Weekly News Volume 25 | No. 24 | June 18 - 24, 2011
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‘Time to move
New Governor appointed ECONOMICS and defence expert Damian Roderic Todd is set to become the TCI’s new Governor this September. PAGE
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forward’ FCO Minister is ‘optimistic’ following constitutional talks
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SIGNIFICANT changes to the proposed constitution have been made and elections are on track for 2012.
Toddler dies in fire
A TWO-YEAR-old toddler died tragically in an early morning inferno after being left alone in a Five Cays apartment on June 14. PAGE
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Power cut off in government buildings
GOVERNMENT buildings across the TCI were forced to shut down this week after PPC disconnected electricity due to a shocking $3m in outstanding debt. PAGE 7
The seven strong TCI delegation put forward their views on constitutional reform in London
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
NATIONAL
Lillian Misick says UK ministers failed – Consultative forum chair blames Bellingham for delays UK MINISTERS have done nothing to win the “hearts and minds” of the TCI people and are responsible for delays in constitutional reform. That’s according to consultative forum chair Lillian Misick who attended this week’s eleventh-hour constitutional talks in London. In her scathing opening statement on Wednesday Ms Misick also scorned the motives of “selfinterested” political leaders. She insisted that they had no “greater mandate” to speak than any other member of the seven-strong delegation. Ms Misick began her speech by hitting out at Minister Henry Bellingham and his team at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. “I believe we are here today - in these forced and adversarial circumstances - in large measure because of your failure in this respect,” she said. She went on to say that the 18 months of consultations were “far from perfect”. “I am convinced, for instance, that if the FCO had heeded our advice to appoint a local expert to work alongside Kate Sullivan, this process would have gone a lot smoother and, more importantly, the resulting draft constitution at issue would have been far better received.” However, she commended Ms Sullivan for her invitation to hear all concerns and the All-Party Commission for their submissions. Then Ms Misick said she looked forward to engaging in substantive discussions on the draft constitution. “I believe most provisions are fine as drafted, but that some should be modified, while others should be added.”
Entitlement to vote and Belonger status were among her topics of interest. She asked that the word citizen be substituted wherever the word Belonger appears in the draft constitution. The section on the office of deputy Governor should be modified to get rid of superfluous language that only fosters “suspicion and distrust”, Ms Misick added. “It’s upsetting enough that anyone in the UK government even thinks that we don’t have anyone in TCI ‘who is suitably qualified and able and willing to be so appointed’. “That this thought is actually codified in our draft constitution is just too insulting for words.” She said that the section on the exercise of the Governor’s functions
Lillian Misick began her speech by hitting out at Minister Henry Bellingham and his team
should also be modified so that it does not read as if it confers upon the Governor the powers of a royal
regent. “I must confess however that far too many of our people, among them political leaders who should know better, behave in a way that shows little regard for the fact that the UK, through the office of the Governor, retains sovereign authority over the TCI.” Ms Misick stressed that a section on public funding of elections should be added to the constitution because “private funding is the root cause of corruption”. The consultative forum chair asked that a seat should be provided in the UK Parliament for the TCI. “This will not only facilitate the increased engagement and interaction with the UK government that are necessary to build mutual trust and respect, it will also formalise links with the British society as a whole that come with the opportunities our people have to live, work and study in the UK.” She ended by condemning the
actions of the country’s political leaders. “Frankly, they have shown no greater regard for this process than they have shown for the milestones you, Minister Bellingham, set out for the interim period,” she said. “Instead they have propagated the plainly self-interested notion that there was nothing wrong with the TCI that immediate elections could not remedy. “But I urge the whole UK government to beware that these party leaders do not have any greater mandate to speak for the people of the TCI than any other member of this delegation.” She concluded: “The vast majority of our people welcomed your intervention; the vast majority of our people support your efforts to restore good governance and economic sustainability; and the vast majority of our people are anxiously awaiting a return to self-rule as soon as practicable.”
‘Our way of life is on trial’ – Doug Parnell – PDM leader says Sullivan's constitution was against the will of the people PDM PARTY leader Doug Parnell called for a constitution that gives TC Islanders “greater autonomy over our destiny” this week.
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 Gemma Handy – Associate Editor Rebecca Bird – News Editor Faizool Deo – Sports Samantha Dash – Court Cord Garrido-Lowe – Graphics/Production Editor Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams – Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, (Talk Back) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com
And he said he hoped to prove the importance of the political parties during the two-day constitutional reform talks in London. In his opening statement on Wednesday, the passionate politician said significant changes must be made to the proposed new constitution. “Most observers to these talks including the international community, the UK Parliament, the TCI people, Caricom and our brothers and sisters in the other Overseas Territories, are watching carefully to see if you continue to listen or whether they amount to a rubber stamping of a rejected proposal,” he said. Mr Parnell opened his speech by stressing that the party believes in a system that is “democratic and accountable”. “We therefore cannot support any measure that will cause regression of the Turks and Caicos people and our rights. “We submit that the aims of improving integrity in public life, more efficient arrangements for
PDM party leader Doug Parnell
government, and an improved justice system, achieving a parliament representative of the people, bettering public financial management and promoting an inclusive community are not at odds with constitutional advancement, however this draft does not accomplish this for our people.” Mr Parnell said that when the constitution was suspended in 2009, TCI’s “system of government and way of life” were put on trial. “Simply put, it wasn’t our 2006 constitution or its organs that failed
but those elected by the people and the decision makers at FCO that failed to act appropriately on behalf of the people.” He added: “Out of a sense of love, compassion and duty to our people we have made efforts to at home and here in London to alter this approach.” The PDM leader said that the proposed draft constitution was an “overreaction to correct an anomaly in our history” and the arguments that underpin the changes were “very flawed and dangerous”. “During these discussions we intend to disprove these arguments and prove that through our history, though not perfect, our people have sought to advance constitutional measures to protect the rights of individuals, improve the checks and balances in the administration of government, and most importantly promote the institution of integrity in public life.” He concluded by saying that the PDM party’s plea is for the UK Government to reconsider its approach and enact a constitution that gives the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands greater autonomy over their destiny. Attempts to contact PNP leader Clayton Greene for a copy of his opening statement were unsuccessful up to press time.
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NATIONAL
‘Time to move forward’ – Bellingham SIGNIFICANT changes to the proposed constitution have been made and elections are on track for 2012. That’s the word from FCO Minister for Overseas Territories Henry Bellingham. Thursday’s announcement came following two days of “very fruitful” talks on constitutional reform in London this week. A seven member TCI delegation visited the capital to persuade ministers to alter their stance on some of the draft document’s most contentious prescripts. And as a result details surrounding Belongership bestowal, the electoral system, and the Governor’s role were all changed for the final constitution package. Mr Bellingham told media that it was a “very important milestone”
which he hoped would lead to the TCI having a “really bright future”. “I am grateful to the delegation for accepting my invitation to come to London so that I could hear first hand their views on the draft constitution,” he said. “I followed reports of the public meetings in TCI with great interest and was pleased to have the chance to talk through many of the issues that prompted such strong debate. “The delegation has taken part in extensive and constructive talks with senior officials in the Foreign Office over the past two days.” The Minister outlined ten significant changes to the constitution, the first being the rejection of a ‘mixed member proportional’ electoral system. “I recognise that many people share our concerns about the
Leader of the All Party Constitution Commission Wendal Swann and pastor Bradley Handfield
FCO Minister is ‘optimistic’ following constitutional reform talks
transactional politics which have existed in TCI for many years,” he said. “But I also understand the political parties’ preference for the first past
the post voting system. “I am willing to drop our proposal for a mixed member proportional system, and remain with the present system where all elected members of the House of Assembly are elected by the first past the post system.” He then announced that membership of the House would consist of 10 constituency members, five “at large” or “territory wide” members and four appointed members. And the Electoral Boundary Commission will be drafted by FCO officials. The TCI’s new Premier will not be able to hold office for more than two terms unless at least one term has expired in between. The Governor’s powers will be
Youth Ambassador Trevon Farrington
Consultative forum chair Lillian Misick and advisory council member Doreen Quelch-Missick
FCO Minister for Overseas Territories Henry Bellingham
PNP delegation Royal Robinson, leader Clayton Greene and E Jay Saunders
increased as previously suggested, but he or she will have to consult the Secretary of State before exercising many of these powers. This will “guard against a return to the situation that led to the Commission of Inquiry,” Mr Bellingham said. He added that the Governor is “not above the law” and can be held to account for his or her actions in the courts like any other public official. Minimum conditions for the grant of Belongership have been included in the new constitution and the term Belonger is set to be replaced by ‘Turks and Caicos Islander’. The Minister went on to confirm that according to the new constitution the Deputy Governor should be a continued
PDM delegation Floyd Seymour, leader Douglas Parnell and Beryn Duncanson
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
SIPT progress
Last week the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) announced that investigations into corruption-accused Islanders are full steam ahead and “good progress” is being made. They said that since becoming operational 14 months ago statements have been gathered, search warrants executed and a number of arrests have been made – all while remaining well below budget. However details have been kept to a minimum “to protect the integrity of the investigation and the rights of those individuals involved”. What are your thoughts? Do you feel satisfied that SIPT is making progress? Are you happy with the amount of information the Helen Garlick-led body is releasing? What would you like to see done differently?
Impatient
The announcement by Helen Garlick last week that progress was being made is welcome in sum. Once started, 14 months later, one must agree that the investigation seems to be dragging along. So I am impatient at the pace of the investigation but we have come this far. I encourage Helen Garlick and her team to press on, stay the course and wrap the investigation up. Silence may help the wrongfully accused and the innocent because if people are wrongly fingered by bitter enemies, then SIPT doesn’t have to apologise to them if they are released from further investigation owing to undue and unfair publicity. The signs, however, are ominous though that figures like Ashcroft, Mike Misick, PPC
etc are all flexing their muscles at the same time. Is there an agenda afoot to scuttle the investigatory process, end the mission of the SIPT and return these islands back to rule by developers, let these former ministers and developers go scot free and another puppet government controlled by developers is elected again? One must think about this. There is heightened urgency on the part of the public to speed up the investigations, recover more lands like Dellis Cay and Salt Cay Devco, return the islands back to the people. One must register concern about these matters; pressure the SIPT to be more productive, force a proactive approach to completing the investigation and most of all recover the hundreds of millions of dollars taken from the people.
For my sake, your sake, the children’s sake and the future’s sake of these islands, one can only hope and pray that what Helen Garlick is saying, that she will get to the bottom of where the country’s monies went, prosecute the ministers, is true. One must have faith in the process, same as one must have faith in God. Not that I am comparing Helen Garlick and her people to God but if this process is not real, will not yield any results, then God help us all.
Development
All of this is fine but what the people should be asking is when are we going to have elections so that our country can move forward? Why are we acting like we are the most corrupt country on earth? Every country has their moments with bad government, why can’t we move forward in spite of the pass? When are we going to stop wining so that we can start to grow? This is only taking away from the real issue and that is our development.
Power bill?
Perhaps someone should have been paying attention to paying the power bill instead.
Change of tact
Isn’t it interesting that when TCI was forced to pay for Helen Garlick’s investigation and we complained at the lack of progress and cost that the British Government told us how necessary it was. Apparently now that the Brits are paying for the investigation, they have, as they did in the past with her investigation in the UK, told her to wind it up by December as it’s too costly and taking too long. Hmmmmm.
Godspeed
Everyone likes to be ‘in the know’, including me - but as long as the arrests DO come, THIS year, and the gang all go to jail, I’ll be happy. I don’t care that they have not spent time and effort on letting us know what they are doing from minute to minute. Oh, and it would be nice if the fruits of the poisoned tree - their businesses and bank accounts and other real property could be ‘removed’ from them too. I will not presume to know how to run an investigation like this. I do wish them Godspeed.
Embarrassing
Pathetically slow, is the best description. I do not think they quite realise that they are actually holding the whole country back since until this has all been dealt with we cannot move forward. I do wonder if sometimes they are just having a good time here and want to drag it out as humanly possible. As for staying below budget, I think we would all agree that until something happens in the form of prosecutions nothing has been accomplished and if by using more of the budget more progress could be made ASAP we would all be happier. The speed, or lack of it, has become embarrassing!
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
‘I can no longer remain quiet’ – Michael Misick – Former Premier speaks out EX-LEADER Michael Misick broke a year long silence this week to speak out against the interim government and to advocate independence. In a strong worded statement to press he spoke of “the complete destruction” of the Turks and Caicos Islands. He described Governor Gordon Wetherell as a dictator and named the consultative forum and advisory council as two “puppet bodies” run by “heartless” TC Islanders. “There is no future for us in the UK, under the UK of from the UK,” he said. “Let us stop wasting time and warming up old yesterday harmony. Let’s seek our independence now!” In his 1,300 word release, which was sent to media on Wednesday, Mr Misick talked at length about the achievements of his PNP administration. “People who had done business with the government were paid and paid on time,” he
said. “We attracted billions of dollars in foreign investments, construction was booming and everyone was working. “Belongers were being empowered thought land grants and other business opportunities. “Not only did we balance our budget six years in a row but we had a surplus budget six years in a row.” The former Premier, currently under investigation for serious government corruption, said that three years later there is a “climate of fear”. “Unemployment is almost at 30 percent, there is no inward investment, crime is at a all time high, civil servants are being laid off left right and centre with no options for private sector employment,” he wrote. “The British and their dictatorial government still will not take responsibility for their actions. “The British interim invasion killed
Former Premier Michael Misick
the inward investment buzz and killed our economy. “And now three years after taking control of the Turks and Caicos Islands they want to turn and blame us.” He went on to say that the British government has to take responsibility for the “depression” that they caused in the TCI. “It was never this bad not even under the PDM, even they was [sic] a better government than the interim administration.” Mr Misick said that the British
administration made a “mockery” of the constitutional process. He added that constitutional discussions in London amounted to a “fruitless talk and gum beating session” and demanded a referendum. “Just as the British citizens only a few short months ago had a referendum on whether or not to change there voting system. “We the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands should have a referendum first on whether we want to remain a British colony and secondly on any proposed constitution. “Only thought a referendum can the true will of the people be established.” He concluded by asking American President Barack Obama, to use his influence with the British to intervene on behalf of the TCI people. “President Obama made a great speech at the British Parliament about freedom and democracy for Egypt, Yemen, Syria and Libya, but what about us in the Turks and Caicos Islands only 500 miles off America’s door step? “What about us? What about us? What about us?”
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NATIONAL
Power cut off in government buildings
– $3m owed to PPC GOVERNMENT buildings across the TCI were forced to shut down this week after PPC disconnected electricity due to a shocking $3m in outstanding debt. Hundreds of students were sent home from school and civil servants were unable to work because of Tuesday morning’s power-out. Among the departments affected were the Immigration Department, the Education Department, The Treasury and Engineering and Maintenance Services. PPC said they made the drastic decision after waiting “patiently”
for payment for two years, to no avail. Power was switched back on later on Tuesday afternoon after the two bodies came to an agreement. PPC’s CEO Eddinton Powell said: “For its part, PPC deeply regrets the inconvenience to the general public, but this situation has been dragging on for a long, long time.” A statement from the TCI Government press office on Tuesday evening described the action as “disruptive” and “most regrettable”. According to the release, the Ministry of Finance has been in
discussion with PPC since early 2011 in an effort to resolve differences in relation to its account with the company. And while funds have been available to pay PPC since the completion of the refinancing package on 22 February 2011, TCIG’s position is that PPC has not provided all the information needed to fully verify the outstanding amount due to them. The statement went on to say that it would have been irresponsible to use the taxpayers’ money to make full payment until the liability has been properly established. As a gesture of goodwill TCIG made a payment of $500,000 on May 31 which PPC acknowledged.
In response to the statement, PPC sent its own release to media in which it claimed to be “a responsible corporate citizen”. It said that the company does not act “irrationally or irresponsibly” and the government press statement fails to tell the full story. The release explained that PPC has been working with the interim government on their indebtedness since August of 2009. As of today’s date, the government owes the company in excess of $3m, including almost $1m for electricity. “This is after they arbitrarily decided to pay $500,000, which we informed them on numerous occasions was not enough to bring their accounts current,” the statement read. “We accept the interim government’s claim that their bookkeeping is in some disarray. “We however have been patient for almost two years, while these balances grew larger and larger.” PPC’s statement revealed that the interim government signed a debt settlement agreement which has not been kept.
The company also provided the interim government with several “extensive spreadsheets”, detailing their indebtedness to no avail. “TCIG’s reason for not paying PPC is analogous to someone saying to a bank: ‘I will not pay my mortgage because I cannot reconcile my cheque book.’ “We sell electricity daily to the government on credit and bill them monthly, which they then take months to pay for. “PPC has to pay oil companies, employees, and other suppliers daily, weekly, and monthly. “If PPC goes bankrupt, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, and South Caicos will have a blackout; something the interim government does not appear to appreciate. “For months the interim government claimed to have the money to pay PPC, so clearly there is no excuse for allowing this matter to get to this unfortunate point.” TCIG officials met with PPC on Wednesday to continue discussions aimed at reaching a mutually satisfactory settlement.
Time to move on continued from
Concerned neighbours found the body of the child huddled near the front door
Toddler dies in fire A TWO-YEAR-old toddler died tragically in an early morning inferno after being left alone in a Five Cays apartment on June 14. At this point, it is still unclear what caused the fire that completely destroyed the wooden one room studio and police investigations are ongoing. Around 2am on Tuesday morning, concerned neighbours found the body of the child huddled near the front door. A next-door neighbour who declined to go on record, said that he was not asleep at the time but he did not smell any smoke or hear any screams. “I was on my bed talking with my
friend and listening to the Haitian radio station when I hear ‘Fire, fire!’.” The men rushed out of their dwelling and saw the wooden shack already engulfed in thick flames. Thinking to help, the friend rushed to the burnt-out door but was met with the child’s lifeless body. “There was plenty fire and he was already dead,” the neighbour said. The man claimed that the child was frequently left at home while his mother went about her business in Five Cays. “That hour I go on the road I always see her,” the source stated. Firefighters rushed to the scene and with the use of appliances
and the water tanker were able to extinguish the flames in one hour. Firefighter Ian Arthur said: “The building was completely destroyed; thankfully we saved adjoining buildings which could well have gone up in smoke too.” Meanwhile, an InterHealth Canada spokesman confirmed: “The mother of the dead child was treated by staff in the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre emergency department for emotional distress.” She was later taken into police custody but it is unclear whether she will be charged. A post mortem will be conducted to ascertain the cause of death of the infant.
