TCWN November 16-22, 2013

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 45| November 16 - 22, 2013

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Turks and Caicos

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RODNEY ADAMS

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TCI’s Deputy Police Commissioner was charged with several corruption offences on Monday (November 11). 5 PAGE

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Lawyers charged with corruption appear in court PAGE  4

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Urban sport free-running hits Grand Turk Jump Fence Crew demonstrate their skills all over Grand Turk

Tough times call for tough decisions PAGE 

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Community supports victims of Philippines typhoon tragedy PAGE  8

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lawyers charged with corruption appear in court THREE prominent TCI lawyers, Tim O’Sullivan, Gordon Kerr and Norman Saunders, appeared before Chief Justice, Edwin Goldsbrough in a Providenciales court on Friday (November 8), for sufficiency hearings.

Appearing for the Crown was lead attorney of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT), Andrew Mitchell QC. Attorneys for O’Sullivan and Kerr - Carlos Simon Q.C and Conrad Griffith, respectively – both indicated to the court that they were not challenging the sufficiency hearings; as such a date was set for the plea and direction hearings (PDH).

However, this presented some issues as Mitchell requested that the duo next appear in court in January 2014 when they can have both the PDH and case management hearings.

The SIPT lawyer told the court that no member from the team will be in the Turks and Caicos Islands on November 25 – the date requested by the defence attorneys - to appear for the PDH.

Griffith and Simon both objected to this.

They submitted that if no SIPT member will be on island for the hearing then the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) should appoint someone to appear in court as the PDH has to be held less than 14 days after the sufficiency hearings.

They both stated that the PDH will be short and that following this the court can then set a date for the case management hearings.

Consequently, the Chief Justice instructed Mitchell that the SIPT should ensure that someone is on island for the hearing later this month. He stated that the substantive hearing can then be held in January.

Mitchell raised an objection to this, citing the costs.

The lawyer also requested that Justice Paul Harrison should be asked to come to the TCI earlier than July to try the case. He noted that the SIPT would be on island practically permanently by April.

The Chief Justice however pointed out that he doubts Justice Harrison will try these cases as he already has

Tim O’Sullivan

Gordon Kerr

Norman Saunders

a full complement of cases.

He added that he will identify a judge before the PDH later this month.

Justice Goldsbrough said they are aiming for the trial to be started in May 2014.

He further advised that bail for the two defendants is extended until November 25, at which time it will be further extended.

The defendants first appeared before Magistrate Jolyon Hatmin

on September 25 on charges of conspiracy to cheat the public revenue, cheating the public revenue and conspiracy to false account.

The Crown alleges that between 2005 and 2006 O’Sullivan and Kerr cheated the controller of stamp duty by falsely asserting that the value of a transaction for the sale of land and property at Emerald Cay on Providenciales was $11 million.

The true valuation of the private island property, the Crown alleges,

was about $28 million. As such, the loss to the public revenue is approximately $1.5 million.

Meanwhile, the sufficiency hearing for Norman Saunders was adjourned to December 6 as his lawyer, Guy Chapman was unavailable.

Saunders faces three new money laundering charges after the initial charges against him were voided in September. They were retaken later the same month by the SIPT. (DI)

Tough times call for tough decisions – Finance Minister explains tax increases IN HIS mid-year presentation on the economy to the House of Assembly, Finance Minister Washington Misick, while acknowledging the recent unpopular tax decisions, said he had no choice.

He said his approach to the economic situation is a combination of keeping finances tight, while making it a top priority to develop policies and initiatives to reignite growth.

“For the immediate future, I have had no choice but to make unwelcome decisions about tax…I know this has upset many people,

which is regrettable.”

The Minister stressed that these choices are not a betrayal of trust, further explaining the tough decisions that the Government is faced with.

According to him these decisions were made to safeguard the future of the people of the country during a time when the economy is still fragile.

“The good news is that after this current round of tough decisions, the tax increases that were essential to safeguard our future are made.

“Despite uncertainties, there should now be no reason for further

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

Finance Minister Washington Misick

increases in the tax level, especially if our economy can grow,” he assured.

Misick stressed that his attention is now on growing the economy.

He revealed that in the coming weeks he will be outlining a comprehensive strategy for growth and empowerment.

This strategy will describe the initiatives to be taken, detail how they will be delivered and provide an action plan of priorities.

It will also describe how partnerships between the Government, the community and the private sector will be developed.

Pointing to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) report of October 2013, which indicates a low gear growth in Latin American and Caribbean countries, the Minister said the TCI is one of the few exceptions to this prognosis, with some of the highest growth rates in the world over the last two decades.

He noted that even with the TCI’s debt level being what it is, it is still modest by Caribbean standards.

“TCI’s economy is projected to grow at a rate of 3.4 per cent in 2013 above the IMF estimate for the Caribbean as a whole.

“But we cannot take this for granted – the recovery is fragile and needs to be nurtured, and the debt needs to be serviced.

“It is against that background that my Government’s fiscal policy is framed.”

He further pointed to the decision not to implement value added tax (VAT) and the negative effects it has had on more progressive tax and transfer systems.

“Its complexity and susceptibility to fraud would have cost the Government millions in lost revenue, as the Europeans have discovered.

Many European countries are reconsidering VAT after 50 years, for a hybrid sales tax.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands was right to reject VAT. The question is what should replace it. That is the question the Blue Ribbon Commission (BRC) was tasked to answer.”

BLUE RIBBON COMMISSION The Minister added what while the commission’s mandate did not require any commentary or advice on the indicative new taxes included in the Fiscal and Strategic Policy Statement (FSPS) and the 2013/14 budget, certain items of taxation included in those documents if remained would potentially prejudice the recommendations that it may wish to make to Government.

This being the case, the commission was forced by circumstances to identify additional revenue for this year to compensate

for the ones it recommended to remove from the budget projections in the current year as well as the next, he explained.

“It is against that background, that the committee has examined the current revenue streams/taxes and made recommendations that would add almost $12 million to the annual recurrent revenue as of 2014/15.

“This is an approximate increase of seven per cent of the revenue generated in the 2012/13 fiscal year consultation.”

PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS On Wednesday (November 13), the commission’s report was presented to Cabinet. The next step is public consultations on the recommendations, following which it will be presented to the House of Assembly.

However, on Thursday (November 14) during the post Cabinet press conference, the Minister indicated that there are some measures inherent in the report that Cabinet needs to take a look at before the report is released for public discourse.

“Before we go to the public we need to identify the specific measures that we believe would be in the best interest of the community.

“We would have a discussion on the good, the bad and the ugly so that the public is fully informed as to what their options are.”

Asked if the consultations will take place this month as previously stated, the Minister said this is unlikely.

He explained: “That is unlikely continued 

November 16 - 22, 2013

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Leading police officer charged with corruption offences TCI’s Deputy Police Commissioner was charged with several corruption offences on Monday (November 11).

Rodney Keith Adams Snr is alleged to have acted improperly in his official role during his involvement in a murder investigation in which his son was a suspect earlier this year.

The leading police officer is now on bail and will next appear in Providenciales Magistrates Court on December 3 where he will have the charges read to him.

The acting deputy police chief first hit the news on Friday, October 11, when the Integrity Commission arrested him on reasonable suspicion of committing offences of corruption contrary to the Integrity Commission Ordinance.

He was interviewed and granted bail.

This week following further investigations, Adams was charged with a number of corruption offences.

Eugene Otuonye QC, director of the TCI Integrity Commission, confirmed in a press statement on Tuesday (November 12) that Adams will face a court hearing.

The charges are “in relation to the allegation of his improper

involvement in the police investigation of the murder of Kaziah Burke which occurred on or about April 13, 2013,” he said.

Adams has been granted bail to appear in court before Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner in Providenciales on December 3 to answer to these charges.

On Tuesday (November 12) attorney Jahmal Misick at Misick and Stanbrook released a statement on the charges.

He said: “Mr Adams maintains that the allegations against him are entirely without merit and questions the real reasons why these false allegations have been bought against him.

“He looks forward to a speedy trial so that his innocence can be established.

“No further statements will be made in relation to this matter.”

Otonye and Misick both said they were not at liberty to give the number or description of charges being laid against Adams.

Adams’ involvement in the Kaziah Burke murder case, a crime for which his son was initially charged along with Cortez Simmons, created some questions.

Chief Justice resigns TCI’s leading judge Edwin Goldsbrough has handed in his resignation, it was confirmed this week.

Governor’s spokesman Neil Smith revealed on Thursday (November 14) that he will be vacating his position as Chief Justice early next year, “I can confirm that the Chief Justice has tended his resignation and will be leaving in first half of 2014,” Smith wrote in a statement to the Weekly News.

English-born Justice Goldsbrough was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales in 1980 and obtained a post graduate Diploma in Business Administration in 1988.

He worked in court administration in England as well as in various high profile judicial and advisory roles abroad.

These included advising on the establishment of the Judicial College of Zimbabwe and the training of newly appointed judges.

He was training officer and Senior Crown Counsel on St Helena and Supreme Court and Appeal Court Judge of the Republic of Vanuatu.

And for six years he was High

Chief Justice Edwin Goldsbrough has handed in his resignation

Court Judge, Head of the Civil Division and acting President of the Court of Appeal in the Solomon Islands.

Goldsbrough also chaired the National Judiciary IT working group and devised and delivered training on new legislation for judicial officers.

In November 2011 he was appointed as Chief Justice in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Chief Justice has presided over a number of high profile cases such as the by-election challenge, armed robbery and murder trials.

The senior police officer’s alleged interference involved a delay in the transfer of his son to the Grand Turk lockups which raised procedural concerns.

He was later placed on administrative leave – a mutual agreement between himself and Police Commissioner Colin Farquhar.

Both men agreed that was the correct course in the interests of protecting the integrity of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) and Adams' reputation.

The Integrity Commission then launched a probe into the incident.

The charges against Roderick Adams, the acting Deputy Commissioner’s son, were later dropped by the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Rodney Keith Adams Snr was

Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams was charged with several corruption offences

enlisted into the RTCIPF on March 5, 1984, and has had a lengthy career with the police force.

He has served in several areas including the criminal investigation department, drug squad, community policing, joint intelligence unit and uniform sections.

Adams is the recipient of a number of awards including the Colonial Police Medal for Meritorious Service, Long Service and Good Conduct, Long Service and Good conduct clasp and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal.

He has also received a certificate of appreciation from the Drug

Enforcement Administration (DEA) for outstanding contributions in the field of drug law enforcement on two different occasions.

He also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Criminal Justice and Police Management from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom and a Level 7 Executive Diploma in Strategic Management from the Chartered Management Institute, United Kingdom.

Adams is married to Barbara Bonnie Adams and is the father of three sons, one who was killed in a motorcycle crash in 2011, and two grand-children.

Tough times call for tough ... continued 

to happen before the beginning of January because any broad-based revenue measure that we decide upon probably would not be introduced in April, maybe later down in the year.

“So we have some time and it is really something we don’t want to rush through.”

TAX HIKES In his presentation to the Assembly, the Minister also reminded members of the numerous tax increases and new introductions that were proposed in the FSPS, a number of which were scrapped or delayed on the recommendation of the Blue Ribbon Commission.

“There was an increase in accommodation tax of one per cent, general services tax was on the table but was removed because it was one of the areas that the BRC wanted to look at and they did not want the inclusion of it in the current revenue to prejudice the findings.”

He also named the communications tax, which was introduced in October; raising the current 10 per cent to 12.

He also mentioned the temporary driver’s licence which was also set to be implemented in October, and was scrapped on recommendation of the

commission.

“Customs duty based on cost, insurance and freight (CIF) was due to be introduced on July 1 that has actually been now pushed back and would probably not be introduced before the new financial year.

“Customs processing fee based on CIF likewise was due to increase the Government revenue. Of course since CIF is going to be pushed back, the basis of that calculation would also have an impact on the revenue stream.”

He added that the proposed property levy, set to be implemented January 1, 2013, is now being reviewed.

“If after consultation with the public this is one of the streams of revenue that the public supports, it would probably not come into effect before the beginning of 2015.”

The Minister pointed out that in the end, the commission did not have sufficient time nor resources to carry out the in-depth review, and analysis required to devise a tailor made system that best fit the economy of the TCI. As such, the work of the commission will have to be extended, and additional resources identified in order to carry out a scientific modelling of the recommended tax, as well as others, Misick advised.

As previously reported, the aim of the commission is to arrive at a broadbased structure that is fair, simple and easy to collect, and will in the end result in a lower average tax rate.

This mandate, Misick said, remains the same.

“In order to allow for full community consultation, it would not be possible to arrive at a decision before April of 2014.

“Therefore the final recommendation of the commission if accepted is unlikely to go into effect before January 2015,” he further advised.

Meanwhile, Premier Rufus Ewing, in his anniversary presentation to the House, reinforced the Finance Minister’s statements on the tax decisions and the efforts being taken to strengthen the economy.

“My Government is committed to ensuring that this country has a tax platform that is fair, broad based and one that can generate sustainable revenue for the government in an efficient manner with high compliance.”

He too pointed to the halt called to VAT, the establishment of the Blue Ribbon Committee and its role.

“Yes we have had to increase several taxes and introduce a few new ones in order to meet our fiscal obligations as outlined in the FSPS and the fiscal management frame work as agreed upon by the UK government,” Ewing admitted.

“But we see most of these as being transitional until such time that the new tax strategies are fully implemented and have the effect of reducing the tax burden.”

(DI)

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November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Tackling illegal immigration THIS year many hundreds of Haitian immigrants have illegally crossed dangerous waters in poorly constructed sloops in the hope of residing in the TCI. Minister of Border Control and Labour Don-Hue Gardiner last week said this year’s figures far surpass last year’s and lives will be lost if the problem is not tackled soon.

TCI-based Haitian Consul General Karlo Pelissier said he is determined to work to prevent illegal immigration.

However, some have said that his presence provides a safety net for law-breakers.

What can be done to prevent people risking their lives during illegal migration? Has the introduction of a Haitian consul helped or hindered the problem?

Closer economic ties

Of course presence of a Haitian consulate helps deal with the problem.

There is no evidence that presence of a consulate encourages people to migrate to TCI illegally.

With a consulate, Haitian and TCI officials can work more closely together to understand the problem and find appropriate solutions.

And the best realistic solution is more economic development in Haiti.

Through closer economic ties, TCI can play a big role in creating prosperity in Haiti that will relieve the poverty that drives the migration.

Radar station not effective

Does Gardiner really want to slow the flow of illegals?

This is another case where a local representative serves as a poor Minister.

The TCI is a stepping stone to the USA and that is why the illegals pay big dollars to come here.

The radar station is not effective but once we are independent and lose our 10 year visa

privilege the flow will slow.

Track vessels

The issue of Haitian illegal migration must be tackled between government to government.

The consul has nothing to do with this unless his office tolerates the act of its own people.

Everybody knows that the root cause of this illegal migration is the poverty in Haiti, that’s why the Haitian people are taking chances and risk their lives in search for a greener pasture.

This problem is difficult to deal with.

However, their illegal migration can only be addressed if their vessels are tracked before entering the TCI’s economic zone.

They can be processed in the middle of the seas and if found illegal, the TCI authorities could send their vessels back to its point of origin.

Haitian government foot the bill

I believe the huge effort made by the Government to open the doors to increased trade with Haiti has resulted in a feeling within the Haitian community that the TCI welcomes Haitians.

The implementation of the radar system has also meant we are catching a larger number of illegal sloops.

The real problem is that there is not enough effort by the Haitian government to stop the illegal sloops.

Before we opened the doors to a closer relationship with Haiti we should have firmly told them that until there was a significant decrease in the number of illegal sloops we would NOT be interested in closer relations.

The Haitian government is allowing the illegal sloop traffic and the people of the TCI are paying for it.

The Haitian government should foot the bill for repatriation of their citizens.

The introduction of the Haitian consul has given the Haitians the understanding that they will be welcomed and protected in the TCI. The Haitian consul should be told to provide a plan that his government will implement to seriously curb the flow of illegal sloops.

He needs to back-up his words with concrete action steps to stop this costly flow of illegal traffic from his country.

Anything else is just meaningless words!

Brits must step up

By our constitution (that the British re-wrote) the Governor is responsible directly for national defence.

We are being invaded regularly by a foreign country, bringing in illegal immigrants, guns and drugs.

The Brits need to step up to the plate and do their job.

They are holding us to the terms of their constitution, why do they not abide by it?

Minister not effective

Significantly more illegals are arriving since Don-Hue took over border control. Whatever he is doing is not working.

There has been an exchange of visits with top TCI and Haitian officials and still they come.

This Minister said we need to make Haitian lives unbearable in the TCI but despite billions of dollars flowing into Haiti after the earthquake they still come.

country’s interests to protect it borders with a defence force, create laws and enforce them to discourage their illegal integration.

I suggest if the Haitian embassy wants to seem effective and useful here they should start a programme to relocate the thousands of squatters living on land owned by the Government and pay for their repatriation.

Help from Bahamas and US

I think the Haitian consul is here to populate the Islands with migrants.

Monies we are told are being lent to start businesses and to empower them.

We have a real problem and the PNP Government better get serious. Stop playing with our future.

Don-hue Gardiner is not really equal to the task. He really needs to resign and let more competent minds prevail.

We are under threat as a people. Let us hope the consul is real.

Let us get help from the Bahamas and the US. This is urgent and dangerous.

No Haitian consul

Having a Haitian rep/ambassador is only securing that once the illegal Haitians arrive and put their feet on TCI land, it will be very hard for TCI immigration to repatriate them.

Please, please, look at the mess they have created in the Bahamas.

In the 60s and 70s one Bahamian politician, Lofus Roker, stood up in the Bahamian House of Assembly, and begged the members to put a plan in place to redirect the masses of illegal Haitians, because, they will be very sorry later in life.

Bahamian are now screaming.

They drain our country of its resources, ie education, overcrowding the classrooms and decreasing our literacy rate.

Social services and healthcare. If they have no job or money, someone has pay for their healthcare services.

Please, please, please, I'm begging you: Send the Haitian consul back to Haiti along with all of the illegal immigrants.

Relocate squatters

The world has given Haiti more than $400 billion and even cancelled their national debt several times over the years, all to put Haiti on a path of financial independence and social recovery to no avail or futile progress.

What can one do to help a man that doesn’t want to help themself?

One can only deduce from the whole scenario that it would be in this and every little

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Proceeds of Crime Bill amended and passed A CHANGE in a financial terminology inherent in the Proceed of Crime Bill has been amended and passed by the House of Assembly, bringing it in line with that of the financial action task force (FATF).

During the Monday (November 11) sitting of the House, Acting Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles advised that

the proposed amendment repeals the term non-regulated financial business (NRFB), substituting it with the term designated non-financial business and profession (DNFBP).

“A non-regulated financial business is a financial business that is not regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC).

“They are defined as casinos, real

estate agents, dealers in precious metals, dealers in precious stones, lawyers, notaries, other independent legal professionals and accountants.”

She added that it also refers to sole practitioners and partners employed within professional firms.

It does not refer to internal professionals that are employees of other types of businesses nor to professionals

working for business agencies who may have already been subject to anti-money laundering and the combating of terrorist financing measures.

The acting AG noted that the amendment merely seeks to change the title or the name of a term that is used; otherwise the underlying effect and definitions remain the same.

“It is the view of the Financial

Services Commission that the differences in terms; the term that is being proposed… is the term that is used by the FATF and the FSC is of the view that the differences in terms may lead to confusion and inconsistency.”

She added that it is for this purpose the FSC has urged the Government to adopt the FATF terminology. (DI)

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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$11.3m operating surplus and no new taxes – Finance Minister

MINISTER of Finance Washington Misick on Monday (November 11) reported to the House of Assembly that the financial out turn to date is ahead of expectations despite major challenges.

Hurdles included the unexpected delays in the introduction of some of the new tax measures and the introduction of the replacement taxes not included in the approved budget, Misick reported.

He emphasised that it is imperative that TCI Government’s fiscal targets for the financial year 2013-14 are met.

“For these targets to be achieved there will need to be no further delays on implementation of the planned and announced new taxes and a continuance of improving compliance and revenue collection,” he said, reiterating that no additional taxes are planned for the remainder of the financial year.

SIX MONTHS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE Updating the House on the six month financial performance, the Finance Minister reported a half year operating surplus of $11.3 million.

This, he said, is compared to a

projected surplus of $3.8 million, a positive variance of $7.5 million.

Total half year revenue collected between April and September 2013 was $95.5 million, compared to a budget of $95.6 million, with the projections for the same period, but $17.8 million or 16 per cent below that for the previous year, which was due primarily to non- recurrent revenue.

