you  Mark Osmond BDS (Lond) LDS RCS (Eng). Mark Osmond Dental Clinic - (649) 432 3777, drmosmond@gmail.com or Find us on Facebook

Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics) IN line with the international standards for endodontic treatment, at Mark Osmond Dental Clinic a new set of endodontic instruments is used for each individual patient. These instruments will then be stored under your name and reserved for your future use only. This mandate was put in place to reduce the risk of prior contamination and the chance of instruments breaking when in use. When is a root canal treatment performed? Root Canal treatment is performed to repair and save a tooth that is badly damaged either due to infection or

due to trauma. If a tooth is infected it is usually due to untreated dental decay which has eroded the enamel and dentine through to the root canal. Signs of pulp damage may include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling, tenderness of the gums or a bad taste in the mouth. However there may be no symptoms at all. What happens during treatment? During a root canal procedure, the infected nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed with a temporary filling. This is done using a local anesthetic

Peachy Chicken Salad Ingredients: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 2 large peaches, peeled and chopped 1/2 cup shredded carrots 1 cup shredded cabbage (Napa, red, green, or substitute broccoli slaw) 4 large Bibb lettuce leaves 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, toasted Dressing 1/4 cup champagne vinegar 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon minced shallots 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil 2 teaspoon honey 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Directions: 1. Heat grill pan or grill to medium-high heat. 2. Spray the pan or grill with cooking spray, and place the chicken on it. Grill 5 to 6 minutes on each side until done. 3. Shred or chop the chicken and add it to the mixing bowl along with peaches, carrots, and cabbage. 4. Place the dressing ingredients in a separate mixing bowl; whisk to combine. 5. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently. 6. Arrange one leaf of Bibb lettuce on each plate. Divide the peachy chicken salad among the four plates. 7. Garnish with goat cheese and toasted walnuts. Serve immediately.

Dr Mark Osmond

so the patient should feel no pain. The patient then returns for a second appointment, generally about 1-2 weeks after, during which the tooth is inspected and if all is well a permanent filling is placed. This involves cleaning and measuring the root canal and the filling material is placed to seal the apex of the root and fill and entire root canal. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected, swollen and painful and an abscess may form. This in turn can destroy bone and ultimately the tooth will be lost. After a successful root canal treatment a tooth is no longer vital (alive) which means its sensory function- ability to react to hot or cold- is lost (although there are still nerves in the periodontal ligament

supporting the tooth.) However the presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day

functioning of the tooth and you should continue to clean and floss the tooth as normal.

The Weekly News apologises for the error made with this column in our last edition, which was inadvertently headlined 'Fitness Tip by Joe LeMoine'.

health Tip 

Peaches Delicious and widely popular peaches can improve your diet. Obesity increases your risk for chronic diseases, such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, and peaches can help you achieve or maintain a healthy weight. A large peach has only 68 calories. Peaches are 89 percent water, which suppresses your hunger without providing calories, so eat them as a convenient snack instead of highercalorie options. Peaches can also help you lower your total calories if you eat them as substitute for highcalorie desserts, such as cake or pie. Peaches provide 2.6 g dietary fiber, or more than 10 percent of the daily value for fiber, and 18 mg phytosterols, or a comparable amount to olive oil or vegetables. Fiber and phytosterols are plantbased nutrients, and they lower

your cholesterol levels. Other good sources of fiber include other fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and whole grains, and phytosterols are also in nuts, plant oils and seeds, according to the Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center. Peaches are cholesterol-free, and have almost no cholesterol-raising saturated fat. A large peach has 1.4 mg niacin, or 14 percent of the daily value for niacin, or vitamin B-3. Niacin plays a role in energy metabolism in your body. Peaches are high in vitamin C, with 11.6 mg, or 19 percent of the daily value. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system and strong joints. Peaches have 570 IU of vitamin A, an essential nutrient for healthy vision. Peaches can help you regulate

your blood pressure because they provide 332 mg potassium each, and they are sodium-free. A high-sodium, low-potassium diet may cause high blood pressure and an increased risk for stroke and kidney disease, and most Americans need to increase potassium and decrease sodium, according to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Most kinds of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans are high-potassium, low-sodium foods. Sweet, juicy, and good for you, this classic summer fruit is also surprisingly versatile.

July 6 - 12, 2013

Lifestyle... GARDENING 

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.

The Heat is on

Fertilizer FERTILIZER is any organic or inorganic material of natural or synthetic origin that is added to the soil to supply elements necessary for the growth of plants. Organic means something that is or was alive. Animal manures were once living plants, bone meal is composed of ground up bones of animals. Inorganic means from non-living sources, rock phosphate, a common source of phosphorus, comes from rocks, a non-living material. The term natural describes the manure, bonemeal and rock phosphate as all are naturally occurring. The term synthetic describes such products as nitrogen fertilizer which is manufactured. Inorganic fertilizer is immediately available to plants, where as organic fertilizer must be converted by micro-organisms in the soil to an inorganic form before it can be used. What The Numbers Mean: On a package of fertilizer you will find three or four numbers separated by hyphens. The numbers indicate the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur(S). A "complete" fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In addition to these major nutrients there are also trace elements such as iron, zinc, copper, calcium, manganese and magnesium which are necessary for plants to complete their life cycle. Nitrogen Nitrogen is required for the green, leafy vegetative growth of plants.

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

Deficiency symptoms of nitrogen are an overall pale yellow color of leaves and dwarfed or stunted plants. Nitrogen is easily leached down through the soil below the roots and is not available to the plant so is the element most often lacking and needing replacement. Too much nitrogen can delay flowering, fruiting and seed set. Phosphorus Phosphorus promotes root growth, root branching, stem growth, flowering, fruiting, seed formation and maturation. Deficiency symptoms are indicated by a red or purplish tinge to stems and foliage. It is stable and non-mobile in the soil so leaching is not a problem. Potassium

Potassium enables the plant to withstand stress such as drought, cold, heat, and disease. It also stimulates flower color and promotes tuber formation and a strong root system. Deficiency symptoms are indicated when the leaves appear dry and scorched on the edges and have irregular yellowing. Both chemical and organic fertilizers are available in dry and liquid forms. Once a decision is made concerning which type to use, the information in this article can be applied to compare and select the most economical brands. Regardless of which brand is selected it is a good idea to have a few favorites and switch fertilizers every few months.

No, I am not talking about the Miami Heats, but the temperature that has been climbing since mid-April. It is evident that we are in for one extremely hot summer. Every year we make certain preparations for summer: stock up on bug repellant, prepare to pay higher than usual water and power bills, get ready for hurricane season and the list goes on. However, there is one very important everyday task that is extremely important during the summer—staying properly hydrated. Drinking enough water and other fluids should always be a priority but especially so during the hotter months of the year because we can become dehydrated so much faster. Water is an essential nutrient—yes, it is a nutrient. Water is a nutrient that the body needs more than any other nutrient. As a matter of fact we can survive for weeks, months or even years with a deficiency in other nutrients but can only go a few days if we don’t get enough water. Therefore, it is important that we focus on drinking water. A very common question is ‘how much water should I drink?’ Well, when it comes to your water requirement, there is not a “one size fits all” formula. The amount of water you need to function every day depends on your diet, activity level and pattern, gender, environmental temperature and humidity. However, the common recommendation of 8 cups of water per day does not hurt. Even though I have been focusing on water alone, it is possible to stay hydrated by drinking other liquids such as milk, 100 per cent juices and teas. Let me be quick to add though, these other liquids do not take the place of water and cannot fulfill the many roles water play in the body. For example, water: Helps keep your muscles and skin toned Assists in weight loss Transports oxygen and nutrients to cells Eliminates toxins and wastes from the body Regulates body temperature Maintains blood volume which influences blood pressure Additionally, while other beverages, such as milk, may be a healthy choice, they all add extra calories to our day—calories that many of us just can’t afford. During the summer months, many persons’ beverages of choice are lemonade, iced tea and let’s not forget the beloved soda. Maybe indulging in one of these drinks won’t be so bad but because it is so hot here, we need to constantly reach for a drink to cool off. Here is the problem. A can of soda has anywhere from 140-220 calories and around 35 grams of sugar. If you drink just 3 sodas during the day that can easily add up to 500+ calories and over 100 grams of sugar!! Remember, we haven’t factored in the other drinks—this is just the sodas. Water on the other hand, is calorie free with no other additives. Am I saying you are to never have another soft drink? Of course not! However, you should choose your drinks wisely. Always drink for your health today; you can drink for pleasure another day. 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

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Female CHHS students during a musical rendition at Sunday’s valedictory service

Male students of the CHHS stand in acknowledgement of their successful completion of high school

CHHS graduates urged to be diligent “IF YOU are going to empower your minds for success, there must be prudent imagination by thinking positive thoughts and by thinking possible things. "Number two - there must be personal inquiry, look for sincere advocates and listen to sincere advice; and number three there must be positive investment, be diligent and be deliberate.” This was the exhortation given to the 157 students of the 2013 graduating class of the Clement Howell High School (all of whom were not in attendance) by Reverend Samuel Goldstone Williams on Sunday (June 30). The valedictory service which was celebrated at the Paradise Baptist Church in Five Cays, Providenciales, was an inspiring and happy send off for the students. Scores of parents, relatives, well wishers, the Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing and other Government and Opposition officials came out to wish the students well as they embarked on their first momentous

step towards adulthood and what was described by many during the service as the beginning of the rest of their lives. The young ladies - all adorned in beautiful blue gowns - and the young men - in their dazzling and dapper white three and four piece suits and blue ties - graced the stage of the church. A huge crowd occupied the pews, the gallery and all available spaces along the sides of the church’s interior, while yet more well wishers thronged the foyer and the churchyard. Reverend Williams encouraged the young people to make the necessary preparations to get to the destination that they desire, urging them that the way forward is set out with great untold possibilities and that it is theirs for the taking. He said: “Students, you have come too far to turn back, your parents have invested in you, consider the textbooks, the uniform, the lunch money, to name a few; your parents toiled hard, consider the laborious hours in the classroom and the many

teachers who helped equip you for life’s journey, it wasn’t easy but it was worth it. “So when you are tempted to drop the ball and give up, I want you to just keep telling yourself ‘the almighty God has brought you too far to leave you’. "The ball is in your court, make every effort to do the best thing with it, make the Turks and Caicos Islands proud of you.” The Reverend told the students not to rely on persons who have not done anything for themselves. "They cannot help you, and most of the time a feeling of jealousy might come into the equation when they see your potential…everybody who comes and kisses you on the cheek doesn’t mean that, sometimes while they are kissing you on the cheek, they have a dagger in your back.” CHHS principal, Gerald Persaud, in his words of encouragement to his students assured them that their uniqueness is special and should never be underestimated or scorned.

Manufacturing policy introduction dependent on Budget approval DIVERSIFICATION of the local economy is one of the main areas the current administration campaigned on going into office. At Cabinet on May 29, Minister of Finance, Trade and Investment, Washington Misick, tabled two proposals from businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands wishing to establish manufacturing facilities. It was agreed that a manufacturing policy should be developed in order to take forward these and other manufacturing proposals. However, in Parliament on Monday (July 1), the Minister noted that the timing of the introduction of the manufacturing policy is dependent on the passage of the 2013-2014 Budget.

Elected Member for Five Cays, Sean Astwood, asked Misick when the Government will complete its policy on manufacturing and whether or not there has been any consultation with the private sector, especially those persons already engaged in manufacturing locally. Misick said: “It is an ongoing process and I do not want to commit to a time…until the new Budget is in place, timing would be difficult.” The Minister explained that the Government is looking keenly at the policy’s introduction, which includes possible concessions to manufacturers, categories of manufacturing and standards for manufacturing.

As it relates to the latter, Misick said the wholesale adoption of the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) standards will ensure that products and services are safe, reliable and of good quality. For businesses, they are strategic tools that reduce costs by minimising waste and errors, and increasing productivity. They help companies to access new markets, level the playing field for developing countries and facilitate free and fair global trade. On the question of consultation, the Minister noted that this has not been done yet. Misick was optimistic about moving forward in the manufacturing sector. (VANESSA NARINE)

He said: “You are leaving behind a variety of memories, impressions and contributions, which, I am sure, have become part of the history of the school. "Years from now these ‘school days’ memories will also be lingering very fondly in your minds. “There are many of us who have been involved with you directly and indirectly over the years and we are all proud to see you graduate. "We all join together in congratulating you on achieving this life long dream.” Elected Member for Blue Hills, Goldray Ewing, added his voice to the litany of good wishes and encouragement for the graduates. “I thought a lot of negative things about Clement Howell High School, but this school continues to have positive results and achievements,” Ewing said. He listed several academic and athletic achievements of the school over the years and encouraged the

community not to give up on the CHHS, which has been bedevilled by a number of violent incidents in recent months. Ewing urged community leaders to get involved and do something to help the school; he also called on everyone to support the institution and the efforts of the children who attend. The Blue Hills representative charged the students to do their best in everything they do. “If you go abroad to further your education, once you are finish, please, please come back home, we need you, this country needs you.” He, along with Education Officer, Louise Garland-Thomas exhorted the graduates to continue the hard work and not give up on themselves and their future. Deliveries were also made by head boy and girl - Devon Palmer and Clevesha Outten – form teachers and the president of the CHHS Parent Teacher Association (PTA), June Harry. (DI)

Minister encourages public support of cleanup efforts OVER the last months there have been several public-spirited efforts to clean up the Turks and Caicos Islands. And it is an effort that is being encouraged by the Minister of Health and Human Services, Porsha Stubbs-Smith. Member for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay, Edwin Astwood, asked the Minister if her Ministry would be assisting these efforts in Parliament on Tuesday (July 2). She explained that the Department of Environmental Health is charged with the cleanup efforts and, working with the Department of Coastal Resources, has been engaging members of the public that have taken on cleanup campaigns.

