Turks & Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 26 | No. 13 | March 31 - April 6, 2012

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Boyle calls for political parties to walk the talk Acting Governor and TCIG’s CEO, Patrick Boyle, has chided the local political parties for not walking the talk, but criticizing real efforts being made ...

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$7.8M paid out

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

UK Group upbeat about elections Reports fruitful discussion on regulations for elections in 2012

The four-man Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) contingent ended their stay in the Turks and Caicos on Friday and speaking to the Weekly News, the group contends that political stakeholders’ openness to discussion is encouraging.

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to 400 civil servants to date

Some $7.8M has been paid out to approximately 400 civil servants who opted for the voluntary severance package, the last of the workers having ended their term of employment with the Turks and Caicos Government (TCIG) this week.

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Firefighters have agreed to move to the TCIAA, Boyle

Firefighters at the Provo and Grand Turk airports have agreed to be transferred to the Turks and Caicos Airport Authority (TCIAA), according to Acting Governor and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands ...

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The Westminster Foundation for Democracy contingent that visited the islands this week. From left are Keith House, Andrew Percy, John Spellar and Scott Martin.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

March 31 - April 6, 2012

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

NATIONAL

Boyle calls for political parties to walk the talk

By Vanessa Narine Acting Governor and TCIG’s CEO, Patrick Boyle, has chided the local political parties for not walking the talk, but criticizing real efforts being made by the Interim Administration, while being unable to present their own policy agendas to the TCI people – particularly when they are insisting on a return to democratic rule.

“Let us learn what the policy agendas of the PNP (Progressive National Party) and the PDM (People’s Democratic Movement) are,” he said.

Boyle made these remarks when he appeared on Robert Hall’s radio programme ‘Expressions’ on Wednesday, where he noted that the Interim Administration is focused on priorities that will place TCI on track.

He noted that whether everyone agrees or not the focus of the Administration via the milestones is intended to make TCI fiscally stable, improve the civil service’s effectiveness, put in place the infrastructure that will augur well for the country’s move forward and to return democracy to the Islands.

The Acting Governor stressed that these will place the country on solid footing to advance developmental policies.

Boyle gave an unqualified yes, when asked if he was confident about the hosting of elections this year.

He pointed out that the steps being taken will also empower and enable people, in particular the newly appointed Permanent and Deputy Secretaries, to take support proper

governance.

“We want than when an elected government returns they can hit the ground running,” Boyle said.

The PDM after months of silence on the actions of the Interim Administration called for elections to be held on August 1st in February and Leader Derek Taylor maintains that it is past time that the will of the people be expressed.

Taylor at a press conference in February said it is wrong for the Interim Administration to insist that that the milestones are the benchmark for a return to elected power.

According to him, having this decision at the discretion of the United Kingdom’s ministers, while the will of the people is not heeded, is wrong.

Taylor, however, did agree that the efforts made by the Special Investigative Prosecution Team

(SIPT) to hold members of the previous administration accountable is a move that must take its course, stressing that justice must take its course.

Meanwhile, Leader of the PNP Clayton Greene spoke out against the Interim Administration last week when the Attorney General (AG) moved to seize the party’s headquarters over a trespass claim.

Greene said this latest attempt by the Governor to rid the PNP of its party headquarters is yet another blow to democracy.

He contends that The Governor is determined to destroy the PNP that he will see the Party’s Headquarters, which stands as one of the symbols of our democracy as much as Parliament does, bulldozed before he allows the people of this country to express a real choice at the next elections.

However, as the Interim Administration continues to find ill-favour with many sections of the TCI society, it maintains that the measures in place will put the country on track.

Some of these social activists have admitted their appreciation for the Brits assistance in stepping in to right the wrongs of the past government, but the consensus is that the Interim Administration’s time is up and should allow a return to elected governance.

Governor Ric Todd has stated time and time again that a return to democracy is the ultimate aim of the Administration, adding recently that significant progress has been made with the milestones, some almost met, and once these goals are achieve TCI will have a return to democracy.

Todd maintains that the ability of the Interim Administration to

Acting Governor and TCIG’s CEO Patrick Boyle

effectively govern depends on the cooperation of the people.

At the recent National Leadership Conference, the Governor pointed out that elections are only the start and what it is, is an opportunity for local leaders to present themselves to the people and address their concerns.

He said that leadership is both a challenge and about being challenged, and called for the people to question their leaders; ask them how and where and in what say, demand that the problems of the nation will be discussed, if the country is to move forward successfully.

$7.8M paid out to 400 civil servants to date – Last worker leave this week

By Vanessa Narine Some $7.8M has been paid out to approximately 400 civil servants who opted for the voluntary severance package, the last of the workers having ended their term of employment with the Turks and Caicos Government (TCIG) this week.

Acting Governor and TCIG’s CEO, Patrick Boyle, made this disclosure on Wednesday, adding

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 Samantha Dash-Rigby – Court Cord Garrido-Lowe – Graphics/Production Editor Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams – Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com (Talk Back) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

that some 134 persons’ requests have been declined, owing to the fact that their skills were too valuable to let go.

Boyle indicated that these figures are initial numbers coming out of the Ministry of Finance, adding that the final figures will be made available next week.

He pointed out that amount paid out so far average at $19,000, with the lowest amount being $13,000 and the highest being $194,000.

The Acting Governor noted that many taking the severance package have indicated to him that they will either be furthering their education or starting up new small businesses.

“The people who have gone off were ready to go and do different things,” he said.

With the majority of the civil servants gone this week, it is expected that by the end the financial year the numbers in the civil services will to drop to between 1,800 and 1,900 from 2,300.

NEXT STEP The Acting Governor noted that the next step now is to move ahead to looking at the organizational structures of the five new ministries, to address the gap left by 400 civil servants to ensure that the delivery of services to the public is efficient.

According to him, contingency arrangements are in place to ensure that the delivery of services continue without interruption.

“There is clearly much work to do,” he said.

Boyle stressed the importance of getting the organizational structures right in the interest of developing a good public service.

He expressed confidence in the five new Permanent and Deputy Secretaries to get the job done, pointing out that they are TC Islanders who have worked in the civil service for years and are dedicated to serving their country.

Boyle stated that the technical work to assist the new officials in strengthening their ministries has been done and noted that in going forward from this position of strength

will contribute to the country’s fiscal stability.

Some 700 expressions of interest were made and 500 applications filed for the severance package and Boyle admitted that the scheme was oversubscribed as the number of applications exceeded the expectation.

The campaign to reduce the civil service was a cost cutting measures resorted to by the Interim Administration in order to balance the budget – a major milestone that would see fresh elections staged.

Boyle maintains that TCI’s unique circumstances have demanded a particular approach that meets its needs, rather than going the route of a reform model.

Tourist killed in boat accident

Tourist, Mark Wiley Lane, 44, of New York, USA, died after being struck by a boat in Provo over the weekend.

Lane was rushed to hospital by ambulance following the incident, which happened in the sea off the beach opposite the Windsong Resort at about 3.30pm on Saturday (March 24).

He suffered multiple injuries and was pronounced dead by doctors at 4.50pm.

A major investigation has been launched involving officers from CID, the Marine Branch and officials from Department

of Environmental and Coastal Resources (DECR).

The Turks & Caicos Hotel & Tourism Association (TCHTA), has since, issued a statement expressing their sympathy to the family of the visitor.

The statement added that members of TCHTA are providing assistance to the family where possible during this time.

Upon completion of the Police investigation, TCHTA, the Government and the Police are expected to meet and discuss ways to reduce such incidences from happening in the future.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

UK Group upbeat about elections – reports fruitful discussion on regulations for elections in 2012

By Vanessa Narine The four-man Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) contingent ended their stay in the Turks and Caicos on Friday and speaking to the Weekly News, the group contends that political stakeholders’ openness to discussion is encouraging.

The team reported that the discussions by politicians on the elections regulations in particular augur well for the hosting of elections this year.

The WFD met with Turks and Caicos Islands’ politicians, party officials and public servants to continue their assistance in helping the people of the islands strengthen their own democratic institutions.

This is the second WFD trip to the TCI and the meetings held this week built on their previous visit in October last year.

The group included John Spellar MP, who was part of the first WFD delegation in October, Conservative MP Andrew Percy and two senior UK political party officials, Liberal Democrat Councilor Keith House and Scott Martin, a Scottish National Party lawyer.

Spellar said, “We have managed to make much progress with them

regarding the regulations for the conduct for elections…we hope the discussions will be able to enable the hosting of elections before the end of the year.”

He noted that the WFD is encouraged by the willingness of stakeholders to be a part of the process to ensure that elections are properly staged and set the pace for the future government.

Spellar, who before entering Parliament John was a National Officer for the Electrical, Electronic, Telecommunications and Plumbing Union, added that it is hard to say if the political parties are better placed than they were during his last visit as it relates to their preparedness for elections.

“What they are able to do right now is comment on the prepared documents that concern the conduct of elections,” he said.

According to him, there has been much attention placed on the details, rather than generalities, of getting the process conducted in the right manner.

“The parties clearly want to get back to democratic rule and back to running their own affairs,” Spellar said.

He stated that the key message that the WFD wants to leave with,

not only with the politicians, but also with the TCI people is that proper regulation enables elections to be conducted properly and good government to continue after.

His colleague, House noted that one can look forward with optimism because the local political stakeholders are engaging each other.

He said, “They are talking to each other…when people can sit down and have consultations they usually come out of it finding the best way forward.”

House said the contributions made by each stakeholder to support this eventuality were encouraging, made in a “good- natured and positive” way.

House has extensive experience supporting emerging democracies, assisting the development of political parties in Eastern Europe and as an international election observer in seven republics of the former Soviet Union from Belarus to Tajikistan. He has also trained political parties and assisted in developing democracy projects in Kosovo, South Africa and DR Congo.

“They were able to articulate well their views on several issues and make constructive recommendations,” the MP said.

REGULATIONS House stressed that a major point coming across from the political parties was the need for regulations to reflect the Caribbean dynamic and take into consideration particularly that campaigns are run in a very different manner to the way they are in the United Kingdom.

“What came across was that the regulations surrounding the hosting of elections should feature life in the Turks and Caicos…the responses we got were valuable,” he said.

House urged that it is important for dialogue to continue among political stakeholders.

He said, “This is about trying to establish a positive set of elections that is in keeping with international standards of transparency, which is in the interest of the parties and the people of the islands.”

Martin agreed with House and pointed out that the recommendations made by stakeholders will serve well as feedback into the final recommendations made by the WFD, particularly as it relates to informing legislations regarding the conduct of elections.

Currently in the TCI, the revised Turks and Caicos Islands Elections Ordinance is an update of the existence ordinance that includes the electoral process for the new all Island Candidates and further seeks to modernize the process of operating elections in the future.

A separate Ordinance will also be introduced which will include the conduct and activities of Political

Parties and Candidates during election campaigns.

Martin regularly contributes to the statutory process on election law through briefings to MPs and MSPs and submissions to consultations run by the Electoral Commission and Governments on electoral legislation. He is also very familiar with the UK legislation, which forms the basis for the proposed TCI election ordinance and how it works in practice.

“There were strong comments on changes to the Elections Ordinance and the Conduct Ordinance,” he said.

Suggested amendments to the Ordinances are expected to be fed back to the Governor’s office and the Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) by the WFD as the TCI moves forward.

Martin added that the WFD will remain in contact with stakeholders as the country moves closer to staging national elections.

Percy agreed that there was a keen sense of urgency among stakeholders for a return to democratic rule.

In Parliament, he serves on the Regulatory Reform Committee and takes a keen interest in many policy areas including, Education, Foreign Affairs, Local Government and Constitutional issues.

The key work of the WFD is to strengthen Parliamentary democracy, and help to develop political parties, local governance and civic participation.

Firefighters have agreed to move to the TCIAA, Boyle Firefighters at the Provo and Grand Turk airports have agreed to be transferred to the Turks and Caicos Airport Authority (TCIAA), according to Acting Governor and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), Mr. Patrick Boyle.

Boyle made these remarks during his appearance on Robert Hall’s radio programme ‘Expressions’ on Wednesday.

Boyle had made it clear than their transfer would be an eventuality and along with a team was engaged in talks with the firefighters over the past weeks.

He added that steps have been taken and TCI is now in a position where strikes at the airports will not be something the Island has to deal

with in the future.

Two weeks ago the firefighters called a wildcat strike, which stalled flights and cost an estimated $5M, not taking into account the reputational damage done by having stranded tourists vent their understandable frustrations in viral messages that went around the world in an instant.

The Acting Governor stressed that the firefighters have seen the advantages of being managed under the TCIAA. Boyle maintained that the transfer is essential for many reasons, primary of which is capital investment in their equipment and infrastructure.

He explained that the benefits in moving over to the TCIAAA were greater in terms of facilities and training, as well as other

opportunities.

The transfer, he noted, would have guaranteed their continuity of service and preserved their terms and conditions, and allowed more coherent management at the airport – none of their benefits would have changed.

Boyle reiterated that severance, as was one of the demands made during the strike, could not have been paid since severance was compensation for someone who was put out of a job.

“This is a transfer,” he said.

According to him, the firefighters would be managed directly managed by the Airport Authority and be part of the airport team, as is the case with most modern airports.

Under the terms of the transfer,

Acting Governor Patrick Boyle, seated right, maintained that the transfer is essential for many reasons, primary of which is capital investment in their equipment and infrastructure.

the TCIG would have given the TCIAA $500,000 for improvements

at the family islands airports, such as South Caicos and Salt Cay.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Mike Misick seeking politica asylum Within hours of Interpol issuing a “Red Notice” alert for Mike Misick’s arrest last week, the former Premier announced that he had sought political asylum in an unnamed country. Was this a smart move by the former Premier, or is it more politically astute for him to come home and argue his cause among fellow political colleagues?

Nab Mike quickly

I do not know why a country would grant him Political asylum, unless they did not do a back check on him. Political asylum is only for when you are being sought after to be killed, not because you are a crook. However, I just wish they would hurry and nab him, because Lord knows the people of this county cannot pay anymore of his debts (tax).

Man up Mike

The Governor targeting him at this time only stemmed for the fact that Misick took him up for cursing on live radio.

However, I long felt that Misick as the Captain of the ship should have faced the music with the rest of his cabinet rather than abandoning them and the country to fend for ourselves.

If they are innocent it will be proven so, but he should be a man and answer to his charges.

Hide if you’re guilty

Anyone who runs and hides must feel he is guilty.

The argument he makes that the “system” is

slanted against them does not compute because he had all the input in the 2006 constitution, which is what was used to put the Direct Rule Government in place.

He just did not plan on the three-man opposition and the Foreign Affairs Committee, all the complaints by the population going to the FAC. The Commission of Inquiry Robin Auld and Alex Milne slam-dunked him and he is just hiding out.

He is our version of Baby Doc in exile, selfimposed.

Why not hide in the USA? The answer is obvious he can no longer visit his children, mistress and go to another Obama affair, which he attended so very long ago without being arrested there.

From his cave somewhere in the Spanish speaking world he will tell Hilly and son, Royal and son, and the rest of his cronies what to do to overcome the ancient ones, Lou, Harts, Derek and the rest of the senior league.

Bring your fight home

The former premier should do the honourable

thing and stand by his colleagues who have stayed in the TCI to face the SIPT. Mike has been vocal in saying that he has no apology to make for what he called “empowering Islanders” so he should not hide behind political asylum.

In his last statement reported widely in the press he stated empathically that he proud of what he and his colleagues in the PNP accomplished in their years as government so the least he could do is stand with the same colleagues.

Mike was quick to outline the number of advances made under the last administration, such as the fact that the GDP moved from $200M to over $750M when he left office, that and that his administration built schools, parks a national stadium, the Gus Lightbourne auditorium, Horse Stable Beach Park, Built the Children’s Park in the Bight, Community Centers in Providenciales and South Caicos, among other projects.

However, he will not acknowledge that during his tenure he used the national treasury as his personal piggy bank.

Mike hides behind the inherent racial divide between locals and the British when he says that there was a Commission of Inquiry because a few white expatriates disliked the policy of making Turks and Caicos Islanders rich.

Harnessing the sympathy of Islanders by saying that the “white people” have no problem once they benefit from improper governance, does not diminish the fact that there was poor governance by his administration.

The Islanders, one would hope, do not have short memories and remember the unfairness of Mike Misick’s administration.

That point acknowledged does not mean one endorses the actions taken by the Interim Administration, since not all the moves made by the current administration have been made via the best approach.

The Brits’ downfall in these islands is that, while they have stepped in to curb the wrongs of Misick’s administration, they have forced a high handed approach to getting things done one too many times and the people genuinely feel that their voices are not being heard, that their opinions do not matter and that the ‘consultation’ being held are largely for show.

If one is to stand for something it ought to be something worth standing up for and that is the truth and the truth is clear; Mike should return to the TCI and stand with his colleagues and if his fight is for truly the people of TCI then he should bring his fight home.

Be accountable

Something is not right in this picture.

On one hand Mike is saying that he will not depart from his quest to see and independent Turks and Caicos Islands and on the other he is absent from the fight his colleagues have stayed to wage.

Mike should have stayed and be accountable to the TCI people, rather than running to stay above the local law.

He should have argued his cause if he has nothing to hide.

It is clear why he feels the need to run. He fears prosecution because he is more likely to be found guilty.

 Become a contributor Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it?

Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com

Consultative Forum will not ‘rubber stamp’ budget – Lillian Missick LILLIAN Missick has kicked back at critics who say that the Consultative Forum is being used to simply approve of this year’s budget.

The forum chair revealed that there had been “considerable outrage” following the government’s release of the budget timetable last week.

The list of dates had led to some thinking that the group were not being given sufficient time to assess the documents.

But this week Ms Missick stressed that the forum had a full two weeks to review the budget for financial year 2012/13 and would do so thoroughly.

During the latest forum meeting the chair said the general impression is that the UK intends to use the group as nothing more than a “rubber stamp”.

“This impression is understandable of course. But it is mistaken.

“Because a plain reading of this timetable clearly shows that even though the budget will be submitted on May 7, the forum will have until May 21 to approve it.

“That gives this body a full two weeks to

engage in a line-item review and debate of this budget.

“I have no doubt, especially given the controversy surrounding last year’s timetable, that members will be very keen to voice any disagreement they have with any of its provisions.

“And I am equally certain that all disagreements will be duly reconciled notwithstanding prior approval by UK ministers.”

Ms Missick revealed that she has secured written assurances from the CEO/Acting Governor that the forum will have the more substantive role.

“Of course, only time will tell. But I want to assure the public that this body will do all within its power to ensure that our budget promotes our sustainable economic development.

“Even if this means boycotting the budget approval process to prevent the British from making us indentured servants to debt payments in perpetuity.”

Hugh McGarel-Groves, TCI Government’s

chief financial officer, responded to Ms Missick’s statement this week.

He said: “I very much welcome the contribution of the Consultative Forum to this discussion of the role of the Advisory Council and Consultative Forum in signing off the next TCIG budget.

“TCIG is currently engaged in a process with the Permanent Secretaries and their teams to map out their budgetary requirements for next year, taking into account the effect of the on-going reforms of the civil service, for example.

“This will shortly lead to a draft budget that requires the approval of UK Ministers, the Advisory Council and Consultative Forum.”

He revealed that UK ministers have requested an involvement in the earlier framework setting stage of the budget process, where total levels of revenue and expenditure will be set.