“Most revenue streams for the six month period were slightly ahead or on par with the projection, with the exception of customs processing fee and fuel tax; both of which are marginally below the budget.”

Additionally, the half year recurrent expenditure of $74 million came in about 11 per cent below budget estimates of $83.4 million for the period and a slight one per cent or $0.6 million above results for the same period last year.

“This outturn was due to savings and budgetary control exerted over personnel costs and other operating expenses despite the 10 per cent salary reinstatement being fully reflected this financial year,” Minister Misick said.

increasing the consolidated fund cash balance by the same amount.

He stated that this compares favourably with the projected cash flow deficit for the period of $8 million and prior year surplus of $16.1 million.

stood at $4.6 million.

This is $0.8 million below the budget of $5.4 million and $1.4 million ahead of the amount spent for the same period in the last financial year, the Minister noted.

Outstanding public debt “The Turks and Caicos Government’s outstanding debt as of September 30, 2013, is $212 million.

“Total debt repayments for the second quarter totalled $2.1 million and half year was $4.9 million,” the Minister said.

He added that all loan principal and interest payments are up to date as of September 30, 2013.

Consolidated fund He reported that the net cash flow for the period was $4.2 million,

National forfeiture fund “The national forfeiture fund balance at the end of October 2013 was $4.3 million,” the Minister said.

“Any balances over $2 million at the end of the financial year will be transferred to the consolidated fund in accordance with the Proceeds of Crime Ordinance.”

FINANCIAL OUTLOOK Going forward, he stated that a supplementary appropriation is being prepared for consideration by the Assembly for the emergence of additional historic liabilities, increased costs associated with repatriation of larger than anticipated number of illegal immigrants and additional funds required for healthcare.

He advised that government will be using the savings accrued to date to partially fund the additional costs; however there will be a need to continue and in some cases intensify cost control measures in all ministries and departments of Government.

Total revenue for the year 13/14 is forecast at $209.6 million, a negative variance of $4.4 million against the budget.

The major forecast revenue variances are a downward revision of $2.1 million in duties (freight and insurance tax); $0.7 million in licenses and non-recurrent revenue of $5.03 million, which is offset by a net increase in many of the other recurrent revenues stream.

He added that total recurrent revenue is therefore forecast to surpass budget by $0.6m, due to the enhance compliance, strengthening of relevant ordinances and fee increases in TCIG’s recurrent revenue heads.

“The decrease in other revenues reflects underperformance of SIPT/

Approval given for more projects by Cabinet APPROVAL was given by Cabinet at its meeting on Wednesday (November 13) for arrangements to be made for the operation of the Carnival and TCIG Infrastructure Improvement Account in Grand Turk.

Premier Rufus Ewing told the media on Thursday at the Hilly Ewing building on Providenciales that they will be identifying a number of infrastructure programmes which when implemented would improve visual environment for the benefit of the community, residents and improve visitor experience.

He said the Ministers of Finance and Government Support Services will work with the community to earmark the various projects that qualify for funding by the joint account.

“A number of projects were already identified and these will be worked on shortly by the Ministry of Government Support Services hopefully within the month of December and this would bring in much needed work to the Grand Turk community.”

Meanwhile, Cabinet also discussed the proceeds of crime fund, which was established as a funding mechanism to facilitate and support enforcement against money laundering and other financial crimes.

Ewing noted that this fund

is managed by a committee; the money laundering reporting authority.

He added that Governor Peter Beckingham was advised to approve the recommendations of the Money Laundering Reporting Authority to authorise expenditure from the fund.

This expenditure includes: “Thirty-five thousand dollars for the annual subscription to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, $12,656 for the upgrade of IT systems for the Financial Crime/ Intelligence Unit, $69,913 for the replacement of Sea Protector Engines in the RTCIPF, and $4,556 for the annual contribution to the Egmont Group.”

The Premier added that his Government sees this as important expenditure that will help to strengthen the country’s ability to detect money laundering as well as help the TCI fight the illegal drug trade and human trafficking from a marine standpoint.

Approval was also given for the award of contracts for repairs to be carried out on the Salt Cay clinic by Cabinet.

Additionally, the contract for the design, supply and installation of an integrated digital audio video recording and public address system for the Supreme Court on Leeward Highway, Providenciales was approved. (DI)

Sinking fund The sinking fund balance as at September 2013 stood at $43.7 million, with interest income of $44,007 generated in the second quarter of FY2013-14.

He added that net public debt at the end of September 2013 is therefore about $168.3 million when the sinking fund is taken into consideration.

Development fund Meanwhile, the total capital expenditure for the first six months

Civil Recoveries of $5.7 million.”

He forecasts the total recurrent expenditure to be $0.7 million over budget, due to unforeseen excess expenditure of the $1.38 million medical treatment overseas, $3.5 million hospital provisional charges and $1.3 million for claims against Government.

However, he added, this is offset by personnel savings of $2.7 million.

He stressed that urgent, effective and properly executed revenue improvement measures are ongoing and are a very important part of the discussion and strategic assessment regarding the revenue modelling process for fiscal 2014/15 and beyond.

“In the tradition of sound financial budgeting we have exercised prudence in our projections.

“However, I have been advised that the average booking pace for the resorts in Providenciales is up around 6 percent ahead of last year.”

Planning approvals for new development for the financial year 2012-2013 was $355,210,000 and already for 2013/14 that number is $196,850,000 for a total of more than $550 million, he added.

He said the total number of building permits issued in 2012 was 213, and 293 to date for 2013.

“The future for Government revenue in 2014/2015, and beyond gives cause for optimism; especially when taken together, with the uptake in luxury villa construction in Providenciales.”

According to the Finance Minister, it is possible that increased construction activity for the remainder of the third and fourth quarter will see increased duties from this source. (DI)

TCIG not in receipt of AG’s alleged $1m statement of claim ALTHOUGH reports in some sections of the media have made allegations of a one million dollar claim against the TCI Government by former Attorney General Huw Shepheard, the Premier has assured that he is not in possession of any such document.

He told the media on Thursday (November 14), during a press conference, that he does not know that the Government has received any statement of claim brought by Shepheard.

Efforts by this publication to track down the alleged claim over the past week, proved futile. When contacted, Registrar of the Supreme Court on Grand Turk, David Chetwynd said the suit has not been filed in that court.

He told this publication that civil suits are typically filed in the Providenciales Supreme Court.

When contacted, officials at that court advised that they are not in receipt of any claim up to press time.

Following his October 31 resignation as AG for the TCI,

Shepheard stated, in a press release through the Governor’s office, that he intends to sue the TCIG for reputational and other damages.

A media outlet over the past week reported that the former AG has outlined the nature of his claim in a letter to the Governor Peter Beckingham.

The news article cited what it called “impeccable sources”, claiming that Shepheard indicated in the letter that he was forced to resign, and as such is filing on the grounds of constructive dismissal.

Shepheard’s term in office over the past few months prior to his resignation was rife with conflicts with the elected Government.

The Premier and his Ministers are of the view that the former chief legal advisor for the TCI overstepped his bounds in the administration of his office, as outlined under the 2011 Constitution, and thus made their objections public.

Shepheard, on the other hand, consistently maintained that he was

legally appointed to carry out the functions that he did.

He hinted on a number of occasions that he felt the attacks were of a personal nature; even as Ewing repeatedly denied this.

Meanwhile, when asked at Thursday’s press conference about the status of his summons before the court questioning the authority of the AG of the TCI, the Premier stated that someone within the AG Chambers will have to answer the summons before the court.

“It is a matter in court, what was filed to the Supreme Court was a question on the constitution and that question should be answered by the Attorney General.

“It was not specific to the Attorney General in name; it is for the Attorney General to answer to the Supreme Court on a constitutional question,” Ewing reiterated.

Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles currently sits in that post, acting until an official appointment is made. (DI)

8

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

Community supports victims of Philippines typhoon tragedy “WE CAN’T embrace them physically, so we want to embrace them financially.”

Those were the words of Providenciales resident Alvin Macion whose family in the Philippines have been directly affected by one of the biggest tropical storms to ever strike land.

Macion and many other members of TCI’s Filipino community have spent the week ardently fundraising after Typhoon Haiyan wiped out thousands of lives and left millions more homeless last Friday (November 8).

Generous supporters have already donated more than $9,000 cash in Providenciales alone to go towards relief efforts.

But the fundraising does not end here - this week more events are planned to raise money to support those devastated by this huge natural disaster.

The Weekly News caught up with Macion at IGA supermarket on Wednesday (November 13) where he was stationed along with three friends Marty Galigao, Alex Distor and Jenvere Sayao.

The men are just some of the volunteers who have been offering their time to talk about the effects of the storm and ask for support.

Macion explained that his parents live in a city called Ormoc just two hours from Tacloban where the storm struck with full force.

He said that when he heard that the storm was coming he could not sleep and he stayed glued to the television for updates.

Luckily his family were not injured but their city is now lacking basic food, medicine and water supplies along with reliable communication.

Some of the money raised will go directly to help the families of TCI residents affected by the storm and the rest will go to general relief efforts, Macion told the Weekly News.

He said volunteers will continue to be stationed for donations at IGA until Sunday when they will also set up a stall at IGA Gourmet in Grace Bay. Alex Zaguirre, a Providenciales resident of eight years, told the Weekly News that although his mother and two brothers lived a safe distance away from the storm he was extremely distressed when he saw the destruction.

“I was crying, especially when I saw people who seconds before the storm hit were hand in hand with each other.”

He described scenes of devastation afterwards where whole families were reported dead.

“We have TCI families directly affected,” he said, “one whose house was destroyed, one we haven’t found yet – there has been no communication with his sister in Grand Turk – we pray he has gotten in touch.

“Another guy left Provo on November 3 and three days after hasn’t been able to contact his family who were right in thick of action.”

He said that as well as donations the Filipino community is asking for people to pray for their friends and family.

The country’s political leaders offered their support and condolences this week.

Premier Rufus Ewing expressed his sympathy at the House of Assembly on Tuesday (November 12) morning.

He said: “I would like to extend our deepest condolences and sympathy to the people of the Philippines and those in the Filipino community residing in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to the disaster that is facing that nation.

“I would like them to know that our hearts and prayers are with them.”

In a statement to press on Monday (November 11) Leader of the Opposition Sharlene CartwrightRobinson also offered condolences.

“For the past few days, we have

Still no date for Mike Misick’s arrival

PREMIER Rufus Ewing could offer no update on the extradition process of former Premier Michael Misick as to when he may be returning to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

When asked by the media during the post Cabinet briefing on Providenciales, Ewing said as far as he understands the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) and the Police department are still dealing with the matter.

“I have made enquires but I haven’t gotten anything confirmed

as to the timing when we can expect him,” he said.

The Governor’s office, through its press office had previously stated that they are going ahead with preparations with the local authorities for Misick’s eventual arrival.

It had also indicated that the public would not be made aware of the former Premier’s arrival long in advance.

Misick is expected to head straight to Grand Turk to appear before a Magistrate to be formally charged when he arrives. (DI)

Marty Galigao, Alvin Macion, Alex Distor and Jenvere Sayao collect funds for relief efforts at IGA

watched in horror as the tragedy unfolded in the Philippines,” she said.

“With a large Filipino population among us, we believe it fitting to offer our sympathy to those that live among us.”

She asked the TCI population to pray for the Philippines and the local Filipino community.

“We recognise that there is still great uncertainty as to the well-being of loved ones and we pray that God will give you his peace.

“As you and your country face the years of rebuilding ahead, it is our wish that you will re-emerge a stronger nation.”

Local school children are also playing their part in supporting the Filipino community.

On Friday (November 15) from 2pm to 4pm children at The Ashcroft School in Providenciales are helping to raise funds for relief efforts in the Philippines.

The school is holding a Fundraising Fair Appeal which members of the public are invited to attend.

Fun activities will include a soak the principal game, and there will also be a bake sale, ice-cream, a toy and books sale and a dress down day for the pupils.

Principal David O’Connell said he felt it was “a nice way to assist and support the appeal”.

In addition telecoms company Digicel has made its services available to assist in the fundraising efforts.

Customers can send a text message with the word ‘HEART’ to 5151, to bring relief to those desperately in need of food, water and shelter.

Each text costs $1 and all proceeds will go directly to the Filipino Community of the TCI (FILCOM) which will be passed on to the Philippines Red Cross.

The donation text drive will run until Friday, November 22.

CEO of Digicel TCI, E Jay Saunders said: “It was extremely heartbreaking to see the destructive force that tore through the Philippines.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the Typhoon Haiyan and our support extends to our brothers and sisters who reside

with us here in the TCI. “We find it our duty to help in times of need and this is certainly no exception.”

President FILCOM Rizaldy Gregorio said: “The Filipino Community of the TCI is overwhelmed with gratitude to

Digicel for assisting us in this very difficult time.

“We are far from home and it’s not possible for us to be there on the ground to help but we can help from where we are by sending something home.

“Please help us to rebuild by sending your text messages from your Digicel phone.”

Typhoon Haiyan - named Yolanda

by Philippine authorities - struck the coastal provinces of Leyte and Samar last Friday (November 8).

It was one of the most powerful storms on record to make landfall.

It swept through six central Philippine islands before travelling through Vietnam and southern China.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has put the official death toll at 1,833, as of 3am on Thursday (November 14).

The number of injured stands at 2,623 with 84 listed as missing.

Human Rights Commission Bill 2013 passed with amendments AFTER several hours stretched over a two day period, in the Committee of the Whole a finetooth comb and a magnifying glass were taken to the Human Rights Commission Bill 2013 before it was finally passed on Tuesday (November 12) in the House of Assembly.

The bill repealed and replaced the Human Rights Commission Ordinance 2008 in order to give effect to the provisions dealing with the Human Rights Commission established in the 2011 Constitution.

After the second reading of the bill and prior to the adjournment to the committee stage, several members raised concerns with the appointment process to the commission and the fundamental rights and freedoms of people enshrined in the constitution.

Acting Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, who presented the bill to the House for passage, noted that there appears to be some confusion about what a fundamental right is and what the commission is designed to do.

“The constitution sets out what the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual are; it is not the purpose of this bill.

“The purpose of the bill is to further establish the human rights commission which is already established in the constitution and in accordance with the constitution to provide a framework under which the commission performs the various functions and duties that are set

out under the constitution.”

Addressing the employment issues raised, BraithwaiteKnowles stated these issues are not fundamental human rights; they are in accordance with the employment ordinance and are matters for the employment tribunal, which is a separate body.

Listing the fundamental rights of persons living in the Turks and Caicos Islands under the constitution, she noted that although there is a right to life, there is no right to healthcare; a concern that was raised by a member of the House.

She further pointed out to members that the Human Rights Commission Ordinance pre-dates the 2011 Constitution, as such it provided as best as it could for the functions of and the establishment of the commission.

“In the same vein, legislation was made to re-establish and expand the role of the integrity commission which was also established before the 2011 Constitution, likewise this bill seeks to do the same in respect of the Human Rights Commission.”

She added that as such the additional powers for the most part are contained in the existing Human Rights Commission Ordinance that is in effect.

The Acting AG stated that the new bill is expanding on those provisions. She further pointed out that the Bill does not provide for the post of commission, but rather that of a chairman and members. (DI)

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Urban sport freerunning hits Grand Turk

AN EXCITING acrobatic sport that was born in the inner cities of France has made its way to the beaches and boardwalks of Grand Turk thanks to a group of young athletes.

Brothers 20-year-old Jason and 18-year-old Justin Okoye from Jamaica and their friend Devano Pierre, 21, make up the Jump Fence Crew (JFC).

Together they dash through the smallest of spaces and over the widest gaps while flipping, climbing and jumping to incredible heights.

The sport is free-running, a version of the holistic training discipline Parkour where participants move quickly through an urban area negotiating obstacles.

Parkour, which came about in the 1980s, was seen as being rigid with a strict philosophy, but the more flexible free-running was invented in 2003 and the sport became much more popular.

Runners were able to use any means to express themselves – often using acrobatic moves that were deemed unnecessary in the more formal Parkour.

In an interview with the Weekly News, Justin Okoye explained that JFC was formed back in Jamaica where the boys grew up.

“We were hanging out with friends one night back in Jamaica watching TV when a free-running commercial came on.

“We had always been adrenaline junkies so we decided to give it a try, starting that night.”

Two of the five members, brothers Jason and Justin, moved to Grand Turk in their teens when their mother got a job in the Islands.

While studying at HJ Robinson High School they used their spare time to hone their technique.

“We perfected our moves by watching countless tutorials on YouTube and also by trial and error and critiquing each other,” Justin said.

The boys often faced challenges as they learnt the discipline such as not being in the typical training environment.

“We would always improvise by using our bed mattresses as a safety bags and homemade ramps as trampolines, so getting hurt was always a regular occurrence.”

But it was worth the falls as their reward was “the thrill after learning a new trick and the friendship it builds”.

Along with free-running the boys are also media junkies and like to take photographs and make videos.

They have dozens to view on their YouTube channel jfcvideo1.

Next JFC hope to graduate from making free-running videos to exploring how to make short films.

Justin added that the brothers often train on the beach along with their friend Devano and welcome anyone who wants to join in.

“The fiscal tightening programme which began under the interim administration and inherited by my Government was therefore not discretionary. We had no choice.”

He added that the approach of doing more by way of fiscal tightening now, and less so in the future was a risky one.

“In the end, it contributed to the stalling of the economy in 2012, but we are now on our way to achieving economic stability and growth.

“Fiscal consolidation however remains a priority in an environment of tighter global financial conditions.”

Misick stated that in the end the fiscal adjustment will ensure that the country’s debt to gross domestic product (GDP) continues to decline, reducing the TCI’s risk premium when the times comes for the country to refinance its debt independent of Her Majesty’s Government guarantee in 2016.

To assist with that, the Minister said Government has put together a debt restructuring working group, and is commissioning a credit rating exercise.

“I have heard the complaints from sections of the private sector

9

Opposition walks out of Parliament, cite infringement of their rights MEMBERS of the Opposition on Tuesday (November 12) walked out of Parliament in protest to a decision

by Speaker of the Assembly to allow the Premier to recover a missed opportunity to address the House the previous day.

As set out in the agenda for the day when the Assembly met on Monday, ministerial statements were scheduled to be made before the reading of bills and before members retired to the committee of the whole to discuss the presented bills.

However, only two Ministers took the opportunity to make addresses to House, making way for the rest of the day’s business to proceed, and which ended late in the evening with the House in committee stage discussing the Human Rights Bill.

The following day, Premier Rufus Ewing moved for the Standing Orders to be set aside to allow him to make statements on his administration’s one year anniversary, to the protest of the Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and other members on her side.

She called for the business of the House to continue where it left off, stating that the time for ministerial statements had long passed.

As a result, Speaker of National Assembly, Robert Hall called for a vote of the House on how to proceed and ended up with a deadlock of eight on each side, with the two Governor’s appointed members abstaining.

‘Restructuring debt now is impractical’ – Finance Minister “CONTRARY to my view before coming into Government, research by my Government makes it clear that restructuring Government debt at this time is impractical, and if it were possible would significantly increase servicing cost, both in the short and long term.”

This pronouncement was made

by Minster of Finance, Washington Misick during his presentation to the House of Assembly on Monday (November 11) on the fiscal tightening measures of the Government.

He pointed out that there is therefore no early opportunity to reduce the overall level of taxation, if Government is to service the debt as currently provided for.

The agreement with TCIG interim administration and the United Kingdom government called for a commitment to structurally adjust its budgeting practice in order to secure a UK government guarantee for $260 million; this required fiscal consolidation, the Minister stated.

Consequently, the reduction of Government deficits and debt accumulation remains appropriate for the TCI, given its tight capacity constraints and limited fiscal space, he stated.

NEWS

regarding my Government’s revenue measures.

“My Government appreciates the fact that the business cycle affects the impact of fiscal policy on output, and that on average Government spending and revenue multipliers tend to be larger in downturns than in expansions - an example being quantitative easing in the US.” He noted that the choice between upfront fiscal consolidations versus one on the back-end of a recession is not available to TCI for two reasons.

“We do not have the mechanism to manipulate monetary policy, nor the flexibility to increase our debt.”

He further advised that having stabilised the budget structure, there is now a freeze on new tax measures to those already announced.

“Future tax measures will aim to create balance, and efficiency, rather than higher rates.

“It therefore follows to reason that the combination of recent tax measures, and economic growth would make it unnecessary to hike tax rates.”

The Minister pointed out that all efforts are now focused on closing the negative output gap of the last few years. (DI)

Opposition Leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson

He thereby declared an impasse, until it was pointed out to him that he has a vote under the constitution, if not under the standing orders.