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Turks and Caicos Islander. He said that the issue of trial by jury will not be changed from that of the draft constitution. “I would like to reiterate that trial by jury is not being abolished. “The relevant ordinance merely provides flexibility where it appears to the presiding judge that trial by jury would not meet the interests of justice. “There is a similar provision in UK law.” And finally a new preamble has been added to the constitution which clearly affirms TCI’s religious beliefs. Mr Bellingham concluded: “As I expected, there was not consensus amongst us on all provisions. “This has meant that there have been difficult decisions taken on some sensitive and important issues. “I have tried to be as flexible as possible but it is important that UK interests and those of the people of TCI are protected as robustly as possible to avoid a return to the situation which led to the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry in 2008. “This has been a lengthy
consultation process. I am convinced that we have got a good result for the people of TCI. “It is now time to move forward. I want to see continued progress against the milestones I and Alan Duncan, Minister of State for International Development identified in December, which I still judge are necessary to enable us to hold elections in TCI in 2012.” The TCI delegation at this week’s talks comprised PNP leader Clayton Greene, PDM leader Douglas Parnell, consultative forum chair Lillian Misick, advisory council member Doreen Quelch-Missick, pastor Bradley Handfield, leader of the All Party Constitution Commission Wendal Swann, and Youth Ambassador Trevon Farrington. And discussions were attended by the Foreign Secretary William Hague, Minister for State for International Development Alan Duncan along with Mr Bellingham. The results of the talks were the culmination of a 15 month process of consultation on revisions to the 2006 TCI Constitution.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
NATIONAL
Joe Grant Cay returned to government – First judgment reached in major civil recovery case ECO haven Joe Grant Cay has been returned to the Crown amid alleged corruption on the part of both former Premier Michael Misick and developer Cem Kinay. Following lengthy civil recovery proceedings, Attorney General Huw Shepheard concluded that there was a “very strong probability” that Dr Kinay bribed the ex-leader for use of the tiny island. However, because the defendant did not show up to court to offer his evidence, Mr Shepheard stressed that “nobody should be declared corrupt”. The development of remote Joe Grant Cay, between Middle and East Caicos, was announced in mid-2008, shortly before the worldwide recession tightened its grip on the Islands. Home to 18th century ruins which afford some of the country’s finest vistas, the 710-acre cay was tipped to provide abundant job opportunities for local residents. However Dr Kinay, who also headed the massive development at Dellis Cay, attracted a wealth of scrutiny during the Commission of Inquiry. It was claimed that 200 acres on Joe Grant Cay, worth an estimated $50m, were purchased for $3.2m in June 2008. This was following the payment of a $500,000 political donation to the PNP just a year earlier.
On June 24, 2010, the development agreement between the Turkish-born developer’s Star Platinum firms and the government was terminated. Since July, 2010, civil recovery lawyers have fought to have land on the tiny cay returned to the Crown along with damages and costs. After initially filing a full defence, the Star Platinum companies then defaulted on court orders. They were asked to provide further and better particulars of their defence, but did not do so in time, and the defence was struck out. As a result, the government opted for trial by evidence or admissions which took place on June 6 at Providenciales Supreme Court. This Tuesday the Attorney General released his judgement in TCI’s first major civil recovery case. He said that there was “no satisfactory explanation” for a $500,000 political donation made by Dr Kinay to former Premier Michael Misick on January 9, 2007. The judge added that there was “a very strong probability that the money was paid as a bribe in order to ensure that the defendant companies obtained the benefit of the proposed development”. He said that the grant of development rights, the sale of the hotel land at a “gross undervalue”,
and the lease of the other land at substantially less than the market value were all made at the instigation of Michael Misick. “The values were approved by Cabinet as the result of the suppression of evidence of what was at the very least a respectable alternative opinion (from the government’s own valuer) as to the true values. “No satisfactory explanation has been put forward for not reporting Mr Hoza’s valuations to Cabinet, or for the payment of $500,000 to Michael Misick.” Mr Shepheard stated: “Not only did the defendants get the development, they got it cheaply. “There is a very strong probability that Michael Misick with the help of McAllister Hanchell secured the grant of these benefits to the defendants as a result of this inducement.” Dr Kinay - bestowed with Belonger status by the former Government – has always denied allegations of corruption. He also previously vowed to recoup all losses incurred by his firms as a result of the civil recovery team’s work. In his statement Mr Shepheard said that because the defendants did not attend court the judgement could not be treated as a conclusive finding that anyone had acted corruptly.
Civil recovery - a big win THE judgment of the Supreme Court of the TCI in the Joe Grant Cay case seems to mark what may well be the beginning of a new beginning, or the real beginning of the end of our long nightmare. It is a big win, and may give us hope for the future. Obviously commentary by a lay person on court judgements is hazardous, so I will tread lightly. The judge goes to great lengths to emphasise that there has been no trial by jury, no oral evidence and no cross examination. This appears to mean that the test of fairness for a criminal trial has not been met. On the other hand citing law and procedure going back to 1892, including the famous Wallersteiner case, the judge decides that there has been a trial of the issues before the court that satisfies the legal standards for a civil claim. And that the court is entitled to make a ‘declaration of facts’ surrounding the Joe Grant Cay deal that results in the recovery of a very valuable asset for the government and people of the TCI. The judgment is written in clear English. Most of the legal reasoning of the judge may strike you as being more effective than a sleeping pill but the general public cannot mistake its meaning, and I urge you to read it so that you can figure out for yourself what those facts are. I have no idea whether this can be treated as a precedent for future cases. The reasoning that underpins the decision is made crystal clear by the judge and it would stand up in the pub, and one must hope in front of the likes of Lord Scarman and Lady Arden.
John Hartley is a retired CEO. He was educated in economics and econometrics at Manchester University and Harvard Business School. He is an occasional contributor at invitational economics seminars at Brazenose College, Oxford.
Economics Column If that reasoning continues to hold water, and is applicable in future cases then we should be optimistic about future recovery. At market values at the time, the Joe Grant Cay recovery amounts to about $164m. This may be a generous figure in today’s market but nevertheless it is a big win. These asset recoveries will not help today’s economy very much. But everybody knows that they are crucial for the future, and for future generations. ‘Economic rents’ are the surpluses that arise when the market value of an asset exceeds the cost of bringing it in to the process of adding value and creating wealth. Corrupt behaviour is generally associated with somebody in power grabbing economic rent. Let us assume that the administrative cost of producing a work permit is $100. But a work permit is an asset worth thousands of dollars. Corrupt officials in some countries can grab that ‘rent’ which by rights belongs to the state or the worker. In future the government will be able to lease recovered land for genuine honest rent, and that will offer a real hope that the country can climb out of the present mess.
“Nobody should be declared corrupt if he has not had the opportunity to defend himself at trial, and that has not happened in this case,” he said. “The decision has been reached without any active participation by the defendants, and without hearing from those alleged to have acted corruptly. “That was because the defendants chose to disregard court orders and to absent themselves from the hearing. “No oral evidence was given, and there was no cross examination. Had this occurred the outcome could have been different. “Conclusions which have been drawn are for the purpose of this case only.” The court has ordered the return of the whole of Joe Grant Cay to the TCI Government, subject only to a charge in favour of Temple Trust which remains on one parcel of the land. The court has also given judgment for damages to be assessed, and has awarded the government costs of the action. The Attorney General added: “This is the first of the major civil claims arising out of the commission’s work to conclude, and we are pleased that the outcome is a successful one for the government and the civil recovery team of EAPD and chambers. “Joe Grant Cay will now
be rightfully returned to the government’s ownership.” In a statement to Bahamas News Weekly, former environment minister McAllister Hanchell said: “I read with interest the government’s press release regarding the court’s decision in the Joe Grant case entitled ‘TCIG successful in recovering Joe Grant land: first judgment in major civil recovery case’. “Neither Michael Misick nor myself are defendants in those proceedings. “No-one gave evidence and the only party represented was the government. “Dr Kinay could not afford to be represented because he was prevented by a previous court order from spending money on legal representation to defend himself. His lawyers had to come off the record. “The publication of the finding that the payment of $500,000 was ‘bribery’ can only be regarded as a deliberate attempt by the government to poison the well of potential jurors so that the SIPT can be in a position to object to trial by jury. “The strategy is clear. Today it may be Mike or me. Tomorrow it can be any citizen of this country. You have been warned.” Investigations continue into dealings related to Salt Cay, Dellis Cay and the Third Turtle which all came under the spotlight during the 2010 corruption probe.
wishes
Congratulations Holly! GRADUATING from the British West Indies Collegiate in 2005, Holly Hamilton immediately began advanced studies at the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, where she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in her childhood passion, Meteorolgy and Atmospheric Science, courtesy of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government. Following her sterling performance at the end of three years, her First Class Honours Degree quickly qualified her for a research assistantship in the Masters Degree Programme at the Pennysylvania State University, USA, where she conducted research on boundary layer winds in tropical cyclones under the supervision of Dr Jenni L Evans. Holly graduated on May 15 with a Master of Science in Meteorology. She hopes to continue her studies uninterrupted. Holly’s family extends warmest congratulations on her achievement and expresses sincere thanks to all those who offered spiritual, moral and financial support during the past years. To God be the glory!
Send your special occasion to: Rebecca Bird, Weekly News, Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, PO Box 52, Providenciales or email to rebecca-bird@hotmail.com. Free of Charge!
Please limit your messages to 150 words.
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NATIONAL
New Governor appointed ECONOMICS and defence expert Damian Roderic Todd is set to become the TCI’s new Governor this September. London-appointed ‘Ric’ Todd will take over from Gordon Wetherell who has held the top spot for nearly three years. The exciting news was announced on Thursday in a press release from the Governor’s Office. It described Mr Todd’s vast experience with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and appointments all over the world. He said: “I am delighted to be appointed Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, which is not only a fascinating new job but also different from postings I have done before. “I am looking forward to getting to know the people of the islands and working with them on all the issues which we face.” Mr Todd studied history at university before joining the FCO
London-appointed ‘Ric’ Todd will take over from Gordon Wetherell in September
defence department in 1980. Over the next 20 years he was posted to South Africa, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Slovakia and Poland. He has also worked in the FCO London in a number of posts including three years on the FCO
board as finance director, along with five years in HM Treasury. His last post was as Her Majesty’s Ambassador in Warsaw from April 2010. Ric Todd is married to Alison and they have three children. At a press conference in March, 62-year-old Mr Wetherell described life at the helm of the TCI Government as “both challenging and enjoyable”. The career diplomat said he had taken the job with the expectation of it only ever being for a three-year period. It’s been a tumultuous term, from controversy surrounding the British takeover to fiery anti-government protests, to devastating hurricanes, surges of violent crime and the impact of financial dire straits. “I did come for three years, time passes and that period will come to an end as all good things do,” Mr Wetherell said. “I have found the position both
RFA Wave Ruler visits Grand Turk THE Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Wave Ruler arrived in the TCI yesterday on a four-day regional engagement visit to Grand Turk. This will be the third time the ship has visited the TCI for regional engagement with the first visit in July 2008 to Providenciales. A significant part of the Royal Navy’s presence is patrolling the North Atlantic and Caribbean. RFA Wave Ruler’s primary role is to provide support to UK Overseas Territories and strengthen the UK Government’s commitment in the region. This role includes providing regional support in the event of natural disasters such as hurricanes. This was evidenced in the ship’s arrival in September 2008 to assist Grand Turk when hurricane Ike caused major damage throughout the island. Teams were deployed on various tasks, which included restoring power to the islands reverse osmosis plant; providing temporary roofing and restoring power to the health clinic as well as distributing bottled water and food. During this visit to Grand Turk Wave Ruler will be conducting humanitarian aid and disaster relief visits to enhance awareness of facilities available on Grand Turk. It will also act as a means to assist RFA Wave Ruler in preparing to provide future humanitarian aid assistance should the island require it. The captain said: “We are delighted to be in Grand Turk. Wave Ruler is in the region to support UK Overseas Territories, provide regional support in the event of natural disasters and contribute to
challenging and enjoyable. There are a number of things that have been achieved during my term, such as the results we have got in public finance. “Also, we have done a lot of work on Crown land and are close to bringing in the new system that will meet the needs of TC Islanders now and future generations too.” Quizzed as to what areas he would like to see addressed before he leaves, the Governor previously cited immigration as a priority. He would not be drawn on his future plans, saying only he was looking at the “next phase” of his life and had already made “personal plans”. Father-of-four Mr Wetherell, married to Rosemary, has represented the UK in countries all over the
world. Prior to taking up position in the Islands he spent three years as High Commissioner to Ghana. He was also non-resident ambassador to Togo, Niger, Burkina Faso and Cote d’Ivoire. Mr Wetherell replaced former Governor Richard Tauwhare who left the Islands in July 2008, also at the end of a three-year term. Controversy surrounded Mr Tauwhare’s exit with many blaming him for lax oversight which allowed corruption by the former administration to run rampant. Mr Tauwhare’s bid for an extra year was refused due, he said at the time, to Britain’s recent upgrading of the position which meant he was competing against “far more experienced” ambassadors.
Man fined for ganja possession By Samantha Dash-Rigby A TWENTY-three-year-old man appeared before Chief Magistrate Joan Joyner and was told to pay a fine for possession of marijuana. Darren Dovie pleaded guilty to the allegation against him and his attorney Brook Capron mitigated on his behalf. The court heard that on June 1 police ranks executed a search warrant on the premises of Dovie’s roommate Natessa
Moore in Blue Hills. During the search they discovered a suitcase which contained a transparent plastic bag of suspected cannabis in the dwelling. The officers then went in search of Dovie and questioned him about the illegal substance and he reportedly admitted: “I use it to relax my head”. Magistrate Joyner fined him $150 with an alternative 30-days prison sentence.
RFA Wave Ruler
law enforcement. “The ship’s company are looking forward to the visit and the opportunity to experience Grand Turk.” RFA Wave Ruler was previously stationed in the Far East, Persian Gulf and the South Atlantic, supporting the Falkland Islands, as well as working in territorial waters around the UK. With an extensive range of disaster relief stores, Wave Ruler is capable of providing food, water and shelter where required. Additionally, the ship and her crew can provide medical and humanitarian aid, search and request facilities utilising the Lynx helicopter onboard, together with technical assistance utilising their training, skills, knowledge and experience. Whilst at sea working in support of local defence and police forces, from a host of Caribbean nations together with the United States Coast Guard, RFA Wave Ruler conducts maritime patrols. In recent years, RFA Wave Ruler has conducted a number of high
profile disaster relief operations in the Caribbean in addition to assisting a number of successful counternarcotics boardings. RFA Wave Ruler is a Fast Fleet Tanker and was built in Govan, Glasgow, entering service in 2002. She has a displacement of 31,500 tonnes, and is 196.5 metres long with a beam of 30.4 metres, a draught of 10 metres and capable of speeds up to 21 knots. She is a modern double hulled tanker and able to operate in all climates including icy waters. The vessel can issue 16,000 cubic metres of diesel and aviation fuel and has a flight deck and hangar to support helicopter operations. The ship has a crew of 74 British Royal Fleet Auxiliary seafarers and 32 Royal Navy personnel including a flight squadron. The Royal Fleet Auxiliary is a flotilla of 12 replenishment and logistic ships with just over 2,000 personnel, operating worldwide in support of the British Armed Services, primarily the Royal Navy.
POLICE REMINDERS WITH CALVIN CHASE DETECTIVE POLICE SERGEANT
Keep it clean
THERE have been a growing number of complaints relating to the improper disposal of garbage, as well as to the growth of illegal dump sites. The police force is also concerned about the amount of litter visible along our road ways. It is important that persons dispose of their litter in the appropriate disposal bins or in garbage bins for pickup. The public is reminded that it is an offence to litter and if convicted the penalty ranges from a fine to incarceration. The citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands are encouraged to report incidents of illegal dumping. Citizens can report these incidents by either contacting the Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force directly or by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 (TIPS).
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics.
Meeting advice Dear Editor, A powerful reason why the team picked by, and following the tune of the Pied Piper, leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to representing our people and their future. If Mr Higgs makes such a powerful argument in the crucial area of Belongership and immigration then should he not have been a part of such a team? I have thought that from day one and even told him as much as soon as I heard about this team. But the British have beaten us all to the punch by selecting ‘our team’ in ‘our best interests’. Or is it in their ‘best interests’? If this team can look at what Mr Higgs has to say and be wowed by his input then should they not all take pause, ask themselves why they were selected, and even consider bowing out if it is the interest of TCI and its future they are about. How many more TCI people have powerful arguments that this team have not thought or dreamt about? And do those being sent really think they can communicate those arguments better than the originators of such powerful arguments? Maybe now they can see why they were chosen. This meeting being hosted by
the British, that I seem to remember reading we are paying for, should have an umbrella agenda that encompasses more than discussing a constitutional document hackled together by a paid consultant that discarded as unimportant the bulk of the input by TCI citizens. Though this is not all-inclusive, we should consider having the following from our side: Finance advocate/representative Political and electoral reform advocate/representative Health and medicine advocate/ representative Policing and law enforcement advocate/representative Education advocate/ representative Governing principles advocate/ representative Belongership and immigration advocate/representative Constitutional reform advocate/ representative Citizens abroad advocate/ representative TCI/UK relationship advocate/ representative Disaster management advocate/ representative How can we even begin to presume that those being sent are qualified to represent us on these and all other matters
when they have expressed little about their position on anything, are vowed in a ‘um-I-neverthought-of-that’ input by others, are the faces of administrations that went so overboard as to now require this need for constitutional reform, are currently part of and committed to a government that represents the interests of those they claim to be going to negotiate with, and have not been chosen by those they claim to be going to represent. In fact they have been chosen by those hosting the negotiations. Do I detect here a conflict of interest, confusion, and the ‘leg’ of one of our TCI boyhood bird traps buckling and trapping the unsuspecting bird inside as it hits the string while following the trail of rice? Is this really the best we can do? If it is then I shudder to think of things like self-determination and independence. Both the British and the TCI team of ‘selected representatives’ should take pause with the express purpose of starting from scratch with this venture which is, without a doubt, a capital idea in principle but absolutely poor and horrendous in execution. Ben Roberts
Reinvest in the country Dear Editor, “A US university is offering a 25 per cent cut in tuition fees to TCI students taking up one of its 125 online degrees. “This June staff from Kaplan University will be jetting down to the Turks and Caicos Islands to introduce their unique higher learning platform.” The above article appearing in all media in the TCI was heralded as a once in a life-time effort, and the reader is so right about once-in-alife-time, because it should not be the case. And why introduce a once in a life-time effort in a growing country like the Turks and Caicos Islands anyway? At all efforts, care must be directed to insure a continuum for the educational system. The educational system, the TCIG, should make every effort to demonstrate that any benefit, real benefit, should truly benefit not only the schools but the students as well as the government. Why have a school that charges a reduced rate for tuition to local residents (distance learners as labelled), and every cent paid goes outside of the country? Why not joint-venture so that some of the funds remain here? Why not hire local instructors, and let some of the tuition funds
remain here? To say “Kaplan University will be jetting down to the Turks and Caicos Islands to introduce their unique higher learning platform”; and I say, jetting back to the USA, shows contempt for locals. Why not a local branch of the university here? After all, the adult learners with families and students who work are among those likely to benefit from the distance learning courses, but will enjoy the wall to wall learning environment. The Community College needs this kind of growth exposure, now! Shame on Kaplan! “Turks and Caicos Islands students will be eligible for a 25 per cent tuition fee reduction within Kaplan’s international offering, and may be eligible for additional benefits through their employer.” Where is the real benefit? Twentyfive per cent off Kaplan’s rates - can the TCCC not better those rates if there was a joint-venture? Why not get the ‘employers’ to fund the construction of a facility and let the whole country benefit? If a person is hungry, teach them how to cook, do not buy food for them, so when hunger comes around everybody know how to cook. Reinvest in the country! Edward E Smith
Lord Ashcroft’s questions are troubling Dear Editor, It would be better for the Turks and Caicos Islands and its people’s future if Lord Michael Ashcroft would ‘take his hands off’ the islands and let these islands go. The questions proposed by the peer at the House of Lords on the TCI are just as concerning to those of us reading them as they are ‘inspired’ in the minds of those who are concerned that the TCI gets a fair shake in the reform process. There is hyper hypocrisy in the questions and the nature of the answers raise further questions as well. One must agree that the definition of lands and businesses that ought to be disclosed should also include
debt, security instruments, loans, liens over lands and resorts in these islands. One must agree that debt is his preferred way of doing business and a much more sustainable way of controlling things, even more than shareholding or equity stakes in businesses. Lord Ashcroft’s bank controlled the Nikki beach resort in this way and according to many realtors since the resort was selectively closed, they refused many offers to buy the resort. In this way Lord Ashcroft’s bank chose to make hundreds of persons redundant when the choice was theirs to leave the resort open and maintaining employment for many
LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS
residents. The choice closing of that resort had a devastating effect on the island’s economy. This also makes the question on what steps are being taken to stimulate the economy rather hollow. Many persons who live here in the islands have experienced first hand the tactics of Ashcroft and his Leeward group. One can understand the urgency for elections by Lords Ashcroft. Because under certain elected governments these kinds of investors get to run the TCI, elections become a farce, and ministers are puppets. We need serious election laws, serious fines for bribery, and strong enforcement of electoral laws.