This will lead to the determination of net surplus available to fund the capital programme and the proposed fund for loan repayment.

Lillian Missick

“They will not be directly involved in the subsequent review and finalisation of detailed revenue and expenditure components, which is rightly the crucial role of the Advisory Council and Consultative Forum during the middle part of May,” he added.

“Given the challenges faced by TCI, and the importance of this budget, it is clearly wrong to describe this vital national contribution as ‘nothing more than a rubber stamp’.”

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Solid waste management contract inked – Momentum of first phase self sustaining, TCEM President

By Vanessa Narine Government, last week, inked a new solid waste management contract with the Turks and Caicos Environmental Management, Ltd. (TCEM) – an important environmental initiative that aims to clean up the waste disposal sites on Providenciales and Grand Turk.

And TCEM President, Mr. Timothy Hodge, contends that the momentum of the work done in this phase of work will be self-sustaining.

With the signing of the contract, TCEM will also assume management of these facilities using safe and environmentally sensitive practices.

This agreement marks the culmination of an exhaustive procurement and planning process, and the result is a program that will quickly and aggressively address some of the TCI’s greatest environmental and human health challenges and help ensure longterm sustainability.

Specifically, under the agreement, TCEM will:

• Clean the dumps on Providenciales and Grand Turk - extinguishing fires; compacting and covering the existing waste on the sites in order to minimize odor, windblown litter and dust; installing security, fencing, weigh scales and control mechanisms; and general aesthetic improvement of the sites.

• Take on day to day management of the sites using internationally recognized solid waste handling practices to minimize the odor, litter and visual impacts of the facilities and control potential human health threats associated with scavengers, landfill runoff

water, dust, smoke and vermin; and • Provide safe, secure professionally managed disposal sites for Providenciales and Grand Turk.

Hodge told the Weekly News that the project is a scaled down version of the initial project aimed at the management of solid waste on the TCI Islands.

CRITICAL STEP “I believe there were budget issues that caused the project to be scaled down, but this in itself is a critical step, a fundamental phase to ensure that there is a proper management of solid waste in TCI,” TCEM’s President said.

According to him, he expects that as funds become available and the Government is able, TCEM will put in bids to advance work in the area of solid waste management.

He said, “It will be easy for us to offer additional services once we have this first phase completed…we are confident that we will be able to put in a competitive bid once there is an opening for the additional work to be done.”

Hodge added that the contract allocates six months for completion of works, but noted that he is confident that work can be completed within three or four months.

Work on the two sites begin on Monday.

TCEM’s President admitted that the illegal settlers near the dumps will be a challenge, but pointed out that the TCIG is working to have persons near the site removed.

“With the government doing their part we will also be burying the garbage six feet down so we will have less scavengers at the site…

Mrs. Knowls, Mr. Boyle, CEO of TCEM - Mr. Timothy Hodge, Mrs. Campbell and Mr. Watts

as it relates to access, there will be no unauthorized access to the site,” Hodge said.

He stated that the area will be gated to restrict access and when the gate closes at the end of the day there will be drop off boxes to facilitate the public wanting to dump garbage.

“What we are doing is that critical first step for proper solid waste management…this will go a long way in management for the long term,” Hodge said.

PUBLIC EDUCATION The TCEM President also noted that his company will be resuscitating its public education campaign started two years ago.

“Two years ago we visited all the schools on the Island and made presentations on the environment,

water management and recycling among other things,” he said.

Hodge said this time round more school visits will be scheduled, as well as a Highway programme will be launched to keep the highways clean.

He said, “We will also focus on an anti-littering campaign and do an outreach to the businesses, including the Chamber of Commerce and the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA).”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Judith Campbell, at the signing of the contract said, “This is a major achievement for the Government and critical for the protection of human health and the environment.

“This was clearly an unhealthy

situation and if one person is prevented from carbon monoxide poisoning and cancer from dump pollutants, then the investment in this project is well worth it.

The Ministry of Health expresses sincere appreciation to staff of the Environmental Health Department, the Engineering Supervisor and the Deputy Attorney General for making this project a reality.”

Campbell maintains that the Government, in partnership with TCEM, remains committed to the long-term public and environmental health of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The contract signed represents a significant investment in the sustainable development of our nation by ensuring that solid waste is managed properly for years to come.

Citizens must register for elections – Belonger Card to be introduced OVER the next few months TCI citizens are invited to register for a new card which will give them the opportunity to vote in the upcoming elections.

The extensive programme was announced by the Ministry of Border Control and Labour and the Electoral Office on Monday.

As well as providing voting rights, the card will also allow Belongers to verify their status.

The exercise, to be conducted on all islands, begins on April 9 and runs until June 30.

Over this period Belongers over 18 years who wish to vote will be issued with a Belonger (Turks and

Caicos Islands Status) Card.

Under a proposed amendment to the Immigration Ordinance, this will be accepted as sufficient proof of Belonger (Islander) status for the purposes of the upcoming elections.

The card will then become available to Belongers under 18 following this initial exercise.

Clara Gardiner, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Border Control, said: “Registration stations will be set up over the three month period on all the islands and persons wishing to be registered will be invited to complete application forms which will be made available online and at designated locations

throughout the islands.

“Applicants will also be required to provide supporting documents, including birth and marriage certificates.”

The Immigration Ordinance currently provides for a person to qualify for Belonger status through a number of means.

They include birth, descent or adoption, grant as the spouse of a Belonger, living together, who has been married to the Belonger for at least five years or bestowal in recognition of an outstanding contribution to the economic and social development of the islands (this provision was suspended in 2009).

Currently however, only those who are granted Belonger status

via marriage or bestowal have a certificate confirming their status.

There is no previous statutory provision for those who acquire the status by birth, descent or adoption to be given a confirmation document.

The Immigration Department has tried to address this issue in the past by providing a Belonger stamp in a BOTC or national passport, or a letter from the Director or Deputy Director of Immigration, but these have raised security and integrity concerns.

The Belonger Card to be issued in the upcoming exercise will provide security features similar to those of the current NHIP Card including a magnetic strip, a bar code and a photograph.

An information paper will also

be provided to assist residents with determining their status prior to attending the stations for registration.

To be entitled to vote you must be lawfully registered as an elector on the date of the commencement of the 2012 constitution or on the qualifying date for elections.

To be registered you must be at least 18, be resident in the TCI for not less than 12 months, be a member of Her Majesty’s Forces, a person working abroad on Government business or a student abroad in such circumstances as may be prescribed

by Ordinance, and be a Turks and Caicos Islander.

It is an offence to make a false statement or to submit a document which is false or which has been unlawfully altered.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

NATIONAL

Organizing Committee urged Filipinos to be counted

From left, Stacey Cox, Road Safety Office Lewell Taylor and Managing Partner of Executive Tours James Misick

Local tourism takes another blow

By Vanessa Narine

Local tourism took another blow this week when a misunderstanding between local cab operators and Executive Tours escalated and saw the cab divers blocking the entrances and exits at the Gansevoort, much to the chagrin of the tourists scheduled to leave that day.

Reports are that around 9:30hours on Tuesday the Executive Tours vehicle turned up to the Gansevoort to transport a group of tourist to the airport, when the cab drivers objected and along with a vocal local stirred up the commotion at the hotel.

Gansevoort staffers were also verbally assaulted as the unpleasant scene played out.

Speaking to the Managing Partner of Executive Tours, Mr. James Misick, he explained that his company was contacted in October last year to service the group as their carrier, since the group wanted to be moved around together.

According to him, his company

accepted the job, but insisted that the cab drivers at the Provo airport be allowed to handle the transportation of the tourists from the airport to the hotel.

He said, “What we were trying to do was level the playing field so that everyone could have a chance to earn something.”

Misick stressed that Executive Tours were in their right to operate under the laws of TCI. “The Ordinance is clear…the big busses are not allowed at the airport unless it is to service a group of over 20 persons travelling on the same itinerary,” he said.

President of Taxi Drivers Association, Mr. Toussaint Capron, told the Weekly News his understanding of the Ordinance is that this only applies if the large group arrived on a “non-scheduled” flight.

The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association Executive Stacy Cox, adding her bit on the matter, maintained that Executive

Tours were in their right according to the law.

She noted that the incident was most unfortunate as the large group had only good things to say about their stay in the TCI. “These were people who spoke highly of TCI as a destination after staying here over a few days and then in their last hours have that impression tarnished by such an incident,” Cox said.

According to her, decisions relating to further action being taken against those who blocked the entrance and exits of the Gansevoort will be up to the owners of the property.

“Once a formal complaint is launched we will work with the Traffic Department to press any further action,” Cox said.

She agreed that this misunderstanding comes at a bad time, following on the heels of the wildcat strike at the airport, which inconvenienced many tourists and left a bad impression of the TCI as an ideal destination on many.

ATM users warned after foiled armed robbery Head of RTCI Police CID, Inspector Grantley Williams has issued a warning to general public, on the use of ATM machines in the night, following a foiled armed robbery on Tuesday night.

Detectives are hunting three men following an attempted armed robbery in Provo.

Reports are that a customer withdrew cash from the ATM at the Royal Bank of Canada in Leeward Highway, just after 9.30pm. Upon leaving he heard someone shout to him in Creole ‘hey man come here’.

He looked over and saw three dark skinned men standing in the bushes by the car park. The one who shouted was dressed in a red shirt, black jeans and was wearing a hat.

The other two were dressed in all black with masks over their faces.

They all appeared to be holding

weapons, possibly cutlasses.

The terrified customer ran to his car and drove away from the area at speed.

Head of RTCI Police CID, Inspector Grantley Williams, said, “This was obviously a very frightening ordeal for the victim and I’d urge anyone with information to contact us right away.

“It is unclear as to where the three men went afterwards but we would like to hear from anyone who may have seen these men acting suspiciously in the vacinity of the Royal Canada Bank last night.”

“Our advice to people is always be aware of your surroundings and, if at all possible, do not go to ATMs on your own”, he added. “This is particularly so at night time but the same advice applies at all times of

the day.

“When you use a machine, make sure nobody is watching you and always be sure to conceal your PIN at all times. As soon as you have completed your transaction, ensure that you put your money and card in a safe place and return to your vehicle straight away.

“My other main tip would be to use less isolated ATM locations at night. Places like the supermarkets where there are lots of people and security patrols on duty.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact 911 or Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477. Tips can also be left in English, French or Spanish at www. crimestoppers.tc or by becoming a friend of Crimestoppers TCI on Facebook.

Crime prevention tips can be found at www.tcipoice.tc

Members of the local Filipino community have until Sunday to submit their information to the Chair of the Filipino Organizing Committee, Mr. Erwin Panga, who told the Weekly News that this will inform a count of the Filipino nationals here.

According to Panga, this count follows the visit by the Filipino Labour Attaché Luzviminda Padilla and her team in February.

“Our Congress, through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Embassy in Washington, is requiring us to submit statistics of the Filipinos working and residing here in TCI,” he said.

Panga noted that he has an initial list of 1,787 names coming from the TCI labor office, but these names are still subject to verification.

He said, “The reason why we are running this is to primarily have every Filipinos in the island be counted in and have their names

listed and submitted to our Embassy in Washington for full recognition in case assistance is sought. Second, this will also allow the Filipino Community in TCI to determine its strength in the island and classify each stature where help and support can easily be passed on.”

Panga maintained that this count will allow the Organizing Community to build a better organization by knowing its population and recognizing each individual status.

According to him, the information being asked for included name, gender, number of children/ dependents living on island, address, job classification and residency classification.

“There are no forms to be filled out, we just need an email that gives the information we asked for,” he said.

Panga urged that all Filipinos to participate in the island-wide count and submit their information to the email address e_panga@yahoo.com.

TCIG looking to address health benefits of unemployed, Boyle With the local economy seeing tougher times there are many on the unemployment list who have lost their health benefits, since National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) only provides coverage for a certain number of weeks after one is out of employment.

Acting Governor and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), Mr. Patrick Boyle, acknowledged this problem.

However, other than saying that a TCIG team are looking at the issue, Boyle could not shed light of any substantive measure being taken.

Boyle noted that officials are aware of the matter and are looking to address this in the near future.

According to the Public statement on the health care funding challenge in October last year, during the fiscal year 2010/11, the NHIP collected approximately $19M in contributions and was paid $13M from the TCIG for a total income of $32M. This, reportedly, left a shortfall of $4M against payments to Interhealth Canada Limited (ICL) of $24M and to Overseas/Pharmacy/ Local practitioners of $12 million.

The shortfall was reportedly exacerbated by the increased number of Wards of the State, those individuals who are unemployed, on long-term disability, prisoners or pensioners.

This the report said was a direct reflection of the depressed economy

Disclosure of SIPT leaked documents contempt of court – Punishable with imprisonment The disclosure of documents leaked from the Special Investigations Prosecution Team (SIPT) is a contempt of court that is punishable with imprisonment.

This is according to Attorney General (AG) Huw Shepheard, who made it clear that these documents SIPT’s ongoing criminal investigation, with a view to their being used as evidence in legal proceedings.

“These papers are covered by legal professional privilege and, in addition, by the law of contempt of court. The disclosure of this material to persons not involved in the litigation for which they were prepared is a contempt of court punishable with imprisonment,” Shepheard said.

Sections of the local media have made public the contents of the

controversial 26-page document.

The AG said, “If the disclosure or any publication was made with the intention of frightening or intimidating the witness whose statement is disclosed or published, the offence of attempting to pervert the course of justice may also have been committed. This is also punishable with imprisonment.”

According to Shepheard, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police have been asked to investigate the leak.

“If sufficient admissible and credible evidence is obtained to identify the persons who have disseminated these documents, I will bring proceedings against them with a view to their being imprisoned,” the AG said.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

9

NATIONAL

We are closer to general elections - PDM

PDM Leader Derek Taylor is confident that “we are closer to general elections in the TCI than we were yesterday”.

He made this statement at a press conference just hours after his meeting with a visiting group of political representatives from the three main political parties in the United Kingdom.

The delegation consisted of representatives from the Labour Party, the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrat Party.

Their visit to the TCI was arranged by the influential Westminster Foundation for Democracy through the Governor’s office.

Taylor is optimistic that elections will be held sometime in early August as plans are already in place for voters’ registration to begin in the next few days.

At the end of this process, persons will be issued a TCI national identification card that can be used to vote. It will also serve as a form of identification instead of toting around a passport or birth certificate.

Doug Parnell, Deputy Leader of the PDM is also optimistic that general elections will be held on

August 1 this year.

He said: “We believe that elected politicians will always have a better appreciation for a return to democracy than FCO civil servants and advisors.

“And I think that we can say today that there seemingly is a better appreciation from the delegation who are MPs themselves.

“They have a better appreciation for what we yearn to do,” Parnell stated “which is to represent to people of the TCI and advocate on their behalf.”

This was the group’s second visit to the TCI with a view to drafting and enacting a document that will govern how political parties raise money, spend money leading up to election, how they register in symbols and colours, and all of the financial transactions of the party would engage in, among other things.

Parmell, like Taylor, believes that politicians listen to politicians and they indeed are counting on it.

Because of this understanding, the Deputy Leader reasoned that the visiting group would be more sympathetic to some of the views that the party shared and hoped that

some of their suggestions will be added to the new document.

Members of the PDM met first with the group at the PDM’s headquarters on Wednesday March 28, then again the following day along with members of the PNP. Some of the issues they discussed were financial accountability, political parties and their conduct, public life ordinance along with the draft election ordinance amendment.

“These are the pieces of legislation that will help us to go forward and form part of the milestone in the next election,” he added.

The talks focussed on pieces of legislation and at accountability in terms of financing and who would be able to contribute towards a party and other areas relevant to accountability.

“From a democratic standpoint, we have not only come a long way but we understand what is happening in the twenty-first century and we are able to hold our place like any other party in the world.”

Taylor said that he was delighted to speak to the people because it is important for them to be involved

The PDM is confident that the TCI will return to democracy this year

and know their responsibility.

Not only for this generation but generations unborn in making sure that TCI finds its rightful place in the world.

He continued: “We have to understand that it is the private sector businesses that move an economy and TCI is no different.

“Government facilitates it by creating the right environment by making sure that the right policies are in place and therefore the PDM is ready to move these islands forward,” the leader said.

At the meeting, they also sent a message to the interim administration that the people of the TCI need to be employed.

“The right sizing and downsizing is hurting our people and it is one thing to seal a pact for a few dollars but another thing when tomorrow you are unemployed and incapable of catering for your family,” Taylor stated.

Despite the buoyancy and promise of return to democracy this year, the PDM leader admitted that it was a challenging process.

& CrimeCourt

Fortis toughens up on persons in arrears FORTIS TCI, formerly PPC, recently moved to the Providenciales Magistrates’ Court in an attempt to recover monies outstanding from non-paying consumers.

Collection Specialist Mrs Tumbalena Carter appeared on behalf of the power company and secured separately, a commitment warrant and two judgments against three persons.

James Handfield, Shane Hawkins and Lofton Morley were told by

Magistrate Hatmin Jolyon to pay up when he entered judgments against them.

A commitment warrant will be issued for Handfield if he does not pay $6,017 in full by April 20.

A second judgment was entered against Hawkins who was ordered to pay $1,932.86 by June 29.

Meanwhile, Morley who owes a whopping $10,157 has to pay $500 per month beginning March 30 until the debt is paid in full.

New director of corporate services for RTCI police POLICE spokesman special constable Paul Baker has confirmed that a new Director of Corporate Services for the TCI police force has been appointed.

The new recruit, Peter Davis, will take up the position early next month, Baker said in a recent press release.

Davis, brings a wealth of experience to the role, including previous postings in the Caribbean, and RTCI Police Commissioner Colin Farquhar is delighted with the appointment.

Teenager charged with five adults in huge drugs bust FOUR adults and a teenage schoolgirl were all granted bail in the Providenciales Magistrates’ Court this week after they appeared on nine drug charges.

Marielle Noel Bien Aime, Ronald Dorilus, William Noel and Alex along with the schoolgirl faced Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner on Monday March 26.

They were charged with possession of cannabis and cocaine.

The prosecution also alleged that they intended to supply the illegal substances to others.

The court heard that police ranks found the drugs in three different places throughout the dwelling.

One set was found in a red Winnie the Pooh bag under the bed in the bedroom, another set in a black bag in a passageway to the bathroom and a third set between two bricks close to some cooking oil bottles.

The offences were allegedly committed on June 5, 2011 and September 5, 20112 at the Bight.

The drugs amounted to over four kilos of cannabis with a street value

of $42,700 and 290 grams of cocaine.

For the prosecution Leanna Brooks requested that the matters be sent for trial in the Supreme Court since the magistrate’s court does not have sufficient sentencing power for the amount of drugs.

A fifth adult, Bradley Theodore appeared in court the following day in the same matters and was also granted bail.

They will all attend the Supreme Court on June 1 for a sufficiency hearing.

Commissioner Farquhar said: “We are delighted to welcome Peter Davis. His appointment comes following an extensive recruitment process and his credentials and experience will prove a huge asset to the service.

He described Davis’ background as “highly impressive” and assures that his extensive corporate, business and police investigative experience in both the Caribbean and the UK will be a great asset to the local police force.

“This is yet another clear indication of the positive steps being taken to ensure an efficient, productive and highly effective police service here in the TCI,” Commissioner Farquhar added.

Davis, 54-years-old, holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, is the former business manager for the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS).

He also served as a Detective Superintendent and Senior Investigating Officer for homicides and major crime in the Royal St Lucia Police Force.