In making his decision to allow the Premier to make his statements, Hall told the Opposition benches that he did not think his decision infringed on their rights, as was pointed out by the Leader.

However Opposition members did not agree with this view, and walked out of the House. They returned when the House took up where it had left off on Monday night.

At the conclusion of Tuesday’s sitting, Cartwright-Robinson indicated to Hall that the Opposition intends to bring to the attention of the House and other relevant bodies a matter of serious conflict of interest displayed by his decision.

“That will be under the constitution, under the code of conduct,” she stated.

In response to this Hall said: “I am not going to sit here and allow certain things to take place, and members you must respect each others rights, and some of the utterances I hear coming forward are unnecessary.”

In statement to the media the PDM party observed that a few months ago, elected member Goldray Ewing cited the breaches of the code of conduct as it related to ministerial statements.

“The Premier stated that the House of Assembly operates only under the standing order and no other document.

“Hon Clarence Selver rose to say that the Statement of Good Governance Principles, the constitution and the code under the constitution were all documents that the House must be governed by.

“The Speaker agreed with the Premier that the standing orders alone apply to the House of Assembly.”

The Leader of the Opposition wrote to the Integrity Commission the same day following this incident on July 1 for guidance, the statement read.

“The Integrity Commission referred the Opposition to the Attorney General who is adviser to the House.

“The Opposition in response declined to address it to the Attorney General as he was present in the House and offered no assistance.

“Yet the meeting immediately following, the Attorney General

sought to have the Speaker take action against the Leader of the Opposition and the Hon Vaden Williams under sections of the code of conduct and the constitution because of their statements regarding salary disparities between the contract head of department and the local head of department in the civil service.”

The Opposition statement stated that the AG failed again to correct the record of the House following statements made by the Premier and the Speaker dismissing the code of conduct which is in fact a creature of the constitution, the supreme law of the land.

As it relates to Tuesday’s incident, it continued, the Opposition has spoken publicly and the Leader of the Opposition included in her address to the new Governor her concerns over the failure of the Speaker to appoint crucial oversight committees.

This she cited in another House meeting was because the new constitution was not in line with the standing orders.

“The Speaker himself today [Tuesday] in abandoning his earlier ruling not to vote, mentioned the pleas of the Opposition and committed to a meeting of the Standing Orders Committee to address the matter which the Opposition since November had asked him to do.”

This is why the Opposition feels strongly that the Speaker should not have exercised his casting vote until he had fixed the problem that he chose to ignore, the statement said.

“Whilst the constitution said that he had a casting vote, he should not have exercised it knowing that he was at the core of the problem as chairman of the standing orders.”

The PDM believes that the Speaker should not have voted as he was at fault for the position of the standing orders and the constitution still being at odds nearly a year later and with the Government in its apparent style, using laws to its advantage when it wants to and doing away with provisions of the constitution when it suits them.

Persons who missed opportunities ought not to be allowed to manipulate a system and use the Constitution previously ignored to further personal agendas, the PDM maintained.

It added that the House is the people’s House and though the Government is the Government of the day, the Speaker is to govern the House and to ensure that all members’ rights are protected.

“We reject the Speaker’s position that the Opposition’s rights were not infringed.

“We are also calling on the Premier and the Speaker to retract the statements made by them both during the meeting of the House of Assembly on July 1, 2013, where they both made reference to the inapplicability of the code of conduct in the House,” the party statement read.

10 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

One year in office ONE year after the PNP won a place as the TCI’s first democratically elected Government since 2009, Premier Rufus Ewing talked progress and plans.

He told the House of Assembly meeting on Monday (November 11) that the Government is “unwavering” in its quest to make a better life for the people and added that he is “encouraged by the promise of that which is still yet to come”.

During his speech Ewing discussed progress made with the economy, jobs, education, culture and national pride, healthcare, immigration and the environment.

But in addition “it has been our task to heal a broken nation, to unite, to give hope and restore the dignity and re-instil national pride across the length and breadth of these our Islands,” he said.

“The winds of change have already begun blowing across our country, and were we to measure progress by only these things, then I am certain that all would agree that we have progressed.”

He said that more than 70 per cent of PNP’s commitments outlined on pages 12 to 19 in their manifesto have either been completed or are in some stage of development.

“Some might argue that progress is not occurring at rapid enough rate, but my Government remains equipped and committed to the task of addressing these challenges head on in the best interest of the people of these beautiful by nature islands.”

ECONOMY AND JOBS Ewing began by highlighting a few of the Government’s priorities and achievements within the economy.

He said that it is committed to ensuring that the country has a tax platform that is fair, broad based and can generate sustainable revenue in an efficient manner with high compliance.

As a result the Government halted value added tax (VAT) and established a Blue Ribbon Committee recommend the best tax strategies after consultation with the public.

The Premier admitted to raising current taxes and introducing new ones in order to meet fiscal obligations.

“But we see most of these as being transitional until such time that the new tax strategies are fully implemented and have the effect of reducing the tax burden,” he said.

He added that the Government is committed to the creation of jobs and the placement of Turks and Caicos Islanders in these jobs.

Some of the strategies to achieve this include the reinstatement of civil servants’ 10 per cent pay cut, the creation of new middle and senior management posts, budgeting for new capital projects and active engagement of new developers on stalled projects.

The Government has also encouraged Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) through the

development of a new investment policy and the reinstatement of a TCInvest-like agency, and developed an infrastructure pipeline of major projects some of which will be developed as public private partnerships (PPP).

The employment and immigration ordinances have been amended, immigration protocols developed, and employment services strengthened, the Premier said.

Finally an apprenticeship programme has been developed in collaboration with private sector partners to ensure training and employment of young adults into skilled jobs and top management professional jobs.

Ewing added that the Government is committed to the creation of a business friendly environment and the facilitation of small and medium size businesses especially for Turks and Caicos Islanders.

He described several initiatives such as a review of policies, a review of business licence categories, the development of a Young Adult Empowerment Policy, and the development of a SME Agency in collaboration with the private sector.

TOURISM The Government is committed to the diversification of the economy so as to reduce reliance on hotel based tourism as the main revenue earner, the Premier said.

Initiatives include the diversification of the tourism sector, the creation of policies on eco-tourism, yachting tourism and medical tourism, the transfer of heritage and culture to the Ministry of Tourism, the development of a manufacturing policy, the expansion of the financial services industry and the implementation of an aircraft registry.

In addition the Government has begun exploring of potential of deep sea fishing and aquaculture and has begun a review of the sea ports of entry with the intention of developing a major port of entry on the island of East Caicos.

“This venture once realised, will be a significant direct revenue earner with the spin off effect of lowering the cost of goods into Turks and Caicos, lowering the cost of fuel and energy and generally lowering the cost of living,” Ewing said.

Phase three of the expansion project of the Providenciales International Airport is in consideration, and the Government has committed to holding a major tourism and investment conference in TCI. “Due to financial constraints and other setbacks we were unable to host this conference this year but we have committed to hosting one in 2014,” he said.

EDUCATION “In order for our country to achieve sustainable economic growth and development, the education of our people is a critical requirement,”

protocol, policies and procedures for ratification through legislation of national symbols and other items of national significance and interest.

He added that the Government is committed to introducing programmes in 2014 to promote heritage tourism.

“As a nation we must ensure the preservation of our nation’s heritage and culture in the face of rapid population growth and ethnic diversification,” he said.

Premier Rufus Ewing

Premier Ewing stated.

He said that the Government had promised to conduct a stakeholder and public consultation on education to develop an education policy that meets TCI’s developmental needs.

This consultation was conducted and the results of the consultation will soon be made available to the public and recommendations made to inform a new education policy.

Initiatives by the Ministry of Education, Youth Sports and Culture include support for the recruitment of an Education Planner, the provision of temporary classroom space on Providenciales at the primary and high school levels, the rebuilding of the Ona Glinton Primary School and the building of the HJ Robinson High School administration block and auditorium in Grand Turk.

High school labs have been upgraded, a strategic plan developed for the TCI Community College, partnerships developed with the private sector in hospitality programmes and partnership created with regional universities.

In addition the Ministry has introduced vocational training at the Community College starting with auto mechanics, and collaborated with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and universities in the expansion of a formal vocational training programme.

Early childhood education will be strengthened through the development of specific policies which will be deliberated in Cabinet by the end of November, Ewing said.

And a Youth Empowerment Survey will discuss details of the National Youth Policy and the development of a Young Adult Empowerment Policy.

CULTURE AND NATIONAL PRIDE Ewing said that culture and national pride have been given a place of “highest prominence and importance” to ensure its development and preservation.

The Government has already established the National Honours and Awards Committee which is developing policies and making recommendations for legislative amendments to ensure that deserving persons are recognised for their contributions.

In addition a protocol committee has been established to develop

HEALTHCARE In his address on healthcare Ewing stressed that “the health of the nation is still the wealth of the nation”.

“Sustainable economic development could only be achieved if our population remains healthy with a long and high quality of life.”

Going forward the Government plans to commit to the World Health Organisation (WHO) initiative of Health in all Policies, he said.

Primary healthcare has been strengthened through the employment of public health and nursing personnel to strengthen surveillance, prevention and curative primary care programmes.

Progress has been made with the redevelopment of the Salt Cay Clinic, and the completion and opening of the Middle Caicos Clinic is provided for in the 2013-14 capital budget.

The establishment of the Public and Environmental Health Laboratory that is critical to communicable disease surveillance and control is underway.

And improvements are being made in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) with the procurement of new ambulances and staff training.

“There is much more that can be accomplished and will be accomplished as more funding becomes available,” the Premier predicted.

Regulations that will strengthen the capacity of the Ministry of Health to oversee all healthcare providers, facilities, health techniques, health technologies and health standards are now poised to bring to Cabinet and the House of Assembly.

The National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) has reviewed issues of the National Health Insurance Ordinance and regulations.

These will be re-submitted to Cabinet for approval, public consultation and debate in the House of Assembly.

The financial audit of the hospital has been conducted and issues related to some information gap are being addressed before finalisation of the report, which was presented in draft.

Meanwhile the Contract Management Team and the Service Review Board are looking at areas where expenditure can be reduced without compromising care, strengthening compliance with contract and accountability and strengthening service delivery.

The Government is working with the hospital to develop medical

November 16 - 22, 2013

– Premier talks about Government’s achievements tourism while being careful to not affect care to NHIP sponsored patients.

It is also working via NHIB to improve access to cost effective overseas medical care and affordable at home tertiary care programmes.

Finally commitment to the future delivery of healthcare includes training, support and encouragement of health professionals.

IMMIGRATION Immigration is both an answer to economic challenges and a major problem, Ewing told the House on Monday.

“My government is committed to growing the population of these Islands as sustainable economic growth for all would only come with a progressively larger population.

“However, our challenge lies with the control of the rate and character of growth.”

He said that uncontrolled and erratic growth is what is currently being experienced and added that illegal immigration is a major hindrance to sustainable economic development.

The first step towards battling the problem involves the amendment and strengthening of immigration legislation, Ewing stressed.

Legislative review has taken place and the AG’s Chambers will be provided with drafting instructions after which a public consultation will take place on recommendation of Cabinet.

The Government has also restarted the border management project that seeks to develop a robust electronic database that will ensure that people entering and leaving the country are properly documented and accounted for with red flags for expiration of entry and residency permits.

A MOU between TCIG and Haiti is currently being drafted relating to the prevention and control of illegal immigrants and subsequent repatriation.

The Government will be in active dialogue with the FCO to receive support from the UK government on implementing programmes to strengthen surveillance and detection at the border.

The new immigration bill will make provisions attaining Belongerships other than through marriage or descent.

The Ministry of Border Control and Labour has completed the draft of the Employment Bill and will be seeking to submit this document for public consultation shortly.

It is also hiring a consultant to conduct a skills audit for the Employment Services Unit to help with matching available skills to jobs.

ENVIRONMENT The Premier stressed that proper management of the environment is essential to sustainable development of the TCI as tourism is the major continued 

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November 16 - 22, 2013

It is that time of year again when we call on all businesses in the Islands to express thanks to their customers for their patronage throughout the year and wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

And we are happy to take this opportunity to thank you for your faithful patronage over the past 31 years and your encouragement in making this newspaper the most trusted and dependable news source in the Turks & Caicos Islands. Thank you for your faithful support as we strive even harder to earn your trust in the years ahead.

As you can expect every year this time, a representative will be calling on you to place your ad in our Special XmaS Supplement. We would be happy to accept your own design, or we can prepare one for you for a small fee, or you may choose a pre-designed ad from our special Xmas catalogue at no extra cost.

Publication date for our Christmas Special is December 14 and advertising deadline is December 10. We do not want you to miss this special year-end edition, and we look forward to your continued participation.

We thank you in advance for your support, as we look forward to seeing you soon.

Yours with thanks and warm greetings for the Xmas Season!

T urks and C aiCos

Weekly News

November 16 - 22, 2013

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Protect juveniles – Open letter to Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar Dear Sir, This letter comes as a citizen’s request to have the police force, which falls under your command, cease and desist from laying adult charges against juveniles in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In a press release issued by the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force earlier this week, it was noted that officers of the law had laid serious criminal charges against a female juvenile and caused her to be arrested and detained in Her Majesty’s custody for an undisclosed amount of time.

While I am in no position to say whether or not infractions of the law were committed, or whether or not the accused was part of or party to such infractions if committed, I can say that in my personal opinion, the strong hand of the law will do the country no justice by dragging this young lady through the court system at her tender age.

Sir, if I may add this is not the first such instance and over the last year I can recall a number of cases where juveniles were hauled in front of judges in both the magistrate’s and supreme courts in the Turks and

Caicos Islands, charged, arranged, remanded and imprisoned as adults.

The revolving door set a spinning and the individuals rotating getting younger and younger.

Let’s look at this objectively. In other areas of law we recognise the differences between children and adults.

Children are not permitted the same rights and responsibilities as adults (eg voting, buying booze, smoking, joining the police force, etc) because we recognise their inability to make adult decisions.

Why don't we recognise the same difference in the criminal law?

We don’t say: “This is a very important election, so let’s let the kids vote.”

We don’t say: “This is a very important war on crime so let’s give our children evidence bags and send them to fight crime.”

So why do we say: “This case is different and this kid deserves to be treated as an adult and locked away in a prison?”

Psychological research confirms what every parent knows - children, including teenagers, act more irrationally

and immaturely than adults.

Studies further confirm that stressful situations only heighten the risk that emotion, rather than rational thought, will guide the choices children make.

Christianity teaches that we should train up a child in the way he should go - what happens when we train up our children in prison?

Mr Commissioner, your release did say whether a competency proceeding had taken place in relation to this juvenile, but in this case the burden is on the state to prove that this child is competent to stand trial in an adult court system.

As Commissioner, you bear the burden of assuring the public, that the force which you command is not subjecting incompetent minors to the rigors of an adult court system, prior to trial.

“Adult time for adult crime” may be a catchy phrase but it reflects a poor understanding of criminal justice principles.

If the punishment is to fit the crime, both the nature of the offense and the culpability or moral responsibility of the offender must be taken into account.

Confused

As the courts around the world have repeatedly recognised, the blameworthiness of children cannot be equated with that of adults, even when they commit the same crime.

Sir, children in adult prisons are five times as likely to be sexually assaulted, twice as likely to be beaten by staff, 50 per cent more likely to be attacked with a weapon and eight times as likely to commit suicide as children in juvenile facilities.

The TCI has no juvenile facilities and as such, juveniles being tried in

our courts can very possibly end up in adult prisons.

You as Commissioner have a responsibility to ensure that the actions of the force do not result in individuals, especially minors, being subjected to unpleasant circumstances needlessly.

In closing I am hereby admonishing you to seek the assistance of the TCI Welfare Department in immediately procuring suitable accommodations for minors who may have reason to fall into police custody in future, budgetary constraints cannot and will not be accepted as a valid excuse, and not a day should be wasted in hastening this provision into place.

A copy of this letter is copied to the Human Rights Commissioner, UNICEF and the TCI Governor.

Sincerely, Devon Williams

Response from Commissioner of Police Dear Mr Williams, Please be advised that the charges laid against the 15-yearold juvenile followed the proper procedure of having a parent/ guardian present along with a representative from the Social Welfare Department during the interview and the charging process.

When taken before the court, the juvenile will be considered as a juvenile and if found guilty, the punishment could be under the Juveniles Ordinance or under the Probation of Offenders Ordinance.

Sincerely, Colin

COMMENTARY

We have to admit to being a news nut. We watch and listen to every side of every story from around the world. We often end up confused. We just can't figure out how politicians, newsmen and voters reach some of the conclusions they report.

In the USA reports are that the government shut down cost US tax payers 24 billion dollars. Where is this cost ? The government employees that stayed home are all being paid.

They turned off the lights and AC when the left their offices and that is a savings. Had they gone to their offices they would only stand around the water cooler or

By David Tapfer drink coffee.

Then there is the global warming issue. It does seem to generally be getting warmer. However according to a 30 year old National Geographic magazine article the glaciers have

SPACE IS LIMITED!

been melting for 14,000 years. The largest supply of fresh water in the world is the 5 Great Lakes which were scooped out by glaciers during the ice age . Glaciers that melted thousands of years before man appeared.

In fact 2 year reports indicate fresh ice is forming in the arctic. Al Gore says cold Chicago will soon have TCI weather and New York and TCI will be underwater !

Save energy says the US government and Gore while the former VP and his wife live in a 10,000 square foot house, warmed and cooled by energy. The US government buildings are kept icy cold while we burn coal, diesel and nukes to create the energy to power

the AC. The same fuel used to charge “clean” electric cars with massive toxic batteries. Use the new light bulbs they say, but they contain toxic mercury. We are confused Now reports are that Mike Misick has not been fighting extradition.

Why did he run and hide in the first place ? Political persecution from what group ? The British Labour government that gave him the 2003 by-election and 2006 constitution then later held the inquiry ? Perhaps the 2010 coalition government including the Conservative Lord banker who financed Mikes projects ?

Ewing promised to “hit the ground running” but it is now AG Shepheard that ran. The old saying is “he who hits and runs away, lives to hit another day” Will Shepheard make good his threat to sue the PNP government ? Not if Bill Hague gets him another job !

Spied on woman Angela Merkel of Germany, former British PM Margaret Thatcher and Hilary

Clinton are accepted as female qualified world leaders while Sharlene Cartwright Robinson , who got more votes than our Premier, can only lead the TCI opposition ? Maybe because of the reputation of those three lady PNP ministers who are accomplishing zip ?

Question: After four failed administrations and the failed bank how can PNP claim better qualifications than PDM ? That is a question for the PDM to ask itself. Reviewing the election results and feed back none of the Caicos Island swing voters wanted Skippings. Nevertheless Skip says the PDM can not win without him. That my friends is real confusion.

We thought the causeway was built to let people into beautiful Middle Caicos but the only ones coming in are expats and tourists.

TC Islanders are moving out thanks to years of PNP family island mis-management.

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

16 NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

OMG, Dominick Rolle, Hezron Henry, Zelma Hernandez and Dre Rolle

Local poetry exhibition deemed success YOUNG poetic individuals put on a second edition of their poetry exhibition on Sunday (November 10).

The showcase took place at Fun World TCI in Providenciales and addressed topics such as domestic abuse, love, cultural heritage, religion and even sex.

According to the performers, not only did this spread awareness of these topics, this initiative also gave them a positive form of expressing themselves.

Towels of Babel, Volume Two opened with a stirring display of photography and graphic art from Lee Welch (Caylight), Dominique Rolle (DRolle Photography) and Caicos Creatives.

One of the highlight pieces performed included an eight minute spoken word poem intertwined with acoustic guitar and singing performed by OMG, Dre Rolle, Zelma Hernandez, Hezron Henry and Dominick Rolle.

These were all played with background music from Janelle Monae, Olivia Graveley Erykah Badu.

The show then progressed into an opening spoken word piece which had no introduction to the poet or

CEO of Digicel TCI, E.Jay Saunders ready for take-off on one of the prizes

Win great prizes with Digicel’s Christmas Promotion

BY DAISY HANDFIELD the name of the piece, but according to co-host Hezron Henry, set the stage theatrically for the rest of the performers and the showcase.

Next performances by singers and rappers all intertwined with the talents and performances of thought provoking spoken word poetry.

Lemans Welch served as host for the evening of art.

The show featured pieces from Hezron Henry, Brusnite JeanLouis, Dominick and Dre Rolle,

OMG, Charvis Ferguson, Phillippa Mayham, Twis Flo, Melinda Welch, Holly Missick, Vanessa Hall, Charrish Ferguson, Zelma Hernandez and Trigga Api of Blakout Crew.

Organisers say that overall the event was well attended and highlighted the exceptional talents of these young individuals.