It is interesting that Ashcroft is raising his head at this time when the TCI Constitution is being negotiated, while there is uncertainty over its outcome. Small wonder it is that Ashcroft is in the House of Lords asking questions about the marketing of TCI’s tourism. One may also say that the response by the Minister of State Lord Howell is impressive and raises the spectre of the rebounding wealth to come to these islands as plans, despite the harsh taxes, are implemented. This $5bn economy is to expand even further with more TC Islanders paying more taxes, to fund more debt created.
Scarier is the question from Ashcroft on the suggestion that a politician be appointed governor of these islands. Imagine someone whose gift is lies, deception, taking of bribes - a politician - to be Governor of these islands. This is something that we have more reason to be concerned about. Imagine, the new constitution would outlaw corruption in stronger terms amongst future ministers but if Ashcroft’s suggestion is taken, he gets his Governor of choice. One may see that urgency for elections, but let this come when reforms are implemented. Celia Williams
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.
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Letters
11
continued
Open letter to Henry Bellingham Dear Minister Bellingham, As you are well aware a team from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has recently concluded its tour of the TCI as part of their attempts to revise the constitution. The culmination of the FCO tour seems to have resulted in an invitation from the FCO. The group invited to the FCO comprises the chair of the consultative forum, a representative from the advisory council, the leaders of the PNP and PDM, the chair of the All-Party Commission on the Constitution and Electoral Reform, a representative of the church, and the youth ambassador. During the recent FCO public meetings in TCI members of the Turks and Caicos Forum had interactions publicly and individually with members of the FCO team at a number of locations and shared our views on constitutional reform. In the aftermath of these meetings, we are extremely disturbed with the process for the selection of the composition of the representative group. There is an inherent bias in the selection of the ‘representative group’ as it is devoid of any public input. We challenge the FCO as to what democratic and or scientific process was employed in the selection and composition of the group? Was this group selected because of the expression of the views of the individual members of the group mirrors the views held by the FCO? Was this group selected because the FCO rationalises that there would be such discord among the group that the FCO would then have a cakewalk of a time in further imposing the FCO’s constitutional views on the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands? Subsequent to the partial suspension of the Turks and Caicos constitution there has not been any group or body which can truly claim to be representative of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands on an
issue as significant as constitutional reform. The foregoing has its basis in the fact that there is not an institution in the TCI which is elected by the people. The advisory council and consultative forum cannot be considered as representative of the people of the TCI as they are comprised of individuals nominated by the Governor without the benefit of public input. Certainly the Governor is not a representative of the people of the TCI, simply by virtue of the process of his appointment to the office. Furthermore the constraints on the terms of reference of the advisory council and consultative forum precludes them in any way from attempting to become representatives of the people of the TCI, as their actions are subject to the discretion of the Governor and, as such, they have not been so disposed and are not representatives of the people. Thus further attempts to impose members of these bodies onto a delegation which is intended to represent the people of the TCI is disingenuous and flawed. The inclusion of current leaders of the political parties is also nonrepresentative of the people. During the various stages of the constitutional reform process, electoral reform and political party lack of accountability has been identified as one of the principal deficiencies in the suspended Turks and Caicos constitution; and thus targeted for reform. How then is the FCO relying on the defective product of TCI electoral process and political party machinery to select representatives of the people? The current political party leaders have not been elected by popular vote and the political parties have not in any way reformed their processes of candidate selection or instituted and reforms within party administration. Hence it is highly hypocritical
for the FCO to extend invitations under the guise of ‘representative of the people’ to this category of individuals. Current political party leaders were elected by a plurality of a small number questionably selected ‘delegates’ (53 at most) to their party convention and thus not representative of the people of the TCI. More importantly we in the general public are grossly unaware of the constitutional views which the Governor’s hand-picked ‘representatives of the people’ hold. If these individuals are truly representative of the people then it stands to reason that there should exist some public access to the views which these individuals hold on constitutional reform and thereafter we the public should have an opportunity to determine whether the individual so selected is suitable to represent our interests.
The matter of constitutional reform is extremely critical to the future of our country and the process should not become the object of those who have not sufficiently studied the impact of, nor recognise the consequences of poor legislation and misguided governance on our future growth and development. In an effort to improve the process and quality of the Constitutional Reform effort we recommend the following: A public selection process which allows all stakeholders to select a delegate of their choice to a National Constitutional Reform Committee; this committee would educate the public on deficiencies in the existing constitution and make recommendations for reform and adoption. Following the public education phase, a convention will convene and the delegates will debate the
recommendations received from the public, the larger delegation will then from among itself select a smaller delegation which will then assemble to present the consensus of the committee to the FCO. The working product from this informed smaller delegation and the FCO will them become the revised constitution for the TCI. Absent public participation in the ‘representative of the people’ selection process for constitutional reform any constitutional document otherwise produced should be subject to popular referendum and ratification by the people of the TCI. We recommend that the current ‘representative of the people’ group be disbanded and a more democratic approach as suggested above be adopted for the selection process. Alpha Gibbs, Secretary of the Turks and Caicos Forum
COMMENTARY
Weiner and grits US news this past week has shifted focus from attorney and former presidential candidate Edward’s indiscretion’s to US Congressman Anthony Weiner. Weiner admittedly has taken numerous photos of himself in various stages of undress and emailed them to several women, one it appears was underage. This occupation of the outspoken Weiner was strange and immoral and he lied about it, trying a rather weak denial before admitting what he did. Despite this he refuses to step aside. As I write this his piers are asking him to resign. He has excused himself to a treatment system. Is this anything but an effort to survive politically? TCI has certainly been exposed to this kind of immorality and worse in our last administration. Without bringing out all the dirty laundry again - we all know about it. There are lessons to be learned for the TCI. As a small country we all know a lot about those who run for office here. Ask yourself who these people are. Are they well established family men and women? Do they value their spouses and their children? It has been proven that leaders
By David Tapfer cannot handle affairs and kinky activities while concentrating on the challenge of their jobs. On another subject we learn that while our Governor was in London someone issued a couple of sand mining contracts. The quarter million dollar sand mining report issued under control of the PNP administration was well covered in the media. Obviously it was guided by a tainted agenda. Evidence of this was a missing environmental impact study. Remember Star Island? Well here we go again. One of the sites to be mined is none other than Juniper Hole. Right smack in the middle of an area of historical and ecological sensitivity. It’s full speed ahead to mine 172,000 cubic yards of course gritty sand.
Reportedly good for construction but too gritty for beach re-nourishment. Juniper Hole does not currently reside on Crown land. Remember it was bought by a corporation represented by Speaker and attorney Clayton Greene who somehow obtained freehold title to Juniper, 2500 other acres, a mile of public road and two thirds of the causeway for a 50 per cent down payment and a $6,000 per acre price. The final payment was due February 11, 2011. Was it paid, a delay approved or is the land deal in default? The country is waiting to hear, Governor. That deal and now sand mining will threaten the Pink Flamingos, Crossing Place Trail, a rare bird and a couple of irreplaceable reefs. Barges cannot remove the sand due to currents and trade winds. A road must be cut across the pristine land so heavy dump trucks can carry the sand over the barely passable causeway and the lightly built roads. Who made the decision to mine Juniper Hole on currently disputed land? DECR is now charged with watching after this operation which needs to be stopped before it begins.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
NATIONAL
Hospital spurns allegations – CEO Roger Cheesman speaks out HOSPITAL chief Roger Cheesman hit out at what he called “absolutely atrocious allegations and lies” this week. In an urgent meeting of the press on Tuesday the Interhealth Canada CEO slammed recent reports of misconduct and corruption. He claimed that the articles in the TCI Journal and the Turks and Caicos Sun were based on “falsehoods” and “innuendos” and were a “great distraction” to hospital staff. “This statement is intended to refute wholly false and in our view malicious allegations which have been made, either explicitly or by implication, in certain organs of the media,” he said. As an international company Interhealth Canada is required to comply with the anti-corruption legislation in force in Canada and other jurisdictions in which it operates. It also has a strict ethics policy which was adopted by its main board in 1998 and with which all its operating subsidiaries and their staff are required to comply. Mr Cheesman stressed that the policy has been followed “to the letter” in all matters pertaining to the
contract with the TCI Government. He described seven major allegations which he completely denied. The first was that the contract under which Interhealth Canada has financed, constructed and is now operating the new hospital facilities on Grand Turk and Providenciales was not won through open and fair competition. “All negotiations were conducted on an arms’ length basis and the agreed terms were approved by the United Kingdom Government,” he said. He also denied that Interhealth Canada is or has been associated with Lord Ashcroft and/or one or more of his companies and that Interhealth Canada had unethical dealings with members of the former TCI Government. “Nobody who has ever held public office in the Turks and Caicos Islands has or ever has had, whether directly or indirectly, any shareholding or other interest or position in or with Interhealth Canada or any of its subsidiaries,” he explained. Mr Cheesman continued to say that it was false that Interhealth Canada has engaged the services
of an adviser to the present TCI Government, namely Keith Bellamy, and that Interhealth Canada entered into an unethical arrangement with Royal Robinson. The sixth allegation was that some or all of the above alleged acts reflect a continuation of the process under which Mr Cheesman was engaged by Interhealth Canada while working for a client authority in the Middle East. During the press conference Mr Cheesman explained that he did work for the General Authority for Healthcare in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and, prior to that, for the Ministry of Health in the United Arab Emirates. In 1998, as part of his duties for the General Authority, he met Interhealth Canada when it was negotiating for and subsequently performing a major contract in Abu Dhabi. Following the expiration of his contract with the General Authority in September 2001, he was invited by the then group chief executive to provide some very short term consultancy services in connection with possible bids for other work in the Gulf. Having done so, he returned
Interhealth Canada CEO Roger Cheesman slammed recent reports of misconduct and corruption
to the United Kingdom where he worked for a number of different and “wholly unconnected” companies until January 2003 when he was invited to join Interhealth Canada to work on the commissioning and operation of a new women’s and children’s hospital in Kuwait. And finally Mr Cheesman refuted the allegation that Interhealth Canada engaged the services of Paul Baker as its public relations consultant while he was providing similar services to
others. Mr Baker, a UK journalist of 25 years experience, explained: “Since arriving in the TCI in March 2010, I have worked on a freelance basis and carried out paid writing and public relations duties for three organisations, namely - InterHealth Canada, Air Turks and Caicos and the TCI Weekly News. “I also continue to write on a freelance basis for a number of publications and websites in the UK and have untaken sports reporting work for PTV on a voluntary basis. “At no time have I ever carried out work for any organisations associated with Lord Michael Ashcroft.” He went on to say that his only involvement with the PDM came as a personal unpaid favour to Doug Parnell, who he knows as their children attend the same school. “This was limited to providing help and advice on press release layout and distribution.” “This in no way compromised any other roles I may have which are clearly not associated with this personal favour.” Mr Cheesman concluded by asking that hospital staff be allowed to carry out their roles without the distraction of having to deal with “unfounded allegations and rumours”.
New shepherd for United Christian Baptist flock “A PASTOR must not try to be a “great” servant of God but the servant of a great God.” These are the words of soon to be inaugurated senior pastor of the United Christian Baptist Church in Blue Hills, Pastor Jean Hubert Midi. Pastor Midi arrived in the TCI from Haiti by invitation and popular demand of the leaders and members of the United Christian Baptist Church to take up the role of shepherd of the congregation. “I am firmly convinced that the pastorate is a noble task. It is not an opportunity to grow rich but a vocation to serve,” the man of God told the Weekly News. He believes that God called him for a specific task for this generation so he responded by giving away his few possessions in Haiti and jetted to the TCI to take up the mantle. However, Pastor Midi did not come empty-handed. He came with a vision to lead a church that “is centered on God’s word, practices prayer, seeks the lost ones for God, turns believers into followers, is dedicated to
freedom in praise and worship, cultivates fellowship and serves the community”. “Shepherding the flock as pastors is an evidence of our love for Christ,” he stated. “When we shepherd others, we model the character of Christ toward others. In Galatians 4.19, Paul talks about Christ being formed in these believers; I believe that he is saying that over time people should really see Christ in the Christians life.” Pastor Midi came from humble beginnings and shared his history with the Weekly News. He was born into a non-Christian family and as a teenager; he attended a small evangelical church in the neighborhood where he learnt the basics about God. His life took a turn in November 1989 after a terrible car accident and he almost lost his life. During his two-month stay in intensive care, he heard a sermon about the death of Christ and how it affects our life here and beyond the grave. “I understood from that sermon that God is freely offering salvation,” Pastor Midi revealed.
It was then that he made the decision to follow Christ and for the first time felt a profound peace. He was no longer afraid of death because he knew that God had accepted him. A few years later, he was baptised. Just a baby in Christ, the young believer was eager to learn more about God’s word in order to continue to grow spiritually and understood God’s will. He taught Sunday school and new believer’s class. He also served as assistant professor in the area of spiritual formation and youth counsellor in his home church and community. A man of God, a civil engineer and a theologian, Pastor Midi brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the United Christian Baptist Church and the TCI Christian community at large. However, he counts himself a humble servant of God and said to other pastors: “I came here not to judge but to work.” Pastor Midi believes that there is a lot to learn from the TCI’s existing ministries and therefore anticipates
Shepherding the flock as pastors is an evidence of our love for Christ,” -– Pastor Jean Hubert Midi
a sustained cooperation among the churches here, in the Caribbean and beyond. He is convinced that the day of his inauguration will “signal a new cooperation among the evangelical churches in Provo and some new practices that are proven to be biblical and effective”. “I would like to be a key person in God’s hands in the rebuilding of lives and I believe the Lord can use me to accomplish His Will to achieve His tasks while reconstructing His
peoples’ lives throughout.” “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few; ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field, then I believe I will certainly learn from you as I hope that you will learn from me.” “May The Lord bless you all,” he ended. Pastor Midi will be formerly accepted as senior pastor at the United Christian Baptist Church in Blue Hills on June 19 at 3pm.
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
13
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
NATIONAL
Kazz Forbes debuts in New York City TURKS and Caicos Islands’ own Kazz Forbes has made his fashion debut in the Big Apple. Mr Forbes, who hails from South Caicos, beat out 365 designers from the Caribbean to showcase his designer collection ‘Le Caicos Chic: A Romance with Decadence’ at the Caribbean International Fashion Week (CIFW). The CIFW is being held in conjunction with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Foundation’s 2011 Caribbean Week of Activities. The event, held on Wednesday, June 8, aimed to empower Caribbean designers, highlighting their contributions to the industry and branding the Caribbean as a global player in culture, tourism and fashion. The CIFW took place at the arena in the heart of Times Square. Mr Forbes said: “The show was an overwhelming success. I could not have asked for anything more. “Being a designer from the Turks and Caicos, given this amazing opportunity to debut in the fashion capital of the world: New York City, it was indeed a major career boost. “Words cannot express my excitement, my incredible delight and the sheer pride I felt when I saw the collection coming together as a whole; and more so when worn by the models; then presented to a capacity crowd that gave me a standing ovation.” ‘Le Caicos Chic: A romance with Decadence’ is an all black
An elated Kazz Forbes struts down the runway
collection. Mr Forbes said he wanted the collection to be edgy, sexy and bold, but very classy and elegant, as it is in keeping with the aesthetics of his Saint George Fashion House (SGFH) brand. “Black is a strong, solid formidable choice, one that commands attention and revere. “Besides, every lady needs a few black dresses and separates; and
An attention grabbing design from the collection
One of the designer’s more casual outfits
every man must have the essential black ensembles in his closet. “Also, black to me represents a darker vision of sexy, edge and bold,” added Kazz. Saint George Fashion House is a men and ladies high-end fashion line. With this collection under his belt, Mr Forbes endeavors to establish a Turks and Caicos slands first - a designer clothing
brand from the TCI for international fashion conscious clientele. The other nine designers from Caribbean presenting along with Forbes included Queen Esther of Kuumba Designs (St Lucia), Jewel Shannon (Barbados), Theodore Elyett (Bahamas), Charles Dieujuste (Haiti), Lucia Rodrigues (Dominican Republic), Rebecca Beck (Curacao), Simon Duncan (Trinidad), Ron and Ron (Haiti) and Cassandra Mottley-
Sheliel (Barbados). Present at Kazz’s showcase were principals from the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board, Director of Tourism Ralph Higgs, regional marketing manager Pamela Ewing, and public relations officer Kimo Tynes. Also in attendance were Miss TCI Earth 2008 Alison Capron, Nikheel Advani, COO of Grace Bay Resorts, and major sponsor Ken Gallagher.
