TCWN March 1-7, 2014

Weekly News Volume 28 | No. 09| March 1 - 7, 2014

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Turks and Caicos

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Crime leaps

by 24%

Police recorded a massive leap in reported crime in 2013 with major PAGE  5 areas of concern including burglaries, thefts and firearm related incidents.

North Caicos leads the way in local food production  24

Owner of Issac Organic Farm, Courtney Missick (extreme right) watches on as a few of his many supporters unveil the sign to his new farm

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High school violence leads to three day strike

PAGE  4

Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles is the new AG PAGE  7

Island Fish Fry will not move yet PAGE 

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

High school violence leads to three day strike TEACHERS at the country’s largest high school refused to start work on Monday morning (February 24) after an armed raid the week prior left them terrified for their safety.

The 66 educators staged sit in within the Clement Howell High School grounds and demanded to speak to authorities about their working conditions.

Following intense dialogue with both Government and police officials, staff agreed to return to work on Thursday (February 27) if urgent measures to increase security were met.

These included a heightened police presence at the Blue Hills facility and clearing of shrubs and bushes from around the premises.

Violence is a common part of life for students and staff at Clement Howell High School, with a handful of serious incidents reported to police over the past year.

But teachers decided they could take no more after five young men with weapons invaded the school last Wednesday afternoon (February 19) in search of a pupil.

Principal Gerald Persaud told the Weekly News that the raiders, all of whom were pupils or ex-pupils of the school, jumped the back fence at about 2.30pm to enter the compound.

They went from classroom to classroom in search of a pupil before security guards, teachers and two police officers who were on the compound were able to corner them and escort them from the premises.

All of the men were carrying bottles and knives and one of the security guards reported seeing what may have been the barrel of a gun, said Persaud.

Two of the men were current pupils aged 14 and 16, while the other three were former students aged 16, 17 and 20 plus.

The whole incident lasted no more than 15 minutes but caused “panic and frustration among the students and the teachers”.

“The reports that I have had, no one was injured, but of course the psychological and emotional effect

The school is the largest in the Turks and Caicos Islands

can be very great,” the headteacher stressed.

Police are looking into the incident and currently have one person in custody assisting with their investigations.

The frightening incident mirrored one that took place in December 2012 when six men armed with guns and machetes invaded the public school compound.

The raiders jumped over the waisthigh front gate that was manned by a single security guard as terrified pupils fled for safety.

The men, who were thought to be in search of a pupil, fired two shots at the back of the building, witnesses said.

They rushed back through the gate and invaded the exterior auditorium where students in the middle of exams took cover.

The invasion lasted little more than five minutes, but left pupils and teachers traumatised.

At the time school officials asked the Government to increase security at the facility and they were assigned an additional two guards to the six that were already stationed.

But a promise to provide an increased police presence faded quickly, Persaud said.

A year and a half later and a similar incident has left staff again

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 Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

Government officials and principal Gerald Persaud (right) inside the school compound on Monday morning

clearing of shrubs from behind the building.

“I just want all the parents in general to know that we are concerned about the children’s education and their safety,” Persaud said.

Opposition members speak out on violence at the school

desperate for Government help.

STRIKE ACTION On Monday at 8.15am 66 of the school’s 69 teachers gathered in the compound and refused to return to work until their concerns were heard.

Meanwhile students gathered in groups or wandered around the facility unsupervised.

By 10am a number of officials arrived at the school to talk to staff including Minister of Education and Deputy Premier Akierra Missick, Permanent Secretary of Education Cheryl Ann Jones and Director of Education Edgar Howell.

They spent close to three hours with Principal Gerald Persaud and the teachers as they spoke about issues of concern.

“It was a very fruitful meeting, a lot of good things came out of it,” Persaud said.

He explained that one of the main issues that the teachers raised was a lack of security at the school in terms of technology, environment, security staff and police presence.

Other internal issues discussed included the delayed expulsion of students who repeatedly cause trouble.

At 1.30am the principal and Government officials then attended a meeting with Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar, acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Wayne Jones and Premier Rufus Ewing at the Office of the Premier on Leeward

Highway.

Persaud said that he raised some concerns such as gang violence with the Commissioner who agreed to work with the police force to address them.

“They’re going to deal with it internally and see how best they can work with it in the communities – obviously that’s where it started before it trickled down here to the school,” the principal explained.

Persaud added that the police gave their assurance of greater assistance and a permanent presence at the school.

In a statement to the Weekly News on Tuesday, Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar explained the position of the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force (RTCIPF).

“Student behaviour is everyone’s responsibility, including the students,” he said. “This is a community and a whole of Government responsibility.

“The RTCIPF will continue to work closely with Government departments, parents, and teachers, to ensure that students are in a safe, learning environment.”

He added that a there will be police presence at the school when necessary however he contradicted the principal in saying that this will not be permanent.

Following the meeting it was agreed that teachers would remain off school until Thursday to allow for work to take place, including the

GOVERNMENT RESPONSE In a statement to press on Monday afternoon, Akierra Missick, Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, spoke about the teachers’ strike.

She said issues that were raised by the parents, teachers and students are also of major concern to the ministry and the Government.

“The safety of our teachers and students alike at the Clement Howell High School is paramount,” she stressed.

“We are taking specific measures to address those concerns in the short term while we continue to work on finding a permanent solution in the near future.”

She said that during the time that the teachers were off school this week an action plan that was devised on Monday would be put in place.

The statement continued: “The Government remains concerned about the overcrowding at the institution, and the resulting social issues that are arising and is committed to resolving these issues for a safer environment and to improve productivity in the school.”

According to Government figures there are currently 934 pupils being educated at the school which was originally built for about 300 students.

Among the Government bodies involved in discussions this week were the Department of Education, the Department of Social Welfare, the Office of Public Service Management, Public Works Department, the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Premier.

During a post-Cabnet press conference on Thursday (February 27) Premier Rufus Ewing described the raid as “terrifying and violent”.

He said that during the meetings attendees discussed security concerns and talked about “beefing up surveillance and putting more continued 

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NEWS

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Crime leaps by 24 per cent POLICE recorded a massive leap in reported crime in 2013 with major areas of concern including burglaries, thefts and firearm related incidents.

A total of 3,337 crimes were recounted to police last year compared to 2,692 in 2012, and 2,857 in 2011.

However, despite the hike in crime detection rates remained consistent at 28 per cent in 2013 and 29 per cent in 2012.

The annual Crime Report was presented to press at the Providenciales Police Headquarters on Old Airport Road on Wednesday (February 26).

Present at the press conference were Assistant Superintendent Clifford Henry, Acting Superintendent Kendal Grant, Acting Deputy Commissioner Wayne Jones, Commissioner Colin Farquhar, Superintendent Darron Williams and Acting Superintendent Ira Baptiste.

Farquhar presented the report from the Joint Intelligence Unit (JIU) which analysed figures from January 1 to December 31, 2013.

“The JIU provides an analysis of the crimes to help our commanders to determine the most at risk areas for deployment of resources,” the Commissioner explained.

The report stated that in 2013 there were an average of nine crimes reported a day whereas in 2012 that figure was just seven.

The number of burglaries and aggravated burglaries increased from 802 to 867 - an average of two per day.

Robberies increased from 45 in 2012 to 79 in 2013 which adds up to a massive 76 per cent rise.

All except two of these robberies were committed in Providenciales, the others were in South Caicos and Grand Turk.

Weapons used during these attacks included 39 firearms, 18 knives, eight cutlasses, rocks, bottles and a rope.

About $42,753 in cash, $19,936 in property and nine vehicles were stolen during these incidents.

However police reported that all nine vehicles, $1,405 in cash and $680 in property was recovered.

Crimes involving possession of controlled drugs leapt from 63 in 2012 to 71 in 2013.

Acting Superintendent Ira Baptiste with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) said that drug related crime is becoming a serious problem.

“With drugs comes crime – people are stealing to get cash to fund their

High school violence ... continued from 

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man power on the ground”.

Ewing added that a major island-wide PTA meeting will take place soon to discuss issues such as gangs, and formulate strategies to address the problem.

OPPOSITION STANCE On Monday (February 24) outside the school as teachers staged a sit in Opposition Leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said the problem had three major solutions.

Firstly students that are repeatedly causing trouble should be suspended and put into alternative programmes.

“The good news is the Government actually has the names of the student that are repeatedly in trouble,” she told press.

But they should not be simply expelled she said, as lack of

education and no job will lead to a bigger problem for society - instead they should be found alternative placements.

Secondly security staff should be provided with the means of defending themselves and preventing future raids.

“The number of security is not an issue it’s just that they don’t have anything to fight back with or deter,” she said.

And finally fencing should be improved to secure the building and prevent items being passed in from outside the school. (RB) Are you a parent, teacher or student at Clement Howell High School? The Weekly News is looking for residents to give accounts of problems at the school. Names will be withheld if requested. Please email tcweeklynews@gmail. com for more information.

Police officials present the Crime Report for 2013

habit.”

He said that within the next few months a drugs squad will be formed to flush out all of the dealers in the TCI. Meanwhile firearms incidents increased by a huge 64 per cent from 85 in 2012 to 139 in 2013.

Chief Firearms Officer, Superintendent Darron Williams said that most of the firearms are illegal assault weapons such as AK47 assault rifles.

“These are weapons that are very deadly and they can cause a lot of damage, injuries and death.”

He appealed to the public to give any information they have on illegal weapons to the police.

“It is very important that we try our very best to get these illegal firearms off the streets,” Williams stressed.

Crimes against tourists, while still relatively low, saw the biggest rise last year, increasing from 23 in 2012 to 111 in 2013 or an astounding 383 per cent.

“There is some complacency so I always try to remind tourists that this is no different from Canada, the US, the UK,” Farquhar said.

“This is a low crime country, but people often think it’s no crime. But it’s just a matter of reminding the public to be diligent.”

In comparison crimes committed by tourists grew from one in 2012 to six in 2013.

There were large gaps in the crime report presented to press as the figures for a number of major crimes were not listed.

They include assault occasioning actual bodily harm, wounding, attempted burglary, theft, taking motor vehicles without authority, malicious damage to property, handling stolen goods, vehicle interference and murder.

APPALLING LACK OF RESOURCES The Providenciales police force has been sharing a single patrol vehicle for a number of months - and on occasion has had no vehicle available at all.

This has led to a plethora of difficulties in patrolling the island as well as responding to crime in a timely manner, the Commissioner admitted.

Acting Superintendent Kendal Grant, who is responsible for Providenciales, North Caicos and Middle Caicos, added that the vehicle situation “really hampered our strategies”.

“The general public needs to be aware and needs to understand our constraints which we work under here at the division.”

He said the force has had problems patrolling tourism areas and incident response times have also suffered.

New patrol vehicles – 18 Ford Explorers and one Ford Econoline van – are expected arrive within the month.

They will come complete with radios, decals, lights and sirens and will be ready for immediate use. A training programme will be provided for all authorised drivers.

“This will certainly improve our dire situation,” Farquhar said.

However he stressed that many of these vehicles will only replace vehicles that are decommissioned and more will be needed over the next few years.

PUBLIC HELP Assistant Superintendent Clifford Henry, who is responsible for Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos, said that most of the force’s challenges stem from people being unwilling to

report crime.

But he stressed that Crimestoppers is available online and on the phone as an anonymous avenue for reporting incidents.

“We as a police organisation are sending an olive branch out to you to assist us.”

He added that community officers are currently patrolling the various areas of the Islands in an effort to get to know residents.

“There is a thing of the past where people don’t trust the police, but we are there for you and there to assist you any way possible.”

Acting Superintendent Grant echoed Henry’s sentiments and said that people are often afraid to approach officers to give details of a crime.

“They must understand that it takes a partnership to combat crime.

It takes a community and police to work together.

“Crime is everybody’s business, and we need to take that approach in insuring that the TCI remains a safe community in which to invest, live, work for everyone.”

He suggested passing on information to a local pastor of a church and allowing them to transfer it to the police.

Farquhar said that the detection rate is very good but improvements can be made by introducing further training for officers and more public cooperation.

He added that the method of compilation of crime statistics will be updated and modified soon to enable it to become more thorough and less time consuming.

“This is a labour intensive process that will hopefully be replaced by a computer based software system over the next few months.”

The crime report is available in full at www.tcipolice.tc.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

TCI going green

LAST week FortisTCI announced plans to install solar panels and a wind turbine as part of a project to assess the viability of renewable energy.

If proved to be financially and technically workable, large scale commercial systems could be installed at the Providenciales plant in less than two years.

Minister of Government Support Services George Lightbourne lent his support to the plans and urged the company to commit to generating 50 per cent of is output from renewable sources within five years.

What are your thoughts? Do you think that renewable energy technology is suited to the Islands? What do you see are the benefits/drawbacks?

Dog and pony show

Is this not the same Fortis, headed by the same Eddington Powell, that told us a couple of years ago, that wind and solar were not practical here in the Turks and Caicos Islands?

As to the solar panels that are being tested, at 30KW, they are barely enough to power my house. Not much of a test.

I hope we all realise that this sudden interest in solar technology is just a dog and pony show so FortisTCI can say they are being proactive!

They will no doubt come up with their own internal study, saying it is not practical.

Remember, they still have to get a financial return on those massive diesel generators they installed a couple of years ago. Until they do, we can forget cheap power!

Am I sour on FortisTCI and their government approved ongoing rape and pillage of these islands?

Whatever you do, do not hook up solar panels to your own house, as Fortis might disconnect you from the grid and probably never hook you up again.

Thank you PNP and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office!

It’s our money

I think it is a laughing matter that Fortis decides to go green and does it with our money.

Long overdue

We have an abundance of sunshine here, so solar power would be ideal.

Persons tried and were not permitted to generate solar power previously. Excess energy would be fed back into FortisTCI’s grid.

I do not support windmills because they are extremely large, noisy and quite an eyesore.

This is definitely a step in the right direction for a change and it’s certainly long overdue.

Wonderful

This is wonderful. This should have been done many years before in all of the islands.

These are the natural things that God has given us. Let’s use it.

Two years too long

Assess the viability of renewable energy viability for two years?? Give me a break!

There are volumes of research on the viability sun and wind power already done.

This is a fairly simple calculation in any case based on the number and length of sunny and windy days.

There is no need to delay for two years. Let’s get moving now and tap into the abundance of sun and wind in the TCI.

Heading for bankruptcy

‘Green’ being the operative word. When will these proverbial ostriches ever get their heads out of the sand?

We are but a fledgling economy and shouldn’t be gambling on hoopla.

The capital cost is enormous. How would this be managed? More debt/taxes, price increases presumably.

These windmills are a ghastly carbuncle on the landscape and on Google Earth the TCI would probably become a giant window pane.

Anyone for tourism? Yet again we are in cloud cuckoo land. Bankruptcy here we come (if we ever had a bankruptcy law).

Face reality.

Careful of corporate greed

A renewable resource is a natural resource that can be replaced through biological or other natural processes and replenished after some time.

They are part of a natural environment but they are endangered by industrial developments and growth.

Solar radiation, biomass, tides, geothermal, and winds are examples of renewable resources.

Having examined what this resource is, it is conclusive that this would be the most cost effective resolution to the ridiculous prices we enjoy at the present output.

The only foreseeable drawbacks would be the space for windmills and solar panels, as they require space more than is available at the highway location and it would be a crying disgrace if this alternative is brought about and then the prices do not adequately reflect the cost reduction effect to the consumers.

Corporate greed is always a factor to be cafe full of.

Let us take part

Large scale commercial systems are one thing, but FortisTCI should develop a policy to allow individual customers to participate in netmetering.

There must be a business case for FortisTCI to be able to generate revenue through the sale and/or leasing of renewable energy infrastructure.

If other energy utilities throughout the world can successfully incorporate net-metering, surely FortisTCI is innovative enough to as well.

 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

Man in critical condition after shootout at local bar THREE men were wounded after a shootout at the Jamrock Bar in the Downtown area of Providenciales during the early hours of Monday (February 24).

According to police, the incident happened at about 3am during a party at the popular bar in Sammy Been Plaza.

Two people were involved in a fight and the situation escalated ending up in the shooting of firearms.

According to Diana Swann, public relations officer for Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, two people were released from the hospital following the

incident.

One was released on Monday (February 24) from the hospital, another on Wednesday (February 26) while third man remained in critical condition until press time.

Police press officer Audley Astwood told the Weekly News that there is one suspect and police are working on other leads.

Anyone with information can call Crimestoppers on 1-8008477 or use the Crimestoppers online reporting page www. crimestoppers.tc.

Information will be treated in the strictest of confidence. (DH)

Roops winners of cheerleading comp Roops walked off as 2014 cheerleading champs after a vigorous battle between Simpson, Wards and Witheys during the cheerleading

competition at Enid Capron Primary School on Thursday (February 27).

The event saw guest judges from the Clement Howell High School

and Lime TCI. In attendance was also the Minister of Education, Akierra Missick.

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Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles is the new AG FIRST on the agenda for newly appointed Attorney General of the TCI, Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles is law reform and training for lawyers attached to the chamber.

Governor, Peter Beckingham on Monday (February 24) appointed Braithwaite-Knowles to the post.

She is the first Turks and Caicos Islander to hold the position, which she has been acting in since October 2013.

Former Attorney General, Huw Shepheard handed in his resignation on October 31 and BraithwaiteKnowles was selected as the most suitable and qualified for the position.

She was chosen from among 26 other candidates from Europe, North America and the Caribbean – four of whom were shortlisted to be interviewed.

The recruitment panel appointed by the Governor was included Deputy Governor, Anya Williams, Attorney General of the Cayman Islands, Samuel Bulgin, Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Dr Beatrice Fulford, TCI Director of Human Resources, Mark Greenway and Patrick Boyle from the Governor’s Office.

During an interview with the Weekly News on Monday afternoon, the new AG said the post is one to which she aspired since the beginning of her law profession.

“I am particularly proud… that it was a merit based appointment. It was not just that I am from Turks and Caicos Islands.

“It is an important position; one with quite a lot of responsibilities and I intend to carry out those responsibilities in a professional, fair and unbiased way.”

Braithwaite-Knowles said this is nothing new she has always carried out her duties in this manner.

Governor, Peter Beckingham – who was also interviewed by this publication - said he is very pleased with the appointment.

“She won the position in an open competition which was against people from the Caribbean, North America and Europe and she was regarded as the outstanding candidate; the best of the group. She won it on merit.”

The Governor said the TCI can be proud and happy that one of their own has gotten the top job in the legal profession of the country.

TCI is one of the few overseas territories with an Attorney General who is a local appointee. Montserrat is another, while Bermuda’s AG is elected to serve.

“This is an important step politically; not only politically but historically for the Turks and Caicos,” Governor Beckingham said.

WORK PLAN Braithwaite-Knowles said she would

be developing a work plan setting out various areas of law reform that she has particular interest in.

Among these is the reform of the regulation of the bar for the legal fraternity in the Legal Profession Ordinance.

“There is a draft bill to reform that ordinance as well as the regulations that has been prepared in consultation with the bar and with the Chief Justice. So that is something which I would want to bring to a conclusion shortly.”

She intends to address insolvency law in the TCI, of which there is none and which she believes needs to be in place.

Copyright legislation and legislation in relation to the law of evidence are some other areas that will be reformed during her tenure.

“Beyond that I think I want to focus on training. I have already started a programme of training for attorneys in the chambers.

“There are training opportunities available within the public service and outside that I would like to take advantage of for the Attorney General’s Chambers and for the departments that make up the Lands Division.”

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS Asked about the position being taken with the summons brought by Premier Rufus Ewing against the AG Chambers while Shepheard served as AG, the new appointee said they have no choice but to defend it.

She said any litigation brought against the Government is something that the Attorney General is obligated to defend under the Crown Proceedings Ordinance.

The Chief Justice is now considering an application to strike out Ewing’s originating summons filed while Braithwaite-Knowles was acting AG. “It is unfortunate that it had have litigation over the issue at the heart of that matter, and I hope personally that we can avoid having to go to litigation on such matters in the future,” the AG said.

The former AG’s claim that the Government damaged his reputation is a matter that is also is in trade, Braithwaite-Knowles told the Weekly News.

The Government’s position and response to his claim have been communicated to his attorney, she said.

“We were hopeful that we would receive a response, but we haven’t.

So we are going to continue with those negotiations with a view to avoiding litigation and to arriving at a settlement sooner rather than later.’

Huw Shepheard is suing the TCIG for more than a million dollars for loss of income and damages to his reputation suffered because of alleged attacks on him by the Government and the TCI community.

The new AG pointed out that in this instance too, the matter is beyond the Chamber’s control.

“We can with the best intention, put forward a response on what we think is reasonable. I think the Government’s response was reasonable to his claim, but we have not been able to secure a settlement as yet.”

The AG said they have been working very hard to reach a settlement before the end of this financial year in April; but added that definitely before the end of 2014 they should be able to settle the matter.

“But as I said, the response that has been received; we haven’t moved very far in terms of the former Attorney General’s position on his claim and that is unfortunate.”

CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW The issue of the 2011 Constitution in relation to working with it as it now stands has been one that has engaged the Government and the Opposition in the past months.

It is also one of the many things that caused friction between the current administration and the former AG. As such, the Government and the Opposition are in the process of appointing a committee to carry out a review of the constitution.

Asked what her policy is on

Newly appointed Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles and Governor Peter Beckingham

the intended review and what she intends to do as Attorney General who is supposed to be guided by the instrument, BraithwaiteKnowles said her position is that the constitution is the constitution and for her purposes, she has to look at and be guided by it as it stands.

“The 2011 Constitution is the primary law of the land – so all of the decisions and the advice that I gave have to be in accordance with that document.

“I think no constitution; no document, is 100 per cent perfect but the constitution that we have is as a result of consultation with and the involvement of a broad range of stakeholders from across the TCI and so I think it is something we haven’t

Under the tree

had a lot of time to work with and to work out.”

The AG said there is merit in giving a document like that sufficient time to work through, to become familiar with and to use.

“Every time I look at it I discover something new. What I encourage and say to people is read the constitution.

“If you are going to play a game you have to read the rules so you know the rules of the game and what you’re supposed to do and also what the other guy is supposed to be doing,” she advised.

She said the document is no mystery; but that many people just continued 

By Benneth Williams

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March 1 - 7, 2014

Island Fish Fry will not move yet

TCI’s weekly food and music extravaganza, the Island Fish Fry, will remain at the same location for now despite demands to move it.

Premier Rufus Ewing insisted this week that the Children’s Park in the Bight will be the home of the popular Thursday night event for the foreseeable future.

The promise came after an angry letter from Kathleen Wood, the Director of the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA), was leaked to press last week.

In it she claimed that the Tourist Board-hosted event was ruining the local environment with excessively loud noise, grease dumping, and litter.

She also said that they had not come up with a large portion of the rent payments for the land since the event began in January 2013 – leaving them close to $20,000 in arrears.

“DEMA recognises that the Fish Fry event is an exceptional tourism venue and we applaud the Tourist Board for devising this very successful and important cultural event,” she wrote in the letter to Director of the Tourist Board Ralph Higgs.

“However, the event is inconsistent with the vision for the Bight Park, which was developed to be open to the public during only daylight hours, and for quiet, ecotourism-based activities.”

In the letter dated February 3 she went on to demand that the Tourist Board immediately seek a new home for the Fish Fry and vacate the park by next week, March 5.

On Tuesday (February 25) Premier Rufus Ewing, who is also Minister of Tourism, sent a statement to press in which he insisted that the cultural event will not move.

He admitted that a letter had been sent to the Tourist Board and it followed a number of internal disputes which have since been resolved.

The Premier said that during discussions with the two Government bodies on February 3, the Ministry of Tourism made it clear that no changes to the location would be made.

“The Fish Fry is a part of who we are, it is a national event to the benefit of all,” Ewing said.

“While the ministry will work with the Tourist Board to ensure that all commitments are met, the Fish Fry will remain at the Children’s Park in the Bight, until we have found the suitable location for its permanent positioning, - one that will benefit the small and medium businesses that are associated with the hospitality industry.”

DEMA LETTER In her letter to the Tourist Board leaked last week Wood said that it was time to reflect on the agreement between the two Government bodies.

She explained that in December 2012, DEMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourist Board to allow them to hold the Fish Fry at the Bight Park on Thursday evenings.

There were four main conditions,

The Thursday night event attracts hundreds of visitors every week

the first which stated that the sound system must be facing the sea and volume regulated in order not to disturb the public and nearby houses and hotels.

The second was to maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the portion of the park used for the event.

The third was to pay the required users’ fee of $200 per event and an additional fee of $200 per event to cover the cost of electricity and water.

And finally to ensure that all garbage generated from the event is properly removed immediately after the event.

“DEMA continues to get regular complaints about noise from the surrounding businesses and residences, as far away from the event as Blue Mountain,” Wood wrote.

“I have attended the event myself on a couple of occasions and have noted that the speakers are not turned towards the sea, as recommended above.

“Furthermore, the sound level is unnecessarily deafening. In fact, the music is so loud that it is almost impossible to carry on a conversation at the event.”

The DEMA Director went on to stress that this level of noise is unacceptable and breaches both the park rules and terms of the MoU. Wood said that a weekly inspection of the park and surrounding area revealed a lot of litter being discarded and not recovered by the Tourist Board’s cleaning crews.

“While some trash is removed from the immediate parking lot area, other debris is left in vegetation and along roadsides, often extending along the Lower Bight Road and up Pratts Road.

“Furthermore, as you are aware, vendors are dumping charcoal and cooking oil into vegetated areas, which damages vegetation and leaves a foul odour.”

Another huge problem is the underpayment of users’ fees for the event, and while DEMA has received $2,000, a massive $19,000 for 48 weeks has not been received.