Some of the work can be viewed on their website, www. towersofbabel.weebly.com. (DAISY HANDFIELD)

Public meeting to discuss single use plastic bags A GROUP of environmental activists are holding a meeting to discuss the disadvantages of single use plastic bags this month.

Turks and Caicos Environmental Club (TCEC) is gathering on Wednesday, November 27, at 6.30pm at the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs in the Bight, Providenciales.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting where guest speaker Ramez

Hakoura of TCI Waste will be talking about his views on the troublesome bags.

Club member David Stone also plans to present the results of research he has conducted over the past year.

“The first meeting of the season for the TCEC will be a discussion about a serious problem on TCI - what to do about the thousands of single use plastic bags that are used and discarded annually?

“Please come and hear from

TCI Waste's Ramez Hakoura and me as we present some of the challenges and possible solutions.”

Stone said the discussion promises to be lively and invites everyone to attend.

Light refreshments will be available and a small voluntary donation will go to cover costs.

Attendees are also welcome to bring their own refreshments but single use water bottles are banned from the meeting.

A PRESS conference was held at the Digicel’s headquarters in Providenciales on Friday (November 8) to highlight some of the great prizes that their customers can win this year and also introduce the Digicel DL700 smartphone.

Customers who purchase a Smartphone or sign up for a 4G plan during the Christmas Promotion will automatically be entered to win weekly prizes including data giveaways.

Some of these prizes include rent or mortgage payment, utility bill payment, gas vouchers, grocery vouchers, a $500 cash prize, hotel weekend stay or an airline voucher.

Prepaid customers can also win great prizes by topping up their Digicel mobile phones.

Aside from the great prizes, officials from the telecommunications company took the opportunity to announce the availability of a new Digicel Smartphone, Digicel DL700 Smartphone.

According to Chief Operating Officer (CEO) of Digicel TCI, E.Jay Saunders, this phone can almost run in the same race as any of the other name branded leading Smartphones in the market.

The difference Saunders said

is that it will be more affordable, respectively at $125 post-paid and $150 prepaid.

He said: “Delivering an even bigger and better Android experience, the all new DL700 boasts a host of enhanced features including a bigger four inch display, new five megapixel rear camera- and with its 1.3Ghz faster dual core processor, customers can do more, play more and share more- and choose from over a million apps in the Google Play store.”

He said that with the continuing rollout of its 4G and Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks across the Caribbean and Central America, Digicel’s sights are firmly set on ensuring that everyone everywhere can benefit from access to the superfast internet speeds at affordable prices and achieve extraordinary things in their everyday lives.

“Every year we see growth and today we are surprised that even with renewed vigour by our competitors, we’re still growing,” he said.

Head of Marketing, Ava-Dayne Fulford said: “Digicel aims to make Christmas a little brighter for our customers this year and we are sure that when you are looking for that perfect gift at an affordable price, you can find it at Digicel.”

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

17

Lifestyle...

18

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

fitness Tip 

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.

By Dr. Joe LeMoine

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician

Sports and “Invisible” Disabilities Sports for individuals with physical disabilities have made tremendous strides over the last 30 years. In 1985 para-athlete Rick Hansen trekked around the globe to raise money and awareness in his “Man in Motion” tour that raised millions of dollars and inspired a hit song.

In the last Olympic Games we witnessed a bilateral amputee run in the 400m semifinals. But there are

other individuals who have unseen disabilities; spanning from learning disorders to attention deficit to Asperger’s syndrome and to autism who also look to get in the game.

These individuals benefit from sports as everyone else. The social environment of sports, the challenges of competition and the learning of healthy lifestyles are important for everyone. For children

Weekly Recipe

Banana bread with passionfruit butter SERVES: 6

with disabilities it can improve social skills, self – confidence and acceptance. Coaches, parents and organizers need to be aware of that there are no physical signs of learning challenges but should consider them in establishing an inclusive sporting experience.

Some children with extreme communication and interaction difficulties such as severe autism usually can excel in individual sports such as cycling, swimming, sailing or karate, where the emphasis is on self directed skills. Where most other children with learning or communication challenge can enjoy team and individual sports fully. In both these situations it is the

attitude of the coaches, parents and organizers that will ensure success.

Instructors should take the time to identify and focus on what proficiencies the child has and use this as a platform to develop other skills. Find out what the athlete enjoys, their interests and objectives.

Develop a plan to engage the child into the program.

Instructions may need to be adapted to ensure that there are fewer distractions. Consider using demonstration more than verbal instruction. Avoid information overload by breaking down the lesson and skills into smaller pieces.

When communicating be sure to have eye contact and pace yourself.

Keep explanations concise and be prepared to repeat if necessary.

Try to organize games and practice into a structured routine to improve familiarity and decrease anxiety of the unknown. In team sport environment ensure that all the members of the team are given an opportunity to thrive and acceptance by all team members is expected.

All children enjoy and benefit from sports. Coaches and organizers need to be pro active in creating a sporting environment for all.

Spectrum of Hope 

The shadow knows!

INGREDIENTS • 1 2/3 cups (250g) plain flour • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/3 cup (75g) caster sugar • 1/3 firmly packed cup (65g) brown sugar • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 3 bananas, mashed • 250g cream cheese • 1/3 cup (4 tbs) good-quality lemon curd (see note) • 1/4 cup (40g) icing sugar, sifted • 1/4 cup fresh passionfruit pulp (from about 4 passionfruit) DIRECTIONS • Preheat the oven to 160°C and grease and line a 10cm x 20cm loaf pan.

• Sift flour and baking powder into

a bowl, then stir in sugars and cinnamon.

• Add eggs, vanilla and banana and stir until well combined.

Spread into prepared pan.

• Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.

• Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

• Meanwhile for the butter, place cheese, lemon curd and sugar in a food processor.

• Pulse briefly until just combined (don’t overwork or it'll be too runny).

• Add the passionfruit and pulse 2 to 3 times to combine. Chill until ready to serve.

• Slice the banana bread and serve with the passionfruit butter.

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.

“Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” What an awesome catch phrase! The radio program that was responsible for making that phrase an American institution spoke of an ominous vigilante who possessed the power to cloud the minds of the villains he pursued, thus, becoming virtually invisible. SWEET! Now, as amazing as being an aide is, I cannot claim supernatural psychic powers.

All I can say is that it is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, and worth every moment. Now understand that in an ideal world, a child with Autism would have a Behavioral Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Speech/ Language Pathologist, Classroom Teacher and Aide. And each of the members of this team would have a job to do and would see this child at various intervals during the day.

But due to logistical shortages in our nation (which we can address later), I serve as all of those minus Classroom Teacher.

This is NOT to toot my own horn.

This is to illustrate to you that it CAN be done. Until the day arrives that consistent local services are

By Nicole Cox available, it is almost mandatory that parents see themselves as any one (or more) of these roles. Research and information compiled from professionals can be put into practice by mom, dad, aunt, uncle, cousin, or anyone with the drive to learn it. It is difficult, but not impossible.

The shadow for a child must become completely invested in the child or children he or she services.

They must not only be competent and confident in their own skills, but should be able to read their child and developments or changes in that child’s behaviors/skills.

They will have to be able to take data on these things and relay the information to the necessary therapists. They will have to be observant, persistent, consistent, intuitive and inventive. Besides the prescribed methods to follow, there are moments of spontaneous

teaching that must be seized. An aide must be looking for moments to increase a child’s learning. Not just waiting for the next moment as dictated.

Also bear in mind that the deficits of the child will always dictate the focus points of the day, and therefore the amount of time spent in each discipline. If you are in my position, where multiple roles must be played, they you go by the directives outlined by the Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) who wrote the IEP. The advantage of having a BCBA write the IEP is that she can also train you in the techniques necessary to execute the protocols.

If you have a BCBA as thorough as ours, Tameika Meadows, M.Ed. BCBA, then you probably get more information and directive than what you even want! But with a well written IEP, a shadow will know exactly what to do and even learn how to improvise along the way!

So, armed with the knowledge as taught by professionals, any invested person can successfully become a shadow for a child with learning needs…once again…no mindreading powers included.

November 16 - 22, 2013

Lifestyle...

YOUR DIET

19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

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

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

Diabetes and its complications Diabetes is sometimes viewed as a not-so-serious disease because the effects on the body are not readily seen. Persons may say, ‘I have a little sugar’ or ‘The doctor said I have a touch of sugar.’ These conditions do not exist; a person either has diabetes, too much sugar in the blood, or may be pre-diabetic. Being pre-diabetic means having higher than normal blood sugar levels but not high enough to be call diabetes. Statements like those above let me know that many people are not fully aware of what the disease is, how it works and the negative effects it can have on the body if not managed properly.

There are many complications associated with diabetes; these include, but not limited to: Hyperglycemia, Hypoglycemia, Neuropathy, Nephropathy and Retinopathy.

Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia is an abnormally high level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It may be caused by ignorance--you do not know you have the disease; eating too many carbohydrates at one time or not taking the medications as prescribed. If blood sugar is not lowered, it can lead to confusion and possibly coma.

Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is extremely low blood glucose.

It may be caused by accidently taking too much insulin or other medication or not eating for long periods of time. Symptoms include sweating, trembling, anxiety, nausea, dizziness, confusion, tiredness, headache, and difficulty concentrating.

Having uncontrolled blood sugar over a span of time can cause irreparable damage to the nervous system and a thickening of the blood which makes it almost impossible for the blood to properly circulate to the peripheral blood vessels in the hands, fingers, feet and toes. If blood is not able to get to the tissues, they die leading to the need for amputations.

Damage to the nervous system Nephropathy: This is the deterioration of the blood vessels in the kidney which eventually leads to kidney disease.

Neuropathy: Neuropathy is a disease involving damage to some of the nerves in the body, especially the peripheral nerves. Diabetic neuropathies cause numbing and tingling of the hands, arms, feet, and legs. It can also be the cause of foot ulcers.

Retinopathy: This is a degenerative disease of the nerves in the retina. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.

Blindness, kidney damage and amputations are very serious complications associated with diabetes and may be alleviated through proper education. A local nonprofit, Nutrition in Demand’s mission is to provide credible Nutrition Education to the public. We do this through these weekly articles and through various workshops.

We will be hosting a Diabetes education workshop on November 21st beginning at 6:00pm. For more information on the workshop, please contact me on the numbers below.

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

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

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

Tropical milkweed TROPICAL milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) is technically not a native to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Additional common names for this plant include tropical milkweed, scarlet milkweed, swallow wort, Indian root and matal.

Asklepios is the Greek god of healing.

Tropical milkweed is widely popular in butterfly gardens.

Growing as a naturalised perennial plant in the Islands, it can also be easily started from seeds.

A South American native, tropical milkweed grows 30 to 36 inches high, produces clusters of bright yellow or yellow-orange bi-coloured flowers and blooms over a wide range of months.

Flowers are followed by long, narrow seed pods (3 to 4 inches long) which split open when ripe releasing silky tailed seeds for dispersal by wind.

It grows best in light, rich, evenly moist, well-drained soil in full sun.

It tolerates some light shade and tolerates some soil dryness.

Many sources claim that tropical milkweed is the preferred milkweed for monarch caterpillars due to its tender leaves.

Whether or not this is true, it is certain that tropical milkweed is a

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

popular as both a caterpillar food plant and butterfly nectar plant.

Hummingbirds and bees are also attracted to the flowers.

It comes with no serious insect or disease problems. It is somewhat weedy but not invasive and can spread where it will self-seed.

The one problem that plagues the appearance of tropical milkweed in the garden is aphids.

Aphid control on plants may be as simple as spraying the plants with a burst of water from the hose which will dislodge the aphids (and which will have to be repeated all the time).

Generally, aphid infestations are a bit unsightly but do not impair blooming or plant growth.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

A second problem that can impact the appearance of tropical milkweed is a result of the severe defoliation caused by monarch and/or queen caterpillars.

This problem of course has the trade-off of providing great caterpillar watching while helping to produce more butterflies.

Once the plants are defoliated or the caterpillars have moved on, it is a simple matter of cutting back the tropical milkweed, which will resprout from the plant's base.

Regrowth is fairly fast and the plant will re-bloom.

Milkweed can also be beneficial to nearby plants, repelling some pests, especially wireworms.

Milkweed also contains cardiac glycoside poisons which inhibit animal cells, as a result, many natives of South America and Africa used arrows poisoned with these glycosides to fight and hunt more effectively.

Milkweed also causes mild dermatitis in some who come in contact with it so consider wearing gloves when working with these plants.

By Audley Astwood, police public relations officer

Crime prevention tips

The Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) would like to remind the Turks & Caicos Islands (TCI) public to remain vigilant, alert and help us (RTCIPF) prevent and reduce crime in our community. Many crimes in the TCI are crimes of opportunity, and criminals often hit the easiest target. An example of a crime of opportunity is a Burglary of a Motor vehicle. A majority of these types of crimes reported indicate that the target vehicle was left unsecure.

And often times, valuable items are left inside the vehicle in plain view. The following tips are being provided as a public service, in our attempt to help the TCI public help us reduce crime in the TCI: Always make sure that all vehicle windows are closed

tightly, and all doors and hatches are locked / secured. Activate the alarm system if available.

Make sure that you have your vehicle / residence keys on your person or in a secure location (do not leave keys inside the vehicle) During the night-time hours, attempt to park the your vehicle in well-lighted areas Do not leave valuables in plain sight inside the vehicle.

Many people in the Providenciales area often leave passports, ID’s, and other personal identifiers inside their vehicle’s glove compartment for convenience. This is not a good idea. The thieves know this and target vehicles accordingly. Keep all identifying information on your person or in a secure location.

Criminals will often look for unsecured vehicles to burglarize or

steal and tend to hit easy marks or targets of opportunity.

In conclusion, RTCIPF encourages the TCI public to join us in our efforts to reduce crime and hold those responsible for crimes accountable. Anyone witnessing suspicious behavior should notify 911. The caller should provide as much detailed information as possible (description of suspects and vehicle, specific behavior, direction of travel, etc.) Persons can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously on either www. crimestoppers.tc or on Facebook as a fan of Crime Stoppers TCI. All tips are received in the USA. Please visit our web site at www.tcipolice.tc or www. facebook.com/RTCIPF for more information.

20 NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

One year in ... continued from 

The elegant event received much corporate and Government support

College foundation hosts successful fundraiser TURKS and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) Foundation held an elegant dinner at the Regent Palms on Friday, November 8, to raise money for the educational development of students.

The first major fundraiser since members regrouped aimed at racking up $20,000, an amount that was surpassed, said chair of the foundation and college board Claudette Munroe-Clare.

The classy event was well attended, receiving the support of many cooperate organisations and Government officials.

Among those in attendance were Premier Rufus Ewing, Governor Peter Beckingham, Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Community College president Lee Ingham and vicepresident Samuel Forbes.

During the evening there was an additional opportunity for attendees

to open up their wallets and pledge donations to full or partial scholars.

Munroe-Clare said that the board was very happy with the support received and was thankful for the scholarship assistance since “there are many deserving students who cannot afford to attend the college”.

Although the criteria for the scholarships have not been finalised, it was decided that partial and full scholarships will be offered to any eligible student, regardless of nationality.

Two of the known and most important requirements though, are good grades and legal status.

Throughout the evening many speeches were shared, all offering support for higher education and the betterment of the local college.

Other highlights of the night were performances from the TCI Youth

Chorale, Enid Capron Primary School students and Wesleyan Methodist.

Patron of the event and Minister of Education, Akierra Missick also shared her joy in seeing so many people in support of the college fundraiser.

“It’s great to see so many people here committed to the cause of raising funds so that we can assist some of the students who unfortunately are unable to afford paying for their tertiary education by themselves and weren’t recipients of a Government scholarship,” she said.

The foundation was initially formed in 2002 and re-launched in 2011 but has not been consistently active.

The team now intends to ask the community to help them to provide more quality tertiary education in the TCI.

10

industry.

The Government has suggested several amendments to the National Parks Ordinance, subject to public consultation, that will seek to increase the amount of land under the protection of the park system.

It will also seek to make provisions for the removal of specific areas of land from the National Park System and also for eco-friendly development in the national parks to facilitate ecotourism.

Provisions will also be made for the incorporation of beach accesses into the National Parks Ordinance and also for the incorporation of community parks.

He added that the Government hopes to maximise on revenue raised from visits to heritage sites and other natural attractions as part of its promotion of heritage based tourism.

And it will continue to push for the re-instatement of the conservation fund to assist with environmental protection efforts and projects.

LAND, WATER AND ENERGY The Government has begun the process of reviewing the Crown land policy and legislation in order to make amendments for fair distribution of affordable land, the Premier told the House of Assembly.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Environment is currently conducting a review of the building code and a planned revision of the Physical Planning Ordinance will ensure that there is orderly and approved development throughout the TCI. The Government has also set about modernising the water generation and distribution

systems throughout the Islands.

As a result the generation component of the water project on Grand Turk has been completed and the replacement of the metering system will soon be installed.

Construction works and installation of the Salt Cay Plant will commence shortly, Ewing said.

Initiatives will also continue on South, North and Middle Caicos with the intention of creating a National Water Corporation.

The Premier added that a number of initiatives are being incorporated into a new energy policy to help reduce the cost of electricity including provisions for alternative energy sources.

“The reduction in the cost of energy will make significant contributions to the lowering of the cost of living and increasing the disposable income of residents and general increase in economic growth,” he said.

The Premier thanked all those working within the Government who continue to push for progress in the TCI, God for his goodness and mercies, the constituents, PNP party and his House colleagues.

Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson told the Weekly News on Tuesday (November 12) that the one year anniversary had passed extremely quietly.

“The quiet passage of the Government's first year anniversary demonstrates that they too are not proud of their performance for this year.

“The people will be the judge.”

The Opposition will speak further on the Premier’s address at a press conference at its party's headquarters in Providenciales on Monday (November 18) at 10am.

Wrestling theme for domino contest The annual Islandcom Domino Tournament has become a staple of the local community.

Men and women around the islands practice their domino skills year round to better their chances at winning the grand prize.

Each year the event takes place on four of the main islands; Providenciales, South Caicos, North Caicos, and Grand Turk.

It’s a competition of bragging rights for the best domino player in the Turks and Caicos Islands!

Teams of two sign up to compete against one another in knock out rounds of domino playing.

The team that wins the best out of six games advances to the next round to win the local pot and a spot in the finals.

In the finals, the winning team from each island competes for the grand prize of bigger cash and phone

service.

This year’s tournament is cosponsored by the Wine Cellar.

Islandcom has changed things up this year; the final games will take place at this year’s annual Conch Fest in Blue Hills, Providenciales.

“The theme for this year is the Conch Fest Show Down. The games are always a wrestling match between different teams and spectators.

So why not host the event on an actual wrestling pit?!” says Chandra Craigg, Islandcom Marketing.

This year’s event will feature a WWE style wrestling pit for the championship round.

Those competing in the tournament will work towards the grand prize of $1,000, cellphone service for a year, and a custom made wrestling belt, courtesy of Islandcom and the Wine Cellar. Winning teams from each island will win up to $500,

cellphone service, and an all expense paid trip to Provo for the finals.

This year’s finals will be held at the 10th Annual Conch Fest in Blue Hills.

“This is our 3rd year as a sponsor for this event. We wanted to put a little bit more of the Islandcom flavor to the event so we decided to combine our Domino Tournament with our annual appearance at the Conch Fest,” says Lee Ingham, Islandcom Marketing. “This will surely be an awesome finale this year!”

The 2013 Domino Tournament will kick off Saturday November 23rd. There will be a simultaneous qualifying match played in North Caicos, South Caicos, and Grand Turk. The Provo qualifying match will be played Friday November 29th at Three Queens- the site for the annual Conch Fest. Anyone interested in competing can register at any local Islandcom store.

Registration fee is $20 per team.

The game of dominoes is a time old tradition created by the Chinese.

The goal of dominoes is to play all the cards in your hand before your opponents. Each game consists of 4 opponents. They are given 7 cards to start the game. Each card must match the number of dots on either end of the game board when played. The game can become very intense as each player reads the board to decipher the next movements of his opponent.

This is a game of concentration and strategizing; with a twist of skill in foretelling the next player’s moves.

In championship games of dominoes the rules are tougher and the penalties are harsher. Teammates and opponents aren’t allowed to talk while playing the game. Playing before your time can cause you points and signaling of any kind can get you disqualified. The Islandcom Domino Tournament will follow suit

making sure that rules will be strictly adhered to by all players. In each game there will be a referee for each table. The refs will monitor the plays and behavior of each player to ensure that everyone is abiding by the rules.

Disputes will be settled by the head referee on each island.