The Minister said such individuals and groups are supported with materials when they mount their campaigns. Stubbs-Smith added that her Ministry also works with the Public Works Department and the Ministry of Government Support Services. Astwood questioned if these efforts were sufficient and whether or not they will be stepped up. The Minister acknowledged the need and pointed to the lack of resources to advance efforts aimed at the beautification of the Islands. According to her, once the 2013-2014 Budget is passed, financing for additional work will be available.

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Disaster management head on official visit to TCI EXECUTIVE Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Ronald Jackson, is in the Turks and Caicos Islands this week (July 2 to 4), to meet with senior Government officials on the implementation of Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) in the TCI’s approach to managing disasters and emergencies. CDM is the strategy which addresses all hazards through all phases of the disaster risk management cycle. This includes prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery, by the public and private sectors, of civil society and

the general population in hazard prone areas. It also involves risk reduction and management assessment and the integration of vulnerability assessment into the development approval planning process, with the emphasis on reducing risk. The objective of the meeting is to raise the level of consciousness of the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands on the importance of investing in disaster risk reduction. It will seek to update the Government on their return on investment in CDEMA, that is, what CDEMA has been able to do over the period in relation to supporting the Turks and Caicos CDM

Programming and to share the new CDM Strategy for the period 20132023. Jackson met with Ministers of Government, the Permanent Secretaries and the Director of Disaster Management and Emergencies as well as members of the National Disaster Executive. It is expected that the mission will seek to foster a greater spirit of collaboration and cooperation with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government while broadening partnerships in areas of mutual interest as part of the Disaster Risk Reduction agenda. The CDEMA head left the TCI on Thursday (July 4).

The Body Show contestants make a striking first appearance

Body Show contestants revealed CONTESTANTS vying for The Body Show were revealed in remarkable flair last Thursday (June 27) in front of a large crowd at the Island Fish Fry held at the Bight Children’s Park. Ten contenders, five women and five men, who will compete in this summer’s greatly anticipated competitions - Miss Body Beautiful and Mr Best Body - gave attendees much more than they expected. The contestants took to the stage with their amazing physiques, fabulous personalities and showmanship, wowing the crowd and leaving them wanting more. Director Courtney Robinson said: “The roars of applause, the screams of adulation, the cheering and chanting – people honestly couldn’t contain themselves. "If this is an indication of what is to come, and most anticipate that it will be – then The Body Show will indeed be TCI’s biggest summer sensation!” Contestants revealed were Nicola Jentgen, Alyx Williams, Carla Vianca Manaloto, Tory Deal, Nathanaelle Louis, Jeritt Williams, Farah George, Reonardo Harvey, Mauquieta Carter and Clay Seymour. Other contenders include Anya

Pratt, Keturah Miller, Donhue Bassett and Tikiera Seymour. The Body Show competition will take place on Saturday, July 27, at Brayton Hall, where the top two contenders of the Miss Body Beautiful and Mr Best Body Contest will receive LIME advertisement campaigns, cellular phones with plans and consolation prizes. The winners will each receive $1,000 in cash. Latoya Pinder, Miss Body Beautiful TCI 2012 and Washanda Registre TCI Top Model 2012 will crown and sash Miss Body Beautiful 2013, while Samentha Etienne, TCI Top Model 2013 will sash Mr Best Body. The event promises performances by leading singers, musicians, fashion models, dancers and other headliners. Advanced purchase of tickets costs $150 - Sky Box (includes complementary beverages), $75 -VIP and General Admission - $50. An additional $10 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.

A section of the graduating class of HJ Robinson High School

HJ Robinson class of 2013 commended by Acting Governor ACTING Governor, Anya Williams has commended the young men and women of the graduating class of the HJ Robinson High School on Grand Turk on reaching the milestone. Williams was speaking at the school’s graduation ceremony on Monday (July 1). She told the students that the ceremony marks a major accomplishment in their lives, but that it is only the beginning on their road to success. The Acting Governor said: “Your time in high school could be considered as a tumultuous one. "You see I can vividly remember that five years ago, your first school term was significantly delayed by the visits of Hanna and Ike, which not only took with them many of

your homes and prized possessions, but also devastated your school and reshaped your expectations of what your high school experience would be like.” Williams recalled that it took the school many years to recover with much more work still to be done. She noted that despite the lack of infrastructure and other key resources, both students and teachers still persevered. She further cautioned them that the step they are about to take comes with great responsibilities. “Decision making in most instances will now be left to you; as your parents over the years would have helped you to groom you into the mature young men and women I see before me today, but you must never forget the principles that your

parents, teachers, preachers, relatives or even in some cases friends would have taught you. "These principles will help to guide you throughout life and will ensure that you do what you ought to do,” Williams said. The Acting Governor urged the students to take the same perseverance which saw them through high school and apply it to the remainder of their lives. She said: “And know that no matter how your circumstances may change or whatever obstacles may come your way, you must always remain resolute and determined to accomplish your goals.” The students were advised to make a positive mark in society and the Turks and Caicos Islands in whatever they do.

22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

Students graduate from Provo Community College THIRTY-ONE graduating students of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) Provo campus were joined by officials, family members and well-wishers as they celebrated one of the most significant moments of their lives. The graduation ceremony for the students completing the Associate Degree in various areas of studies took place at Brayton Hall on Thursday (June 27). President of the college Lee Ingham, congratulated the students on their academic success and reminded the public that the local institution is where they should come to pursue their educational goals. He said: “This institution, the Turks and Caicos Community College, since its inception in 1994 has played a very important role in helping the people of this country to achieve and realise their academic dream…” Ingham also reminded the students that this is not the end and encouraged them to pursue higher studies and take up positions of power and leadership in the country; not only for themselves but for the country. Some of the Associate Degrees received by the students were in areas of Business, Hospitality, Primary Care Education, Human

Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture Akierra Missick shares words of encouragement and advice

Resource Management and Building Design Technology. Chairman of the Board of Governors, Claudette Clare said: “The board is mindful of the changing needs of industry and the public sector as our community continues to grow and therefore continue to see ways to propel students to become more competitive in the current and future economy.” Minister of Education, Youth,

TCICC Provo Campus graduating class of 2013

Sports and Culture Akierra Missick also congratulated the students and shared encouraging words and advice with them. The keynote speaker Krystal Malcolm, a past graduate of the college, shared experiences and encouragement for students to further their studies and to set achievable goals and pursue them.

She pointed out the importance of education; to build a successful career and life; and for personal development and satisfaction. Vice president of the TCICC Samuel Forbes, who acted as master of ceremonies, also advised the graduates to push for the best, reminding them of the school’s motto, 'Daring to Aspire, Determined

to Succeed.' Other significant people who proudly attended the graduation ceremony included members of the TCICC faculty, Josephine Connolly, Edgar Howell, Arthur Forbes and Barbara Weinstein. The Grand Turk campus held their graduation ceremony a few days prior. (KH)

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Spotlight on Salt Cay

Conching in the Caicos By Candy Herwin WHICHEVER way you look at the history of the Turks and Caicos, there is a strong connection between the entire islands bound by centuries of struggle, trading and interisland marriage. One common factor was the harvesting of the sea for fish, turtles, sponge and the resplendent queen conch, which has provided a staple diet since the days of the Lucayan Indians who lived quietly on settlements sprinkled throughout the islands. Today fishermen still gather conch and sell it on the dockside to families and restaurant owners who prepare delicious and nutritious platters of chowder, ‘cracked’

and ‘steamed ‘ conch; distinct flavour’s of age old recipes, passed down from grandmother to daughter. However, there were several times during the history of the islands, when ‘conch harvesting’ was considered a necessary livelihood for fisherman that worked hard to put food on the table and the young boys spent many hours at sea with their fathers learning how to navigate the banks, hoist sails, drop anchor and read the ominous clouds, winds and tides. In fact one story comes to mind of veteran fisherman, old Thomas Parker, who lived in the late 1800s during the Edwardian era when there was a growing demand in Europe for the rare pink pearls and the novel, bright pink shells which

were crafted into ladies cameo brooches, fashionable boxes and other curios. Unconcerned about the markets in Europe, Thomas was busy spending many days at sea, sponging and diving for conch along the banks, sand flats and in turtle grass meadows on the outer reefs;

sometimes risking life and limb in rough seas and sudden gales that could arise with little warning. Old man Thomas trained his son Daniel Nathaniel Parker, later known as old “Danny,” in the method of boat building and harvesting conch from the sea. These sea snails provided a source of income and commodity trading with nearby Haiti where the local population consumed vast quantities of conch meat, which once dried and cured, remained edible for many months. Daniel in fact grew up during the post war depression when life on the islands was extremely hard which obliged Danny to enlist the help of his

son, Eric Wellington Parker from Blue Hills. “He took me out of third standard,” said Eric, “And put me to work on the boats for surviving. The times were rough because my father fell ill. We sailed to Haiti to sell conch and trade for corn and other goods. We spent days at sea to gather our cargo. Sometimes we went to West Caicos and sometimes we break the law and slide into Mayaguana where we fetched a full boat. We came back home, pick up our clothes and sail to South Caicos where we had to get the conch weighed off and get clearance to leave for Haiti where we would sell the conch. It was hard because you had to wait on the agents. It was their custom to make you wait and

if you had about 10,000 conchs you may end up selling only 9000. If you were lucky, the agents would let you go if they were expecting a lot of boats. “In Haiti you had to take what they give you, not what you want. You could buy corn, you could buy rice, you could buy Haitian grits, peas, potatoes, plantain, yam, cassava and whatever you want because the goods were cheap. Sometimes you could get a set of clothes made for a small rate and buy some cloth for the family. Then it was time for home with your memorandum. It wasn’t easy but better then cutting sisal or what we call ‘manilla.” Now that was what you call hard work!”

New public service performance management system in place A NEW performance appraisal system (PAS) was introduced to all 1,700 Turks and Caicos Islands civil servants on Monday (July 1). The PAS is a key element of an ongoing and longstanding programme of civil service reform designed to raise the standards of public service delivery in the TCI. It was designed to by a working group of personnel drawn from across the TCI Government ministries, and further develops the required levels of competence, the required professional and administrative skills required for a post, for civil servants at each grade. The PAS is designed to make an individual’s specific objectives and tasks much clearer throughout the appraisal reporting period of 12 months. The process allows an individual employee and their manager to focus on the work related tasks in hand by promoting and encouraging effective behaviours, whilst removing those that are nugatory or ineffective. It also makes clear the individual’s

learning needs which can be addressed through the correct training or mentoring, for example. Training on the new system has already begun for managers and supervisors. It will be rolled out to all employees throughout July. Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Anya Williams, said: “I am personally committed to providing the necessary training and support to make sure that the Turks and Caicos Islands get the public service that it deserves. “All managers and supervisors are now required to begin following this new performance appraisal process. "Completion of officers' performance appraisals is part of the manager's own performance objectives. “Under the new system, all officers will be able to rely upon a more consistent framework for communication of expectations and regular feedback on their performance, as well as clarification of career goals and training and development opportunities.”

July 6 - 12, 2013

NEWS 27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Nine-year-old Royanne Robinson crowned Little Miss Summa Jam 2013 (PHOTOS BY ANTHONY WILLIAMS)

Island Vibes’ leader, Anthony Lightbourne, accepts first place prize for topping the Capital’s Battle of the Bands

Musical creators honoured for their contribution to music in Grand Turk

Summa Jam 2013 fun filled

The soccer players in their new uniforms, which were donated by Beaches

Beaches sponsors national girls football team BEACHES Turks and Caicos resort villages and spa has signed on as corporate sponsor of the TCI Football Association National Girls Development team. Technical director coach Matthew Green expressed his appreciation for the sponsorship and the training uniforms the resort also purchased for the girls. “Many of our players lack support; be it financial or moral, so we are pleased that Beaches has shown that they care about our players and the team as they prepare to face two of the top teams in the USA,” Green said. The team is currently in the process of training for a game in July where they will be competing against two visiting teams from the USA. “These uniforms are a clear boost to the players as they will look and feel like professional players,” the coach added. The sports programme was initiated to offer several gifted and committed local players the opportunity to develop their skills.

The football squad, which consists mainly of female players between the ages of 12 and 20, is the brainchild of Green and the TCIFA and is designed to help the young local players develop socially as well as academically. Beaches Resort, a longtime supporter of community, education and sports initiative in the TCI, in a statement said that it recognises that the association is expanding and is always in need of sponsors to assist with their development programmes and that is why the sponsorship was developed. “We understand the continuous progress of the association and the growth of the sport in the islands and have decided to take the initiative in supporting the wonderful programme,” general manager, Donald Dagenais said. He added: “We hope to maintain this as a continuous sponsorship between Beaches and Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association’s National Girls Development team.”

THE THREE-day (June 27 to 29) festivities that were Summa Jam were much anticipated. A large section of the hundreds that turned out in support were youths, who had two reasons to celebrate, the official start of summer and graduation. Several top Government officials, including the Acting Governor, Anya Williams, and Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, were in attendance. The activities were hosted at the Victoria Public Library Courtyard, stimulating the local economy and providing entertainment for all ages with a dazzling dynamic display of culture, music, talent, entertainment and sports. This year’s events included the Little Miss Summa Jam 2013, held last Thursday (June 27); the Miss Grand Turk Summa Jam 2013, held last Friday (June 28); and Battle of the Bands held last Saturday (June 29). Two bands vied for the top spot in the Battle of the Bands competition, Outkast and Island Vibes, the latter

coming out on top. Turks and Caicos Island Community College student, Shanice Williams, 20, was crowned Miss Grand Turk Summa Jam 2013 and nine-year-old Royanne Robinson took home the Little Miss Summa Jam 2013 crown. Unfortunately the softball competition and the ‘Early morning jump up (junkanoo)’ were cancelled owing to circumstances beyond the control of the organising committee. Following a six year absence from the Grand Turk entertainment calendar, the Grand Turk Summa Jam Committee announced the return of Summa Jam in April and organisers are optimistic that the event will be on the cards next year. Sponsors of the event included Fortis TCI, Olympic Construction, Digicel, the Grand Turk Cruise Centre, Wally’s Restaurant, TCI Lotto, Grand Turk Liquors, Durham’s Party Center, GQ Car Rental and Sales, Caicos Express, Islandcom, Royal Jewels, among many others.