An ex-British Criminal Investigations Division Detective Chief Inspector and Senior Investigating Officer, he has also

Director of Corporate Services for the RTCI police Peter Davis

worked for the UK Department for Business.

Davis, who is married with two grown up daughters, boasts an impressive record of achievements during his distinguished career.

In the Cayman Islands, he was responsible for the latest RCIPS corporate strategy and business objectives, and was involved in developing key partnership agreements, budget control, and best value and fiscal control of the service for the Cayman Government.

In St Lucia, he worked on the high-profile murder investigations of Patricia Lee and Laurent Moynaton, and also headed a host of successful major and serious crime investigations teams in the UK. On his appointment, Davis said: “I am pleased to be joining the RTCI Police and look forward to the many challenges that lie ahead.”

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Frequently Asked Questions Changes to the National Health Insurance Plan Ordinance have brought about fruitful meetings and intriguing exchanges with stakeholders of the health care plan, nationwide. The executive team has compiled a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions, (FAQs) which have been addressed during these sessions and which offer an insight and clearer understanding of the changes and how they impact individuals, households and businesses.

In many households, there are two working parents. The NHIB has found parents want to know who is responsible for registering dependents as defined in the Ordinance. While the ultimate decision on which parent will do this is a personal one, we can confirm that only one parent has to register the dependants.

Answer: Only one parent has to register children/dependants. The form can be downloaded from the NHIB website, completed and presented with requisite documents to your employer who will begin deductions for up to three children/dependents per family.

Some people were uncertain about who falls into the category of dependant; we were happy to clarify this question.

Answer: A dependant is your child or children up to 18 years old, and can also be your child or children up to 25 years old who is enrolled full time in tertiary level educational facility, i.e., college. A dependant is also considered an individual whom you have adopted or have legal guardianship to who falls within the above described age perimeters and situations.

The new ordinance says that at least three dependants have to be paid for by a parent, but does this mean your other dependants are not covered in your health plan.

Answer: Once a parent is paying for at least three children/dependants per family, the remaining children/dependents will be covered by the plan. However, all children must be listed on the application in the registration process.

There were a myriad of questions coming from employers who want to better understand their role since the amendments. One FAQ is, “As an employer, am I obligated to also make a co-pay for my employees’ children?”

Answer: No, parents should pay the full amount of $10 each for their own children/ dependants. However, as an employer, you are obligated to make the deduction for payment to the NHIB. The issue of contributors who have multiple jobs is always a headlining issue at this scheduled

meetings at places of employment, therefore it was no surprise when the question popped up.

Question: What if I have a second or third job, do I also pay for my children/dependants again?

Answer: No, as the parent taking on the responsibility to pay, you are required to pay only once at your main employer.

We recognize, at NHIB, that there is always the potential for contributors to find ways to avoid meeting that monthly payment. However, we strongly advise against it and we encourage parents to take the responsibility to ensure children are protected by this generous and affordable health care plan. Remember, unregistered dependants will be charged the full costs of medical care and will not be able to access benefits which come only for contributors to the plan.

Other FAQs are…

Question: I have heard that there is a new minimum monthly contribution to the plan, is this true?

Answer: Yes, this is true. It is now expected that every worker in the country will make a minimum contribution of $50 share; $25 by the employer and $25 by employee.

Question: I am already paying NHIB at one job; do I still have to pay at the other?

Answer: Yes, contributions are due from all jobs that one may have. The contribution rate is 6% per month, shared with 3% by the Employer and 3% by the Employee paid up to an income ceiling of $7,800. The minimum contribution for NHIB is $50 per month. .

Question: What if I am on vacation and away from the TCI, do I still have to make NHIB payments?

Answer: Yes, as long as you remain employed in the Turks and Caicos, you are required to continue payments as usual. In you absence, these would come from your vacation pay.

Question: What happens if I do not register my children/dependants in time?

Answer: Due to the amendments in the ordinance; all children/dependants are required to be registered and a payment of $10 per dependent/child up to three per family is expected. Failing to register your children/ dependants will result in them being medically terminated from the NHIB plan. Parents are encouraged to register children/dependants

immediately.

In this challenging economic climate, there are always questions about how unemployment affects payment and access to the plan. We have found these query to be leading concerns.

Question: If my wife is not working will she be covered by my personal payments to the plan?

Answer: Yes you can pay, but there is a spousal rate for your unemployed wife of $25 per month. As long as you have registered your wife as your spouse, which means you are legally married, (as this rule does not apply to common law marriage) and are paying the requisite $25 per month… your wife, and any spouse (i.e., husband) is covered.

Question: What if I am terminated from job, would I still be covered and expected to pay NHIB? Answer: If you are terminated from your job,. there is provision for coverage to continue up to 90 days. However, one must file unemployment with the Labour Department and the NHIB. The NHIB gives you one month to make it aware of job termination in order for you to qualify.

The Turks and Caicos is also home to a robust ex-patriot labour force, so the NHIB has found many questions coming from the holders of work permits including what do I need to do to ensure I am registered with the NHIB? Answer: All contributing legal work permit holders are covered under the plan. NHIB also advises this category of employees to move quickly to renew work permits long before they expire; 90 days prior to expiration is stated in the ordinance. NHIB is required to only permit legal workers into the plan.

The leading question, which has actually giving the NHIB the opportunity to explain the changes and the plan to employers and their employees is whether we would come in to address concerns? The answer is a resounding, “Yes! The NHIB has been and is prepared to be guests at meetings with companies to spell out and respond to queries on the plan and the recent amendments.

In giving the FAQs and their answers, Zaneta Burton, CEO of the National Health Insurance Board said: “The NHIB is an important partnership between contributors, the government and the public and it will be around for a very long time. The funds contributed keep this private public partnership going and ensures there is quality, accessible, affordable health care for all.”

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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12

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics.

Are we really in the Turks and Caicos Islands?

Dear Editor, This post comes at a request of a concerned citizen who has stated that many efforts were previously put forth to responsible agencies the police and Ministry of Tourism - but to no avail, and in earnest is now very disappointed in the system.

But all is not lost because the mere thoughts and actions of bringing these concerns to the forefront give review.

When arriving in the Turks and Caicos Islands visitors like to see TCI culture at work and most important tourists like to know that they are really in the Turks and Caicos Islands!

At issue is an observation of tourist/visitors asking questions about the country and getting either a cold shoulder of incorrect information.

That is not only damaging to the tourist industry but a disservice to the country.

The very sad part about this is that the person(s) in question were persons in uniform, our police officers.

Most people, be they regular or tourists, when they see someone in uniform always think those persons are in some official capacity, and surely will seek them when in need.

It so happens that those persons were members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police.

But those persons were not information wards and unfortunately were not locals and honestly were mere recruited persons who surely did not know much about the TCI. We cannot fully blame them but we must correct this oversight, and we must correct it as soon as possible. The tourism industry is at risk!

If a person is a representative, he or she should be a local or at minimum sufficiently trained in local country’s culture – artefacts, customs, geography and history.

Without sounding nationalistic, it can be inferred or assumed that in such a small country when tourists approach a person which they think may be knowledgeable of the country the first thing that runs through the person’s mind is that at least the worker who is engaged in the meet and greet areas should know about the country.

So wrong they are but right somewhat and understandably so.

Wrong, because of poor decisions on behalf of the leaders in the service industries – TCIG and employers alike.

Why not engage with real intent?

One would think that locals should

Foolish questions

know about the TCI! So with that false assumption how do we address and correct it?

One of our neighbours, the Bahamas, has a great, well accepted programme ‘Bahamas Host’ that has worked for many, many years.

And with credit and/or recognition given to them why not duplicate it here in the TCI? Then again if something is working and working so well why reinvent the wheel?

I am sure our neighbour will be happy to assist a fellow country! Let us ask them and let them help us.

Upon inception of engagement make it a requirement that all participants be certified in the Turks and Caicos Host Programme.

Give all persons a button or a badge displaying the certification, so that those receiving the responses will be reassured that they are getting the right information.

Contrary to what anyone believes visitors do want to see people of the TCI in responsible and meaningful states in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

They want to feel as if they are really in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Regards, Edward E Smith

Squander people’s money Dear Editor, Mr Carlos Simon QC’s response to the Attorney General’s notice that they will be seeking recovery of the land upon which the PNP headquarters is built is an astute and well considered response that is right on point.

The idea that this regime would even contemplate the destruction of a perfectly good building, when they are paying large sums for

rent for office space throughout Providenciales, and when they are crying broke, exposes their incompetence as proper managers of our economy.

Mr Simons is right to point this out.

It is another example, along with this regime’s grossly exorbitant expenditure on the high flying lifestyle of the SIPT, of how they are willing to squander the people’s

LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS

resources.

The irony in this is that this is the very same charge that Governor Todd and the FCO is so keen to lay against the Misick regime, but it is fine for them to commit statutory theft and to steal and squander the people’s money on a lavish lifestyle.

I applaud Mr Simons!

Peter Forbes

Dear Editor, We are at a time in our country’s history when there is much uncertainty and many of us will no doubt consider migrating to other countries for better opportunities.

In fact, we are all too familiar with migration to another’s country for personal development and opportunities as we in the past we have witnessed many indigenous Turks and Caicos Islanders leave home in search of better lives in the United States and in the Bahamas, particularly Grand Bahama.

One might ask where I’m going with this, well I am trying to educate and in some cases remind us that many of our people are citizens in another country.

I am reminding us of this fact because with all that we are faced with today, we still seek to segregate and to tear apart persons who have gained citizenship in our country.

I sat in disbelief as I listened to the popular talk show Expressions about two weeks ago as callers spoke about Mr Wesley Clerveaux and their disagreement with him being promoted to Permanent Secretary because he is not an indigenous Turks and Caicos Islander.

I know Wesley and his siblings very well as I am a product of South Caicos where his parents migrated many years ago.

In fact, I served as head girl along with his younger brother Mikey the head boy of the Majorie Basden High School graduating class of 1996.

The Clerveaux’s know no other home, they grew up with us, they went to school with us, and then they went away and furthered their education and returned to us to make valuable contributions to the only home they know.

How could anyone dispute their citizenship and their right to apply for and obtain jobs for which they are qualified in this their home, their country of citizenship?

Many of us were not born here, I was not born here but my parents were am I not a citizen because my navel string is not buried here?

Am I not entitled to the rights and privileges that each Turks and Caicos Islander is entitled to?

We need to seriously evaluate our thinking in this country. As a matter of fact, many of our children are American citizens, how would we feel if they were the ones being treated the way we are treating persons who have obtained citizenship in our country?

We cannot grow if we continue to segregate and tear apart our own citizens whether they are citizens by birth, descendants or application.

A citizen is a citizen; there is no separation of citizenship based on how it was obtained.

We cannot develop this country and become a nation with our small minded thinking.

We have become so accustomed to this sense of entitlement that we have become anti foreign even to the point of castrating those who we have given the right to the same entitlements we have.

Can you see how this is nonsensical?

It is like giving a man a business license for a category of business and then saying, you cannot operate that category of business because you do not have the right to do so.

If we had any sense of forward thinking, we would embrace those persons who have obtained citizenship because we will need those very same persons to stand and fight with us against the injustices that we face in this country.

We will need them to share in our vision for this country and to do what is necessary to attain that vision.

We cannot marginalise them when we feel like and then ask for their support when it is convenient to us.

If we have issues with the laws or policies regarding public office / officials then we need to speak intelligently about those issues and make recommendations for changes to be made.

Tearing down an individual is not the solution and it is immature and unnecessary.

Do not think for a minute that I do not have any issues with the laws regarding the issuance of citizenship in this country.

I do and I made my recommendations for changes as I encouraged every Turks and Caicos Islander to.

I would really like to know how many of us actually took the time to think about the issues and make recommendations.

My guess is very few, the real issue in our country is we love to bicker and complain but ask us for solutions and we have none.

We spend all our time complaining instead of thinking.

Let us become a reading and thinking public instead of a country full of side-line complainers with no solutions to offer.

Sheba Wilson

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.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

Letters

A plan for our nation Dear Editor, Nearly a decade has passed since the PNP government came into power and has taken us to extreme heights, resulting in a devastating new low for the TCI. Our country has been tossed to and fro due to this interim administration’s indecisiveness and inadequate governance of our country.

It is with certainty that this nightmare will soon be at its end.

I have decided to take on the challenge of formulating strategies and solutions that will result in a new and improved TCI. Consequently, the more thought is given to this task, the more daunting the reality of out condition truly is.

The first order of business would be to orchestrate a fair and free election.

It is necessary to have an elected government that can truly make wise decisions for the people of this country.

The immediate negotiations with companies and the revitalisation of projects that have been left dormant for the past few years will profoundly affect employment rates.

We must rebuild our financial sector, control, monitor and market our fishing industry.

There must be a reestablishment and management of our agricultural resources.

It is also important to recognise and rebuild our labour department, so that the indigenous people of the Turks and Caicos Islands are given more of an opportunity to gain employment in their own country.

It is my intent to offer my knowledge and dedication to be of

service to this country.

Once nominated by the PDM party as a candidate for the Cheshire Hall (Kew Town) constituency, I will take the necessary avenues to begin the reconstruction process.

I am also convinced that my contributions will be more effectively utilised in the following areas: Education: We must channel out brilliant young minds toward academic excellence so that they can have a competitive edge.

Our scholarship programme needs to be directed to the goal of nation building.

Labour: The Department of Labour needs to be dismantled and rebuilt. Accountability would be foremost to the people of the TCI, most especially the indigenous.

Standardisation: The revision of the gratuity distribution system must be looked at with regard to the standardisation of the service industry.

Ensuring and enforcing the proper succession planning programme is in the place in the entire industry.

The apprentice programme also needs to be re-established. The establishment of a pension fund should also be considered, after working a period of ten years or greater, an employee should have the benefit of setting funds aside for their retirement.

Over the next few months, I will present a more detailed outline on the areas in which I would like to make my contributions.

I offer myself to be of service to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Sincerely, I Oral Selver

Attendees and presenters at the workshop

Teen mothers encouraged to rise above their circumstances Teenage mothers were told that their situation should not be an excuse to stem the progress of their individual development at a one-day workshop hosted by the Gender Affairs Unit (GAU) in collaboration with the Single Parent Support Network (SPSN).

The session, part of International Women’s Day initiative, was aimed at encouraging and empowering the young women and to create an environment conducive to positive growth for both themselves and their children.

The workshop also hopes to reduce the many negative consequences that teenage pregnancy has for the parents, the child, and society as well.

Held a Held Tuesday at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, the theme of the workshop was ‘Tips for Healthy Living and Self -fulfillment (Mind and Body)’.

Deputy Coordinator of the Gender Affairs Unit, Ms. Barbara Handfield said, “It is purpose is in keeping with this year’s Women’s Day themeConnecting Girls, Inspiring Futures and seeks to educate and equip young mothers with parenting skills so they can uplift their status and participate

fully in their development process.”

Handfield emphasized the domino effect that a happy, educated parent has on a child.

“A happy child makes a happy home. A happy home promotes a happy neighborhood. Such a neighborhood affects a community, which in turn inspires a country.

“The gender department also aims to start a teenage mother support group in order to help them find financial independence and continue with their education and not to regress into a depressive state,” Handfield said.

She highlighted that learning facilities like the New Beginnings School, established by the GAU in Providenciales and Grand Turk, are available for pregnant teens and teen mothers to continue their education.

Handfield said, “The GAU also plans to liaison with different companies to help the mothers that are of working age to find a job.”

The sessions included advice and discussions on healthy living for both mother and child, parenting skills, education and personal development, economic empowerment and spiritual fulfillment.

Presentations were made by

speakers including, Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Winsome Fearon, who persisted to motivate and inspire the young women to “make good choices and not let their situation be an excuse to their progress”.

Informative contributions were also made by Gynecologist/ Obstetrician, Dr. Dawn Perry, who educated the young ladies on the different types of birth control available.

Another speaker, Nurse Sinny Ramkellowan, advised on immunization and healthy living practices, while Ms. Carisa Clare addressed her presentation to boosting their self-esteem and SPSN member Mrs. Rebecca Taylor advised on parenting and money skills.

The Single Parent Support Network, which operates as a Non-Governmental Organization, emerged as a by-product of the first Single Parent Workshop held in August 2009.

A similar workshop will be held in Grand Turk in April while a third in its planning stage, promises to involve men as the GAU seeks to create an equal, unbiased TCI and to empower both males and females.

COMMENTARY

Meeting Challenges

No matter what your political persuasion we all have to admit we are facing challenges never before experienced in the TCI. It has become obvious that The British Interim Government does not have the formula to meet the challenges. There is a basic misunderstanding of what provided the to date development of the countries economy.

On the positive side are efforts to recover crown land misappropriated and to reduce the size of the civil service. Crown land recovery will be helpful only in the long term. A smaller civil service will immediately help the budget.

The challenge that has

By David Tapfer not been touched is the NHIP health plan. This plan is not only killing the budget but it has also reduced the level of care.

Everyone visiting the clinics and many visiting the hospitals have negative stories. The only effort applied by the Interim group is

raising the taxes and resident paid costs plus beginning to build clinic buildings. However, health care is dispensed by qualified individuals not buildings. Ask yourself what unqualified individual(s) created this medical mess. Some are in court and others are trying to halt our tourist income.

Recently we had a leadership conference. Of course, this is a good thing but those walking in the doors as novices did not emerge as leaders. Some say leaders are born and some say they are made.

We are all born equal. Our parents, teachers, friends and mentors put us on the road to leadership. We have often seen leaders who are not managers and managers who are not leaders. How

many aspiring leaders in the TCI have ever been faced with meeting a payroll?

Education is important but so is managerial experience.

Before too long we will be facing elections and those chosen will be facing serious challenges.

To evaluate the candidates we need to see their resumes. What have they succeeded at? How well employed have they been. At this point, they need to be managers and leaders but also patriots.

We do not need a large civil service to handle the affairs of this tiny nation. They do need to be well trained. In the opinion of all interfacing with the civil service, prior governments have failed at this task.

The biggest Turks and Caicos owned business is government.

Most of the reoccurring income of the TCI is funneled through the TCIG. That is why all manner of people want to feed at this trough.

Interesting is that the resorts and most people reside in the Caicos Islands yet the money is funneled through Grand Turk. History has caused this situation...the tail wagging the dog.

For the first time in almost 10 years, we have a potential leader who resides in Grand Turk, the other side of the buoy. The country wonders, is he really in charge and will the electorate give him the nod?

14

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

NATIONAL

autism awareness

Protect our children

By Nicole Cox, a mother living with autism

– Department of Social Development ups call for child safety April has been designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Department of Social Development under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Safety is committed to keeping the children of the Turks and Caicos Islands safe, healthy and free from harm.

The Department of Social Development’s Director, Annette Joseph, said, “The department seeks to support all parents, caregivers and children through the various services that are offered to individuals, families and communities through the department’s counseling, parenting classes, anger management sessions, and other support services.”

She stressed that a report must be made when an individual knows or has reasonable cause to believe

or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect, as it is critical to get victims of abuse the help he/she needs.

Joseph said, “Child abuse is real and exists here in the TCI. However, we can make a tremendous difference in the life of an abused child if we take the necessary steps to stop the abuse early.”

Child abuse can take many forms: physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, neglect and abandonment. It leaves lasting scars throughout a child’s life as abuse damages a child’s sense of self and his/her ability to have healthy relationships, to function at home at school or at work.