Last year’s Domino Tournament finals saw an astonishing upsetting win in the semi finals of North Caicos versus the ever so talented team of Provo’s The Undefeatables.

The Undeafeatbles were two time Domino Champions but had their crown stolen from them by the North Caicos Team of Higgs and Higgs.

Higgs and Higgs went on to win the Championship title over the South Caicos team of SPT. Who will be the champions of this year’s domino tournament? Will Higgs and Higgs defend their title or will you be the new winner?

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Crimestoppers TCI president Ian McLeod is flanked by Detective George Denbow (right) and Crimestoppers Miami director Richard Masten (left)

NEWS 21

Attendees enjoy a fun night of dancing and mingling while raising funds for the organisation

Crimestoppers’ fundraiser gets pleasing community support A CHIC cocktail party on Saturday (November 9) marked Crimestoppers’ annual fundraiser, an event aimed at raising cash for tip rewards and other crime prevention activities.

Held at Opus, Ocean Club in Providenciales under the theme Let’s Dance, the party saw excellent community support, with dignitaries including the Governor, Premier, Deputy Premier and Leader of the Opposition.

This year’s event is estimated to have raised more than $20,000 for the organisation.

Pleased with support of the community year after year, Crimestoppers president Ian McLeod said the fundraiser is “primarily to

get money from which we can pay rewards, provided that the tip leads to someone being arrested and charged or some people being arrested and charged.”

However, one of the major challenges faced in TCI is somewhat a “culture of anti-snitching”, he said.

Acknowledging that it is a small community and people are fearful of retribution, he reassured the public that the organisation makes it easy for people to give tips and remain totally anonymous.

Tips by telephone to 1-8008477 is answered in Miami and tips through the Crimestoppers website at www.crimestoppers.tc gets encrypted and sent to a team in Miami who then send them to the

police in Providenciales.

“No one here knows who gave the tip but if it does lead to an arrest and charge we use the money to pay out rewards,” he stressed.

Upon providing a tip, people are given a secret identity so that they can follow up anonymously and also collect their rewards anonymously.

Another venture recently funded by the organisation is the training of two officers in an international educational programme, DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education).

Having completed the training, the officers are now in schools and the community assisting with drugs, addiction and violence.

McLeod said he recognises that there are challenges to work with

and although the Government is doing its part with the budget it has, Crimestoppers provides assistance however it can.

Visiting from Miami were Crimestoppers representatives who came to reassure the public that they do indeed take the tips anonymously.

Miami-Dade Detective George Denbow guaranteed the public that the tips are confidentially taken in Miami and he is one of the officers who do so.

Denbow urged the public not to hesitate in calling since they can help to reduce the number of crimes in the community.

Executive director of Crimestoppers Miami Florida Keys, Richard Masten said they oversee

taking calls from the TCI as well as from several other Caribbean islands.

He said he knows there is always the fear that someone on the island can recognise a caller’s voice but callers need not worry about that because calls are never answered in the TCI. Masten commended the TCI Crimestoppers for being the “most vibrant Crimestoppers in the Caribbean” and the community for being so supportive in what he thought was an extraordinary turnout to the fundraiser.

The event brought attendees together in an exciting evening with a dance competition, Texas Hold Em Poker tournament and auctions.

(KH)

Art auction raises funds for youth centre SEVERAL exceptional pieces of art by local artists and other goodies were auctioned off to help raise funds for the Edward Gartland Youth Centre on Saturday (November 9).

The live auction was held at the Amanyara Resort on Providenciales and it marked the centre’s fifth anniversary.

Director of the youth centre, Roxann Wake-Forbes thanked the many sponsors who made the event possible, and the artists who put up pieces of their work for auction.

“To the artists, we are extremely happy and grateful for them, not only for producing their art pieces, but… thirty per cent of anything they sold goes to the youth centre and then the auction piece that each artist put up, 100 per cent of the proceeds goes to us at the centre.

“So we are thankful, very

thankful,” Wake-Forbes said after the auction.

Programmes offered by the centre include daily tutoring, martial arts, dancing, drama and several other instructive courses.

“The money raised here will go towards these programmes and providing more opportunities for the young people to become more engaged in different activities,” the director said.

She stated that the centre is happy with any amount of money it receives.

“We are just happy to get some money because everything at the centre is free of charge, and as long as you are between 12 and 18 you can come to the centre.”

Main sponsors for event were Amanyara, TCI Sotheby’s Realty and Gilley’s Enterprises.

“Those were our three main sponsors but we received tremendous support from the rest of the community and our artists of course, we couldn’t have done it without them,” Wake-Forbes said.

The artists whose work were featured at the event included Charrish Ferguson, Jennifer Rhodes, Sara Alex Skye, Steve Padmore, Stacie, Lucie WintonStubbs, Dwight Outten, Chel Beeson, Latrice Jackson, Benada Oduma, Brenda Ludington, Heather Simpson-Forbes, Moira and Susan Kellof.

The art pieces auctioned went for as low as $120, to more than $300.

An exceptional bracelet by Paulette Joel, representing Susan Kellof Designs, saw stiff bidding among a number of the attendees.

The jewellery was eventually sold

Art work done by the children at the youth centre auctioned off for $130

for $375, one of the highest sale prices.

Several pieces of outstanding art from the students at the youth centre were auctioned off.

Attendees were also invited to bid for a tour of Sotheby’s in New York, gift certificates for a massage and

facial at Regent Palms and a pricey bottle of wine.

An opportunity to spend two nights at Parrot Cay was auctioned off for $1,000, the highest bid.

John Morley of Sailrock Development Ltd performed as the auctioneer for the evening. (DI)

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Guyanese man goes berserk, kills four in shootout – Two policemen among victims

The death toll stood at five at the end of an almost three-hour gun battle between police and a berserk miner in a usually busy section of the Georgetown, Guyana on Tuesday.

From 13:30 hours to about 16:00 hours, the scene at the junction of Middle and East Streets resembled that of some parts of the Middle East as battle-ready cops with highpowered weapons surrounded a house in which the man had secured himself and traded bullets with him.

In the ensuing shootout, Police Lance Corporal 20293 Michael Forde of Dennis Street, Sophia and Constable 18053 Sherwayne Pantlitz were shot dead by the businessman, Deryck Kanhai, who was eventually taken out.

This was after Kanhai had killed 38-year-old mother of three, Vanessa Vyphuis, of North Ruimveldt, a dispatcher at Crown Cabs Taxi Service, which is headquartered in the bottom flat of his house on Middle Street, and 75-year-old security guard Hugh Paul popularly known as Bonny.

Kanhai had also wounded a taxi driver attached to the service in a fit of rage that reportedly stemmed from his anger as a result of his 25-yearold lover walking out on him a week

A law enforcement officer breaks down into tears for his slain colleagues. (Guyana Chronicle photo)

ago.

Police in a press release said that at about 13:30h, ranks responded to a report received that a man armed with a firearm was discharging rounds indiscriminately at Middle and East Streets, Georgetown.

The police said that on arrival at the scene, the ranks found the bodies of Vanessa Williams, also known as Vanessa Vyphuis, and another man who was later identified as 75-year old Hugh Paul lying on Middle Street.

Enquiries also revealed that the alleged shooter, who was identified as a miner and licenced firearm holder Deryck Kanhai, and who had apparently gone berserk, had retreated into his home above the taxi service.

“A standoff ensued between the police ranks and Deryck Kanhai

as efforts were made to arrest him, during which there was exchange of gunfire and the use of tear smoke was also employed by the police.

During this period Police Lance Corporal 20293 Forde and Constable 18053 Pantlitz, 36, of Parfait Harmonie, West Coast Demerara, were shot and killed by Deryck Kanhai.

The police subsequently stormed the building and came under fire from Kanhai. The ranks returned fire and he was fatally shot.

A shotgun, a .32 pistol and a .22 pistol have been recovered by the police.

An eyewitness to the incident said that Kanhai, who he claimed is a heavy user of cocaine, was in the habit of brandishing his gun in public and even threatening the drivers at the taxi service.

November 16 - 22, 2013

Greater Caribbean establishes first “Sustainable Tourism Zone” THE greater Caribbean region is now the world’s first-ever “Sustainable Tourism Zone,” following ratification by member states of the Association of Caribbean States.

The convention creating the Sustainable Tourism Zone officially entered into force on Nov. 6; it has been a major priority of the ACS, a regional political grouping.

“Protecting and guaranteeing tourism as a long-term activity was the main consideration in seeking to establish the Caribbean region as a Sustainable Tourism Zone,” the ACS said in a statement.

The grouping called the zone a “geographically determined cultural, socioeconomic and biologically rich and

diverse unit, in which tourism development will depend on the sustainability and the principles of integration, cooperation and consensus, aimed at facilitating the integrated development of the Greater Caribbean.”

The ACS also said the establishment of the “Sustainable Tourism Zone of the Greater Caribbean” would help “position the region as a leader in the new era of responsible tourism.”

The ACS will soon begin a process to select and evaluate destinations for inclusion in the STZC, using “Regional Sustainable Tourism Indicators” to harmonise the criteria.

The convention establishing the zone was first signed by heads of states and governments of the ACS in 2001. (Caribjournal)

Dino Bouterse had already been charged with trying to smuggle cocaine and weapons into the United States.

Holness forms shadow government Suriname president’s son after leadership victory FOLLOWING his victory in the JLP leadership election on Sunday, Jamaican Opposition Leader Andrew Holness appointed a new Shadow Cabinet.

The move came after the entire shadow cabinet tendered its resignation on Monday evening.

In a release, the party said the move was aimed at giving Holness “a free hand to assemble his team.”

Audley Shaw, who lost his bid for the party leadership, held on as the opposition spokesman on finance and planning. Shaw has not yet accepted the post.

The move included former Jamaican Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett’s shadow portfolio was shifted from tourism to foreign affairs and foreign trade. Bartlett said Tuesday he would decline the appointment.

The Cabinet does not include former Foreign Affairs spokesman Dr Christopher Tufton, a supporter of Shaw’s bid.

on US terror charges

Andrew Holness address his supporters following his victory.

Holness won the majority of supporters last Sunday at the JPL elections. He defeated former Finance Minister Audley Shaw after weeks of heated campaigning.

“Thank you to all the Delegates who came out today,” Holness wrote on his Facebook page. “The

real work begins now. Let us join together to build a great JLP. We are all Labourites.”

Holness won the election with more than 2,700 votes to just over 2,000 for Shaw, meaning he remains the head of Jamaica’s Opposition in Parliament. (CaribJournal)

THE son of Suriname’s president has been charged by the United States with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organisation.

Dino Bouterse was allegedly paid millions of dollars to provide a base and weapons for Hezbollah fighters.

The Shia militants were planning attacks on the US and the Netherlands, Suriname’s former colonial ruler, US prosecutors say.

The son of President Desi Bouterse was extradited from Panama in August.

He had already been charged with trying to smuggle cocaine and weapons into the United States.

Mr Bouterse could be sentenced to life in jail for the drugs and weapons smuggling charges and to up to 15 years for the terrorismrelated accusations.

The Suriname president’s son insists he is innocent, but his lawyers have not yet reacted to the latest charges.

The US authorities say they have recorded meetings of Mr Bouterse with undercover agents and informants posing as Hezbollah operatives in Panama and in Greece.

“Alleged criminals like Bouterse and his facilitators pose a direct threat to the safety and security of the United States,” the administrator of the US Drug Enforcement Administration, Michelle Leonhart, told the Associated Press news agency.

At a meeting in Greece, Mr Bouterse reportedly accepted $2 million (£1.25m) to help Hezbollah fighters settle in Suriname, give them passports and arm them with surfaceto-air missiles and other weapons.

He reportedly told them he would present within two months a list of the weapons he could provide.

Mr Bouterse was arrested in Panama in late August, while travelling on a diplomatic passport, and quickly handed over to the US authorities.

November 16 - 22, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 29

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The Sands is now accepting applications/résumé for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply:

MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY & SKILLED POSITIONS VICE PRESIDENT OF RESORT ASSETS Responsibilities: • Oversees all resort/hotel operations for multiple brands, properties and companies, budgeting, hotel sales and marketing, quality assurance, business and development initiatives, profitability, asset management and controls, and general performance for the group • Ensures management, marketing and financial strategies and procedures are consistent with and achieve company, management and group goals • Assists with, develops and implements group business and development plans for multiple brands • Provides strategic direction and management of group interests, long range planning and new business development • Consistently delivers accurate forecasting projections for areas of responsibility and implements with effective adjustments as required to ensure profit integrity Requirements: • University degree in business administration or related discipline • Proven track record of managing and overseeing existing resort and property development group • Excellent leadership and public speaking skills • Must have at least 8 years in Condo Resort Management in the capacity of General Manager • Must have at least 5 years Resort Asset Management experience • Strong strategy and analytic abilities with capacity to conceptualize, design and implement initiatives • Ability to motivate management team and others to meet and exceed company goals

REVENUE MANAGER Responsibilities: • Maximizes revenue through developing rate strategy, integrity and inventory controls (yield management) • Ensure room rates, allotments and allocations are set up and recorded properly • Monitors rate transparency, integrity and availability throughout all distribution channels • Develops and maintains internal and external revenue platforms for reporting systems • Develops and maintains records for accurate forecasts, pace reports and revenue based budgets for multi-faceted company • Creates and provides analytical data records • Creates and upload promotions on company websites, conducts consistent price comparisons of competitive sets and makes recommendations • Drives new revenue streams across multiple platforms • Defines optimal room allocation and rate strategies to maximize revenue contribution based on intelligent recommendations • Tracks and evaluates room sales and customer behavior with advanced, centralized reporting providing a 360° view of crosscompany activity • Respond quickly to changes in the market, monitors the macro and micro environment • Monitors, updates and resolves Extranet discrepancies daily • Performs training for the Reservations Team and cross training with the Front Office • Analyzes current and historical data to identify business trends • Work directly with guests and staff to ensure customer service levels are of the utmost priority • Performs MOD shifts as required • Participates in Sales Meetings, Familiarization Tours, Site Inspections, Revenue meetings and appointments, Trade Shows, Marketing and PR Functions as requested by the General Manager

Requirements: • 5 to 7 years of reservations manager or assistant revenue manager experience • Must have high mathematically skills, strong set of analytical skills in both inductive and deductive plus working knowledge and ability to create and maintain spreadsheet solutions • Compiles and provides combined Internet room selling channel analysis, growth and demand.

• Analyzes, distributes and make recommendations on Star Market Reports for revenue strategy meetings.

• Reviews market and industry trends and makes recommendations • Must have direct knowledge of competitive set to evaluate business needs and future growth • Must have at least 5 years of Condo Resort experience • Bachelors Degree in Business Administration or Hospitality Management

HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR Responsibilities: • Ensures maximum compliance and efficiency in the performance of Housekeeping staff in guest rooms and surrounding areas • Carries out the policies and procedures of Housekeeping Departments Standard Operating • Offers assistance to guests and owners, initiates corrective action on complaints of cleanliness and service to guest rooms • Assists in and conducts monthly Housekeeping Inventories as required • Conducts routine guest room and common area inspections.

Provides inspections scores and retrains for success • Assists in and conducts staff scheduling and annual performance evaluations • Maintains inventory and stock controls • Ensure delivery of service excellence to all guests by monitoring staff performance and provides hands-on training and development • Evaluates and updates Executive Housekeeper on staff performance. Makes recommendations for appropriate action in the areas of disciplinary and commendation • Maintains quality controls and assurance • Assists in overseeing Laundry Department as required in service, quality, inventory, inspection, scheduling and overall performance Requirements: • High school diploma • Must have supervised a minimum of 15 employees • Most work tasks are performed indoors and outdoors.

Temperature is moderate and controlled by hotel environmental systems • Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 3 hours in length • Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis • Must be able to push and pull carts and equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis • Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space • Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks • Must have minimum of 3 years supervisory experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry • Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language (s) used in the workplace • Must be able to read and write to facilitate the communication process • Requires excellent communication and grammar skills, both orally and written to communicate well to guests and owners • Must possess basic math and computational ability • Must have basic computer skills in Hotel PMS, Word, Excel and Outlook

• Must work weekends and holidays

LINE POSITIONS

POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT Responsibilities: • Greets all guests and assist with providing towels, chairs, umbrellas, questions, and/or water sports equipment • Completes set-up and break-down of all Pool & Beach guest lounge areas in accordance to Pool & Beach Standard Operating Procedures as required • Ensure that all pool chairs and tables are in a clean and orderly fashion • Consistently conducts walk-throughs of all pool areas and beach to ensure free and clear of debris, clean (no trash on the grounds) and tidiness • Inspects all pools areas replacing any missing items and/or damaged items needing attention. (I.E. Umbrellas, Hobie Cat, Chairs, etc.) and makes repairs to them as needed • Immediately reports defects and deficiencies to management • Required Pool & Hot Tub cleaning (I.E. vacuuming, filtering, scrubbing, sifting, chemical testing, checking skimmers, etc.)

• Monitors and provides pool maintenance and chemicals as required • Provides basic life-saving • Evaluates and monitors ocean conditions and updates ocean flag accordingly • Provides sailing, kayak, paddle board and wind-surfing lessons as required and designated by management • Assists in monthly inventory process • Monitors beach non-motorized activities, pool and beach guest safety and ensures the adherence of hotel’s No Solicitation policy

Requirements: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A secondary diploma is an asset Life Guard experience a plus Previous Pool & Beach Attendant experience preferred Must be able to work long hours in all weather conditions Must be CPR, First Aid and AED certified Must be a strong swimmer and perform rescues as needed Must be able to operate rescue boat as required by law (licensing required) Must be experienced and provide lessons in: sailing, kayaking, paddle board and wind-surfing Must be able to operate all Pool & Beach equipment Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for long periods Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis Must be able to push and pull carts and equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks Must handle pool chemicals and equipment maintenance and functions. Must be able to maintain Ph balance, clean and chlorinate pools Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) (English) used in the workplace Must work weekends and holidays

HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT HOUSEMAN LABOURER GROUNDSMEN

For the above line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Minimum experience in the areas of interest required. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager, Sheena Smith at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or e-mail: humanresource@thesandstc.com, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Deadline is November 6, 2013.

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World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

Typhoon Haiyan:

Cameron promises Sri Lanka ‘tough message’ on alleged war crimes

– US aircraft carrier arrives in Philippines

DAVID Cameron has promised to send a “tough message” to Sri Lanka’s government over alleged war crimes after it warned him not to question ministers at the Commonwealth summit.

The UK prime minister, who has rejected calls to boycott the meeting in Colombo, said there had to be “proper inquiries” into events in 2009.

But Sri Lanka’s government said he had no right to bring up the subject, as he had not been invited on that basis.

Mr Cameron was scheduled to arrive on Thursday.

His attendance at the biennial Commonwealth heads of government conference follows talks with his Indian counterpart, Manmohan Singh, who is among those avoiding the event.

Mr Singh is joined by the prime ministers of Canada and Mauritius, who are staying away in protest over allegations that the regime of Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaska carried out war crimes at the end of a civil war with Tamil separatists four years ago.

The UN estimates that 40,000 civilians were killed in the last five months of the 26-year conflict, but the Sri Lankan authorities deny responsibility.

Tamil representatives and Labour, the British opposition party, urged Mr Cameron to join the boycott, but he argued he could achieve more by using his attendance to “shine a spotlight” on “some of the human

11 million affected, thousands dead US aircraft carrier and its escort of two cruisers have arrived off the Philippines coast to help communities devastated by Typhoon Haiyan.

The top US commander in the Philippines told the BBC that US military support would be on an unprecedented scale.

Officials have begun burying some typhoon victims in mass graves. The confirmed death toll stands at more than 2,300 but is likely to rise.

The UN says some 11 million people have been affected by the typhoon.

HELICOPTERS With images of the suffering flashed around the world, a huge international aid effort has swung into operation.

Philippine Health Minister Enrique Ona told the BBC that international criticism of the government’s relief efforts was “unkind”.

He said the final death toll was likely to be “significantly lower” than an early estimate of 10,000, but warned that it was unlikely all victims would be identified.

The USS George Washington, carrying 5,000 crew and moored off

Neighbourhoods have been levelled by the typhoon, and food and water supplies are scarce.

the east of Samar island, will expand search-and-rescue operations and provide a platform for helicopters to move supplies, the White House said.

Two US destroyers are already in the Philippines and other US vessels are expected to arrive in about a week, the US Navy said.

Pallets loaded with food and water have been taken from the aircraft carrier to Tacloban, capital of Leyte province, and Guiuan, which was also devastated by the typhoon, on Samar’s east coasts.

French aid charity MSF described the situation in Guiuan, with a population of 45,000, as bleak.

“The village has been flattened,” said assessment team leader Alexis Moens.