DR Mary Jo Villar
The presentation took place at the Windsong Resort in Grace Bay in front of an intrigued and enthralled audience
mammography, magnetic resonance imaging and PEM (positive emission mammography). A portion of her presentation was dedicated to the various treatments available for breast cancer: surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and radiation therapy. The audience was informed on how treatment options differ according to the staging of your tumour. ‘Staging’ which takes into consideration the size of the tumour, its nodal status as well as distant
metastasis. At the end of the presentation Dr Villa stressed that “early detection is key” and that “the advances in screening techniques, treatment options and an overall better understanding of who is at a higher risk, means that we are able to prevent more women from dying”. She said: “I’ve been to the Turks and Caicos several times and I find the community there so welcoming and grateful. “There is a great need to educate
Fighting breast cancer By Kin-Z Francis
DR MARY Jo Villar an employee of Baptist Health South Florida who specialises in haematology, oncology and radiation, took time off from her vacation to give a presentation to the public on the prevention and treatment of female cancers. The presentation took place at the Windsong Resort in Grace Bay in front of an intrigued and enthralled audience. Dr Villa wanted to present in the islands because she “loves the people of the Turks and Caicos” and wanted to give back to the community. She spoke of the increasing number of breast cancer detections over the past 20 years and the rates of incidence according to the different ethnic groups. African-American, white and Hawaiian women have the highest rates, whilst native-American and Oriental have the lowest rates of incidence.
Though the rate of incidence has risen, there has been a decline in the reported number of fatalities, due mainly to increased public awareness, yearly mammograms and monthly self-breast exams, all of which contribute to early detection; an effective tool in combating the disease. Dr Villar also made mention of several risk factors associated with the disease: estrogen replacement, family history; if any female member of your family was diagnosed with breast cancer at an early age and exposure of chest wall to radiation at an early age. Other risks included in later parts of her presentation included excessive alcohol, a high fat diet, low levels of vitamin D and a prior history of breast cancer which places you at three to four times a higher risk of a second breast cancer. Members of the audience were introduced to improved screening techniques such as digital
the women living there on the importance of mammograms, the available options and the idea that if you catch breast cancer early, it’s curable. “The women at our lecture were so receptive, willing to learn and appreciative that it was an honour to present to them.” The presentation was organised by Baptist Health South Florida International Services and Dr Jamillah Berry of the Ministry of Health.
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
15
NATIONAL
An upbeat zumba performance
Audience joins in with the zumba
Heart Foundation raises cash
Saturday July 2nd, 2011
By Kin-Z Francis
Karen Malcolm receives cheque on behalf of heart foundation
handing out prizes, as well as collecting the cheque on behalf of the foundation. By the end of the night, $1000 had been raised for the Heart Foundation. Members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Heart Foundation described the event as a “huge success” and as a “fantastic night”. Thanks are extended to the sponsors Aqua for hosting, Lime and Digicel for donating some fantastic prizes, Karen Malcolm and the TCI Heart Foundation.
All workshops will include acting games, speaking and diction skills, staging and presentation. The week will culminate in a performance of Romeo and Juliet, a Renaissance dance, sword fighting skills and mask making. Interested youngsters can sign up with Roxann Wake-Forbes at roxann@tciyouthcentre.tc or call 331-9602. Class size is limited to 25. The workshops are sponsored by the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre, American Airlines and Turks and Caicos Friends of the Arts Foundation.
FOOD & DRINKS • RAFFLE • KIDS GAMES
DOG
Shakespeare summer workshops THE EDWARD C Gartland Youth Centre is offering a week of Shakespeare summer workshops from August 1 to 6. The primary goal is to introduce and explore several contrasting works of Shakespeare with interested youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands from ages 12 to 18. Instructors Scott Cannon and Susan Cade will examine Shakespeare’s diction and meter, the meaning of his Elizabethan phrases and the presentation of his immortal lines. Several shortened plays will be read, acted, directed and staged with minimal props.
Turtle Cove Marina From 3pm to 7pm SHOW
ARTS
&
CRAFTS FOOD & DRINKS • RAFFLE • KIDS GAMES
A FUNDRAISING event for the Turks and Caicos Islands Heart Foundation was held at the Aqua Bar and Restaurant. The event was chaired by Patrick Riel, the front man in the developing of the ambulance service for the Ministry of Health and Health Services; who also spoke a little about heart health. The mood for the night was set by David Bowen and the TUCA drummers who opened the event with an upbeat drumming performance. Another great performance of the evening was a Zumba routine executed by Kym Herron-Scott, Shara Bowen and David Bowen, that got the crowd up and dancing for three sets. David Bowen has recently become qualified as a Zumba instructor and conducts class on Monday nights at 6pm. Call 441-8686 or email theathleticclub@ tciway.tc for details. The Heart Foundation’s own Karen Malcolm also served as commentator for part of the night,
2011 TCSPCA ANNUAL DOG SHOW DOG
SHOW
ARTS
&
CRAFTS
All dogs must be on a leash
For further information call 231 3052 or 941 8846
Lifestyle...
16
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
fitness Tip
An active versus a lazy summer break EXAMS are going full throttle at the moment, but soon they will be over and kids can relax and take a break. A long summer break lies ahead and making plans is an inevitable process for them. Some plans are more exciting than others. Some kids will have the opportunity to travel and some won’t. The ones who will travel will probably have an active vacation; on the other hand it’s our responsibility to ensure that kids who will spend most of the summer holiday on island feel as fortunate.
Strawberrycoconut daiquiri
YOU’LL feel like you’re on a tropical getaway with this refreshing strawberry-coconut cocktail. Easy to make! Ingredients • 2 1/2 cups chopped fresh or frozen (not thawed) strawberries, (about 12 ounces) • 3 tablespoons sugar • 2 tablespoons lime juice • 3 cups ice cubes Method • Combine strawberries, sugar and lime juice together in a blender. Blend until smooth. Add ice cubes and blend until frothy. Transfer mixture to a pitcher and serve. Nutrition 112 calories 0g fat (0g sat, 0g mono) 0mg cholesterol 12g carbohydrates 0g protein 1g fiber 3mg sodium 113mg potassium
‘Our’ refers to parents, youth organisations, fitness/sports professionals or in short our community. The first impulse of kids after school has finished is usually to reduce the number of daily activities and to lay about, using the free time to watch TV, surf the net or play video games. Snacking usually accompanies this laid back approach to summer. An overnight transition from a fairly active day, with healthy and monitored eating to a ‘lie around’ kind of day with lots of munching will have a negative impact on the kids’ health and mood. Needless to say, the more they do it the more they will get used to this inactive method of getting through summer. So what can we do to avoid this transformation and keep their energy going? It all starts with the parents. Parents work countless hours whether at work or running the household and when summer comes around they are faced with entertaining their children as well. Ouch! It might be a bit overwhelming but don’t forget that some things can wait, the kids are our priority. Parents set an example! Engage them in activities that demand energy from them. Don’t rely completely on the nanny this
summer. Bond with your kids, play together. NO EXCUSES! You may not be able to keep this up all summer as your energy has to be split into different areas, so spend some time looking into community activities available for the summer. Options may be limited depending on your budget, so a cheaper alternative would be organising play dates - let your kids interact with other kids. This gives them a chance to grow and develop their personalities. For older kids, peers are the main sphere of influence. Older kids are more likely to refer to their friends and ‘school culture’ rather than their parents when it comes to lifestyle choices. This is when school programmes can lend a hand. Does the school offer PE classes or an after school group that focuses on instilling healthy habits in the students? If none of these programmes are present in their school, the local youth centre is one possible place. The youth centre offers various activities, all of which help educate teens to become healthier and stronger. So if you are ready to help your kids fight the summer fatigue, you can contact the youth centre or you can contact me at ancafitness@live. com and I can recommend some progammes. Our job is to encourage education
in a healthy way. This generation of children has a lot of information to process in a short period of time - a lot more than we ever had - and we can help them by providing a stress free
YOUR DIET
environment. They need ‘play time’ and time to relax in order to absorb more and more information. So make this summer an active, playful and enjoyable one!
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.
Question 1:
What do low fat and low sodium mean on food labels? Almost all packaged foods found in the supermarket, with the exception of some meats, have a ‘Nutrition Facts’ label. This label is usually on the back or the sides of the packages and it tells the amount of nutrients the food contains for each serving. These labels are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Listed below are definitions for terms you may see very often: Low fat – three grams fat or less per serving Fat free – less than ½ gram fat per serving Low sodium – less than 140 milligrams sodium per serving Low calorie – less than 40 calories per serving Calorie free – less than five calories per serving Low cholesterol – less than 20 milligrams cholesterol and two grams saturated fat
Question 2:
How can I still eat the foods I know and love while I am trying to lose weight? This is a great question because it speaks to so many other people just like you. As a matter of fact, when I met up with my workout buddies on Monday all I said was: “I went to Blue Hills this past weekend.” Anyone who has lived on Providenciales for any length of time knows that you can find some of the best ‘island food’ along the beach in Blue Hills, especially on a Saturday morning. Things such as chicken souse and jonny cake, potato bread and stew conch will always be on the menu to tantalise your taste buds. Now that it’s crab season, there’s crab and rice loaded with pigtail as well. While these foods may win medals for taste, it’s no secret that many of our foods and our cooking methods are high in calories, saturated fats and sodium. Therefore, it is important that we learn some coping strategies if we want to enjoy foods while maintaining our waistlines. Moderation - weight lost is not achieved through self-deprivation which only leads to over indulgence but through the art of moderation. Eat two or three conch fritters instead of eight or nine. Treat yourself - make these foods a treat and not an everyday affair. Proper portions - the standard serving takeaway plate can be split between two or three people instead of one person. Save up on calories - eat a variety of healthy foods before and after you have a food that is not as healthy; drink water with your meal instead of a regular soft drink. Get moving - find an activity you like that will help you burn off the excess calories. Remember: the keys to success are balance, moderation and variety.
ACCU Medical Nutrition is based in Graceway IGA Plaza, Providenciales. Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.
June 18 - 24, 2011
Lifestyle... How does your garden grow
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
GARDENING
Gumbo-limbo BURSERA Simaruba, commonly known as the Gumbo-limbo, is a tree species in the family Burseraceae. The native Gumbo-limbo is a tropical tree that is native to the southeastern United States through the West Indies, Mexico and Central America. It adapts to a variety of habitats, from dry to moist and is fairly salt tolerant. It is also considered one of the most wind tolerant trees, so it is recommended as a good hurricane resistant species. Gumbo-limbo is planted for shade and ornamental use on backyard patios, or along streets and highways. It readily sprouts from branches stuck into the ground and is sometimes used to plant natural, living fences. The gummy, turpentine-scented resin has been used in the West Indies for making glue, varnish, liniments and as a coating for canoes. The aromatic sap is also used as a treatment for gout, whilst the leaves are brewed into a medicinal tea. The light, soft, spongy wood is used for fence posts that have been known to take root in the ground and grow! Other small wood products such as matchsticks, toothpicks, charcoal, boxes, crates, and interior trim have also been made from the Gumbolimbo. Some birds, including mockingbirds and vireos, regularly consume the deep red fruits of the Gumbo-limbo during the summer and fall months. The Gumbo-limbo is a medium sized fast growing tree that can attain a height of 20-50ft. It has pinnately compound (featherlike) leaves and attractive reddish bark that peels away in thin flakes to reveal a smooth and sinuous gray under-bark. The tree’s massive trunk is 2-3ft in diameter and supports huge irregular branches and a spreading, rounded crown. A semi-deciduous Gumbo-limbo loses all its leaves in early spring, just before the new leaves appear. Propagation: A green Gumbolimbo branch simply stuck into the moist ground will take root and grow rapidly. It also is easy to propagate from seed. Gumbo-limbo trees grow in the same area as the Poisonwood trees. If you have touched the Black Poisonwood, the first thing to do is to find a Gumbo-limbo tree. As soon as possible you wash the area very well with any oil dissolving substance; water and regular soap
17
MONEY TIP
With Mary Hamilton of Meridian Trust
Dealing with debt 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
alone will not remove all of it. You cut a piece of the Gumbolimbo bark and wipe the inside on the affected area. Hang on to this bark and reapply several times after. You can also boil the bark, add
powdered vitamin C to the boiled water to make a paste that you can apply on the burn. However in some extreme cases of burn, the power of the Gumbolimbo may be limited.
REPLACE DISPOSABLES
WHEREVER possible, replace disposable products with reusable ones (ie. razors, food storage, batteries, ink cartridges, coffee filters, furnace or air conditioner filters).
IF YOU are struggling with debt or just a general lack of money, you may be feeling lonely and isolated and possibly even depressed. I guarantee you are not alone. Many of us are too proud to admit it when we are struggling financially, but it can be a big relief to share your concerns with friends and family and learn that you are not alone in facing cash flow challenges. Action is often the best cure for worries. One of my favourite sayings is: “If you want to see different results you need to do things differently.” Doing something, anything, to tackle your worries is better than brooding on them. Have you tried the following? Go for a long walk and meditate on creative ways to solve your problems. JK Rowling, billionaire author of the Harry Potter series of books, wrote the manuscript in a busy café as she could not afford to heat her flat. A walk in the early morning or evening can help to clear the mind and see solutions that were previously hidden. Have you talked to your bank about refinancing, or a debt repayment holiday? Might they let you pay interest only on a mortgage for a few months? If you don’t ask, you don’t get! If there is any equity (a surplus of value over debt) in your property can you fire-sale it to convert it into the cash you urgently need? Although it is not ideal to sell in a depressed market, sometimes life is not ideal. Do you really need the property carrying the debt, or can you accept life without it and allow it to be repossessed? If you have no way of paying back the debt secured on a piece of property, you need to face the facts. Life will go on. Reconsider your power consumption. We all know it can save money but how many of us actually turn off lights when we leave a room and unplug electronic equipment at night? Have you considered rising with the sun and going to bed soon after it sets? Open the blinds and curtains during the day. Natural sunlight is free. Do you make unnecessary trips in your vehicle? Gas inflation is hitting vehicle owners where it hurts – in the wallet! Everyone is concerned about the current price of gas per gallon. Do not be afraid to car share where possible. Don’t have a car? Ask for a ride with a friend or neighbour and repay them in kind with a few hours of babysitting, gardening or cleaning services later that week. Count your blessings. When you feel that money problems are taking all the enjoyment out of life, try to count your blessings such as good health, your family and the natural beauty that surrounds you in TCI. It may not solve your money problems but it may give you the peace of mind you need to put them in perspective. And always remember, when the going gets tough, keep going.
18
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Pastor Lewis freed of sex charges in Jamaica SAVANNA - L A - M AR , Westmoreland — Tears of joy streamed down the cheeks of United States-based clergyman Pastor Paul Lewis in the Westmoreland Circuit Court yesterday — relieved that he was freed of sex charges involving two teenage girls. After approximately two hours of deliberation, the seven-member panel of jurors returned with the not guilty verdict minutes to 3:00 pm. The verdict was greeted
with shouts of joy from Lewis’s supporters — who massed outside the courtroom where the in-camera trial took place — and murmurs of displeasure by others, including a policewoman who was heard asking her colleagues “What is the use of DNA then?” Lewis’s acquittal came two years after he was charged with the carnal abuse of a 15-year-old Westmoreland girl and the indecent assault of her
WANTED LABOURER To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour
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14-year-old friend in his room at a Negril hotel. He was granted bail in the sum of $300,000, which was revoked earlier this month. The evangelist had visited the island for a one-week crusade hosted by Fellowship Church of God in Little London. He was nabbed by the police as he stepped out of a motor vehicle outside a jam-packed tent, shocking hundreds of congregants awaiting his appearance. During the preliminary enquiry last October, one of the complainants changed her statement and the police alleged that Lewis, through an intermediary, offered her money. Lewis was subsequently charged with perverting the course of justice shortly before his appearance in court. He was scheduled to return to the Savanna-laMar Resident Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday when the matter was scheduled for
EBONY BEAUTY SALON Is seeking
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mention. On Monday, after his acquittal of the sex charges, the embattled pastor offered praises to God. “God is good. God is good. The Lord always told me He will never let me down, and he has never let me down. Thank God it is over,” he told the Observer, moments before he was whisked away from the courthouse in a waiting sport utility vehicle. “He is very happy, very relieved because these were allegations which were hanging over his head for quite some time and he has... the Lord’s work to return to. And I believe he can now move (on) and has started to move in that direction,” his attorney Keith Bishop told journalists. Bishop also expressed optimism that his client will also be found not guilty of perverting the course of justice. “We think we will prevail as well when that time comes,” an elated Bishop said. “We hope, in a positive way, that the authorities might be thinking to withdraw those matters before the court,” he added. Bishop, who from the outset said he knew that he had a strong case, told journalists that his team did what was required in law to impress the jurors. He added that there were several irregularities presented by the Crown. “As we indicated earlier, there were plenty of inconsistencies and people flip-flopping,” he said. The case was presided over by Justice Leighton Pusey. (Jamaicaobserver.com)
June 18 - 24, 2011
Bahamas: 44% murders linked to organised crime THE GOVERNMENT of the Bahamas said that 44 percent of murders committed in the Caribbean country so far in 2011 were related to organized crime. Security Minister Orville “Tommy” Turnquest told parliament that 25 of the 57 murders that had taken place in the Bahamas by June 8 were connected to drug trafficking and other illegal businesses. He said that police believed another 16 of the deaths may be linked to the drug trade. «There is no question
that there is a strong link between the drug trade and serious crime in our country,» Turnquest said. «What we are seeing today is the result of the drug trade that sadly gripped our country a generation ago.» The minister revealed figures on drug confiscations in recent years, which showed that marijuana seizures rose sigificantly in 2010, up to 45,000 lb from 29,000 lb the previous year. However, seizures of cocaine fell from 9,000 lb in 2009 to 495 lb in 2010.
Ben and Catherine Mullany were on the last day of their Caribbean honeymoon when they were shot.
Antigua’s murders: British couple both shot in head A HONEYMOON couple murdered in Antigua both died from gunshot wounds to the head, a trial on the island has heard. Catherine and Ben Mullany, both 31, from Pontardawe, Swansea, were attacked in the Caribbean in July 2008. Doctor Derek James, senior forensic pathology lecturer at Cardiff University, gave evidence that both were shot in the back of their heads. Avie Howell, 20, and Kaniel Martin, 23, deny the murders, and the murder of a local shopkeeper. The trial continues. The couple were on the last
day of their honeymoon when they were shot. Mrs Mullany, a doctor, died at the scene while her husband, who was a physiotherapy student, was flown back to Britain for treatment but was pronounced dead a week later at Morriston Hospital in Swansea. The court heard Dr James conducted post mortem examinations on the couple on 5 August, 2008. A security guard who was on duty at the Cocos Hotel and Resort has previously told the trial it is possible he may have napped on shift on the night the Mullanys were killed. (BBC)
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June 18 - 24, 2011
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
19
Golding role in ‘Dudus’ saga ‘inappropriate’ JAMAICAN Prime Minister Bruce Golding, Attorney General and Justice Minister Senator Dorothy Lightbourne and former Police Commissioner Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin have all come in for harsh criticism in the much-anticipated report of the J$78 million Dudus/Manatt Commission of Enquiry tabled in Parliament earlier this week. The 58-page report submitted by commissioners Queen’s Counsel Emil George, former permanent secretary in the Ministry of Labour, Anthony Irons, and Queen’s Counsel Donald Scharschmidt, though couched in diplomatic language, left no doubt as to where they believed matters went wrong, starting with the Jamaica Labour Party contracting United States law firm Manatt, Phelps and Phillips to lobby the Obama administration over the extradition request for former Tivoli Gardens don Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke. They went further to suggest that the post now held by Lightbourne is due for review and that Rear Admiral Lewin jumped the gun in acting on information he received about the pending extradition request. The commission, appointed by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen in October last year, began its hearings on January 17 this year to probe the Government’s handling of the extradition request. “On the evidence before us we conclude that the Jamaica Labour Party instructed Manatt, Phelps and Phillips,” said the commissioners. “Diplomatic matters of this sort should be dealt with by our foreign service, accountable to Parliament through the minister of foreign affairs and
Bruce Golding has been criticised for his handling of the Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke matter.
not by a political party,” the report read. “It was imprudent for the prime minister to have instructed his party to deal with diplomatic matters involving US/Jamaica relations when the party is obviously not accountable to Parliament, unlike the minister of foreign affairs. “It was also imprudent for any such initiative not have been led and managed by our ambassador in Washington. Surely, that would have been the appropriate diplomatic channel, accountable through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Parliament,” the commissioners added. According to the trio of commissioners, who had been accused of being less than authoritative over the course of the enquiry which ended on March 20, “the prime minister’s involvement with Coke’s extradition was inappropriate”. “He should have distanced himself completely from the matter. His failure to do this led to the unfortunate suspicion that he was protecting an alleged narcotics dealer and drug smuggler,” they said.