“The economic and physical cost to DEMA, the Bight Park and surrounding communities has also been unacceptably high.

“As such, we cannot continue to compromise the welfare of the park and the community at large for the sake of one event.”

TOURIST BOARD RESPONDS On Thursday Ralph Higgs told the

Weekly News that the Tourist Board is continuing to work with DEMA to address issues of concern.

“We’ve always endeavoured

to live up to our agreement with DEMA and as far as we’re concerned this situation has been addressed and we are looking forward to many more Fish Fries.”

He added that a number of locations for a permanent home for the event are being examined and insisted that they will be “very accessible to the visitors and residents alike”.

“We’re working to locate a suitable site for the future home of the Fish Fry and I think it’s an event that our residents and our tourists enjoy so we have to continue to work to make it pleasing for everyone involved.”

He said he could not comment on when the move will take place.

The issue of loud noise will be addressed with a “little more vigour,” Higgs said, and added that his cleaning teams continue to do a good job.

However he urged the public to also play a part in keeping the area clean throughout the week.

The Director went on to say that the Tourist Board has an “understanding” with DEMA with regard to users’ fees which it will live up to.

“We’re friends, we’re colleagues, we work towards the same objective, and sometimes there may be misunderstandings.

“It’s unfortunate when this plays out in the public, but we’re partners working towards the same end.”

(RB)

Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles is ... continued from 

7

do not read it.

“They hear a comment about it and so they pick those comments up and run with them.”

She said each resident - TC Islanders or anyone living in the TCI - has to make it their business to read the constitution and understand what it is saying and what it means to them as an individual.

“It is the rule book, so until and unless it is changed we have to follow it,” she added.

MORE LOCAL APPOINTMENTS Meanwhile, many persons in the local community, most recently President of the Bar Association George Missick, have been calling for more locals to be appointed to high-level positions in the TCI. Asked if the country can expect to see this in the near future, the Governor said he hoped so.

“I think the way it is being done is very important. Rhondalee was the best person [for AG].

“Obviously it depends a little bit on the nature of the job but I certainly hope to see more local people coming through to the more senior jobs.”

He reminded that within the public sector, many locals hold supervisory and managerial positions.

However, he said he has spoken with the Premier about ways in which they can encourage and stimulate more “home-grown” talent.

“And he is very keen on it, so I am very keen on it.”

Braithwaite-Knowles also pointed to the high statistical figure of locals in the public service when compared to foreigners.

“It is something that we

have seen; more Turks and Caicos Islanders [have] emerged into the more senior positions over the course of time that I have been in Government… and I think that TC Islanders should be proud of the fact that more often than not we have locals at the top of the departments and agencies of Government.”

However, Governor Beckingham cautioned that people from other minority groups should also be represented.

“So I would like to see Haitians represented in jobs, those from the Dominican Republic, those who are disabled and women.

“So people who haven’t had as many jobs as with their representational numbers, we would expect. So this will be a balanced thing,” he said.

EDUCATION Braithwaite-Knowles holds a bachelor of law degree from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, in Barbados. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in History and in Government.

She sat for her certificate of legal education at the Eugene Dupuch Law School in the Bahamas. She is also qualified in legislative drafting.

“I joined the AG Chambers in 2000 as a Crown Counsel, its most junior position in the Chambers and then I was promoted to Senior Crown Counsel in 2004,” she said.

She added that at that time the practice was for local persons to be done after five years, so her promotion – like her most recent one - was done on merit based on performance.

“And it was unprecedented at that time, and then in 2006 I was promoted to principle Crown Counsel, which is a head of a division within the Chamber. I was responsible at that time for the commercial division.”

Her responsibilities in that division included supervising development agreements, development orders,

leases, licenses, and other commercial agreements.

“In 2008 I was promoted to Deputy Attorney General and it was the first local Deputy Attorney General.

“It has been a sort of accelerated course in a way but it really has been as a result of quite a lot of very hard work, late nights and long days and dedication,” the AG said.

She extends thanks to Governor Beckingham for his confidence in her; “It’s been encouraging, because the role is a very demanding and challenging one.”

She said even when they have disagreed on issues – in a purely professional and unbiased way he has been willing to accept that advice and act on it, and this has been refreshing to her.

“So I would like to thank him for the vote of confidence that he has placed in me in doing that.”

It has been a challenging five months, she added.

“I would also like to thank my husband and my son for the level of support that I have enjoyed from them. I think they must be on a list for sainthood or something to be able to give up quite a lot time and to be still supportive and not complain in respect to the very long hours and days in the office.”

“That is my personal team,” the beaming AG said.

Finally, she extended thanks to the Attorneys in the Chambers for their professionalism.

She noted that they have been able to accomplish a lot in last several years in terms of being able to meet the challenges as they come.

However, she said this is only because of the dedication and hard work of those individuals that any Attorney General or any person acting in that role would be able to be successful. (DI)

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cabinet approves draft budget and other major projects ON WEDNESDAY (February 26) Governor Peter Beckingham chaired the meeting of Cabinet at the House of Assembly Building on Grand Turk with all Government ministers in attendance.

A post Cabinet update from the Governor’s press office on Thursday outlined the issues discussed and the decisions taken by the Governor and ministers.

Below is a list of the items discussed and approved.

Approval was given to the draft 2014/15 budget and for it to be submitted to the Secretary of State for approval.

Cabinet also gave its approval for a Provisional Warrant 2014 for $63,648,694 in respect of the recurrent expenditure of the islands for part of the fiscal year 2014. This will now proceed to the House of Assembly for endorsement.

The wording of the Supplementary Appropriation Bill for Financial Year 2012/13 was also approved and will be submitted to the House of Assembly.

Approval was also given for a Turks and Caicos Islands stamp in honour of James Alexander George Smith McCartney, the first Chief Minister and national hero of the TCI. Additionally, the Governor was advised to grant approval for the mutation of Parcels 60706/104 PT and 60706/16 to create two lots and to grant a 25 year lease over 0.27 acres to the National Trust for the purpose of the management of the Cheshire Hall plantation.

This will be done at a rent of $10 per annum.

He was also advised to grant 25 year leases to the National Trust over Wades Green Plantation (Parcels 50301/61, 50301/62, 50301/63 and 50304/4), in North Caicos at a rent of $10 per annum.

The granting of leases are conditional on the National Trust submitting to TCIG for approval: an infrastructure development plan, a business plan and a site management plan for the development of the visitor experience at the Cheshire Hall Plantation.

Governor Beckingham was further advised to approve in principle the grant of a 25-year lease over Crown land parcel 60809/103 to Mills Institute.

This is for the expansion of the learning institution currently located on an adjacent parcel - 60808/104 subject to the terms and conditions of the Crown Land Ordinance 2012 and the filing of a planning application by the Institute.

He was also advised to endorse the proposed development of a national television network by ACL from Providenciales through North, Middle and South Caicos to Grand Turk and Salt Cay. In addition, he was advised to approve a license over a portion of Parcel 20207/31, consisting of 0.18 of an acre for the construction and operation of telecommunications

equipment building and transmission tower.

The Premier and ministers also advised the Governor to approve the drafting of regulations to the Electronic Transactions Ordinance.

The primary purpose of the proposed legislation is to create regulations to give effect to the provisions of the Electronic Transactions Ordinance, particularly in relation to regulations to prescribe the criteria for the issuance of an accredited certificate.

They also advised the Governor to amend the Hotel and Restaurant (Taxation) Ordinance CAP 10.09 (2009) to establish a registration threshold of $150,000 based on annual turnover.

This amendment is set to be implemented from April 1, 2014.

Cabinet agreed that a policy should be developed and immediately implemented that requires all uninsured freight vessels entering TCI territorial waters to pay a cash bond via the responsible agent in accordance with Ports Authority Regulation 15.

The measure is being introduced to protect the economic and environmental interests of TCI. Advice was also given to the Governor for the revision of the Fisheries Protection Ordinance to change and improve regulation of the traditional turtle fishery in TCI waters.

Also, for amendment to be made to the Fisheries Protection Regulations to allow for the export of queen conch (strombus gigas) shells, jewellery, pearls and crafts during the closed season (July 15 October 15).

Governor Beckingham was further advised to amend the Electricity Ordinance to effect measures to ensure only licenced electricians can perform electrical works in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Cabinet also considered a proposal to permanently retain daylight saving time when the clocks go forward in the spring and agreed that the matter be the subject of public consultation later in the year.

NEWS

‘No fossil fuels by 2024’ – Minister demands FortisTCI goes green “IT IS critically important that the Turks and Caicos Islands emulates our Caribbean neighbours, or risks being literally left in the dark.”

Those were the damning words of George Lightbourne, Minister of Government Support Services, in a statement to press on the urgency of reducing fossil fuel dependency.

In it he urged the country’s only power provider FortisTCI to commit to generating 50 per cent of its output from renewable energy in five years and 60 to 100 per cent within ten years.

This is a huge hike from last September when he asked the company to commit to a 20 per cent reduction in the use of fossil fuels.

“Fortis has claimed on many occasions that renewables are not commercially or financially viable, that it is not scalable and cannot be smoothly integrated into their grid system,” he said.

“None of this is true and countries as large as Denmark have integrated local demand systems fully into their grid nationwide resulting in huge savings and massive reduction in carbon emissions.”

This month FortisTCI announced plans to install solar panels and a wind turbine as part of a project to assess the viability of renewable energy.

If proved to be financially and technically workable, large scale commercial systems could be installed at the Providenciales plant in less than two years.

But while he supports the plans Lightbourne said a much bigger effort is needed to introduce renewable power production.

“FortisTCI has an obligation to provide reliable electricity to its customers - it is now clear and unequivocally proven that only renewable energy can meet this obligation now and in the future.”

He revealed that the company benefits from the highest allowable profit return of 17.5 per cent - more than double that of most of their other operations.

George Lightbourne, Minister of Government Support Services, stressed the urgency of reducing fossil fuel dependency

“Whilst we have an obligation to work with FortisTCI, we have a far greater obligation to our people, the very same people that believed in us, trusted us and voted for us.”

Two weeks ago Govenernment officials took a major step towards embracing renewable energy when they signed an agreement with an international carbon reduction organisation.

Co-founded by billionaire business mogul Richard Branson, Carbon War Room encourages countries to adopt business solutions that will create a low-carbon economy.

“The recent conference offered great enlightenment and hope for the TCI delegation …we quickly realised that change is inevitable,” Lightbourne said.

“That change is all around us, and more and more importantly, we are not alone in the fight for reliable, secure, cheap and clean electrical supply for our people.”

He explained that along with the Carbon War Room, others have reached out to offer support to the TCI including world leading scientists, private equity investors, global banking institutions and other Caribbean governments.

They could help to the country to develop a more sustainable energy programme and more reasonable licencing agreements with FortisTCI, he said.

“We must embrace these offers of support and move towards a more

streamlined, more productive and more economically viable, carbon free economy.

“The alternative is to do nothing, deny our people and continue to stick our heads in the sand and complain every time we get a light bill whilst our neighbours and regional competitors thrive and continue to benefit financially, environmentally and otherwise, leaving us far behind.”

He added that the Carbon War Room team will be invited to the TCI at the earliest opportunity to explore further avenues and opportunities.

These were the words of Premier Rufus Ewing one day after the Wednesday (February 12) Cabinet meeting whereby the body considered a draft Energy Policy which has been in development for some time now, and is a legacy of the interim administration.

Cabinet also considered the establishment of an Energy Council.

Earlier this month Cabinet considered a draft Energy Policy which has been in development for some time now, and is a legacy of the interim administration. Members also considered the establishment of an Energy Council.

Premier Rufus Ewing noted that the overarching objective of the policy is to reduce the cost of electricity and to improve energy security and environmental sustainability.

FortisTCI operates exclusive, fully integrated utility systems for the generation and retail and distribution of energy to virtually all of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The company serves the Islands of Providenciales, North Caicos, and Middle Caicos under a 50-year licence which expires in 2037, on South Caicos under a 50-year licence that runs through to 2036, and on Grand Turk and Salt Cay under a 50year licence that expires in 2036.

The company’s franchise area includes the cays between Providenciales and North Caicos (except Parrot Cay), and East Caicos and adjacent cays and inlets under two 25-year licences granted in March 2012.

FortisTCI were unavailable for comment up to press time. (RB)

PDM cautions that renewable energy is ‘far off' THE OPPOSITION party believes that the total conversion to renewable energy is still a far way off for the Turks and Caicos Islands even as it commends FortisTCI for the recently announced steps towards green power.

PDM leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson recently told the media that while the party sees renewable energy as a wonderful thing, its position is that something needs to be done now to reduce the cost of electricity.

She commended the Government on signing the TCI on as one of ten countries to cut reliance on fossil fuels as part of Sir Richard

9

Branson’s project with the Carbon War Foundation.

“Renewable energy is still untested; we don’t know how much it will be able to replace fossil fuel or whether it will be more costly or what,” the party leader said.

She added that the people of the country continue to pay heavy energy bills while waiting for FortisTCI’s pilot project on renewable energy to be completed.

“So we are saying, look at what you can address now. We are not saying don’t look at it, but right now look at fuel, look at perhaps how we can barge fuel directly into the

country as opposed to paying duty in the Bahamas and then trucking it over. Look at a trans-shipment port.”

She said these are tangible things that the party sees as having more benefits to the country.

On February 19 the utility company announced its intentions to position the TCI to benefit more from environmentally friendly power production.

As announced in a media statement, these plans include the installation of solar panels and a wind turbine.

This, the company said, will assess the viability of renewable

energy, and if proved financially and technically workable, large scale commercial systems could be installed at the plant in less than two years.

During the energy summit in the British Virgin Islands earlier this month, TCI Governor Peter Beckingham indicated that he is aware that converting some of TCI’s current 100 per cent dependency on fossil fuel will be challenging.

But he signalled the country’s intention to work closely with FortisTCI to see how their initial plans for solar and wind power can be built on. (DI)

10 NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Tribute to a much loved woman of the soil A BELOVED member of one of TCI’s most recognised families, Vanderlene ‘Titter’ Gardiner, passed away last Friday (February 21) aged 72.

The mother of six from North Caicos will be remembered as caring, confident and loving - and sorely missed by all who knew her.

In a public statement on Monday (February 24) Premier Rufus Ewing offered his sincere condolences to her family and friends.

“Mrs Gardiner was the mother to many, and raised great men and women of our society today,” he said.

“We especially remember the Gardiner and Misick families and all others who are left to mourn her.

“May God continue to be your source of strength in this your hour of bereavement.”

Runica Vanderlene Gardiner was born in the settlement of Bottle Creek, North Caicos, to the late Charles Misick and Mary Jane Misick.

She was the eldest of 14 children, and came from a very humble and religious family.

As was customary of families in those days she was responsible for caring for her younger siblings while her parents went off to work to support the family, daughter Claudette Gibson wrote in a tribute.

This responsibility at an early age helped her to develop a personality of caring, independence and authority.

Some of her most recognised siblings include Minister of Finance Washington Misick, former Premier Mike Misick, senior lawyer Ariel Misick QC, attorney Chal Misick and real estate executive Philip Misick.

Vanderlene grew into a beautiful young woman, and married at the tender age of 17. This union with her husband gave her six children and soon after her last child was born, she was put to the ultimate test of raising them as a single mother.

Claudette explained: “She was not the kind of person to give in or give up. She started her day daily with devotion and payers, asking God to help her and protect her children.

“Life road ahead was a difficult one for her, but she was determine to give her children the best even if it meant that she had to make the many sacrifices of her not having much for herself.”

Vanderlene would not entertain the thought of remarrying; always saying that no one would come between her and her children.

She refused to accept the many opportunities to go abroad to earn better wages, always saying that she would never leave her children for anyone else to care for.

Jobs were few and her education was limited, but that was a small challenge to her, because she was determined to make a better life for herself and her children.

This was seen in her accepting and performing jobs with the road works programme and private construction workers, performing sometime extremely heavy tasks to provide for her children.

She embraced any opportunity of earn an honest living, and when the opportunity came to her to become a janitor at the school in her community, she accepted this job and worked it (along with other jobs that became available) from the early 1970 until she retired in 2008.

Claudette enthused: “Being independent and determined were her best attributes. She did not allow herself to be pitied. She was very proud of herself and her children.”

Among her many jobs she worked as a ticket agent with the local airline at that time and also worked as a chef at the Prospect of Whitby for many years.

It was at this hotel that she discovered her skills and passion for cooking and ever since had many locals and visitors alike return for her special island food.

Vanderlene owned and managed her own restaurant ‘Club Titters’ up until a few years ago, when her

Vanderlene ‘Titter’ Gardiner will be sadly missed

health began to fail and she was unable to continue.

“As her family and friends mourn her passing she will always be remembered as the very confident single mother, who with God’s help raised and educated six children,” Claudette said.

Her passion for family and helping others saw her adopting two other children and being very involved in raising her grandchildren.

Vanderlene’s faith and trust in Christ instilled in her as a child enshrouded her throughout her life, as she refused to become a victim of the unfortunate obstacles that often

fell in her way.

“She kept focus on making sacrifices and providing the best for the ones she loved,” Claudette wrote, “often neglecting herself because she knew that she would enjoy the ultimate rewards of hearing well done thou good and faithful servant enter into the joy of the Lord.”

The funeral service for Vanderlene will be held on Saturday, March 8, at 10am at the Raymond Gardiner High School sports ground in Bottle Creek, North Caicos.

She will be laid to rest at the family burial ground in Windsor, Bottle Creek. (RB)

COMMENTARY

Something from nothing IN MANKIND’S history God motivates individuals to provide a better life for their fellow man either by creating products from nothing except sun and soil, or managing societies resources.

The life history of agricultural biochemist George Washington Carver is one case in point.

The humble genius, Carver, spent his life at Tuskegee Institute. He was an orphan who sought a formal education and who found happiness in his life developing agricultural based products.

Carver discovered how plastics and fuel could be refined from the lowly soybean and peanut. Thousands of products from the sources of soil and sun are Carver’s fabulous legacy.

Politicians do not create

products. Their job is to allocate the wealth of the country to educate, protect and insure the health and welfare of the population who selects them through the process of elections.

In a democracy the majority usually rules.

When the administration of those elected is flawed, wealth is pocketed and/or wasted and that is called corruption and mismanagement.

Currently the yearly taxes collected from the TCI’s people and visitors amounts to nearly $7,000 for every man woman and child living here.

A man and wife and their two children have over $27,000 spent by the Government on their behalf every year.

When that money ends up in a politician’s limo, plane, mansion or his or her unnecessary ministerial

SPACE IS LIMITED!

travel at the obvious expense of education, protection or healthcare, something is haywire.

Unfortunately education, protection and healthcare has been going backwards since 2003.

However residents and our valued visitors now pay much higher taxes.

The decisions of 44 per cent of the voters, not the majority, who do not seem to understand the process, selected the same party who messed up allocating resources time and again.

We remain hundreds of millions of dollars in debt. To work our way out that TCI family of four needs to donate an extra $26,000 for one year to bail out only one of our debts.

They will also have to donate an additional $8,000 every year for the next 20 just to support questionable healthcare which is not even

By David Tapfer

David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011

available to many.

Of course the family cannot pay so they will have to give up the value of those thousands in education, protection and real healthcare for years to come.

Our families do have to pay dearly - hard cash every month for electricity or always live in the dark.

TCI does not have a Carver available to them today to discover

God’s products of sun and soil but we were moving forward 10 and a half years ago under humble political leadership.

That same political party of the people is prepared to start to repair the tremendous damage as they did after 1995.

Repair the damage of those who created nothing from something!

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

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

Poverty reduction seen between 1999 and 2008 but increased by 2012

A STUDY to gauge the level of poverty in the TCI has found that the number of poor people in the Turks and Caicos Islands increased from 2008 to 2012 due to a high level of population growth.

The Country Poverty Assessment (CPA) survey started in late 2012 and was completed in July 2013.

The preliminary findings were on Wednesday (February 26) presented to the members of Cabinet by the National Assessment Team.

The study was an undertaking of the National Assessment Team (NAT), which included members of the Government and nongovernment organisations and a team of consultants appointed by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

On Thursday (February 27) CDB operations officer and social analyst, MacDonald Thomas, along with Joe Wood, senior consultant for socioeconomic and urban planning with the Halcrow Group presented the draft report to the media ahead of public meetings to be held across the TCI during which they will be discussing the report’s findings.

Its primary objectives were to identify the extent, characteristics and causes of poverty in TCI, evaluate the effectiveness of current policies and programmes in terms of their impact on the poor and vulnerable groups of the population and make recommendations for future policies and programmes to reduce poverty.

The data was compiled from a sample of 630 households across the TCI.

1999 because of the rapid expansion of the economy between 1999 and 2008.

However, in 2012, around 22 per cent of the population and 16 per cent of households were living in poverty, compared to 26 per cent and 18 per cent in 1999.

It posits that the percentage of poverty stricken is likely to have decreased between 1999 and 2008 and then increased due to the economic crisis.

However, the number of poor people in TCI in 2012 is much higher than it was due to the high level of population growth since 1999.

The report finds that 3,900 people were poor in 1999 compared with around 6,800 by the end of the survey.

It further noted that although no households appears indigent, a small proportion of the population is likely to be experiencing severe poverty as evidenced by other data such as demand for social welfare, responses to questions on food security, and the level of food expenditure.

According to the report, 60 per cent of households are currently having problems paying for at least one essential household expense such as utilities (46 per cent), food (29 per cent), housing (26 per cent), and transportation (23 per cent).

When analysed, the proportion of households under moderate or severe financial stress ranges from 16 to 30 per cent, the survey found.

The implication, the report said, is that the economic crisis has affected a much greater proportion of the population than the statistically poor.

It notes that poverty rates for large households (five or more) are very high, 36 per cent, which is about double the rate for two to four person households.

Poverty in single person households is very low at five per cent.

The study also found that while large households account for a quarter of all poor households and 44 per cent of the entire poor population, they represent no more than four per cent of all households.

The report also states that poverty amongst the Haitian population is 35 per cent, which is much higher than the national average of 22 per cent.

It also finds that the poverty rate for the Belonger population is 18 per cent; slightly below the national average.

However, among all other nonBelonger groups apart from Haitians, poverty is much lower.

In consequence, Haitians account for over half (56 per cent) of the poor population with Belongers accounting for a third.

When compared to 1999, poverty rates for all groups have decreased apart from the Haitians community, where there has been little change.

The study finds that poverty is highest on the three Caicos Islands with poverty rates in excess of 40 per cent of the population.

Poverty in these islands reflects the lack of employment opportunities, the greater presence of elderly persons and, on North Caicos, a substantial Haitian presence (over half the population).

Extent of poverty in TCI in 2012 The report found that the level of poverty in the TCI, notwithstanding the economic problems of the last few years, is lower than it was in

Characteristics of poverty in TCI in 2012 There are strong correlations between poverty in TCI and household size, nationality and location, the report says.

Deceased Haitians sent home for burial

Sotheby Realty to raise funds for youth centre REALTY company Sotheby International is hosting its second annual ‘What U Do’ fundraising event soon to raise funds for the Edward Gartland Youth Centre.

Opus restaurant on Providenciales will light up on Monday (March 24) at 7pm, with great food, music and people.

This year’s event will feature Joe Zahn Band with Max Claire along with special performances

by Ben Arnold, Pete Donnelly, Scott Bricklin and David Bowen.

Last year the inaugural Joe Zahn Band fundraiser was also held at Opus to raise funds for

the youth centre and a significant amount of money was raised.

The event catered to 150 people, so this year organisers are aiming to target at least 200 people to increase donations made to the centre.

Tickets will be sold at $60 per person and will include a Joe Zahn Band Revue CD, hot and cold butler served appetisers and a welcome specialty drink.

For tickets for this event are available to purchase at Opus or by calling Takera at Sotheby’s International Realty on 9464474. (DH)

THE SEVENTEEN Haitians who drowned on Christmas Day were on Thursday (February 27) afternoon transported to their motherland to be laid to rest by their friends and families.

Haitian Consul Karlo Pellissier told the Weekly News that over the past week that the consulate has been able to make the arrangements to have the deceased repatriated.

As published in other sections of the media, there were some difficulties with getting adequate financing to send the deceased home, but the consul said that he has managed to get the financial support he needed to get this done.

“We have already signed a contract with Corey’s Funeral Chapel; he is going to prepare the bodies and he tells me by the end of this week - Thursday - the bodies will be sent back to Haiti.”

Consultant at the consulate in the TCI, Donald Metellus on Thursday

In spite of this, poverty in the family islands is lower than it was in 1999.

In Grand Turk, poverty is also above average (33 per cent) but it is much lower than on Providenciales.

The report says there has been little change in the poverty rate on Grand Turk and Providenciales since 1999, but notwithstanding this, the two islands contain over 80 per cent of the poor population.

Population The report further details the population growth of the TCI. It noted that it is only since the mid 1970’s that the population in the islands has been on a steady increase.

It is now about five times larger than it was at that time.

This growth, it adds, almost exactly parallels the development of the tourism industry; with it almost doubling in the 1990s.

The report puts the current population of TCI at around 31,500, representing a 57.5 per cent increase over the 2001 population of around 20,000.

It cautions that that the growth rate from 2001 to 2012 should not be taken at face value as it is likely that the population increased rapidly up to 2009/10 but declined somewhat since then due to the economic crisis.

The geographical pattern of population growth in TCI over the last 30 years shows that the population of Providenciales has increased from under 1,000 in 1980 to almost 24,000 today.

In contrast, with the partial exception of Grand Turk where there has been steady if low growth, the population in the other islands has declined or stagnated.