Regional News

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cayman’s borrowing limits: Britain won’t budge ANY lingering hopes the new Cayman Islands government had harboured that the UK would relax its stringent borrowing limits appear to have been snuffed out at the first meeting with officials in London. Mark Simmonds, the UK’s overseas territories minister, told the Caymanian Compass the borrowing limits “must be achieved” to ensure the territory’s finances were “credible and sustainable”. Mr. Simmonds said he had discussed public finances with Cayman Islands Premier Alden McLaughlin during a series of meetings in London last month. He insisted the two governments had already forged a good working relationship, but offered little hope of compromise over the UK’s tight controls of the public purse. Mr. McLaughlin spoke in the immediate aftermath of his victory in May of a desire to seek greater fiscal flexibility. But he accepted last week that this could not involve asking the British government to relent on its requirement that Cayman Islands not enact any long-term borrowing through 30 June, 2016. “We accept that any major works are going to be publicprivate partnerships,” he told

Mr. Simmonds and Mr. McLaughlin met last month in London during a gathering of overseas territories leaders and British government officials.

the Compass. In his first interview as premier on 23 May, Mr. McLaughlin warned “austerity has not worked”, referring to the cycle of recession that has blighted European countries in spite of severe government spending cuts. Mr. Simmonds indicated last week that there could be no leeway for Cayman’s leaders on finances – even to fund stimulus projects that could grow the economy. He said, “Prudent fiscal management and effective

fiscal planning is fundamental to economic success of all overseas territories. “The Cayman Islands Framework for Fiscal Responsibly sets borrowing limits that must be achieved to ensure that the Cayman Islands government public finances can be credible and sustainable over the medium term.” The UK has set targets for Cayman’s finances, which must be complied with by June 2016. ?This includes a demand to bring the territory’s

total debt down to below 80 per cent of annual government revenues. The Cayman Islands ?government must also maintain enough cash reserves to fund at least 90 days worth of executive expenditure at the end of each budget year. It is on those two points that Mr. McLaughlin is seeking some latitude. “That’s a major factor,” he said of the cash reserves, noting it would be difficult to meet the June 2016 deadline for compliance. Even without any substantial government outlay on capital projects, the premier is concerned that the three-year time frame may not be long enough to bring the government’s net debt ratio into line. Though he accepts the limits are not about to change, he spoke last week of his concern that, in such conditions, necessary, major public projects that could help provide jobs and boost the economy, would be difficult to get started. He is also worried about the territory’s reputation in the face of a growing climate of hostility toward offshore jurisdictions. “Constant talk about not being compliant is impacting us as a community,” he said.

The modern day traveller is looking for more than just sun and sand.

Travellers to Caribbean looking for more than beach tourism – Travel research firm finds out MORE and more, Caribbean travel stakeholders say they are mindful that travellers are looking for more than just “sun, sand and sea.” And it seems that’s borne out in the numbers, according to a study from travel research firm TCI Research. While the Caribbean brings in around 20 million international travelers every year, it faces everincreasing competition from a host of rivals, including the Mediterranean, Latin America and the Indian Ocean. Despite strengths like leisure, local food quality and the shopping experience, TCI said, the region has a number of areas in which it struggles to stay competitive. “The multifaceted Caribbean region is made of diverse destinations facing

different tourism challenges and it offers a competitive experience to its visitors on tangible elements (beaches, accommodation, food…),” said TCI Research CEO Olivier Henry-Biabaud. “However some of them significantly suffer from a lack of competitiveness in more intangible criteria (environment, feeling of security, people hospitality…) raising issues they should address if they wish to build a more competitive and sustainable tourism.” While the Caribbean shows high levels of satisfaction among travelers for its beaches, leisure activities, local food quality, shopping and local people, those categories show lower satisfaction levels than destinations like the Indian Ocean, Latin America and Asia.

Barbados opposition demands CLICO audit be made public MAKE the CLICO forensic audit public or face the wrath of the Opposition. That’s the gauntlet Opposition Leader Mia Mottley threw down to the Freundel Stuart administration on Monday as she reported that Government may soon be called on to guarantee a B$365 million bond issue to help resolve the CLICO problem. The court-ordered forensic audit into the assets and records of CLICO International Life (CIL) was filed by the judicial manager’s legal representative in the Supreme Court last Friday. Over the weekend the Barbados Investors & Policyholders Alliance (BIPA) said it was appalled that the court’s approval was being sought “to keep the

Mia Mottley

final forensic audit sealed from the public of Barbados, giving only as its reason that ‘the report contains sensitive information about the operations of the respondent (CLICO), its subsidiaries, CLICO Holdings (Barbados) Limited and the activities of officers and agents of these entities’ ”. (Barbados Nation)

July 6 - 12, 2013

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Bad news chasing good money away from the Caribbean SOME relationships just don’t last too long; some don’t even get started if the other is broke. This is exactly what happened some 10 weeks ago when investment suitors came rushing to the emerging markets with bags of money to mop up US$20 trillion of cheap government securities going below a one per cent return and now the tide of lenders is ebbing. Investors began pulling stakes with large scale selling of these assets amid fears that the US Federal Reserve may slash the monthly US$85 billion flow of easy money that kept short interest-rates here around zero per cent. The near zero rate has allowed the opulent investors to try their hand in the riskier emerging markets where a one-percent margin was better than nothing. At the end of April, the average yield to maturity

for Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Broad Market Sovereign Plus Index floated around 1.34 per cent. Then almost everyone was at the feeding trough. Analyst, Edward AlHussainy, an assistant VP at Moody’s, in a telephone interview from New York, noted that even the far flung Rwanda which had almost self-destroyed by civil war a few years back raised US$400 million in bonds while hot spots like South Africa, Columbia and Thailand creamed off their share of the financial largesse of low cost money. But not everyone had a seat at the table, Al-Hussainy, quipped: “The Dominican Republic was able to gain one billion in dollars bonds while most of the other Caribbean countries were unable to attract the attention of these investors”.

Earlier this year, Caribbean countries restructured three bonds totaling US$9.7 billion but analyst say in the absence of real economic growth, countries in this region may spin in more cycles of default. “Jamaica and Belize hogged the lion’s share of some US$9.5 billion in restructured debt since 2006 and Barbados is running low on planned reserves. And overall, the average debt for the Caribbean to income ratio is about 70 percent with Jamaica ahead at 140 per cent,” Al-Hussainy said. In March, the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines failed to auction EC $40 million (One EC dollar = US$0.37 cents) 10- year bonds in a period when carry trade investors were on the hunt to lend around the globe. At the close of the action only 11 bids valued at EC$ 25.9 million were tendered.

DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PUBLIC NOTICE DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys are pleased to announce the re-opening of our Leeward Highway Office for ongoing legal services to the public. We are located in our own building across the street from the Supreme Court complex, next door to the offices of TC Weekly News and between that and the St. Monica's Anglican Church. We specialize in: • Civil Litigation (Particular competencies: Judicial Review and other claims against TCI Government/Departments, Mareva and other Injunctions, Land, Trust & Bank disputes) • Property Matters, Planning Department & Development Issues • Business Law • Immigration 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

World News

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Bone marrow transplant ‘frees men of HIV drugs’ TWO patients have been taken off their HIV drugs after bone-marrow transplants seemed to clear the virus from their bodies, doctors report. One of the patients has spent nearly four months without taking medication with no sign of the virus returning. The team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in the US, caution that it is far too soon to talk about a cure as the virus could return at any point. The findings were presented at the International Aids Society Conference. It is difficult to get rid of an HIV infection because it hides inside human DNA, forming untouchable “reservoirs” in body. Anti-retroviral drugs keep the virus in check within the bloodstream - but when the drugs stop, the virus comes back. HIV GONE? The two men, who have not been identified, had lived with HIV for about 30 years. They both developed a cancer, lymphoma, which required a bonemarrow transplant. Bone marrow is where new blood cells are made and it is thought to be a major reservoir for HIV. After the transplant, there was no detectable HIV in the blood for two years in one patient and four in the other. The pair came off their antiretroviral drugs earlier this year. One has gone 15 weeks, and the other seven, since stopping

treatment, and no signs of the virus have been detected so far. Dr Timothy Henrich told the BBC the results were exciting. But he added: “We have not demonstrated cure, we’re going to need longer follow-up. “What we can say is if the virus does stay away for a year or even two years after we stopped the treatment, that the chances of the virus rebounding are going to be extremely low. “It’s much too early at this point to use the C-word [cure].” It is thought that the transplanted bone marrow was initially protected from infection by the course of antiretrovirals. Meanwhile the transplant also attacked the remaining bone marrow, which was harbouring the virus. However Dr Henrich cautioned that the virus could be still be hiding inside brain tissue or the gastrointestinal track. “If [the] virus does return, it would suggest that these other sites are an important reservoir of infectious virus and new approaches to measuring the reservoir at relevant sites will be needed to guide the development of HIV curative strategies,” he said. BERLIN PATIENT Timothy Brown, also known as the “Berlin patient” is thought to be the first person cured of Aids. He had a bone marrow transplant from a rare donor who was resistant to HIV. The two US cases both received bone marrow from normal donors.

There was also a report of an HIV cure in a baby born in Mississippi, US. She was treated with antiretroviral drugs at birth so it is thought the virus was cleared from the body before reservoirs were established. Dr Michael Brady, the medical director of the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “It is too early to know whether HIV has been eradicated from these men’s bodies or whether it might return. However, the case suggests that what happened to Timothy Brown, the Berlin Patient was perhaps not a one-off. “A bone marrow transplant is a complex and expensive procedure, which comes with significant risks. “For most people with HIV, it would be more dangerous to undergo a transplant than to continue managing the virus with daily medication. “So while this is by no means a workable cure, it does give researchers another signpost in the direction of one.” The head of the Foundation for AIDS Research, Kevin Frost, said: “These findings clearly provide important new information that might well alter the current thinking about HIV and gene therapy. “While stem-cell transplantation is not a viable option for people with HIV on a broad scale because of its costs and complexity, these new cases could lead us to new approaches to treating, and ultimately even eradicating, HIV.” (BBC)

Missouri man found guilty of sodomising girl kills self in court A MISSOURI man found guilty of sodomizing a 14-year-old girl horrifically killed himself in court by allegedly taking a cyanide pill only moments after the verdict was reached. Authorities say Steve Parsons, 48, collapsed and started convulsing on the floor before shocked friends, family and witnesses after allegedly swallowing the poison in a Maryville courtroom, Thursday. Parsons, found guilty of two felony counts, had been sentenced to a maximum of seven years behind bars after his brave young victim took the stand testifying against him in a bid to make matters right. “I can’t speculate on what he was going through but I am firmly convinced that his death was not a

Steve Parsons, 48, took a fatal cyanide pill just moments after he was sentenced to spend up to seven years in jail for having sex with a 14-year-old girl.

result of a wrongful verdict by the jury,” Gentry County Prosecutor Jerry Biggs told FOX4KC. Biggs expressed himself as “quite surprised and disappointed and unhappy and sorry. Sorry for the victim. Sorry for her family.” The station reports that Parsons, owner of Parson’s Tire and Service in St. Joseph was well known through both Maryville and nearby Stanberry. He was arrested in July, 201, in Gentry County but a change of venue moved his trial to Nodaway County. Immediately after his shocking death Nodaway County Sheriff Darren White discovered his overnighted purchase of 100 grams of cyanide from an online store last week. (NYdailynews)

King Albert succeeded his brother, King Baudouin, almost 20 years ago.

Belgium’s King Albert II ‘to abdicate’

THE King of the Belgians, Albert II, was expected to address the nation amid reports he is going to abdicate (relinquish his throne). Belgian state TV reported that the 79-year-old monarch made his announcement on Wednesday. His son, Crown Prince Philippe, 53, is next in line to the throne. During Belgium’s political deadlock in 2010-11, the king - who is due to mark 20 years on the throne next month - took on the role of mediator. Media reports say he will announce his abdication to take effect on Belgium’s national day on 21 July. King Albert, 79, met the Belgian government’s cabinet earlier on Wednesday to inform them of his decision, Belgian state TV reported. The palace said in a statement:

“The core council of ministers has convened in the presence of the king. The king will speak to the people at 1800 (1600 GMT) via a radio and television address.” Following the king’s announcement, Belgian Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo will address the nation. King Albert was sworn in as the sixth king of the Belgians on 9 August 1993, following the death of his brother, King Baudouin aged 62. Like other European monarchies, the Belgian monarch has no executive powers and plays a largely ceremonial role King Albert’s abdication would come only three months after Queen Beatrix of the neighbouring Netherlands vacated the Dutch throne in favour of her son WillemAlexander. (BBC)

Irish abortion law passes first vote POLITICIANS in the Republic of Ireland have overwhelmingly voted to introduce limited abortion. Tuesday’s vote is the first in a series of stages the proposed bill must pass. It will allow for a termination where three medics unanimously agree that a suicidal woman is at risk of taking her life because of her continuing pregnancy. If passed it will be the first legislation allowing limited abortion in Ireland. One hundred and thirty eight members of the Irish Parliament voted to give the controversial bill a second reading and move the legislation to the committee stage, while 24 voted against. Four members of Fine Gael, the main government party,

defied the party whip by voting against the bill. As a result, Billy Timmins, Peter Mathews, Brian Walsh and Terence Flanagan have been expelled from the parliamentary party. Sinn Féin TD Peadar Tóibín also voted against the government’s proposal, in defiance of his party. A Sinn Féin spokesman said his decision to do so was regarded as a serious breach of party rules and he would face disciplinary action, which has yet to be decided. In a statement, Mr Tóibín said: “It is with great sadness that I have had to separate from my party on this, but I cannot vote for a medical evidence free bill that will result in the death and disablement of children.