“The Jamaica Labour Party should not have been involved to the extent it was. There may have been inappropriate comingling. We feel it was an unfortunate mistake because it fuelled suggestions that this move was made to protect Mr. Coke because he was an important man to the JLP,” the report continued. In addressing the question of whether the justice minister should have promptly signed the documents giving authority to proceed with the extradition, the commissioners said this would “have prevented the criticism that the minister was deliberately delaying the extradition process for Coke for political reasons, and would have removed some of the causes of friction between Kingston and Washington. “It seems to us that although late in signing the authority to proceed, the minister acted reasonably in signing it when she did,” the commissioners said, noting that her “recollection of those events, however, was faulty”. The commissioners said while they “found no evidence of misconduct” on the part of the persons brought before it as it related to the handling of the request for Coke, “mistakes and errors of judgement were made”, and suggested critical changes which could potentially marginalise Lightbourne, who was repeatedly labelled “incompetent” by the Opposition People’s National Party during and enquiry. “We suggest that the posts of minister of justice and attorney general should be split. The attorney general need not be a member of either House. We have considered the quality and amount of work done by the Attorney General’s Department
and the quality and volume of work done by the justice
ministry and we recommend that these departments be
headed by two different people,” the report said.
Royal West Indies Resort
VACANCIES ROYAL WEST INDIES RESORT, is looking for motivated proactive individuals to join its ‘Resort Team’ and contribute to this growing Condominium Resort. Candidates MUST want to actively participate in creating an excellent and professional guest experience.
• POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT • GENERAL MAINTENANCE • GARDENER Requirements: • MUST speak English and the ability to write and read English • Ability to maintain pools and hot tub chemicals and maintenance issues related to same • Some knowledge of water sports equipment • Able to swim. • Fit and able for heavy lifting • Personality suited for the hotel industry • Must be customer friendly • Willing to work split shifts, holidays and weekends. • Knowledge of waste water treatment plants • Knowledge of Commercial Laundry Equipment including propane systems • Air Conditioning systems, Fire Alarm systems, Domestic Water systems including Water Heaters • Irrigation systems Wages $6.50/hour
RWI Management Ltd. A small but growing Turks and Caicos Islands management company is seeking a qualified and experienced
Managing Director To head corporate and client level operations. The successful candidate must possess:
Windsong Resort Wine Specialist and Event Coordinator Windsong Resort located on Grace Bay seeking an individual with university education and fluent in English, Spanish and French, both written and verbal, and with an excellent knowledge of wine to procure and maintain wine portfolio/sales as well as general marketing and event coordination for the resort and assisting generally as required. This is a seasonal position requiring the successful candidate to also be eligible for separate employment in France for approximately 5-6 months each year procuring and maintaining relationships with wine producers in France and Spain salary starting at $545 per week or commensurate with experience
Reply to: c/o P.O. Box 209, Chancery Court, Providenciales or Labour Board, Providenciales 7158
• Bsc. In Hotel and Food Administration • Masters in Business Administration • Minimum five years directly relevant post qualification work experience at directorial and regional level. • Proven track record in growing business and contract negotiation. Will be able to produce mission critical reporting and provide solutions and decision making based on proper analysis and understanding. • Computer literate with modern property management systems, productivity software and internet distributed marketing and reservations systems. Package is based on qualification and experience, $70,000 to $80,000 per annum. The suitable candidate will be able to lead all aspects of hospitality and corporate operations. All resumes and applications must be forwarded to:
Royal West Indies Resort P.O. Box 482, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands You may also fax to: (649)946-5008
7181
20
Entertainment
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
Mavado charged with assault POPULAR Jamaican dancehall entertainer David Brooks, better known as ‹Mavado›, was this week charged with assault following an incident at a nightclub in New Kingston. «The entertainer has been charged following an altercation between members of his entourage and a member of the security forces,» Detective Sergeant Radcliffe Levy,
the officer in charge of crime at the Half-Way-Tree Police Station told the Observer. Details surrounding the incident were not clear up to Monday, but allegations are that an altercation developed between a security officer and a member of the entertainer’s team who allegedly refused to be searched. A scuffle allegedly developed and a member of the
entertainer’s team was shot and injured. He was admitted to hospital in serious condition. The police, following the incident, named Brooks and another popular entertainer ‘Bounty Killer’, who was also at the club, as persons of interest and ordered them to turn themselves over to the Half-Way-Tree police. Police said the two men, hours
later, turned up at the station where Bounty Killer, whose real name is Rodney Pryce, was questioned and released. Brooks was, however, charged with assault occasioning bodily harm and was offered station bail in the sum of $30,000. He is scheduled to appear before the Half-Way-Tree Resident Magistrate’s Court to answer the charge on June 23.
Mavado was charged with assault
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
Entertainment
INSTANT CASH! NOBODY PAYS MORE!! GURANTEED
$100 Extra for 30 Grams or More or UNDER 30g FREE $5 Phone Card
Portman welcomes a boy NATALIE PORTMAN, who won a best-actress Oscar this year for playing a demented ballerina in Black Swan, has given birth to her first child, a boy, People magazine reported. This is the first child for Portman,
30, and fiancé Benjamin Millepied, 33, who met and began dating while shooting Swan, which Millepied choreographed. Portman, who has always kept mum about her personal
life, announced her pregnancy in December and added, for good measure, that she was engaged to Millepied — a French dancer with the New York City Ballet— as well. (USATODAY)
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June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
SATURDAY JUNE 25TH @ TURTLE COVE MARINA
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for more information e-mail marketing@islandcom.tc or call 431-0000
23
24
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
We are now
CIBC FirstCaribbean CIBC FirstCaribbean represents the proud heritage and uniqueness of the Caribbean, backed by the financial strength of CIBC, the world’s fourth strongest* bank.
The same bank. The same people. Stronger than ever.
For more information visit www.cibcfcib.com *As ranked by Bloomberg Markets Magazine, 2011. The CIBC logo is a registered trademark of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, used by FirstCaribbean International Bank under license.
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
25
SHINGLES
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Opening Hours Mon – Sat: 8am – 8pm Sun: 8:30am - 2pm
26
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
World News Report: World changes eating habits as food prices soar PEOPLE AROUND the world are changing their diets because of soaring food prices, according to a new study. The majority of people in most countries surveyed by international aid agency Oxfam said they›re no longer eating the same kind of food as they did two years ago, with 39 percent globally blaming rising food costs and another 33 percent citing health reasons. The poll also shows the effects of globalisation on the world diet, with both pasta and pizza ranked among the top three favourite foods in many countries. The United States, Russia and India were among the 17 countries surveyed. «Our diets are changing fast and for too many people it is a change for the worst,» said Jeremy Hobbs, Executive Director of Oxfam. «Huge numbers of people, especially in the world›s poorest countries, are cutting back on the quantity or quality of the food they eat because of rising food prices.» High and volatile food prices represent an increasingly large and unpredictable proportion of household income in developing countries, according to Abolreza Abbassian, an economist for the U.N.›s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). «People in poorer countries are already eating once a day, so when prices go up, people spend all their income on food,» Abbassian told CNN. «They can›t have more income, so the only thing they can do is eat less or more inferior food.» Seventy-six percent of respondents in Kenya told Oxfam that they›ve changed their diets, with 79 percent blaming food prices. In Mexico, 65 percent of respondents changed diets, with more than half blaming prices as well. While food costs have hit the developing world the hardest, the West is not immune to the effects of rising prices. In the United States, 55 percent of respondents said they
The International Monetary Fund is now considering just two contenders, French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde and Mexican Central Bank chief Agustin Carstens.
Protests that erupted in December in Tunisia over food prices and unemployment eventually spread around North Africa
no longer eat the same kinds of food they did two years ago, and 31 percent attribute the change to food prices. After 30 years of relatively constant prices, the cost of food staples like grains, meats and sugar soared in mid-2008, with experts blaming everything from extreme weather to biofuel production and shortsighted economic policies. In February of this year, the U.N. Food Price Index -- a number representing the average prices of five main foods including meat, dairy and cereals -- hit an all-time high of 238, nearly 20 percent higher than during the 2008 food crisis. Another 44 million people worldwide were driven into poverty due to high food prices since June 2010 -- in addition to the 1.2 billion people already living below the poverty line of $1.25 a day, according to the World Bank. Abbassian said the FAO doesn›t expect much in the way of price relief anytime soon. «Between now and 2020, the likelihood of prices in real terms declining is very, very little» due to the lack of fundamental changes in the global agricultural market, said Abbassian. Part of the reason for this, said
Abbassian, is the five billion people in the world who aren›t below the poverty line. «Prices today, as high as they may seem, may not seem high to people in emerging economies, so they carry on buying, and you›re not getting price rationing,» said Abbassian, referring to the point where food becomes so expensive that people stop buying it. «The danger is that these people keep paying regardless of the price, and they are increasing the price of the food for people who can›t afford it even more.» According to Abbassian, since the free market food system cannot look after the world›s poorest people, one solution would provide targeted aid to subsidise food prices for those under the poverty line. The agricultural ministers of the G-20 countries are due to meet in Paris next week to discuss food prices -- and while previous meetings have yielded little, Abbassian expressed optimism that this time would be different. G-20 countries have «realised that food prices are a problem, and that this problem cannot be solved by pledges and empty promises,» said Abbassian. «And that is quite a striking difference from the past.» (CNN)
Official: Mexican cartels use money, sex to bribe U.S. border agents MEXICAN DRUG cartels have used cash and sexual favors as tools to corrupt U.S. border and customs agents, an inspector general investigation has found. In exchange, agents allow contraband or unauthorized immigrants through inspection lanes, protect or escort traffickers or leak sensitive information, said Charles Edwards, acting inspector general of the Department of Homeland Security. Testifying before a Senate
subcommittee, Edwards cited the Zetas drug cartel as one of the leaders «involved increasingly in systematic corruption.» He did not elaborate on how noncash methods of corruption, like sexual favors, have been used to corrupt agents. Since October 2004, 127 Customs and Border Protection employees have been arrested or indicted for acts of corruption, said agency Commissioner Alan Bersin, speaking at the same hearing of the Senate
Subcommittee on Disaster Recovery and Intergovernmental Affairs. Mexican President Felipe Calderon›s offensive against the drug cartels, combined with a surge in the hiring of border agents in recent years, have multiplied the risks of corruption, Bersin said. Today, the Border Patrol counts more than 20,700 agents, more than double its size in 2004. Bersin implied that the rapid hiring spree may have come at the cost of hiring less qualified agents.
IMF to consider Lagarde, Carstens for top job THE INTERNATIONAL Monetary Fund whittled the candidate pool for its top post Monday, saying it would consider just two contenders, French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde and Mexican Central Bank chief Agustin Carstens. «The Executive Board will meet with the candidates in Washington, D.C., and, thereafter, meet to discuss the strengths of the candidates and make a selection,» the IMF said in a statement, which made no mention of other candidates. Bank of Israel governor Stanley Fischer, 67, had thrown his hat in the ring, but IMF requirements bar the appointment of any managing director 65 years old or older. The head of Kazakhstan›s central bank, Grigory Marchenko, told CNN
he was withdrawing his bid to head the group Friday, the last day to submit nominations for the position. The post of IMF chief has historically been reserved for a Western European candidate. Representatives of various developing countries have been trying to break that tradition in the wake of the resignation of Dominique Strauss-Kahn, who is facing charges related to the alleged sexual assault of a hotel maid in New York. Lagarde, 55, would be the first woman to run the IMF since the global financial institution was established in 1945 and is considered by many as the front-runner in the race. The fund is aiming to complete its selection process for Strauss-Kahn›s successor by June 30. (CNN)
South Sudan rebel militia raid kills 29, says army JUBA: A rebel militia killed 29 people including police and civilians in a south Sudan cattle raid, the southern army said on Tuesday, adding to the region’s woes ahead of independence in July. The vast territory has been wracked by violence since southerners voted in January to separate from the north and form a new nation. More than 1,500 people have since died in south-south violence, according to the United Nations. At least seven rebel militias are at war with the government, the UN says. Gun battles between these militias and the army, and tribal warring over cattle, have erupted in nine of the south’s 10 states. South Sudan’s internal crisis has been overshadowed by the threat of open conflict with the north, and persistent fighting in the border region in recent weeks has displaced tens of thousands and strained the fragile peace. Analysts say that even if the north-south peace holds, the new
country could still fail if it cannot rein in its internal violence. “This was a cattle raid assumed to be carried out by armed militia from Unity state,” said army spokesman Philip Aguer. “Seven police were killed including two officers, and 22 civilians.” These were preliminary figures, he said, adding that the raid took place in Warrap state. The southern army said it was holding defensive positions near the north-south border after it accused the north of twice bombing its territory, on Friday and Monday. The independence vote was the climax of a 2005 peace deal that ended a civil war which killed about 2 million people. North and south Sudan have fought for all but a few years since 1955, a conflict caused by ethnic, religious and ideological differences and oil. The Republic of South Sudan is due to be founded on July 9. (Times of India)
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
27
World News Girls treated as commodities in the UK, child prostitution trial told
A Filipino soldier mans a checkpoint in 2010 on the island of Mindanao. The U.S. says the island is at risk of harboring terrorists.
U.S. issues terror-related travel warning for Philippines U.S. CITIZENS should «exercise extreme caution» when traveling to the Philippines, the U.S. State Department said Tuesday in a statement. «Targeted sites may be public gathering places including, but not limited to, airports, shopping malls, conference centers, and other public venues,» said the statement. The warning, which is an update from November, specifies the island of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago as particularly dangerous and at great risk of harboring terrorist activity. Manila might also be included, the statement said. Because of election-related violence, the Philippine government declared a state of emergency in November 2009 for the Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces, as well as Cotabato City in Mindanao. This state of emergency is still in effect, according to the State Department.
Travelers should be aware of heightened police and military presence in these areas and of kidnap-for-ransom gangs that are active in the Philippines and target foreigners, the department said. Mindanao is a predominantly Muslim autonomous region, set up in the 1990s to quell armed uprisings by people seeking an independent Muslim homeland in the Philippines, a predominantly Christian country. In November 2009 at least 57 people were killed when their convoy was ambushed in Maguindanao. The former mayor of the province was accused of plotting the deaths to thwart a political rival. The State Department issued a worldwide caution to warn U.S. citizens that terrorism can happen anywhere and urges those visiting the Philippines to register with the U.S. Embassy to be notified of emergencies, the statement said. (CNN)
TEENAGE GIRLS were treated as «sexual commodities to be sold or gifted», a jury in a child prostitution trial has been told in the UK. Nine men deny a range of sexual offences against seven girls in Shropshire. The men, who are aged between 21 and 59 and from Telford, face more than 50 charges at Stafford Crown Court. Charges include rape, controlling child prostitution and sexual activity with girls under the age of 16. NOT ABOUT RACE One of the defendants is accused of trafficking a child in the UK for exploitation. The men on trial are Ahdel Ali, 23, Murbarek Ali, 28, Mohammed Ali Sultan, 24, Tanveer Ahmed, 39, Mahroof Khan, 33, Noshad Hussain, 21, Mohammed Islam Choudhrey, 52, Mohammed Younis, 59 and 34-year-old Abdul Rouf. They deny all of the charges, which relate to the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of girls in Wellington between September 2007 and December 2009. The victims are seven teenage girls, one of whom was 13 years old at the time the alleged offences were
committed. The girls, who cannot be identified, were said to have received cash, alcohol, drugs, meals and mobile phone credit in exchange for sex with some of the defendants. Deborah Gould, prosecuting, said the men in the dock had variously trafficked, raped or sexually abused girls, both over and under the age of 16, over a considerable period of time.
the girls and exploited them either for their own sexual gratification or for money. She said some of the girls thought they were in love with their abusers and that the abusers were in love with them. The abusers gave them gifts, encouraged confidences and gave them attention and encouraged and enticed the girls to spend time with them and not their family and friends.
MYTHS WITHOUT FOUNDATION She said the case was not about race, religion, colour or creed and it was not claimed that the men had a specific interest in children or that it was a «paedophile ring». The prosecutor told the jury that the defendants may seek to paint the victims as anti-social, dishonest, untruthful and promiscuous young women who lived entirely selfish lives and could not be controlled by parents or teachers. She said: «These are myths without foundation. The prosecution claim these men ensnared these girls. They had cars, jobs and money which gave them both freedom and power. They enticed the girls, groomed
TEACHERS› CONCERNS Through such mechanisms all of these defendants were able to engage in various forms of sexual activity with various of the girls named in the charges. Some went further still and treated them as sexual commodities to be sold or gifted as they pleased.» Eight of the defendants live in the Wellington and Arleston areas of Telford, six are married and one is a grandfather. The jury was told the trial was the result of a West Mercia Police inquiry, codenamed Operation Chalice, which started after concerns were raised by teachers, parents and others about sexual abuse and exploitation of teenage girls in the Wellington area. (BBC)
Greece crisis: Commissioners fear future of eurozone EU COMMISSIONERS have a «profound sense of foreboding» about Greece and the future of the eurozone, a leaked account of a meeting has suggested. The document, seen by BBC News, said this was in reaction to the «damning failure» of eurozone ministers to agree a new bail-out for Greece last night. The internal memo was written by an official who attended Wednesday›s gathering of commissioners in Brussels. The author warned that the markets would now «smell blood». The European Commission said it would not comment «on anonymous interpretations of meetings». The document said that the planned second Greek financial rescue package on top of last year›s 110bn-euro (£161bn; £98bn) bailout would dominate the forthcoming European Council meetings next week.