One can report suspicion of abuse to the nearest Police department or to the Department of Social

Development offices on 9462682 in Grand Turk, 946-4016 in Providenciales, 946-3211 in South Caicos and 946-7149, 946-7375 in North Caicos.

Preventing child abuse is everyone’s responsibility.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child surround the principles that every child needs to be treasured, protected and nurtured.

The Department of Social Development, the Police, the Courts and other child protection agencies of the TCI, in playing their role, investigate reports of abuse and provide services to protect children and strengthen families.

Help break the cycle of abuse, help us to protect the children of TCI!

Fortis employees complete customer service training course Thirty-seven Fortis TCI Ltd. employees are now graduates of an intense Customer Service Programme after participating in a three- day course developed and facilitated by Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity (BIMAP).

The course conducted over the last week set out to enhance customer service skills provided by front line staff and promote successful customer-employee interactions.

Ms. Velma Wiltshire, BIMAP Management Counsellor, explained at the start of the programme that her goal was to transform participants into energetic winners in customer service.

Wiltshire through role playing

showed partakers the effects of positive customer experiences, being an effective listener, having the right motivation and addressing stress management in the workplace, the importance of consistent communication, and practicing excellent customer service every time internally and externally.

She said, “Providing good customer service starts with the employee knowing how to serve their customer’s needs. If you can remember in every interaction that customer is ‘King,’ everyone wins.”

The Utility based in Providenciales expressed very early on that in 2012 they will focus on increasing customer relations and communications, having set a goal to

be the leading company in customer service in the Turks and Caicos Islands by 2013.

Allan Robinson V.P. of Customer and Corporate Services said, “Our strategic destination is to be the best utility in the Caribbean. The delivery of exceptional customer service is a major benchmark in achieving our strategic objective, and a key cornerstone of our Mission Statement. We will settle for nothing less than to be the leader in customer service in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The most recent groups taking part comprised of a cross-section of employees including team members from North and Middle Caicos and AEP Ltd. in South Caicos.

Damaged streetlights in Provo to be restored TCIG and Fortis TCI have reached a new agreement this week that will see the restoration of broken streetlights throughout Providenciales.

This was according to Acting Governor Patrick Boyle who noted also that the new Streetlight Takeover Agreement will consist of a $150,000 capital Contribution in aid of Construction (CIAC) from TCIG. “Switching back on the Providenciales street lights is a real symbol of the improving financial situation of TCIG. We understand how such straightforward things can improve the quality of life for Turks and Caicos Islanders and the tourist visitor experience,” said Patrick Boyle.

Fortis TCI is expected to fund the additional costs and the contract includes the instillation, refurbishment or replacement, and ongoing maintenance of all street lights in the Utility’s service territory.

Boyle said, “As we work towards achieving a financial surplus in financial year 2012/13, resources can be better prioritized into the things that the people of the TCI want money spent on – primary healthcare, schools, roads and causeways.”

The Acting Governor maintained that TCIG feels the repairing of streetlights damaged during Hurricane Ike in 2008 along Chalk Sound, Leeward and Grace Bay is a further indication of the improving

financial situation. It will also address safety concerns of the general public for areas not well lit.

Fortis TCI’s President and CEO, Eddinton Powell, adding his bit, said, “The agreement reached between Government and Fortis TCI is another milestone and will allow for major improvements to public lighting in all areas of our service territory. The benefits to residents, businesses, and to the tourist industry will be significant. Fortis TCI is proud to partner with TCIG on this important project.”

The negotiating teams were led

by Devon Cox, Director of T&D Operations & Engineering at Fortis TCI and Norman Watts for TCIG.

Josiah, aged four

April Showers!

Hey everybody!

Well, Spring has sprung and I am pumped about it!

Since the 1970’s April has been Autism Awareness Month and in specifics April 2 is Autism Awareness DAY! Mark it on your calendars!

Wear some blue! Any shade will do (though a lovely sky blue is the preferred hue!).

Wear blue all month long if you want! If you don’t have enough blue, swing by Flamingo Pharmacy and Unicorn Bookstore (both located in the IGA Supermarket shopping center on Leeward Highway) and pick up an autism awareness bracelet!

It features all the colors of the autism awareness ribbon (red, yellow, blue and teal) and when someone asks why, tell them it’s for autism. If they ask what autism is (and you still are not sure yet) tell them you are just learning yourself.

“How am I going to learn about autism in a month, Nicole?” I hear your doubtful tone and I answer with a resounding, “The Internet!”

Well for those who are interested here are some of my favorite websites for finding the latest information on autism causes, treatments, resources, lifestyles and the like: http://www.autismspeaks.org/ , http:// centerforautism.com/ , http://www.iloveaba.com/ , http://dawnprogram. blogspot.com/ .

We are going to look at these sites over the next few weeks and pull out some important points and chat about them. You do not have to be a clinical physician, behavioral specialist or autism parent to be aware of this disorder.

1 in 70 boys may be on the autism spectrum! So if you think this doesn’t affect you, you are SO mistaken!

If you haven’t yet, you will definitely encounter someone on the spectrum in your lifetime, if not several someones! If not you, then doubtless your children will.

Therefore, this month will be our crash course in getting some basics under our belts and at least on a casual level (if at all autism can be casual) be able to grasp the implications of this challenge in our neurotypical society.

Let’s get drenched in April Showers of Awareness…together!

Environment & District Administration, Maritime Department and DECR merged The Ministry of Environment & District Administration and the Maritime Department have been merged with the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources, according to a statement by the Ministry.

The merger, effective last Friday, will see the Maritime Department Providenciales re-located at the Environmental Centre/Department of Environment and Coastal Resources, (across from the Children’s Park),

Lower Bight Road.

The Maritime Department on the island of Grand Turk has also been re-located to the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources office, upper floor Ruthann Missick’s building, Church Folly Road.

For further information, please contact the Maritime Department Providenciales on #941 5122 or Maritime Department Grand Turk on #946 2801 ext. 41515.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

15

NATIONAL

Health Ministry ups efforts to reduce the spread of TB The Ministry of Health in upping efforts to reduce the spread of Tuberculosis (TB) is encouraging everyone to be empowered with knowledge about TB and to take action.

The Ministry is urging Islanders to adopt several healthy prevention steps, which include: • Eating a balanced diet to provide your body with the nutrients that you need to fight the infection. If you need help, talk with our local Nutritionist free of charge; • Getting enough rest, at least 8 hours per night; • Covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough; • Washing hands frequently; • Taking all of your medications as prescribed by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment if you have been diagnosed with TB; • After coughing, dispose of the soiled tissue in a covered container; • Avoid going to school, church, work or any public gatherings if you have TB as you can spread TB infection; • Avoid spending long periods of time in stuffy, enclosed rooms with anyone who has active TB until that person has been treated for at least 2 weeks; • If you live with someone who has active TB, help and encourage the person to follow treatment instructions; and • If you feel that you may have been in contact with a person who has

TB, visit your healthcare provider and inform them to see if you should be tested as early diagnosis is important.

The Health Ministry’s appeal coincides with this year’s commemoration of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, marked on March 24th, by the World Health Organization (WHO).

This annual event commemorates Dr. Robert Koch’s discovery in 1882 of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes TB. This year’s theme is ‘I am stopping TB in my lifetime’ is inspired by the ambitious new objectives and targets of the Global Plan to Stop TB 2011-2015 and the World Health Organization aims to eliminate TB as a public health problem world-wide by 2050. It seeks to garner and identify people of different ages, living in different countries who also share the hopes of someday ending TB in their lifetimes: Zero deaths from TB, faster treatment, a quick, cheap, low-tech test, an effective vaccine and a world free of TB are all milestones, which will assist in eradicating TB. Tuberculosis (otherwise called “consumption”) has existed for centuries. It is a serious disease that usually attacks the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body.

Today, about one-third of the world’s population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb).

Most people have no symptoms because the bacterium is inactive,

but individuals with symptoms of active TB disease can infect others.

According to the WHO in 2010, there were 8.8 million cases of TB, 1.1 million deaths from TB among HIV-negative people and an additional 0.35 million deaths from HIV-associated TB. Among people infected with the bacteria, those who have weakened immune systems due to other conditions, such as HIV/AIDS and diabetes, are more likely to develop active TB and to die from it. Those with HIV have a greater risk of developing TB and subsequently TB has become the leading cause of death among people with HIV/ AIDS. Even though TB is curable with antibiotics, it continues to be a major health problem that kills almost two million people worldwide every year.

Tuberculosis is spread for the most part through the air, when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, spits or simply breathes around other people, the airborne particles can be inhaled by other people, causing the spread of the disease.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis will settle first in the lungs and if left untreated will eventually progress to other organs of the body, including the brain. Symptoms of TB disease include; a bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer, pain in the chest, coughing up blood or sputum, weakness or fatigue, weight loss, no appetite, chills, fever and sweating at night.

Tougher health checks for migrant workers NON-Belongers will have to undergo much more stringent health checks before being allowed to work in the TCI, the government revealed this week.

From April 2 foreign workers will be forced to have basic blood and radiological tests as well as a physical examination.

The checks, which will be valid for three years, will cost $220 and be the responsibility of the applicant.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services in partnership with the Immigration Department and the National Health Insurance Board is launching the Migrant Health Evaluation Programme (MHEP).

A ministry spokesperson said: “It has long been recognised that there was a need for a more comprehensive health evaluation for persons wishing to work within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“This stems from a need to ensure a healthy migrant work force and also to protect the population of the TCI from various communicable diseases.”

The aim of the MHEP is to screen all applicants for severe chronic illnesses or infectious diseases which may prove costly to the TCI healthcare system and may threaten the health of the resident population.

Similar programmes exist in many countries and it is hoped that this will bring the TCI up to date.

This new programme has been extensively discussed with and reviewed by members of the local medical community.

All individuals seeking to work in TCI from April 2 will need to undergo the checks by any registered physician in the TCI or internationally.

The costs associated with this

health evaluation are approximately $220 for adults and $90 per child under the age of 15.

There may be additional associated costs, if additional tests are required.

Applicants who are found to be medically fit will be issued a Certificate of Good Health (CoGH) by the Ministry of Health via the National Health Insurance Board.

Applicants will be required to pay an administrative fee of $20 to the NHIB upon collection of the CoGH. This CoGH will be valid for a period of three years and there will be no need to repeat these tests annually.

The forms, which will be completed by all examining physicians whether local or from abroad, are available for download on both the NHIB and Immigration Department websites.

this week

Friday, March 30 to Friday, April 6 Friday, March 30

 Danny Buoy’s is Provo’s premier live music and sports destination, serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30am.

It is the perfect place to escape from the heat and hang with friends, all in smoke free air-conditioned comfort.

Happy Hour specials from 4-7pm Monday-Saturday  Get into the weekend mood with the intense and electrifying Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm. Free for fitness members, $12 for non-members.

Visit www.gracewaysports.com for more information or call 442-6349.  Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 9468666 for details

Saturday, March 31  The 4th Annual Fortis TCI walk & run will be held this Saturday March 31st beginning at our headquarters on Leeward Highway.

Warm up will begin at 5:45 am and the walk/run will begin promptly at 6am. The route starts from the Fortis TCI Headquarters leading up Leeward Highway to the Beaches roundabout down through the Lower Bight and Turtle Cove, up Suzie Turn and ending at the Fortis TCI Head Office.

Following the run, breakfast will be served, prizes and awards will be give and a Nintendo Wii Fit will be raffled off for those who take part! The response from the community thus far has been enormous and we look forward to a great early morning healthy experience for all. A nurse station will also be set up for blood sugar and blood pressure testing!  Calling all kids! You are invited to learn the art of kite making and kite flying, plus other traditional toys, at the Kite Making Workshop at Cheshire Hall Plantation, Providenciales on MARCH 31st, Saturday, from 9:00 am to 12 noon.

The workshop will be hosted by the Turks & Caicos National Trust, with local resource persons helping us.

Kids will get the opportunity to make their own kites and later put them to the test within Cheshire Hall premises. Kite making is an enjoyable way for kids to learn about art, science and our culture.

It involves working as a team using different artistic skills and materials.

The workshop is suitable for children between 6 and 12 years old.

Only $10.00 to register. All the required materials will be supplied. For more inquiries, please call 941-5710.

 The Wine Cellar 2nd Annual Golf & Fishing Tournament  The Weekly Community and Farmers’ Market organised by TCI Red Cross is on at the organization’s headquarters, opposite Lime on the Leeward Highway in Providenciales, from 10am to 2pm.

Persons will be able to purchase freshly grown produce and locally sourced items.

For more information on the Weekly Community and Farmers’ Market call (649) 247-8911. With regard to the TCI Red Cross’ services or how you can volunteer or donate, contact our Provo office on (649) 941-8056 or email redcrossprovo@tciway.tc OR for Grand Turk call (649) 946-2761 or Email:tciredcross@tciway.tc  If you’re looking for a serene and relaxed way of starting your weekend, bring your yoga mat at Graceway Sports Centre every Saturday at 9am and let David Bowen lead you into the wonderful world of yoga!

Amazing fees for an amazing class!

More info at 442-6348”  Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at Graceway Sports Centre for mothers and their little ones.

Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake! Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome!

Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

Sunday, April 1

 The Wine Cellar 2nd Annual Golf & Fishing Tournament contines  Rotary Bingo has a new home at CLUB PILLOWS in the Bight next to Smokey’s (Opposite Veranda Resort) EVERY SUNDAY! Doors open at 7:00 pm

Thursday, April 5  Weekly Foreign a Fare night every Thursday at the Bohio Dive Resort (Grand Turk) from 6:30 p.m. Each week different dishes from a different region in the world.

Previous nights have included Italian, Spanish, English, Indian, Chinese, Moroccan, South African and Thai.

For details, call 946-2135 or go to www.bohioresort.com946-2135

Friday, April 6  Good Friday

Got an event you wish to advertise?

Call us on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@ gmail.com for a free listing.

Lifestyle...

16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Mind, Body & Soul 

Symptoms & Signs of a Nonverbal Learning Disorder

A Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD) is a dysfunction of the frontal lobe (executive functioning) and the neural connections between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. There are multiple signs that lead to a diagnosis of a Nonverbal Learning Disorder. First, there are the social and emotional indicators.

Individuals with a NLD generally have a poor ability to read the facial cues and behavioural cues of others, especially their peers.

People with NLDs also struggle to

Greek Tomatoes

see another person’s perspective.

When communicating with others, individuals with NLDs literally interpret the language that they hear in social situations. As an example, if a person with a NLD was told by their peer that they were “starving to death,” he or she would believe that the person is actually starving to death, rather than just very hungry.

Individuals with NLDs are excessively concerned with the fairness of things; they tend to strictly follow the rules. As well, they hold very black and white interpretations of the rules and they consider the rules to be very important in dealing with peers, adults, and in learning situations. Children with NLDs can be inconsolable; once upset, these children find it difficult to let go of the upset and resolve their grief.

Individuals with NLDs tend to have rigid thinking; once an idea is formed about something they do not want to deviate from that idea. Individuals with NLDs are often diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Persons with NLDs are prone to frustration (e.g., hearing certain sounds, pressure to interact, and feeling confused about what is being

Joanne Gobeil

Registered Psychologist

asked of them). Some individuals with NLDs struggle with personal grooming and hygiene. Lastly, these individuals tend to have a history of sleep difficulties.

Aside from social and emotional indicators, an individual’s language skills can lead to a further understanding of whether a person has a NLD. Individuals with NLDs do not have a history of language delays. Moreover, people with NLDs have a high output of language, have excellent verbal production, and have verbal skills that are superior in their areas of interest. Lastly, many individuals with NLDs speak in a monotone voice.

Some cognitive indicators of a NLD are an inability to pretend, disorganization, confusion in determining right from left, and difficulty defining the main idea of a story. As well, individuals who have

NLDs have difficulty learning to tell time, are often late and misjudge time, and lose track of where they are. Additionally, persons with NLDs have deficits in predicting what will happen next, find it next to impossible to multitask, and find textbooks visually confusing.

The fourth and final group of indicators for a NLD fall under the sensory motor category. Persons who have NLDs often experience tactile sensitivity. For example, they may say that their clothes feel “funny.” As well, auditory sensitivity can also be an issue in that sounds bother these individuals and they have difficulty blocking outside noise. Gross or fine motor difficulties may also be a problem.

On the other hand, individuals with NLDs have a lot of strengths.

To begin with, persons with NLDs develop great pleasure in learning facts about their topics of interest.

Additionally, these individuals tend to have verbal language production that is beyond their age as well as an excellent vocabulary early in life. Persons with NLDs have great memories of information that they have heard and these individuals tend to not lie. Lastly, individuals with NLDs are both interested in and very skilled in the use of computers.

Caribbean Psychological Services #114 Neptune Plaza, Sandcastle Road, Grace Bay, Providenciales (649)432-6956

health Tip  This recipe is quick and easy, and especially good if you use homegrown tomatoes,’ says Marilyn Morel of Keene, New Hampshire. ‘I like to serve this savory side at family barbecues or on camping trips. The tomatoes are delicious with grilled steak and roasted corn on the cob Ingredients • 4 medium tomatoes, cut into 1/4 inch slices • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings • 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese • 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper • 1 tablespoon olive or canola oil Directions 1. Arrange tomato and onion slices on a plate. Sprinkle with the feta cheese, parsley, salt and pepper. Drizzle with oil. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

(Nutritional Analysis: One serving (1 cup) equals 91 calories, 7 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 17 mg cholesterol, 416 mg sodium, 5 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 4 g protein.

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.)

What you didn’t know about tomatoes This week we will be visiting the farm or perhaps that backyard garden, and have some freshly grown Tomatoes to explore a few facts, things you didn’t know about tomatoes.

Research says that although ‘tomatoes’ are fruits in a botanical sense they do not have the dessert quality sweetness as other fruits.

Instead, they have a subtle sweetness that is complemented by a slightly bitter and acidic taste.

They are prepared and served like other vegetable, which is why they are often categorized as such.

Cooking tempers the acid and bitter qualities in tomatoes and brings out their warm, rich sweetness. Only the fruits of this plant are eaten since the leaves contain toxic alkaloids.

Tomatoes have fleshy internal segments filled with slippery seeds surrounded by a watery matrix. They can be red, yellow, orange, purple, or

By Phillip Simmons brown in color.

Here are some of the health benefits of Tomatoes:

• A large consumption of tomatoes can help improve skin texture and color.

• Tomatoes are a good blood purifier.

• Tomatoes in cases of congestion of the liver (protects the liver from cirrhosis) as well as for dissolving gallstones.

• Tomatoes are a natural antiseptic therefore it can help to protect against infection • Nicotinic acid in tomatoes can

help to reduce cholesterol thus help prevent heart diseases.

• Vitamin K in tomatoes helps to prevent hemorrhages.

• Tomatoes contain lycopene (the red pigment in tomato), this pigment is a powerful antioxidant that can also fight cancer cells.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Lifestyle...

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The Dentist and you 

Dental Emergencies Vol 2 In this second article of three covering the topic of dental emergencies, I wanted to continue to outline sensible steps that should be taken immediately if one of these emergency situations occur.

As I have said before, being prepared and knowing what to do will give you an advantage if you find yourself, partner or child needing emergency dental care and it could possibly be the difference between saving or losing a tooth or teeth. As part of being prepared it is advisable that you save the numbers of your dentist, doctor and hospital into your phone for fast and easy access when you need them.