The reason for this is that Providenciales is where the tourist industry is concentrated and where the jobs have been created.

It finds that migration accounts for around two thirds of TCI’s population increase over the last 10 yearsreflecting a combination of the high demand for labour up to 2008 and a relatively liberal immigration policy.

In combination with immigration during the late 1980s and the 1990s, this means that TC Islanders are now in the minority accounting for 40 per cent of the population, although they remain the largest group.

This represents a turnaround from 2001 when Belongers constituted 52 per cent of the population.

The study finds that the pattern varies between islands but nonnationals are heavily represented on every island, and are in the majority on Providenciales and North Caicos.

The largest migrant groups are the Haitians with 35 per cent of the population, followed by the Jamaicans, 8 per cent and the Dominican Republicans with 5 per cent.

The report also looks into the economy, the difference between Belongers and non-Belongers and methods of controlling poverty growth.

Read the full article on the Weekly News website at www. tcweeklynews.com. (DI)

The bodies of the sloop tragedy victims are prepared for their journey home at Provo Air Centre

confirmed this and said he would be accompanying the bodies back to Haiti.

Meanwhile, police are still investigating the cause of the accident which resulted when a boat carrying dozens of Haitians capsized off the south coast of Providenciales in the early morning hours of

December 25.

The boat was at the time being towed into shore by marine police.

Thirty-three people were safely recovered and eventually repatriated to Haiti. However, 17 lost their lives.

The final police report is expected to be completed sometime in April.

(DI)

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

Conch Farm chairman bemoans many lost opportunities OVER the past year and a half, the owners and operators of the Caicos Conch Farm – Trade Wind Industries – have been tied up in litigation in the local courts while investment at the farm suffers.

Chairman of the company, John Hartley told the Weekly News that they recently lost another major investor who was very keen on introducing fish farming to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In 2012 the right to farm fish was excluded from the development agreement the company has with Government and has since been the subject of the lengthy court battle.

Hartley said the investor - a large Canadian group represented by a finance boutique - backed out due to the legal issues the company is engaged in with the Governor and Government of the Turks and Caicos.

This marks the latest in a long string of financial backers to withdraw their interest.

“They wrote to me two weeks ago to say that they have seen the newspapers about the TCI Government’s change of policy towards us, when [Premier] Ewing came out and said he was changing his mind about instructing the Attorney General,” the chairman said.

He said the investor’s letter essentially said that it is not possible for them to contemplate investment if the Government cannot be relied on.

“We need investment – this isn’t a resort, it’s a fish farm – and we really do have to have confidence that the Government and the Crown support the concept of the fish farming sector,” Hartley said.

He believes there needs to be sensible regulations in place to police the industry, as the reputation of the TCI could be at stake.

Hartley said the company needs allocation of places in TCI waters for them to place their cages in order to farm fish.

Asked how many investors have been lost so far, Hartley said dozens from all across the globe.

He said the Canadians were the most interested because there are strategic advantages to having access to Caribbean waters for mariculture the cultivation of marine organisms for food and other products in the open ocean.

Canada is one of the leading countries in the world for this specialised branch of aquaculture.

He added that up until the decision not to grant the company the right to farm fish, the response from investors was tremendous.

The chairman said the company is still in the dark as to why they were denied this right, which has essential destroyed their business.

He added that the TCI Government is now open to millions in damages due to recent evidence in the case currently engaging the court’s attention.

“So we are upset because we lost another investor who was very keen,” Hartley said.

Recently, one aspect of the complicated case was resolved with the company’s arguments in front of Judge Margaret Ramsay-Hale being upheld.

That matter had to do with the Crown’s application for a stay of TWI’s injunction against the Attorney General.

Lawyers for the company submitted to the court that the Government did not instruct the AG to act on its behalf when the AG appointed an arbitrator to hear arbitration proceedings that the Court of Appeal ruled last year was the manner in which the matter must

be settled.

As it stands now, the parties have to go trial to decide the validity of the AG’s authority to appoint the arbitrator.

However, in an interesting twist to the case, the Premier recently rescinded earlier evidence he gave that the Government did not instruct the AG to make decisions on its behalf without consultation.

In the new court evidence, he stated that - on the advice of the then acting Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles - the interim administration gave the AG the requisite authority when the case was first brought in 2012, and that it did not end after the election of the Government.

Ewing has since indicated that the AG has the authority of the Government to go ahead with the arbitration hearing and to appoint an arbitrator on its behalf.

THE OFFER In January this year, the company withdrew an offer it made in July 2013 to settle its suit with the TCI Government because they never received a response from the Government.

They had proposed to terminate all legal costs and exposure to the TCIG if it would agree to honour the terms and conditions of the existing development agreement and amendments that the Conch Farm operators signed with the TCIG, former Governor Gordon Wetherell and the Crown in 2010 and 2011.

That offer was not extended to the Governor.

Last week, TWI ran an advertisement in this publication indicating that the offer can still be taken up if the Government and the Crown so desire.

Asked about this, Hartley said

Famous eco-warrior visits TCI A MUCH revered conservationist arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands this week and will spend his time here educating the public on the importance of preserving the environment.

Fabien Cousteau is an aquatic filmmaker, writer, explorer and the grandson of famous marine expert Jacque Cousteau.

Born in France he followed his grandfather’s footsteps and dedicated his life to furthering understanding and preservation of the global marine environment.

He arrived in Providenciales on Friday (February 28) and will be on the island until March 6 where he will meet residents and tourists during a series of interactive events.

He said: “I am very excited to be visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands, home to the third largest barrier reef system and some

of the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean.”

The visit is being hosted by the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF), a volunteerrun organisation that provides funding for education, research and conservation programmes to help to preserve and protect TCI’s marine environment.

On Saturday (March 1) Cousteau will attend the third annual TCRF cocktail reception where he will give a key speech.

The event will take place at the Regent Palms from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and music will be provided

by David and Shara Bowen.

Tickets are $60 each and include complimentary champagne, hors d'oeuvres and a one year TCRF membership.

On Sunday (March 2) Cousteau will be chatting to up to 40 guests on the Atabeyra sail boat during

their sunset tour around the islands.

The trip will take place from 4pm to 6pm, tickets are $50 each and rum punch and snacks are included.

On Monday (March 3) a small group of students from the West Indies Collegiate will have the opportunity to explore the reef with Cousteau during a two tank dive with Dive Provo.

Then on Tuesday (March 4) and Wednesday (March 5) Cousteau will host an educational outreach programme for TCI’s students.

This will take place at the West Indies Collegiate where he will talk to scores of youngsters about the importance of protecting the marine environment.

For more information on the TCRF or to purchase a ticket for any of the above events, visit www.tcreef.org.

the company would like to settle their differences with the two parties and get on with building its fish farm.

However, he said this is not to say that the company does not want compensation for the “terrible damage” inflicted on them.

“We would be very happy to talk to anyone who calls us, but we will not negotiate with lawyers. We

are only going to negotiate with principals, and we have made it very clear. And we have some indication that the Crown might talk to us,” Hartley said.

He said the company’s claim is for the lost opportunity to do business and if they do not recover this opportunity, the company’s claim would be worth at least $100 million. (DI)

The visiting consultants will address existing gaps and help to draft new individual emergency plans

Work begins on national emergency plans A TEAM of international experts have been recruited to build a set of reliable national emergency plans for the TCI. For the past week and a half the specialist consultants have been taking part in workshops to address existing gaps in the existing National Disaster Management Plan and help to draft new individual plans for a number of priority areas.

They include risk management, damage assessment, maritime and cruise ship accidents, oil spills, ports, and external affairs.

The project is part of joint efforts to enhance the country’s preparation for and response to natural and manmade threats.

The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) has partnered with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) to support the development of the plans.

Dr Virginia Clerveaux, Director of the DDME, spoke to the Weekly News during one of the workshops at the DDME building on Wednesday (February 26).

“The idea is to ensure that emergency responders, persons that are involved in disaster management, can effectively respond to ensure continuity of business and continuity of Government after an event,” she explained.

The consultants are Arturo Lopez Portillo Contreras and Heather Stager who are looking at the national disaster mitigation plan and

the damage and needs assessment plan, Dr Balfour Spence who is looking at the port contingency and oil spill plans, Jamell Robinson who is assessing the external affairs plan and Paul Saunders who is drafting a maritime cruise ship accident plan.

Saunders explained: “What we’re looking at in that plan is incidents involving collisions with ships both of the cruise ship variety and also of any commercial shipping.

“This came about because the TCI depends very heavily on cruise ships for its tourism and also because of the frequency of general shipping traffic in and around the TCI. “What we wanted to ensure is that should anything happen the Government is prepared to handle it.”

The experts will develop methods of cooperation with Government, private stakeholders and international bodies before, during and after an emergency.

They will also clarify the roles and responsibilities of those required to execute the emergency function, and create standard operating procedures that will hone preparedness and response interventions in each sector.

Workshops began on Wednesday, February 19, and ran until Friday, February 28. The consultants will return to the Islands next month to ensure the new plans suit local needs.

The programme is being funded under CDEMA’s Comprehensive Disaster Management and Harmonised Implementation Programme. (RB and DH)

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PDM launches national unemployment drive OFFICIALS from the PDM kicked off a month-long national unemployment drive in Grand Turk on Monday (February 24).

The registration initiative is part of the party’s proactive approach to garnering critical information on the country’s levels of unemployment.

Members will be stationed in several areas across the Turks and Caicos Islands until the third week of March and are asking out of work residents to make themselves known.

Two Wednesdays ago, Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Border Control and Labour, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, told press that they consider unemployment data critical to planning.

“If Government does not see the wisdom in encouraging persons to register as unemployed, then we must take steps to do so as this is necessary to ensure that Government has a more accurate picture of the level of unemployment in these islands,” she said.

She said they are hopeful that the information will among other things, evoke a greater sense of urgency on the part of the Government to review work permits with a view to creating employment for unemployed and underemployed Belongers.

The PDM hopes that the Government will as a result appreciate the value of information and the need for a database to be maintained, and which would allow them to plan better.

“I am certain that the Government is perhaps tired of hearing me call for the database; but it makes a better tool for managing employment in these Islands,” Cartwright Robinson said.

The party also wants the Government to develop a Jobs Policy that will include the numbers

of students being added each year.

They hope that the data they gather will allow the Government to do this.

“We are therefore encouraging persons to work with us and register during the drive. We appreciate that our people are on the verge of hopelessness but we urge them to do their part,” the party leader encouraged.

On Tuesday (February 25) PDM officials travelled to South Caicos for the first set of registration there.

“The turnout was really good in Grand Turk and South Caicos on Monday and Tuesday. We moved around the constituencies and the response to the drive has been great so far,” Cartwright Robinson told the Weekly News on Tuesday.

The party is expected to be in North Caicos next Monday (March 3) at Bottle Creek from 11am to 1pm and in Kew from 2pm to 4 pm.

In Providenciales, the PDM officials will be stationed at the Five Cays Community Centre from 10am to 3pm.

There will be two additional registrations on Providenciales - one at the Clementina Walkin Park in Blue Hills from 10 am to 3pm on March 10, and another to be done door to door in Wheeland on March 13 from 2pm.

Meanwhile, the Opposition has undertaken another initiative. Media operatives have been invited on a tour as PDM officials travel the islands to bring issues to the forefront.

This commenced on Tuesday (February 25).

The party leader said: “If the Government does not come to the people, we believe that we must take the people to the Government in an open and transparent manner.” (DI)

Colleagues pay respects to former chief justice COURT of Appeal judge and former chief justice Sir Richard Ground died on Saturday (February 22) aged 64 following a short illness.

Tributes have been paid across the region to the respected English legal veteran who moved to the Caribbean as a young man to dedicate his career to administering justice.

This week his former TCI colleagues praised his wit, intellect and court conduct, and said that he will be sadly missed.

“He was greatly respected by the legal profession,” said Ariel Misick QC. “His passing is a great loss to all who came to know him.”

Sir Richard Ground was born on December 17, 1949, in Stamford, England, and was educated at Oakham School in Rutland, Lincoln College in Oxford, and the Inns of Court School of Law. He graduated with a BA Hons in English Language and Literature in 1970 and was called to the Bar in Gray’s Inn in 1975.

He began his legal career at a private practice at 1 Brick Court, Middle Temple, where he specialised in media law from 1976 to 83.

He left London in 1983 for the Cayman Islands where he served as Crown counsel under HM Attorney General Michael Bradley.

When Bradley was made Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in 1987, Governor Peter Lloyd appointed Sir Richard to be Cayman’s attorney general in his place.

He was appointed Queens Counsel (Cayman Islands) in 1987 and he served in the post of attorney general until 1992.

Sir Richard met and married his wife Dace in Cayman in 1986. She

Sir Richard Ground was greatly respected by the legal profession

was the government’s marine parks coordinator at the time, and they met while developing the Marine Parks Regulations.

Sir Richard was a keen diver and enthusiastic underwater photographer, but then discovered the amazing wildlife of Cayman above water, and never looked back.

He published his first book of wildlife photographs in 1989, titled ‘Creator's Glory’ in reference to the National Song, which he loved.

Sir Richard was awarded the OBE in the New Year’s Honours List 1991 for his services as Attorney General in Cayman.

He was then appointed Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Bermuda, serving from 1992 to 1998.

His next career move took him to the Turks and Caicos Islands, where he was chief justice from 1998 to 2004, and he published his second book in 2001 titled ‘The Birds of the Turks and Caicos Islands’.

In 2004 Sir Richard returned to Bermuda, when he was appointed chief justice. He served in this position for eight years, retiring in 2012.

Airport expansion about 60 per cent complete

BY DAISY HANDFIELD EXPANSION work at Providenciales International Airport is 60 per cent complete and the new check in area is open for public use.

On Thursday (February 27) officials from the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority briefed the media on the expansion and demonstrated the progress.

Terminal manager for the authority, Lavern Skippings, said that they are currently on schedule for their 2014 winter debut.

“A lot of work overlaps one into the next because as you can see we have done a lot of work without a checking in area and moving onto the departure as well as the arrivals.”

Improvements set to be completed include the building of new domestic bathrooms, demolition of the old domestic bathrooms, and extension of the security check point, the departure lounge and the arrivals hall.

Skippings said that one of the last

The new check in area at Providenciales International Airport is open for public use

areas that they intend to complete will be the domestic area where they will have a curve by domestic check in and an expanded security area.

On Monday (March 3) the TCI Airport Authority will close off the temporary tunnel area which currently connects the check in to

NEWS 13

the arrival side and passengers will be rerouted.

According to the terminal manager this switch should barely affect the operations of the airport.

She said: “We would have to put up a lot of signage just so they are consistent with the flows.”

Customers will be able to access the new check in area in its raw state, as further levelling and tiling continue to take place.

Skipping said that sometimes construction gets a bit challenging as that the airport operates 365 days a year but they try to maintain a good flow.

She said: “It’s a challenge, but we are trying our best so that’s why we had to build up the tunnel itself to keep passengers secure while we continue construction works.

“I think it did slow down some of the passenger movement, but it had allowed us to do a lot of work in the day time.”

The $10 million project has earned much attention in both the Turks and Caicos Islands and further afield.

TCI will soon become one of the first Caribbean countries to have fully functioning multi-use check in kiosks complete with a bag tag printing system.

That year he was made a Knight Bachelor in the Birthday Honours list 2012 for his services to justice in Bermuda.

In other legal appointments, he had begun serving as justice of the Court of Appeal for Turks and Caicos Islands in 2005, and was appointed to the Court of Appeal in the Cayman Islands in 2012.

Effective 1 January 2013, he was appointed to sit on the Bermuda Court of Appeal but his illness overtook him before he could attend his first session.

TRIBUTES Many of the country’s most senior legal professionals had the opportunity to work with Sir Richard during his time in the TCI, and were saddened by his loss.

Ariel Misick QC, senior partner at Misick and Stanbrook, said: “Sir Richard was an eminent lawyer and jurist. I had the honour of appearing before him on many occasions when he served as a judge at first instance and as a member of the Court of Appeal. I also had the privilege of interacting with him socially,” he said.

“I admired his intellect, his wit and his ability to grasp the issues in any case with the speed and alacrity that he did.

“His judgments, which were rarely appealable, were succinct and readily understandable.

“He made an immense contribution to the administration of justice in these Islands as chief justice and then as a Court of Appeal justice.”

Carlos W Simons QC, senior partner of Miller, Simmons, O’Sullivan, said the judiciary and the legal fraternity of TCI has lost an exceptional lawyer and judge.

“Sir Richard will be remembered by all for his great intellect, his pleasant (but sober and stern) conduct of his court and his always engaging conversation on social occasions.

“His accomplishments in the TCI include the rewriting of the Supreme Court rules and the elevation of the first TCI Queen’s Counsel.

“May his widow find comfort in the achievements of a life well lived.”

Conrad Griffiths QC, senior partner of Griffiths and Partners, said that Sir Richard was enormously respected for his contribution to the legal world across the Caribbean.

“He was an exceptionally able lawyer and the driving force behind significant and lasting reforms to the TCI legal system,” he told the Weekly News.

“He was above all a fair man who cared about the people and the environment of all the Islands he lived in. He made better lawyers of all of us who appeared before him.

“His untimely death is a real loss to the Islands. Our sympathies go to his wife Dace and his family.” (RB)

Lifestyle...

14

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

Fertiliser

FERTILISER is any organic or inorganic material of natural or synthetic origin that is added to the soil to supply elements necessary for the growth of plants.

Organic means something that is or was alive. Animal manure was once living plants while bone meal is composed of ground up bones of animals.

Inorganic means from non-living sources, rock phosphate, a common source of phosphorus, comes from rocks, a non-living material.

The term natural describes the manure, bone meal and rock phosphate as all naturally occurring.

The term synthetic describes such

products as nitrogen fertiliser which is manufactured.

Inorganic fertiliser is immediately available to plants, whereas organic fertiliser must be converted by microorganisms in the soil to an inorganic form before it can be used.

What the numbers mean On a package of fertiliser you will find three or four numbers separated by hyphens.

The numbers indicate the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulphur (S).

A complete fertiliser contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

In addition to these major nutrients there are also trace elements such as iron, zinc, copper, calcium, manganese and magnesium which are necessary for plants to complete their lifecycle.

Nitrogen Nitrogen is required for the green, leafy vegetative growth of plants.

Deficiency symptoms of nitrogen are an overall pale yellow colour of leaves and dwarfed or stunted plants.

Nitrogen is easily leached down

Lobster spaghetti with ricotta cheese SERVES: 2

METHOD • Set a pot of water on the stove, add salt and bring to a boil.

• Once boiling, add the pasta and stir until it’s ‘al dente’.

• Once al dente, strain the spaghetti and allow to cool, placing it aside.

through the soil below the roots and is not available to the plant so is the element most often lacking and needing replacement.

Too much nitrogen can delay flowering, fruiting and seed set.

Phosphorus Phosphorus promotes root growth, root branching, stem growth, flowering, fruiting, seed formation and maturation.

Deficiency symptoms are indicated by a red or purplish tinge to stems and foliage. It is stable and non-mobile in the soil so leaching is not a problem.

Potassium Potassium enables the plant to

• Set a skillet on the stove and add two tablespoons of olive oil on medium heat.

• When hot place in the chopped lobster and add the sliced zucchini. Add salt and pepper to taste, then sauté.

• Add the tomato sauce and simmer to half, place the spaghetti inside and stir until coated.

• Add the chopped basil then put into a bowl and put thyme and ricotta cheese on top, finish with two basil leaves.

This recipe was submitted by West Bay Club. The resort’s Noodle Bar and Kitchen restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily. Reservations can be by calling 946-8550.

The Weekly News is looking for a restaurant, café or personal chef to contribute weekly recipes to the newspaper. For more information call 946-4664 or email tcweeklynews.com.

withstand stress such as drought, cold, heat, and disease.

It also stimulates flower colour and promotes tuber formation and a strong root system.

Deficiency symptoms are indicated when the leaves appear dry and scorched on the edges and have irregular yellowing.

Both chemical and organic fertilisers are available in dry and liquid forms. Once a decision is made concerning which type to use, the information in this article can be applied to compare and select the most economical brands.

Regardless of which brand is selected it is a good idea to have a few favourites and switch fertilisers every few months.

FASHION AND BEAUTY 

By Easher Parker

Finding the faults with foundation WE HAVE all had bad days thanks to some poor choices we’ve made when it comes to our foundation.

Luckily for most of us, lessons are always learned and I have five to share.

Thyme ricotta: • Ricotta cheese • 1 tablespoon of thyme leaves • Salt and pepper to taste • Basil leaves

For all your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs, please call or write for a free estimate: 332-3381 or denis@naturesplendor.net

I am a Turks and Caicos native with a natural talent for writing and a love for all things beauty and style. You can find out more from at itseasher.com or if you have any questions, suggestions or would like to get in touch, email me at easherparker@gmail.com or follow me on Twitter or Instagram @itseasher to get fab instant updates wherever I go!

Weekly Recipe

INGREDIENTS • Lobster bolognaise: • 1 lobster tail (pre-cooked and chopped) • 1 cup of tomato sauce • 8 oz of linguine pasta

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR

Applying all over the face It’s not a healthy recommendation to apply foundation all over the face.

It’s better to apply where needed, especially if you’re going to be adding powder and concealer into the equation.

With all of that, you wouldn’t need to apply a full face of foundation.

There are those who skip foundation all together, Plus when you put some thought into it, you’re wasting your foundation and money by using it in places you don’t need.

Over powdering In addition to committing crime number one on the list, sometimes we tend to over powder.

We’ve all heard at some point in time to only apply powder where it’s necessary. Over powdering can flatten your look.

Those with oily skin, please stock up on oil blotting sheets and go easy

on the milk of magnesia.

Use blotting sheets to absorb oil prior to touching up with a little powder. This will help in avoiding a chalky or cakey appearance.

Skipping out on primer With the mention of milk of magnesia, let’s establish that it is not a primer. Its purpose is to absorb water or oil under makeup in this case.

MOM goes over primer, which preps the canvas to better receive whatever medium you apply.

Your foundation adheres better and appears smoother with primer.

Local beauty stores and pharmacies have a decent range of primers that may suit your fancy.

Testing on hands and jawline You may hear the suggestion that testing foundation on the hands or jawline is a good way to find your shade but it actually isn’t if you’re serious about finding a good match.

It takes time and patience but it’s worth it.

What you should consider is applying a tester shade lightly under the eye area, cheeks and the jawline

on one side.

Walk around with it, view it in different lighting and let it dry of course. This way you will be able to determine if the tester really gets the job done.

Wearing concealer underneath While it may make sense to apply concealer before foundation, that is actually a big NONO. In simple terms, concealer being a thicker concentration of foundation, should follow the application of regular foundation for areas that require a little more heavy duty coverage.

Like what? Scars, pimples, birthmarks and under the eye area.

It’s also important to add that, like foundation, concealer is not meant to go all over the face!

March 1 - 7, 2014

Lifestyle...

YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Tamika graduated from Florida International University with a Master's Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licenced to practise medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida. Email Tamika at tamikahandfield@yahoo.com with your healthy eating questions.

Breakfast myth busters NATIONAL School Breakfast Week is being celebrated from March 3 to 7, so this week we will shed some light on a few of the many myths that families have concerning breakfast.

Breakfast is an important meal; however, many people find it hard to fit it into their daily schedule.

While some breakfast tales may be true, many are not. Read on to see which ones are correct.

Skipping breakfast is a good way to lose weight - this is false.

Research shows that the exact opposite is true. While we are asleep, our body is using energy but only enough to supply the organs that keep us alive.

Eating a well-balanced breakfast helps to ‘kick start’ the body’s metabolism so that it can start burning calories.

Breakfast, as the name suggests, breaks the overnight fast and gets us ready for the day. Persons who skip breakfast tend to overeat at later meals because by then they are very hungry.

Skipping breakfast also affects the concentration and learning abilities of school children.

Most families have no time - no time in the morning is the top reason many families skip breakfast. However, you and your child may not have to substitute beneficial nutrients in order to save time.

Quick nutrient packed breakfast ideas such as high-fibre cereal with low-fat milk, whole grain bagels or English muffins, yogurt with fruit and low-fat granola, hard boiled eggs or even hot oatmeal can supply the needed carbohydrates, protein, fibre and calcium you and your child need to get going in the morning.

Other ideas to get out of the house on time and have breakfast may include prepping the night before by setting out some boxes of cereal children can choose from, taking it with you or consider getting up 10 to 15 minutes earlier than usual.

People who eat breakfast usually live healthier lifestyles - this is definitely true! There is something about eating a good breakfast that makes you want to continue making healthy choices throughout the day.

These people usually have more energy and are more physically active. An added bonus of eating breakfast as a family is you are instilling lifelong, healthy habits.

Breakfast does not have to be a grand expensive affair; all you need is a little bit of planning.

This will help to minimise the stress surrounding breakfast in the mornings.

Happy eating!

Nutrition in Demand. A non-profit organisation helping you to 'Eat healthy today...live longer, better tomorrow'. Call 242-3978 or 442-3978.

15

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

fitness Tip 

By Dr. Joe LeMoine

Dr. Joe LeMoine, is an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician. He has worked with many international athletes and at many sporting events on the world stage. He currently practices in Providenciales, at Prime Sports Medicine.

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician

Gardening for fitness MANY people find great pleasure in gardening and they are also living longer.

Gardening is well known to provide healthy food and is a relaxing past time.

A recent study looked at the health benefits of activity rather than exercise alone. It followed a group of 4,000 people for over a dozen years and found many health benefits of activities such as gardening and DIY in people over 60.