July 6 - 12, 2013

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Human head transplants close to becoming reality: Italian scientist

Portugal’s political crisis is contributing to new concern about Europe’s economic stability.

Portugal may reignite Europe crisis Political turmoil in Portugal is threatening to re-ignite Europe’s debt crisis after a year of relative calm. Having won praise for taking tough measures to restore the financial health of the eurozone state, Portugal’s government has been rocked this week by the resignation of two ministers who quit because of waning public support for its programme of austerity. Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho has refused to accept the resignation of his foreign minister, who heads a junior partner in the center-right coalition. But anxious investors sold stocks and bonds heavily Wednesday on fears that the government may collapse. Portuguese media said two other ministers could follow their party leader in tendering their resignation Wednesday. New elections could delay economic reforms and prolong Portugal’s dependence on bailout

funds. Yields on its 10-year government bonds surged above 7% for the first time this year and at one stage hit 8%. Shares on the country’s benchmark stock index fell by about 5.5%, with banks particularly hard hit. Major European stock markets and government bonds in other peripheral eurozone states also suffered losses. “We think the risk is that the combination of such higher yields and political uncertainty reduces the prospect of Portugal regaining full market access in the next year, and hence leads to expectations of a new ‘full’ [bailout] program being required,” noted Bank of America Merrill Lynch in a research report. Portugal signed up for a 78-billion euro bailout from the European Union and International Monetary Fund in 2011, and was hoping to exit the program in mid-2014.

Vulgar English word added to German dictionary Germany’s standard dictionary has included a vulgar English term, used by Chancellor Angela Merkel among others, as an acceptable German word. Duden, the equivalent of the Oxford English Dictionary in the UK, said it was reflecting the common use of the word “shitstorm” among Germans. The word, which is used in German to denote a public outcry, seems to have caught on during the eurozone crisis. German language experts voted it “Anglicism of the year” in 2012. One of them, Michael Mann, explained in a report by the Local newspaper, that the English word conveyed a

“new kind of protest... clearly different in kind and degree from what could be expected in the past in response to a statement or action”. In the past there have been controversies over German usage of words like “download”, “jobhopping” or “eye-catcher”, the BBC’s Steve Evans reports from Berlin. The new word has crept into the language, imported by people who heard its use primarily in American English, he says. It is used by the highest and lowest in the land and when Chancellor Merkel used it at a public meeting, nobody batted an eyelid, our correspondent adds. (BBC)

IN WHAT sounds like a sciencefiction novel come to life, one scientist says he is close to being able to affix one person’s head to another human body. Italian scientist Sergio Canavero believes he has come up with an outline to successfully complete the first human head transplant in history, which could lead to solutions for those suffering from muscular dystrophy or tetraplegics with widespread organ failure. Head transplants have been attempted since the 1950s, when Russian scientist Vladimir Demikhov experimented with dogs. Twenty years later, American neurosurgeon Robert White conducted a successful head transplant by moving the head of one monkey to the body of another. The monkey lived for several days, but because White could not connect the two spinal cords, the monkey eventually died. Canavero describes in a recent paper a step to connect donor and recipient spinal cords – the one component that was missing from previous procedures. But completing a head transplant is incredibly tedious, and the spinal cord fusion hasn’t been tested. Though the procedure’s name suggests otherwise, the recipient would be receiving a new body, not a new head. Both the body-recipient and the body-donor’s heads are severed before the recipient’s is attached to a new body. To be transplanted, the head would have to be cooled to between 55 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, the two heads must be cut at exactly the same time and in the same operating room. Surgeons then have one hour to connect the head to the donor body, which

Dr. Eduardo D. Rodriguez explains the most extensive full face transplant completed to date performed on Richard Lee Norris (l.). Full head transplants could soon be a possibility, according to Italian scientist Sergio Canavero.

is also cooled and placed under cardiac arrest. Canavero’s new development to connect the spinal cords is called the GEMINI procedure, during which surgeons cut the cooled spinal cords with extremely sharp blades. “It is this ‘clean cut’ the key to spinal cord fusion, in that it allows proximally severed axons to be ‘fused’ with their distal counterparts,” Canavero writes in his paper. Canavero says in his paper that some chemicals – such as polyethylene glycol, or PEG – can then be used to immediately fuse the spinal cords. “PEG is easy to administer and has a strong safety record in man,” Canavero writes. Once the spinal cords of the

recipient and donor are successfully connected, the body’s heart can be restarted, pumping blood into the brain, and “normal temperatures will be reached within minutes.” Canavero says that there is still much work to be done – the spinal cord fusion needs to be tested, and he says he has not addressed the ethical aspects of the procedure. But the surgery, he writes, could eventually provide a possible cure for those with conditions that leave the brain functioning while affecting the rest of the body, like progressive muscular dystrophies, or “several genetic and metabolic disorders of youth.” “These are a source of huge suffering, with no cure at hand,” Canavero writes. (NYdailynews)

Snowden rumours ground Bolivian plane BOLIVIAN President Evo Morales’s plane had to be diverted to Austria amid suspicion that US intelligence leaker Edward Snowden was on board, the Bolivian foreign minister has said. Officials in both Austria and Bolivia said Mr Snowden was not on the plane. France and Portugal reportedly refused to allow the Moscow-Bolivia flight to cross their airspace. Mr Snowden is reportedly seeking asylum in Bolivia and 20 other countries to avoid extradition to the US. Bolivian Foreign Minister David Choquehuanca told reporters on Tuesday that France and Portugal had closed their airspace over the

“huge lie” that Mr Snowden, 30, was on board. “We don’t know who invented this lie, but we want to denounce to the international community this injustice with the plane of President Evo Morales,” he said. ‘HOSTILE ACT’ Austrian foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Schallenberg said Mr Snowden was not on board the Bolivian leader’s aircraft. The Bolivian defence minister, also on the flight, pilloried the US after the unscheduled landing. “This is a hostile act by the United States state department which has used various European governments,” Ruben Saavedra said.

The Falcon aircraft was reportedly allowed to refuel in Spain before the jet went on to Vienna. President Morales was said to be at the airport in Vienna discussing his return route to Bolivia early on Wednesday. French officials said they could not confirm whether they had denied permission for President Morales’ plane to fly over their territory. Portuguese officials could not immediately be reached for comment. The Bolivian president had been on a visit to Moscow, where Mr Snowden, a former CIA contractor, has reportedly been holed up in an airport transit area since arriving from Hong Kong on 23 June. (BBC)

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

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

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

FOR SALE

July 6 - 12, 2013

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

ROYAL JEWELS

Is looking for a

Sales Person Salary $5.50 per hour

contact: 946-8800 8789

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

July 6 - 12, 2013

Mechanic – $6.50 per hour

Babysitter – $5.50 per hour Contact: 344-4540

KEVIN TAYLOR

Proprietors Strata Plan #41 Management Co. Ltd

Is looking for a

One (1) Labourer

Seeks to fill the following position

One (1) Gardner Interested person must be willing to work hard, must be responsible, reliable & trustworthy. Must be willing to work with little or no supervision. Schedule work hours are 7am to 5pm. Applicant must be willing to work on holidays and weekends. Salary US$400.00 per week

Farmer Salary $6.00 per hour.

Please contact Dan on:

331-2945

contact: 247-4068

8768

OFFICE MANAGER WANTED Requirements:

- High school diploma - Literate in computer programs & internet - 5 years exp. as office manager & customer service - Communicate clearly and effectively with customers & staff - Willing to work in a very loud environment

Job Responsibilities:

- Negotiate with int.suppliers & resolve complaints/confrontation - Complete all customs entries & follow up promptly to ensure down time is limited - Oversee work of office employees

- Track stocks, shipments, financial records, employee records & national insurance status - Handle various banking transactions - Answer phone, take messages & assist in radio communications - Retrieve jobs/car parts such as engine heads from back shop to pass to customers - Be available for spare driving - We are a small operation business and help is required in many areas on various situations - Represent company in court - Collect payments from customers - Establish/operate a monitored youth training program Wages start at $400/week

Belongers need only apply. Applicants should call 941-5802 for an application or email/fax resume to tibor@express.tc or 941-5803

8798

PRICE SLASHED FOR QUICK SALE

$180,000 CASH! House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

Proprietors Strata Plan #41 Management Co. Ltd. Seeks to fill the following position

Interested person must be willing to work hard, must be responsible, reliable & trustworthy. Must be willing to work with little or no supervision. Schedule work hours are 7am to 5pm Applicant must be willing to work on holidays and weekends. Salary US$400.00 per week

Please contact Dan on: 8774

Y.A.3.B. Acting on behalf of our clients Dean Bjorn and Triple S is looking to fill the following positions:

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

331-2945

8767

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

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LABOURER WANTED

Is looking for an

IMMEDIATE OPENING Fitness Instructor Requirements:

* Prior experience as a fitness trainer in a high end environment with experience in both personal training and teaching classes. * Certification(s) in fitness instruction, personal training, pilates etc. * High level of personal fitness with ability to demonstrate proper usage of equipment and proper exercise techniques. * Very energetic person with commitment to ensuring high levels of guest satisfaction.

Duties Include:

* Create and provide consistent professional fitness classes and personal training sessions in accordance with spa protocols and accepted certification practices. * Provide instruction on safe usage of fitness equipment. * Care for and maintain fitness equipment. * Actively promote the spa, treatments, services and retail as well as any promotions or discounts. * Assist in areas of the spa operation as requested by management. * Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting salary $6.00 per hour not including service charge

Landscaping Project Manager Requirements:

* Minimum of 5 years experience in managing the landscaping department of a 5 star Luxury Caribbean Resort. * Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience * Expert knowledge of Zone 9 Caribbean landscaping. * Vast knowledge in horticulture, native plant species and chemical usage towards the prevention of plant disease and insect control. * Must have extensive experience with Irrigation systems and landscape maintenance. * Must have strong supervisory skills and demonstrated experience managing a grounds department, landscaping, tool safety, chemical usage and operation of lawn equipment. * Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

Duties Include:

* Impeccable maintenance of grounds and landscaping. * Ability to identify areas for improvement and keeps abreast of latest trends in regards to plants, irrigation, landscape maintenance and chemical applications. * Ensuring proper utilization and maintenance of equipment. * Managing overall cleanliness of work, storage and space areas. Starting salary $35,000 per annum, not including service charge

Waste Water Plant Requirements:

* Minimum 2 years prior experience in the Waste Water plant of a luxury hotel property. * Knowledge of water testing and reading sample results. * Proficiency with hospitality operating systems. * Strong organizational and time management discipline with ability to multi-task. * Solid judgment and ability to resolve conflicts effectively. * Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts

Duties Include:

* Take water samples and provide testing for sediment amount, chlorine and ph. * Ability to make adjustments to the plant equipment pending outcome of testing results. * Washing down of all floats, sidewalks, equipment and railings on a daily basis. * The technician will also be required to fill the chlorine feeder with the proper amount of tablets as needed. * Responsible to do all checks and repairs on plant equipment to include air compressors, pumps and filter equipment. * Ensure that proper backwashing is done on a regular basis or as needed. * Required to legibly record all discrepancies and testing information on a daily record log. Starting salary $7.50 per hour not including service charge

EXPERIENCED SCUBA INSTRUCTOR

Salary: $20,000-$24,000 Contact: ALAN JARDINE

946-5029

5568

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

AT BLOCK 60601, PARCEL 73, Providenciales The Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990 Regulations 7, Schedule 2 Applications. An application registered PR: 11644, for construction of a Cell Site has been submitted to the department of Planning for consideration of Detail development permission by ISLANDCOM TELECOMMUNICATIONS LTD. The location is PARCEL 60601/73, which is in the Airport Area of Providenciales. Anyone wishing to make any representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Providenciales, within 28 days of the publication of this notice.

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

NEEDED FOR DIVE OPERATION

Requirements:

Duties Include:

* Supervising and overseeing the pool and beach staff and providing training * Ensuring that the umbrellas, chairs etc. are properly set up at the correct time each morning and properly stowed away each evening * Ensuring pool and beach areas are clean and well maintained at all times with sufficient clean towels available

Interested applicants should apply to Regent Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to marjorie.dorsett@regenthotels.com no later than Friday, July 12, 2013.

Contact 232-7827

NOTICE

Pool & Beach Supervisor * Must be an excellent swimmer with rescue capability and first aid training * Must be able to operate and teach others to operate catamarans, kayaks other watercrafts * Must be able to be on your feet for long periods of time and able to lift at least 50 lbs * Must be calm under pressure and possess the ability to instill in all pool and beach staff that they are there to serve the guest quickly and courteously

Diamond Development Ltd is looking for a Labourer for yard maintenance. 3 and half hours per day Monday to Friday. Salary: $6.00 per hour.

8812

DIVE PROVO

Experienced PADI Dive Instructor

BABYSITTER

To work Monday – Friday salary $5.00 per hour contact: 232-5222 Note: this advertisement is for a new work permit June 24th, 2013 8774

• Must have valid insurance & certification • Must have a good personality to work around people • Must have retail sales & maintenance experience • Flexible hours a must- Holidays & Sundays Required • Salary starts at $350.00 per week

Please contact Donna at Caicos Adventures: 941-3346 for interview

All applications must be submitted by July 15th, 2013

8780

34 CLASSIFIEDS

July 6 - 12, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Position Available

DENISE WESTCARR

HEAD PRESSER

AGNES SWANN Is looking for a

– $6.00

Domestic Worker

Labourer To work 5 days

– $5.00 per hour

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 246-4769

contact: 246-4769

8816

– $5.00 per hour

Kitchen Helper

per week salary $10.00 per hour.