“Houses, medical facilities, rice

fields, fishing boats all destroyed.

People are living out in the open; there are no roofs left standing in the whole of Guiuan. The needs are immense and there are a lot of surrounding villages that are not yet covered by any aid organisations.”

US Marine Brigadier General Paul Kennedy told BBC Radio 5 live that the US aid effort was being stepped up to a level that has “probably never been applied” to a humanitarian crisis.

He said the arrival of the USS George Washington would triple the number of available helicopters, which can also deliver hundreds of thousands of gallons of water every day.

Other countries have also pledged help in the shape of financial aid, relief supplies or emergency teams.

Brazil ex-President Joao Goulart to be exhumed THE remains of a former president of Brazil, Joao Goulart, will be exhumed on Wednesday to establish whether he died of natural causes or was poisoned.

Mr Goulart, widely known as Jango, died in 1976 in exile in Argentina. His cause of death was deemed to have been a heart attack.

But a former Uruguayan intelligence officer has said Mr Goulart was poisoned by agents working for the region’s military governments.

He governed from 1961 to 1964.

Forensic scientists commenced work on Wednesday morning, digging a hole in the grave to create an escape for gases which had formed inside the tomb.

Mr Goulart, a progressive leader with left-wing sympathies during the height of the Cold War, was deposed in the 1964 military coup.

He fled first to Uruguay, where he settled as a farmer, and in 1973

The former president was believed to have died from a heart attack, but new information reveals that he might have been murdered.

to Argentina on the invitation of its president, Juan Peron.

Mr Goulart was found dead on 6 December 1976 in the Argentine

city of Mercedes, nine months after a military junta had overthrown the government of Juan Peron’s widow, Isabel Peron.

Officials at the time said he had died of a heart attack, but no post mortem examination was carried out by the authorities in either Argentina or Brazil, where he was taken for burial.

Doubts about his death resurfaced five years ago when a former Uruguayan intelligence officer serving a sentence for drug smuggling in Brazil alleged Mr Goulart was poisoned by Uruguayan agents at the request of Brazilian military rulers.

The intelligence officer, Mario Neira, said the alleged murder was part of Operation Condor, a plan under which the military governments of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay collaborated to eliminate their political opponents in the 1970s and 80s.

The UK PM said that there needs to be “proper inquires” into the alleged war crimes of 2009.

rights issues”.

But the Sri Lankans reacted angrily to that suggestion.

“The invitation to Prime Minister David Cameron was not based on that,” minister of mass media and communications Keheliya Rambukwella told the BBC. “We are a sovereign nation. You think someone can just make a demand from Sri Lanka?

“We are not a colony. We are an independent state.”

Asked about the comments, Mr Cameron maintained he was right to raise questions, adding: “That’s exactly what I’ll be doing.”

In a subsequent interview, he added: “There need to be proper inquiries into what happened at the end of the war, there need to be proper human rights and democracy for the Tamil minority. These things need to be properly looked at.”

US bloody pit bull attack: ‘He’s mauling me!’ Owner loses one arm, part of other BLOOD covered a driveway in a rural Connecticut home after a woman was attacked by her pit bull Monday morning.

“A dog is in the road and a woman is screaming for help,” a passerby told Wilton Conn. police in a 911 call. “They’re screaming for help, saying ‘help me, help me, he’s mauling me.”

Anne Murray, 65, lost an arm and partially lost another after her 2-year-old pit bull Tuxedo attacked her at her home, police Lt. Donald Wakeman told The News.

She also suffered wounds across her entire body. She was taken to a local hospital where she was listed in stable condition Tuesday, Wakeman said. An update was not available Wednesday, he said.

“She’s better — she’s awake now,” Her son Matthew Murray told ctpost.com. “I don’t really

know what happened. I just want to stay with her and get her to a full recovery.”

Murray was attacked in her driveway as police came at 11:30 that morning, Wakeman said. She hid underneath a vehicle and an officer shot and killed the dog, he said.

The dog will be tested for rabies, Wakeman said.

The driveway at the home was covered with blood — and blood soaked Tuxedo’s dog collar, according to FOX CT. The family could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

Police had responded to the area of the family’s home twice during the summer for people complaining the dog had wandered away from the property, Wakeman said. But in neither case did Tuxedo attack anyone, he said. (Nydailynews.com)

November 16 - 22, 2013

World News US healthcare enrolment figures lower than expected THE Obama administration has said barely 27,000 Americans enrolled for health insurance through its troubled federal website in the first month.

About 106,000 people were insured in total, most of them through the staterun websites.

The administration originally estimated nearly half a million people would sign up in the first month.

The federal website, used in 36 US states, has suffered severe technical problems since its 1 October rollout.

The administration has pledged that the portal will be “running smoothly” for a “vast majority” of users by the end of November.

Wednesday’s figures from the US health department also showed nearly 400,000 Americans had qualified for Medicaid, a government health programme for the poor that was expanded by the healthcare law.

About 40% of people in this category were said to have come through the federal website.

Nearly one million people, meanwhile, had

managed to check via the website if they were eligible for government subsidies towards the insurance, but had not selected a plan, according to the administration.

A health department spokeswoman, Julie Bataille, said the agency would send emails to 275,000 people who were unable to complete their applications in the first month of the website, inviting them to try again.

The White House’s chief technology officer told legislators on Wednesday that the system’s response times have improved.

But there is a long way to go - health insurance enrolment as of 2 November was only about 1.5% of the seven million people the Obama administration has projected will sign up by the end of March.

The difficult launch of the website has provided Republicans with plenty of ammunition against the law, which they tried to delay or defund through a partial government shutdown last month.

Florida woman married to Ferris wheellike ride she has loved for decades LINDA Ducharme — who has previously had intimate relationships with an airplane and a train — married the hunky piece of steel she named Bruce last year. She renewed vows with the Skydiver, which is similar to a Ferris wheel, in Florida — a state that currently prohibits same-sex humans from getting married.

This relationship has had its ups and downs.

A Florida woman is married to an amusement park ride she named Bruce — and Linda Ducharme even married the hunky piece of steel last year.

Ducharme renewed vows with the Skydiver, a Ferris wheellike ride, earlier this year — in Florida, a state that currently prohibits same-sex human beings from getting hitched.

“I tie you, flesh to steel,” a non-denominational preacher said during the renewal ceremony on a Logo TV programme.

Ducharme recounted her longtime relationship with the ride on the TV channel’s “What!?: Animism” show, which follows several people who consider objects lovers, a condition called objectum sexuality.

Pink Star diamond fetches record $83m at auction A DIAMOND known as the Pink Star has sold for $83m (£52m) at auction in Geneva a record price for a gemstone.

The diamond measures 2.69cm by 2.06cm (1.06 inches by 0.81 inches) and is set on a ring.

The Pink Star was sold to Isaac Wolf, a well-known New York diamond cutter who has renamed it the Pink Dream.

The winning bid surpasses the $46.2m paid for the Graff Pink diamond three years ago, which was half the size of the Pink Star.

The $83m includes Sotheby’s commission.

The winning bid was for 68m Swiss francs ($74m) and reports say there was a long silence between that offer and the previous telephone bid of 67m Swiss francs.

“Ladies and gentlemen, 68 million is the world record bid for a diamond ever bid and it’s right here,” Sotheby’s David Bennett said as he brought

The diamond’s name has been changed to Pink Dream

down the hammer.

Sotheby’s played the theme tune from the “Pink Panther” movie after the winning bid was confirmed.

According to the auctioneer, the Pink Star was mined by De Beers in Africa in 1999, but it did not say which country.

“It’s really extraordinarily rare,” said Mr Bennett.

“Very, very few of these stones have ever appeared at auction.”

It took two years to cut and

31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

polish the diamond, which was 132.5 carat in its rough state.

In its finished condition the Pink Star is 59.60 carat, more than double the size of the next biggest diamond in its class.

A carat is a weight measurement used for gemstones and is 0.2g (0.00705 ounces).

Sotheby’s has sold almost $200m worth of jewellery in its current auction, a record for a single auction according to the company. (BBC)

“I got this weird feeling I can’t explain,” Ducharme said of first meeting the ride at a carnival in 1982. “My heart was pounding as we went up the platform and got on the ride. I felt like I was being taken by this ride.”

Ducharme already knew she had a proclivity for objects.

She’d previously fallen in love with an airplane when she was a pilot and was involved in an intimate relationship with a train.

Ducharme even became a conductor to get closer to the locomotive.

“I was seen in a romantic embrace with a train and subsequently, I was fired,” she said on the TV programme.

Her love of objects did not sit well with her family.

“My mother’s reaction was completely off the wall; she was a very religious person,” Ducharme explained. “To her,

Ducharme says her heart was pounding when she first went on Bruce’s platform and got on the ride.

I was an abomination to god and she wanted to change that … she really thought I was demon possessed.”

When Ducharme first met Bruce in 1982, she ran away and joined the carnival so she could be close to the ride. She’d cuddle with it at night when the midway was deserted, Ducharme recounted.

But a storm in 1986 knocked the ride out of commission,

forcing it to Wichita, Kansas, for repairs.

“I was completely alone,” said Ducharme. “I felt that I was dying from the inside. I was very, very lonely.”

Sinking into depression, Ducharme was buoyed 25 years later when a friend tracked down Bruce, rusting away in a scrap yard some 3,000 miles away. She jumped in the car to see her long-lost lover.

32

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brama Kumaris

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

Raja Yoga

November 16 - 22, 2013

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

GRACEBAY SUITES

Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands BWI

Is looking for

Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

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

FOR SALE

Cleaners/ Maids For upcoming season.

Bring resume.

Belongers only.

9068

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

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SALE!!!

FLOWER GIRL TEDDYS, ROSES, BASKETS Sale on wedding favors, nick naks, pillows, knives etc.

25%–35% OFF CONTACT: 649-946-4894

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

CLASSIFIEDS 33

POSITION AVALIABLE Domestic Worker

Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply: Applicants must have previous experience as a domestic work and cook. Must be comfortable and experienced around the care and walking of larger breed dogs and be willing to work 6 days a week including holidays and weekends. Hours will need to be flexible in order to flex for evening service when required. Nutritional food experience also an asset. Must have a willing, positive and personable attitude.

Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply. Strong previous references and background check mandatory.

Please e-mail your resume to turksdomesticworker@ yahoo.com. Deadline is November 30, 2013.

9454

BAYVIEW MOTORS EXPERIENCED AUTOMOTIVE PAINTER/ REFINISHER

• Must have own tools • Must be very proficient in base/clear paint application and technologies • Must have excellent communication skills and work habits • Must have a strong sense of teamwork • Must have a minimum of 5 years experience • Must have a Journeyman’s Certificate Salary commensurate with experience and demonstrated ability

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN

• Must have own tools • Must have a very proficient diagnostic abilities in all automotive areas ( electrical, a/c, drive ability, transmission etc.)

• Must be familiar with both OE and Generic Diagnostic Tools • Must have a minimum of 5 years progressive experience • Must have excellent communication skill and work habits • Salary commensurate with experience and demonstrated ability

Please email all application to: syrmondg@bayviewmotors.com

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

9453

November 16 - 22, 2013

34 CLASSIFIEDS

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NAIL TECHNICIAN WANTED

NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BOARD

VACANCY FOR THE POSITION OF CERTIFIED MEDICAL CODER - PROVIDENCIALES

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour send resumes to info@ misickstanbrook.tc

9386

To perform highly technical and specialized coding functions for the Claims Department, Health Insurance Board. The employee reviews, analyzes, and codes diagnostic and procedural information that determines payments. The primary function of this position is to perform ICD9-CM, CPT and HCPCS coding for payments for medical services. The coding function is a primary source for data and information used in health care, and promotes provider/patient continuity, accurate database information. The coding function also ensures compliance with established universal coding guidelines.

A CPC is specifically qualified to do this thereby ensuring the institution has accurate information in a format that can be used for monitoring and planning.

Duties and Responsibilities: • To assign and sequences ICD-9-CM/CPT/HCPCS codes to diagnoses and procedures for documented information. Assures the final diagnoses and operative procedures as stated by the physician are valid and complete.

Abstracts all necessary information from health records to identify secondary complications and co-morbid conditions.

• Abstracts all necessary information and assigns codes (ICD-9, CPT & HCPCS), which most accurately describe each documented diagnosis, surgical procedure and special therapy or procedure according to established guidelines.

• To determines the final diagnoses and procedures stated by the physician or other health care providers are valid and complete.

• To performs a comprehensive review for the record to assure the presence of all component parts such as: patient and record identification, signatures and dates where required and other necessary data in the presence of all reports which appear to be indicated by the nature of the treatment rendered.

• To evaluates the record for documentation consistency and adequacy. CPC ensures that the final diagnosis accurately reflects the care and treatment rendered. Reviews the records for compliance with established TPAs when submitted.

• Establishes and maintains a log for claims process, by assigning batch numbers.

• Performs all duties according to established claim procedures and company policy.

• Performs other duties assigned by the operations/claims manger.

• To assign and sequences ICD-9-CM/CPT/HCPCS codes to diagnoses and procedures for documented information. Assures the final diagnoses and operative procedures as stated by the physician are valid and complete.

Abstracts all necessary information from health records to identify secondary complications and co-morbid conditions.

• Abstracts all necessary information and assigns codes (ICD-9, CPT & HCPCS), which most accurately describe each documented diagnosis, surgical procedure and special therapy or procedure according to established guidelines.

• To determines the final diagnoses and procedures stated by the physician or other health care providers are valid and complete.

PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY

• To performs a comprehensive review for the record to assure the presence of all component parts such as: patient and record identification, signatures and dates where required and other necessary data in the presence of all reports which appear to be indicated by the nature of the treatment rendered.

Is looking for a

• To evaluates the record for documentation consistency and adequacy. CPC ensures that the final diagnosis accurately reflects the care and treatment rendered. Reviews the records for compliance with established TPAs when submitted.

Security Officer

• Establishes and maintains a log for claims process, by assigning batch numbers.

To work 4 days per week salary $6.00.

• Performs all duties according to established claim procedures and company policy.

Contact: 347-9136

• Performs other duties assigned by the operations/claims manger or authorized person to assign such duties.

9391

R & B TIRES

Person specification

Is looking for a

• Preferred candidate should completion tertiary level education, and must have no less than two years of coding experience using ICD-9-CM or equivalency. CCS, ChhCS-P or CPC certification is required. CPC is expected to enroll in continuing education courses to maintain certification.

• Advance knowledge of medical terminology, abbreviations, techniques and surgical procedures; anatomy and physiology; major disease processes; pharmacology; and the metric system to identify specific clinical findings, to support existing diagnoses, or substantiate listing additional diagnoses in the medical record.

Tire

repairman To work 6 days per

• Advance knowledge of medical codes involving selections of most accurate and description code using the ICD-9-CM, Volumes 1- 3, CPT, HCPCS, and IHS coding conventions.

week including holidays and weekends salary $5.25 per hour.

• Skill in correlating generalized observations/symptoms (vital signs, lab results, medications, etc.) to a stated diagnosis to assign the correct ICD-9CM code.

Send resumes to P.O. Box 477, Providenciales9416

• Advance knowledge of medical codes involving selection of most accurate and descriptive code using the CPT codes for billing.

SAMUEL FORBES is looking for a

• Must have good math skills and effective communication skills.

• Very detail oriented with the ability to multi-task • Show initiative • Time management skills • Must be able to follow instructions and work independently.

carpenter To work 5 days

Salary Salary for this position is $30,000.00 per annum.

Deadline for Submission is November 15, 2013.

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

All Applications should be addressed to: Chief Executive Officer National Health Insurance Board Salt Mills Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: recruitment@tcinhip.tc

contact: 231-6370

9410

9401

November 16 - 22, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LABOURER / GARDENER

Richard Gervais is seeking a

LABOURER To work 6 days Per Week at a salary of $5.00 per hour.

Please send applications to Savory & Co. Fax 946 4848, Email reception@savory-co.com

9395

DELICIOUS DISHES

CABANA BAR AT OCEAN CLUB

Is looking for a

• New business practice company seeks coordinator/ nigh auditor to manage new clients • Must have at least 10 years in the business community, accounting practices experience, Microsoft Suite programming experience and an available attitude.

• Must be able to build and manage Microsoft Access Database • Must have extensive knowledge with QuickBooks Accountant Suite and ability to manage multiple accounts.

Please send resume to: sealsecurity@hotmail.com

9388

domestic

worker To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 345-5720 9399

Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services

Is looking for a

Is looking for qualified, experienced applicants for the position of:

SHANIQUA WILLIAMS

WANTED

For a residential property in Providenciales. $6/hr.

Belongers only need apply.

9418

Contact: 946-4873

COORDINATOR/ NIGHT AUDITOR

On behalf of his clients:

Kitchen Helper Dishwasher Bartender Server

Pratt's Barber Shop & Spa is seeking employment for the following:

1) Cosmetologist

The successful applicant must posses the following skills and experience: • Must have experience in your respective field • Food safe certificate or equivalent • Must be willing to work holidays and weekends on a flexible schedule • Ability to speak English is essential • Must have a clean police record Preference will be give to experience and qualified Belongers Please contact: 441-3466 for an appointment or interview.

Wage commensurate with experience 9393

domestic

worker To work 6 days

per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 347-0720

9392

Weekly News the national newspaper of the turks and caicos islands

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands’ oldest and WRITERS / leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:

PHOTO JOURNALISTS

Candidates must have at least five (5) years experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

Starting Salary is negotiable. Interested candidate may contact 246-5677 for further details regarding employment.

Mama Variety Store is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Salary is $6.50 per hour. Interested candidate may submit their application through ricardofulford@gmail.com for further details regarding employment.

Coicou Fulford is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Starting Salary is negotiable. Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail. com for further details regarding employment.

Cyliane Variety Store is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Starting Salary is $ 5.00 per hour. Interested candidate may contact 342-3874 For further details regarding employment.

Example of Christ Church Abundant Life Ministries is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Starting Salary is 6:00 per hour. Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail. com for further details regarding employment Tropical Bar is seeking employment for the following:

1) Security Officer 1) Domestic Worker

Interested candidate may contact employer at 241-0426 or visit employer opposite Car Quest, Providenciales for further details regarding employment between 4-6 pm.

Tendra Musgrove is seeking employment for the following:

1) Skill Labourer

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com for further details regarding employment TCI Waste Disposal is seeking employment for the following:

1) Mechanic

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com further details regarding employment

REPORTER TRAINEE

L.P.S is seeking employment for the following:

Preferably a High School graduate or someone with an extremely good command of the English language for court and community reporting.

Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset.

Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

Position available March 1, 2010

Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@gmail.com for further details regarding employment.

1) Sale Person

Roselene Davilma Hall is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Interested candidate may contact 241-9224 for further details regarding employment.

Forward applications to: The Publisher Duncanson Publications Ltd. P.O. Box 52, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Email: tcnews@tciway.tc NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE Preference will be given to Belongers and Legal Residents Closing date for applications is November 31, 2013

SOUTHSIDE SEAFOOD is seeking employment for the following:

1) Labourer

Interested candidate may apply through Ricardo Consultant Services for further details regarding employment.

Ricardo Fulford, Immigration and Labour Consultant President of Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services ricardofulford@ gmail.com (649) 346-1125

9421

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LEMON 2 GO

BARISTA (CATERING MANAGER) Requirements:

• Minimum 2 years barista experience and 4 years customer facing experience • Fully trained in all aspects of health and safety regulations in the kitchen with staff, cleanliness, storage and production of food • Willing to work irregular, long and late hours • Command a broad knowledge of kitchen and restaurant terminology • Comprehensive QuickBooks knowledge • Comprehensive POS experience • Good computer literacy • Must have valid drivers license • Engaging and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public • Salary $1,400-$1,500 per month dependent on experience Please bring all applications with two (2) letters of recommendation citing relevant experience in the same industry to:

Flowers by Environmental Arts locate at U102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email to: admin@environmentalarts.tc Successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview

9417

BAMBARRA BAKERY

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Bakery Assistant

Acting on behalf of our clients: Tender Love and Care School Daycare and Nursery

Is looking for a

• Responsible for general cleaning of bakery equipment • Make sure bakery is kept tidy at all times • Packing of baking products for distribution • Must be honest and have a pleasant attitude towards customers • Must be willing to work from 4am-1pm (long hours) 5 days per week and sometimes weekends Salary $5.50 per hour

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO LEASE OFFICE SPACE TO THE NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BOARD The National Health Insurance Board is inviting suitable Owners with commercial office space for rent to submit a proposal for the re-location of the NHIB office. The office has reached its maximum capacity for administrative functions which competes with the storage space needed. The best and seemingly most practical option is to relocate the office.