Toothache As a first step rinse the mouth out with warm water and then if you are able gently floss to remove any food that may be trapped around the site of the pain. If your face or mouth is swollen, apply a cold compress to your face at the affected area. Pain relief such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be taken according the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not exceed the stated doses. See a dentist as soon as possible who will be able to identify the cause of the pain and treat it accordingly. This may involve a course of antibiotics, a filling, starting a root canal or an extraction.

Chipped or broken teeth

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

If you have the piece of broken tooth, save it. Rinse the mouth with warm water to remove any broken fragments or dirt. If there is bleeding, try to stop it by applying direct pressure either by biting down or by pressing with a finger using a clean gauze or cloth. It can be helpful to apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek nearest the effected tooth to help reduce swelling and relieve pain.

See your dentist as soon as possible and if you have the piece or pieces of broken tooth bring it with you.

This is largely to ensure that the chips of tooth are accounted for

YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

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

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

and not embedded in soft tissue, inhaled or swallowed.

Lost filling As a temporary measure you can buy over-the-counter dental cement (available in pharmacies) which you apply to the hole yourself. However it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to replace the lost filling and prevent the original cavity becoming any larger.

Loose or off crown or bridge As a temporary measure if you cannot get to a dentist immediately and are not happy having a gap in the short term, denture adhesive can be used (available in pharmacies) to temporarily fix the crown back in place. Do not use crazy glue. Book an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible (bringing the crown/ bridge with you.) Providing the supporting tooth is not fractured or decayed it is a simple procedure to recement the crown or bridge.

Lost crown, bridge or denture If you have completely lost your crown or bridge then your dentist can make an immediate provisional replacement. This will fill any gaps and give time for a permanent replacement to be made.

If you have lost a denture, unfortunately the only option is to take impressions to make a new denture.

If you have completely lost your crown or bridge then your dentist can make an immediate provisional replacement.

17

Broken Denture Repairs such as a tooth broken off a denture can sometimes be completed on island. However, more complex repairs, cracks etc require a technician and therefore have to be sent off island.

The final piece covering the topic of dental emergencies will follow in a couple of weeks.

In this piece, I deal with emergencies such as abscesses, damaged or lost orthodontic appliances and jaw/ soft tissues injuries.

Recognizing the link between stress and food

We will agree that these are stressful times and there are stressors all around us. The fact is, however, that there will always be some form of stress in our lives; it just depends on how we deal with those stressors.

One way is to eat a balanced diet that is full of foods that will boost your mood and reduce your level of anxiety and irritability.

The body produces various hormones during times of stress; one of these “stress hormones” is cortisol. Even though cortisol is not only secreted during times of stress, it is secreted in very high levels during times of danger when our “flight or fight” response is engaged. This is beneficial during these times because it helps to lower our sensitivity to pain and gives a quick burst of energy. The problem comes when we are constantly under stress and our “fight or flight” response is always engaged. This heightened sense of danger or fear clearly wreaks havoc on the nervous system, so it is important that we eat foods loaded with B vitamins. Foods high in B vitamins include bananas, baked potatoes, avocados, chicken and dark green leafy veggies.

Constantly being under stress or in stressful situations also deals a powerful blow to the circulatory system and the immune system. It increases our heart rate and our blood pressure which increases our chances of strokes and heart disease. Foods high in a healthy fat, known as Omega-3, offer some protection against the effects of stress by reducing our heart rate and blood pressure. Foods high in omega-3 are fatty fish like salmon, sardines and foods like walnuts and flax. Citrus fruits which are very high in vitamin C help to boost the immune system and make you less susceptible to infection which is a side effect of stress.

Stress Busters

Another chemical made in the body is serotonin. Unlike stress, serotonin helps to enhance our mood, regulates our sleep, appetite, muscle contraction and aids in memory retention, and concentration.

The nutrients in asparagus help to form serotonin. Eating complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat bread and pasta or oatmeal can also help to make serotonin. In addition to serotonin, magnesium is a natural stress reducer. Spinach provides ample amounts of magnesium; as well as high levels of iron, calcium, folic acid and zinc.

Foods to avoid when under stress

The Food and Mood Project, a nutrition research group in the U.K., conducted a study with 200 participants and found that some foods served as “food stressors”. Participants reported cutting back on sugar, caffeine, alcohol and chocolate had the most positive impact on their emotional state. Caffeine is a known stimulator and is the last thing a stressed body needs. So foods like coffee, sodas and some teas are very high in caffeine and should be avoided until your stress levels are under controlled.

ACCU Medical Nutrition is based in Graceway IGA Plaza, Providenciales.

Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.

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Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Caribbean to continue fight Amnesty Int’l against Air Passenger Duty declares Caribbean TOURISM authorities in the Caribbean have criticised the British government for pressing ahead with plans to increase Air Passenger Duty (APD).

In last week’s Budget it was confirmed that APD will rise by eight per cent – or double the rate of inflation – on April 1, adding between £4 and £28 to the cost of a holiday for a family of four.

Senator the Hon Richard Skerritt, chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), warned that the decision would further damage the region’s economy, which is particularly dependent on tourism.

“The news is a huge disappointment,” he said. “The rate of APD to the Caribbean is already too high and discriminates against the Caribbean because of the way that it is structured.”

Due to the way the tax is calculated, by measuring the distance from London to the destination’s capital city, those flying to the Caribbean currently contribute more in APD than those flying to California or Hawaii.

But despite ongoing protests from Caribbean governments, and months of discussions between representatives from the islands and the Treasury, the British government has refused to yield over the issue.

execution-free area

It is claimed that APD has been a contributing factor to a decline in the number of British holidaymakers visiting the Caribbean (Photo: ALAMY)

Mr Skerritt said he would continue to fight for APD to be reformed.

The CTO claims that APD has been a contributing factor to a decline in the number of British holidaymakers visiting the Caribbean in recent years. It adds that members of the Caribbean community living in Britain have had to reduce their travel to the region, to visit friends and family, by up to a fifth.

However, research by Hayes &

Jarvis, the tour operator, suggested that APD is having little impact on visitor numbers to the region. It said that bookings to the Caribbean have risen by 37 per cent since last year. Its research is supported by the Post Office, which recently reported an increase in sales of the Barbados dollar (+12 per cent since 2011) and the Trinidad and Tobago dollar (+22 per cent). (www. telegraph.co.uk)

AMNESTY International has declared the Caribbean an executionfree area, with the number of countries imposing new death sentences appearing to be in decline.

In its Death Penalty Report for 2011, Amnesty International says only three countries are known to have handed down a total of six death sentences.

These countries are Guyana, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago.

Jamaica is among those countries which still have the death penalty, but it has not carried out an execution since 1988, as a result of various legal and human rights issues.

In the meantime, Amnesty International said only 20 out of 198 countries carried out executions last year.

However, it said countries that carried out executions in 2011 did so

at an alarming rate.

People were executed or sentenced to death for a range of offences including adultery and sodomy in Iran, blasphemy in Pakistan, sorcery in Saudi Arabia, the trafficking of human bones in the Republic of Congo, and drug offences in more than 10 countries.

Methods of execution in 2011 included beheading, hanging, lethal injection and shooting.

Amnesty International said some 18,750 people remained under sentence of death at the end of 2011 and at least 676 people were executed worldwide.

However, these figures do not include the thousands of executions that Amnesty International believes were carried out in China, where the numbers are suppressed. (Go Jamaica)

Bahamas police call in New York supercop THE MAN credited with breaking the back of New York City’s criminal underworld has been invited to advise Bahamian police as the government steps up its zero tolerance campaign against all forms of criminality.

William Bratton, now chairman of New York-based risk consultancy Kroll, served as police commissioner under Mayor Rudolph Giuliani from 1994-96.

Employing the “broken windows” theory that tackling petty crime can prevent its escalation to more serious criminal behaviour, he was known for being tough on gangs and getting law-abiding citizens involved in crime prevention.

Under his jurisdiction in New York, officers clamped down on people for graffiti, jumping subway turnstiles and a host of other petty crimes, although his approach did draw some criticism from activists.

Mr Bratton, a US Army veteran who served during Vietnam, is known for his success in “tougher jurisdictions” and also headed the police departments in Los Angeles and Boston, where he increased the diversity of the force to reflect the demographic make up of each city, as well as discouraging police corruption. He has also served

The man who is expected to decrease the crime rate in the Bahamas, William Bratton.

as an adviser to the police in the UK, and was a candidate to take over as commissioner of London’s Metropolitan Police.

During his tenure in New York, a tax surcharge was introduced which funded the recruitment of 5,000 better educated police officers, which in turn led to the clearance of a backlog of 50,000 outstanding warrants. Announcing the move, the government emphasised that it takes crime very seriously and is “relentlessly pursuing bold solutions” to curb lawbreaking.

The government said it is determined to solve crime by any

necessary legal means, and wants to involve all elements of society and all qualified advice.

“We will show no tolerance and we will not rest until the scourge of crime is eliminated from our society,” said Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.

He noted that his administration has already increased and better equipped the Royal Bahamas Police Force, and passed a very strong anticrime legislative package.

“The government is looking at all avenues to boost its crime fighting plan, incorporating elements from people and organisations such as Mr Bratton, who have real life expertise in reversing crime escalation in very tough locations,” said National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest. Any such information that is rendered useful, will be implemented and reinforced by the Royal Bahamas Police Force led by Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade.

The aim is to leave no stone unturned and fine-tune efforts designed at rooting out crime and ensuring the Bahamas remains a safe haven for all its citizens and visitors alike. “Our lawful and peaceful way of life must and will be preserved,” he said. (Tribune242.com)

The Barbados Tourism Authority would like to see REDjet fly the Caribbean skies again.

Bajan tourism authority bats for REDjet THE BARBADOS Tourism Authority (BTA) would love to see REDjet fly the skies of the Caribbean again. But according to BTA chairman Adrian Elcock, not many Caribbean Governments are interested in entering the airline business in these rough economic times.

Noting that Barbados remains a 49 per cent owner of LIAT and therefore makes or loses money based on the airline’s profitability, the BTA boss said that assisting REDjet would be a completely different scenario.

“REDjet would have known the market conditions coming in, so I assume their business model would have factored that in regarding a possible subsidy, but I do believe

there is some room for REDjet to operate based on their pricing model,” Elcock told the DAILY NATION in an exclusive yesterday.

“Whether their pricing model is at the right level is a decision they would eventually have to make. It’s really a difficult position they’ve found themselves in, especially since we had seen progress from our efforts in the region.” Elcock said the BTA had welcomed REDjet’s lowcost initiatives with open arms and had even worked out a marketing strategy to share with the company in an effort to improved inter-Caribbean travel, which is now Barbados’ third largest market behind the United Kingdom and the United States.

(Barbados Nation)

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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1200-room loss left Bahamas as ‘most exposed’ in Caribbean THE ROYAL Oasis and Nassau Beach Hotel closures left the Bahamas as the “most exposed destination by far” in the Caribbean when the recession hit, the minister of tourism and aviation this week told the Tribune Business that this eliminated more than 1200 midpriced rooms.

Explaining that this blunted the Bahamas’ competitive edge during a four-year period when stopover visitors were seeking discounts/ deals on room rates, Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace said the loss of both properties meant this nation was “caught on the wrong foot” from 2008 onwards.

The result was that the Bahamian hotel sector was largely left with

higher-priced properties unable to reduce rates to the same extent, and level, as many Caribbean counterparts, Mr VanderpoolWallace said, hence the reason why some regional rivals’ arrival statistics were better than this nation’s.

“The rooms we lost at the Royal Oasis and Nassau Beach Hotel were the leading priced properties,” the minister told Tribune Business. “As a result, we got caught on the wrong foot and could not recover because of the loss of entry level rooms.

“When the recession hit, we were the most exposed destination by far, because we did not have the same reasonably priced rooms to compete effectively.”

The 840-room Royal Oasis has

Gay cruise: John Hart, 41, left, and Dennis Jay Mayer, 43, both of Palm Springs, California, pleaded guilty to indecent exposure after they were caught having sex.

Gay couple arrested on cruise ship speaks DENIS MAYER and John Hart, the gay couple from Palm Springs, Calif., arrested last week aboard an Atlantis Cruise in Dominica, talked about their ordeal upon escaping from the country.

The men told Los Angeles TV station KTLA that the trouble began when their ship arrived in Dominica and they walked onto their balcony naked. They received a phone call asking them to come see the captain in guest relations, where they were told that if convicted under an antisodomy law in the country, they could spend up to 14 years in prison.

All told, the men spent 19 hours in a cement jail cell that Mayer, a retired police officer, described as inhumane with “no light, no water, no toilet,” while being paraded around like they were “some oddity.”

“We sat on the cardboard because there were cockroaches and bugs and ants in there, and I don’t know why, but we thought maybe if we sat on those, the bugs wouldn’t crawl on us, but eventually they did and we got bit by the bugs,” he said. “We plead to that indecent exposure charge, we apologized to the court, we paid our

fine.”

Mayer said the authorities asked to have them medically evaluated.

“They were going to transport us to a medical facility and have us medically examined to determine if we had engaged in sexual activity,” he said.

Hart and Mayer paid a $4,000 fine before heading to Puerto Rico, where they spoke by telephone on Saturday.

Rich Campbell, the president of Atlantis Events, which operated the cruise with nearly 2,000 gay men on the Celebrity Summit ship, said that they were not arrested because of their sexual orientation or the antigay law. He argued on Facebook that they “were seen engaging in a sexual act outdoors on their balcony in full public view of the port and town,” resulting in complaints to police.

In subsequent comments to KTLA, Campbell called what happened to Mayer and Hart “minor” and “unfortunate,” and he compared their experience to getting a “speeding ticket.” He said that his company has taken over 50,000 gay men on cruises to the Caribbean without incident in the past 15 years. (advocate.com)

yet to re-open almost some eight years after it was closed following damage sustained during Hurricane Frances in 2004. This was despite the property being purchased for $33 million in 2007 by Irish-based real estate developer, Harcourt Developments.

Meanwhile, the 400-room Nassau Beach Hotel, located on New Providence’s Cable Beach strip was closed to facilitate the $2.6 billion Baha Mar redevelopment. The property is now in the final throes of being completely demolished.

Explaining the unforeseen consequences of the loss of their 1,200-plus rooms, at least in the short-term, Mr VanderpoolWallace said: “Those 1,200 rooms disappeared at precisely the [point] we needed to deal with the recession.

We were caught on the wrong foot when the recession hit.”

Due to the Bahamas’ market position as a relatively high-priced destination, Mr Vanderpool-Wallace said large numbers of Canadian and European stopovers tended to bypass this nation in search of cheaper rates elsewhere in the Caribbean, especially in the likes of Jamaica, Cuba and the Dominican Republic.

“We see large number of Canadians fly past us because we do

not have the price points they seek.

They go to Cuba and the Dominican Republic, and their low priced properties,” the minister added.

He said it was the same with Europeans, who were constantly seeking all-inclusive, low cost vacations “at price points we can’t afford in the Bahamas”.

The latest 2011 stopover visitor comparatives provided by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) place the Bahamas among the minority of nations who suffered a stopover visitor decline last year. For January-October 2011, the Bahamas suffered a 3.7 per cent year-over-year decline in stopovers, with winter arrivals down by 0.6 per cent and summer arrivals off by 5.9 per cent.

The only other countries suffering a year-over-year decline in stopover visitors were Dominica, Montserrat, St Lucia, St Maarten and the US Virgin Islands, four of them suffering a greater decline than the Bahamas.

Mr Vanderpool-Wallace said the 8 per cent stopover arrivals drop that the Bahamas suffered in January 2011, the greatest decline of any Caribbean nation, stemmed from the fact this nation was “affected disproportionately” by the US northeast winter snowstorms because it

was more reliant on this market than anyone else.

The Bahamas also saw year-overyear stopover declines in 2011 for March (down 3.5 per cent); May (off 8.1 per cent); June (down 2.4 per cent); July (off 1.2 per cent); August (down 13.8 per cent); and October (off 11.9 per cent).

Mr Vanderpool-Wallace said the August decline was caused by the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, together with the loss of 4,000-5,000 visitors who departed before the storm hit.

He added that the declines seen in other months likely stemmed from the fact that group business had not returned as anticipated.

“March was very likely due to the fact that we had not recovered in terms of group business,” Mr Vanderpool-Wallace said. “We saw that come back with a vengeance this year. This March was a special March for us because of the return of group business.”

The Bahamas’ October 2011 performance was likely impacted by the loss of room capacity at Sandals Royal Bahamian and SuperClubs Breezes, while Mr VanderpoolWallace said Grand Bahama’s hotel industry was impacted by the loss of seaborne stopovers brought in by Discovery Cruise Lines.

UN says Haiti quake victims at risk over donor deficit THE UNITED Nations in Haiti has warned that hundreds of thousands of quake victims are at risk due to an aid shortfall.

The UN humanitarian coordinator, Nigel Fisher, says the lack of money has led to reduced services in camps for those displaced by the earthquake in 2010.

Mr Fisher said donors had provided half the aid requested by Haiti last year.

He said this underfunding threatened the victims’ “very existence” and could reverse steps taken to combat cholera.

In a statement, Mr Fisher said Haiti had received only about half of the $382m in aid demanded last year.

He said international donors had so far provided less than 10% of the $231m called for this year.

Mr Fisher said the underfunding “threatens to reverse gains achieved in the fight against cholera through the promotion of sanitary and hygiene practices”.

“It threatens the very existence of hundreds of thousands of [displaced

Many earthquake survivors are still living in tents.

people] living in camps.”

“Almost half a million people still live in camps, exposed to cholera outbreaks and risks of flooding that will be exacerbated by the upcoming rainy and hurricane season from May to November,” he said.

The earthquake on 12 January 2010 devastated the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, and many other towns, killing up to 300,000 people.

About 1.5 million people were

initially left homeless, and several hundred thousand remain in camps.

While international donors have pledged billions of dollars to help rebuild homes and infrastructure, much of the aid has not materialised and reconstruction has been slow.

Added to this, a cholera outbreak which many Haitians blame on UN peacekeepers in the country has killed more than 7,000 since October 2010. (BBC)

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

21

High performance gasoline and diesel fuel for your

every need Caribbean Energy’s UNLEADED PLUS branded gasoline is a true marine grade product that starts with a unique fuel blend of 89-Octane E-10 Midgrade gasoline and we then add an exclusive “Dual Detergent System” designed to first efficiently remove existing vehicle intake system deposits. In addition, the second detergent phase will control the formation of combustion chamber deposits, thus maintaining the engine in a clean state.

Our UNLEADED PLUS gasoline also contains “Moisture Control Additives” to hold water in suspension and to prevent problems such as “Phase Separation”, commonly occurring in ethanol blended gasoline. Caribbean Energy’s gasoline also contains an outstanding “Stabilizer” that prevents octane loss and preserves the fuel for up to 12 months, thus eliminating the need for supplemental fuel additives.

Our additive package has been tested extensively in BMW, Honda, Ford, GM, Mercedes Benz, Mercury, VW, and Yamaha engines.

Continuous use of Caribbean Energy’s UNLEADED PLUS fuel helps:

• Prevent fuel filter plugging and extend filter life.

• Clean up fuel injector & carburetor deposits.

• Improve engine power and performance*.