It added that any default on Greek government debt - as espoused by Germany - would leave the Greek banks insolvent and «threaten the viability of the ECB [European Central Bank] itself» which owns 49bn euros of Greek bonds. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso was said to be «clearly more worried now than he was a year ago when the sovereign debt crisis first broke». He was said to have remarked that the markets would «smell blood» at this division between the ECB - which is set against any form of Greek default - and Germany, which wants banks to write off some of their investments in any second bailout. Senior European Commission sources told the BBC that President Barroso is increasingly frustrated at this lack of agreement and that the mood of the commission meeting was sombre.
Greek riot police officers confront a protester during a strike against government austerity plans in Athens on Wednesday.
Greek PM proposes unity coalition - state TV GREEK PM George Papandreou has proposed a unity government as he tries to win support for austerity measures demanded by the EU and IMF, state TV reports. Some reports said Mr Papandreou had even offered to step down, in talks with opposition leader Antonis Samaras. Mr Papandreou has been facing the risk of a revolt in his Pasok party over the controversial austerity
package. Greek police clashed with protesters outside parliament over the measures, and unions held a general strike. Mr Papandreou is seeking support for a new austerity programme of 28bn euros (£24.6bn; $40.5bn) in cuts to take effect from 2012 to 2015. On Tuesday, one member of parliament defected from Mr Papandreou›s Pasok party, leaving it
with only 155 of the chamber›s 300 seats. At least one other Pasok deputy has threatened to vote against the new programme of cuts and privatisation of state assets, and a number of others are said to be wavering. The EU and IMF are demanding the measures in return for the release of another 12bn euros in aid next month which Athens needs to pay off maturing debt. (BBC)
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Classifieds
Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate
June 18 - 24, 2011
946-4664 Fax: 946-4661
Email: tcnews@tciway.tc
Website: tcweeklynews.com
OPTOMETRIST NOTICE OF SALE BY
PUBLIC AUCTION
@@ Bachelor in Optometry qualification required and at least 5 years post qualification experience @@ Both hospital and community optometry practice experience and advantage @@ Salary commensurate with experience ranging from $50K All applicants must be registered with the TCI Health Practitioners Board
Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands: 7172
Belonger Only need apply Please send CV to islandpharmacy@tciway.tc or fax: 649-946-4942
1. Parcel 60505/85
Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, three bedroom, living room, kitchen and dining room. Registered Proprietor: Stephanie Ann Williams and Leon McDonald Williams
Parcel 60802/57 Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a contemporary luxury full service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.
Pool & Beach Entertainment Manager
The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development with self contained apartments. The home comprises of three bedrooms, living room, kitchen and dining room. Registered Proprietor: Ruth Williams
Parcel 60503/225
Blue Hills and Stammers Run, Providenciales, comprising of two existing structures each containing two bedrooms, one bathroom, living/dining area and external deck area. Registered Proprietor: Alice Louise Arthur
Parcel 60505/132
This position is responsible for ensuring complete compliance with all hotel standards and overseeing the entire Pool & Beach Entertainment operation which includes Pool & Beach Attendants, Pool/Retail Attendants and Kids Club Coordinators. The Pool Manager has overall responsibility for safety at the pool, as well as managerial, administrative, communications and leadership duties, including:
Blue Hills and Stammer Run, Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, upper level accommodation consists of two, one bedroom units, containing a kitchen, living room and dining room. The ground level accommodation consists of a three bedroom unit, containing a kitchen, living room and dining room. In addition contains an incomplete single storey building comprising three, one bedroom, one bathroom units containing kitchen, living/dining area and front deck area. Registered Proprietor: Jean Baptiste Milien and Jeannial Israll Baptiste
Duties and Responsibilities:
Parcel 60101/21/ k42
• Through hands on management, ensure quality, safety and guest/owner experience is exceptional. • Keep all equipments and furnishings in 1st class condition. • Develops and coordinates resort recreational activities including, group beach activities when needed, individual/games, organized Kids Club outings and special functions, seasonal programs and special events. • Manage and oversee staff: Plan and organize workloads and staff assignments. • To ensure that all employees deliver the company brand promise and provide exceptional guest service at all times. • Responsible for scheduling of all workers and ensures proper set up of equipment and assignment space for guests. • Maintaining time sheets and records, and performing performance evaluations on all employees at the pool. • To ensure that employees provide excellent service to all guests in other departments as appropriate. • Maintain customer service/satisfaction standards and procedures with accordance with a Five Star resort.
Northwest Point, Providenciales, comprising of a one bedroom unit on the second floor, one bathroom, living room and balcony. Registered Proprietor: Elizabeth Lynn Perch
Minimum Requirements
Northwest & North Central, Providenciales, comprising of a single storey residential development, three bedroom and two bathrooms, kitchen, living/dining room, a laundry room and a porch in front of the property. Registered Proprietor: Deka Monique Williams & Roland Cadeau
• 10 years experience in recreation and entertainment or equivalent experience • Must be CPR Certified • Must have proven strong coaching and leadership skills, excellent written and communication skills. • Fluent English (additional language an asset.) Salary Range: $18,000.00 – $23,000.00 per annum
Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 10am to 5pm. Closing date for all application is June 17th, 2011 E- mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position and, along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com
Parcel 60703/164
Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales, comprising of a three storey detached main house incorporating four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, living area, dining area, office, kitchen, laundry, recreation room, 2nd living area, master bedroom lounge, garage, pool and terrace areas. In addition guest house contains a one bedroom guest room and maid quarter. Registered Proprietor: Thomas Chalmers Atkinson Misick and Joyanna Rosele Misick
Parcel 60809/168
The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales, comprising of a single storey apartment building containing four one bedroom, one bathroom units, kitchen, living/dining area. Registered Proprietor: Paulamae Patsylee Missick
Parcel 60003/45
The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 1st day of July 2011 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Manager (649) 946-8034 or fax number (649) 946- 4409.
June 18 - 24, 2011 PHONE: (649) 946-4664
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
29 FAX: (649) 946-4661
Accountant Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the position of Account for an established Insurance Brokerage in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Areas of responsibility includes but is not limited to:
Working with management to prepare and manage budgets • Preparation of monthly financial statements and Annual Accounts • Cash flow forecasting and Monitoring. Cash management • Management of Accounts Receivables & Accounts Payables • Bank Reconciliation • Monthly financial reconciliation and settlement with Insurance Companies, Brokers, and Agents • Payroll • Office Administration • Preparation and Filing of Annual Returns and other regulatory issues The suitable candidate should hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting with seven to ten years of relevant industry experience or the designation of CA, CPA, CGA or its equivalent and a minimum of five years work experience. In addition, the successful candidate will be someone who is a self starter and possess strong interpersonal and organizational skill and can work closely with others in a small office environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential. Knowledge of “Power Broker” an insurance brokerage management software package would be useful. Remuneration is in the range of US$45,000.00 to US$48,000.00 per annum.
Interested persons should submit their resumes or CV’s with references to NW Hamilton Insurance Brokers Ltd via email insure@ nwhamilton.tc, attention ACCOUNTANT
@@ Attractive incentive @@ Great part-time job for school kids or adults looking for an extra income
Contact: The Publisher
Turks and Caicos
Weekly News
Call: 946-4664
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos
30
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
June 18 - 24, 2011 FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
Gansevoort Turks + Caicos
VACANCIES Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a contemporary luxury full service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.
ROOMS DIVISION MANAGER
Report directly to the General Manager. This position is responsible for the planning, organizing, directing and coordinating all aspects of Front Office, Concierge, Guest Services, Housekeeping, Recreation, Guest Office and Fitness Center to ensure the efficient operation of those departments.
Duties and Responsibilities:
@@To ensure that all employees deliver the company brand promise and provide exceptional guest service at all times. @@To maximize employee productivity through the use of multi skilling, multi tasking and flexible scheduling to meet the financial goals of the business as well as the expectations of guests. @@To ensure that revenue generating departments operate in line with budget, maximizing revenues and profit through up-selling, pricing activities and proper yield management, while delivering on the company brand. @@Supervise continuous 7 day/week, 24 hour front office operation, night audit and housekeeping operations and assigned staff, including hiring, training, evaluating performance and scheduling work. @@To constantly evaluate local, national and international market trends vendors and other hotel operations to make sure that hotel own operations remain competitive and cutting edge. @@To ensure that employees provide excellent service to internal customer in other departments as appropriate. @@To spend time in public areas observing employee-guest interaction and talking with guests, working through department heads to coach employees in guest service skills as necessary. @@To handle all guest and internal customer complaints and inquiries in a courteous and efficient manner, following through to make sure problems are resolved satisfactorily. @@To actively participate in Sales and Revenue Management meetings to provide input on appropriate pricing structures to maximize yield and overall profits. @@To encourage heads of department to look for marketing and public relations opportunities to increase awareness and ultimately business. @@Monitor Front Office financial operations, including group billing, verifying rates/discounts, daily sales reconciliation, petty cash and room inventory controls. @@Ensure proper inventory controls and month end count for all Rooms Division departments. @@Assist with formulating budgets/forecasts and prepare monthly expense forecasts. @@Maintain customer service/satisfaction standards and procedures with accordance with a Five Star resort. @@Assist with maintaining and operating all computer equipment & programs supporting the Rooms Division operation. @@Provide training for Hotel Administration internship students. @@Be responsible for Life-Safety Code compliance. @@Perform daily room and public area inspections to ensure property standards are maintained. @@Minimum Requirements @@Hospitality Executive with minimum 10 years luxury international management experience-Caribbean experience preferred. @@Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Administration, Business Administration or equivalent experience. @@Must have proven strong coaching and leadership skills, excellent written and communication skills and exceptional problem resolution and relationship management skills @@Strong knowledge of all areas, Opera PMS, PC skills, Excel, MS Office Suite and high detail orientation. @@International Experience required, certified trainer. @@Fluent English (additional language an asset.) Salary Range: $50,000 – 60,000 annually commensurate with experience.
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Reports directly to the Chief Engineer. This position is responsible for the day to day maintenance of the hotel. This position demands attention to detail, technical expertise and understanding of the preventive maintenance process.
Minimum Requirements:
@@Minimum 5 years experienced, at least 2 years in construction field and/or resort property management. @@Ability to recognize and anticipate problems early. @@Require heavy lifting and hard work therefore an affinity for hard work and excellent physical strength is mandatory and must be flexible in work hours for 7/24 operation. @@Must be highly motivated, a self starter who needs little supervision and solution oriented. @@Excellent team player qualities and self discipline is mandatory. Salary Range: $7.00 – 10.00 hourly Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 10am to 5pm. Closing date for all application is June 17th, 2011 E- mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position and, along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos
Samuel Harvey Is looking for a Semi-skilled
Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.
Contact 231-0098
7157
SAG CONSTRUCTION
Is looking to fill the following positions:
1 Mason 1 Steel Fixer
Must be able to work 5 days per week salary $10.00 per hour contact 231-6889
Roselene Frit
One Handyman
needed
urgently Duties
General labourer work for a home, Monday – Friday 8am -3pm salary $5.00 per hour
Qualifications
Hard working and highly productive worker, friendly and able to work long hours and under minimum supervision Must speak Creole and Spanish and English is a plus
Closing date: 1st July 2011 Application should be sent to: Roselene Frit Five Cays Providenciales Telephone: 242-6894
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
31 FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
Dorell Williams of Meridian Trust Company
Labourer
Wanted
Vacancy Notice
Is seeking one
One
Full time at $6.00 an hour
Labourer
Cell # 241-6581 office# 941-3082
Contact: 232-5222
THE TURTLE COVE INN HOTEL Is looking for a
To work Monday to Saturday salary $5.00 per hour
Note: this advertisement is in relation to work permit renewal ONLY 7123
THE SIBONNE HOTEL
1 Gardner
To clean hotel rooms/laundry Must be able to work weekends and holidays Salary $5.00 per hour Only Belongers with previous experience need apply
Contact: Rahul Lakhani
Contact: Rahul Lakhani
at (649) 946-4203
at (649) 946-4203
7144
Mon - Friday 7:00am 4:00pm. $6.50 per hour. Belongers only need apply
Contact 946-4131
7118
HARTFUL JOLLY Is looking for a
Seeks to employ a
Tailor/Upholster
To clean hotel rooms/ laundry
To clean the hotel grounds and keep the garden clean Must be able to work weekends and holidays Salary $5.00 per hour Only Belongers with previous experience need apply
To work 5 days per week and on call when needed must have at least 5 years experience Belonger preferred send applications to P.O. Box 954
1 Gardener/ Painter
MAGASANI ATELIER & UPHOLSTRY
Is looking for
1 Domestic Worker
Domestic Worker
MASON NEEDED
We are looking to hire
Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. Contact 241-7564 or 232-4352
7146
The Somerset on Grace Bay is seeking Labour Clearance for the positions listed below. Suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently.
Cook
Motivated and enthusiastic individual will be responsible for preparing food for breakfast/dinner service. Ability to understand menus, follow recipes, and maintain awareness of ingredients and food groups is required. Food hygiene/ sanitation certification necessary. Must be dependable, team-oriented, and able to work evenings, weekends and holidays. Salary - $6.00-$7.50 per hour plus service charge, commensurate with experience, education and training.
Bartender
Minimum of 2 years of experience in a luxury resort or upscale restaurant. Must possess excellent verbal communication skills, pleasant and outgoing personality and strong customer relations skills. Possess experience with stock taking and inventories, must have good cashier skills, be a team player and work well under pressure.
Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to complete an application in person at The Somerset or submit a CV by e-mail at somersethr@thesomerset.com. Telephone inquiries can be made to Human Resources at 649-946-5900. The closing date for applications is June 30, 2011.
To work 3-5 days a week salary $6.00 per hour commission must have at least 5 years experience. contact 241-9105
7143
Farmer To work 5 days
per week. Salary $5.00 per hour. Contact 242-8228
7139
Senior Engineering Supervisor
We are seeking an experienced Senior Engineering Supervisor with previous experience in Healthcare environment essential;
• Applicants qualified BS Electrical Engineering and must have a minimum 10 years site experience as supervisor. • HVAC and Generator • Simplex fire alarm systems • TELECOR NC3 nurse call systems • Computer literate. • Available for callout ROTA ,with an I can do attitude • Excellent communication skills . These positions seek individuals with no criminal record who will fit well with the existing engineering team. Salary dependent on experience
Contact dwilson@interhealthcanada.tc
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
32
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664 ONE STOP LAUNDROMAT -GEORGE SEYMOUR Providenciales
June 18 - 24, 2011
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
FLOWERGIRL
QUINTIN SELVER South Dock Road, Providenciales
WARD CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: Beaches TCI, Kubera Ltd. / Goldsmith
FAX: (649) 946-4661 CLOVER LEAF AGENCY (AGNES SWANN) Is seeking to employ
Sales Administrator
LABOURER,
Is looking for a
CLEANER Female Driver With own transportation must be Salary $5.00 per hour. Only Turks & Caicos Islands need to apply.
Telephone: 231-0539/ 241-7734 7151
LABOURER/ DOMESTIC WORKER
able to work from 9am – 3pm
Salary $5.00 per hour. Only Turks & Caicos Islands need to apply.
contact 231-3788
Telephone: 241-7734 7152
Carries out and oversees all sales activities for the hotel etc. Salary $7.00 per hour 8am-5pm
3 Labourers
Sales Clerk
To work from 8am – 5pm. Salary $6.00 per hour. To work in the garden.
Contact: (649) 332-5533 7148
Contact: 246-4769
Sales personnel must be full of bright ideas and ways to sell the product. Salary $250.00 per week
Turks and Caicos
Weekly News the national newspaper of the turks and caicos islands
ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE The Turks and Caicos Islands’ oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:
WRITERS / PHOTO JOURNALISTS Candidates must have at least five (5) years experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience. Position available March 1, 2010
FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/PAGINATOR This position requires someone with at least five (5) years experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and PhotoShop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience. Position available March 1, 2010
REPORTER TRAINEE Preferably a High School graduate or someone with an extremely good command of the English language for court and community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience. Position available March 1, 2010
ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based. Position available June 30, 2011 Forward applications to: The Publisher Duncanson Publications Ltd. P.O. Box 52, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Email: tcnews@tciway.tc NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE Preference will be given to Belongers and Legal Residents Closing date for applications is November 14, 2008
7121
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CARIB GAMING LTD.
Club Pillows
Labourer • Salary $5.00 per hour • Must be able to do general cleaning • Must be trustworthy and reliable • Must be able to work independently • Must be willing to work flexible hours
Must have at least 3 years experience and be able to work with little or no supervision. Salary start at $5.50 an hour and is based on experience.
Contact 332-6364
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
Due to circumstances beyond our control...
ROTARY BINGO has moved to the
Cactus Bar & Grill
in the Bight across from Tropicana Doors open at 7:00 pm
ALL CASH PRIZES!!! PROGRESSIVE JACKPOT NOW
OVER $6,400
Deadline for applications is June 15th 2011.
Interested persons should be dependable and send applications via fax at (649) 941-4034. C/o Alliance Realty Ltd.
7153
7154
contact 241-0777
Technician
Must have a minimum of 5 years experience. Must be able to work 6 days per week. salary negotiable
Deadline June 28th, 2011
Seeks
2 Gardeners
Slot
is looking for a Seasonal
George Seymour
MONTE RESTAURANT
Labourer
2 Cooks
Is looking for a
BEACH ATTENDANT
At the Turks & Caicos Club Immediate opening for a part time beach attendant. Must have resort experience, be able to sail and swim, be reliable, outgoing and friendly to guests. Flexible hours. Belongers need only apply.
Please fax resume
to 946-5858
To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.
Contact 231-0539
– salary $6.50 per hour
2 Waitresses – salary $5.00 per hour
7147
A & J GROCERIES Is seeking a
FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
7156
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
33
Contact: 941-3577
7068
Sunny Reef Ltd. Candidate should possess a busy restaurant experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English with excellent communication skills, be a team player with strong work ethic, available for work on weekends and holidays. Working hours flexible. Salary base on experience and qualifications.
Bussy • 2 Years experience with Micro POS System and working at a busy restaurant • Energetic and excellent customers service skills • Fluent in English, written and verbal • POS MICRO SYSTEM
Dish washer • 2 years experience in busy restaurant • Must be able body and energetic, fluent in English, Spanish and verbal . • Working hours 6 days a week. • standing on your feet for long hours
(JACKPOT PAID BY CHEQUE)
labourer
Food and drinks available
• 2 years experience in busy restaurant • Must be able to work in a busy restaurant and follow instruction • Heavy duty kitchen ware to wash • Must speak and write English • Knowledge of basic kitchen operation
Human Resource Manager PO.Box 811, Providenciales Turks and Caicos
34
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
Beauty at the Beach
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
BRIC’S ACADEMY Is looking for a
Cook/ Cleaner
TELEPHONE: 946-5093
Is seeking an exceptional
Babysitter
Massage Therapist @@Must have at least five years experience @@Must be able to perform Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Thai Massage, Shiatsu, Pregnancy Massage, Stone Massage Body Scrubs & Rituals @@Must possess a clean valid drivers license @@Must be available to work over a six day per week showing flexibility of time @@Must have managerial skills @@We are a full service salon so Esthetics, Manicures & Pedicures, Waxing skills would be an advantage
To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.