– $6.00 per hour Contact: 946-4759 Kevin & Son Construction

Project Manager

To work 5 days per week – salary $12.00 per hour.

Email: discount@tciway.tc 9442

Contact: 9464758 or 345-5468 9432

CLUB SODAX

BCS-CS/FPN-CS-GRACE BAY CAR RENTAL/GOLDEN SCISSORS, MAC MOTORS ARE LOOKING FOR:

TENDER NOTICE

Teacher

is looking for a

Janitors/Labourers/ Mechanics/ Tailor/ Storekeeper/Computer Technologist • Must be willing to work 6 days per week • Must have a valid drivers license • Must have a clean record • Salary commensurate with experience

Please send your resume @ branditz@yahoo.com 9437

Labourer

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

Contact: 345-9050 or 242-1526 for further details regarding employment

MANAGER/ FLORAL DESIGNER Requirements: • Minimum 5 years experience as a florist with relevant certification • Knowledge of different flowers, foliage and potted plants (names, seasonal availability, lifespan) • Up-to-date on current fashions and styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for weddings, funerals etc.

• Comprehensive knowledge of QuickBooks Enterprise and POS System • Willing to work outdoors for set ups and weddings with irregular hours • 2 years customer facing experience and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public • English speaking • Engaging and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public • Starting salary $2,000.00 per month

The needs of the NHIB Office: • A facility with available utilities and a target size of 5,000 square feet, with a minimum of 3,000 square feet dedicated to administrative functions and Customer Service.

• A facility that will allow for future expansion if needed.

• A location more centrally located to serve the needs of the community.

• A well secured building to better control access to the office. The solicitation package should consist of the following information: • Total square feet available.

• Floor plan • Cost per square feet • Cost of retrofitting the space to the NHIB specifications.

Please bring all applications to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at U102, Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email to: Natalie@ environmentalarts.tc successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview

The RFP must provide dates, locations, business license and other information specific to this solicitation. You must provide information about your company, and any subcontractors you wish to utilize, requested in these various attachments, including certain financial and conflict of interest disclosures. Your response to this solicitation is voluntary, but without requested information, we will not be able to consider your proposal.

MARINA VIEW BEAUTY SALON

BUGALOOS CONCH CRAWL Is looking for a

Is looking for a

All proposals must be hand delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to the Chief Executive, National Health Insurance Board, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

cosmetologist

NOTICE TO TENDERES:

TENDERS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN A SEALED PLAIN ENVELOPE WITH THE TENDER ENVELOPE LABEL CLEARLY VISIBLE ON THE FRONT. THE ENVELOPE SHOULD NOT INDICATE THE SENDER’S NAME.

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

TENDER TITLE:

PROPOSAL TO LEASE OFFICE SPACE TO THE NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BOARD.

Tender Closing:

Tenders will be received up to 10:00am, November 29, 2013 and will be opened on December 2, 2013.

9394

Contact: 243-1018

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

9438

36 CLASSIFIEDS

9435

kitchen helper To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour Must have knowledge of proper handling of seafood’s and kitchen hygiene.

Contact: 242-5646

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

9452

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHILIP VIXAMAR

CLASSIFIEDS 37 E. GARLAND DELORES CONOLLY Is looking for a

Is looking for an

Is looking for a

Domestic Worker Skill Requirements:

;;Must be consistently punctual for work. ;;Maintain a clean workstation 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, highpressure environment. ;;Be able to stand on ones feet for 8 hours and be comfortable lifting 25 pounds or more without physical restrictions. ;;Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule ;;Assist management when vendors receive orders ;;Must be able to communicate in English ;;Must be polite and cordial to co-workers and

guests at all times ;; Participate in the overall success of the kitchen by completing tasks assigned by the Executive Chef or General Manager ;; Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: ;; Work with staff members to assure that the restaurant is clean and well maintained throughout the duration of their shift. Support dish area and kitchen by doing the following tasks: Washing dishes, Basic food preparation such as portioning items or peeling vegetables 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.

Labourer upholster Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 341-1373

9366

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-4070

9426

Belongers Given Preference, Apply in Person with CV to be considered

DUFRY GRAND TURK LTD. is seeking

Supervisor

• Supervisor should have a minimum of 5 years working experience with fine jewelry retail store • Two (2) years experience in duty free/tax free cruise ship passenger arena • Excellent communication skills • Strong leadership skills and management competencies

• Sales associate should have at least 2 years retail experience • Excellent communication skills • Fluent in English • Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays

Remuneration based on experience – commencing $40k per annum.

Belongers only need apply.

9383

Caicos Resorts

Has an immediate vacancy for a

Senior Architect / Project Manger

The successful candidate must be a Registered (RIBA, AIA, ARB) Architect with +15 years experience; must be prolific with AutoCAD 2012, Sketchup Pro, Adobe and Microsoft Office Suites and willing to work weekends and holidays when required.

Applications must be sent no later than Thursday, November 28th, 2013 to:

Misick & Stanbrook Email: info misickstanbrook.tc Tel: (649) 946-4732. Fax: (649) 946-4734

contact: 241-3362

9435

GUTROOF MANFACTURING Is looking for a

labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 432-3945

9441

Experienced Senior Litigation Paralegal required to act as Paralegal/Professional Support Executive to a commercial litigation team. At least 5 years prior experience working in a commercial litigation environment is required. Candidates must also have a Law Degree or Graduate Diploma in Law as well as having passed the Legal Professional Course or equivalent. A Master’s Degree in law will be a distinct advantage. Must demonstrate experience and knowledge of having dealt independently with all matters relating to contentious practice, litigation, employment law dispute resolution and alternative dispute resolution. Must have excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Must have vehicle and clean driving record. The applicant must be able to work overtime when required due to case urgency. References will be required.

Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience.

delivery driver Contact: 231-3788

EXPERIENCED SENIOR LITIGATION PARALEGAL WANTED

Please send application in writing to email: rik@gtclaw.com

Is looking for a Part-time

With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

Sales Associate

Send resume to: Tito Matthew tito.matthew@gt.dufty.com

FLOWER GIRL

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

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

9431

38 CLASSIFIEDS

November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GENESISAUTO MOBILE REPAIR Is looking to hire a

JOB ADVERTISEMENT Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a contemporary luxury full service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.

Essential duties include but not limited to: Manages the resort’s maintenance and engineering operations including guest rooms, building structures, front and back of house facilities, all mechanical, electrical, water treatment and HVAC systems, refrigeration and any related equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures. Works closely with leadership to develop and execute an operating strategy that aligns with business strategy. Maximize the prevention of crime. Responsible for 24 hour monitoring of property via patrol and CCTV and to document and record information as historic reference. Manages controllable expenses through the implementation of cost saving and energy conservation programs (e.g., wages, heat, light and power, water consumption, tools and equipment, grounds keeping supplies, uniforms, vendors, service agreements, inventory, etc.). Monitors and maintains fire, health and safety systems and collaborates with relevant fire, emergency and governmental agencies to ensure complete understanding of regulations, procedures, alarms, and equipment. Maintain legible and accurate records of all control centre documents to include General Security Log, Key Control, Lost and Found and Visitor Passes. Develops engineering and security budget and ensures departmental performance meets/exceeds budgetary goals. Regularly reviews financial reports/ statements/forecasts to evaluate financial performance against budget. Controls engineering and security expenditures and ensures all projects are completed timely and within budget. Serves as project manager on resort projects, overseeing all aspects from design and costing to construction. Controls and administers all engineering/service contracts throughout the resort, always negotiating in the best interest of the resort.

Collaborates with vendors/contractors and monitors work product to ensure quality standards are consistent with the requirements of a luxury resort. Develops, implements and manages emergency and disaster management programs. Review scheduled functions, group, or VIP arrivals and special events and to discuss special instructions with relevant departments. Be flexible with work hours, regardless of time, during day, or night, in order to personally facilitate security arrangements of cases that require special treatment and handling. Assists with developing Strata budget and managing Strata Costs, Manages accurate and timely bill back process for Condo units. Liaise with local authorities in order to identify activities that may affect the operation of the hotel such as seasonal events, current community crime trends, political activism and other, and to share any such concerns with superiors. Provide access, when required, to high-risk areas, exercising vigilance for the protection

Contact: 241-4156

of assets and to secure the area when access is no longer required. Supervise the maintenance of the security log entries and to track all security officer patrol reports and subsequent security activities. Develops, implements and manages emergency and disaster management programs.

Manages pool chemical balance and maintenance of all pool equipment. Maintains FFE. Manages and maintains security cameras and lighting systems. Develops, executes and monitors preventative maintenance and asset protection programs. Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures. Exercises general supervision over the engineering and security team and communicates a clear and concise vision regarding department goals to produce desired results. Liaises with department heads to understand challenges and ensure maintenance needs are addressed. Proactively addresses problems and quickly identifies and implements solutions. Keeps owners and executives informed, and provides timely response to queries from the same. Hires, mentors and trains staff; establishes performance guidelines; and evaluates staff performance in accordance with resort policies. Complies with departmental standard operating procedures, Resort policies and TCIG health and safety regulations

LA VISTA AZUL CONDOMINIUM L V A MANAGEMENT LTD.

HANDYMAN

• Must have at least 3 years experience in working in a resort • Must be able to communicate in English • Must be ready to work 6 days per week and on request • Must have knowledge of plumbing, electrical installation, air conditioning • Duties include: • Repairs to apartments and common grounds Salary $2,000.00 per month Resumes and references should be delivered to:

LA VISTA AZUL CONDOMINIUM 107 TURTLE COVE DR., PROVIDENCIALES

Skills • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field with a minimum of 10 years’ as Director of Engineering with experience in a Luxury Resort environment, or equivalent combination of experience and education.

• Minimum 5 years experience with Luxury Hotel Security Systems and Operating Procedures.

• Experience with Condo Hotel and Strata maintenance accounting/billing procedures.

• Experience with Hotel Renovations.

• Fire Safety Director Certification by US standards.

• Experience with Asset/Risk Management.

• Experience with Hurricane Preparedness and Disaster Management.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop skills, mentor and motivate a team • Thorough knowledge of resort engineering and security procedures, operations and equipment and preventative maintenance programs.

• Thorough knowledge of Building Codes, Fire Safety Systems, Irrigation Sprinkler Systems, CCTV and Security Cameras, Plumbing, Electrical, Pool Maintenance, Pool Pumps, Pool heaters, Electrical Systems, Generators, Energy Management Systems, Mechanical and HVAC, Commercial Stereo and Speaker Systems, Waste Treatment System, Lift Stations, Kitchen and Laundry Equipment & Maintenance, Grease Trap Maintenance, Painting, Dry Wall and Carpentry disciplines.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language • Computer proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook • Proficiency in MS Office, Opera PMS. • Deadline oriented with the ability to multi-task and establishes priorities.

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm 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

Salary $10.00 per hour. Must have your own diagnostic system.

L.P.S.

9404

Director of Engineering & Security Accountable for managing the engineering and security operations for a five-star resort. The successful candidate will be responsible for short and long-range planning, coordinating all capital, expansion, and special projects, and management of the engineering and security department’s financial budget.

Mechanic

LUC SAINT JEAN Is looking for a

Is looking to hire a

baker To work 6 days per week from 7am-2pm.

contact: 242-7748

domestic

worker

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

contact: 241-7995 9431

CORAL GARDENS

waiter Is looking for a

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

9414

contact: 432-1480

9405

November 16 - 22, 2013

Y.A.3.B CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients

LEW & JAN CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

B’s Beauty Box Hair & Spa

Massage Therapist – $6.00 per hour

Nail Technician – $6.00 per hour

La Familia Restaurant

Housekeeper – $6.00

Steward – $5.50.

Contact: 344-4540

CLASSIFIEDS 39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

painter

To work 6 days per week. Salary $15.00 per hour.

Contact: 347-5896 9433

Associate Attorney Local firm seeks an associate attorney with at least 5 years pqe with extensive experience in conveyancing, commercial, residential development work, also corporate and commercial law. Experience in new condominium sales, re-sales, residential and commercial property an advantage. Applicant must be an excellent communicator, willing to work long hours including weekends and holidays. Subject to experience, salary commencing at US$55K

Please submit applications to The Manager, P.O. Box 97, Caribbean Place, Providenciales, Fax 649 946 4564, with a copy to Department of Labour, Providenciales 9398

ELITE LANDSCAPING & DESIGN Is looking for a

gardener

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

Must have knowledge of insecticides. Must have knowledge of pruning and planting of trees.

Contact: 242-5646

9451

NOTICE OF SALE

BY PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands:

1. Parcel 10204/164

North Creek, North West Suburbs, Grand Turk, property comprises of a two storey unfinished duplex dwelling consisting of four bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Registered Proprietor: Devon Rigby

2. Parcel 10409/198

East Suburbs, Grand Turk, this property comprises of a residential lot supporting a two storey building. There are three one-bedroom units on the lower level with open kitchen/living/dining area and a bathroom. The upper level supports a three bedroom main unit with kitchen, living room, dining room, two bathrooms, powder room and storage with balcony and lower level terrace.

Registered Proprietor: Nate Elvin Lightbourne

3. Parcel 60807/170

The Bight & Thomas Stubbs This property comprises of a single storey, three bedrooms, two bathrooms individually constructed residence of fair specification with an attached studio apartment and an integral garage currently enclosed and used as a deck.

Registered Proprietor: Thoshena Terrell Adderley

4. Parcel 60900/147

Leeward Going Through, Providenciales this property comprises of a main house with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room, utility room and storage closets. There is also a guest house to the rear of property comprising of two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and living/dining area. Externally, there are boundary walls and landscaping to the grounds.

Registered Proprietor: Bloney Beatrice Smith

5. Parcel 60900/366

Leeward Going Through, Providenciales this property comprises of a detached single storey building with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, living room and dining room. Additional work include an open terrace to rear, front boundary walls and gateways.

Registered Proprietor: Oscar Keith Talbot and Florinda Louise Talbot

6. Parcel 60003/127

North West & North Central, Providenciales this property forms part of phase one of the Priton Homes affordable housing scheme which consist of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, living/dining area and laundry room.

Registered Proprietor: Alfred Hurbert Stuart and Julianna Adiola Stuart

Newly renovated office space, above The Flower Girl

1,000 sq ft. facing Leeward Highway and overlooking Flamingo Lake. Ideal for a lawyer's office, spa, real estate business, doctor's or dental offices, etc.

Reasonable rent Contact 9464894, 9464664 or email tcnews@tciway.tc

7. Parcel 60503/152

Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales this property comprises of a single storey detached residence two bedrooms, one bathroom with an open living/dining area, a kitchen and laundry room.

Registered Proprietor: Kirkley George Rigby The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 29th day of November 2013 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.

Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Department (649) 339-7100.

9440

40 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MANAGER MAJ’s Enterprises is seeking a qualified individual to fill the post of “Boutique Manager”. This position is based at a resort and responsible for overall management of the boutique operations:

• Supervision and management of staff, including scheduling, training, and coaching staff • Prepare daily and monthly sales reports for MAJ’s Directors

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Qualifications

• Supervision and Monitoring of overall floor operations including daily display designs and resort themes • Management of store inventories by monitoring weekly sales reports; selection and procurement of store merchandise • Marketing of store merchandise, including organization of weekly fashion shows, and implementing innovative weekly promotions • Monitoring overall store quality, including stock levels, merchandising, sales growth

QUALIFICATIONS 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 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. This is a live in position and candidate is expected to be hardworking, trustworthy and a team player.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

9411

ACA/ACCA/CA An opportunity exists for two fully qualified accountants who possess a minimum of five years professional experience gained within a “Big Four” public accounting firm. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

If you wish to be considered for these opportunities please apply in confidence by sending details of your experience and qualifications to either: The Labour Commissioner, KPMG Ltd. Or Labour Office P.O. Box 357 Butterfield Square 18 The Village at Grace Bay Providenciales Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Turks & Caicos Islands

Or fax your particulars to 946-4619

9402

LIVE IN SERVER REQUIRED FOR PRIVATE VILLA

• General maintenance and cleanliness of the villa so attention to detail is essential • Housekeeping responsibilities with an awareness of cost control and energy saving • Assist private chef with shopping and meal preparation when necessary so a background knowledge of culinary skills is helpful • Understanding of the needs and requirements of demanding guests is of paramount importance • This position requires some manual work such as assistance with guest’s luggage, some landscaping, pool maintenance etc.

• Clean drivers license is essential as this position requires running errands for guests • This position reports directly to the Villa Manager

REMUNERATION • Salary $1,000.00-$1,300.00 a month • Accommodation and food allowance provided

Applications must also apply in writing with resumes to: info@coralhouse.tc or Villa Manager P.O. Box 143 Providenciales

9408

LIVE-IN VILLA COOK REQUIRED FOR PRIVATE VILLA The successful candidate must possess the following:

• The successful candidate must possess the following and be willing to work closely with the villa cook • Preferable at least 5 years experience in a luxury hotel or restaurant or working in a private residence • He/she must possess an understanding of a range of international cuisines, (Asian Fusion, French, Italian) as well as guests individual dietary preferences that include vegetarian, vegan and kosher, organic diets etc.

• Ability and responsibility to take on menu planning and food preparation for house parties, BBQ, business meetings • Possess and understanding of the needs and requirements of demanding guests is of paramount importance • Maintain the cleanliness and proper sanitation of the kitchen at all times including deep cleansing of appliances, pots and pans, kitchen utensils etc.

• Be willing to work flexible hours, weekends, holidays etc.

• Be able to work within a team, be reliable and trustworthy • Be extremely well presented and have a good command of English • Must be prepared to carry out other duties when guests are not in house • Salary dependent on experience

• Preferably at least 5 years experience in a luxury hotel or restaurant or as a personal cook in a private residence • He/she must possess the ability to prepare a range of international cuisines, (Asian Fusion, French, Italian), as well as cater to guests individual dietary preferences that include vegetarian, vegan and kosher, organic diets etc.

• Full ability and responsibility to take on menu planning and food preparation for house parties BBQ, business meetings • Maintain the cleanliness and proper sanitation of the kitchen at all times including deep cleaning of appliances, pots and pans, kitchen utensils etc.

• Exercise good cost control presenting monthly monitoring and replenishment of stocks, and supplies • Computer literacy would be an advantage but not essential with the ability to record and present invoices • Be willing to work flexible hours, weekends, holidays etc.

• Be able to work within a team, be reliable and trustworthy • Be extremely well presented and have a good command of English • Must be prepared to carry out other duties when guests are not in house Salary dependent on experience NOTE THIS IS A LIVE IN POSITION

NOTE THIS IS A LIVE IN POSITION Suitable qualified candidates must apply in writing with resume to: info@coralhouse.tc or The Villa Manager, P.O. Box 143, Providenciales

LIVE IN VILLA BUTLER Required for luxurious rental villa in Providenciales

• Experience in Marketing, Tourism or Small Businesses • At least five years (5) managerial experience in retail and sales • Must be skilled in ordering methods and inventory management • Must be proficient in computer systems including accounting and data management soft ware • Will be required to work nights, long hours, weekends and holidays • Must be able to speak and understand French

Interested persons should forwarded a letter of application and resume to clubmedboutiquetci@outlook.com, no later than November 1st, 2013

November 16 - 22, 2013

Suitable qualified candidates must apply in writing with resume to: info@coralhouse.tc or The Villa Manager, P.O. Box 143, Providenciales 9407

9406

November 16 - 22, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

DIADRA MCKENZIE

Quick Steps Shoe Repair

CARIBBEAN CAFÉ/ DOLPHINS SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Is looking for a

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Mixologist Cocktail Waitress Domestic Worker

domestic worker

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 345-5507

Salary negotiable Contact: 332-6364

9400

4 BOAT DECK WORKERS

LABOURER

• General cleaning; yard, vehicle, equipment & building.

• Must be able to manage hot working conditions.

• Must be in good health as physically demanding work.

• Night shifts required.

• Fluent in English and be a team worker, reliable.

• Pay rate: $5/hour

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

9447

PROVO SEAFOOD is looking for the following positions

• Must be able to assist with loading of deck cargo • Ability to work on entire barge L.C.M. 8 when necessary in dock or open sea

MECHANIC HELPER • Ability to charge oil and simple maintenance

LABOURER

• Can assist mechanic with changing equipment oil, move around equipment on site • Assist with general maintenance • Salary negotiable

Contact: 231-0098 or 245-3044

9434

Boat Captain

DISH

– $8.00 per hour

WASHER

Labourer

Contact 941-8408 for

contact: 946-4727

Needed for a busy restaurant in Providenciales.

Salary $5.50 per hour

– $6.00 per hour

9425

interview with your resume.

Down Town, Providenciales Telephone: 941-4800

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary starts at $5.00.