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Products & Services offered

• Bulk Diesel • Bulk Gasoline

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Five Cays Terminal P.O. Box 374. Max D Drive (South Dock) Providenciales Office Phone: 649-941-8760 | Office Fax: 649-946-8135 e-mail: bklightbourne@caribbean-energy.com

www.caribbean-energy.com

The more often our fuel product is used, the more benefits you get for your vehicle.

Continuous use of Caribbean Energy’s PREMIUM DIESEL fuel helps:

Our UNLEADED PLUS Marine Grade gasoline takes into account our harsh operating environment and our additive package begins to work as soon as they are introduced into the fuel tank.

• Cleans up and prevents injector deposits.

• Reduces piston and combustion chamber deposits.

• Lubricates injectors and pumps and prevents premature wear.

• Helps prevent rust & corrosion.

• Helps prevent sludge.

• Extends fuel filter life.

• Absorbs controlled amounts of moisture to help keep tanks dry.

Our detergent concentration exceeds the level as currently used by many major fuel companies in the USA. Many of these companies classify their fuel as “Top-Tier” (http://www. toptiergas.com/retailers.html), but their fuel only contains a fraction of the premium additives found in our product, which has been tailored for operating environment.

Caribbean Energy’s PREMIUM DIESEL starts with an Ultra Low Sulfur (clear) No. 2 Diesel base fuel stock, at 15ppm Sulfur or less, and we then introduce our additive package that reduces fuel consumption, diesel smoke, soot and odor. Our additive package also prevents fuel contamination and fuel filter plugging.

Caribbean Energy’s PREMIUM DIESEL is the very first diesel fuel approved in the Turks & Caicos Islands by Jaguar Land Rover (dating back to 2009) as a Euro-5 compliant fuel and our additive package is specially formulated for all automotive and marin e diesel engines. Our product contains a biocide, lubricity improver, water dispersant, corrosion inhibitor and fuel stabilizer and is specifically formulated to increase the Cetane number.

* Based on clean-up of Fuel System Deposits and improved combustion from Cetane boost.

Improve engine power and performance Reduce harmful emissions Maintain and Extend engine life

Service Station and Marina locations Providenciales

Grant’s Enterprises, Leeward Highway SmithCo, Industrial Bypass Road Turtle Cove Marina, Turtle Cove Walkin Marina, Leeward

North Caicos

Ferrington Gardiner

Grand Turk

Durham’s Service Station

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23

24

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

A duck to water: Royal family impressed

by Kate’s handling of her new role – Reveals Prince Edward THE ROYAL family has been impressed by how easily Kate Middleton has taken to the pressures of life in the royal family, Prince Edward has revealed.

The Duchess of Cambridge has sailed through her first year of royal engagements without putting a foot wrong, and last week gave her first public speech during a visit to the Treehouse children’s hospice.

While husband Prince William was posted to the Falklands she also visited Liverpool and Oxford solo, and joined the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla for a number of other engagements.

Kate’s warm smile and friendliness have made her a hit with the public and the royal family are “very proud” of how well she is handling

life in the spotlight.

Edward said: “Catherine is doing very well. She has taken to royal life like a duck to water.

“She’s very gracious and the family is very proud of her.

“It was never going to be easy for Catherine as the whole world is watching her every move.

“She’s dealt with it very well though and I think Catherine can only grow in confidence now her first official engagements are out of the way.”

Kate has been on two public visits with the Queen recently, first to Fortnum & Masons along with Camilla, and then joining the Queen and Prince Philip on a trip to Leicester the first engagement on the Diamond Jubilee tour.

That gave the Queen the chance to see for herself how the 30-year-old Duchess is

South Korea’s Mini, left, joins Canada’s Jenna Talackova at the Miss International Queen 2010 transgender beauty pageant.

Miss Universe pageant ousts transgender contestant

Legs crossed: Kate and the Queen share an elegant pose.

handling her new role.

And while the royals are delighted to see how much of a success Kate is proving, they are determined to continue to shield her so she can grow into her royal life.

Just days after the Leicester visit, Edward said: “My mother and father are understandably

very protective of her.

“William’s grown up with the attention but Catherine hasn’t.

“But she’s dealing with it very well and the family support her as much as we can.

“I think William and Harry, as well as my brother, have tried their best to make her transition into public life as gentle as possible.”

And as William and Kate prepare to celebrate their first anniversary next month, Edward has confirmed the family’s joy that the future king has found his perfect match.

A CANADIAN beauty pageant contestant who was disqualified when the Miss Universe Canada organizers discovered she was transgender is not ready to speak to reporters, a representative for the 6-foot1-inch-tall blond model said Tuesday.

Jenna Talackova was one of the 65 finalists selected to contend for the title of Miss Universe Canada and the honour of representing her country in the Miss Universe competition, but she will not be allowed to compete because organizers say Talackova lied about having undergone sexual reassignment surgery

This is our place

By Kayla D Higgs

The untouched sand, Made gorgeously with God’s perfect hand, The sun must be happy to shine on such beautiful land.

The seas kiss the sky, and, the clouds barely cry.

This beautiful place, made unique and with grace We see the reactions on the other man’s face.

They want to come here and share our space, Let them come and enjoy But still know this is our place.

Where the sun always shines, and, the birds always sing.

The laughter doesn’t end and, the beauty extends, This is our place.

(The Weekly News invites budding poets to submit their pieces for publication at tcweeklynews@gmail.com )

and did not meet requirements for the pageant.

“As with any competition, the Miss Universe pageant has rules which apply to all of its franchises around the world. Such rules include, but are not limited to, citizenship, age, and marital status requirements. Additionally, the rules currently state that all contestants must be naturally born females,” the Miss Universe Organisation said.

Those rules are not mentioned on the Miss Universe website.

Rory Richards, a spokeswoman for the 23-yearold Vancouver resident, said Talackova will not be able to talk to reporters pending possible legal action.

“Jenna is overwhelmed, and deeply moved, by the support she has received from around the globe, but especially from fellow Canadians that have said how proud they would be if she represented Canada in the Miss Universe pageant,” Richards wrote in an e-mail to CNN on Tuesday.

Before falling out of the public eye, Talackova took to the social networking site Twitter, implying she felt the actions of Miss Universe were the result of prejudice.

“I’m not going to just let them disqualify me over discrimination,” she tweeted, “”I’m not giving up.”

Michael Cole-Schwartz, spokesman for the LGBT advocacy group Human Rights Campaign, called the decision unfair and unnecessary. “Jenna is a woman,” he said. “She presents as a woman, she lives as a woman, and that’s all that matters.”

“Any term that separates her from any other woman is demeaning,” he continued.

He isn’t alone in his support for Talackova. The Facebook page of Miss Universe Canada is full of comments criticising the pageant’s decision.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

25

Final Harry Potter wins top prize at Empire Awards THE FINAL instalment of the Harry Potter film franchise has won the top prize at the 2012 Empire Awards.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 scooped best film and best director for David Yates, with many of the film’s cast attending the ceremony.

Gary Oldman won best actor for his role in political thriller Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. And The Inbetweeners Movie beat Bridesmaids to pick up best comedy.

Blockbusters Thor and The Adventures of Tintin: The

Secret of the Unicorn also won.

Daniel Radcliffe was unable to attend the ceremony to receive Harry Potter’s prize, but left a video message, saying: “I’ve always been quite a harsh judge of the series, but I was over the moon with this final film. I think we went out on a high note.”

TINKER TAILOR TREBLE Oldman won the best actor prize after losing out to France’s Jean Dujardin, who starred in The Artist, at both the Oscars and the Baftas.

Speaking backstage he said:

“There’s no agenda, there’s no politics, it’s just people who like movies voting on whether they like you or not!”

Oldman’s film Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy went on to win best British film and best thriller.

Olivia Colman got best actress for hard-hitting English drama Tyrannosaur.

Accepting her award, she said: “Although it didn’t seem it, it was the most enjoyable experience I’ve ever had on set.”

Director Tim Burton, whose films include Edward Scissorhands, Sweeney Todd

The last part of the Potter franchise made £73.1m at the UK box office.

and the 1989 version of Batman, picked up the Empire Legend award.

Michael Fassbender, star of X-Men: First Class, was given the Empire Hero prize.

The Empire Awards are voted for entirely by the public. (BBC)

26

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

EU offices around the world ‘left empty for months’

Obama beats GOP rivals Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum in vital swing states: poll

EU diplomats around the world are facing calls to have their annual leave cut amid a claim that offices are left “empty for many months of the year”.

MEP Ingeborg Graessle says in a working document that some officials can take 17-18 weeks off including overtime.

The EU’s External Action Service (EEAS) says it is trying to change a system inherited before its creation in 2010.

But EU officials have described as “ridiculous” the idea that offices abroad are being left untended.

One source said that most of the people sent to work in EU delegations and embassies around the world were “thoroughly committed to their job”.

Dr Graessle complains that MEPs have been calling for some time for a change to staff regulations that provide perks dating back to the 1960s.

PRESIDENT Obama has opened up leads on his potential Republican rivals in all three of November’s most important swing states.

Obama is ahead of both Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum in the crucial trio of Ohio, Florida and Pennsylvania, according to a new poll.

The states are the biggest prizes on the general election map, as no candidate since 1960 has captured the White House without winning at least two of the three.

A Quinnipiac poll released Wednesday shows Obama up in Ohio 47 % - 41% on Romney and 47% - 40% on Santorum.

Though Santorum served as a Senator for 12 years in Pennsylvania, he trails Obama 48% - 41% in the Keystone State, according to the poll. Romney actually fares better there, down just 45% - 42%.

And in Florida, where Obama has not polled well recently, the President is now up 49% - 42% on Romney and 50% - 37% on Santorum, according to the Quinnipiac survey.

“President Barack Obama is on a roll in the key swing states. If the election were today, he would carry at least two states,” said Peter A.

She says “substantial periods of absence from work are the norm” with staff able to earn two days’ extra leave per month through overtime.

“Plenty of people tell me that staff are not available because they have too many days off,” Dr Graessle said. “How will you be able to build up a real service if your staff are not available?”

As well as nine “office closing days”, officials in many countries such as South Sudan, Iraq, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are allowed special leave, she says, far more than diplomats working for national governments such as Germany.

The EEAS is headed by EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, whose spokesman Michael Mann said: “I think no-one will argue that if you are in a place which is clearly dangerous such as Afghanistan you deserve a few extra days off.”

“It is wrong to count overtime compensation as annual ‘holidays’,” he added.

Dr Graessle, who is the Parliament’s rapporteur on financial regulation, says the leave issue involves all postings: in Washington, an EU official’s basic annual leave is 53-59 days, depending on an employee’s age, compared with 33 for a diplomat working for the German government.

The European Parliament is currently considering a Commission proposal to cut staffing levels and halve the time allowed for travelling home from overseas postings to up to three days.

Several meetings had been held with the European Commission to consider the issue of annual leave and public holidays and Baroness Ashton’s team would work with the Parliament in Brussels on revising the rules, Mr Mann said. (BBC)

New poll shows President Obama beating out the two top GOP rivals, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum, in vital swing states of Ohio, Florida and Pennsylvania.

Brown of the Quinnipiac University Polling Institute.

“And if history repeats itself,” Brown said, “that means he would be reelected.”

Obama captured all three states in 2008 and has poured time and resources into the battlegrounds again this year.

Their importance was born out in a pair of recent elections: George W. Bush won in 2000 after the contested Florida recount, while Ohio provided his margin of victory over John Kerry four years later.

The lack of women’s rights under the Taliban helped to justify western military intervention in Afghanistan.

Hundreds of Afghan women jailed for ‘moral crimes’ HUNDREDS of Afghan women are in jail for “moral crimes”, including running away and extra-marital sex, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has said.

In a report, it said that women were punished for fleeing domestic abuse and violence while some rape victims were also imprisoned.

Sex outside marriage - even when the woman is forced - is considered adultery, another “moral crime”.

The “I Had to Run Away report” was released in Kabul on Wednesday.

The report said that the government of President Hamid Karzai had failed to fulfil its obligations under international human rights laws.

“It is shocking that 10 years after the overthrow of the Taliban, women and girls are still imprisoned for running away from domestic violence or forced marriage,” HRW Executive Director Kenneth Roth said.

The report called on the government to release about 400 women and girls held in jails or juvenile detention centres.

“Some women and girls have been convicted of mina, sex outside of marriage, after being raped or forced into prostitution,” it said.

“Judges often convict solely on the basis of ‘confessions’ given in the absence of lawyers and ‘signed’ without having been read to women

who cannot read or write.

“After conviction, women routinely face long prison sentences, in some cases more than 10 years.”

It said that the situation had been made worse by Mr Karzai frequently changing his position on women’s rights.

“Unwilling or unable to take a consistent line against conservative forces within the country, he has often made compromises that have negatively impacted women’s rights.”

Earlier this month the president endorsed a “code of conduct” issued by an influential council of clerics which allows husbands to beat wives under certain circumstances. (BBC)

Lead surgeon Eduardo Rodriguez: ‘’He put the mirror down and thanked me and hugged me’’

US face transplant man ‘recovering well’ after surgery A MAN who was given a face transplant after living for 15 years as a recluse is recovering well, US doctors say.

Richard Lee Norris is beginning to feel his face and is already brushing his teeth and shaving, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Last week he was given what physicians say is the most extensive face transplant ever carried out, including new teeth, nose, tongue and jaw.

He has also regained his sense of smell, his doctors say.

The 37-year-old cut himself off

from the rest of the world and wore a mask whenever he went outside after suffering horrific injuries in a gun accident.

The surgery was funded by the US Navy, which hopes the techniques will help casualties from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Surgeons who carried out the 36-hour operation said it was part of a series of transplant operations lasting 72 hours, using organs from one donor in five patients, including Mr Norris.

He lost his lips and nose in the accident, and only had limited movement of his mouth.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

27

Sudan and South Sudan may slide back to war, world powers warn

Ex-International Monetary Fund Chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn is not allowed to have contact with others involved in the probe.

Strauss-Kahn lawyers fight against prostitutes claim

LAWYERS for Dominique StraussKahn pushed back Tuesday against allegations that he facilitated prostitution in France, saying there was “no significant evidence” the former International Monetary Fund chief knew young women at parties he attended were being paid for sex.

Other suspects held over an investigation into prostitution centered around the city of Lille “said that Dominique Strauss-Kahn did not know that these women were being paid,” Strauss-Kahn’s lawyer Henri Leclerc said in a news conference.

“We hear that these women say otherwise. Well, no! I can tell you these women do not say otherwise,” he said.

Strauss-Kahn was formally warned Monday that he is under investigation for “aggravated pimping” for accusations that he participated in a prostitution ring, prosecutors said.

He is not allowed to have contact with other people involved in the investigation, nor is he permitted to talk to the media about the case.

Strauss-Kahn was released under a €100,000 ($133,000) bail, according to prosecutors.

Strauss-Kahn is now at a point in the French legal system that comes

after an arrest and before formal charges are filed.

He faces allegations of habitual involvement in a prostitution racket.

The description of the alleged crime as “aggravated” means it took place on a regular and involved basis, and “pimping” means facilitating a prostitution operation, not just being a customer.

Leclerc said it was possible to question his client’s morals, but that he had not broken the law.

“We can criticise in terms of virtue, in terms of how a man should conduct himself,” the lawyer said. “But in reality, this is just unruly conduct. You can hate it, you may not find it virtuous -- everyone is entitled to their own opinion -- but it is not a crime.”

Frederique Beaulieu, another lawyer for Strauss-Kahn, said Tuesday: “You have to remember that in our country having relations with a prostitute is not a crime.”

While prostitution is not illegal in France, profiting from the prostitution of another person is against the law, according to the French Penal Code.

Authorities are also investigating whether corporate funds were used to pay for the prostitutes.

Leclerc said in December that there was no evidence that such funds were misappropriated.

Survey finds that 33 is the happiest age of people’s lives AGE 33 is the best year of our lives, a new survey has found.

A British website, Friends Reunited, says that 70% of people over 40 picked that age as their happiest.

Just 6% said they were content during their college years, the site reported.

And only 16% pined for their childhood years.

One in three surveyed found their happiness in having children, while only one in five linked their

sense of joy to their job.

“The age of 33 is enough time to have shaken off childhood naivete and the wild scheming of teenaged years without losing the energy and enthusiasm of youth,” psychologist Donna Dawson said.

“By this age innocence has been lost, but our sense of reality is mixed with a strong sense of hope,” she added. “We have yet to develop the cynicism and worldweariness that comes with later years.” (Nydailynews.com)

SUDAN and South Sudan may be sliding back toward war, the United States and other international powers are warning, amid reports that Sudan is bombing its newly independent neighbour.

The White House is “alarmed” by recent fighting in the region of Southern Kordofan, Sudan, it said in a statement Tuesday, urging both sides to “exert the greatest restraint.”

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton laid most of the blame for the recent fighting on Sudan.

On Tuesday, she called bombing runs and the use of heavy weaponry by the North “evidence of disproportionate force on the part of the government in Khartoum.”

The United States has also urged South Sudan to stop arming rebel groups in its northern neighbour.

South Sudan denies it is doing so.

“We are urging both parties to cease all military activity along the border, because it is a flashpoint that could become even more dangerous and escalate out of control,” U.S. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said Tuesday.

On Wednesday, the top European Union foreign policy official echoed the American concerns.

Catherine Ashton called the clashes “a dangerous escalation of an already tense situation,” and warned: “Further cross-border military activity could result in a wider military confrontation.”

The ground clashes that erupted this week are the first between the two sides since South Sudan became independent last year.

A burnt military vehicle sits where South Sudanese troops and Sudan government forces clashed along the border near Hegleg, the central area for Sudan’s oil production.

They have thrown into doubt plans for Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir to visit South Sudan next month for talks with South Sudan President Salva Kiir.

South Sudan military spokesman Philip Aguer Tuesday accused Sudan of bombing an oil field in the south, a claim Sudan army spokesman AlSuwarmi Khalid denied.

Actor George Clooney, an outspoken activist on Sudan, was arrested Friday protesting outside the country’s embassy in Washington.

Clooney met with U.S. President Barack Obama Thursday to discuss his concerns about Sudan after testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee about violence in the Nuba Mountains of South Kordofan.

On Monday, the United Nations Security Council “demand(ed) that all parties cease military operations in the border areas and put an end to

the cycle of violence,” said Security Council President Mark Lyall Grant of the United Kingdom.

“The members of the Security Council are deeply alarmed by the military clashes in the region bordering Sudan and South Sudan, which threaten to precipitate a resumption of conflict,” Lyall Grant said.

South Sudan became independent from Sudan last year after years of civil war over oil-rich territory.

Recent talks between the two sides failed to resolve the longrunning dispute over oil revenues.

South Sudan shut down oil production in late January after accusing its northern neighbor of stealing $815 million worth of its oil.

Sudan said it confiscated the crude to make up for unpaid fees to use the pipeline and processing facilities in its territory. (CNN)

Future generations could suffer if no changes in food growth, consumption MAJOR changes are needed in agriculture and food consumption around the world if future generations are to be adequately fed, a major report warns.

Farming must intensify sustainably, cut waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from farms, it says.

The Commission on Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change spent more than a year assessing evidence from scientists and policymakers.

Its final report was released at the Planet Under Pressure conference.

The commission was chaired by Prof Sir John Beddington, the UK government’s chief scientific adviser.

“If you’re going to generate enough food both to address the poverty of a billion people not getting enough food, with another billion [in the global population] in 13 years’ time, you’ve got to massively increase agriculture,” Sir John told BBC News.