Contact 241-0768
7129
7119
GEORGE HINSON
SHIRWARD CONSTRUCTION -HOWARD GARDINER
Is seeking a
Providenciales
Church of God of Prophecy Bottle Creek North Caicos seeks
Salon Helper
To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour. Must have experience in salon work.
Contact 246-0822 7115
FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
LABOURERS Salary $5.00 per hour. Only Turks & Caicos Islands need to apply Telephone: 231-1803/ 241-7734
JOB VACANCY Margaritaville Grand Turk currently seeks to identify experienced
Servers and a kitchen helper
232-1457
7113
CEDRIC SELVER Is looking for a
Labourer $5.00 per hour Interested person should contact
To work 5 days per week. Interested Belonger can contact 941-2450 between the hours of 9am -5pm Monday - Friday
Domestic Worker
To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour. Contact 241-2316
Kevin Taylor Is looking for a
Dishwasher To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. Contact 242-7954
for the upcoming season.
Persons must be able to work under pressure, able to work public holidays and late nights when necessary and be willing to work as part of a team. Salary: $ 6.00 per hour. Submit applications accompanied by a resume to the Human Resource department or by faxing to 649-9461514. Applications close on June 24th, 2011. While we thank every applicant for their interest in Margaritaville Grand Turk, only short-listed persons will be contacted. Belongers will be given preference.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
INTERIOR DESIGNER POSITION
Finishing Touch in Providenciales requires an intermediate qualified interior designer. Requires strong understanding of design principles and excellent auto cad skills. Will be able to handle multiple projects. Salary is $4000 per month and must be a fully qualified interior designer with experience in hospitality and residential projects. Please send resume to Tanis Wake-Forbes with relevant experience to tanis@finishingtouch.tc Interviews will be by appointment only. Position available August/10. Applications must be submitted by July 1st, 2011.
7120
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
35
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
KIM TAYLOR
LABOURER
needed Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour. Contact 245-3274 Deadline for application is July 3rd, 2011
Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) / Chief Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer (“CAMLO”) Responsibilities: • The successful candidate will be a subject matter expert in AML compliance, with strong experience in a regulated financial services compliance group. • The CCO/CAMLO will coordinate Anti-Money laundering activities and initiatives with all employees in a Law Firm and Corporate Service Provider for the purpose of ensuring that their AML program consistently meets supervisory expectations and operates based on industry best practices. • The candidate acts independently and provides support to all employees, ensures new policies are efficiently implemented and participates in testing, training, issue tracking and compliance reporting. • The role requires providing advice to business leadership and staff on a regular basis, completing compliance risk assessments, and assuming independent ownership of substantial AML projects and initiatives. • The CCO/CAMLO ensures complete due diligence is maintained to identify and verify clients, analyzes client activities and when necessary files Suspicious Activity Reports. • The candidate will act as a liaison between Financial Regulators and the business units to ensure all enquiries are responded to in a timely manner.
Required Skills: • Undergraduate degree within a financial services related field (e.g. Accounting, Economics, or Finance). Financial Service certifications are preferred but not required. • +/-10 years of professional financial services compliance related experience, including +/-3 years of specific AML compliance experience. • Proven 5+ years experience in overseeing and managing a highly effective compliance function in a financial services/heavily regulated industry. • Proficiency in TCI AML Legislation and other international AML laws, rules and regulations. (e.g. FATF’s recommendations and USA Patriot Act.) • Proven cultural transformation experience in leading change across an organization through influence and collaboration. • Self-motivated with the ability to independently/confidentiality work with strong time management skills. • Strong analytical, interpersonal and organizational skills. • Strong writing/oral communication ability. • Comfortable interacting with personnel at all levels within an organization, including senior management.
Remuneration will be based on experience. Closing date for applications: June 30th 2011
To work 5 days per week. Salary $4.50 per hour. Must have experience in yard or property cleaning. Belonger preferred.
Send resume to P.O. Box 954
LUC SAINT JEAN Is looking for a
Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour. Contact 241-7995
7122
Is looking for a
FAX: (649) 946-4661
REGISTERED SENIOR ARCHITECT
Applicants must be fully qualified RIBA Part 3 and registered ARB and RIBA with a minimum of 15 years post-qualification experience, with the ability to travel freely throughout the Caribbean, USA and Europe
SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT
Applicants must have a minimum of BA (Hons) in Architecture degree, RIBA Part status and 10 years practical experience, with the ability to travel freely throughout the Caribbean, USA and Europe Salaries commensurate with experience Qualified applicants please apply in writing to: P.O. Box 315, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands
Telephone: 649-946-5911 or email infor@swa.tc Qualified Belongers only need apply
Seeking
Property Manager A private villa on island is seeking a Manager. The successful applicant will need to work holidays, weekends and nights plus also maintain a 24 hour on call service. The ability to be self sufficient in catering to all guest’s requirements and issues that arise is essential. This position involves managing staff involved in numerous departments and also requires the applicant speak both fluent English and Spanish. The need for extensive knowledge in housekeeping, menu creating and liaising with the chef, both food and beverage service, accounting, office duties, marketing and advertising, communications with brokers, scheduling, payroll, villa provisioning and stocking, managing maintenance checklists and website creation is all essential. An applicant should have no less then 5 years experience in such a position, be attentive and outgoing with all guests, self sufficient in all areas and capable of taking care of anything that may occur. Salary commences at $25,000 per annum.
Apply with resume, quoting reference “Chief Compliance Officer” to
Deveraux C. Malcolm MISICK & STANBROOK P.O. Box 127 Providenciales fax: 946 4734 E-Mail: info@misickstanbrook.tc
All interested applicants please respond via email to kimstargazervilla@hotmail.com. Applicants may apply anytime before the 18th of June, please send your email with a current resume attached attention to Mark. The position will be available as soon as the appropriate person is found. Once your resume has been received we will inform you via email at that time if an interview will be required.
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
MAINTENANCE CREW PROVIDENCIALES
1 Electrician 1 Air Condition Technician
BAYVIEW MOTORS is currently looking to fill the position as a
Experienced Insurance Analysts The Financial Services Commission, a statutory body of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government responsible for the licensing and regulation of financial services businesses, is seeking Experienced Insurance Analysts:
7179
Must be able to work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION
FAX: (649) 946-4661
BAYVIEW MOTORS
Is looking for the following applicants:
Contact 941-3063 or 242-8905
June 18 - 24, 2011
Receptionist/ Cashier
This individual must possess the following good computer skills, good organizational and communication skills, good organizational and communication skills, excellent telephone etiquette, must have a valid drivers license and must be willing to work on weekends, must be willing to work with little or no supervision and must be willing to take on any other related task. Please submit all application between 9am-5pm Monday thru Friday
Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeward Highway Providenciales Please email all application to mariec@bayviewmotors.com Qualified applicants only will be contacted for interview
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The Analysts are responsible for assisting with the planning and conduct of off-site and onsite reviews of insurance entities, including reviewing the financial and operational systems of insurance businesses, to determine the entities’ financial status and level of compliance with their own internal policies and standards and relevant local and international standards, ordinances and regulations
Specific duties include:
• • • • • •
Assist in developing annual plans for onsite inspections/reviews of insurance entities Perform off-site and onsite reviews of insurance organizations Carry out rigorous analysis of financial statements, business plans etc. Monitor and report on trends in the financial performance of insurance entities Assist in evaluating and processing applications for insurance licenses Collect, collate and analyze statistical information relating to the insurance industry and licensees • Investigate, as directed, complaints by the public or queries in respect of the policies, practices and procedures of insurance entities • Develop and recommend and, upon approval, implement standards and procedures for the administration of the Insurance Dept. • Any other duties as set out in the Job Descriptions for Insurance Officers/Analysts or as assigned by the Head of Insurance.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Preferred qualification is a Degree in Accounting, Economics, Business Administration or equivalent professional qualification such as ACII or equivalent. Four (4) to Six (6) years related working experience in the insurance industry or insurance regulation. Management experience would be an asset.
SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
• Sound knowledge of financial and statistical analyses; • Sound knowledge of the operations of insurance entities and the insurance industry; • Good knowledge of local and international insurance regulations and standards, and generally of insurance law.
COMPENSATION RANGE
Depending on the level of professional qualification, experience level and number of years in the industry, the salary range offered is $35,701 to $51,589 per annum. Persons who are employed on a contract basis of one (1) to three (3) years will be eligible for a gratuity of 15% of basic pay upon the successful completion of the contract.
OTHER INFORMATION APPLICABLE TO BOTH POSTS
The duties for the posts may be carried out at either of the Commission’s offices in Grand Turk or Providenciales.
Applications should be received no later than June 30, 2011 and may be emailed to dmorrison@tcifsc.tc or dstrose@tcifsc.tc or faxed to 649-946-2369/649-941-8379.
7182
36
Due to circumstances beyond our control...
ROTARY BINGO has moved to the
Cactus Bar & Grill
in the Bight across from Tropicana Doors open at 7:00 pm
ALL CASH PRIZES!!! PROGRESSIVE JACKPOT NOW
OVER $6,400 (JACKPOT PAID BY CHEQUE)
Food and drinks available
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
ATLANTIC CONSTRUCTION
C & J EMPLOYMENT
Is looking for a
C & J EMPLOYMENT is looking to fill the following positions on behalf of our clients: Lucy Mott Lee, Salon De Marina, Ket’s Computer Services, Provo Repair Cabinet, Sweet T’s Restaurant.
Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.
Is looking to fill the following positions:
Domestic Worker
Dishwasher Labourer
– salary $5.00 per hour
Cashier
– salary $150.00 per week
2 Store/ Sales Clerks – salary $5.00 per hour
Computer Technician
– salary $400.00 per week Must have experience in repairing laptop and desktop, pc and laptop motherboard cleaning, repairing and rebuilding, recovery of deleted files and rebuilding damaged hard drives
CHARLES FULFORD STUBBS Is looking for
3 Domestic Workers To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour. Contact 243-2473
To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact 946-5278
Contact 941-8283
DOMESTIC WORKER
7176
FINBAR GRANT Is looking for a
FINBAR GRANT is looking for a
JOHN WILLIAMS/ UPRISING BAR AND RESTAURANT Is seeking to employ a
to do cleaning and ironing
KITCHEN HELPER
to clean, stock, garbage, recycle
SERVER
knowledge of POS System and willing to serve in the sun
Belonger Only Send resume attention: Tracey to tlc_tls@yahoo.com
7180
7177
Worker
Contact 245-4161
contact 245-4161
To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.50 per hour.
To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.
Barmaid/ Bartender To work at a local bar hours are 10-8. Salary $5.00 per hour. Belonger only need apply.
Contact 246-0016
deadline is July 13th, 2011
6735
IN THE MATTER OF TCI BANK LIMITED (IN LIQUIDATION)
Shore Excursion Company Shore Excursion Company on Grand Turk requires experienced professional for the position of
AND
Assistant General Manager and Special Projects Coordinator The successful candidate must have at least five (5) years of verifiable shore excursion experience; be computer literate and prove proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word and Power Point; have experience managing a large staff; have excellent verbal and written skills; customer service training; college/ training and education beyond secondary school; be able to motivate and lead a diverse staff; be profit oriented, self motivated, able to work independently and be able to work a flexible and demand schedule. Outstanding communication and follow-up skill are a must. Candidates should have a working knowledge of cruise line tour forms (TDF, TIF and EDQ) and cruise line dispatch procedures. The successful candidate must be free to travel for company development purposes, training and professional conferences. Those who qualify should respond with a resume/CV to:
Jill McCall President Caribbean Tours International Ltd. 649-332-5939
Domestic
Painter 7173
7178
Contact 345-9911
CAICOS CAFÉ
7174
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
37
IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE CAP (122)
NOTICE TO CREDITORS The creditors of the above-named Company are required, on or before August 15, 2011, to send their names and addresses and the particular of their debts or claims, and the names and addresses of their attorneys (if any) to Messrs. Anthony S. Kikivarakis and Mark E. Munnings, the Joint Liquidators for the said company at Butterfield Square, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. The creditors may be required by notice in writing from the said Joint Liquidators, by their Attorney or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claims at the office of the Joint Liquidators at such time as shall be specified in such notice. If in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Anthony S. Kikivarakis and Mark E. Munnings Joint Liquidators
7157
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
38
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
June 18 - 24, 2011
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
FAX: (649) 946-4661
Job Opportunities
Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala have vacancies for the following positions: Managerial Position:
HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER
We are looking for a highly self motivated professional who possesses a keen interest in hospitality with the ability to effectively manage a well established Luxurious Five Star Resort.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
• Effective running of the day- to -day operation of the hotel while ensuring that all cost effective measures are enforced. • Maintain a positive and professional work attitude towards all employees and Guest. • Attending to the needs of all internal and external guests with a drive to meet and exceed expectations as well as providing top quality services to all guests while achieving guest satisfaction. • Efficiently manage all aspects of the hotel operation. • Develop and enforce new rules and policies as the need arise. • Analyzed and prepare operating and capital expense budgets for the hotel when necessary. • Maintain confidentiality at all times with a view of protecting the resort and its customers. • Look after the up keeping and maintenance of the entire resort and its Assets.
Qualification and Experience:
The successful candidate must have: • Previous General Manager experience • At least a Master Degree in Hospitality or Hotel Management • Proven Multi Island and European Training Experience • Strong F & B capabilities and a minimum of 10 years Luxurious Hotel Experience • Ability to function effectively in a multi cultural environment • Excellent communication, organizational and decision making skills. • Excellent Computer skills. • The ability to maximize profit while cutting operational cost on a daily basis • Must live on property and be willing to work long hours including Public Holidays and weekends.
Engineering Administration Manager (BELONGERS ONLY)
We are looking for a highly motivated individual with at least 5yrs previous experience as an Administrative Manager or equivalent. The successful candidate must have knowledge of tools, equipment with the ability to plan, organize, direct and coordinate supportive services to the organization. Candidate will be required to work Public Holidays and weekends.
JOB SUMMARY
Support and assist the Chief Engineer in administrative duties as well as ensuring that the daily operations of the Department run smoothly.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provide supplies base on the needs of the Department and Projects. • Established policies and procedures when necessary. • Utilize the company system to compare monthly expenses against the budget.
• Create accurate and detail reports daily, weekly and monthly. • Monitor daily Budget and Capex to ensure that the entire department operates effectively within Budget. • Prepare schedules and coordinates travel arrangements. • Manage all timesheets and employee performance of a day to day basis. • Assist the fire Chief when necessary and update stock and order fire equipment when needed. • Monitor and arrange fire inspections from external contractors. • Liaise with the Estates Manager to ensure that all maintenance issues with homeowners are resolved in a timely manner. • Assist the Projects and Landscaping Manager when necessary. • Negotiate better prices with overseas and local suppliers before finalizing an order. • Obtain quote and make comparison with various companies before purchasing. • Promote energy saving and water conservation techniques. • Assist COMO Approach Team with ideas to save energy and water. • Follow up on urgent parts ordered and ship via FedEx or IBC.
Qualification and Experience:
• At least Bachelors degree in Business Administration. • Minimum of 5yrs experience within the administrative field. • Excellent problem solving, communication, administration, planning, organization and interpersonal skills. • Team player • Candidate must be willing to work long hours including weekends and public holidays when necessary for the efficient discharge of his/her duties.
OTHER MANAGERIAL POSITIONS • • • • • •
Financial Controller Spa Manager Chief Steward Executive Housekeeper Front Office/ Revenue Manager Asst. IT Manager
time. • Must conduct repairs on all outboard engines as the need arise. • Perform any other duties as outlined by your Department Head.
Qualifications and Experience:
• At least 5yrs experience as a boat Mechanic. • Must have an Outboard Mechanic Certificate. • Candidate must have excellent communications skills with the ability to follow instructions and work independently without supervision. • Must have excellent problem solving ability with strong knowledge of boating equipment and Engines operation. Position available immediately.
Boat Captain (BELONGERS ONLY)
This position requires the successful candidate to be in command of Parrot Cay transfer boats to and from the Leeward Marina for Staff and guest transfer as well as the transportation of cargo from time to time. The successful candidate will be required to work shift (day and Night) Weekends and Public Holidays.
Areas of responsibility are:
• To achieve and maintain the highest level of customer service and satisfaction through efficient helpful service at all times. • To supervise and co-ordinate on board staff to ensure the health, safety and welfare of passengers, crew and vessel at all times. • Must be presentable and polite, be respectful of other crew and speak clear English. • Must have a hand’s on role regarding the maintenance and cleaning activities around the vessel. • Must be capable of carrying out daily maintenance check on outboard engines. • Must be prepared to carry out life jacket drills to all guests and staff on board vessels. • Must be prepared to accept responsibility for the vessel that he/she operates. • Must be physically fit and prepared to undergo annual physical checkups and be able to assist in the loading of baggage’s and cargo when required.
Qualifications:
Kindly contact the Human Resources Department for an indepth detailed copy of the job description for the above positions. Candidates who are interested in the above positions will be required to live on Parrot Cay for the efficient discharge of his/her duties.
• Must have a Boat Captain License with the ability to handle a 48ft inboard diesel engine. • operate a 30ft high speed vessel with guests aboard. • Certificate in shipboard safety, STCW 95. • Candidate must speak English clearly and be able to converse with the Guests.
Boat Mechanic (BELONGERS ONLY)
Position available immediately.
The successful candidate must be a highly motivated individual with the ability to work flexible working hours including Weekends and Public Holidays.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Responsible for the quarterly maintenance of all boat engines. • Must conduct repairs to all electrical, navigation, main engines, gearbox etc. • Must be able to diagnose mechanical, fuel and electrical problems and to conduct repairs quickly. • Must be able to disassemble engine and replaced parts when necessary. • Ensure that all regular boat repairs are done to the highest standard. • Making sure that the boat is prepared prior to boarding
Private Estates Supervisor (BELONGERS ONLY)
The successful candidate must provide and coordinates all aspects of (back of house) personalized care to all guests and home owners during their stay and must assist in all areas of the job when necessary. Candidate may be required to overnight on Parrot Cay from time to time for the efficient discharge of his/her duties.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Adhere to all standard operating procedures. • Maintain a co-operative, team- like attitude with coworkers, to ensure that we achieve our common goals
Continued on facing page
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
POSITION AVAILABLE for a
SUPERVISOR FOR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Continued
• • • • • • • • •
FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
Job Opportunities •
39
@@ Individual must be a competent, mechanically minded person with @@ supervisor experience for Property Management. Supervisor will assist @@ with a variety of tasks related to the maintenance of several properties. @@ Successful incumbent should have several years in engineering. @@ Job includes management of a small staff and a considerable amount @@ of manual labour. Must have their own tools and their own car. @@ Salary commensurate with experience
of maximizing guest satisfaction and profit margins. Maintain complete knowledge at all times of all hotel and spa services, hours of operation as well as all hotel and Spa operation procedures. Read and adhere to schedule postings in regards to shifts, assignments and entering of guest histories. Be aware of appearance, promptness with appointments, quality of work and attitude with guest. Must be able to maintain the standard set-up for each butler villa. Must check all villas prior to guest arrival and assist the designated Butler if there are any last minute requests. Ensure that Butlers Villas are kept tidy and stocked with items as per check list. Ensure that a maintenance log is generated for each Butler Villas and job undertaken are done in a timely manner. You must supervise each task to make sure that they are professionally done in a manner that exceeds our guest expectations. Ensure that all personal items/luggage that is left behind by the home owner is secured and stored away. Maintain stock of VIP accessory items for use within the Butlers Villars.