– $5.00 per hour

Contact: 347-1567

MAMET PHILIPPE

TOKORA’S PRINT STUDIO

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

contact: 231-2995

contact: 342-2444 Is seeking to fill the following positions:

Labourer

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

contact: Debra Garland

649-243-6748

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 72

NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE TITLE NUMBER SECTION 10301/67 CENTRAL

Contact: 243-5561

carpenter To work 6 days

Waitress

Is looking for a

8802

8803

Labourer

Attendant

EL RANCHO RESTAURANT

8820

GLOVER LEAF AGENCY

Room

Must be willing to work weekends, nights and holidays salary $5.00 per hour.

8818

Contact: 241-1885

– $6.00 per hour

ISLAND GRAND TURK

Whereas, ALBERT HEADLEY HARVEY as personal representative of ALBERT NATHANIEL HARVEY of Breezy Brae, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, Has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) Registered in his/her/their name was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found. Take notice that I, Paul Madgwick Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new land certificate For the said title within six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette. Dated this 23 day of April 2013 Signed……………………........................................................………. Registrar of Land Witnessed…….......................................................…………………… 8815

8819

to work 6 days per week must be willing to work weekends and public holidays salary $5.50 per hour.

8791

per week salary $7.00 per hour. contact: 231-3987

Is looking for a

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

8821

Worker

Is looking for the following persons:

Stylist To work 6 days

Carpenter

8813

Domestic

8808

Hairdresser/

STEEL UNLIMITED COMPANY

JOSE OVANDO CONSTRUCTION

Green Keeper

Email resume pioneercleanersaccnt@gmail.com Please fax copy to TCI Labour Office: 649-946-4164

is looking for a

Is looking for a

– $8.00 per hour

• Minimum of 10 years experience in dry cleaning • business with emphasis on pressing specialty items. • Excellent finishing quality and efficiency is required. • Must be able to stand for long hours and manage hot • working conditions. • Must be fluent in English and be a team worker. • Please provide proof of experience.

IMPRESSION BEAUTY SALON

ISLAND GETAWAY

is looking for a

36 CLASSIFIEDS

C & J EMPLOYMENT

CASABLANCA CASINO • Manage and direct the surveillance department • Ensuring that requirements of TCI Gaming Authority Laws are enforce • Compiling audit 7 analysis reports on all departments • Maintaining and up keeping of the Digital CCTV System by regularly updating new software/hardware on relevant servers • Knowledge of all games • 5-7 years experience as a Surveillance Operation Manager • Salary $18.75 per hour

casablancadaily@hotmail.com or Maryann Ingraham 244-4665 9am-4pm

MCDONALD WILLIAMS Is looking for a

Labourer contact: 244-9241

8792

Salary $5.00 per hour

Labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. Contact: 241-7557

8787

Domestic Worker

8805

3 Masons 3 Tile Layers 2 Laborers 1 Carpenter Salary starting at $5.50 based on experience. Send 3 references and resume to tcivisionconstruction@ gmail.com. Belongers only need apply

TCI Middle School PO Box 1139, 48 Richmond Hill Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Tel 649 231 1519 Email: principal@tcimiddleschool.com

Science Teacher For this newly developed school

CERTIFIED IKO/ PASA Kiteboard Instructor

Contact: 244-3173

call 242-2927

Clean, cook, wash, iron etc. $5.00 per hour Experience required.

Contact: 347-2093

T & C VISION CONSTRUCTION

TCI Middle School requires for September 2013 a

Domestic Labourer To work salary

worker

Is looking to fill the following persons:

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Is looking for a

8791

• Excellent people and leadership skills • In-dept knowledge of slot machine operations, repair and maintenance • Optimizing of floor layout and slot systems • 5-7 years experience in Casino Management • Management of maintenance schedules and routine repairs • Analyzing statistic slot performance & maximize profitability

SURVEILLANCE OPERATIONS MANAGER

$5.50 per hour only Turks and Caicos Islands need to apply. 8775

Minimum 2 years teaching experience.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

We are seeking a skilled Sous Chef who can provide excellent International culinary skills, strong management and training skills and effective communication skills. The position involves working in the resort’s two restaurants, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The successful candidate will be a Sous chef who can bring variety, style and a high level of professionalism in order to achieve the highest possible culinary standards- an allaround of many cuisines with a background in International boutique properties. In addition to formal professional qualifications, the successful candidate will have at least three years experience in luxury resorts or award winning restaurants. Experience in matching food and wine would be great asset. Annual salary range: $20K to $27k (plus service charge) commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Dishwasher

This unexpected vacancy provides the opportunity for the suitable candidate to be instrumental in the strategic management of the school.

Dishwashers required for our food and beverage operations. Weekend, holiday and shift work. Must be able to work late hours. Wages range $5.00 to $5.50 per hour, plus service charge and tips

Full time teacher –.Form Tutor for Yr. 7 or 8, with responsibility for teaching specialist subjects to Yr. 7,- Yr 11 At least one Science subject is preferable along with one other. An exciting opportunity to be part of developing a new school on the island, leading it towards International Baccalaureate status in the future.

Pastry Chef

Applicants will need to ;; be dynamic, enthusiastic and creative teachers. ;; have an excellent working knowledge of the National Curriculum for England and Wales Guidelines ;; Have UK Qualified Teacher Status with at least 2 years teaching experience in the UK. ;; Be flexible and adaptable in their approach to learning ;; have expertise in one or more of the subject areas. We can offer ;; a small team atmosphere working together to further develop a new school ;; the opportunity to extend your experience in a very different learning environment ;; a maximum class size of 12 students ;; benefits including sun, sea and sand, and the opportunity to work in an idyllic setting. The initial teaching contract will be for a period of two years. Salary will be negotiable according to experience. Closing date – 2nd July 2013

Please Email CV or letter of application with a recent photograph and contact phone number together with the names and phone numbers of referees to: Mark Dunbavand at the above address.

8781

Sous Chef

8788

SLOT TECHNICIAN MANAGER

QUINTIN SELVER

Gereby acting on behalf of our client: C & J Variety Store

Seeks the following positions:

YVON PETIT & JEFFREY HALL

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Point Grace is currently seeking a Pastry Chef for our food and beverage operations (breakfast, lunch, and fine dining restaurant). We are looking for a driven and passionate Pastry Chef to join our high level team. The successful candidate will come from a good working background, and be a real team player, with at least three years in a similar position. Ability to work well under pressure and good communication skills are essential; must be able to adhere to Government Health, Safety and Hygiene standards. Salary range $1,500 to $1,700 plus service charge and tips

Housekeeper

Point Grace is currently seeking Housekeeping staff. We are looking for a trained and enthusiastic housekeeper to join our team. The successful candidate will have several years experience in this position in a luxury hotel. Ability to work well under pressure and good communication skills, including excellent English, are essential; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. In addition to regular housekeeping duties, the jobs include, turndown service, shifts in laundry, and common areas. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays. Wages range: $5.00 to $6.00 per hour plus service charge

Belongers only need apply Closing date: 30th July 2012

Please apply in writing to: Point Grace, PO Box 700, Grace Bay, Providenciales. Email: humanresources@pointgrace.com or Fax: 946-5097

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FLOWER GIRL Is looking for a Part-time

delivery driver With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

NATIONAL GAS Kew Town Providenciales Telephone: 341-6885

POSITION

Vehicle Propane System Inspector

Contact: 231-3788

Salary starts at $1800 per month. Belongers with experience will be given first preference.

The Ashcroft School seeks to appoint for September 2013:

Principal Candidates for application to this post must be able to demonstrate the following:

;;Successful management of schools within the UK education system; ;;Experience of managing a school that operates though a UK Charitable Trust and fully reporting to the Trust; ;;Breadth of knowledge of the British National Curriculum and conversancy of strategies and new initiatives in curriculum development, in particular the National Primary Strategy (DfEE, UK National Curriculum); ;;Proven management experience within an International School environment; ;;Successful experience of managing people, resources and budgets within an International School community; ;;Strong interpersonal skills and ability to act as ambassador for the School; ;;Academic credibility (recognized degree and teaching qualification) and good intellect; ;;Leadership skills and ability to motivate and influence; ;;Experience of and desire to further promote a programme for CPD (Continuing Professional Development); ;; Ability to plan strategically, set a vision and translate it into reality; ;;Good judgement and the ability to make difficult decisions when necessary. ;;Candidates must possess the energy and commitment to effectively develop best practice, ultimately striving to raise academic standards and pastoral care across the whole school. ;;Candidates must have a desire to promote team collaboration and staff development.

Class Teachers Applicants for teaching posts must:

;;Hold relevant qualifications from a recognized faculty of Education ;;Possess knowledge of the British National Curriculum / SATs ;;Proven experience with Primary aged children

Classroom Assistants for Early Years (P/T and F/T)

;;Classroom assistants required. Posts are part time (mornings only) and F/T (whole day). ;;Applicants for all posts at The Ashcroft School must possess the desire to work collaboratively within a committed and dedicated team.

CLASSIFIEDS 37

AMANYARA

PROVIDENCIALES TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

ASST. TECHNICIAL SERVICE MANAGER • Minimum Requirements necessary to be considered for an interview for this position: • Minimum 4 years’ experience as Chief Engineer/ Director at an internationally branded 5 star resort reporting to GM. • Formal training in Health & Safety, fire safety and preferably have LEED qualifications or accreditation is preferred. • Demonstrate very strong leadership skills with proven experience in overseeing 50 to 100 employees • Required to work 6 days, weekends / public holidays, nights as required to complete necessary strong work ethics • Individual needs to be hands on and out of the box thinker to solve issues to keep staff and machines working efficiently • Demonstrate ability to work with other resort department managers to resolve problems or issues in a timely manner Expected professional experience and job scope: • Provide reports to the General Manager on maintenance programs for the resort and support in the event of emergencies. • Safe operation of the steam boilers, feed water quality and proper water chemistry maintained. • Be knowledgeable of and able to operate waste water treatment plant, to ensure proper operation treatment, disposal of waste water to meet international Government standards as required • Maintain and oversee maintenance schedules for air conditioning, kitchen equipment, electrical HV and LV systems • Plumbing systems Including swimming pools and spa water chemistry; maintain and repair all laundry equipment including heavy duty washers, dryers and other steam driven laundry equipment. • Knowledge of repairing assorted gym equipment such as treadmills, elliptical machines and weight training system. • Ensure the department has the necessary parts and tools to hand in order to effectively carryout preventative maintenance • Liaison with the financial controller to ensure engineering budget are adhered to and maintained • Ensure that the resort is at its most energy efficient by putting systems in place to monitor energy use. • Oversee the maintenance and repair of all resort vehicles from diesel Land Rovers to electric carts; the daily operation of • (3) Desalination plants (160,000gls. Combined) and maintain the correct water levels at all times. • Knowledgeable of electrical diesel generators to maintain 20 separate 75 (KVA) and electrical generators. • Prepare monthly utility and maintenance reports to the finance department for the entire resort. • Ensure monthly Inspection of all fire safety systems and buildings, present reports to the GM • Oversee and manage the resort wide sector and control programs to ensure a comfortable environment for all guests. • Negotiate contracts with contractors for work at the resort and privately owned Villas. • Oversee all departments of engineering, landscape, woodwork, carpentry shop and sector control staff of 62 employees. • Plan and implement training of all staffs as necessary for engineering operation.

SOMMELIER Certified wine Sommelier with extensive knowledge of wines, beverage & bar, profound education of Old and New World wines. Able to pair wine with our degustation menus also explain characteristics of the wines. Knowledgeable to conduct wine workshops; to build entire wine list in line with our beverage purchasing as per budget, costing, pricing, promotion and marketing. Be in charge of all bins on wine list (ordering, receiving, storage to serving). Must be able maintain and ensure Aman service standards is render. Must be also to conduct wine training for entire F & B team in restaurant & bar, as well to maintain wine programs. Flexible & able to work required hours, team player, social, young, dedicated and passionate F&B professional (W/M). Professional appearance a must and able to communicate with our high end clientele, and willing to go the extra mile daily. Experience in similar position required, additional European Language besides English is an advantage Reports directly to F&B Manager.

Full applications by email or fax must be sent to:

All positions require a flexible schedule (which may include holidays, weekends and evenings) and extended hours on occasion. Salaries based on experience and qualifications.