Only Turks Islanders need to apply 9444

DEEP BLUE & FRESH FISH

is looking for the following persons:

MARINE MECHANIC

Must be willing to work 6 days per week. Must have knowledge of boat and automobiles Salary $8.00 per hour

FISHERMEN

Must be willing to work 6 days per week. Must have knowledge of the Turks and Caicos Banks. Salary based on commission.

Contact: 2415678 or 343-0727 9453

9443

Sunny Reef Ltd TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL INSURANCE BOARD

TENDER NOTICE The National Insurance Board invites open tenders for:

RENOVATION AND REFURBISHMENT OF THE HON. L. HEADLEY DURHAM BUILDING, CHURCH FOLLY ROAD, GRAND TURK Tender Reference No. TR 11/13 Bidders should be licensed contractors with a valid business license.

Further information and documents are available on the NIB website www.tcinib.tc .

Tenders must be addressed to the Chairman of the Turks & Caicos National Insurance Board Tender Committee at the Waterloo Road, Grand Turk or the Hon. Hilly A. Ewing Building, Providenciales and tenders must be received at one of those locations on or before 12 noon Turks & Caicos Islands time on the 29th of November 2013.

Experience Restaurant Industry. Ability to read, speak and write English must be able to remember & recite. Promote a Pleasant personality, ability to communicate with others. Must be a team player

3-5 years’ experience.

Waiter Cook

5-7 years. Must be a good team player, work at fast pace. Must know how to prepare French & Indonesian Cuisine.

3-5 years in busy kitchen.

Labourer Head Chef

This candidate should have 4-6 years in the French culinary arts. Must be able to manage and organize a busy kitchen, Must be a team player. Must know how to prepare French and international cuisine.

Administrative Assistance

* This candidate should be mature and have seven years’ experience in the field of administration and hotel. Must have a sound mind, work well under pressure and be able body. Multi-tasking is a must. * Training & knowledge in Microsoft, bookkeeping, accounting and quick books & Peachtree * Verification of weekly and sheets & monthly timesheets & contract payments * Client billing, employee hours, payroll. Stock keeping & inventory and supplies * Operate phone facsimile phone system. Type memos, letters, etc

Date: Friday 8 and Friday15th November, 2013 Contact: 946-8200 or email: info@mangoreef.com

42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

PROVO UPHOLSTRY Is looking for a

Immediate Opening FRONT OFFICE MANAGER KEY ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Manage and supervise all tasks of front office personnel to ensure guests receive prompt, cordial attention and personal recognition • Supervise the Front Office team to ensure optimum occupancy and average room rate for the purpose of maximizing revenue • Monitor Front Office, and particularly Guest Relations personnel, to ensure priority guests, repeat guests and other VIPs receive special attention and recognition • Promote Inter-Hotel sales and in-house facilities and monitors Front Office Marketing techniques in line with FIT marketing program • Assume overall responsibility for maintaining standards to ensure furnishings facilities and equipment are clean, in good repair and well maintained • Interpret computer reports and compile relevant statistics for front office • Conduct comprehensive monthly departmental meetings to include a review of procedures and events which warrants special handling and detailed information • Communicate to Hotel Manager all pertinent information such as the expected arrival and departure of VIPs • Prepare efficient work and vacation schedule for Front Office Staff, taking into consideration project occupancy and forecasts and any large group movements Duties include: • Plan for future staffing needs and recruit in line with company guidelines • Prepare detailed induction programs for new staff • Analyze training needs of Front Office staff and develop training programs • Conduct probation and formal performance appraisals • Coach, counsel, discipline staff and provide constructive feedback to staff • Work with the Finance and Business Manager in the preparation and management of the department’s budget • Adhere to OH&S policies and procedures and ensure all direct reports do the same PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES • Excellent communication skills in English • Ability to communicate in a second language • Ability to work well under pressure, focus on details, think clearly, analyze and resolve problems, exercise good judgment, always with calm and composure • Strong working knowledge of budgets, forecasting, profit and loss statements • Good computer knowledge; able to use property management system • Ability to ensure security and confidentiality of guest and hotel information • Ability to work with constant interruptions with a high degree of professionalism • Ability to direct performance of staff and follow up

with corrections where needed

Labourer To work 6 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 941-5010

QUALIFICATIONS • Degree from School for Tourism & Hotel Management or other professional qualification

9424

EXPERIENCE • Minimum 5 years’ relevant experience with at least 3 year at a management level.

Starting salary $35,000 per annum, not including service charge

THE TUSCANY RESORT Is looking 2

Housekeepers

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

To work 5 days, $5.50 per hour.

Requirements: • BA/BS Degree or equivalent.

• At least 10 years experience.

• At least 7 years management/supervisory experience at a property of similar size and quality.

• At least 4 years of international multi-unit property experience.

• Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most specifically, Excel Spreadsheet Solutions.

• Complete understanding of Executive Committee level functions.

• Demonstrated understanding of interdepartmental relations and expectations in the luxury hotel market.

• Sound knowledge of both European and American Accounting Plans.

• Previous and in depth experience, understanding and application of management contracts.

• Thorough understanding of H.O.A. contracts and contractual management.

• Solid training in all areas of Accounting from A/P, A/R, General Ledger, Credit, Collections, Audit, Inventory control, Payroll, Budgeting, Costing, P&L preparation and analysis, etc.

• Ability to inspire, develop and train people for promotion.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts

Interested person, please contact 941-4667.

9438

THE TUSCANY RESORT is looking for a

GARDENER To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 941-4667 9436

Duties Include: • Managing the day to day operations of the accounting department and overseeing the staff.

• Assisting executive management, ownership and related associations with the production of financial reports, detailed analysis and business outlook.

• Directing departments in the preparation and consolidation of financial budgets and projections.

• Prepare, present and provide interpretation of operational reports as they impact the business finances.

• Developing and maintaining chart of accounts and master lists.

• Actively involved in yield management and revenue enhancement.

• Coordinating internal and external audits.

T & C COPSER SEEKS MOTIVATED EMPLOYEES FOR CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WITH A MINIMUM OF 10 YEARS EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATION IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

• ELECTRICAL TECHNICIANS (2 NEEDED) • 1 INDUSTRIAL MECHANIC • 1 ARCHITECT

Interested applicants should apply to Regent Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday and bring along a recent resume or by emailing to marjorie. dorsett@regenthotels.com, no later than end of day, Friday, November 29, 2013.

9430

SALARLY BASED ON EXPERIENCE. PLEASE APPLY IN WRITING TO P.O. BOX 170, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS.

9448

November 16 - 22, 2013

43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational

Tendulkar is greatest cricketer in history - Brian Lara WEST Indies legend Brian Lara believes Sachin Tendulkar should be remembered as the greatest cricketer in history.

The 40-year-old is started his 200th and final Test in his hometown of Mumbai against West Indies on Thursday.

He had 38 unbeaten runs after day one.

The Indian is the highest runscorer in international cricket, with 15,847 runs in 199 Tests and 18,426 runs in

JUDY MINI BAR Is looking for

LATINO CONSTRUCTION

CAICOS CAFÉ LTD.

SOMMELIER/ WINE SPECIALIST

Must have knowledge and experience in customer service. Must be bi-lingual Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

Contact: 243-1095

9450

carpenter to work 5 days per week salary $9.00 per hour.

contact: 347-0771

9455

“I don’t think there is any 16-year-old who is going to embark on the sort of career that Sachin Tendulkar has had and walk away from the game at 40 with such great achievements.

“He’s the Muhammad Ali and the Michael Jordan of cricket. You think of the great boxers and basketball players, but if you were to talk about the game then you would have to talk about Sachin.” (BBC)

Is looking for the following persons:

Is looking for a

Barmaids

Lara.

Tendulkar last year became the only batsman in history to score 100 international centuries, and he will become the first man to play 200 Tests.

“The impact he has had on his game, his country, the rest of the world is incredible,” added Lara, who scored 11,953 Test runs.

“His stats speak for themselves,” continued Lara.

Caicos Café located on Grace Bay is seeking an individual with a sommelier certification who specializes in all aspect of wine services and food pairing, coordinates all service beverage of the restaurant and work with the management team and chef regarding food and beverage cost. Must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays 6 days per week have at least 8 years experience, able to speak and write English, physically fit, dependable and hardworking

PASTRY AND BAKERY CHEF

MAITRE D HOTEL

CHEF DE PARTIE

Must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays, 6 days per week, must have at least 10 years experience, physically fit, dependable and hardworking, must be able to train wait staff, able to organize restaurant staff and service, must be able to prepare work schedules, coordinate all service of the restaurant and work with head chef for menu planning and a good knowledge of wine and food pairing

Must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays, 6 days per week, able to clean the kitchen after service, must have at least 8 years experience, good knowledge of bread and bakery goods, good knowledge of plated dessert, birthday cake, homemade ice cream and sorbet, must be able to speak English, physically fit, dependable and hardworking Must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays, 6 days per week , clean the kitchen after service, have at least 8 years experience, good knowledge of sautéed seafood, shellfish, meat and poultry, grilling, rotisserie, butchery, sauces, broth and dressing, must be able to speak English, physically fit, dependable and hardworking Salaries are paid based on experience and quality of work

All resumes CV’s letter of reference along with a clean police record must be delivered at CAICOS CAFÉ GRACE BAY

9403

Sachin Tendulkar was expected to retire after his 200th Test match.

463 one-day internationals.

“Tendulkar has had the greatest cricket career of anyone who has ever played the game,” said Lara.

Lara, 44, and Tendulkar have similar records, with Lara averaging just under 53 in his 131 Tests and Tendulkar a fraction over 53.

Tendulkar, though, made his Test debut aged only 16 and will end his career having played 69 more matches than

44

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

Provo Hockey League:

Gators make it 3-0 – Lightning gain revenge on Hurricanes THE Gansevoort Gators pushed their winning streak to 3-0 when action continued in the Provo Hockey League at the Graceway Sports Centre last Saturday.

The Mini Division leaders, the Gators, edged out the Saunders and Company Owls 4-2 with Jake Whent scoring two goals and Zoe Diotte-Joly and Ronin Maclaren one each. Aiden Paisley and Joshua Saunders scored one a-piece for the Owls.

Michael Saunders (three goals and one assist) and Jaden Robinson (two goals) again played well as their team, the Digicel 4G Comets, defeated the Sailrock Lobsters 7-4.

Jack Blain and Ethan Brubaker (one goal and one assist) were also on target for the winners.

Sam Connolly led the Lobsters with a pair, while there was one each for Veejay Kalliecharen, and

Giovanni Astwood.

BANTAM DIVISION Last season’s Bantam champions, the Coco Bistro Lightning, also gained revenge over the J&W Construction Hurricanes in the third week of play. The defending champs were able to keep Orrin Campbell, who had scored 18 goals in three games, to a single successful strike.

Javid Shearer had scored twice, but he could not match the scoring prowess of Sebastian Turbyfield with four goals.

Prior to that clash Campbell had scored five goals in his team’s 8-7 win over the Gracebay Resorts Surge. Shearer had three assists while Brubaker had two successful strikes and Joe Canham one.

For the Surge Bradley Ayer scored four goals and made two assists while Zarek Swann added

two goals and an assist and Theo Wheldon one.

MIDGET DIVISION The Gracebay Car Rentals and Sales Panthers and the Scotiabank Sharks kept their undefeated streaks intact after drawing 3-3. Cole Nickeson scored all of the Sharks’ goals while Gabriel Diotte-Joly scored two and Darius Coakley the other for the Panthers.

The Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates bounced back from their five-goal loss, against the Panthers in weektwo, to inflict a simple margin of defeat (9-4) on the BCQS Flames.

Liam Delancy had four goals while Kyle Cox and Dockarick Barrett added three and two goals respectively.

The Flames were led by Gregory Lewis who scored three goals and an assist.

TCIFA officially separates from Green

THE Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) will announce the appointment of a new technical director by the end of the month.

Earlier this week the local body officially revealed that it will not renew the contract of Englishman Matthew Green.

Green was instrumental in the grassroots development of the sport over the last few years, but not all in the local executive felt that he was the man to take football to the next level. Things got sour when a BBC article was done a few weeks back on the then technical director with the headline: “The Englishman in charge of the worst team in the world.”

In an official press release on Thursday the local body pointed out that in September Green was told that his contract would not be renewed. The official separation started on Wednesday November 13.

Matthew Green was the technical director of the TCIFA for several years.

“The TCIFA thanks Mr. Green for his contribution during his tenure and wishes him well with his future endeavour.”

The release stated that the current weekday regional programmes as well as the Saturday grassroots programmes will continue as normal on the same dates and times. The release also stated that the TCIFA is working swiftly on a replacement.

Josh for Sports

The history of athletics part IV FUNDRAISERS THE TCAAA did not beg for funds. We raised funds by staging a 100 miles relay-a-thon around the island of Grand Turk. It took between 6-7 hours to complete.

Friends, relatives and business sponsored their own athlete based on the amount of miles they ran.

There were two teams competing against each other. Each athlete ended up completing GT about once—about 10 miles.

At the end of the relay, which concluded on South Beach, where the cruise centre now is, a cookout was held to further raise funds for our CARIFTA team.

RAFFLE AND BALL On March 3rd, 1978 our final event took place at the Parade Ground on the basketball court at the high school.

Tickets were sold—live music performed. A raffle, which had tickets sold for two months, was also drawn.

First prize was an all-expense paid trip to CARIFTA for two, while there were other neat prizes.

plus the verification of the athletes’ dates of births.

The next order of business was to tape up measurements of their various dresses. I had to take those particulars to the University of Florida where I contracted with Coach Jimmy Carnes, who also had a sporting goods store. He supplied our country’s first national athletics uniforms.

By Joshua Gardiner Now that the first CARIFTA team was chosen, (23 athletes), the time had come for us to conclude our preparations for the 1978 Nassau, Bahamas Games.

Selecting that first team was an emotional experience. In my opinion and in my heart, I believed that everyone on the squad should have been chosen, but realistically that was not possible.

FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS First and foremost of all, was the necessity of making sure that all travelling documents were in order,

GAINESVILLE While at the University of Florida I secured our team’s entry to participate in the Florida Relays and the Lady Gator Relays. At the same time I met Coach Brooks Johnson of Santa Fe Junior College.

One of my former athletes, sprinter Caroline Delancey (the sister of Beatrice Delancey), who I had coached in 1973 in Freeport, Grand Bahama, was a student on a track scholarship.

Coach Johnson was the US Olympic Women’s Track coach in 1976. He and I became fast friends.

PROGRESS GALORE While making rapid progress

towards finalising our entries to the Florida Relays and CARIFTA Games, we were also noticed by the IAAF. The international body asked us to send a representative to a regional meeting of their body in Puerto Rico to be considered for membership. That letter was signed by the Regional Director Dr. Armadio Francis.

It was not possible for me to personally attend. I requested that a volunteer from among our executive represent us. Only Mr. Leslie Musgrove, who was recommended to join the TCAAA as a government representative, specifically by the Hon. Jags McCartney, was available. His role was to act as a liaison between the government and the TCAAA for the purpose of channelling and monitoring whatever funds we received from the government. Thus Mr. Musgrove’s official status became that of fundraiser for the TCAAA. While I was in Florida, Mr. Musgrove represented us in Puerto Rico, where we received provisional membership.

FLORIDA RELAYS One week before the Easter weekend 1978 CARIFTA Games (Nassau, Bahamas), our CARIFTA team caught the Electra flight where they met me at the airport. We then went to the Greyhound bus station where we chartered a bus to Gainesville, some 8-10 hours away.

After three days of acclimatisation we literally got our feet wet in competition. We won three medals: Gold—Corina Capron 14 and U, 100M; Silver— Dale Taylor 14 and U, 800M; and Bronze—Edith Been 14 and U—400M. CARIFTA GAMES I delegated Coach Brooks Johnson to accompany our team to Nassau to the CARIFTA Games. I had to go to Canada to get us into the Commonwealth Games, slated for that summer.

Time was short and plenty, we won a bronze at our first CARIFTA through U-20 javelin thrower Andre Taylor. He lived with me, I coached him.

November 16 - 22, 2013

Sports National

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Outstanding Bien-Aime appointed to CONCACAF Executive Committee – Happy to break all-male monopoly at the helm – Promises to focus more on women’s development SONIA Bien-Aime is football’s wonder woman. She has made such an impact on the sport as an official that governing bodies continue to open their doors to her. In the process, she is changing the gender landscape.

After becoming a co-opted member of the FIFA Executive Committee earlier this year, the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) decided last Saturday to make her a member of their Executive Committee—a former all-male body.

The Turks Islander, who sits as general secretary of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association, aims to continue developing the sport in the region, especially at the female level.

She told the Weekly News

that: “I welcome and embrace this responsibility and will continue to commit to providing my best guidance to the development of football, in particular women’s football in the region. CONCACAF’s decision to include the representation of a woman at the top table, speaks volume of the Confederation and it gives young girls in our region hope and something to dream about.”

Bien-Aime, TCI’s most decorated sporting official, also continues to woo the hearts of many overseas.

CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb made the official announcement of her inclusion with a “great source of pride,” he also called Bien-Aime’s experience and unique perspective “invaluable” as both the CONCACAF and FIFA bodies continue to evolve.

“I applaud Sonia’s

The women’s side played with a lot of heart in the Cayman Islands.

accomplishments thus far and know that her impact moving forward will be substantial,” he said in the regional body’s official press release.

Bien-Aime was also gracious in her acceptance speech. “I would like to thank President Webb and the members of CONCACAF’s Executive Committee for their warm welcome and appreciation of my work in football.”

At the highest level Bien-Aime is one of three women on the FIFA Executive Committee. She and Asian Football Confederation VP, Moya Dodd, have co-opted status, while Burundi Football Association President Lydia Nseker is a full FIFA Executive Committee member.

In addition to her new CONCACAF post, the former TCI national football captain is also a member of the Women’s

Wonder woman of world football, TCI’s Sonia Bien-Aime, breaks another gender barrier.

Technical Committee and Deputy Chairwoman of the Women’s Championship Committee at CONCACAF. Furthermore, she serves on four key standing committees at FIFA: Organising Committee for the FIFA World

Cup, FIFA Women’s Committee and FIFA Women’s World Cup, Organising Committee for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and is the Deputy Chairwoman of the Organising Committee of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The senior men’s team destroyed BVI 40-0 to win the Shield title

NACRA Sevens:

TCI men whip BVI to win shield final – Females preform admirable in first contact outing THE Turks and Caicos senior male team, the Flamingos, make light work in the Shield final against the British Virgin Islands when the curtain came down in the North American, Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Rugby Sevens Championships last weekend at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex, in Grand Cayman.

The margin of victory was huge, 40-0, and it proved that despite our size we continue to make positive strides. The females, who went on their first contact outing, were also

impressive and did not back down from their much senior opponents.

GOOD STARTS Against Curacao in their final game the females were ahead early through Barbara Anderson and it took some fancy work from the opposing side to gain the 17-12 victory after TCI led 12-7 at the half. If Anderson had not pulled her hamstring at that stage, the game could have gone the way of TCI. TCI females also fared well against Bermuda in the Plate semi-finals after sprinting to a 12-0 lead via outstanding

runs from Jacinda Alfrena and Fiona Donaldson. The game ended 19-12 in favour of Bermuda.

In the end our females settled for eighth place.

GREAT BATTLE In the men’s shield final, the battle for 11th place, one of our juniors, Luis Turbyfield, who is attending school in the US, opened the scoring. He took the ball from the back of a scrum and outpaced the cover defense for a 7-0 lead three minutes in. Alyx Williams then made a double fend off inside the

five-metre mark to carry TCI to a 12-0 lead at the half.

A bouncing ball from the kick off to start the second half saw Andrew Seymour (another junior) collect and blaze in for a 19-0 lead.

Paul McKenzie kept the pressure on for TCI and an awkwardly kicked ball from a BVI scrum ultimately landed in his hands, following a quick pass. He finished under the posts for the 26-0 score.

Lincoln Outten then showed his pace, taking a long run from midfield to nudge the score to 33-0. The

youngster then played a blinder of a move, standing at a ruck and then suddenly striding from sixty metres out for the final score of 40-0.

TCI almost defeated Jamaica in the Bowls semi-finals. The larger island needed extra time since at the end of regulation scores were tied at 12.

Turbyfield had carried TCI ahead with a 60 metre run. Soon Outten bullied his way to the second try of the game and the conversion was made to take the score to 12-0. Jamaican then took control. Gareth Butler had a chance to possibly win the game in extra time, but an excellent 30-metre shot to goal from a Jamaican plenty fell just wide.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013

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November 16 - 22, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

November 16 - 22, 2013