Daily activity was found to be as beneficial as training for a marathon in seniors. The gardening hobby can decrease the risk of heart attack and add years to your life.

Gardeners were also found to have better blood cholesterol, slimmer waistlines and less diabetes.

This is great news for a large part of the population that might not be inclined to adopt running, swimming, cycling or going to the gym.

Moderate daily activity is one of the important keys to healthy living.

Further research indicates that gardening burns calories at the same rate as riding a bike or taking a vigorous walk.

Gardeners have a tendency to have better motion in their joints.

Furthermore some of the heavy chores help to build up many muscle groups.

As with any exercise it is important to perform it safely. Be sure to warm up with some light

activities first and you can add some stretching to loosen up as well.

Be sure to keep your back and core taught and upright and lift or pull using your legs.

While working in the heat be sure to protect from the sunlight and remain hydrated.

The benefits of gardening are plentiful; working out your green thumb leads to a healthy you.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Should teenagers have curfews?

CURFEWS are an important teaching tool for parents and a great way for teenagers to learn about your rules and expectations.

Helping your teenager understand his limits is an important lesson of childhood.

While your teenager may be ready to venture out a little bit on his own, he’s not ready to know when it’s time to come home without your guidance.

A 7pm curfew on school nights isn’t unreasonable. On the weekends, a teenager’s curfew could be pushed to 8pm or 8.30pm or later, depending on the circumstances and what you’re comfortable with.

Deciding on a curfew time isn’t really the hard part; it’s enforcing the curfew and communicating your rules that’s the real challenge.

No matter what time you establish as your teenager’s curfew, chances are he’ll complain and insist that his friends can stay out much longer.

Be prepared, for it’s highly likely that your teenager will want to negotiate his curfew. Be firm, and make it clear that some family rules are just not up for negotiation.

It’s important your teenager understand why his curfew may be

By Audley Astwood

Police Public Relations Officer

different from everybody else’s.

Explain how you arrived at your decision so he understands that you didn’t arbitrarily pick a time.

Also, be clear about other rules regarding your child’s safety, such as whether or not an adult should always be home when he’s visiting a friend or going to watch a movie.

Explain why you insist on adult supervision, and that your goal is to keep him safe and to prevent him from stumbling into situations he’s not yet ready to handle.

Make other rules crystal clear as well. Is your child allowed to ride his bike home in the dark? If he’s going to be late, should he phone home to let you know?

It’s okay to extend your teenager’s curfew for special events and circumstances, such as a school play, a family event, or an extra-curricular commitment.

Just make sure that extensions are the

exceptions to the rule, rather than the norm. Consistency is the key to making curfews work.

Consider your child’s sleep needs before deciding on a curfew time.

Remember that most teenagers need at least nine hours of sleep at night, and that includes weekends, too.

Also keep in mind that teenagers need about a half hour to transition themselves from a busy day to rest time.

One of the reasons parents establish curfews is to make sure children have time for all the other important events of the day.

If your teenager doesn’t keep to his curfew, he needs to understand the consequences of his actions.

Explain what consequences your teenager will face if he forgets his curfew or ignores it all together.

For example, if your son arrives home 20 minutes after his curfew, you may ground him for a time you deem fit.

Don’t be afraid to discipline your teenager for forgetting or ignoring his curfew. Curfews don’t work unless they're enforced, and the whole idea behind setting a curfew is for your child to learn how to follow the rules, behave responsibly and safely, and show you that he’s worthy of your trust.

16 NEWS

Beckingham blogs on TCI GOVERNOR Peter Beckingham hopes to promote tourism and encourage new investment in the TCI by continuing a series of online commentaries.

During his three years stationed in Mumbai he regularly entered blogs on the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website, addressing topics from business to sports.

Beckingham explained why he has decided to continue with his online entries after four months in the TCI. “I have a number of aims,” he said, “first and most importantly I hope that they may be of interest to residents in these beautiful Islands, as a modest illustration of the work that I and many others are doing.

“Second, and leading on from that, if they encourage more tourists to visit then they will have been worth every minute of my time.

“And finally, as in Mumbai, it is possible some may be of some interest to those looking at investing here, to get a flavour of the issues and openings.”

His latest addition on February 20 is titled ‘Turks and Caicos Islands - a world away from Mumbai: A small population with a big Christian following’ and is the first since his arrival in the TCI. “The contrasts with Mumbai could hardly be greater,” it reads.

“There a population of about 20 million are squeezed into an area probably little bigger than the whole of TCI, which supports a population of 31,500.

“In Mumbai it took me at least 40 minutes on a good day to drive to work, here the walk is five minutes at a push. And, dare I say, the surrounding waters of the two islands are like chalk and cheese.”

The Governor went on to say

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Governor Peter Beckingham has decided to continue his online blogs

that another difference is religion.

Christianity is the religion of almost the entire population of the TCI with about 50 per cent attending a service every weekend.

“It is impossible to understand this country without understanding its bedrock of Christian faith and, I am learning, listening to its preachers.”

In January Beckingham attended an “unusual” Christian service, honouring those involved in law enforcement on the Islands.

A guard of honour of police and prison officers greeted participants before a service in Grand Turk’s attractive Methodist Church, he explained in his blog.

The aim of the annual service was to remind everyone of the importance of members of the police, fire, road safety, border control, prison service and other departments to TCI.

Although it had a serious purpose the service was a happy occasion, Beckingham said, marked by some rousing singing from the Methodist choir and a passionate sermon by the local pastor, the Reverend Mark Christmas.

“My wife was left in no doubt that she should tell the BBC to send a crew here to film one of its ‘Songs of Praise’ programmes. They are missing a treat.”

Over the next few weeks and months Governor Beckingham hopes to capture some of TCI’s many attractions, including its appeal to tourists and new investors.

To provide variety he invited members of the Government and public service to contribute guest blogs.

To read Governor Peter Beckingham’s blogs visit www. blogs.fco.gov.uk/peterbeckingham.

(RB)

Premier commits to help the average businessman HELPING the “average businessman” to convert tourist arrivals into dollars and cents is a Government priority, according to the Premier.

Rufus Ewing made the statement following an international conference on developing tourism which he attended in the Bahamas last week.

Government and industry officials from around the world took part in the ‘Small Island Developing States Conference’ in Nassau on February 19 and 20.

During the two day event panellists spoke on a variety of topics such as competitiveness and sustainability perspectives, regional integration, air connectivity and risk management.

Premier Ewing, who is also Minister of Tourism, said the conference was very timely for the Turks and Caicos Islands as it followed the recent announcement of a hike in tourist arrivals.

“Yes, we have achieved the one million visitors, but how can we turn that into dollars and cents for the average businessman?” he asked.

He stressed that the true success of the industry should be defined and measured by how well it positively impacts small businesses.

“That is our challenge but as a Government we are committed to doing just that, and so the tools and lessons learnt that were shared over the past two days will go a long way in helping us achieve that very important objective.”

Ewing went on to say that he

is proud of the tourism industry and plans to diversify into new areas such as eco-tourism and agri-tourism.

The conference was held under the theme ‘Tourism as a key factor for development in island states’ and was hosted jointly by the Ministry for Tourism of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the World Tourism Organisation.

Topics of discussion focused mainly on the Caribbean but attendees were also given the opportunity to discuss worldwide issues.

Joining the Premier at the conference were Dr Kingsley Been, chairman of the Tourist Board, and Brian Been, senior product development officer at the Tourist Board.

During his visit to the Bahamas Ewing also took time to meet with the country’s government officials including Prime Minister Perry Christie to discuss the state of governance in the TCI. Other topics addressed included the judiciary system, the economic and social systems imposed during the interim administration and the country’s return to self-governance.

This was in part as a result of recommendations made following a Caricom fact-finding mission to the TCI last June.

The Premier was also invited to meet with the management and staff of Pan America Health Organisation (PAHO).

This body has helped the TCI to provide vaccines and other programs for the prevention of communicable diseases.

Maria Rigby named Prison Officer of 2013 EMPLOYEE of nearly a decade for the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force (RTCIPF), Maria Rigby was recently commemorated as Prison Officer of 2013.

A ceremony was held in Grand Turk on Monday, February 17, during which Governor Peter Beckingham presented Rigby with a shield, cash award and a token of appreciation.

In handing over the award Beckingham thanked Rigby and her colleagues for their consistent hard work and commitment in all areas.

He said: “What you do may not always seem appreciated but we do appreciate all that you do. More than 90 per cent of you have not yet won this award but you too can win.”

The Prison Officer of the Year award was introduced a year ago, Prison Superintendent Ian Sargent

explained in a press release.

It was one of several initiatives to boost staff morale and demonstrate the commitment of both the ministry and Her Majesty’s Prison to ensuring that members of staff who deliver at the highest standards are recognised and rewarded.

Rigby joined HM Prison in March 2004 as a prison officer and currently works on the prison’s rehabilitation strategy.

Both management and colleagues agree that it was Rigby’s commitment and motivation in performing her duties that allowed her to top the competition.

Rigby was lauded for her commitment to the prison’s rehabilitation strategy through the provision of activities for female prisoners, her commitment and motivation in attending out of work

activities and teambuilding events, for being an extremely reliable member of staff and being especially supportive to her colleagues.

Selection for Prison Officer of the Year is a two-tiered process with candidates receiving the votes of their colleagues as well as facing a selection and assessment panel.

This considers the candidate’s competences including professionalism, on-the-job performance of duties as well as the overall impact of the officers’ performance on the core functions of the service to carry out its national directives.

Other factors include the individual’s commitment and motivation in executing his or her responsibilities and willingness to go beyond the call of duty.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs, Susan Malcolm, presented

Governor Peter Beckingham and Maria Rigby holding up her cheque of $500

two quarterly awards to Officer Mildred Toussaint and Officer Everton Thompson.

Malcolm said: “It is good when management recognises, but even better when our peers do.

“I commend you for the challenging roles you carry out on

behalf of the community and the inmates.”

The Prison Officer of the Year award is funded by the Office of the Governor.

Governor Beckingham was accompanied by his wife Jill Beckingham.

March 1 - 7, 2014

NEWS 17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Heart Foundation observes Heart Month with community events WITH an aim to raise public awareness of heart health in the local community, the Turks and Caicos Heart Foundation ended Heart Month (February) with some engaging community events.

Partnering with Baptist Health South Florida, the foundation hosted its biannual Heart Foundation Ball on Friday (February 21) at Beaches for more than 100 invitees.

During the evening’s event, themed ‘Go Red Affair’, Dr Yvonne Johnson of Baptist Health South Florida and president of the medical staff at South Miami Hospital addressed the audience, discussing heart disease and health tips for living a better overall lifestyle.

Titled ‘Know Your Numbers’ Dr Johnson’s words encouraged the audience to know the numbers associated with their blood pressure, cholesterol level, blood glucose, waist circumference, weight and body mass index.

These numbers, she pointed out, are important in knowing one’s risk factors associated with obesity, diabetes and other diseases that lead

to heart disease.

She said that although it was traditionally thought of a man’s disease, heart disease is the number one killer of women and men worldwide.

The main message she brought was to “know what the state of your own health is”.

She said that the knowledge is “not to make you depressed, it’s so you can do something about it because all of the issues have treatments like, lifestyle modification, exercise and medication.”

Present at the event was Minister of Health and Human Services Porsha Stubbs-Smith, corporate entities and a cross section of representatives from every nationality.

President of the Turks and Caicos Heart Foundation, Karen Malcolm, said that it was intended that the invitees would spread the message among their community.

Malcolm said that during the month representatives of the foundation went into several schools and to the TCI Community College to spread awareness since they think

Baptist Health International Representative Kathleen Tuitt, president of the medical staff at South Miami Hospital, Dr Yvonne Johnson, and president of the Turks and Caicos Heart Foundation, Karen Malcolm

it is best to teach children about taking care of themselves when they are young.

Also on Saturday morning the foundation organised a ‘Bike for the Heart’ event where members of the community got involved in cycling and walking with the awareness that it is a healthy heart choice.

The foundation was established in 2006 to improve public and medical awareness about heart disease with an aim to build healthier lives free from cardiovascular disease in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Malcolm encouraged more people to get involved in the organisation to help spread their message and raise awareness in the community.

She said that while statistics on heart health of the TCI population are not clear and readily available,

Financial Services Commission welcomes new director A REGIONAL expert from the UK has been hired as a new director of the TCI’s Financial Services Commission (FSC).

Governor Peter Beckingham appointed Kevin Mann to the board on Friday, February 14.

Mann has helped to establish independent regulatory authorities and financial intelligence units in all of the UK’s overseas territories in the Caribbean.

Before being appointed to the role he had already worked closely with TCI finance agencies and Government officials.

Managing Director Kevin Higgins said: “With 28 years in the supervision and regulation of the financial service industry in the UK and the overseas territories, Mr Mann brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise which complements the various skills set the commission’s board of directors hold as a whole.”

Until recently the Mann was responsible for oversight of regulatory standards for offshore financial services activities in the UK’s six Caribbean territories

- Bermuda, Cayman, British Virgin Islands, TCI, Anguilla and Montserrat.

Over a period of 10 years he provided expert regulatory policy advice, analysis and hands on technical assistance to the UK government, overseas territories governors, overseas territories governments and their agencies.

He covered the risks, impact and implications of international regulatory initiatives.

Mr Mann is a certified antimoney laundering specialist and played a critical role assisting territories in improving preparations for evaluations.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission is responsible for the licensing, supervision and development of the financial services industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The board consists of chairman Errol Allen, deputy chairman Oswald Simons, director Neville Grant, Permanent Secretary of Finance Athenee Harvey, managing director Kevin Higgins and director Kevin Mann.

they have identified that the number with heart problems is high.

Recognising this, the foundation

encourages the population to eat healthy and take care of their bodies and heart. (KH)

The Towers of Babel “An ancient city in the land of Shinar in which the building of a tower intended to reach heaven was begun and the confusion of the language of the people took place.” Gen 11:4–9.

The Towers of Babel is a collective of voices consisting of various artists prepared to display their exceptional art forms and foster the inner artist in other individuals; providing a venue for the outpouring of their undeniably unique gifts.

This group brings to the stage and page productions rarely displayed on stages in the Turks and Caicos Islands melding with some of the most unique artists the country has to offer.

For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com

Crying for love

By Mr OMG

It’s crazy how hard it is for me to look at you, because every time I do, it makes me feel like saying I do.

You might say what is wrong with that? I guess you have no clue, but I am forbidden to love you.

Deputy Governor Anya Williams

Deputy Governor begins maternity leave TCI’s Deputy Governor Anya Williams is off work and on maternity leave, the Governor’s Office announced on Thursday (February 27).

During her absence Governor Peter Beckingham will cover her duties as head of the TCI civil service.

The remaining staff in the Office of the Deputy Governor and the TCI Government Human Resources Directorate will assist the Governor in these duties.

Williams plans to return to the office at the beginning of May.

But I do.

So in my mind I am trying to let go, even though I never held you, I can see you standing next to me, still I can’t touch you, but how can I, when your miles away, still I can feel your presence, it’s crazy because it’s you who inspired me to write this song, making me happy and making me sad, because I am forbidden to love you, but I do.

Still I can hear the world saying; why, “Why can’t you love her?”

With tears in my voice I replied; “Because her heart has turned cold from so many men who used and abused her,” fail to see my love; she in return used and abused me, she said: “This love was too good to be truth,” ashamed of her past, she would tell me lies, she would hide her scars behind a smile, but every night when I go to sleep am thinking of her, I can feel her crying out for help, I can hear saying: “Save me from myself,” wishing I could take her out of this hell, but as long as she refuse to see her value there’s not much I can do, I tried to show her, but when your suck between a dream and a fantasy there no room for reality.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

Regional News Barbados central bank governor says solution found to settle CLICO arrears GOVERNOR of the Central Bank of Barbados, Dr. Delisle Worrell says a cooperative solution has been found to settle outstanding Colonial Life Insurance Company (CLICO) claims in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.

He told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that the latest report from the judicial manager made to the Barbados court provides a way forward which seems fair to all stakeholders.

“What it says is that you may not be remunerated for interest that you might have accumulated, but we will at least ensure that you get a product which restores the principle value of what you might have invested with the company,” Worrell said.

He said individuals would be entitled to some annuity on maturity, which they could cash out but with a penalty, while in the case of institutional investors, a company will own those assets, which will go on sale overtime.

“Institutional investors will get shares in that company and as the assets are sold then they will be paid their principle amount,” he added.

The Central Bank Governor said the authorities were taking that route, because of the issue of insurance companies now being restricted in their ownership of property and income generating assets.

He said the principle reason for the delay was to ensure that the new plan could be applied equally in

Outstanding CLICO claims in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean could be put to rest with the new solution.

Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and ensuring that all of the territories were on board.

Worrell told CMC that the problems facing the Barbados economy were unlikely to affect the plan because the contributions the Barbados government would be required to make are manageable.

Barbados Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Chris Sinckler last month said that many of the cabinet papers have been completed and submitted regarding the approval of the formal and final restructuring plan for CLICO. “We expect thereafter the judicial managers will shortly...not sure of the time frame in a couple of weeks or so, will return to the courts and indicate to the courts that the

government has thrown its full support behind the restructuring plan which was identified when they last went to the court and had tentative approval for it”.

The appointment of the judicial manager is part of the initiative by Eastern Caribbean governments, including Barbados, to recover some of the assets of policy holders with the Trinidad-based CLICO, which is part of the financially troubled CL Financial Group.

On February 4, 2011 the Supervisor of Insurance in Barbados announced the appointment of a judicial manager and on March 2, the Regulatory Authority in Barbados made an application to the Supreme Court of Barbados for an order of judicial management.

CLICO and its sister company, the British American Insurance Company (BAICO) collapsed in 2009 and the Trinidad and Tobago government signed a shareholders’ agreement with then CLICO chairman Lawrence Duprey following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between them on January 30, 2009. The MOU gave the government control of 49 per cent of CLICO’s shares.

The then Patrick Manning government injected seven billion Trinidad and Tobago dollars (US$1.01 billion) into CLICO in 2009 to keep the collapsed insurance firm running and protect policy holders.

Bahamas: Retired police to sue for more than $100m HUNDREDS of retired police officers are taking legal action against the government and the head of the Royal Bahamas Police Force concerning more than $100m in gratuities owed to them.

Speaking to The Tribune at the Supreme Court earlier this week, lawyer Dr Glendon Rolle said his clients, for up to 40 years, have been denied the benefits that were guaranteed to them by law after they served no less than 10 years as officers of the RBPF. “We have calculated thus far in excess of over $100m the Commissioner of Police is owing to these retired officers in lieu of their gratuities, including those who are deceased. We’re calling forth all officers who were Sergeant and below who had not received their gratuity, they’re still entitled to their gratuity according to the law,” Dr Rolle said.

“We’re looking at least 40 plus years in outstanding gratuity and there are some persons who have been actually paid gratuity and so therefore on those premises, if some

have been paid gratuity and some haven’t then we want to know where the scale lies.”

According to chapter 191, section 66 of the Police Act (1969), the law states that any police officer having completed not less than ten years of continuous service, retires from the force at an age other than that at which or in circumstances other than those in which he may be granted a pension in respect of such service, the Governor General, acting in accordance with the advice of the Police Service Commission, may grant to such officer in respect of each year of such service, a gratuity amounting to 2.5 per cent of his salary at the date of his retirement.

Section 15(1) of the current Public Service Act notes that every contract officer who is employed for a continuous period of not less than two years in any public office shall upon satisfactory completion of his contract service, be entitled to receive and he shall be paid out of the Consolidated Fund, a gratuity equal in amount to 15 per cent of the total salary which

he shall receive in respect of such contract.

The Amended Police Act 2009 defines a contract officer as a police officer equivalent or below the rank of sergeant. That act further went on to say in section 90, which reiterates the previous act with the exception that officer would receive four per cent of his salary at the date of his retirement.

On December 23, 2013, Dr Rolle received a response to a letter sent by his firm, Lord Ellor & Co, concerning his letter to the Public Service Commission addressing the issue of “gratuity entitlements for subordinate officers”.

It directs the attorney to address his concerns to the Commissioner of Police and the Minister of National Security who has responsibility for the RBPF, and further noted that the matter would be reviewed by those agencies who would then make a recommendation to the Department of Public Service.

“We have given the Commissioner of Police an opportunity to respond to this amicably,” Dr Rolle said.

Barbados Central Bank Governor wants VAT scrapped CENTRAL Bank Governor Dr Delisle Worrell has recommended that Government scrap the Value Added Tax as a source of revenue since it is complicated, has hurt the tourism industry and is basically “a mess”.

He is quoted as telling a Bahamian newspaper during a visit by regional journalists for last week’s Caribbean Economic Forum, that his stance on VAT, implemented here since 1997, was “very radical” because he believed it to be an inappropriate tax for a tourism-related economy.

“VAT is an anti-tourism tax if you are a tourism producer

because it makes your tourism more expensive than the people who don’t charge VAT . . . .

A simple sales tax would do. If you had a simple sales tax then that would be a more efficient way to raise the same level of revenue,” he told the newspaper whose country is about to introduce a ten per cent VAT on goods and services. Describing VAT as very complicated, problematic, regressive and “horribly complicated”, the Governor told the Nassau Guardian that it placed a tremendous burden on Government administration.

(Barbados Nation)

US releases last rules in crackdown on offshore tax evasion in the Caribbean UNITED States authorities have released the “last substantial” package of regulations to combat offshore tax evasion in the Caribbean, saying the measures were also necessary to implement the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).

The Department of the Treasury (DOT) and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) said the regulations make additions and clarifications to previously issued FATCA measures and provide guidance to coordinate FATCA rules with preexisting due diligence, reporting, and withholding requirements under other provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (Code).

“Offshore tax evasion undermines confidence in our tax system and deprives the United States of revenues necessary to protect and provide for its citizens,” said DOT Secretary Jacob J. Lew. “There is significant momentum to implement FATCA across the globe, and we will continue to work closely with our international partners to combat these illicit activities and raise global tax standards,” he added.

The DOT said, each year, “some wealthy individuals evade millions of dollars in taxes through the use of offshore financial accounts that are not reported to the IRS or other tax authorities.

“This international tax evasion is illegal, contributes to the federal debt, and creates inequity within the tax system,” it added.

The US Congress enacted FATCA in 2010 with bipartisan support to target these illicit activities, stating that the provision has since become the global standard for promoting tax transparency.

The FATCA seeks to obtain

information on accounts held by US taxpayers in other countries, including the Caribbean.

The DOT said the FATCA generally requires US financial institutions to withhold a portion of certain payments made to certain foreign financial institutions (FFIs) that do not agree to identify and report information on US account holders.

It said this withholding regime acts as a backstop to the main focus of FATCA, which is to obtain the information about accounts held by US persons and by certain foreign entities with substantial US owners that is needed to detect and deter offshore tax evasion.

To address situations where foreign law would prevent an FFI from reporting directly to the IRS the information, the DOT said it has developed two alternative model intergovernmental agreements (IGAs).

It said these IGAs facilitate the “effective and efficient implementation of FATCA information reporting in a manner that removes foreign law impediments to compliance, fulfills the information reporting objectives of chapter 4, and further reduces burdens on FFIs located in partner jurisdictions”.

The DOT said the United States has signed agreements with 22 countries, adding that many more have either reached agreements in substance that are awaiting signature, or are “well along in the process”.

The DOT said final regulations for FATCA were published in January 2013, about a year and a half before FATCA withholding will go into effect on July 1, 2014.

March 1 - 7, 2014

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News Major earthquake, tsunami in the Caribbean worries St Lucia’s head ST. LUCIA’S Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony is urging regional countries to take seriously predictions by scientists that the Caribbean could be hit by a major earthquake that could trigger a tsunami.

“There has been considerable anxiety and concern about earthquakes in the Caribbean. It is true to say that over the past 24 months, there have been several mini earthquakes and scientists have warned us that our region should prepare for the big one, meaning at some point there might well be a major earthquake in the region,” Anthony said as he accepted an US$10,000 donation from Chile in the aftermath of the destruction caused by the low level trough that affected the island over the Christmas Season.

“Over the past few days, I have been thinking of asking our emergency organisation to begin to intensify their efforts to sensitise St Lucians about the possibility of a major earthquake and an accompanying tsunami,” Anthony added.

Last week, several Caribbean

Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony said that he is already thinking of sensitising St. Lucians about the possibility of a big earthquake and the tsunami that could follow.

countries including St. Lucia and Barbados were jolted by a 6.4 magnitude earthquake with the Director of the Seismic Research Unit of the University of the West Indies, Dr. Joan Latchman indicating this was the “biggest” quake to occur in the Barbados zone since 1980.

(CMC)

Jamaica to decriminalise marijuana by yearend THE Cannabis Commercial and Medicinal Research Taskforce (CCMRT) says it has been given an assurance that Jamaica will this year decriminalise marijuana as the island seeks to establish a medicinal marijuana industry.

CCMRT leader, Dealana Seiveright in a statement, said that the assurance had come from Science, Technology, Energy and Mining Minister Phillip Paulwell.

The statement quoted Paulwell as telling members of the taskforce that “ganja will be decriminalised in Jamaica this year and emphasised that Jamaica cannot be allowed to be left behind on the issue”.

“He also reiterated the multiple economic, social and cultural benefits that Jamaica stands to gain if the laws are adjusted sooner rather than later,” the statement said.

Last year, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries agreed to discuss the issue of decriminalizing marijuana for health reasons at their inter-sessional summit in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in March.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves had written to his regional leaders calling for a “reasoned debate” led

Last year, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries agreed to discuss the issue of decriminalising marijuana for health reasons at their inter-sessional summit in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in March.

by CARICOM’s political and civic leadership in the context of the legalisation of marijuana for medical and health purposes in 20 states in the United States.