The Principal, The Ashcroft School Fax: 941-4614 Email: taschool@tciway.tc

APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FROM THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE WEDNESDAYS ONLY 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM. E-mail mstubbs@amanresorts.com

38 CLASSIFIEDS

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GOVERNMENT OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS MINISTRY OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT SERVICES TELEFAX: 649-946-2740

To Mark the Start of the 2013 Hurricane Season Message from the Minister of Government Support Services – Hon. George Lightbourne

My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders and residents alike…. The 1st of June marks the beginning of the 2013 hurricane season. In light of this fact, one of the most serious obligations we have as a Government is the protection of our people in the face of potential disasters. As Minister of Government Support Services with responsibility for Disaster Management, I have placed preparation for 2013 Hurricane Season at the top of my agenda. I therefore urge all residents to take action to minimize their risks and vulnerability by planning ahead to reduce the chances of injury to self and damage to property, business and the environment. The Department of Disaster Management and Emergency (DDME) in keeping with its mandate and mission will collaborate with local, regional, and international agencies to

provide the highest standard of assistance in the event of a hazard or natural disaster. I support the efforts of the DDME in ensuring that adequate preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery mechanisms are established to counteract the impact of natural and man-man disasters. This government, through the DDME will continue to work with our local and regional partners to support disaster risk reduction for our residents. We will advise you of all risks, by informing you public through radio and all available media outlets about impending storms and offer you tips on preparing. I call on all residents to take the necessary measures to protect their homes and families in the event of a storm. These measures include updating insurance policies and developing a disaster plan. Please ensure that you have all necessary resources available

including, but not limited to food, water and medications, shutters, etc. Preparations should incorporate strategic planning for the safety of the elderly, infants, disabled, and also your pets. Remove all debris and ensure that your property is free from any potential flying objects. Secure important documents. Keep important numbers readily available. I once again appeal to you to prepare, because preparing in not an option; it is a must. And it is the only thing we can do to reduce the impact of a disaster. Do not be caught off-guard. Remember disaster is everybody’s business. God bless you and God bless the Turks and Caicos Islands. George Lightbourne Minister of Government Support Services

MINISTRY OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT SERVICES DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENCIES This year, we are observing Disaster Preparedness Month activities under the theme, “Disaster Management is Everybody’s Business”. No longer can Disaster Management be seen as the responsibility of any one entity. It needs the participation of government ministries, agencies and departments, private sector, key sectors for development, local governance and community participation. According to the UN press statement, here in the Caribbean, Anguilla, Turks and Caicos Islands, Cayman and Guadeloupe could all expect to lose 30% of their urban capital in the case of a high magnitude tropical cyclone. Many small islands are dependent on tourism an activity which is largely coastal and exposed to the ravages of climatic hazards. An impact can have devastating impact on the overall economy of these countries. A situation clearly illustrated in Grenada and Cayman after Hurricane Ivan, 2004. In Guyana, the 2005 floods lead to 4.6% losses to GDP; Hurricane Tomas in St. Lucia lead to losses in excess of US$336M and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti between 114-117% of GDP and right here at home in the Turks and Caicos Islands the devastation and suffering we experienced as a result of Hurricane Ike, in 2008 resulted in damage totaling $119.2 Million and is still fresh in our minds. I do believe that these figures again underscore what other National Disaster Managers in the region have been saying in their respective national jurisdictions.

WHAT IS A HURRICANE?

A hurricane is a large storm that develops over the ocean, it spins in a counter clockwise circle as it moves across the water. Some hurricanes stay over the ocean, but others move towards the shore and come unto land. Hurricanes have wind speed of 119 km/h (74 m/h) and greater and blows around a calm centre called an eye. The most destructive elements of a hurricane are: 1. Storm Surges 2. High Winds 3. Flood –Producing Rains

WHAT IS A STORM SURGE?

The greatest potential for loss of life related to a hurricane is from the storm surge! Storm surge is an abnormal rise of water generated by a

It is my sincerest hope that Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon’s statements will enhance our voices thereby leading to greater regional and national investment in reducing disaster risk, in enhancing our efforts towards sustainable or sustained economic development. In tackling the challenges faced by our islands as illustrated above, the DDME through support from its various Partners have mobilized a total of US$227,635.35 in Direct country level resourcing support. We have been able to train over 324 persons in DRR, upgraded some of our equipment, procured some relief items, hosted public education campaigns etc. This illustrates the Department’s commitment and we acknowledge the support provided by our local partners. June 1, 2013 marks the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Already the forecasters are predicting that it will be an above normal one. It will be active. NOAA suggests that there is a likelihood that there will 13 to 20 named storms of which 7 could become hurricanes 3-6 possibly becoming major hurricanes. These predictions are well above the seasonal averages hence the message is clear. “It is not if it happens but rather when it happens”. The extent to which we could be impacted will depend on the level of investment we put into preparing for and preventing as best as possible the negative consequences of this hazard.

storm, over and above the predicted levels. This rise in water level can cause extreme flooding in coastal areas, resulting in storm waves reaching up to 20 feet or more in some cases. Storm surge is simply water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the storm. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides to create the hurricane storm tide, which can increase the mean water level to heights impacting roads, homes and other critical infrastructure. In addition, wind driven waves are superimposed on the storm tide. This rise in water level can cause severe flooding in coastal areas, particularly when the storm tide coincides with the normal high tides. In the Turks and Caicos Islands we have to be mindful of the ever present threat of storm surges affecting the island territories and damaging our coastlines most of which lie between 0-2 metres above mean sea level. As a result, the danger from storm surges can extensive. The storm surge combined with wave action can cause extensive damage, severely erode beaches, buildings

We are advocating that there be significant efforts taken to boost sector level, businesses, family and individual readiness. In this regard, I wish to commend the staff of DDME who have worked tirelessly in promoting Hurricane Preparedness Week and Disaster Preparedness Month national campaigns. Looking beyond awareness raising, several initiatives have been undertaken to bolster operational readiness at the National levels. The National Level readiness has been built on the concept of readiness for all hazards. Country Level Readiness has also been bolstered through arrangements for planning for catastrophic events including planning for continuity of government operations; enhancement of national response architecture, improvements in national EOC’s (physical plants and operational arrangements). Plans have been reviewed and improved and national level simulation exercises conducted. This investment represents continued efforts to strengthen emergency response capabilities primarily to ensure greater country level success. The Atlantic Hurricane Season has officially startedJune 1. Let us pray for the continued safety of the nation. I wish for you all a disaster free Hurricane season. Dr. Virginia Clerveaux, Director DDME

and homes. Regional Risk Reduction Initiative - R31 Project (2012) Vulnerability assessment and quantitative risk assessment with focus on Storm Surge Mapping. One component of the project involved the following activities: • Preliminary vulnerability assessment - Hazard mapping exercises (susceptibility maps production) and Capacity building (training/workshops) • Structural vulnerability: Critical facility data collection and structural vulnerability (elements at risk) assessment • Proposition and estimation of mitigation measures • Technical review panel and public outreach

Continued 

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 39

YOUR DISASTER TIPS Hurricane If you live in a low-lying area when heavy rains (or a hurricane) are coming, it is often the best policy to get away to a safe spot in a shelter or friends home on higher grounds. If you have any doubts about the integrity of the building you live in, let discretion play the upper hand. Get out. Have an escape plan already prepared before the trouble starts. Check alternate routes to safe havens. Trees, debris or flooding could block your way and you have to change plans. Before you leave, shut off the water, electricity and gas at the meters or tanks. Leave a few windows slightly ajar to relieve the pressure in the case of hurricane. Make sure nothing that could be water damaged is near those windows. Put computers and other electronic equipment with plastic sheeting, well secured in case the roof goes. Put all valuable papers and photos into plastic, sealable freezer bags and put them in the refrigerator or the freezer. This will keep them positively dry in the case of structural damage and rain falling in the house – or even fire. Lock the doors.

FLOOD

The Astonishing Power! How can a foot or two of water cost you your life? Water weighs 62. 4 lbs. per cubic foot and typically flows downstream at 6 to 12 miles an hour. When vehicle stalls in the water, the water’s momentum is transferred to the car. For each foot the water rises, 500 lbs if literal force is applied to the car. Nevertheless, the biggest factor is buoyancy. For each foot the water rises to the side of the car, the car displaces 1,500 lbs. of water. In effect, the car weighs 1,500 lbs less for each foot the water rises. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles.

Before a Flood Find out whether you live in a flood plain. Just because an area has not flooded for many years does not mean it is not outside the floodplain. Most flood plains are “100-year” plains, meaning that, at least one in every hundred years a flood will take place, and, could be a whopper. Establish the nearest “high ground” location accessible to you and your family, preferably by automobile- but don’t count on having a car if a flood hits. The very best refuge from a flood is high ground – water does not run uphill. If there is any chance of you being a flood victim, the experts say to stockpile plastic sheeting, plywood, nails, hammer and saw, ply bar and plenty of sandbags. Plan and practice an emergency escape. People who live in flash flood areas should have several alternative evacuation scenarios. Make sure that sewer traps and cesspits have proper return valves installed and working so waste and water does not back up into any with a drain installed.

During a Flood: Stay glued to your radio for official warning and all clear signals. Climb to high ground and stay there. Avoid stepping into water or moving water. Even if shallow, it can knock you down and carry you away. Do not try to drive your car through floodwaters. There is no telling how deep they are or how swiftly they are moving. If your car gets caught in floodwater, get out of the vehicle immediately) and seek higher ground. Many people lose their lives in cars that are washed away.

After a Flood: Do not return home until the all-clear announcement is made. When you get home, fully inspect for damage. Do not enter a building that is still surrounded by flood water- it could be deadly. Be very careful to make sure that electrical services have been shut off. If you are unsure, find your main electrical box and throw your main switch to “off”. Do not do this while standing in water or on wet grounds. Find a dry, nonconducting object (like a tyre or wooden bench) to stand on while you throw the switch. Immediately take pictures of any damage for insurance purposes. Carefully look for fire hazards, like leaking gas (submerged pilot lights will be out, flooded electrical conduits and hazardous materials that may have been carried from elsewhere. Dispose of any food and beverages –including canned and bottled goods – that have come into contact with floodwaters. Do not drink tap water until authorities assure you it is safe.

PROTECTION AGAINST WATER DAMAGE Chances are, water will insinuate itself in your house in spite of your precautionary measures. Nevertheless, you can guard your most cherished possessions from damage and protect yourself from misery and desolation by following these simple recommendations: Acquire large, sturdy, impermeable bags to store small valuables such as jewellery, photographs and important documents. Objects of considerable size such as electronic equipment, paintings, sculptures and books must be stored in large, hermetically sealed or double- layered garbage bags. Make sure that the bag is absolutely impervious to water. Boxes are just as effective for encasing your belongings, in that they are spacious and allow for easier handling. Pad the box with a large plastic bag before putting objects in the box and if possible, wrap the large box with plastic sheeting. After the hurricane, the bags will still be beneficial for domestic use.

HURRICANE SURVIVAL KITS Essential Items

;;Bottled water for drinking ;;Water for personal hygiene ;;First aid kit and four week supply for prescription medications. ;;Non - perishable foods and beverages. (See food list) ;;Battery powered radio with extra batteries ;;Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste) ;;Towels and wash cloths ;;Toilet paper and paper towels ;;Baby supplies (diapers, wet wipes, medication) ;;Disinfectant, clean - up supplies and laundry detergent ;;Change of clothing, rain gear, gloves and sturdy shoes ;;Identification cards ;;Cards, games and books ;;Pillows and either blankets or sleeping bags ;;Mosquito repellent

OTHER IMPORTANT SUPPLIES FOR THE HOME

;;Matches (stored in a watertight plastic bag) ;;Oil lamps ( with extra fuel) ;;Fire Extinguisher ;;Wind-up or battery-powered clock ;;Charcoal and lighter fluid (for use only after the storm and

only outside) ;;Plastic trash bags ;;Paper plates and cups and plastic eating utensils ;;Plastic plates and cups and plastic eating utensils ;;Plastic tarp or plastic sheeting for roof or window repair ;;Water purification kit (tablets, plain chlorine bleach or iodine) ;;Tool kit, including nails, screws, duct tape, twine and rope. ;;Camera and film

Water – An Important Resource in an Emergency The problem of water contamination as a result of widespread flooding has adversely affected populations in the Caribbean. It therefore brings to focus the matter of the availability of this important resource especially in emergency situations. Persons need to make a conscious effort to store water for any eventuality. In the case of a flood, which may affect large sections of communities, it is important that persons store at least two weeks supply of water for each member of the family. This would have had to be done prior to a flood. In moderate conditions a normally active person requires a minimum of 1 litre of water per day for drinking purposes. However, additional water would be needed for sanitation purposes. We have to be mindful of the fact also, that the regular water supply may be suspended for weeks following your community being flooded. If there is a situation where persons were unable to store water, then at all counts drinking floodwaters should be avoided. Alternative sources of water should be found outside of the flooded community; namely a neighbouring town or village. During the normally dry months of February to April, the access to potable water is also a problem as individuals are also restricted in their daily activities by its availability.

How to make water safe At a domestic level, water must be treated before being used for drinking purposes, washing fruits and vegetables, preparing food and beverage, washing dishes and utensils. Potable water provided by a piped source is normally safe due to Public Health standards. During an emergency situation, for example, immediately after a flood event where pipelines may be damaged, then some purification may be necessary. It may be treated by: • Boiling; Allow water to boil for at least three to five minutes before removing from the fire. • Using Purification Tablets • Adding two drops of bleach to one litre (1quart) of water. • Eight drops of bleach to five litres (1 US Gallon) of water • or ½ teaspoon of bleach to twenty litres (5 US Gallon) of water The water should be stirred then allowed to settle for thirty minutes before it is used. To prevent contamination water should be stored in clean containers and covered to prevent mosquito breeding.

General Precautions As a general tip to users, if supplies run low, never ration water. Drink the amount you need and try to locate additional amounts as dehydration may occur. You can also minimize the amount of water your body needs by reducing activity and staying cool. The treatment of water for small children during these times is critical as the prevalence of gastroenteritis caused by ingesting contaminated sources of water could result in infant mortality.

Continued 

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENCIES

HURRICANE TIPS Do you have a Family Plan in the event of a hurricane? It is important that you prepare yourself, your family and home now for any storms that may be ahead. Check Insurance Policy; ensure policy is up to date. The roof is usually the most vulnerable part of the house during a storm. Therefore, attention should be paid to inspecting your roof at the start of the season and make repairs as needed. If you have hurricane shutters, inspect them now and repair damaged ones. Know how to install them. If you’re boarding up your windows, have the wood and tools handy. Clear your premises of discarded objects such as old cars, pieces of metal, tin, wood (including pallets). Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed, especially those near your house and power lines.