Please forward resumes to:
Human Resources Manager, PTW Holdings Ltd. Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Fax: (649) 941-4664 7168
The Meridian Club on Pine Cay
Qualifications
• Candidate must have an Associate’s or Bachelors Degree in Hospitality or Business Administration • One to three years hospitality experience. • Excellent Communication skills, with strong leadership caperability. • Must be a people’s person, a team player and must possess a keen interest in providing top quality services to our guests. • Ability to focus attention to details. • Advance computer skills are essential. • Must have the ability to remain calm and courteous with demanding/difficult guest/ employees or situations. • Must have the ability to be consistent in job performance and attitude.
The Meridian Club, one of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ original and most unique resort experiences is now seeking a qualified on-site Restaurant Host.
Restaurant Host Responsibilities:
LINE POSITIONS:
1 Security Officers Commis Chef Chef de Partie 1 Accountant Food & Beverage Server Spa Therapist 1 Night Auditor Spa Attendant Massage Therapist 1 Receiving Clerk Turndown Attendants Night Spa Receptionist 1 Finished Carpenter Auyurvedic Lifestyle Consultant Night F & B Supervisor
1 Electrician Pilates and Fitness Teacher Maintenance Technician 1 A/C Technician Water Sports Instructor Night Room Service Supervisor 1 Vector Control person 2 Gardeners Recreation Attendant 1 Canteen Cook Kitchen Stewards Laundry Attendants Room Attendants 1 Boat Crew
Salaries for these positions will be paid base on qualification and experience. Please note that all application must be submitted with a valid Police Record, two reference letters from previous employers or a notary public and current educational certificates. Belongers are encouraged to apply. Only suitable Qualify Candidates will be contacted for an interview. All Curriculum Vitae’ should be forward to the Human Resources Department at the following address:
Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala P.O. Box 164 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Ph: (649) 946 7788, Fax: (649) 946 7749 Email: joel.richards@parrotcay.como.bz or melissa.williams@parrotcay.como.bz
• • • • • • •
Set up and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in a fine dining setting. Clear tables and service areas following meals. Take meal orders. Keep dining room and poolside dining area neat and tidy Set “TEA” in the afternoon Make guests feel special and welcome Acquire information concerning items served so as to answer guest questions knowledgeably.
Basic Qualifications:
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Must be fluent in English (both verbal and written) and be easily understood by guests. At least a high school diploma. At least 6 months prior experience waiting tables Proven experience in the Customer Service industry in a min. 4-star property Service aptitude and able to work cooperatively with others Must be neat and tidy and present a positive image Must have a talent for remembering people and making them feel welcome Must present a friendly, helpful attitude toward guests. Must feel comfortable riding on boats in all weather conditions Must reside on Pine Cay to be available for breakfast and dinner service and clean-up. Must be physically fit and able to lift 50 pounds. Must be able to carry a TRAY with food on it. Must be willing to work days, nights, weekends and holidays.
Wage: Based on qualifications and experience. From US$6.00/hour Position available: October 2011 (Full-time SEASONAL position. The Meridian club closes annually for 3-4 months for maintenance) Belongers only need apply. Applicants should submit: Resume including work history with name(s) of supervisor(s), plus 3 references with telephone numbers and description of how you know each person. A telephone contact for applicant must also be on cover letter or resume; Current Health certificate; Current Police Report and proof of Belongership should accompany resume. Qualified candidates will be called within 2 weeks of receipt of application Please send letter of interest with resume and other required items to Beverly Plachta via email: manager@meridianclub.com or fax to 649-9417010. Information may also be dropped off in an envelope at TCR Sotheby’s Venture House building near Salt Mills in Grace Bay.
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Sports International
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
Bruins win Stanley Cup The Boston Bruins won their first Stanley Cup in 39 years, defeating the Vancouver Canucks 4-0 Wednesday night in the seventh and deciding game of the National Hockey League›s annual championship. The loss didn›t go over well with hundreds of mostly young Canuck fans, who took to the streets and set several overturned vehicles afire a few blocks from Rogers Arena where the game was played. After dropping the first two games in Vancouver, the Bruins took four of the last five games from the Canucks, who struggled to stay in Game Seven after going down 1-0 in the first period. The Bruins blew open the game in the second, after rookie Brad Marchand sprung on a rebound off of Canuck goalie Roberto Luongo to put away his second goal of the match. «We knew the second goal was going to be huge,» Marchand, the 23-year-old rookie said in a postgame interview. «It was nice to get that one, and we kept pushing forward after that.» Marchand would finish the game with two goals and one assist. But the game was really decided by Thomas, who polished off his
Rafael Nadal would have a long line of opponents breathing down his neck in Wimbledon. The Boston Bruins won their first Stanley Cup in 39 years after whipping the Vancouver Canucks 4-0 in the deciding NHL game on Wednesday night.
spectacular playoff performance with a Game Seven shutout to take the coveted Conn Smythe trophy. Tim Thomas -- whose unorthodox goalkeeping mystified the Canucks all night -- set the NHL record for most shots faced and most saves in playoff history. He also shattered Johnny Bower›s 1960s record for most saves in a Stanley Cup final. The Bruins now have won the Stanley Cup six times, fourth-most
among all NHL franchises, but hadn›t captured the sport›s most coveted prize since 1972. They had been to the finals five other times since they last won, but this time marked their first appearance since 1990. The Canucks have been to the finals three times in their 41 seasons in the league, but have never won. They were seeking to become the first Canadian team to win the NHL title since the Montreal Canadiens in 1993. (CNN)
Mavericks win first-ever NBA championship THE DALLAS Mavericks have come a long way. After only one other NBA Finals appearance in 2006, which they lost to Miami, the underdogs fought hard to make sure that this time they didn›t leave empty-handed. The Mavericks beat the Heat 105-95 in Game 6 of the finals on June 12, winning the coveted championship title for the first time in the team›s history. Dirk Nowitzki scored 21 points for the Mavericks and took home the Finals MVP trophy. We worked so hard and so long for this,» Nowitzki said. «The team has had an unbelievable ride. NO CROWN FOR KING JAMES While many rooted for the Mavs because they were the underdogs, others just hoped to see the Miami Heat fail. After signing All-Star players LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, the Heat hoped this season would end with a championship. But it wasn't the confidence of the team that bothered fans; it was one of the players. James, also called King James, unexpectedly left his hometown and team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, last year. He brought his talents to Miami in order to win more games. Many Cavaliers fans thought this decision was selfish. James knew that the only way to silence critics was with an NBA title. But when the two-time league
Dirk Nowitzki, who won the Finals MVP award, was instrumental for the Mavericks’ in their first ever NBA championship win.
MVP player faltered in the second half of Game 6, a loss for the Heat became clear. James was left without a trophy yet again. Sometimes you got it, sometimes you don›t, and that was the case in this series,» James said. THE DYNAMIC DUO For Maverick teammates Dirk
Nowitzki and Jason Terry, this victory was the sweetest. With over 20 years of combined playing time for Dallas, these two were ready for their turn to win. «We had no champions on this team, Mavs center Tyson Chandler said. «And we walked away with a team full of champions. (bellinghamherald.com)
Nadal gunning to retain Wimbledon title RAFAEL NADAL and Caroline Wozniacki have been named as the top seeds for next week›s Wimbledon tournament, the third grand slam of the season. Defending champion Nadal heads the men's section from Novak Djokovic and six-time champion Roger Federer, as the All England Club organisers chose to adhere to the top five placings in the current world rankings. Further down the list, there are small changes from the official rankings, with last year's finalist Tomas Berdych named as the sixth seed, up one place from his world mark, while Andy Roddick is two places higher at eighth. The woman’s seedings are complicated by the return from injury of both Williams sisters, with defending champion Serena ranked eighth and older sister Venus in as the 24th seed. Wozniacki tops the women’s list
despite never having won a major title. She is seeded to face last year’s runnerup Vera Zvonareva in the final. Men’s seedings: 1 Rafael Nadal 2 Novak Djokovic 3 Roger Federer 4 Andy Murray 5 Robin Soderling 6 Tomas Berdych 7 David Ferrer 8 Andy Roddick 9 Gael Monfils 10 Mardy Fish Women›s seedings: 1 Caroline Wozniacki 2 Vera Zvonareva 3 Na Li 4 Victoria Azarenka 5 Maria Sharapova 6 Francesca Schiavone 7 Serena Williams 8 Petra Kvitova 9 Marion Bartoli 10 Samantha Stosur
Vera Zvonareva ended the comeback of Serena Williams with a hard-fought three-hour victory at Eastbourne.
Serena comeback ended by Zvonareva SERENA WILLIAMS has been beaten in her comeback event in Eastbourne, losing a tight three-set second round match to top seed Vera Zvonareva on Wednesday. American Williams has not played in a competitive tournament
since defeating Zvonareva in the Wimbledon final a year ago. However, the Russian claimed some revenge for that loss, recovering from dropping the opening set to secure a 3-6 7-6 7-5 triumph after three hours of intense tennis.
June 18 - 24, 2011
Sports National
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TCIFA shows appreciation to hard working volunteers IN APPRECIATION of the many volunteers that dedicate their time and effort to coaching the youths of the nation, the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) held an evening of appreciation last weekend. Up to thirty coaches attended the event as the football association paid tribute to the people that ensure it is one of the best organised and proactive bodies in the Caribbean. With over 500 youths actively involved in the sport and over 20 leagues in operation the association has grown from strength to strength in recent years. The progress shown at domestic level has enabled the association to be successful on the international stage with U-17 and U-20 Boys and Girls’ teams competing in several FIFA competitions. In addition the TCI Senior Women’s teams have twice competed in World Cup Qualifiers and the Senior Men have had wins against the Cayman Islands (3-2 in the Digicel Cup 2006) and St. Lucia (2-1 in the World Cup in 2008). None of this would have been achieved without the support of the coaching staffers that give up their free time to help the TCIFA’s development programmes. Last weekend the coaches were allowed to spend some time relaxing at the offices of the TCIFA’s
Action in the Sailrock U-13 League. Taking time off the field, some of the TCIFA’s football volunteers in cool down mode.
Academy, a place where they would normally be working hard developing the many players in the TCIFA’s programmes. Chris Bryan, the TCIFA’s president, expressed his gratitude to the coaches adding that the association would continue to move forward and provide more opportunities for its young players. With added infrastructure which will include more changing rooms, dormitories for travelling teams, additional floodlights as well as a Beach Soccer facility, the TCIFA has no plans to rest on its laurels. Bryan encouraged the coaches to share in this vision. General Secretary, Mrs. Sonia Bien-Aime added: “To host an
appreciation event for our coaches was the least that we (TCIFA) could do to show gratitude. We could never repay them for their commitment and dedication to our programmes, which would not be able to function without them.” Technical Director Matthew Green was equally appreciative of the coaches: “We have created an excellent team of coaches who are very reliable, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The improvement we see in the players is a testament to their services”. Any individuals who are interested in assisting with the TCIFA’s programmes should contact the association at 941-5532 or the Technical Director at 231-1860.
Sailrock U-13 Boys’ League:
Final week will decide title winners WITH only one week of games left to play the Sailrock U-13 Boys’ League is going down to the wire. With two games remaining for each team Leeward Knights are only three points behind league leaders, the Blue Hills Sharks. Last weekend’s games saw the Knights close the gap on the Sharks with a 4-2 win against Five Cays FC, with goals coming from Cole Nickson (3) and Karl Shand for the Knights and Kevin Simmons for Five Cays. The final game of the day was an intense affair between the top two teams; as a win for the Sharks could have given
them the championship, but goals from Nickson, Leidson Gerome and Marly gave the Knights a well earned win and a shot at the title. Wilkins Slyain scored for the Sharks in the losing effort and he also scored in their 3-1 win over Long Bay Revolution, with the other goals coming from Jackson Pierre and Jeffty Deslaves. Gabriel Diotte-Joly scored for the Revolution as did Romeo Outten in their 6-1 loss to Five Cays. Simmons scored a hat-trick in that game and Padraig O’Sullivan and Jonel (2) also got onto the score sheet for Five Cays. MVP for week five was Nickson.
Josh for Sports
TCI track and field athletes need to adopt the Jamaican sprinter mindset AFTER carefully analysing the article in a recent Weekly News International Sports page “How Usain Bolt and Jamaica came to rule the world”, I would strongly recommend that it would be advantageous for us to adopt the positive attitudes/mindset that are highlighted there in. For all intents and purposes the lesson learned will only enhance the national and international image of our country and its citizens. HISTORICAL TRUTH The pioneers of this mentality did not begin with Bolt. It actually was ingrained in generation of Jamaicans more than half a century ago. Actually and factually, the wantto-be-like syndrome came about as a result of the resolve, intestinal fortitude and success of a handful of Jamaican giants who defied the odds by winning medals in the Olympic Games more than half a century ago.
There were athletic legends like Herb McKinley, McArthur Wint, Lennox Muller, Donald Quarrie, Michael Fray, Keith Gardiner, Una Morris, Merilyn Neuville and numerous others who set the stage to imbed that winning, determined, proud mind-set that exist among Jamaica track and field athletes— thus along came Usain “The Lightening” Bolt—a sub-product of that mindset. TCI HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BECOME GREATER THAN JAMAICA Some of you would say “Joshua has finally lost his mind”. But hold on, not yet, for I speak from cold stark reality. THE JAMAICAN MINDSET IS ALREADY AT WORK AMONG US There are certain native born TC Islanders who went to and some
By Joshua Gardiner
who still go to school in Jamaica. These individuals were/are so well conditioned by this positive reenforced winning mentality that they actually conquered the Jamaicans themselves in Jamaica itself. The first athlete that I knew of was Hon Dan Malcolm of South Caicos. Mr. Malcolm went to high school in Jamaica as an exceptional athlete (full of TCI’s conch, grits, lobster and fish) from these shores. Malcolm was Jamaica’s high school high jump
champion (Boys’ Champ). Actually, Malcolm was chosen, by the Jamaican Athletic Association to represent Jamaica in the Olympics some 60 odd years ago. Alas fate would not have it so Malcolm missed the Olympics because of injury. The second TC Islander to perfect the Jamaican track and field champion mentality was yours truly, Josh Gardiner. My final two years of high school was at Munro College in St. Elizabeth Jamaica. While at age 16 I literally broke the world’s triple jump record for my age in my house sports at Munro. The jump was 49 ft 6in, while the world’s record at that time was 55 ft 6in held by Jozef Szmidt of Poland. I was Boys’ Champs champion for two years straight 1968/69 [Senior Boys]. Donald Quarry was intermediate in 1968 and went to Excelsior in Kingston.
The third and fourth placed TC Islanders to adopt the Jamaican mentality and conquer Jamaica were Delano Williams and Domanique Missick. Actually, Williams is the fastest junior sprinter in the world this year in the 200M. When we compare the population of Jamaica and that of the TCI, we see that Jamaica’s 2.84M (July 2010) and the 35 000 in TCI is a no contest. WE CAN BE THE BEST IN THE WORLD Per capita (based on population size) we can become the world’s best track and field power. For if in your mind you can conceive it and in your heart you can believe it, by your actions you can achieve it. Jamaica has yellow yam, us TC Islanders have lobster, conch and fish. Keep fishing until we catch the big one, look out Bolt—we are coming to get you!
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
Delano Williams has become a household name in the sprint events, especially the 200M. He has also shown good leadership in the relays.
Adidas Grand Prix:
Williams leads Munro College to 4X400M victory TCI’S OWN Delano Williams anchored Munro College to another great 4X400M win and solidified the school’s position as one of the top junior sports educational institute in this region. Williams, who ran an impressive split, the best of the runners, ensured that his school in Jamaica (with a time of 3:12.47) finished ahead of fellow Jamaican school Calabar (3:15.49) and US
school Don Bosco Prep (3:19.82) at the NY event. Waynee Hyman (47.8s) started the race and the baton was passed to Rolando Reid (48.9s) then to Kaniell Harrison (48.4s) before Williams sealed the deal (46.4s). The runners were relatively surprised by their over three seconds victory since information from the school indicated that rain restricted their full training.
The national U-12 hockey players held numerous fundraisers to offset expenses.
Under -12 hockey team heading to Atlanta NINE of TCI’s best U-12 hockey players will represent the island chain in Atlanta later this month in the 2Hot4Ice tournament. Information from the Provo Hockey League, the local governing body of the sport, indicates that the youngsters have been training since
the second week of April for the June 24th-26th event. Along with practice drills at the Graceway Sports Centre with Coaches Steve Martin and Graham Canham and physical work with strength trainer John Wright, the players and officials have held a
number of fundraisers. Of the lot the youngsters staged a carwash. The national players include: Gabriel Diotte-Joly, Kennon Higgs, Cole Nickson, Kyle Cox, Livingston Ferdinand, Ricardo Valcin, Justin Hagan, Liam Delancy and Senga Brubaker as goalie.
New boys impress in Memorial Field opener TCI’S newest cricket team began life with a creditable display when they entertained Quality Supermarket in a T20 friendly, last weekend. KB Home Centre are a side made up of players from the country’s rugby club, with their headquarters at the Memorial Field in Grace Bay Village. The hosts won the toss and decided to bowl first on a track that gave the batsmen plenty to think about. But despite early losses, the visitors soon settled and it was Calvin Chase who anchored their innings with a fine 36, which included three fours and two sixes. He received good support from Jetu Gangalani (18) and while they were at the crease, a big total looked on the cards. But a great fight-back from KB Homes Centre saw Quality eventually dismissed for a disappointing 119 with Paul Baker claiming five wickets and Neil Coles
KB Homes Centre Cricket Club made a great start.
and skipper, Blair Mason, picking up two apiece. The rugby stars were soon struggling in reply as the visitors underlined their superior experience. Steve McDonnell (9), Mason (12) and Baker (15) all got starts but no
one was able to go on and make a decisive contribution. Pick of the Quality attack was Dane Ritchie (4-12), while Pawan Kumar (2-10) also bowled well. In the end the new boys came up 38 runs short of their target although
Mason was delighted with his side’s efforts. He explained: “For a very first outing that was a good performance against one of the island’s top sides. We have only had a handful of training sessions and so it was a great
effort. “Being a friendly we used the game to try a few things out and we certainly learned plenty from the exercise. We are now looking forward to entering the league in which I’m sure we will hold our own.”
June 18 - 24, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
June 18 - 24, 2011
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