But regional leaders, who met in Trinidad last September have not gone heels over Gonsalves proposals saying that a decision had been taken to have the Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat conduct

further research on the medical and legal implications of decriminalising marijuana.

The CCMRT, which includes representatives of the Ganja Law Reform Coalition, the National Alliance for the Legalisation of Ganja and several members of civil society, is chaired by University of the West Indies, Mona Principal Professor Archibald McDonald. (CMC)

Commonwealth seeking to establish trade facility to assist CARICOM countries

The BVI is in a seismically active region; its tsunami preparation work follows the news that the nearby US Virgin Islands had completed its first-ever tsunami evacuation map.

BVI nears “Tsunami Ready” certification THE British Virgin Islands (BVI) says it is in the final stages of preparation to seek “Tsunami Ready” certification from the United Statesbased National Weather Service.

The programme is designed to help communities that are vulnerable to tsunamis reduce the potential for “disastrous tsunami-related consequences.”

The BVI is in a seismically active region; its tsunami preparation work follows the news that the nearby US Virgin Islands had completed its first-ever tsunami evacuation map.

The BVI’s Department of Disaster Management has been placing tsunami evacuation signs in

vulnerable areas aimed at guiding people to the nearest assembly point in the event of a tsunami warning.

“The signs clearly state Tsunami Evacuation Route and there is an accompanying arrow to identify the route to be followed,” said Christopher Williams, technical planning officer at the Department of Disaster Management. “Signs are being placed at all major intersections to accurately guide persons to the areas that are considered safe zones.”

Sharleen DaBreo, director of the DDM, said the Tsunami Ready certification was a “natural progression” for disaster management in the British Overseas Territory.

THE Commonwealth is seeking to establish a trade facility that would benefit Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries, Commonwealth Secretary General, Kamalesh Sharma, has said.

Sharma, who held talks with CARICOM chairman and Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on Monday, said that the facility would provide to small states a facility which larger economies enjoy.

Sharma said his talks with Gonsalves, focused on economic issues, trade, the environment and disaster response and had been planned to coincide with the CARICOM inter-sessional summit that has been postponed to March 10-12.

He said the discussions also included solvency, liquidity, and debt-sustainability.

“The entire money issue, if you like, because if that is not solved, it has a huge effect on the social agenda, the budgetary pressure on health and education and this has to be prevented,” he told a news conference.

Sharma said while the question of poverty is extremely important, sustainability resilience

and vulnerability must also be emphasised.

“No country should be allowed to be in free fall, and we need supportive systems to arrest their fall,” he said, adding that the issue of trade has two components: market and productive capacity.

“We have to find a solution because the small states don’t have those instruments and those agencies which are required to facilitate and enable their own traders to produce these goods and services.”

Sharma said the Commonwealth wants the idea of capacity building to be expanded substantially as regards the environment.

“Capacity is what constrains small states and hits you everywhere.

We are told there are 19 or 20 environment-related conventions and programme, but which is the first telephone number you dial to get at them, which is the form you fill?

And when you have done it, because of your capacity constraints, who follows it up for you?” he said.

He said that the Commonwealth was also examining the area of natural disaster management, adding “this is a full field; it may not be a crowded field, but there is the United Nations, there is the World Bank,

there are other agencies working in it.

“What is it that the Commonwealth can do is very important for us to consider,” Sharma said, noting that the organisation of former British colonies recently created a high-level working group headed by former Guyana president, Bharat Jagdeo, to look into the advocacy needs of member states as they relate to the environment and the impact of climate change.

“We want to be practical in the sense of advocating greater support systems,” Sharma said, adding that the Commonwealth still doesn’t have a global environmental agency.

“There is a lot of intellectual advocacy work to be done. But, at the same time, there is money in various environment-related conventions that can be accessed. But how? We want to be of assistance to be able to access the finances for adaptation programmes and environment programmes for small countries as well,” Sharma said.

The Indian national also announced that his country will donate US$500,000 each to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Lucia, and US$300,000 to aid in the recover from the Christmas 2013 floods.

20

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

Tough EU smoking rules approved ANTI-SMOKING legislation is to be introduced across the European Union in an attempt to cut the number of smokers by 2.4 million.

The rules, voted in by the European Parliament, mean picture health warnings will have to dominate the front and back of all packaging.

There will also be a ban on flavoured, such as menthol, cigarettes.

Pro-smoking groups have criticised a “nanny state mentality”, but cancer charities have backed the measures.

An estimated 700,000 premature deaths are caused by smoking across the EU each year.

The EU Tobacco Products Directive rules include: picture warnings must cover 65% of the front and back of every packet of cigarettes, with additional warnings on the top of the pack a ban on “lipstick-style” packs aimed at women - all packs must have at least 20 cigarettes to leave room for health warnings roll-your-own tobacco packs to have similar picture warnings a ban on promotional elements, such saying “this product is free of additives” or is less harmful than other brands a ban on flavoured cigarettes, such as menthol, fruit and vanilla a maximum nicotineconcentration level for e-cigarettes.

EU-wide tracking of cigarettes to combat illegal trade Ministers are expected to endorse the rules in March, to come into force in May 2014. Member states will have two years to introduce the

Picture warnings must cover 65% of the front and back of every packet of cigarettes, with additional warnings on the top of the pack.

legislation.

The European Commission says the new rules will “deter young people from experimenting with, and becoming addicted to, tobacco” and should lead to a 2% drop in the amount smoked over the next five years.

EU Health Commissioner Tonio Borg said: “Today is a great day for EU health policy.

“The new rules will help to reduce the number of people who start smoking in the EU. “These measures put an end to products which entice children and teenagers into starting to smoke in the European Union.”

Simon Clark, the director of the pro-smoking campaign group Forest, said banning menthol cigarettes was a ban on consumer choice that “will do little” to deter children from smoking.

He also questioned the need for plain packaging legislation to

remove any branding from packs, which is being considered in some EU countries, including the UK. “If health warnings are going to be even more prominent, dominating both sides of the pack, why on Earth do we need plain packaging?” he asked.

“At the very least the government should wait and see what impact the larger warnings have before introducing standardised packs which are opposed by so many people.”

The commission said plain packaging could go ahead when “justified on grounds of public health”.

Cancer Research UK’s head of tobacco policy, Alison Cox, said: “Today is a great day for health.

The Tobacco Products Directive sets standards on tobacco which will bring real benefits for people’s health in the UK and across Europe.”

Golden Gate Bridge marks milestone with 46 suicides in 2013 San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge marked a milestone in 2013 as 46 people leaped to their deaths in what appears to be the deadliest year for suicides at the California landmark, a watchdog group said on Tuesday.

The Bridge Rail Foundation, which tracks fatalities at the 4,200-foot-long (1,280-meter) span, said the high number of suicides demonstrates the need for a safety net to be installed to make it more difficult for would-be jumpers to take their own lives there.

“I know it won’t be built soon, and that’s the most frustrating thing about this,” said Dayna Whitmer, board member with the organization.

“We hate to see any more 17-yearolds jump or 86-year-olds jump, it’s just not right.”

The road surface of the suspension bridge towers more than 220 feet above the entrance to the San Francisco Bay, and the span ranks as one of the world’s most frequently chosen sites for public suicides. It is also one of the most lethal, with

Massive 82% of Democrats want Hillary Clinton to run for President: poll A WHOPPING 82% of Democrats say they want Hillary Clinton to run for President in 2016, a new poll shows.

Only 13% of Democrats said they don’t want to see the popular former secretary of state run, the New York Times / CBS poll released Wednesday night found.

Clinton wasn’t quite as popular among self-identifying independents, 52% of those who were polled still said they want her to launch a bid.

The vice president was the clear second-place candidate — showed the poll, which surveyed Democrats, Republicans and independents last week — with 42% of Democrats saying they want him to run in 2016.

Another 39% said they didn’t want him to run.

Republicans, meanwhile, have rallied around former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, the poll found, with 41% saying they want to see him run for President in 2016. Another 27% said they would not want him to run.

Kentucky tea partier Sen. Rand Paul came in next, with 39% of Republicans polled saying they

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton seems a front runner for the Democratic party in 2016.

would like to see him run. Twentyone percent said they don’t want Paul to run.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, however, seemed to have suffered from the ongoing Bridgegate scandal. The once-presumptive 2016 GOP frontrunner registered the support of 31% of Republicans polled, while 41% said he shouldn’t run for President. (NYdailynews)

Tachira is one of the states in which the current wave of protests first kicked off.

Venezuela’s Maduro criticised by party loyalist

Officials said that 118 persons were stopped from jumping over San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. A total of 46 persons died.

jumps from the bridge nearly always proving fatal.

A spokeswoman for the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, Mary Currie, confirmed that 46 people had committed suicide at the bridge last year, the highest annual total since at

least 2000, when she began keeping an unofficial count.

View galleryThe Golden Gate Bridge is seen in the background as …

The Golden Gate Bridge is seen in the background as vehicles travel on the new east span of the San …

A SENIOR member of Venezuela’s governing United Socialist Party (PSUV) has criticised the government’s handling of recent opposition protests.

Jose Gregorio Vielma Mora - the governor of western Tachira state, where the current wave of protests began - said the deployment of troops to his region was “unacceptable”.

He also called for the release of detained student leaders.

At least 13 people have died in recent protests, officials say.

Opposition activists put the number of dead at 15, two higher than the figure given by attorney general Luisa Ortega on Monday.

In an interview with a Caracas radio station, Mr Vielma Mora said he opposed “the use of weapons and abusive behaviour at peaceful

demonstrations”.

He also said that after an “excessive use of force” by the National Guard during protests in Tachira on Thursday, he had demanded the replacement of the officer in charge, Gen Noel Bermudez Pirela.

Mr Vielma Mora did not specify which incident he was referring to, but said that a new general had since been put in charge.

The governor also said that it had been a “grave error” by the government to order military planes to fly over the state capital, San Cristobal.

“I’m against that, and it made me angry. It was unnecessary to have military planes fly over San Cristobal,” he told Radio Circuito Onda.

March 1 - 7, 2014

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

Russia flexes military muscle as tensions rise in Ukraine’s Crimea region

The Syrian war has killed more than 140,000 people and has forced millions to flee since March 2011.

Syrian government says 175 rebels killed in attack

SYRIAN government forces killed 175 rebels that it described as mostly Saudi, Qatari and Chechen “terrorists” in an ambush east of Damascus, the state-run SANA news agency reported Wednesday.

The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says it has received reports that about 70 died in the fighting in the Eastern Ghouta region.

The Observatory, which is close to the rebels, also said about 3,300 people had been killed in fighting between rebel factions so far this year.

“Some 3,300 people have been killed ever since the start of fighting

on January 3 between the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant on one side, and Islamist and other groups on the other,” it said. The deaths came in “car and (other) bomb attacks, suicide blasts and fighting”, it added.

The Eastern Ghouta, a collection of rural towns outside Damascus, is a rebel stronghold where Syrian forces are believed to have carried out a chemical weapons attack last year.

Some analysts suggest Wednesday morning’s army operation - said to have taken place near Otaybeh village - may have tightened President Bashar al-Assad’s grip on Damascus.

RUSSIA ordered surprise military exercises on Ukraine’s doorstep Wednesday as tensions in that country’s southern Crimea region simmered, with pro-Russian demonstrators facing off against rival protesters in the city of Simferopol.

As the mood soured among the thousands rallying in front of the Crimean parliament building in Simferopol, some scuffles broke out.

One group waved Ukrainian flags and shouted “Crimea is not Russia,” while the other held Russian flags aloft and shouted “Crimea is Russia,” images broadcast by Crimean TV channel ATR showed. As the crowd became more agitated, a line of police moved in to divide the groups.

Local leaders sought to calm the mood, urging the protesters to go home and resist provocations.

One man died around the time of the protests in front of parliament, the Crimean Ministry of Health said on its website. The man had no visible signs of injury, and early indications point to a heart attack, it said. Seven people sought medical help.

The demonstrations signal the broad divide between those who support what is going on in Kiev, where the new government is leaning toward the West, and those who back Russia’s continued influence in Crimea and across Ukraine.

Ukraine could soon be split since parts of the country supports the new government, while other parts are behind Russia and the former administration.

In the capital Wednesday, the names of nominees for the country’s new unity government were read to the crowd in Independence Square. Opposition leader Arseniy Yatsenyuk was named as a nominee for interim prime minister, while activist Dmytro Bulatov was put forward as sports minister.

Candidates are expected to be voted on in parliament Thursday.

Russia’s foreign minister has vowed not to intervene militarily in Ukraine.

But with tensions in the region high, Russian President Vladimir

Putin ordered surprise military exercises.

The exercises are “to check combat readiness of armed forces in western and central military districts as well as several branches of the armed forces,” Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu was quoted as saying by state media.

Shoigu did not mention Ukraine, which lies to Russia’s west, but the timing of the move has prompted speculation about the motivation.

Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense declined to comment on the exercises since they are on Russian territory.

Lee Rigby murder: Adebolajo and Adebowale jailed

A family sits outside their destroyed house, on February 11 in Bujumbura, after flooding and landslides caused by a night of torrential rain swept away hundreds of homes and killed at scores of people.

Flooding kills nearly 70 in Burundi AT LEAST 69 people, including children, have been killed in the central Africa nation of Burundi because of torrential rains, an aid group said Thursday.

The rains have triggered mudslides, swept away some homes and caused others to collapse, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said in a statement.

More than 180 people have been injured, the group said, adding that it would expect to see more casualties as rescue teams reach more of the affected areas.

The storm is causing chaos in and

around the capital of Bujumbura.

Close to 20,000 people have been displaced and more than 2,000 families have been left homeless, the aid group said. Roads and crops have also been damaged.

“Today, we call upon all charitable people who have historically shown solidarity with Burundi to again come forward. We need temporary shelter. We need hygiene kits and we need kitchen sets. People are destitute. We absolutely have to find the means to assist these people,” said Pamphile Kantabaze, secretary general of the Burundi Red Cross Society. (CNN)

MICHAEL Adebolajo has been given a whole-life term and Michael Adebowale has been jailed for a minimum of 45 years for murdering Fusilier Lee Rigby.

Adebolajo, 29, and Adebowale, 22, drove into Fusilier Rigby with a car before hacking him to death in Woolwich, south-east London, in May last year.

The judge, Mr Justice Sweeney, said Adebolajo’s was one of those “rare cases” warranting a whole-life term.

The pair were absent during sentencing after a fracas in the dock.

As Mr Justice Sweeney began to sentence the men they started shouting and scuffling with court security guards. They had to be forced to the ground and were removed from court.

Fusilier Rigby’s family wept as Adebolajo shouted “Allahu Akbar”, and Adebowale called out “that’s a lie” as the judge told them their extremist views were “a betrayal of Islam”.

One relative needed medical treatment after the outbursts. The judge later apologised for the fact that the family had to witness what happened in the dock.

Sentencing the killers in their

Michael Adebolajo (centre) and Michael Adebowale (right) have been found guilty of the murder of British soldier Lee Rigby (left).

absence, the judge said they had been convicted on “overwhelming” evidence of the “barbaric” murder of Fusilier Rigby.

The British Muslim converts had “butchered” the 25-year-old soldier, he said.

Adebolajo was the leader of the “joint enterprise”, the judge said, but Adebowale played his part “enthusiastically”.

Mr Justice Sweeney said the pair carried out the murder “in a way that

would generate maximum media coverage”.

“He had done absolutely nothing to deserve what you did to him”, the judge said. The pair created “a bloodbath”, he went on, adding: “You both gloried in what you had done.

“Your sickening and pitiful conduct was in stark contrast to the women at the scene who tended to Lee Rigby’s body and challenged what you had done.” (BBC)

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March 1 - 7, 2014

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23

24 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

North Caicos leads the way in local food production MAKING the Turks and Caicos Islands food secure, providing gainful employment and a useful skill for interested youths are just some of the things North Caicos farmer, Courtney Missick is hoping to do with the opening of his new farm.

Last Saturday (February 22) the Issac Organic Farm was commissioned in North Caicos at a ceremony that saw Government officials, the Opposition, business and hotel industries, the clergy, Missick’s mother, relatives and scores of North Caicos residents in attendance.

The Minorca Hill location on Whitby Road is a 10 acre spread and is named in honour of Missick’s late father.

When the operation gets up and running it will be producing eggs from chickens hatched and raised at Missick’s other farm in Kew, as well as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

Missick said he hopes to have the operation up and running by August, and that he is currently awaiting final approval from the Planning Department as well as additional financing.

One of Missick’s major financial backers is Canadian, Steve Posthumus. The Posthumus family has been in the agriculture business for over 50 years and currently operates an agricultural company in Leamington, Ontario.

Meanwhile Beaches TCI – another significant supporter - is supplying the materials for the chicken pens.

A section of the gathering at Saturday’s opening of the TCI’s first organic farm in North Caicos

Beaches, which already buys peppers from the Kew farm, will be supplied with eggs when the new operation gets off the ground.

“The chicken house would take about three months the most to get up and running, so round about in August we should have it up and the same time while we’re working on the chicken houses we will be running the irrigation and putting in the trees for the fruit.”

He said there are about three acres of the land that are already ploughed and waiting to be weeded and cleared in order to have the trees planted. Arrangements have already been put in place for the supply of fresh water on the land.

SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY As to what this means for North Caicos, Missisk sees it as a means of providing cheaper food and gainful employment for many young men.

“It is a chance for them to learn something; not only in North but in Middle as well. I’ll be able to educate them and they would be able to lease land from Government and start something.”

The North Caicos farmer is also keen on assisting anyone who is willing to start up his or her own backyard garden.

He has made a commitment to provide seeds (at an affordable price), knowledge and other assistance to anyone. He has also promised to deliver the seeds to interested persons.

As for the method to be used for growing produce on the farm, Missick said the manure from the chicken would be used to fertilise the farm to cut down on the use of synthetic fertiliser.

His intention with this venture is to feed the Turks and Caicos Islands. He can be reached at (649) 242-2290 or 341-1094 or email cmmissick5081@hotmail.com.

Steve Posthumus told the gathering that he is excited to join in Missick’s venture. He said too that he and his wife have decided to make the TCI their permanent home.

“Our family at the present time operates an agricultural company located in the GreenHouse capital of Canada – Leamington, Ontario.

It’s a family run agricultural waste recycling company.”

Posthumus said over the last few years of coming to the TCI, the family still sees an opportunity which has instilled in them a desire to get involved with the people who see

agriculture and its related industry as a must for the country.

However, he said a paradigm shift is needed in the agriculture industry and that working together is integral.

“The potential here in TCI… is unbelievable folks; the potential here is unbelievable. Others have seen it and voiced it many times and then people get in the way…

“We can and we must bring in modern technology to surpass the norm and not go against change which is good, to see a successful industry. And if there are stumbling blocks, remove them.”

He said the country must do its best to provide as much locally grown products of all kinds that it can, as it lessens the risk of dependence on others and sets a plan for the future.

Posthumus also voiced his family’s firm commitment to supporting all local farmers. He added that stepping stones for growth in the industry need to be provided for the youth.

Public relations manager for Beaches and the Sandals Foundation, Elanor Finfin Krzanowski delivered remarks on behalf of the managing director Donald Dagenais.

She said the resort is proud to attach its brand to the initiative.

The resort caters to more than 3,000 in any given week and over 98 per cent of the food products offered at the hotel are imported, Krzanowski said.

“If we have local farmers investing and producing food for us to supply to our guests imagine how profitable that would be. So this is a stepping stone; it may be a baby step but it’s definitely a step in the right direction.”

She informed the gathering that not only has Beaches committed to purchasing the products produced at the farm, but that they will also be turning one of their restaurants into an organic restaurant. This was met with rousing applause.

Meanwhile, a representative from IGA supermarkets - which Missick currently supplies – also offered their congratulations and promised their

March 1 - 7, 2014 continued their support.

Minister of Agriculture, Amanda Missick was among the many officials who came out to support and congratulate Missick.

She recalled his tenacity and passion for farming and added that his current venture would prove to be beneficial to the entire TCI. “I want to encourage the residents of North Caicos to patronise Mr Missick’s business. As a Government, we pledge to support our local farmers; we are seeking to develop and introduce the local farm here in North Caicos as a research unit so that we can be of help to the local farmers.”

Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson also delivered congratulations to Missick and the Posthumus family.

“One thing we can say about Reverend Courtney Missick is that he is certainly consistent and committed to the cause of showing what can be done and what should be done in the area of agriculture for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

She said the PDM would support all initiatives to advance agriculture, as the party believes farming is critical to a growing nation.

She wants serious steps to be taken to move the TCI away from the unenviable position of having to import more than 90 per cent of its food items.

“We trust this year that we will see the long awaited Director of Agriculture, a final policy which remains in draft and certainly a piece of legislation that will move this industry forward,” Cartwright Robinson said.

PDM Chairman, Clarence Selver - in her absence - read Governor appointed member in the House of Assembly, Lillian Misick’s message.

“The name Courtney Missick conjures a picture in my mind of a man diligently working in his field, nurturing each plant with the tenderness and affection one bestows upon its offspring.”

Misick recalled that the journey was not without its challenges for

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS the North Caicos farmer. She said as manager for the small business development she witnessed the frustration he experienced in trying to get the access to farm the land.

“He did all the rights; but he finally overcame the obstacles.

Courtney symbolises perseverance and I see him embodied in Herman Sherman’s code of persistence.”

She expressed the hope that other Islanders will see this as an example, recognise how important farming is to the survival of the country, and follow Missick’s lead.

The parliamentary member also said she hopes the Government will get on board and make land available to people interested in pursuing farming, irrespective of their affiliation.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance said the TCI Government is fully behind subsidising productive industries.

“I believe agriculture is important for a number of reasons; key to that is food security.”

He said the Director of Agriculture is set to start work this week and that the agriculture policy will be first thing that will be enacted.

“It is important for us to develop – not only agriculture policy - but how we connect that policy and the production of agricultural products to the end user.”

He commended Beaches for taking the initiative to support Missick’s venture and called on more businesses to give the same support.

The students of the Hubert James Primary School in North Caicos provided light entertainment by way of a lovely rendition of Amazing Grace. This was later followed by an aptly named poetic tribute to Missick from Cynclair Musgrove, titled ‘Missionary Man’.

Lovey Forbes provided the musical entertainment during the ceremony and afterwards attendees were treated to lunch and drinks at the site. A tour of the Kew farm was also conducted by Missick later in the day. (DI)

NEWS 25

Opposition leader, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Deputy Leader of the PDM (in white t-shirt), Sean Astwood and other attendees as they enjoy a tour of Courtney Missick’s farm in Kew

Owner of Issac Organic Farm, Courtney Missick (extreme right) watches on as a few of his many supporters unveil the sign to his new farm

Deputy Governor honours 14 school principals FOURTEEN principals from TCI’s Government schools are the centre of the Deputy Governor’s monthly public sector spotlight for February 2014.

Deputy Governor and Head of the TCI public service, Anya Williams, said the headteachers are the highest ranking administrators in their establishments.

They are also responsible for managing staffing and students’ schedules, the school curriculum, financial operations, maintenance and the school policy.

Williams said: “That in some cases they have dedicated over 30 years of their life to the TCI education system certainly deserves to be recognised.

“As principals they have often played the role of secondary parents, caregivers, providers, teachers and mentors to our

students.”

Williams said that they have significant management responsibilities in terms of looking after not only 320 teachers around the Islands, but also the welfare of some 4,047 students.

She said: “So this month we salute these remarkable individuals, we say thank you to them for the important and selfless job that they do every day and on behalf of the entire civil service, the Government and the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands we want to say that we truly appreciate you.”

The Deputy Governor encouraged everyone to support the upcoming Education Week events led by Minister of Education Akierra Missick under the theme ‘Promoting Education through Teacher Appreciation’.

Officials turning the sod at Issac Organic Farm - owner Courtney Missick, his mother Helen Missick, Finance Minister Washington Misick, Agriculture Minister Amanda Missick, supporter Steve Posthumus and PR manager for Beaches TCI, Elanor Finfin Krzanowski.

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March 1 - 7, 2014

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sheridan receiving his Silver Star

Soldier with TCI roots awarded Silver Star for heroics in Afghanistan MASTER Sergeant Delorean Sheridan, a soldier with TCI roots, was commemorated with a Silver Star for his heroic actions in Afghanistan recently.

The ceremony was held at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina, where Sheridan was assigned to the 21st Special Tactics Squadron.

Master Sgt Sheridan still cannot remember the sound of the machine gun that killed his comrade, he told the Air Force Times in a recent interview.

But he remembers how the smoke rose with each round and he remembers the thought played over and over in his head until the insurgent lay dead: “I have to junk the shooter before he kills all of us.”

Sheridan was in Afghanistan’s Wardak Province preparing for a mission with Army Special Forces and Afghan security forces last March when an Afghan national police officer turned his gun on the team.

Within moments, about 20 insurgents from the outside base began firing at US forces and their Afghan counterparts in a coordinated insider attack.

Sheridan is said to have acted instantly by leaping into the turret of an armoured vehicle and shooting the turncoat 11 times before turning his attention to his wounded teammates.

He then darted into the firefight three times to pull his comrades to

safety.

The combat controller called in six medevac flights and still managed to direct close air support overhead, which resulted in the deaths of four more enemies.

These heroic actions earned Sheridan a Silver Star, the military’s third highest honour for gallantry in combat.

Also accepting a Silver Star that day was fellow Pope combat controller Staff Sgt Christopher Baradat, credited with saving the lives of 150 friendly forces when he left the safety of his compound and stepped into the middle of a firefight during a mission in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, last April.