AREAS PRONE TO FLOODING PROVIDENCIALES GRAND TURK • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Wheeland, Blue Hills West Road At the back of Leeward Palms area North Backsalina (The Garden) In the area of Kingston, The Bight Palmgrove Long Bay Hills The Salinas Juba Sound South Backsalina (Virgil’s Square) Kewtown The Quarry Blue Hills (Old Clinic) Grand Turk, Central Creek Leeward Highway in the area of Cedar Lodge North Creek At the back of Glass Shack Close Haul Road The by-pass road leading to Five Cays

SOUTH CAICOS NORTH CAICOS • • • • • • •

The Flat Bottle Creek The Salinas, east of Primary School Kew Settlement East Canal Whitby Turtle Crawl

SALT CAY • Deans Dock Road • Airport Road • Portion of Folly Road

Shopping List Remember it is your responsibility to ensure that you have enough food and water for you and your family for up to three days or 72 hours after a storm.

WATER:

• Drinking water • Water to bathe, • prepare meals etc.

FIRST AID KIT:

• Petroleum jelly, aspirin, eye wash, • Bandages, cotton, diarrhea Medication, • Antacid, laxative

FOOD THAT DO NOT REQUIRE COOKING: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Canned or salted fish and Salted Meat Packaged oats Biscuits and crackers Condensed or powdered milk Canned soups and vegetables Cereals Coffee, tea, Milo, Horlicks, juices Flour, rice, cornmeal Sugar and salt Infant formula Biscuits

OTHER ITEMS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Battery-operated radio Portable cooler Flashlight 100 feet of rope Extra batteries Tape, nails Matches and hurricane lamps Needle, thread and scissors Blankets and towels Bleach and other cleansers Tissue, soap, sanitary Mosquito repellent Disposable cups, plates, utensils Tarpaulin (canvas or plastic) Can opener Hammer Large plastic trash bags Containers for water and fuel storage Coal or oil stove, barbecue grill Cooking utensils

Tropical Storm Watches and Warnings: 1. Alert: An alert is issued at 60 hours: A hurricane is approaching the area and residents should pay attention for Watches and Warnings. 2. Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical Storm conditions are possible along the coast within 48 hours. 3. Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical Storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.

Watches and Warning 4. A Hurricane Watch: Hurricane Conditions are possible in your area within 48 hours. During a Hurricane Watch, prepare to take immediate action to protect your family and property in case a Hurricane Warning is issued.

• • • • •

A windowless or interior room or hallway is usually the safest. Listen to the radio for information. If you are in a two-storey house, stay on the first floor. If your house shows signs of breaking up, stay under a table or stand under a door frame. • Do not go outside during the calm when the eye of the hurricane is passing.

Generator Tips In the event that power is lost from our power supplier, Fortis Power Company and a generator is required, please note the following precautions:

Generator Safety Precautions: When using a portable electric generator, remember these important safety precautions: • Use only qualified and approved electricians to install your portable generator. • Never connect a portable electric generator to your home wiring. This could cause the generator to back feed onto the power lines connected to your home. A nearby utility transformer could increase this back feed and cause damage directly to the transformer or to repair crews working on lines near your home. • Never plug a portable electric generator into a regular household outlet. Generators are not powerful enough to provide energy to an entire home. Connect only essential electrical equipment directly into the generator. • Do not overload the generator. Choose electrical equipment essential to remaining comfortable while the power company works to restore your power. When purchasing a portable generator, choose one that produces more power than will be drawn by the combination of lighting, appliances and equipment you plan to connect to it. • Use proper power cords to attach appliances to the generator. Use outdoor rated cords with a wire gage adequate for appliance overload. • To prevent electric shock, make sure the generator is properly grounded. • Never use a portable electric generator indoors or in an attached garage. Generators use an internal combustion engine that emits deadly carbon monoxide. Run the generator in a well-ventilated, dry area away from intakes into the home and protected from rain; an ideal spot would be under a canopy or in an open shed. • Store generator fuel outside of living area in a properly labeled, non-glass safety container. Vapor from gasoline can travel undetected and be ignited by pilot lighters or sparks. • Never refuel a generator while it is running; wait until it has cooled down. Guard against burns; generator engines are hot. • Before shutting a generator down turn off all appliances that are connected to it.

EVACUATION AND SHELTERS

5. Hurricane Warning: A Hurricane is expected in your area in 36 hours or less. Complete all storm preparations and evacuate if directed by local official.

When a hurricane threatens your area, you will have to make the decision whether you should evacuate or whether you can ride out the storm in safety at home. Most importantly make plans to stay with friends and relatives.

During the Storm

If authorities recommend evacuation, you should leave. Their advice is based on knowledge of the strength and size of the Hurricane and its potential for death and destruction.

• Be calm! Your ability to act logically is very important • Stay inside. Do not go outside unless it is absolutely necessary. • Stay away from windows and doors even if they are covered.

Persons who disregard the order to evacuate cannot be guaranteed assistance at the last minute.

CLASSIFIEDS 41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PERFECT IMAGING PRODUCTION Is looking for a

WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: Faces and Fingers, EY Contractor, P.J’s Barber Shop, Complete Construction

ROBERT WILLIAMS Is looking for a

ALBERT HIGGS NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a

Is looking to fill the following positions:

8793

per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 333-1763

Salary $6.00$7.00 per hour.

Contact: 345-7512

8794

Labourer To work 5 days

Cosmetologist Nail Technician Labourer Mechanic

labourer To work 5 days per week salary $800.00 per month Belongers need only apply

contact: 231-6346

8782

Warehouse Supervisor

ALICE MORLEY Is looking for a

Needed for a Gift Store on Grand Turk

Domestic

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

contact: 244-4665

Successful candidates must have a minimum of (2) three years work experience as a as a Supervisor and the ability to assist the Manager. Proficiency in MS Word and MS Excel and QuickBooks Pro as well as POS Systems and must be willing to work holidays and weekends Starting salary $400 per week. Applications together with a clean police record must be submitted no later than June 17th, 2013 to:

Jahmal Misick Misick & Stanbrook Tel: 946-4732 Fax 946-4734 Email info@misickstanbrook.tc

8804

Y.A.3.B CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: B’s Beauty Box, Katiusca Rodriguez, Back to the Island, Dominique Beauty Salon

2 hairdressers – $6.00 per hour Domestic worker – $5.50 per hour Sales Clerk – $6.00 per hour Cashier – $6.00 per hour Contact: 344-4540

Security Officer To work 6 days

BRUCE TRETHEWAY Is looking for a

Stone Wall Builder

per week salary $12.00 per hour.

Must have at least 5 years experience along with references. Must be willing to work 5 days per week. Salary $7.00 per hour

contact: 243-7785

Contact: 247-3851

8805

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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 MANUEL ANTONIO HERNANDEZ a national of The Dominican Republic by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

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 WILLIGINIA FABRE MORRIS a national of Haiti by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

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 MICHAEL GREGORY STOLOW a national of the USA by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

(Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance)

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July 6 - 12, 2013

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Bolt wants to continue dominating until 2016 OLDER and wiser, Usain Bolt is out to dominate his rivals on the track at least until the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The six-time Olympic champion, who is competing at the Areva meeting in Paris on Saturday, looks to be back in shape after his form and motivation were questioned following a defeat by American sprinter Justin Gatlin at the Golden Gala on June 6. Bolt has recovered since then by winning the 200 metres at the Bislett Games and running 9.94 on home soil over 100 metres at the Jamaican trials on June 21. And he clearly wants to keep that form going. “I want to continue dominating until the next Olympics. I have to work hard, train hard and stay focused,” Bolt told a news conference yesterday. “I’ve won everything already, but now it’s to show that I can be a dominant sprinter. You want to dominate for the rest of your career.” In some ways, losing to Gatlin may even have helped the tall Jamaican to get back into his stride. “I figured out what I needed to do to get back on target,” he said. “I’ve been working hard; I’ve been focused; I’ve been sacrificing a lot, so now I’m on target.” Bolt, who turns 27 in August, is preparing for next month’s World Championships in Moscow by racing

Usain Bolt is willing to work hard to stay on top.

the 200 metres in Paris, the ninth leg of the Diamond League. It’s a meet where he will face compatriots Warren Weir and Nickel Ashmeade, along with former 200-metre European champion Christophe Lemaitre of France. And it’s a meet he is clearly relishing. “I really enjoy running big races before championships. It tells you where you are and tells you what you need to work on,” he said. “I know these young guys are stepping up and they’re going to come running and pushing you to the limits.” Bolt is under no illusions about the task facing him on Saturday and also further down the road as a new generation of sprinters emerges. Weir won the 200 in Shanghai and

New York in May and clocked 19.79 in Kingston last month. However, Bolt reckons he has experience - as well as speed - on his side. “It’s going to be hard, it’s going to be challenging because there’s always going to be younger, faster kids coming up and challenging you,” Bolt said. “I look forward to the young kids coming up and I look forward to beating them also. “I think I’ve learned a lot over the past few years. You learn that some things you can’t do. When I was younger, I used to do a lot of different things. But now I have to sacrifice a lot more ... because the older you get, the more your body reacts to certain things. So I think I’m going wiser definitely.”

July 6 - 12, 2013

FIFA: Brazil World Cup to have ‘cheapest ever tickets’ TICKETS for next year’s World Cup in Brazil will be “cheapest ever”, football’s governing body FIFA says. FIFA Secretary-General Jerome Valcke said 70% of the matches would cost less than in previous events; ticket prices will be announced on 19 July. Mr Valcke and Fifa President Sepp Blatter praised the Confederations Cup in Brazil which ended on Sunday. The tournament was marked by protests against the high cost of the World Cup, corruption and poor public services. Mr Blatter said the Confederations Cup was a success despite the demonstrations which took millions to the streets. “I am happy we come to a conclusion now with a sporting result and the impression that the social unrest is now resting - I don’t know how long for,” he told reporters in Rio de Janeiro on Monday. ‘SOME UNCERTAINTY’ The head of FIFA also admitted there had been fears that Brazil would not be ready for the World Cup in 2014. Building work at some

stadiums was finished shortly before the start of the Confederations Cup and there were doubts about how the country’s infra-structure would cope with a large scale event. “When we started the competition there was some uncertainty what would happen,” Mr Blatter said. FIFA officials avoided commenting on security issues, saying they were a matter for the government to deal with. During the Confederations Cup there have been several clashes between protesters and security forces, who fired rubber bullets, pepper spray and tear gas into the crowds. There were reports that the public was affected by the gas inside the stadiums, including Rio’s Maracana, where Brazil beat Spain 3-0 in Sunday’s final. FIFA was one of the targets of protesters, who complained that football’s governing body gained profits exempt from tax and that high investments of public funds in the preparation for the international football events would have been better used for hospitals or schools. (BBC)

Mayweather credits once estranged father for his boxing longevity GLANCE at Floyd Mayweather’s complex life story and it’s hard not to be reminded of the lyrics to Sly and the Family Stone’s classic song: “It’s a Family Affair” --- “Blood’s thicker than the mud, it’s a family affair.” To start with there is the boxer’s relationship with his father, which has such a degree of bad blood that even psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud might have trouble exploring the demons that have been unleashed between father and son. In May, the pair were professionally reunited for the first time in 13 years as Floyd Sr. worked the corner during his son’s successful welterweight title defense against Robert Guerrero. The intervening years had been characterized by bitter rows and public slanging matches as the Mayweathers fell out to such extent that Floyd Sr. once told reporters he did not even know the names of two of his grandchildren. But as the man nicknamed

“Money” returned to the ring for the first time since serving a two-month jail term for a domestic violence conviction, he enlisted the help of his father. The official reason for his return two months ago was that the fivedivision world champion’s regular trainer -- Floyd Sr.’s brother Roger -- was too debilitated by diabetes to be relied upon. Mayweather Sr. had last taken charge of Floyd’s corner in 2000 prior to being booted out of his son’s house, and life, shortly after. A notable feature of Floyd Jr.’s unanimous points decision over Guerrero, the WBC’s interim champion while Mayweather was in prison, became the fact that he had tightened up his defense -- a product of his father’s work, the fighter says. “My dad is a remarkable trainer, a defensive wizard,” the man with the 44-0 record told CNN in an exclusive interview. “My dad brings everything. It all

started with my father. What’s been installed in me from the beginning is the less you get hit, the longer you last in the sport. My father was right.” Floyd Sr. knows about the importance of avoiding major injury all too well. He has frequently recounted how he was shot in the leg by Tony Sinclair -- the later brother of Floyd Jr.’s mother -- in 1978 “I got shot early in my career with a 20 gauge shotgun,” Floyd Sr. has said. “And I was holding my son when I got shot. Floyd was one at the time.” Floyd Sr. was holding his son during the shooting incident to ensure he was not hit in the face or upper body - a move that he believes saved his life. “I wasn’t going to put that baby down,” Floyd Sr. told the Los Angeles Times in 2012. “I didn’t want to die. It wasn’t about putting my son in the line of fire. I knew [Sinclair] wouldn’t shoot the baby. So he took the gun off my

Floyd Mayweather Jr. and his father

face, lowered it to my leg and bam!” Floyd Jr.’s defensive skills are such that he has long been known as “Pretty Boy” because of the fact he has boxed his many bouts so well his face has been largely unblemished. “It was basically for not taking any punishment,” said Floyd Jr. “You know, I can’t be over the age of 30 calling myself ‘Pretty Boy’. I’m a man.” His fight against Guerrero was the first of a six-part deal with Showtime, with every bout worth at least $32m to a sportsman named as the highest earner by Forbes magazine for 2012. When he signed the 30-month

deal in February, the 36-year-old Mayweather said it would be his last as a professional fighter and that he would be retiring when the contract ended. But he seems to have had a change of heart given comments he made on Monday while promoting his next fight -- against 22-year-old Mexican sensation Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in September. “After my five more fights, guess what? I think after (getting to) 49-0 we may stay in this sport a little longer,” Mayweather told a crowd some 5,000 strong at the Alamo in San Antonio.

July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports National Jamaican sprinter diagnosed with cancer one month before 2012 Olympics

Golden boot winner Spain’s Fernando Torres is flanked by silver boot winner Fred from Brazil (left) and bronze boot winner Neymar (right) after Brazil won the soccer Confederations Cup against Spain at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.