“You can’t do it using the same agricultural techniques we’ve used before, because that would seriously increase greenhouse gas emissions for the whole world, with climate change knock-ons.”

Farming is probably responsible for about one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, although the figure is hard to pin down as a large proportion comes from land clearance, for which emissions are notoriously difficult to measure.

Although there are regional variations, climate change is forecast to reduce crop yields overall dramatically so in the case of South Asia, where studies suggest the wheat yield could halve in 50 years.

“We need to develop agriculture that is ‘climate smart’ - generating more output without the accompanying greenhouse gas emissions, either via the basic techniques of farming or from ploughing up grassland or cutting

down rainforest,” said Sir John.

The techniques needed in different regions vary according to what is appropriate, said Dr Christine Negra, who co-ordinated the commission’s work.

“In places where using organic methods, for example, is appropriate or economically advantageous and produces good socio-economic and ecological outcomes, that’s a great approach,” she said.

“In places where, using GMOs, you can address food security challenges and socio-economic issues, those are the right approaches to use where they’ve been proven safe.”

The commission’s recommendations go a long way beyond farming methods, however.

It says the economic and policy framework around food production and consumption need to change to encourage sustainability, to raise output while minimising environmental impacts. (BBC)

Auto sales real estate

FAST SALE

WAITRESS

FOR RENT

NEEDED

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

6465

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 231-2159

Classifieds contact: 946-4664

Island Network is looking for one

Lecturer for holistic studies Requirements: • Study in humanistic transpersonal therapy • Minimum of 5 years experience • Metaphysic in the human energy field • Salary based on experience

Contact Darlene Hudson at 946-4736 between the hours of 12-5 Position now available

6453

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

STUDIO APARTMENT FOR RENT

1.3 Acres Of Land Ocean Drive, Turtle Tail Semi-Hilltop

$300,000 o.n.o.

$650.00 per month Gated Community Furnished

CONTACT: 231-3788

Contact: 231-3788

Apartment

Building for Sale

Six (6) One (1) Bedroom One (1) Bath. Located on Millinneum Highway.Contact Tel: 649 333 1723 or 649 246 6119 Email: capronis2005@ yahoo.com 6459

EXPRESS CONSTUCTION

GRANTS PETROLEUM TEXACO Is looking for a

Is looking for a

LaboUrer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 941-3478

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

contact: 941-5804

BAYVIEW MOTORS Is currently looking to employ a

PAINTER WANTED

REQUIRED

Minimum experience 6 years post Graduate MRCGP, DRCOG Application must be submitted in writing with references and CV or via email Ms.Narisa Thomas Interisland Medical Services, Neptune Court, Grace Bay or email: iimsadmin@tciway.tc

6467

FOR SALE

946-4664

6472

Services

March 31 - April 6, 2012

To work on employers premises must be willing to work 6 days per week doing maintenance to rental property salary $5.00 per hour contact:

A. Castan @ 347-4348

6466

Labourer

Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance of the building, stocking of the shelves and any other duty that may be assigned to you The individual must possess the following: • Adequate tools to perform his duties • Must be able to work with little or no supervision • Must be computer literate • Must be able to work weekends • Must possess a valid drivers license Please submit all applications between 9am-5-pm Monday-Friday

Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619, Leeward Highway Providenciales

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

6463

Job Listings

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

6470

28

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Stable hand Wanted • Must have minimum of 10 years experience working with all aspects of keeping, riding and training horses.

• Must have current drivers license • Must be a people person/ have excellent communication skills and understanding of customer service.

• Must have some computer skills • Must not weigh over 160lbs • Must speak fluent English, second language is an asset • Willing to work flexible hours and holidays, Monday through Saturday, approx. 45 hrs per week • Pay is $300 per week

TREVOR LEWIS Is seeking a

Labourer

Please submit resume to provoponies@ yahoo.com or call 649-241-6350

6482

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour interested person may.

contact 231-8564

NOTICE Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990

An Application, PR 11149, by Jean Baptiste Milien for the development of three 3 apartment units, has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on 60503/238, Blue Hills, Providenciales.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty eight (28) days of publication of this Notice.

Notice Date: March 28, 2012

29

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

6485

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

6490

FAX: (649) 946-4661

SOMERSET STRATA MANAGEMENT CO. LTD.

VACANCIES The Somerset Strata organization is seeking suitable qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently.

Responsibilities:

GARDENER

• Complete ground work as directed by the Property Manager which may include picking up trash, sweeping curb and dumpster areas and maintaining landscaping beds and other ground areas • Must have the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 150lbs • Must have the ability to maintain irrigation systems and provide proper upkeep of sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, fountains, and other grounds features

LABOURER

Responsibilities: • Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on heating, cooling and ventilation systems • Paint and repair drywall along with performing routine maintenance jobs and repairs around the property GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: • Must be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guest • Must have clear English communications skills (written or oral) • Previous experience in this area would be an asset Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience

Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to:

Aleisa Musgrove Strata Operations Manager The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay amusgrove@thesomerset.com Submissions for this job position should be received no later than April 13th , 2012

6489

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Comfort Suites Ports of Call Resort

Bartender full time

• Looking for an outgoing individual who has had previous bartending experience.

• A creative individual who can enhance the guest experience.

• Accepting resumes at the front desk. No phone calls please.

NEW STYLE CONSTRUCTION

GRACE BAY SUITES

Is looking for a

Labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-7185

FLOWER GIRL

Is looking to fill the following positions:

6480

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Is looking for a

Flower CoOrdinatoR

• Cleaners • Maids • Life guard • Masseuse • Beach/ Pool Attendants • Bartenders • Front Desk Manager • Part-time & live-in positions available immediately Please deliver resume with salary expectations to Front Desk preference will be given to qualified Belongers

• Must know different kinds of flowers • Must know how to treat flowers • Must know how to arrange and take care of flowers

Contact: 231-3788

6373

VEHICLES FOR SALE

WARD CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our client: Aomizu Ltd. Yoshis Restaurant, Goldsmith is looking to fill the following positions:

Vacancy Notice INVESTMENT SERVICE EXECUTIVE

2 Sushi Chefs

Must be well versed in food preparation, making sushi, able to prepare stocks, soups and sauces, chop up and prepare all kinds of meat, not just seafood, know how to prepare and wrap sushi dishes as well as anything else on the menu in a timely manner to satisfy all customer orders.

Shift work salary $8.00 per hour

VOLVO TRACTOR WITH FLATBED AND PIGGYBACK FORKLIFT

DODGE 2500 LARAMIE WITH TURBO CHARGED CUMMINS DIESEL

Sales Clerk

CHERRINGTON BEACH CLEANER 40FT. TRAILER SUITABLE VEHICLES OR PALLETS

Contact: 649-332-5533

ALL IN EXCELLENT ORDER CONTACT: DAVE 241-5062

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The incumbent in this managerial position coordinates the objective of pre-Investment and Investment services as a core function of the investment Unit; aligned strongly with the marketing role the Candidate will work closely with the Director in the creation of the investment packages, and conception of investment pushes for marketing and development of investment goals. This role “sells” the country and its investment products and opportunities. Providing professional services for the development of the investment project proposals as set out in the project proposal guidelines. This role requires strong communication skills professional mannerisms and to be an excellent ambassador for the Turks and Caicos Islands. This role also liaises directly with the marketing role and after care services to complete the feedback loop and ensure a full service offering from the unit. Duties include reviewing reports and projects; developing investment communication, information, data and other related policies and procedures; preparing annual estimates of expenditure; meeting consultants; supervising staff and overseeing the investment generation for the islands in line with governmental aims and objectives and liaising with other Government Department. The incumbent will also represent the TCIG Investment Unit at meetings, conferences and seminars, and provide impartial, accurate and timely advice to superiors.

6475

To work 6 days per week salary $250.00 per week.

6476

30

FIRST GLOBAL INSURANCE BROKERS LIMITED. T/A UNITED RELIANCE INSURANCE BROKERS (2008) Is seeking a qualified individual to fill the following position:

UNDERWRITER The successful candidate would meet the following requirements:

• Have a College Degree at least at bachelors level or Diploma in Insurance • Have 15 years experience in Commercial Underwriting • Have 10 years experience in Risk Management in Property, Casualty and Employee Benefit insurance • Be Proficient in oral and written communication • Be Computer Literate & especially familiar with Broker 1 Underwriting and Accounting software • Have Good Negotiation Skills • Be Able to effectively deal with Insurance Companies, Brokers and Agents

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The position requires an Undergraduate Degree in Finance, Investment Planning, Public Sector Management, Development, Marketing or Business related area from a recognized institution. The candidate must have at least six (6) years hands-on experience, five (5) of which should have been obtained functioning in a similar field of work.

The incumbent must also be knowledgeable in Public Service Development laws, Procedures and Practices as well as be current with Public Sector Developmental reforms and best practices in countries similar to the Turks & Caicos Islands. The successful candidate is required to be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite as well as online management tools and customer contact software. Intermediate knowledge of the use of Graphic Design and other Web Design Software would be preferred. He /She must be able must have excellent communication skills and be a strong ambassador for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

OTHER DUTIES • Must be able to attend to on-call duties especially in emergency situations particularly during Catastrophes Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

SALARY: $44,820 - $ 47,790 per annum

Applications must be emailed to: info@fgibtci.com Attn: Managing Director First Global Insurance Brokers Limited P.O. Box 117, Caribbean Place Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Applicant’s resume including contact number or email address, two letters of reference and a police certificate should be sent to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Public Service Management, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands. Fax (649) 946-1582. Email: recruitment@gov.tc Extension: 10318 ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED 6416

Applications must be received by 5th April 2012

6473

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

31 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES NATHANIEL GARDINER

MAMET LTD.

Is looking for a

Is seeking a

Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour interested person may contact the Director at

Is looking for a

C & J EMPLOYMENT Acting on behalf of our clients: C & J Variety Store, North Caicos Café, Danny Buoy’s Restaurant, Philip Hawkins (Paradise Entertainment), Tibor’s Machine Shop, AMJ’s Store, discount Auto Parts & Tires, Emily Delancy is looking to fill the following positions:

2 Sales Clerks (Cashiers) – $5.00 per hour

Domestic worker To work 5 days per week $5.00 per hour.

+6489

231-2995

AMETHYST PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

contact: 241-4838

6478

3 Waitresses

– $5.00 per hour

2 Domestic Workers

Gardener

– $5.00-$6.00 per hour

3 Laborers

– $5.00-$6.00 per hour

contact: 432-2390

6487

Domestic Worker

2 Carpenters

To work 6 days per week 3 hours per day salary $100 per week

Labourer

– $6.00 per hour

1 Mason

– $6.00 per hour

Contact: 941-8283 6491

to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. Send resumes to P.O. Box 954 6486

BUTTERFIELD GOLD GROUP OF COMPANIES

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

GOVERNMENT VACANCY

Coral Quarry

DEPARTMENT: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Three (3) Mechanics

SOCIAL WORKER

@@ The employee is responsible for the repair and maintenance of all Company equipment/machinery, and to ensure minimum downtime of same through proper coordination of the preventative maintenance program. @@ Must have least 10 years experience @@ Must have the ability to lift and move up to 100lbs @@ Must have vision abilities; close vision, color vision, peripheral vision and depth perception. @@ Applicants must have knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions applicable to the trade. Must have the ability to communicate effectively

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Service for the post of Social Worker, Department of Social Services. This post holder works alongside a team that has nation-wide responsibility for the elderly, orphans, juveniles, probationers and parolees. The successful candidate is responsible for counseling clients and their families, interviewing and assessing foster families and collaborating with other departments and organizations to ensure that the needs of disadvantaged persons in the communities are met. The incumbent will be expected to generate results as part of a team that are deemed to be satisfactory when orphans are placed in suitable foster homes; the elderly, disabled and needy are identified in the society and steps are taken to ensure continued care; parolees and juvenile delinquents are properly supervised and suspected cases of abuse are identified, investigated and referred to the necessary authorities. He / She is also required to research and analyze social data that will impact policy decisions. The candidate is also expected to make presentations in public forums on the welfare of children in the Turks and Caicos Islands context.

• The employee will be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, extreme heat, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration, moderate to loud noise levels. To be exposed to outside weather conditions.

• Applicants will be exposed to hazardous work environments.

• Salary: from $9.50 per hour

Three (3) Labourers

@@ Offloading the cement boat and must be Physical, able-bodied individuals capable of lifting heavy loads @@ Wages from $ 6.00 per hour

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The position requires the incumbent to have a Bachelors in Social Work or related field.

The incumbent is also expected to have at least three (3) years relevant experience. A valid driver’s license would be an asset.

Island Pride Supermarket

One (1) Cashier

RENUMERATION PACKAGE:

@@ To operate a cash register and check stand to provide the store’s customer with the most friendly, accurate and efficient checkout service possible; to perform stocking and other duties as assigned, according to company policy; to ensure that the work shift contributes to the financial best interest of the store. @@ Wages: from $6.00 per hour

SALARY: $ 22,356.00 - $25,704.00 per annum For persons recruited outside the Turks and Caicos Islands a two (2) year contract is offered. Other benefits include Housing Allowance, end of contract gratuity of fifteen percent (15%), return packages for SPOUSE AND a family of up to two (2) children under the age of sixteen (16) years and duty free on the shipment of personal effects imported within six (6) months of the appointment.

Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department.

Only applicants selected for interview will be notified.

Submit applications to by April 15, 2012 to:

Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department Town Center Mall Providenciales Tel: 649-946-4211

For more information on the Job Description please contact the Office of the Public Service Management; Telephone 649-946-2801, Extension#: 10322.

All resumes with contact information and two letters of References as well as a Police Certificate should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Public Service Management, Church Folly, Grand Turk.

Facsimile: 946-1582, Email: recruitment@gov.tc APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5th April 2012 6494

6451

32

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

CELESTE NORI POWELL

BAY BISTOR RESTARUANT

DORIKA TALBOT T/A DOMINIQUE BEAUTY SALON & BOUTIQUE

Is looking for a

is looking for

Is looking for a

Cosmetologist

contact: 342-6299

contact: 431-8452

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

6457

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 232-1025

Labourer 6469

To work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

6449

Domestic Worker

GOVERNMENT VACANCY DEPARTMENT: JUDICIARY

REGISTRAR OF SUPREME COURT & COURT OF APPEAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service for the Post of Registrar in the Supreme Court and The Court of Appeal. The incumbent in this position is responsible for the efficient day-to-day operations of the Supreme Court and its Registry. He/ She will work under the direction of, and assist, the Chief Justice, issue process and ensure due execution of judgments; supervise the administration of cases including setting dates for and issue hearing notices; correspond with Attorneys and Litigants to ensure that all files are properly maintained; manage the Registry Office and supervise staff. In addition, the successful candidate will act as Registrar of the Court of Appeal, which includes the preparation of appeal bundles; as well as scheduling and attending the sittings of the Court under the direction of the President of the Court of Appeal. The Registrar also manages the budget for the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. He / She is also expected to train, develop and appraise staff in the Providenciales and Grand Turk Office and will be supported by a Deputy and Senior Deputy Registrar. The successful incumbent may also be required to perform any other related duties as may be assigned by the Chief Justice.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The position requires the incumbent to have Seven (7) years post-admission experience and he/she must be qualified for admission under the Legal Profession Ordinance [Cap 2:10] to practice as an Attorney of the Supreme Court of the Turks and Caicos Islands or admitted to practice as a barrister of solicitor in a Commonwealth jurisdiction or Ireland.

RENUMERATION PACKAGE: SALARY $51,840 PER ANNUM Other benefits offered in addition to basic salary include Transportation Allowance, Professional allowance, Telephone Allowance, Housing Allowance and economy return passage.

For persons recruited outside the Turks and Caicos Islands a two (2) year contract is offered.

Other benefits include Housing Allowance, end of contract gratuity of fifteen percent (15%), return passage for a family of up to two (2) children under the age of sixteen (16) years and duty free on the shipment of personal effects imported within six (6) months of the appointment.

For more information on the Job Description please contact the Office of the Public Service Management; Telephone 649-946-2801, Extension#: 10322. All resumes with contact information and two letters of References as well as a Police Certificate should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Public Service Management, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582, Email: recruitment@gov.tc APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5th April 2012

6452

March 31 - April 6, 2012 FAX: (649) 946-4661

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

33 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Spa Therapist

Is looking for a

With over 5 years experience in all types of Massages, facials plus other skin/ body care services as well as Manicure/Pedicure. Applicants experience must include working in the Tourist Sector. Wages $300 per week plus commission scheme. The successful applicant must be a team player and highly motivated to excel.

For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 946-8212 Mon to Fri between hrs of 10am and 5pm. Resumes and references required. Applications would be considered from Belongers only and must be received by 2nd April, 2012. POSITION AVAILABLE 16TH MAY, 2012

To work 6 days per week salary negotiable.

6456

CHIEF ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER

contact: 941-5636

Is looking for a

Labourer

Janitor

GOVERNMENT VACANCY DEPARTMENT: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

PAUL TANIA

BETHANY BAPTIST CHURCH

6476

March 31 - April 6, 2012

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 331-3846

6462

GOVERNMENT VACANCY DEPARTMENT: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

SENIOR SOCIAL WORKER

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONBILITIES:

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONBILITIES:

An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Service for the post of Chief Environmental Officer within the Environmental Health Department, Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs. This is a managerial position which has nation-wide responsibility for the enforcement of public, environmental health and sanitation standards as well as administering such services to stakeholders. The post holder is responsible for developing and implementing a Strategic Environmental Health Plan to take the Department forward. He / She is expected to ensure the maintenance of acceptable environmental standards regarding food handling, hygiene, sanitation, water quality, vector control as well as waste management. The incumbent is required to enforce Environmental Health Standards, formulate and implement policies, supervise staff, inspect sites and facilities, investigate complaints, measure environment quality indicators, prepare required reports and statistical data and manage the Department’s finances. The successful candidate must be able to implement programmes and educate the public on Environmental Health issues; grant licenses and permits as well as represent the Department at meetings, seminars and conferences.

An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Service for the post of Senior Social Worker, Department of Social Services. This is a specialized professional position, which has responsibility for identifying the welfare requirements of the elderly, orphans, juveniles, probationers, parolees and generally disadvantaged persons in the communities. The incumbent is responsible for interviewing and assessing the needs of clients and their families and collaborating with other departments and organizations to ensure that the needs of other disadvantaged persons in the communities are met. The incumbent will also be expected to generate results that are deemed to be satisfactory when policies and procedures are successfully implemented and monitored; the elderly, disabled and needy are identified in the society and steps are taken to ensure continued care and that welfare provisions and disbursements are made in a timely manner to those who fit the criteria. The incumbent will also assist in the formulation of Departmental policies and procedures for forester care, family programs and juveniles, counseling probationers and parolees. He / she is expected to assist in the preparation of the budget. The successful candidate must supervise Junior Officers as well as produce monthly progress reports.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

The position requires the incumbent to have a Master’s Degree in Environmental Health Department and at least (5) years on the job experience to acquire the necessary competencies to respond effectively to the challenges of the position. The incumbent should also possess sound knowledge of Environmental Health Standards and Procedures, Environmental Management Procedures, Environmental Impact Assessments and National Public Health Standards.

The position requires the incumbent to have Bachelors in Social Work or in a related field. The post holder is also expected to have at least five (5) years relevant social work experience. A background in psychiatry will be considered to be an asset. The successful candidate must also be knowledgeable in social work theories and practices and must be able to be confidential. He / She must also possess a valid driver’s license.