Sheridan and Baradat mark the special tactics community’s 27th and 28th Silver Stars since the end of the Vietnam War, the Air Force said.

In an interview with the Air Force Times on January 21, Sheridan said a cup of coffee and a thank you would have been plenty.

He considers himself an average combat controller and credits his training with how he reacted that day.

He said: “I can’t begin to talk about how rigorous the training is.

It’s that way intentionally… I would expect anyone else who was in my shoes to do what I did if not better.”

Sheridan is the son of Edith Richie, who is the daughter of Turks and Caicos Islander Gladys Mills.

(DH)

27

28

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FLOWER GIRL

March 1 - 7, 2014

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

TIKI HUT Is looking a

Is looking for a Part-time

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

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

Contact: 231-3788

FOR SALE

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

contact: 941-5341

9349

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

March 1 - 7, 2014 is looking for a

Labourer to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 9411881 or 432-2830

Production Services Supervisor

HAYES ELEVATOR LTD.

ELEVATOR MECHANIC

Minimum 10 yrs experience in film/ video production Salary: Commission based, Hours determined by project and can be up to 44 hrs per week.

Contact: 247-6786

9358

JOB VACANCIES Senior Pharmacist and Staff Pharmacist

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in pharmacy from an internationally recognized university.

- Eligible to register with the TCI Health Practitioners Board and MPS. - Recent experience managing a pharmacy business required for the senior position.

- At least five years’ experience in community pharmacy.

- Excellent IT skills including use of POS and Kroll or similar.

- Able to work long shifts including weekends and holidays.

- Salary commensurate with experience ranging $45-60K

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

• Must be certified I.U.E.C Elevator Mechanic or C.E.T. Certificate • Minimum of 5 years experience in repairing all elevator equipments • Must be willing to work 5 days per week Salary $40.00 per hour

interested contact 649 231 0242 and submit resume to islandsolutions@tciway.tc

9348

Brama Kumaris

Is looking for an

Qualified Pharmacy Technician

- Must have pharmacy technician qualification plus 3 years post qualification experience.

- Registered or eligible for registration with the TCI Health Practitioners Board.

- CXC grade 1 or 2 or equivalent in maths, English and science.

- Will be required to pass a pharmacy technician exam paper as part of interview process.

- Duties will include accurate dispensing, use of dispensary software, maintenance of pharmacy stock, NHIP billing, handling OTC enquiries - Willing to work long shifts, weekends and holidays.

- $10-$15 per hour depending on experience and qualifications

Please send cover letter, resume and copies of qualifications to jobs@ flamingopharmacy.com. Closing date March 1st 2014. Belongers only need apply.

The Meridian Club On Pine Cay

Turks & Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: info@meridianclub.com Email: manager@meridianclub.com Ph:649-941-7011 Fax: 649-941-7010

Position Available Housekeeper at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay Salary: $5.50/hr +. depending upon training, experience, work record and capability.

Room, board and necessary boat transportation to and from Pine Cay included.

Duties: include cleaning guest rooms and public areas; laundry; cleaning private residences, and such

Qualifications Required:

Must be able to communicate in English Must be in good health and able to lift bundles of up to 30#.

Must be skilled in handling all duties specified above.

Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay. Must be willing to work holidays and weekends.

Must be neat, tidy, have attention for detail

Starting Date: May 2014 Contact Person and Contact Information: Beverly Plachta, Resort Manager. Please fax resume and 3 references with your contact information (mailing address, e-mail address, phone number) to 649-941-7010 or email manager@meridianclub.com .

Additional Information: Qualified Belongers preferred. All qualified applicants will be interviewed.

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com 9354

LA VISTA AZUL

- - - - - -

CLASSIFIEDS 29

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ETS Ltd. wishes to recruit a

Technical Coordinator Duties include coordinating the technical operations of a multifaceted, threepronged consultancy firm, developing operational procedures and logistics, drafting contracts, managing the operation of activities in line with established procedures and budgets, preparation and review of project implementation and reports, and liaise with clients both locally and internationally etc.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Business Management or related field, minimum 10 years experience in technical operations & business management, accounting experience, must be computer literate, punctual, responsible and have the ability to work on your own initiative, valid TCI driver’s license, own transportation, willing to work weekends and holidays, & clean police record. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Please forward resume to the Manager, ETS Ltd., Long Bay, Providenciales or email them to consult@ets.tc.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

9350

30 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 1 - 7, 2014

JOB VACANCIES

Seven Stars is seeking suitably qualified candidates to fill the positions outlined below. The ideal candidate must possess experience in a luxury resort environment, as well as a professional, outgoing and friendly demeanor with a strong command of the English language (oral and written). Salary is based on education, experience and qualifications.

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & M.I.S

Responsible for overall management of accounting, purchasing, and IT functions, including, but not limited to safeguarding the resorts financial, intellectual and tangible assets, strategic planning and budgeting, and development of internal controls and procedures. The Finance Director provides functional guidance to the Executive Committee and Department Heads interacts with the resort’s legal counsel, insurance providers and auditors to effectively manage the assets of the business and provide business support.

Requirements: • Suitable candidates must have Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance, Accounting or related discipline, plus a recognized accounting qualification, ACA/CPA • 15 years post-qualification experience, and hotel audit experience mandatory • Minimum 10 years at the Director level • Strong understanding of IT, with previous departmental oversight mandatory.

• Extensive knowledge of POS systems, Visual 1 software experience preferred

SECURITY/LOSS PREVENTION MANAGER

To take overall responsibility for security and health & safety management within the resort in accordance with Company procedures. Responsible for managing security operations on a daily basis.

Areas of responsibilities include the protection and safety of property assets, employees, guests and accident and fire prevention and response. Assist the Duty Manager with daily matters arising as required. Responsible for the management, updating and communication of the Hotel Crisis Management Manual. Displays leadership in guest hospitality, exemplifies excellent customer service and creates a positive atmosphere for guests and employees.

Requirements: • Ex-Military with Officer Rank and a minimum of 5 years’ experience in the security/loss prevention manager role or related professional area.

• Strong understanding of all Corporate Security Safety and Security Management guidelines and procedures.

• Able to work flexible hours and weekends.

DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS

Seven Stars Resort is currently seeking a highly qualified, hands-on, Director of Information Technology for its resort client. The ideal candidate will play a lead role in the development, delivery and implementation of key business applications. This individual will have a keen understanding of hospitality technology and will be responsible for identifying solutions for the resort’s current and future business needs.

Minimum Requirements • Strong understanding of technology architecture, IT business models, systems development and life cycles with an ability to set the direction of the Resorts IT function

• Degree in Information Technology, Engineering or other technical field OR 15 years leadership experience working with IT and telephony applications, hospitality experience highly desired • 10 years Mitel experience coupled with IPTV applications experience • Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in a fastpaced, deadline-driven environment • Working knowledge of Visual One, Micros and/or Opera Fidelio • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, Outlook) • Critical thinker with complex problem-solving abilities • Strong leadership skills with the ability to “see the big picture,” evaluate technologies and identify business solutions strategies • Ability to develop and manage strong working relationships at all levels of the organization, as well as with external vendors and suppliers • Ability to communicate technical issues to nontechnical internal customers and executives, and translate their needs into appropriate applications • Ability to assess technology alternatives and identify and implement applicable solutions • Ability to develop, track and adhere to budgets

LEAD BEACH BUTLER

The Lead Beach Butler is a key element in team of professionals striving to deliver a level of personalized service that exceeds not only the expectation of the guest but will add a point of difference from the service provided anywhere else within the resort. The position of a lead butler provides a very personal, detailed, seamless service to guests. The Lead Butler will take care of guests needs in highly professional manner.

Requirements: • A minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Lead Butler in a 5 Star Resort.

• CPR and First Aid certification preferred • Excellent communication and organizational skills • Strong interpersonal and problem solving abilities • Highly responsible & reliable • Ability to focus attention on guest needs, remaining calm and courteous at all times.

WATERSPORTS INSTRUCTOR

As a Watersports Instructor you will work within a close team to deliver an activity programme to adults and children in the water. Activities delivered include Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Paddle boarding. You will be responsible for provision of activities ensuring delivery in a safe enthusiastic manner, exceeding guest expectations. A physically demanding role which involves carrying, rigging and lifting. You will rotate responsibilities of instructing, safety cover, working the beach, being on rescue. Broad knowledge and plenty of patience are important for coaching the varied abilities.

Your responsibilities will also include the maintenance and upkeep of the water sports equipment.

Requirements • Must be able to instruct in paddle board, hobie cat, kayak and windsurfing.

• Must be able to rig hobie cat.

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Watersports Instructor in a 5 Star Resort.

• Hold a First Aid Certificate.

• Applicant must be physically fit and be able to stand for 8 hours a day.

• Good Swimmer.

• Must be able to swim 300 yards in under 5 minutes and swim 20 yards, free dive to 10 feet, retrieve a 10lb weight and swim back to vessel within 1 minute.

• An approachable and friendly attitude, ability to work well within a team and be willing to assist in any other duties if necessary.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGER

We are actively recruiting an Outlet and Banquets Manager who will provide hands-on oversight for a popular outdoor, beachside resort restaurant and event outlet. The incumbent will ensure guest service and financial goals are met or exceeded. He or she must be flexible to work long hours as business demands, and must be able to manage banquet activities from inception to completion. The successful candidate will assist other restaurants or bars within the resort and will work a shift schedule with rotating off days.

Requirements • Hospitality Degree or equivalent combined experience and education.

• Minimum 5-7 years proven restaurant management and banqueting experience within a resort environment.

• Demonstrated ability to work with and engage multicultural/multi-ethnic teams and guests.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, excellent command of the English language.

• Pleasant, outgoing personality with the ability to handle the pressure of a fast-paced environment.

• Knowledge of Bar setup and costing.

• Quality oriented with focus on details and high performance standards.

• Flexibility to work rotating shifts.

• Strong knowledge of food costing and working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Infogenesis POS system.

FOOD & BEVERAGE DIRECTOR

The Food & Beverage Director will be responsible for coordinating, supervising and directing all F&B and catering operations in a multi-outlet environment consisting of fine and casual dining - breakfast, lunch and dinner. You will be responsible for maintaining profitable operations without sacrificing our high standard of food and quality. The F&B Director will be responsible for business development and retention, and for maintaining payroll and revenue targets.

The successful candidate will be sociable and outgoing, and have the ability to manage the discriminating guest while delivering superior customer service. Must be professional in demeanor and delivery. Exceptional communication skills are a must. This position is a member of the resort’s senior leadership team. Excellent organization and follow through is required, as is prior Caribbean experience.

To be successful in this role, the following requirements must be met: • 5-7 years F&B management experience overseeing multiple outlets in a five-star Caribbean resort along

Continued ►

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 31

JOB VACANCIES Continued ► with culinary experience to Executive Chef level.

• Relevant culinary degree experience and education, with a strong background in food service • Thorough knowledge of F&B standards and practices within a luxury resort environment • Excellent knowledge of fine dining, wines and wine service • Proven leader with exceptional supervisory skills, including the ability to motivate, train and develop staff • Sales, marketing and budgeting expertise, including scheduling and food/labour costing • Working knowledge of MS Office, Visual One and Infogenises • References required

by the Executive Chef • Properly receiving, storing and rotating food products in compliance with HACCP standards • Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of all kitchen and food and beverage areas • Monitoring and controlling the maintenance and sanitation of kitchen equipment • Physical ability to lift, carry, move, push or pull heavy items up to 100 lbs • Working in confined spaces with extreme temperatures (hot or cold)

RESTAURANT MANAGER

This position is responsible for coordinating all essential duties related to the ordering, loading, receiving, storing, inventorying, and issuance of all Food and Beverage products. The ideal candidates will be accountable for preserving quality and quantity control of inventoried items. Ensure facilities are kept neat, clean, and professional at all times by living our 7S culture. Analyze problems and recommend solution(s).

The manager is responsible for leading departmentlevel restaurant operations; models and demonstrates leadership skills to company standards. Successful performance is measured by consistent delivery of balanced results through our systems, methods and procedures from the perspective of all our stakeholders.

This leads to sustained growth in sales and profits achieved through personal, people, business and results leadership.

Requirements: • Must have a minimum of 10 years’ experience as Restaurant Manager or Maitre D in a high end or FiveStar Restaurant.

• Current, salaried management experience in a highvolume full service restaurant is preferred • Strong passion for culinary excellence and guest service • Proven ability to develop team • Knowledge of systems, methods and processes that contribute to great execution • Stable job history which demonstrates upward career and salary progression • Knowledge of Wine and Spirits • Staff Scheduling and labor cost control’s

SOUS CHEF

Candidate must possess a minimum of 2 years’ experience, and be hardworking, dependable individuals with a passion for hospitality. A strong work ethic and excellent culinary knowledge are required. A culinary degree or relevant training is vital. Fine dining experience within a five-star resort environment is essential. The ideal candidate will be team players who work exceptionally well in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities may include, but not be limited to: • Assisting in the creation and planning of menus and specials • Preparing, seasoning and cooking salads, soups, fish, meats, vegetables and other foods.

• Participating in the preparation, cooking and baking of menu items • Properly displaying and presenting food as designated

MASTER STOREROOM MANAGER

Requirements: • 3 years’ experience as Master Storeroom Manager at a reputable hotel, or at comparable firm that stores high volume of merchandise.

• In order to have the required food knowledge candidate must have worked as a minimum as Executive Sous Chef in a fine dining restaurant • Knowledge of public health standards related to storeroom management of Hotel items.

• Responsible for ensuring proper disbursement of merchandise from the storeroom following the pickup times established in the internal requisitioning timetable for Food and Bar Departments.

• Must have the ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.

• Must be able to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

• Conducts storerooms spot check to ensure items are correctly stored in order to minimize deterioration and waste and to maximize storing and space efficiencies.

• Responsible for researching and reporting to the Inventory Manager any physical count discrepancies, spoilage, and breakage of Food and Beverage inventoried items.

• Responsible for ensuring proper rotation of merchandise using FIFO (first in – first out) procedures and monitoring shelf-life of all Food and Beverage products.

• Develop and implement strategic plans with internal and external customers.

• Knowledge of chemical storage guidelines.

• Computer knowledge; proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

Closing Date: March 7, 2014

Suitably qualified candidates should apply via e-mail to Seven Stars Resort at

hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration. Candidates must possess relevant skills, experience, and a clean police record.

ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.

VACANCY Position is available for:

Metal Framing Mechanic

The candidate must have the following requirements: - Minimum 10 years experience as a metal framer; - Formatting, installing and inspecting all metal studs, framing and roofing; - Willing to work long hours, overnights and weekends.

Salary range: $10 - $15 per hour

Application must be submitted to: evt@tciway.tc or call 649-946-5414 Deadline: March 31, 2013

9365

SAUCIER NEEDED Applicants must have formal culinary experience. Must be able to perform mathematical calculations in order to convert recipes and inventory. Must have highly advanced culinary and artistic skills, full comprehension of entire kitchen departments and product identification.

Must have experience in regional Italian cuisine and be knowledgeable about produce, spices and oils found throughout the region. Fully trained in the proper health and hygiene regulations in regards to staff, kitchen cleanliness, storage and handling of food. Must be willing to work irregular hours, shifts and long late hours. $10/hr depending on experience and qualifications.

Contact Global Services at (649) 331-1809

Labourer

Needed Bonded Warehouse facility requires a labourer. Duties include general cleaning, maintenance and movement of cargo. Salary: Starting at $6:00 per hour for 40 hour work-week.

Please contact Cargo Express Services, in person, at 70 South Dock Road or fax Application to 941-5525 Application deadline: March 7, 2014 9352

32 CLASSIFIEDS

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EDWIN HERNANDEZ Acting on behalf of our clients:

The Meridian Club On Pine Cay

La Familia Restaurant Jose Ovando Construction Caribbean Beauty Supply Dominique Beauty Salon & Spa, Dieriger Longmire

Turks & Caicos Islands British West Indies

Is looking to fill the following positions:

1 Cosmetologist/ Hairdresser 1 Kitchen Helper 1 Sales Person 1 Domestic Worker 1 Computer Technician

Positions Available at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay:

Note: The Meridian Club operations include a hotel and home rental operation, along with restaurant, bar, guest excursion, marine, maintenance, gardening, commissary, K-9 security and housekeeping services. We handle all reservations and some marketing services in-house. Given our size and limited housing capacity, we cannot afford to have management personnel for each area of operations, so this is a unique position requiring multiple skills and obligations. Hours in this position are those necessary for proper operation of the resort and island 7 days per week throughout season. This employee must be available at all hours for emergency response and therefore must reside full time on-island.

Duties of Resort Manager and Homeowner Liaison: Day to day management of the resort, including, but not limited to, the hotel, cottages in the rental pool, restaurant, gift shop and commissary; oversee all operations incidental thereto, including, but not limited to, reservations, marketing, guest services and staff performance in resort operations; Coordinate and oversee administration of homeowner maintenance and marine services in conjunction with Assistant Island Manager and report to homeowners on status of their projects. Assume primary responsibility for guest, homeowner and staff transfers to and from Pine Cay; Ensure and coordinate staff training, develop on-going training program for all levels of resort service staff, including reception, reservations, housekeeping, bar and wait staff; Conduct staff performance reviews, as necessary, for such staff members; Coordinate security needs for resort with Head of Security Department; Respond, as necessary, to security issues and health emergencies involving guests, homeowners, staff and other persons on island; Provide first aid procedures when necessary and coordinate evacuation of injured or ill persons requiring greater medical care to Provo; Arrange special functions for guests and homeowners; Dine with guests on a regular basis and monitor guest and homeowner satisfaction with food service and quality; Monitor and ensure proper sanitation and cleanliness on island, including, without limitation, in and about the hotel, restaurant, commissary, staff quarters, staff kitchen and staff recreation center. Assist in management of the hiring process to bring in qualified candidates as positions become available; Ensure proper conduct of resort staff and their compliance with the Employment Manual; Ensure compliance with all applicable TCI laws regarding employment of resort staff, and resort operations; Conduct or help coordinate staff meetings to discuss important issues involving staff; Conduct and/or participate in staff disciplinary proceedings as needed; Help with the supervision of all aspects of resort administration, including accounting; Assist in preparation of annual budgets for Resort operations and perform such other functions as may be necessary to ensure proper operation of the island and resort. Report as requested or necessary, on resort operations and homeowner services to the Board.

Qualifications Required for Resort Manager and Homeowner Liaison: - Minimum of 4 year bachelor’s degree from accredited college or university or equivalent hospitality industry experience of not less than 10 years in 5-star properties.

- Minimum of 5 to 10 years experience as general manager of 4-5 star resort.

- Must have experience in home rentals and managing homeowner requests and expectations.

- Must be skilled in handling all duties specified above.

- Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay on a full time basis, 24 hrs/day.

- Must have at least 5 years experience in resort marketing operations.

- Must have at least 5 years experience in managing resort reservation operations.

- Must have at least 5 years experience in preparing resort operational budgets.

- Computer literate in Quickbooks, Excel and Word.

- Must have training in first aid and emergency resuscitation techniques.

- Must be willing to work evenings when necessary and remain available for emergencies at all times.

- Private island work experience desirable due to isolation factor.

- Must be willing to take K-9 training courses.

Salary $5-$7 per hour

Contact: 346-3918 BELONGER ONLY NEED APPLY

Salary: Commensurate with education, training, experience, work record and capability. Minimum salary $38,000/yr.

Island Engineer - Pine Cay

FOR RENT

Duties of Island Engineer: The Island Engineer is responsible for working in coordination with the Assistant Island Manager in supporting and supervising all aspects of island maintenance and infrastructure projects, including, but not limited to, managing the maintenance of the island, resort, homeowner properties, restaurant, gift shop, commissary and island security and marine operations. Responsible for all physical plant operations, including electrical, HVAC and refrigeration systems, generator backup systems, plumbing, waste management, fire suppression systems, vehicle maintenance, masonry and construction projects. In coordination with the Assistant Island Manager, assist in the management and evaluation of island infrastructure projects as directed by Board. Ensure and coordinate maintenance staff training, develop ongoing training program for all levels of maintenance staff positions, including safety training. Monitor and ensure proper sanitation and cleanliness on island, including, without limitation, in and about the hotel, restaurant, commissary, staff quarters, staff kitchen and staff recreation center. In conjunction with the Assistant Island Manager, report as necessary, on resort maintenance operations to the Board.

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664 ADELINE CESAR Is looking for a

Desired Skill set: Training and experience in performing, scheduling and supervising carpentry, plumbing, painting, masonry, electrical, flooring, HVAC and refrigeration systems, sheet metal work, roofing, fire suppression systems, rebuilding pumps and motors, servicing kitchen and laundry equipment, diesel generators, water and sewage treatment plants, vehicle and heavy equipment repairs and maintenance, compressed air systems.

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

Qualifications Required for Island Engineer: - Hands-on multi-tasker with minimum of 15 years in performing and/ or supervising hospitality and restaurant facilities operations and maintenance with skill sets listed above.

- Must have at least 10 years experience in construction project management and working with subcontractors.

- Must be willing to reside on Pine Cay on a full time basis, 24 hrs/day.

- Must have first aid and emergency resuscitation training.

- Must be willing to work evenings as necessary and remain available for emergencies at all times.

- Experience working on private island desirable.

contact: 341-3796

9356

G-SPOT

is looking for a

Salary: Commensurate with education, training, experience, work record and capability. Minimum salary $40,000/yr.

Starting Date for Both Positions: Upon acceptance.

Contact Person and Contact Information: Jahmal Misick at Misick & Stanbrook. Please send: 1. Resume + copy of passport with your contact information (mailing address, e-mail address, phone number) 2. Several references with contact information and a statement of how you know each person named, by e-mail to jahmal@misickstanbrook.tc or deliver to the attention of Jahmal Misick at Misick & Stanbrook, Richmond House, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands 3. Please respond no later than March 14, 2014 Additional Information: All qualified applicants will be interviewed.

9341

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

contact: 241-0611

9364

Resort Manager and Homeowner Liaison

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

VACANCIES

CLASSIFIEDS 33 YRAMANA DOSSAUS CASABLANCA WILLIAMS CASINO is looking for a is looking for a

R & R Motor Sales & Rentals is seeking employment for the following:

1) MEchanic

Starting Salary is negotiable. Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@ gmail.com for further details regarding employment.

Estel Plumbing is seeking employment for the following:

1) Plumber

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com further details regarding employment LEXA SOUNDS is seeking employment for the following:

2) Musician

Interested candidate may contact 441-3030 for further details regarding employment.

GENERAL LABOURER NEEDED Domestic Worker Duties includes general cleaning, maintenance and to lifting of cargo. To work 6 days per week including weekends and holidays.

Salary is commensurate with experience.

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

labourer

Contact telephone: 9416-5300 9509

contact: 341-0741

Contact: 244-4665 Monday-Friday 9am-4pm

POSITION AVAILABLE

Barry Fashion Shop is seeking employment for the following:

1) Sale Person

Interested candidate may contact 343-2559 for further details regarding employment.

Ivanelle Jeannette Francois is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Interested candidate may contact 341-1590 for further details regarding employment.

3 DOMESTIC WORKERS 2 DIVE MASTERS 1 DIVE INSTRUCTOR 3 LABORERS 3 GARDENERS SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR CONTACT: 3430572 FOR DETAILS 9363

Interested candidate must contact the number advertise for further details regarding employment.

Ricardo Fulford Immigration and Labour Consultant President of Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services ricardofulford@gmail.com (649) 346-1125

TENDER NOTICE INSURANCE

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

9507

MEPCO TCI Requires an

Electrical Supervisor Must have at least 15 years experience in commercial and residential electrical installations and at least 10 years experience at a supervisory level on large scale commercial buildings.

Must be available to work after hours, weekends and holidays. Salary negotiable.

Please fax resume to 941 7626

9512

SOMMELIER FOR PRIVATE VILLA

A sommelier is required for a private villa • Since the successful candidate will work closely with the private villa chef he/she is expected to assist the chef with other duties and possess the following experience, qualities and qualifications: • Experience in Five Star F&B is essential • Expansive wine knowledge in order to assist private chef with wine paring for dining • Serving and bartending experience is also essential since the sommelier will be expected to serve dinner and drinks • Butler experience and or training would be an advantage • Assist private chef in maintaining the cleanliness and proper sanitation of the kitchen • He/she must be willing to work flexible and long hours (weekends and especially holidays) when the family and friends are in residence • He/she must be able to work within a team and be willing to perform other duties to assist other staff as required • He/she must be extremely will presented and have a good command of english. Since the family are native Spanish speakers knowledge of Spanish would be an advantage but not essential • A clean drivers license is also required as the Sommelier would be expected to assist the private chef with shopping Salary is dependent on experience

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority invites Companies or Brokers to submit proposal for the provision of the under mentioned Insurance coverage:• General Property Insurance • Loss of Profit Insurance • Employers Liability Insurance • Third Party Liability Insurance • Directors and Officers Insurance and Company Reimbursements • Motor Vehicle Insurance • Contents Insurance Tender document can be from the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority Office, at the Old Provo Rental Car Building, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island upon the payment of a non refundable fee of one hundred United States Dollars (US$100.00).

Tenders will close at 1:30pm on Monday March 10, 2014.