Brazil beat Spain 3-0 to win Confederations Cup FRED scored two goals and Neymar added another as host Brazil convincingly defeated world champion Spain 3-0 to win the Confederations Cup on Sunday as protesters clashed with riot police outside the Maracana Stadium. Fred put Brazil on the board less than two minutes into the match, Neymar added to the lead just before half-time and Fred netted his fifth goal in five matches early in the second half to give Brazil victory. The win for the host nation was surprisingly easy against the current world champion. Sergio Ramos missed a penalty kick for Spain in the 55th, sending his low shot wide. Spain defender Gerard Pique was sent off with a straight red card for fouling Neymar in the 68th. Brazil came in hoping a victory

would help it regain its status as a global powerhouse after recent struggles. Brazil was eliminated in the quarterfinals in the last two World Cups and hadn’t won a significant title since the 2009 Confederations Cup in South Africa. “The champion is back,” chanted the crowd of more than 73,000 people at the renovated Maracana. It also didn’t take long before the fans in a sea of yellow jerseys started teasing the Spaniards, chanting “Wanna play, wanna play!? Brazil will teach you.” The title gives Brazilian fans hope that the five-time world champions have a chance to win the World Cup title next year, although no Confederations Cup champion has ever won football’s showcase event the following year.

Olympic champion Hunter retires from rowing OLYMPIC gold medallist Mark Hunter has announced his retirement from rowing. The 34-year-old came second in the lightweight double sculls at London 2012 with Zac Purchase, having taking gold in Beijing. The pair also won gold at the 2010 and 2011 World Championships. “It’s tough to officially end my rowing career, but I know I’ve gone as far as I can and now it’s time to hang up my oars and look at new adventures,” said Hunter. “I really want to thank friends, coaches and sponsors who helped me capture my dream, but especially my family. “The journey through all the celebrations and struggles wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my parents, brother, and extended family. “With the Henley Royal

Regatta starting today, it seems like the perfect time and place to announce my retirement. It is the pinnacle of the British rowing calendar, taking place in Henleyon-Thames where I developed my skills and excelled with my club Leander.” Hunter (pictured on the left above) and Purchase first began racing together in 2007 and success came almost immediately as they won two silver medals and a bronze at the three World Cup events that year. They also won bronze at the 2007 World Rowing Championships in Munich before taking their first Olympic gold in 2008. Hunter was made an MBE in 2009 and was named Olympic Athlete of the Year for rowing in 2011 by the British Olympic Association. (BBC)

JAMAICAN runner Novlene Williams-Mills ran in the 2012 Olympics with a secret. She took fifth in the 400m and won a bronze with the Jamaican 400m relay team with information that only she, her husband, and select close friends knew. According to an interview with the Daily Mail, Williams-Mills was diagnosed with breast cancer a month before the Olympics. Days after her diagnosis, she won the 400m race at the Jamaican Championships and made their Olympic team. Three days after the end of a successful Olympics, she had a lumpectomy. Since then, she’s had a full mastectomy to reduce the chance of the cancer coming back. WilliamsMills’ sister died from ovarian cancer at 38. At 31, she didn’t want to take any chances. Not even her teammates on the relay knew what she was dealing with.

“That’s everybody’s dream, to run at the Olympics. But I was thinking about my hurdles that I have to come back to fight. I was thinking: “Am I going to survive this?, “ WilliamsMills said. “My team-mates in the relay did not know. But I was standing on the podium and I didn’t know if I would ever run another race.” But she did run again. In late June, she won the 400m at the Jamaican Championships, just as she did the year before. It qualified her to run at the world championships in Moscow in August. She said she will run for all those with breast cancer. “I’m still one of the top 400m runners in the world and I want to see what I can do. Moscow will be for all the breast cancer survivors out there. I want them to know it’s still possible.” Williams-Mills’ isn’t alone as an Olympian who has dealt with cancer. Like Williams-Mills,

Williams Mills won bronze for Jamaica in the 400M relay although she had, only a few weeks before, been diagnosed with breast cancer.

American swimmer Eric Shanteau was diagnosed with testicular cancer days before the 2008 Olympics. He still swam a personal best in Beijing, and then won gold in 2012. U.S. beach volleyball player Jake Gibb was found to have high levels of testosterone during a test that is routine for elite athletes. It led doctors to his testicular cancer, which was treated by surgery. He then competed at the London Olympics.

German sends world number one Serena Williams out of Wimbledon THE seeds just can’t stop tumbling out of Wimbledon and on Monday it was the turn of world No.1 and fivetime champion Serena Williams to experience that sinking feeling. The American crashed out of the grass court grand slam in the last-16 following a shock defeat by Germany’s Sabine Lisicki -- her first reverse in 35 matches. Favorite for the title, Williams lost the opening set 6-2 before roaring back to level a pulsating contest by taking the second 6-1. But Lisicki, seeded 23rd at the tournament, produced one of the greatest performances of her career, coming from a break down to take the final set 6-4 and send shockwaves through tennis. After knocking out the defending champion, the 23-year-old German burst into tears of joy when addressing the media for the first time. “I am still shaking, I am so happy,” she told the BBC. “Serena played a fantastic match, she is such a tough opponent. It is an amazing feeling to win this match. “This is such a special place for me and the crowd were brilliant to me. I gave it everything I had, I

German Sabine Lisicki produced the shock of the tournament.

fought for every single point to try to win it somehow.” A Wimbledon semifinalist in 2011, Lisicki will play Estonia’s Kaia Kanepi for a place in the last four. The German has never gone past the fourth round at any grand slam outside of Wimbledon but she has an impressive record at The All England Club, having reached the quarterfinals three times, and a curious one as well. For she has beaten the reigning French Open champion at all four of

her last Wimbledon championships. Since she missed the 2010 edition through injury, the run starts in 2009 when she beat Svetlana Kuznetsova, a success that has now been followed by defeats of Li Na in 2011, Maria Sharapova the following year and Williams herself on Monday. In a tournament packed with shocks, the dethroning of 16-time grand slam winner Williams is arguably the greatest of all -- despite the defeats for Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in the opening rounds last week.

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

Rugby skipper says national U-19 boys “will do their best” TCI’s junior rugby skipper Andrew Seymour said that his team is charged and ready to compete in its first ever NACRA U-19 15s tournament. A total of 10 teams will compete at the event with four battling for the NACRA Trophy in Trinidad from this Saturday. Among them will be the Bahamas, favourites Guyana and newcomers TCI and St. Lucia. The six others will compete in the NACRA Cup. Seymour is looking forward to winning all three games. Whatever the outcome he promises 100% from the young side. The youth captain is expecting Guyana to pose the toughest challenge to the TCI side – which is match two (July 9) of the three they’ll play. First up is the Bahamas (July 7) and lastly they’ll face St Lucia (July 12). Our local side has a mixture of experience and raw talent, with a number of new faces making the cut from the ones that toured Toronto last year. A few returning players are now based overseas, but they bring with them the experience they have gained from playing with new teams added to the grounding they received in the TCI junior rugby programme as they were growing up. Seymour thinks they have good depth in the backs and if they can match it with the opposition forwards then there should be plenty of opportunity for the side to score points. None of the TCI players has travelled to Trinidad before so

Jeff Beljour won the U-15 CoE most improved player award

Coed TCIFA World Cup:

Andrew Seymour will lead TCI to their first ever NACRA U-19 15s tournament.

they are pretty excited about the opportunity to see some new places and represent their country overseas. The young skipper said that the

trip would not have been possible without the support of all the sponsors. He said that the boys hope to do them.

Henry hits ton in the Bahamas

EARL Henry scored his fourth century in club cricket and in the process propelled St. Agnes into the final of the Bahamas Cricket Association’s 40 over tournament recently at the Haynes Oval. The Quality Supermarket batsman who was on vacation in the neighbouring country will use the batting experience for next Saturday’s semi-final against the Guyana Jaguars in the HAB Group Senior Men’s T20 Cricket Competition. Ironically Henry is a Guyanese and was a former Jaguars’ allrounder. The winner of the clash will reach defending champions Beaches later this month in the final.

Earl Henry scored his fourth century in club competitions recently.

Holland win 5-a-side title – Individual awards handed out IN APPRECIATION of the many players that represented the TCIFA in the various football leagues, the football association held a “5-a-side” Coed Tournament last Saturday followed by a presentation evening. Players from AFC Academy, AFC Hurricanes, AFC Strikers and the CoE U-15 Boys played in an eightteam World Cup competition. The fun event pitched players of all abilities and ages as well as both sexes against each other. In the end it was Holland who lifted the World Cup after a closely fought game against Italy. Argentina defeated Brazil for third place. Technical Director Matthew Green was delighted with the afternoon’s competition: “It was good to see all the players and coaches relaxing and having some fun. It is important that we remember that football is just a game and we should not take things too seriously. Having said that there was some great skills on display today.” Following the tournament all the players received certificates, and trophies were handed out to individuals that had been particularly impressive during the season. The U-15 CoE Boys who will face opposition from the USA in August had their awards go to Jeff Beljour (Most Improved) and Mackenson Cadet (Player of the Season). Beljour

has become an accomplished player who can play a variety of positions and Cadet continues to lead his team both on and off the field with his professionalism and commitment to the sport. Both awards for AFC Academy went to the hard working David Jasmine whose has become one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the country. For the female teams, Ketani Marajah picked up the most improved award for the Hurricanes with Sydnee Campbell receiving the Player of the Season award. Both young players are dedicated to the sport and have all the qualities to become excellent players. Trincy Reid, who has become one of the most feared defenders in the women’s game, won the Most Improved Player trophy for the WFL. The lethal finishing of Yarileny De La Cruz ensured she received the Player of the Season award after leading the AFC Strikers to many victories. TCIFA President Chris Bryant was full of praise for the players that have represented the association over the past twelve months saying: “It is pleasing to see that not only have you all (the players) improved your skill levels, you have a clear love of the game and you have a sense of fair play and respect. This bodes well for the future and I hope you will all continue to work hard and make the most of your talents”.

July 6 - 12, 2013

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

National athletics coach says TCI must get act together – Teray Smith and TCI’s former Munro boys weigh in on Williams’s switch DELANO Williams’s athletic migration to Great Britain should not go unheeded, opined national coach Alvirto Smith, who is fearful that if concerted efforts are not made by all stakeholders more athletes might decide to switching allegiance. Although some are sad, many persons have applauded the decision by Williams to run fulltime for GB, more so because he continues to improve. CARIFTA gold medallist and former TCI sprinter Teray Smith and Williams’ former Munro College teammates: now US based long jumper Ifeanyi Otuonye, Angelo Garland and DeAngelo Germain have all empathised with the World Youth 200M champion. Coach Smith called the move: the best for Williams’s career, but indicated that if TCI don’t act quick there could be more athletes getting ready to leave these shores. “I am very happy for him, in my opinion it is the best move for his [Williams’s] career as Turks and Caicos had opportunities to make things right with him, others and the sport of track and field. We really have to get our act together here, or we will continue to miss out on the next best thing,” Smith said. Williams has grown to become a household name in Jamaica (where he attended high school) and he is touted globally as the man to end Usain Bolt’s reign. He excited the British media because his 200M’s Champs run (20.27s earlier this year) was faster than all the British sprinters had done over the last five years. DÉJÀ VU Former national athlete Teray Smith, who enhanced his career when he started to run for the Bahamas (with 2013 CARIFTA Games U-20 200 M gold to his name), said he understands Williams’s position. “Yea I think it’s a smart choice, and I was in his position so that’s why I ran for the Bahamas instead of Turks and Caicos.” National long jumper Otuonye

said he supports Williams’s decision. “If you have an opportunity that can better your standard of living in anyway wouldn’t you take it? They teach you in school growing up to reach for your goals and grab every opportunity you can get a hold on, take it and move forward. That’s just what he did…They [the UK] can accommodate Delano as a pro more efficiently than TCI at the moment. Delano’s time is now and TCI is doing a little better in relation to athletics, but just not enough at the time to embrace Delano. This is a confident statement, but my time will soon come and I hope by then I can say “TCI has a lot to offer me.” Garland, who has improved over the last year, and Germain, also weighed in on the issue. “Honestly I think that he made a decision to benefit himself. Meaning that yes I agree that Turks has brought him a long way, but what’s next for him is the question. Well I think that going to Britain will benefit him both financially and athletically. I also agree that he was a little bit harsh against Turks, but at the end of the day it’s his opinion that matters most to him,” Garland pointed out. Germain called the move a “great opportunity” and said that Williams has “been very grateful for the opportunity the Turks and Caicos government had offered him. Even though on the track he’ll wear the Great Britain uniform he is not only representing Great Britain, but he’s also representing the Turks and Caicos Island by heart.” MAJOR PROBLEMS Smith said that there are two major problems with sports in the TCI: funding and the Sports Commission. Additionally he feels that sporting bodies need to get more power which would force them to be more accountable. “The heads of each sporting bodies are elected...these persons should be the ones directly responsible for all organisation of their individual sport, and allowed to oversee the development in the country.”

Delano Williams now runs for Great Britain

He added that getting the Sports Commission too involved slows down the process. “The Sports Commission is like a middle man... it’s always difficult to get a job done when a middle man is involved. The government should give grants to the individual sporting bodies... hold them accountable for the management of said fund.” TCAAA TRYING Smith said that the Turks and Caicos Islands Amateur Athletic Association (TCAAA) has come a “very long way” and although it wants to perform better and provide more at times its hands are tied. “TCAAA is non-profit...it barely has funds to send off a team.” The coach stated that although the athletic association is the local representative for international body the IAAF, they still need to “get permission from Sports Commission to host a meet and pay for the use of the stadium”. “So when TCAAA has to pay the government to develop track....u have to ask...why pay to do good?”

National coach Alvirto Smith

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013

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July 6 - 12, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

July 6 - 12, 2013