Herbert Ingham Chairman Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority P. O. Box 1058, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: 649-946-4420. Fax: 649-941-5996 Email: info@tciairports.com 9397

Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing to Villa Manager, P.O. Box 143 or email: tcielite@gmail.com

9392

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ALVERIA DUNCOMBE

ALCHEMY LIMITED Is seeking an

Is looking for a

EXPERIENCED PRIVATE CONTRACT CHEF Requirements: • 12 years fine dining restaurant and in house catering experience • Culinary Arts Degree • Face to face client interaction • Must be versed in multi-cultural fine dining cuisine • Thorough knowledge of food safety health requirements a must • Through knowledge of food costing and purchasing • Menu development skills • Thorough understanding of food allergies and dietary restrictions • All applicants must be hardworking self motivated employees able to work standing up for 10 hours at a time • Must also be willing to work varied shifts, nights, weekends and holidays are required by bookings • Starting salary $2,000.00 per month plus gratuity

Labourer To work 6 days

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

All interested applicants should email resume or CV to plateoftranquility@gmail. com Only qualified applicants will be considered for this position 9386

contact: 246-4769

9377

BAY BISTRO

BAY BISTRO Is looking for a

Blue Horizons Real Estate

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

cleaner/ housekeeper dishwasher

labourer to work 6 days

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

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 432-4233

contact: 432-4233

9402

CULINARIA LTD.

Domestic Worker Chef Baker Pool & Beach Attendant Kitchen Helper Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary starting at $5.50 per hour.

9389

contact: 231-4242

MERMAID WANTED

9358

ISLAND HOMES DEVELOPMENT is looking for a

Responsible for inspecting propane tanks and lines

9399

BAREFOOT CAFE Providenciales Telephone: 441-1687

Barmaid, Bartender, Dish Washer Salary starts at $5.00 per hour.

9387

EMPLOYEES WANTED For the following positions:

Labourer Waitress Painter Security Officer Maintenance Steward Baker Gardener Mason Carpenter

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

contact: 441-7130

C.H Ltd

is looking for 3 cooks with the below qualifications and skills

Tandoor cook: 1 position

•

construction superintendent

To work 6 days per week salary $10.00 per hour. contact: 432-8070

9400

L & M CRAFT MARKET

• • •

contact: 342-5960

$5.5/hour + benefits Have at least 7 years experience in running a charcoal driven tandoor Knowledge in making ingredients for Naan/Romali/roti's Knowledge of marinating for Kebabs from all over India (North and South) and cooking in tandoor.

Working knowledge of starting and closing the charcoal tandoor.

Curry Chef: 1 position

$7.5/hours + benefits • Have at least 10 years of hands on experience in running curry section of an Indian restaurant.

• Knowledge of producing curries from all over India - with concentration on North Indian and Mughlai style cuisine • Knowledge in producing the 6 base sauces used for Indian cuisine.

• Knowledge in marinating for Kebabs and some work knowledge of Tandoor operations.

• Plating and presentation of Indian cuisine and garnishes used

is looking for a

Chinese cook: 1 position

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

9385

Acting on behalf of our client National Gas is seeking a

contact: 2415922 or 341-6885

9380

Belongers only need apply

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Contact: Louise Peterson at 231-1988.

Domestic Worker

Please contact: Caicos Tours at 231-0007 for further information

per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 649-243-6877

Mechanic

Caicos Tours is looking for a freediving tour guide to entertain and care for guest, both above and below water Candidates will need a good understanding of Reef Ecology, Certifications in freediving, SCUBA, First Aid, a current STCW 95, and a good knowledge of makeup. An extremely professional working attitude and the ability to communicate easily with guests of all ages is essential.

The working week is Monday-Saturday including bank holidays, hours are from 8:30am until the boat is cleaned after the last tour of the day. Additional hours may be required on occasion

farmer To work 6 days

Must be reliable, 3 years hotel and resort cleaning experience, attention to detail, flexible hours including Sat/Sun and evenings.

Salary $6.50 per hour. Position open until March 15th, 2014.

9403

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Is looking for a

9394

AGNES SWANN NORTH CAICOS

9395

34 CLASSIFIEDS

$7.50/hr Extensive knowledge of Cantonese, schewan and hunan cuisine Should be a team player Should be an expert in Dim-sum Should be able to work on wok and have knowledge of cleaning and working of the same • Experience of at least 8 years in Chinese cuisine in a reputable restaurant • Menu planning and design with cost estimates and product knowledge • Expert in preparation of Peking duck and other southern Chinese cuisine • • • •

Send resume to info@garammasala.com 9405

March 1 - 7, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EPHRAIM LTD.

LANDSCAPING SUPERVISOR

CABINET MAKER

• Applicants must possess a minimum of 5 years experience, with knowledge on plants/ chemicals and fertilizer sprays, be able to work with minimum supervision.

• Applicant must be knowledgeable in propagation and greenhouse climate • Must be proficient in computer, can do minimal computer troubleshooting and knowledgeable in QuickBooks for Point of Sale • Transaction and Inventory Software • Applicants must be willing to work outdoors with irregular hours Starting salary is $8.00 per hour may include weekends and holidays

• Must have knowledge of making furniture • Must have knowledge of structural steel construction and inspection • Must know how to read drawings and blueprints • Must know equipment operation for future projects

Please drop off all applications to Enviromental Arts located at #65 Beechwood Street, Grace Bay or email: environmentalarts@tciway.tc c/o Natalie Zaidan

FLAMINGO CAFÉ

9390

Successful applicants will be notified by phone for an interview

Salary $7.00 per hour

is looking for a

cook $5.50 per hour WAVE is looking for a

Bartender $5.50 per hour.

Must be willing to work 6 days per week

Domestic Girl

9374

MERLINE GROCERY STORE is looking for a

domestic worker

• Must have excellent customer service skills • Must be able to work weekends/ holidays • Must have knowledge of counterpoint and POS System Salary $5.50 per hour

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

to work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

contact: 341-0818

9373

Lew 1 Shipping seeks one (1)

4 Laborers – $6.00 per hour

NEPTUNE VILLAS Is looking for the following persons:

9395

Labourer Contact: 649941-5707

9376

Rock of Jesus Ministry Is seeking employment for:

Video technician & 1 Graphic Designer Gardener/ Maintenance Person to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 946-5306

9379

Must be able to produce graphic designs, special effects, editor animations, commercials etc.

Applicants must have a minimum of five years experience. Must be able to understand, speak & write English. Must have a valid driver’s license.

Must be a Christian. Salary based on experience.

Please fax or email resume to Fax: 946-4283 Email: bac@tciway.tc or info@roj.tc Situable applicants Will be contacted for an interview.

9375

9396

contact: 341-5919

Assistant Pastry Chef

– $10.00 per hour

is seeking to hire a

SALES CLERK

is looking for an

Painter salary

9378

GRAND TURK LIQUORS

GARDENER NEEDED Must know how to do edging and has good character. contact: 241-1815

contact: 231-6153

Contact: 232-7317

contact: 241-2573

Contact: Joey Missick at 946-1187

to work 6 days per week 9am-7pm salary $5.00 per hour interested persons can.

FEMIN’S DELICACIES

is looking to fill the following positions:

For cleaning and cutting flowers must know how to use floral solutions to keep flowers alive

Contact: 242-7545

9388

Stylist

LEW & JAN CONSTRUCTION

FLOWER GIRL

Is looking for a

contact: 431-1265

EVENIA BEAUTY SALON KEW TOWN Is looking for a

STABLE HAND WANTED Full-Time salary $7.50 per hour • Applicant must have a minimum of 10 years experience in all aspects of stable maintenance this includes: • Riding and horse handling (grooming, tacking up, cleaning tack, cleaning stalls, and lunging) • Equine nutrition • Teaching adults and children (mainly tourist) basic riding skills • Trimming hooves and basic equine veterinary care including IV/IM shots • Experience in breaking and training young horses • Must be able to guide and supervise inexperienced riders on trail rides • Must have a valid driver’s license • Must have own transportation and telephone • Must weigh less than 160 pounds • Must speak English fluently, second language an asset • Applicant must have own knowledge in basic accounting, QuickBooks, Excel • Further computer experience is an asset will work weekends and holidays

Contact: 946-5252

9383

R & S VARIETY STORE

Sales Person Assistant Store Manager DUST BUSTER & MAID SERVICE LTD.

Domestic Helper (4) Babysitter (4) Houseman (4) Contact: 246-6157 or 345-9795

9506

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

Sun & Fun Sea Sports Ltd

Acting on behalf of our clients: Complete Construction, Villa Del Mar, After 5, Faces & Fingers, Coyaba Restaurant, Southwind Millwork, Insight Ltd.

Is seeking a

Responsibilities: ;; Work with Executive Chef - estimate food consumption, place orders with suppliers, and schedule delivery of fresh food and beverages. ;; Resolve customer complaints about food quality or service. ;; Direct cleaning of kitchen and dining areas to maintain sanitation standards, and keep appropriate records. ;; Monitor actions of staff and customers. ;; Maintain budget and employee records, prepare payroll, and pay bills, monitor bookkeeping records, and interpret P&L statements ;; Proficiently operate computer software to monitor inventory, track staff schedules and pay, and perform other record keeping. ;; Check quality of deliveries of fresh food and baked goods. ;; Maintain stock of supplies such as tableware, cooking utensils, and cleaning items. ;; Arrange for weekly, monthly maintenance and repair of equipment and other services. ;; Ensure total receipts and balance against sales, deposit receipts, and lock facility at end of day. ;; Recruit, hire, and oversee training of staff. ;; Schedule work hours for servers and bar staff.

Other Duties: ;; Maintain relationships with customers and staff. ;; Update and use job-related knowledge. ;; Schedule staff work hours and activities. ;; Evaluate health and safety practices against standards. ;; Organize, plan, and prioritize. ;; Make decisions and solve problems concerning menus and staff. ;; Judge the quality of food, preparation, and job applicants. ;; Process and analyze information when scheduling and budgeting. ;; Record information about inventory and health practices. ;; Handle food, utensils, and bookkeeping materials. ;; Implement creative promotional ideas working with vendors and staff. ;; Maintain employees and inventory records. ;; Monitor and oversee purchases, menus, staff, and payroll. ;; Guide, direct, and train staff. ;; Coordinate the work and activities of staff. ;; Perform administrative activities such as scheduling, budgeting, and payroll. ;; Communicate with customers, sales reps, and suppliers.

Belongers given preference.

Please apply in person with CV, cover letter and references at Somewhere Café and Lounge or submit online at manager@somewherecafeandlounge.com

to work 6 days per week at a salary of $5.00 per hour.

for a busy restaurant in Providenciales. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact: 946-5724

9384

Contact 941-8408 for an interview

9401

The assistant general manager (AGM) must possess a broad range of skills and be multifaceted. The AGM must have at least 5 years previous experience in restaurant management and possess at least an Associates Degree in Food and Beverage Management or industry equivalent. The ideal candidate will execute a variety of daily duties including but not limited to placing orders, receiving deliveries, accounting, maintaining inventory, and executing the Café’s wine program. Candidate must be forward thinking and use preventative measures to maintain the infrastructure of the Café. The AGM will handle daily cash sales and receipts. They will work to promote specials created by the kitchen and assist the bar staff in marketing specialty cocktails and drinks. They will proficiently cost out recipes for food and beverage menus using formulas to maintain profitable margins. The AGM will have expert knowledge/ sommelier training in oenology as it pertains to the Café, ie., service, pairings and training of staff. He/she will be attentive to resolve customer complaints about food or service.

They will monitor and govern customer behavior to ensure conduct is becoming of the Café’s high standard. The AGM will support the General Manager by participating in the disciplining of staff, hiring, and creating schedules to properly staff the establishment.

They will oversee the training of staff to ensure all service standards are met, and that they remain adhered to by staff. The candidate will possess certification in Quick Books accounting software, Microsoft Office programs and have extensive knowledge of Micros POS systems and will be required to utilize these skills on a daily basis. AGM will work with General Manager to reconcile payroll for distribution. Candidate will possess problem-solving abilities and be quick to respond in a fast paced-high pressure environment. Candidate must be able to climb stairs and be prepared to lift heavy boxes that are inherent in the local and type of business.

LABOURER

Salary $6-$9 per hour

contact: 345-7512

9404

J & C PAWN SHOP is looking for a

Jewelry Repairman to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour contact: 341-1021

9510

Y.A.3.B CONSULTING AGENCY acting on behalf of our clients:

The WINDSONG RESORT is currently looking to fill the following positions: • Housekeeper • Front Desk Agent • Gardener • Housekeeping Supervisor • Night Auditor • Concierge • Pool and Beach Attendant

Drop Resumes at the Front Desk

9385

Assistant General Manager Needed

Domestic Worker Needed

Labourer Domestic Worker Sommelier Catering Supervisor Masseuse Pool Attendant Waiter Baker Kitchen Helpers

Impression Beauty Salon Barber $6.00 per hour Anne Garcia Beauty Salon Cosmetologist $6.00 per hour Barber $6.00 per hour B’s Beauty Box 2 Hairdressers $6.00 per hour G-Spot Bar Waitresses $6.00 per hour Barber $6.00 per hour Nessy Restaurant

Bartender $6.00 per hour Waitress $6.00 per hour Milagios Gardiner Domestic Worker $5.50 per hour Zodiac Bar Bartender $6.00 per hour Waitress $6.00 per hour B.M Construction Handyman $6.00 per hour Gardener $6.00 per hour Universal Product Recycle $6.00 per hour

Contact: 341-4540

TURKS & CAICOS SANITATION

Two Diesel Mechanics

Requirements: • Proof of Certification and 5 years experienced and over • Specialized in Catepillar Engine, Truck Engine (International, GMC, Mack, Volvo, Freight Liner • Specialized in transmission and gear box Sales Person • Good customer service skills a must • Excellent communication and writing • Applicant must be fully computer literate in Microsoft Excel and Word and have a working knowledge of QuickBooks

Please send resume and certificates via email to: tcsanitation@tciway.tc Those applicants with required qualification will be contacted for an interview

9370

36 CLASSIFIEDS

March 1 - 7, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS CL 185 /2013

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT RE: MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR KENNETH MUIRHEAD

HER LADYSHIP THE HONOURABLE JUSTICE RAMSAY- HALE 28TH OF JANUARY 2014

Friends and well-wishers of the late Kenneth (Ken) Muirhead are hereby informed that a Memorial Service to honour his life will be held at St. Monica's Anglican Church Providenciales on Thursday, March 6, 2014 at 6.30 o'clock p.m.

The service will be conducted by the Revd. Fr. Bernard Been.

IN THE MATTER OF THE REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE (CAP. 72) (“THE ORDINANCE), S77 AND IN THE MATTER OF A CHARGE (“THE CHARGE”) OVER TITLE 60904/ 128 LEEWARD GOING THROUGH, PROVIDENCIALES, (“THE PARCEL”) BETWEEN EQUITY LTD APPLICANT AND ANTONIA ZENDBIA KEMP RESPONDENT ORDER GRANTING LEAVE TO SERVE ORIGINATING SUMMONS (AND AFFIDAVIT IN SUPPORT) AND ANCILLARY DOCUMENTS, BY WAY OF SUBSTITUTED SERVICE Dated the 28th of January 2014 BEFORE Her Ladyship The Honourable Justice Ramsay- Hale at the Court House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday the 28th of January 2014.

Appearing Neale Coleman, on behalf of the Applicant UPON READING the Application of the Applicant dated the 23rd of January 2014, made ex parte, for an Order to serve the Respondent by way of substituted service.

AND the Affidavit of Peter Michael Karam sworn on the 22nd of January 2014, AND UPON HEARING Counsel, THE COURT ORDERS that: 1. The Applicant be granted leave to serve the originating summons (and affidavit in support) and ancillary documents on the Respondent by substituted service.

2. The substituted service being effected by publishing a notice in the manner set out in the notice attached to this order in the Sun and Turks and Caicos Weekly News publications in the Turks and Caicos Islands for two consecutive weeks as well as publishing the same notice in the major publication(s) in Freeport, Bahamas again for two consecutive weeks.

3. A copy of this Order shall be published along with the notices in (1) above.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos IN THE SUPREME COURT OF THECL 185 /2013 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS IN THE MATTER OF THE REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE (CAP. 72) (“THE ORDINANCE), S77 AND IN THE MATTER OF A CHARGE (“THE CHARGE”) OVER TITLE 60904/ 128 LEEWARD GOING THROUGH, PROVIDENCIALES, (“THE PARCEL”)

4. The date of service being 28 days from the date of the last notice published in the manner ordered within paragraph (2) of this order.

BETWEEN

5. The Applicant’s costs of and associated with this application be paid by the Respondent in any event.

EQUITY LTD APPLICANT

Dated the of, 2014

AND

BY ORDER OF THE COURT

ANTONIA ZENDBIA KEMP RESPONDENT

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS CL 185 /2013

NOTICE

IN THE MATTER OF THE REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE (CAP. 72) (“THE ORDINANCE), S77 AND IN THE MATTER OF A CHARGE (“THE CHARGE”) OVER TITLES 60904/128 LEEWARD GOING THROUGH, PROVIDENCIALES, (“THE PARCEL”)

TAKE NOTICE that EQUITY LTD., a company incorporated in the Turks and Caicos Islands has applied to the Supreme Court on the 20th day of November 2013 for an order to sell the charged property at parcel 60904/ 128 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales, Turks And Caicos Islands by private treaty.

BETWEEN EQUITY LTD APPLICANT

You ANTONIA ZENDBIA KEMP, are hereby notified of the application by an Order for Substituted Service made by the Supreme Court on the 28th day of January 2014. A copy of the Order is exhibited below.

AND ANTONIA ZENDBIA KEMP RESPONDENT

PLEASE CONTACT THE KARAM & MISSICK ATTORNEYS IMMEDIATELY.

ORDER GRANTING LEAVE TO SERVE ORIGINATING SUMMONS (AND AFFIDAVIT IN SUPPORT) AND ANCILLARY DOCUMENTS, BY WAY OF SUBSTITUTED SERVICE KARAM & MISSICK Attorneys-at-Law Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

Attorneys for the Respondent

9375

KARAM & MISSICK P.0.Box 926, Suites A201-3, Regent Village East Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Tel.: (649) 941-5082-4 Fax.: (649) 941-5094 Email: info@karammissick.com 9375

38 CLASSIFIEDS

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CAPTAIN HOOK’S EUROPEAN HAIRSTYLIST

1 HAIRDRESSER FOR MEN AND WOMEN

SALES!!!

Due to change of season we are selling lots of items at discount prices. Towels, curtains, bathroom sets, bathroom coordinates, napkins, cups and glasses, canisters, mixing bowls, serving trays and much more for your house.

DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PUBLIC NOTICE DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys are pleased to announce the re-opening of our Leeward Highway Office for ongoing legal services to the public. We are located in our own building across the street from the Supreme Court complex, next door to the offices of TC Weekly News and between that and the St. Monica's Anglican Church.

We specialize in: • Civil Litigation (Particular competencies: Judicial Review and other claims against TCI Government/Departments, Mareva and other Injunctions, Land, Trust & Bank disputes) • Property Matters, Planning Department & Development Issues • Business Law • Immigration • Labour Disputes Telephone: (649) 941-4444 Telefax: (649) 941-4235 Cellphone: (649) 245-1314 email: berynd@yahoo.com DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PO Box 52, Cheshire House East 1315A Leeward Highway, Providenciales

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

• Must have a Color Diploma from L’Oreal or Wella • Must have 5 years experience • Must be Willing to work weekends Salary based on commission A second language would be a plus

Contact: 946-5093 BLUE HILLS CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

CAPTAIN MARVIN WATERSPORTS Is looking for a

boat captain

labourer

Must have 5-7 years experience Must have excellent communication skills Must be willing to work flexible hours Salary $12.00 per hour

Contact: 346-0002

Contact: Marvin or Tracey Pratt at 231-7245

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

9506

9508

9367

CASABLANCA CASINO Is looking for a

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

contact: 244-4665 Monday-Friday 9am-4pm

9507

PRICED FOR QUICK SALE

Beautiful hillside, water front lot in Paw Paw Joe, North Caicos South

$50,000

(or nearest offer) Also additional seven acres plus in Kerr Mount (inland) contact Veronica at 1-242-327-8011 or 1-649-232-3508, (242) 676-3592

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 39

FULL-TIME VILLA HOUSEKEEPER Laborer/ Dish Washer Skill Requirements:

required for a villa in Providenciales

Qualification and experience

This position requires a high level of relevant experience either within a five star hotel or private villa. A self motivated highly service orientated and well presented individual who uses own initiative.

The candidate must have a good command of English and excellent communication skills and be prepared to work long hours, weekends and holidays Computer literacy essential as is a clean TCI driving license Summary of duties and responsibilities Impeccable cleanliness of the villa, so attention to detail is essential Housekeeping responsibilities with an awareness of cost control and energy saving, ensuring that all house amenities and services are functional and that the house is well maintained by reporting to the property manager, monthly reports on petty cash and local accounts, assisting private chef with shopping and meal preparation when necessary Understanding of the needs and requirements of demanding guests is of paramount importance Record utility usage on spreadsheets and notice any discrepancies

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Must be consistently punctual for work.

Maintain a clean work station throughout shift.

Must maintain a clean, well kept appearance upon arrival and through out shifts.

Must be able to multi task in a fast pace, high pressure environment.

Be able to stand on ones feet for 8 hours and be comfortable lifting 50 pounds or more without physical restrictions.

Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule Wash all dishes by hand for the dining room and kitchen on an as needed basis.

Clean bathrooms and maintain stock throughout shift Clean all floors in front and back of house at opening and closing Carry out and set up umbrellas for tables before opening Open doors, assist wait-staff with opening procedures Assist management when orders are received by vendors Must be able to communicate in English Must be polite and cordial to co-workers and guests at all times

Duties: • Work with staff members to assure that the restaurant is clean and well maintained throughout the duration of their shift.

• Participate in daily cleaning duties as per scheduled by the Chef or other Management personnel to maintain a clean, safe environment for all employees to work in.

Belongers only need apply

Apply in person with CV, references, police record and passport copy to be considered.

9365

Remuneration

Salary $1,300-$1,500.00 per month

Applications must also apply in writing with resume to:

tcielite@gmail.com Villa Manager P.O. Box 143 Providenciales

9393

JOB OPPORTUNITY Director of Finance

JOB OPPORTUNITIES RESTAURANT MANAGER • At least 4 years experience operating a luxury restaurant and expertise in fine wines • Experience in quality and efficiency initiatives • International and multi-outlet experience • Manage assigned Ocean Front Restaurant • Provide leadership, supervision and control in order to provide a high degree of guests satisfaction • Set and maintain high service supervisory standards • Assist with the hiring and training of new employees • Evaluate employees and conduct shift line ups and restaurant cost controls Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

KITCHEN STEWARD • Wash dishes, utensils and cookware following established procedures • Place clean dishes, utensils and cooking equipment in storage areas • Maintain kitchen work areas, equipment and utensils in clean and orderly condition • Assist in performing cleaning tasks as needed in the kitchen • Assist the cook(s) with food preparation as requested Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Qualified persons can contact: Veronica CLARE Human Resources Manager , Grace Bay P: 1.649.946.5050 | veronica.clare@gracebayclub.com

Responsible for overall management of all finance, accounting, purchasing and MIS functions, including but not limited to safeguarding all assets, strategic planning/budgeting, and compliance with internal controls and procedures.

Also, a financial advisor to the management team of the hotel and a coordinator with the various department heads with respect to the relationship of accounting policies and practices to operational procedures.

• Minimum 7 years of hospitality accounting experience, with a minimum of 3 years in international assignments • Minimum 5 years experience as Assistant Director of Finance in a luxury hotel/ resort/club of similar size or larger or minimum of 2 years as Director of Finance in a luxury hotel/resort/club of similar size or larger.

• Condo hotel or residential accounting experience is a plus • Experience in managing resort’s Purchasing and IT functions • An undergraduate degree in Business Administration or Accounting or equivalent in experience • A proven track record in overseeing the finance function environment • Strong people management skills and experience is a plus • Adaptability: Able to adjust to change, open to new ideas, willing to take on additional responsibilities and able to perform in a deadline driven environment • Effective communicator with Owners, Guests and Employees and who is not uncomfortable in dealing with challenging issues • Excellent knowledge of various hotel software to include property management software, POS, and accounting software, specifically Opera, Micros, ACCPAC, SAP Must have excellent: • Communication Skills • Leadership Skills • Advanced mathematical and accounting concepts • Computer literacy • Ability to analyse and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals and governmental regulations • Ability to train staff This advertisement is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions of this position.

Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Qualified persons can contact: Ric Graham Grace Bay Resorts, Turks and Caicos Islands P: 1.649.946.5050 |ric.graham@gracebayresorts.com

9361

40

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational

NFL contemplates on-pitch penalties for derogatory slurs IN EUROPEAN soccer, the punishment for racially abusing an opponent is a

10-match ban.

In American football, the same offense could result

in the offending team being penalized 15 yards.

That’s the proposal on

JOB ADVERTISEMENT Cook/Chef

SUMMARY: Act as a right hand to Station Chef and Sous Chef. Responsible for preparing and producing food items, a la carte, buffets, banquets, etc. to specified requirement set by the Hotel. Be Flexible; open-minded and confident to take over any section of the kitchen operation at any time. To ensure a high level of food quality, value, consistency, and satisfaction to the guests.

Chef de Partie

SUMMARY: The Chef de Partie is a direct link between the Executive Chef, Executive Sous Chef, sous chef and his/her assigned production areas and outlets. His primary responsibilities are to ensure all communication, standards, policies, and expectations are communicated to his/her team and then executed flawlessly. The Chef de Partie enables his/her team by ensuring equipment and sanitation standards are always met, supplies and inventories are readily available, expectations are communicated, recipes are current, and training is on-going. He/She is expected to be a “hands-on” supervisor who leads his/her team by example. The Chef de Partie is assigned to be directly responsible for one or more outlets or production areas in the following categories: production, alternative restaurants, buffets, or main galley. The Chef de Partie should expect to be rotated into different areas with or without advance notice in regards business demands and career development.

the table when the NFL’s Competitions Committee meets next week, as the body considers penalizing players for using abusive language during games.

High on the list of derogatory slurs the NFL is

trying to outlaw is use of the ‘N-word’, while penalties for homophobic comments are also being discussed. A second incident could result in ejection.

“It is a potential rule modification being discussed by

our Competition Committee,” the NFL statement read.

“The committee has not decided on a formal proposal to our clubs, who have to approve rule changes by a 3/4 vote (24 of 32 teams).

“Rule change proposals are presented to our teams at our annual league meeting in late March.

HOUSEKEEPER

NANNY/ HOUSEKEEPER

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. Email: destinationtci@gmail. com 9372

Contact: 232-4188

THE TURTLE COVE HOTEL & RESIDENCE Is looking for a

Gardener NEEDED

to keep the hotel grounds clean must be able to work weekends and holidays salary $5.00 per hour Only Belonger need apply contact: Cecelia Rigby at 946-4203 9514

Able to perform all Nanny chores as well as cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, and cleaning laundry.

Salary $5.50 per hour, Monday - Saturday

9531

Executive Sous Chef

SUMMARY: Accountable for overall success of the daily kitchen operations. Exhibits culinary talents by personally performing tasks while leading the staff and managing all food related functions. Works to continually improve guest and employee satisfaction while maintaining the operating budget. Supervises all kitchen areas to ensure a consistent, high quality product is produced. Responsible for guiding and developing staff including direct reports. Must ensure sanitation and food standards are achieved.

Sous Chef

SUMMARY: A Sous Chef in the kitchen is the second in command, below the Executive Chef and Executive sous Chef. The job of Sous Chef involves significant responsibility, as the Sous Chef must be able to lead other kitchen workers, remain organized and professional, and report vital information to the Executive Chef and Executive sous Chef. If there are times when the Executive Sous Chef is unable to work, the Sous Chef assumes all responsibilities normally assigned to the Executive sous Chef.

Stewarding Supervisor

SUMMARY: Directs and coordinates all activities and provides assistance to the staff of the stewarding department, to ensure all established service standards and procedures of Hotel are implemented consistently, leading to guest satisfaction, staff satisfaction and profit for the Hotel.

Restaurant Supervisor Oversees and supervises daily operations of the restaurant. Resolve customer complaints regarding food service.

Train workers in food preparation, and in service, sanitation, and safety procedures. Observe and evaluate workers and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service. Assign duties, responsibilities, and work stations to employees in accordance with work requirements.

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com

Public Notice Tender Procedure Design and Build of new homes on Grand Turk and South Caicos. EU/Turks and Caicos Islands Hurricane Ike Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Project Contract No: EUTCI_RRP_6_CON6001 Under the contract between The Disaster Recovery Board (DRB) of the Turks and Caicos Islands and The European Commission: 10th EDF Persons wishing to tender for this Contract are invited to contact the project officer Crysenne Dickenson at ccdickenson@gov.tc to obtain an electronic copy of the Prequalification Questionnaire for this tender.

Tenders will be called for in March 2014, for a Contract for the design and construction of new low cost homes on Grand Turk and South Caicos.

Only those who have submitted a Prequalification Questionnaire which meets the requirements as set out therein, will be invited to submit a tender for the Design and Build Contract.

Closing date for the submission of completed Prequalification Questionnaires is Friday 21st March, 2014.

Qualifying Respondents will be invited on Tuesday, 25th March, 2014 to submit a tender at an appropriate time thereafter.

9511

March 1 - 7, 2014

Sports Interational

CBMS-CARIBBEAN BUILDING MATERIALS & SERVICES LTD

Openly gay player Jason Collins plays in the NBA JASON Collins became the first openly gay man to play in the NBA on Sunday night, wearing a Brooklyn Nets uniform in a game against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Collins, who lives in Los Angeles, signed a 10-day contract

with the Nets on Sunday. He entered the game with 10:28 left in the second quarter, receiving a round of applause from the L.A. crowd at the Staples Center.

Brooklyn won the game 108-102, and Collins played 11 minutes, not scoring any points

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

but pulling down two rebounds and making one steal.

When Collins took the court, he became the first openly gay athlete in any of the major American team sports -- baseball, football, basketball and hockey.

Amazing Value!

Lot for Sale

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o.

Call 231-3788

is looking to employ the following persons,

Heavy duty mechanic

;;Applicant must have at least six years experience with conceret equipment, hydraulics and heavy equipment. ;;Applicant must be able to provide their own tools ;;Applicant must be able to work with no supervision, to work late days and evenings and weekends as the job requires. ;;All applicants must hold a valid driver’s license.

SERVICE ADVISOR

APPLICANT MUST HAVE FULL KNOWLEDGE OF CONCERET and concrete mixing ;;Must be able to bill a client listing, ;;Must be able to know all parts relating to heavy machinery ;;Must have several years of experience ;;Applicant must be able to work with no supervision, to work late days and evenings and weekends as the job requires. ;;All applicants must hold a valid driver’s license.

Concrete tester

CBMS are seeking applicants for the above role as a Concrete tester, you will be required to test concrete in the field on a variety of construction building and Main roads sites, and have a basic computer knowledge, all applicant's must have full availability and able to work weekends and holidays on occasions, the role is demanding yet rewarding.

Any experience Concrete testing will be an advantage but is not essential but must have some experience with Concrete Testing in the field, a current drivers license

Pls submit all application to our office located on south dock road between the hours of 9-5pm

PRICE SLASHED

FOR QUICK SALE PRICE SLASHED $180,000 CASH! $175,000

House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

42

March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational

Barcelona answer Neymar deal charges by paying $18.5m in taxes FOOTBALL club Barcelona paid 13.5 million euros ($18.5 million) in additional taxes on Monday, while denying any fiscal “irregularities” in its purchase of Brazilian superstar Neymar, which is now under investigation by a court.

FC Barcelona announced the surprise payment on its website, which it called “voluntary,” just four days after a judge at Spain’s National Court in Madrid filed preliminary charges against the fan-owned club for alleged tax fraud in the Neymar deal.

“The board (of Barcelona) denies the existence of any tax-related crime in relation to the fiscal obligations arising from the signing of the player (Neymar),” the club’s website said.

Barcelona made its “voluntary” tax donation while denying any fiscal crime on Monday.

“Throughout the process, the club was receiving expert advice and at every moment the club’s auditor was informed and had access to all the documentation concerning the negotiations.”

Last Thursday, Judge

Pablo Ruz expanded his investigation against the club, as requested a day earlier by a prosecutor, who alleged the club avoided paying 9 million euros (more than $12 million) in taxes on Neymar’s signing and transfer, corresponding to

HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. is looking for the following positions to employ:

ASPHALT FOREMAN/ SUPERINTENDENT With knowledge of managing commercial grading and paving crews. Project include major retail parking lots, street and road construction, demolition and grading, asphalt paving and pavement markings

Applicant must be able to: • • • •

contracts signed in 2011 and 2013.

The judge is already investigating whether a former Barcelona president committed financial irregularities in the signing of Neymar.

The club said on its website Monday: “Given the existence of a possible divergent interpretation of the exact amount of tax responsibility arising from the signing, and to defend the club’s reputation and good name, FC Barcelona has this morning made a complementary tax declaration of a total of 13,550,830.56 euros.”

The reason, the club added, was “to cover any potential interpretation made concerning the contracts signed in the transfer process for Neymar, although we remain convinced that the original tax payment was in line with our fiscal obligations.”

Judge Ruz said in his writ last Thursday that the investigation would include a look at an alleged “contract simulation presumably carried out by the parties which signed the contracts.”

The expanded investigation would hold FC Barcelona responsible as an entity or business enterprise if found guilty of tax fraud, said a National Court spokesman, who by custom is not identified.

Former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell tested positive for banned stimulant oxilofrine in June 2013 and faces up to a two year ban.

Powell drug verdict due in April FORMER 100m world record holder Asafa Powell will not find out until 10 April what ban, if any, he is to serve for a failed drugs test last year.

The Jamaican, 31, tested positive for banned stimulant oxilofrine in June 2013 and faces up to a two year ban.

In final submissions in Kingston on Wednesday, his legal team appealed for leniency for what is a first offence.

Sherone Simpson, who failed a test at the same event, will receive her verdict on 8 April.

Both Powell and Simpson, who were provisionally suspended in July, argued for the minimum suspension, on the grounds of minimal fault.

However, Jamaica’s Anti-Doping Commission lawyer argued that they were negligent and had blindly trusted the physical trainer whom both blame for their

positive tests.

The trainer - Chris Xuereb denies supplying a supplement known as Epiphany D1, which contains the banned substance.

During an earlier hearing in January - adjourned until this month after it overran - the court heard that Xuereb was also administering Powell’s anti-inflammatory injections and Vitamin B12, despite not being certified as a doctor, massage therapist, chiropractor or physiotherapist.

Along with Simpson - a silver medallist in the 4 x 100m relay at the London 2012 Olympics - Powell was among five Jamaicans to test positive at the Jamaican National Championships in June of last year.

At the time, he said checks done by his team “told us the supplements were fit for consumption by professional athletes”.

Mayweather picks Maidana as opponent

Read construction drawing Have a minimum 5 years grading experience Have a minimum 5 years paving experience Have a minimum 5 years crew management experience

HEAVY EQUIPMENT DIESEL MECHANIC With the knowledge of the standard practices, materials, tools and equipment used in the repair and maintenance of heavy equipment and engines

Applicant must have:

• Knowledge of safety issue in the use of tools, equipment and supplies used in repair of motorized vehicles and heavy equipment • Skilled in the use of a variety of hand tools • Skilled in the use of gas and electric welding equipment • Skilled in the use of mechanized tools, jacks and hoists • Skilled in the use of a variety of diagnostic testing and tuning equipment • Ability to diagnose mechanical, electrical and hydraulic malfunctions • Ability to read manuals and schematics • Ability to rebuild engines and major driveline components • Ability to enter repair information in fleet maintenance management software

Please submit applications to the main office at CS-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands 9511

FLOYD Mayweather Jr. gave himself a 37th birthday present Monday, confirming he’ll collect another multimilliondollar purse by selecting Marcos Maidana as his May 3 opponent.

He had previously narrowed down his opponents to Maidana and Brit Amir Khan.

Mayweather (45-0, 26 knockouts) will defend his World Boxing Council welterweight title on Showtime pay-per-view at a site to be determined, either MGM Grand or Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.

“I am extremely happy to be facing Floyd Mayweather because it will give me the opportunity to show the world that I am the best welterweight in the division,” said Maidana, who will represent throngs of Latino boxing fans on Cinco

Marcos Maidana says the fight will give him an opportunity to prove that he is the best welterweight in the division.

de Mayo when he faces the pound-for-pound king. “I just handed a great defensive fighter his first loss and I plan to do the same to Mayweather.

I don’t care whether he’s the best and undefeated. I will bring some real Latino power to him on May 3rd.”

Maidana boasts an 82 percent knockout rate.

“Marcos Maidana’s last performance immediately brought him to my attention,” said Mayweather. “He is an extremely skilled fighter who brings knockout danger to the ring. I think this is a great fight for me and he deserves the opportunity to see if he can do what 45 others have tried to do before him -- beat me.”

March 1 - 7, 2014

43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports National Josh for Sports Diverse topics/facts of national interest:

Youth: future, wealth, health and parents of a nation LAST week I only scratched the surface regarding the above captioned heading.

These columns are too limited in space allocation for me to do the subject justice.

However, I shall make a comprehensive concerted effort to accommodate you within the limited space available.

By Joshua Gardiner

HISTORICAL LEGENDARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS I’ve always said that we (TC Islanders) are the most inherently latent talented country in the world based on our accomplishments on the ratio of our population per capita compared to other countries.

Our youths have shown the region and world that we possess a multiplicity of natural raw talent as it relates to sports.

For a small country of

just around 35,000 to make a massive impression against countries 10-100 times our population would normally be mind-boggling to the average person, but there is a logical explanation for this astounding fact. We are a mixture (melting pot) of at least 40+ countries/ nationalities from all over the world.

I would venture to say that more than ½ of our population were born here. We intermarry and or inter-breed across nationalities. Foreign

nationals here pass on their attitudes towards sports which they brought with them from their native countries and they also pass that acquired attitude onto their children who were born here in the TCI. The will to be competitive among their peers works for the common benefit of the country as a whole.

STARK EXAMPLES: FOOTBALL Football in this country was always dominated by expat players (Jamaicans, Brits, other Europeans and Caribbean nationals). It’s from these expats that we learned to play and become competitive in the sport. Naturally our enthusiasm for the game was passed on to our children.

ALONG CAME THE TCIFA After the formation of our national association in 1996 (a

FIFA member since 1998), the association members realised that the future of football lies in stimulating and teaching young children the game.

The TCIFA brought in experts and embarked on aggressive junior programmes involving school children (boys and girls) from all over the islands. They must be applauded for what they have done.

U-9 INTER-NATIONAL LEGENDS Whenever the eternal sporting history of the TCI is written, the year 2014 will shine as a year of the youth pioneers. We recently had our youngest ever national football team that represented us international bring back the best results ever by a national team in the sport.

When you look at the team’s photo you will understand what I’m talking about when I speak about the future of

sports in our country and the mixing of expats, whose children are now TC Islanders and representing the TCI. I foresee world champions. I might be dead and gone, but the ants will bring me the news.

RUGBY Like football, rugby was introduced among the schools and likewise they have won our first international title.

Again this achievement must be applauded.

BASKETBALL Slowly, but surely, basketball has almost been incorporated into all the schools of the TCI (boys and girls). Officials must remember to spread it across all genders beginning at the primary school level then these young children will take their skills into high schools thus assuring the continuation and development of our national senior basketball sides.

THE NECESSITY OF OTHER SPORTS DEVELOPMENT SAILING MECCA Like I’ve said before, we can become the sailing Mecca of the Caribbean. I’ve already explained how that can be done. It’s now up to the TCI Sailing Association to step up to the plate and make this a reality and smashing success.

CARIFTA GAMES I’ve also proposed that we introduce CARIFTA Games sailing where there will be competition in male and female (U-19 and U-17) sculling, dinghy, rowing and Olympic sailing. Yes that’s my vision and I would love to see us make history by setting this inaugural possible event for the year 2015 and every two years thereafter.

CONTINUE NEXT WEEK Love Josh

Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic:

Slow fourth quarter sends Blazer Elite crashing

Veronica Campbell Brown has not competed since she tested positive for a banned diuretic last May.

Campbell-Brown cleared to race after failed drugs test THE COURT of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) has confirmed that two-time Olympic 200m champion Veronica CampbellBrown has been cleared of a doping violation and can race again.

The 31-year-old Jamaican has not competed since she tested positive for a banned diuretic last May. But she has now been included in Jamaica’s team for next month’s World Indoor Championships in Poland.

She said the past few months have brought “much

pain and suffering”.

The sprinter released a statement on Monday saying she was free to compete and, on Tuesday, Cas confirmed they had upheld CampbellBrown’s appeal.

“The final court available to us as athletes have spoken and humbly I say they have confirmed my innocence,” said Campbell-Brown.

She was provisionally suspended by the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association after failing a test at the Jamaica Invitation meeting on 4 May.

TCI’s Blazer Elite suffered a fourth quarter drought in their elimination game against Anatol Rodgers last week in the Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic at the AF Adderley Gymnasium in the Bahamas.

The Elite (a mixed team) had knocked out the other TCI side, Clement Howell High School, on Thursday afternoon and they had looked like they would have advanced to the next round of the premier school competition in the neighbouring nation, but they were outscored 12-3 in the last period.

It was the TCI team who romped to an early lead, and by the end of the first quarter they were ahead 8-2; at the half the lead had increased to nine points 20-11.

Anatol Rodgers, who were later eliminated by Abaco Central, started the second half stronger and they were able to muscle past their opponents for the 32-28 point win.

They hit eight of their 24 shots from the free-throw line

TCI was represented by the Blazer Elite (left) and Clement Howell High School (right) at the tournament.

while the TCI team connected with two of their seven shots.

The Elite were off from beyond the arc, after going perfect 3-3 against Clement Howell they missed both of their three-point shots, while Anatol made two of their six shots.

The TCI team shot the ball better 33% from the field (13/30) than their opponents 22% (11/49), but they had 17 turn overs compared to just five from Anatol.

Delvin Williams powered his way to eight points and seven boards while Selvano

Gardiner added five points, six rebounds and two blocks for the Elite.

Brandon Williams led the opposing side with 11 points and four steals.

The tournament was eventual won by CI Gibson Rattlers.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WIV Provo Premier League:

Cheshire Hall picking up speed with big win over Teachers FC – Beaches whip Sharks DEFENDING champions of the WIV Provo Premier League (PPL) Cheshire Hall have come a far way from their opening loss to the SWA Sharks and are now hot on the heels of league leaders the AFC Academy.

After handing the Academy team their first loss two weeks ago they used the momentum to defeat the Teachers FC 5-2 last Saturday at the TCIFA Academy ground.

The win has propelled Cheshire Hall to 10 points, just two behind the league leaders. Beaches who have had a relatively slow start defeated the Sharks 3-0 last Tuesday to move to third place on seven points (tied with Rozo FC and the SWA Sharks), Teachers are sixth with four points and the Trailblazers are on one point.

ETIENNE’S DOMINANCE Rodne Etienne, who dominated the scoring with four goals, started his attack in the 17th minute, but then the Teachers scored twice to take the lead. The first was a nice shot from Basil McGregor and the second saw Kemar Pitter running on to a through ball to finish well.

Cheshire Hall came back to equalise before half time when a penalty for a foul was converted by Samuel Nacius.

The second half was more of the same, but one could sense that the Teachers were tiring as the period

Rodne Etienne has become a scoring machine for Cheshire Hall. Against Teachers FC he scored four goals.

wore on as Cheshire Hall scored their third goal with Etienne converting a Nacius through ball. Cheshire Hall kept on pressing and it was Etienne who outran the defence to score his third and Cheshire Hall’s fourth. The game was then wrapped up as the confidence flowed through Cheshire Hall, when Nacius put in a looping cross from the right with the outside of his left foot which was headed in by the outstanding Etienne.

The second scheduled game last Saturday between Trailblazers FC and Rozo FC will be replayed at a

Real Madrid hammer Schalke GARETH Bale scored twice as Real Madrid hammered Schalke away to all but reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

The Welshman netted his side’s second after a mazy dribble and added a cool finish for Real’s fifth.

Cristiano Ronaldo beat Joel Matip with a flurry of stepovers for a superb third as he and Karim Benzema also scored twice in a thrilling display.

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s spectacular injury-time volley pulled a goal back, but the tie seems over as a contest.

Madrid’s pursuit of a 10th European Cup has become a growing obsession since their last victory in the competition in 2002 and the slick way their expensively assembled attack combined will

have their supporters dreaming that their wait could soon be over.

Schalke have enjoyed a recent resurgence in the Bundesliga but that form proved meaningless against Real Madrid’s speed and skill as the Spanish giants scored for a record 32nd successive Champions League game.

Home manager Jens Keller had presciently claimed in the build-up that his side would need “a small miracle” to advance and his side began in correspondingly cautious fashion.

The initial signs were promising with Benedikt Howedes heading just wide and the visitors were held comfortably at bay in the early stages. But the Germans crumbled in the face of Real’s first purposeful attack.

After a somewhat slow start the Beaches FC are in the thick of things.

later date after being abandoned at half time.

On Tuesday night both the Sharks and Beaches were without key players: the talismanic Dadi Aristide and Yann Vergne were missing from the Sharks’ lineup while Beaches were without Barrington Somers and Ancell Williams.

The Sharks however had Syed Hassan and Chris Bryan returning after injury and it was the latter who almost gave the Sharks an instant lead when his rasping 30 yard shot rattled the bar and bounced down just in front of the goal line. The Sharks had another couple of early chances after good work from Emerson Barsotelli and Trevor Kennealy but couldn’t convert. Beaches were looking at their best of all the games they have played and the game was evenly fought until Orlando Planter collected a ball from the left wing and powered a great shot under Colin Sterling in goal.

Soon after this Sanjay Campbell was adjudged to have handled in the area and Paul Collis took the penalty which again hit the bar.

Sharks were forced into a substitution a half time when Richie Lock had to come off and on came the athletic Michael Fox to try and press down the wings. It was however Beaches who took the initiative with a cross from the left which Omar Chambers converted after the Sharks’ defence lost concentration.

The confident Beaches continued to harass the stretched Sharks with Carlington Smith, Ajah Johnson and Roger Cunningham dominating the midfield. It was a mazy run from Smith from the midfield which provided the assist for Planter’s second goal despite a suspicion of offside to make it 0-3 and secure the points for Beaches.

Delano Williams used the meet to prepare for his upcoming individual competitions.

Williams’s UWI team finish second at Gibson Relays TCI born athlete Delano Williams led his team to a second place finish at the Gibson Relays last weekend in Jamaica where he is based.

The World Junior 200M champion ran the 200M in the Medley relay. Williams, who

trains at the Racers Track Club with Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake among other big names, ran with students from the University of the West Indies.

He said that the run was just a developmental meet for the big races to come.

March 1 - 7, 2014

Sports National

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Southland Conference Indoor Champs:

Garland breaks national record twice in two days TCI’s sprinter Angelo Garland is the new national 400M indoor record holder. The freshman at the Texas A&M University Corpus Christi also etched his name in his school’s record books when he competed at the Southland Conference Indoor Championships on Wednesday (February 26) and Thursday (February 27) at the Birmingham CrossPlex Indoor Track in Birmingham, Alabama.

After running 48.99s last month at his university’s invitational meet (a school’s record), he was confident of breaking the national record, which he had just missed. Another US based athlete Ifeanyi Otuonye had held the indoor record (48.82s) since February last year.

Luis Turbyfield says he loves the aggressive contact and the flow of rugby.

Turbyfield would pick rugby over football in the long run – Excited about new rugby season in US VERY few athletes have played rugby and football at a national senior level for any nation. Fewer have done so as youngsters. So when national sportsman Luis Turbyfield has the option to choose one sport over the other it speaks volumes about what he is capable of.

The focused 17-year-old who is currently in 11th grade at the Archbishop Curley High School in Baltimore, Maryland is on a football scholarship. He dreamt of playing the sport at a national level as a child and throughout his younger years in Providenciales, where he was raised after coming from Virginia as a baby, he did so with grace. He was on the national senior team when TCI player the Bahamas in the World Cup Qualifiers in 2011, while he also played once for the U-21 team.

Turbyfield, who has always been sports driven, was also into hockey as a child and he remembers his days playing touch rugby at Club Med over a decade ago. It was here that he developed a likeness for the sport. He later joined the rugby youth programme where he honed his skills.

When he left on his football scholarship, he did not forget his rugby training, and when granted the opportunity to play the sport in the USA (for a men’s club) he pounced on it.

He has however been able to balance both sports into his schedule.

Football has given him his speed and as a striker he has helped his school

to the conference semi-finals both years. Rugby on the other hand has quenched his thirst.

Over the last few months Turbyfield has shown exceptional skills in rugby and is touted as one of the future stars of the sport. He was a part of the successful team that won the 2013 NACRA U-19 trophy and the senior team that won the NACRA sevens shield. In fact the youngster who plays fly-half was instrumental in the victory.

WHY RUGBY “I love both sports, but there is something about rugby that I love more.”

The youngster said that he decided last year (his second year in high school in the USA) that his true love was rugby.

“I love the sport (rugby); I love the aggressive contact and the flow of the game…. Personally I think i am better at rugby than I am at soccer.”

Currently the youngster had just started the 2014 rugby season (first game February 28) and he is pumped up and ready to create his mark at the Baltimore Poly Rugby Club.

After this season he is hoping to try out for the All American Rugby Summer Camp in a hope of making the Boys High School All American team.

Turbyfield has not forsaken football and is very happy with playing both sports, but his future lies with the oval ball.

Angelo Garland now has the 400M indoor record to go with his 400M junior outdoor record.

TWICE IN ALABAMA A confident and injury free Garland broke the national record on Wednesday when he won his heat with a time of 48.59s.

He entered Thursday’s final with the fourth best time and won his race of the two section final with a time of 48.47s, but finished third overall since the second race had two fastest times.

The former Munro College student Garland, who has improved tremendously over the years, is also the holder of the junior outdoor 400M record (48.14s).

Big 12 Indoor Championships:

Slightly injured Otuonye will give it his best TCI’s national long jump record holder Ifeanyi Otuonye will not be a 100% when he competes at the Big 12 Indoor Championships in Ames, Iowa, USA this weekend.

The Kansas State University sophomore suffered a slight injury during the triple jump recently and will only compete in the long jump and the 4X400M relay.

“I’m just trying to go out there and do the best I can. I know what I’m capable of doing even though it hasn’t happening yet, but I’m just being patient not forcing it to happen, but allowing it to happen naturally.”

Otuonye, whose best long jump is 7.40M, is hoping that he can still make some distance in this event.

“I’m just going to go there and do my best if it is a record then I’ll take it. Since it’s the Big 12 the stakes are up now and the pressure is on so it just may give me an advantage to do

Ifeanyi Otuonye has become a good relay runner.

something great.”

The 2011 Junior Commonwealth Games’ bronze medallist is also expected to be instrumental in

his school’s relay team. In fact the university’s coach has praised Otuonye for his spirited performances since his season started in January.

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March 1 - 7, 2014

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March 1 - 7, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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