RENUMERATION PACKAGE:

RENUMERATION PACKAGE:

SALARY: $ 39,960.00 - $43,200.00 per annum

SALARY: $24,732.00 - $28,512.00 per annum

Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. For persons recruited outside the Turks and Caicos Islands a two (2) year contract is offered. Other benefits include Housing Allowance, end of contract gratuity of fifteen percent (15%), return passage for a family of up to two (2) children under the age of sixteen (16) years and duty free on the shipment of personal effects imported within six (6) months of the appointment.

For persons recruited outside the Turks and Caicos Islands a two (2) year contract is offered. Other benefits include Housing Allowance, end of contract gratuity of fifteen percent (15%), return passage for a family of up to two (2) children under the age of sixteen (16) years and duty free on the shipment of personal effects imported within six (6) months of the appointment.

For more information on the Job Description please contact the Office of the Public Service Management; Telephone 649-946-2801, Extension#: 10323.

All resumes with contact information and two letters of References as well as a Police Certificate should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Public Service Management, Church Folly, Grand Turk.

Facsimile: 946-1582, Email: recruitment@gov.tc

For more information on the Job Description please contact the Office of the Public Service Management; Telephone 649-946-2801, Extension#: 10322.

All resumes with contact information and two letters of References as well as a Police Certificate should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Public Service Management, Church Folly, Grand Turk.

Facsimile: 946-1582, Email: recruitment@gov.tc APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5th April 2012

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

March 31 - April 6, 2012

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

FAX: (649) 946-4661

PRELIMINARY NOTICE REGISTERED NURSE REQUIRED OF AUCTION SALES First Caribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd, as Chargee, pursuant to section 72 of the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the scheduled property outside of its offices at 1271 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands at 9:30 am on Thursday, April 05th 2012.

• Must have a Bachelors Degree in nursing from a recognized university and at least 3 years post qualification experience • Must be available to work part-time hours between 8am8pm daily plus weekends, holidays and overnight to meet the needs of the clinic • Must be eligible for registration with the local Health Practitioners Board • Must have experience in operating theatres assisting with gynecology cases • Must be willing to be flexible to meet the needs of the clinic • Must be highly computer literate • Must have experience with medical billing software and QuickBooks and advantage • Salary commensurate with experience

1. Gecko House, Turtle Tail, Providenciales

Title number 61004/5 Juba Salina, Providenciales. Residential property comprising 0.60 acres located on iron shore with spectacular panoramic ocean view property. Property comprises (i) a detached single-storey dwelling house with open plan living and dining area, kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, utility room and (ii) a detached two-storey building comprising a garage, a studio unit, office and upper level studio apartment with bedroom (good for rental), large living area, kitchen and bathroom.

Total gross floor area of the two buildings is approximately 4,930 square feet.

For more information please contact Mr. Corey Clarke, CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank, Head Office, Bridgetown, Barbados (Tel: 246 467 1654/email: corey.clarke@cibcfcib.com) or MCKNIGHTS International Law Firm, Attorneys at Law, 46 Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales (Telephone 649-941-2330/Fax 649-9412331/email: admin@mcknights.tc).

Please send CV to: Dr-gray@ live.com or fax to: 941-2386 Closing date: March 31st, 2012 NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

6468

6448

TCMillwork ltd.

Architectural woodworking, Cabinetry and Design South dock road, P.O. box 238 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

IMMEDIATE OPENING Director Of Maintenance Operations BNC Consulting Group is currently seeking to fill the open position of Director of Maintenance for its resort client.

The ideal candidate will be highly skilled and have day-to-day responsibility for maintenance operations, which includes defining the resort’s maintenance strategy, designing long and short-range project plans, and delivering results. This individual will be responsible for maintaining all equipment, systems and building components.

Minimum Requirements • Degree in Mechanical Engineering OR minimum 10 years experience as a Project Manager or Maintenance Engineer in a large, luxury hotel/resort • Excellent knowledge of maintenance operations, including mechanical, electrical and water treatment systems, pumps, HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, locks, furniture, paint, wall coverings, tile and other equipment/work performed by maintenance engineers • Strong knowledge of building codes, and fire, health and safety requirements, as well as current technologies and trends • Demonstrated ability to lead, train, mentor and develop a maintenance team • Ability to develop and manage strong working relationships at all levels of the organization, as well as with external vendors and suppliers • Ability to deliver results under pressure while handling multiple complex projects simultaneously • Excellent follow up and follow through with a commitment to continuous improvement • Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, Outlook) • Ability to develop, track and adhere to budgets Interested candidates should contact Bridgette Thomas at 332-2565 for immediate consideration. To qualify for consideration, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications, possess a clean police record, and be fluent in the English language.

Compensation for the above position is commensurate with level, experience and education.

CLOSING DATE: APRIL 15, 2012 ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.

Millshop Manager

Skills Required: • 5 years minimum in this position • Overseeing operation • Prepare and provide work, supplies, drawings to employees.

• Prepare orders for materials necessary for ongoing millshop operations in a timely and prudent manner.

• Delegation of work. Quality control. Ensuring the facilities at the millshop operate safely, efficiently and profitably, and are kept in clean working condition.

• Overseeing production schedules.

• Liaise with Owners, Purchasers, and consultants, site personnel, staff, employees, subcontractors and suppliers of TCMillwork in a professional and courteous manner.

• Certificate required: Carpentry-Cabinet making-Joinery • Working knowledge of AutoCad • High-end technical woodworking skills • Must have excellent leadership and communication skills, multi-lingual preferred • Professional, disciplined, punctual, reliable and affable Salary at $14.00 per hour

Molder operator

Skills Required: • 5 years work experience in woodworking, joinery and cabinet making.

• Trained to operate 5 heads molding machine.

Salary at $8.00 per hour

CNC operator Skills Required: • 5 years work experience in woodworking, joinery and cabinet making.

• Trained to operate CNC machine.

Salary at $8.00 per hour Skills required for all 3 positions below: • Individual must have previous experience with manufacture, construction, and installation of high end cabinetry.

• Must be familiar with operation of all current woodworking machinery and tools with proper safety practices.

• Must be able to read Auto-Cad drawings.

• English speaking, bilingual preferred.

Duties: Operate molder and CNC machin, cabinetmaking, refinishing, and installation.

Assist other employees in general millshop operations and maintenance. Must be professional and courteous.

Please send applications to: tcmillwork@tciway.tc contact person: Mario 231-2995

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March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

35

Science & Technology

Ancient foot suggests how man gave up tree houses this newfound relative of humanity was a tree-dweller – which suggests that, in turn, Australopithecus afarensis adapted to life walking on the ground.

“In biology, if you have two closely related species that live close to each other, they may start to diverge in what niches they occupy,” said researcher Bruce Latimer, a paleoanthropologist at Case Western Reserve University.

Since this newfound

Alcohol may reduce death in men who survived heart attack

ISLAND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES Is looking for a

Labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-5071 or 342-0275 6475

A new study found that men who drink after a heart attack lowers risk of death. (Getty Images).

of dying from any cause, when compared with teetotalers.

“For many men after experiencing a heart attack, major diet and lifestyle changes are recommended by their physicians,” said Dr. Jennifer Pai, lead author of the study and assistant professor of medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

“Our study indicates that for men already consuming moderate amounts of alcohol, continuing to consume moderate amounts after a heart attack may be beneficial for long-term survival.”

Pai noted that moderate alcohol consumption has long been associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease among healthy populations.

“More recently, some studies have suggested a beneficial effect of moderate alcohol consumption on reduced mortality among individuals with established heart disease, but the results were somewhat conflicting,” continued Pai. “Our study is the first to examine moderate alcohol consumption both before the men experienced their heart attack, and also after they survived the event.”

TOP O’ THE COVE

NEED DISHWASHER/ CLEANER NIGHTSHIFT Job requirements: @@ Mopping floors, cleaning restrooms washing dishes, general maintenance 4-11pm @@ Hourly rate $7.00-$9.00. Previous experience require. @@ Only Belongers need apply.

Contact: 946-4694

IBO BEAUTY SALON Is looking to fill he following positions:

Hairdresser Nail Technician

Must have at least 3 years experience any information contact: Maia Clare @ 343-9494 We are located downtown behind the ballpark 6500

Researcher Stephanie Melillo holds the fourth metatarsal of the Burtele partial foot right after its discovery. The team found eight bones from the front half of a right foot. Such hominin fossils are rare, since they are fragile and are often destroyed in the face of carnivores and decay. (CREDIT: © The Cleveland Museum of Natural History)

species between 3 million and 4 million years ago. These new fossils of an unknown hominin species are the first incontrovertible evidence that at least two pre-human species lived at the same time and place around 3.4 million years ago.

The fossils include eight bones from the front half of a right foot. Such hominin fossils are rare, since they are

fragile and subject to decay or carnivores.

While the big toe of Lucy’s species was lined up with the other four toes to make humanlike walking more efficient, the Burtele foot has an opposable big toe like a gorilla’s. This probably made the species more adept than Lucy’s at grasping branches and climbing trees.

(Livescience.com)

MANVELLA PRATT

MARTIN GRAY

Is looking for a

Is looking for the following persons:

Labourer/ Labourer Domestic Farmer Worker to work 5 Must be willing to work days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact; 343-0241 Contact: 243-3993 6497

PROVO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

UNITED CHRISTIAN BAPTIST CHURCH is looking to fill the following positions

Pastor – salary $300.00 per week

Invites applicants for the following positions:

Janitor Teacher

Musician

Christian Education Certified

– salary $650.00 per month

Provo Christian School

Must be on call and wherever needed 6460

A DAILY alcoholic beverage or two may be good for men who have survived a heart attack, according to new research published in the European Heart Journal.

The study, carried out by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, found that men who consumed two alcoholic drinks per day after their first heart attack were at lower risk of dying than non-drinking men. The type of drink did not have an effect on the results, but heavy drinkers had a risk of death that was similar to that of nondrinkers.

Researchers followed more than 1,800 men who survived a heart attack. The study participants filled out lifestyle questionnaires, and researchers found that men who drank about two alcoholic drinks per day had a 42 percent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular problems and a 12 percent reduced risk

hominin possessed feet good for climbing trees, “it does really hammer home the idea that Australopithecus afarensis might have been a bipedal animal that committed itself to the ground and walking long distances,” Latimer told LiveScience.

The 3.4-million-year-old fossils were discovered in 2009 in a part of Ethiopia known as Burtele. Nowadays this area is hot and dry, with temperatures skyrocketing up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius). But “nearby fossils of fish, crocodiles and turtles and physical and chemical characteristics of sediments show the environment was a mosaic of river and delta channels adjacent to an open woodland of trees and bushes,” said fellow Case Western researcher Beverly Saylor.

Scientists have long argued that Australopithecus afarensis was the only pre-human

6498

“Lucy.” This hominin is a leading candidate for direct ancestor of the human lineage, living about 2.9 million to 3.8 million years ago in East Africa.

Although Lucy and her kin were bipedal, there is debate about how much they depended on life in trees. Now scientists also have fossils of a hitherto unknown species of hominin that lived about the same time and place as Australopithecus afarensis. Judging by its feet,

Contact: 242-1197 or 341-0690

6464

Telephone: (649) 941-5775 or email: provochristianschool@ hotmail.com Deadline for applications is May 31st, 2012

6497

ANCIENT foot bones from a recently discovered pre-human species, which had opposable big toes like a gorilla’s, could shed light on how the ancestors of humanity came to walk upright, researchers say.

Humans dominate the planet partly because walking upright frees their hands for tool use. Among the earliest known relatives of humanity to walk upright was Australopithecus afarensis, the species including the famed

36

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Science & Technology

No sex required: women have orgasms at the gym WOMEN may not need a guy, a vibrator, or any other direct sexual stimulation to have an orgasm, finds a new study on exercise-induced orgasms and sexual pleasure.

The findings add qualitative and quantitative data to a field that has been largely unstudied, according to researcher Debby Herbenick, co-director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion at Indiana University. For instance, Alfred Kinsey and his colleagues first reported the phenomenon in 1953, saying that about 5 percent of women they had interviewed mentioned orgasm linked to physical exercise. However, they couldn’t know the actual prevalence because most of these women volunteered the information without being directly asked.

Since then, reports of socalled “coregasms,” named because of their seeming link to exercises for core abdominal muscles, have circulated in the media for years, according to the researchers.

“Despite attention in the popular media, little is known scientifically about exercise-

Hard times mean fewer baby boys, study suggests

induced orgasms,” the researchers write in a special issue of the journal Sexual and Relationship Therapy released in print this month.

PLEASURE AT THE GYM Herbenick and her colleagues used online surveys to gather their data, which included answers from 124 women who had experienced exerciseinduced orgasms and 246 women who reported exerciseinduced sexual pleasure. Most of the women, ages 18 to 63 and an average age of 30, were in a relationship or married and 69 percent said they were heterosexual.

The researchers found that about 40 percent of both groups of women had experienced exercise-induced pleasure or orgasm on more than 11 occasions in their lives. Most of the women in the “orgasm” group said they felt some level of embarrassment when exercising in public places.

The “orgasm” group mostly said during the experiences they weren’t having a sexual fantasy or thinking about someone they were attracted to.

Abdominal exercises account for 45 percent of the pleasures.

Of the women who had orgasms during exercise, about 45 percent said their first experience was linked to abdominal exercises; 19 percent linked to biking/ spinning; 9.3 percent linked to climbing poles or ropes; 7 percent reported a connection with weight lifting; 7 percent running; the rest of the experiences included various exercises, such as yoga, swimming, elliptical machines, aerobics and others.

Exercise-induced sexual pleasure was linked with more types of exercises than the orgasm phenomenon.

Answers to open-ended questions in the survey revealed some interesting details, the researchers found.

For instance, the abdominal exercises tied to orgasms seemed to be particularly associated with the exercise in which a person supports their weight on their forearms on a so-called captain’s chair with padded arm rests and then lifts their knees toward their chest.

The open-ended questions also revealed the orgasms tended to occur after multiple sets of crunches or some other abdominal exercise rather than after just a couple repetitions; they also seemed to happen after the woman had really exerted herself.

PREGNANT women are more likely to hear “It’s a girl!” when giving birth during famine conditions than when times are flush, according to a new study of the 1959-1961 Great Leap Forward famine in China.

The study reveals a dip in the ratio of boys born per girl during the famine years in the country, Shige Song, a demographer and sociologist at Queens College of the City University of New York, reports today (March 27) in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B. It’s not entirely clear what causes this dip, but evolutionary theory suggests that baby boys may be a genetic gamble for parents, and thus not the best bet when times are lean.

“Investment on male children is a high-risk, high-return game, so you want to do it only if you are in very good situation,” Song told LiveScience.

This theory has been around since the 1970s. Males can father lots of offspring, Song explained, so a successful male child has a good chance of passing on genes. But when males fail to mate, they tend to do so spectacularly — a non-dominant lion in a pride ruled by alpha male is pretty unlikely to get a chance to pass on his genes even once, Song said.

“In the evolutionary sense,

the parental investment on these male lions would be wasted,” he said.

Female offspring are the slow-and-steady bet. They’ll likely produce a few offspring no matter what, but they don’t have the fecundity of males. That makes them, theoretically, a safer but less lucrative bet for the passing on of genes, Song said.

“In good conditions, invest in sons; in poor conditions, invest in daughters,” he said.

“The evolutionary argument goes that anybody who can do this survives, anybody who cannot, they go away.”

Sex-ratio changes have been seen in animals, including bison, which have more male offspring when it rains and food is plentiful. The question, then, is: Does sex ratio change in humans in response to the outside environment? On average across the globe, 106 boys are born for every 100 girls (boys are slightly less likely to survive after birth, evening out the gender ratio). But what’s less understood is why this gender ratio occurs and if it can ever change, Song said.

VACANCY Interhealth Canada (TCI) Ltd is seeking to find qualified person to fill the following position

Seamstress/Laundry Attendant The successful candidate should: • be able to work in a Healthcare laundry setting • Have a minimum of 5 years experience as a Seamstress • Have at least 2 years experience working in a laundry and operating laundry equipment such as: washers, dryers, pressers and irons.

• Be able to read, write, and speak English fluently.

• Be willing to work shifts and on public holidays.

• Be in good health and be able to stand for long hours.

These positions seek individuals with no criminal record.

Salary, dependent on experience, will be above min wage. The closing date is the 16th April.

Please leave applications at the reception desk in Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and ensure a contact number or email address is attached.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

37

Woods returns to winning ways Stuart Lancaster signs a contract until January 2016.

Stuart Lancaster named permanent England rugby coach STUART Lancaster has been named permanent England head coach on a contract until January 2016.

The 42-year-old was interim boss for the Six Nations, after Martin Johnson resigned, and led England to second place with four wins from five matches.

“I am immensely honoured and proud to accept this role,” said Lancaster, who was interviewed for the job, along with former South Africa coach Nick Mallett.

The contract runs until after the 2015 Rugby World Cup hosted in England.

Lancaster’s first major task as permament head coach will be picking a squad for the three-Test tour of South Africa in June.

Later this year England play Fiji, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand on consecutive weekends in their autumn programme.

“We have a massive task ahead of us in South Africa this summer and we have 37 games before that first World Cup match on home soil, so every second counts in developing players who can win that tournament - which has to be the ultimate aim,” said Lancaster.

Forwards coach Graham Rowntree is expected to remain part of Lancaster’s team but he faces a battle to retain Andy Farrell, who acted as backs and defence coach during the Six Nations.

Saracens are reluctant to release Farrell from his job as first-team coach at the club.

Lancaster was the number one choice with players, with back-row forward Phil Dowson saying the whole squad would back him.

“We spoke to him at the end [of the Six Nations] and I think he was absolutely exhausted because he left no stone unturned in terms of creating an environment and an atmosphere that was akin to a club,” said Dowson.

A former director of rugby at Leeds, Lancaster was in charge of England’s Saxons second team and elite player development at the RFU before taking over the national team.

As temporary boss, the former school teacher helped restore morale and reputation following England’s dismal World Cup campaign, which saw a quarter-final exit and was marred by off-field controversies.

(BBC)

TIGER Woods is once again golf’s big hit. His five-shot win at Bay Hill was his first win on the PGA Tour since his career was turned upside down by revelations about his private life.

This victory came at the start of a week in which the book written by his former coach Hank Haney is published. “The Big Miss” is the most revealing account yet of Woods’ life.

But the former world number one has spiked its guns with his dramatic return to winning ways.

America loves a story of redemption and Woods has ensured that now the talk will be of his golf more than the revelations contained in Haney’s book.

And the even more significant aspect of the timing of this victory is that it came in Woods’ final outing before he challenges for a fifth Masters green jacket. He has sent a powerful message to the golfing world and to himself that he is back where he belongs at the top of the game.

Of course there are no guarantees.

In 2009, as he unwittingly headed towards the car crash that prompted his private life being laid bare, Woods won in each of his last appearances before majors and on all four occasions failed to go on to add to his tally of grand slam titles.

But walking the fairways with the newly installed world number six was a rare privilege last week. To see and hear the quality of his ball striking was to witness something very special.

From the tee he was imperious, relentlessly finding fairways and not sacrificing length in the process.

Tiger Woods held off Graeme McDowell to win the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Photo: Getty.

From being one of the most erratic drivers on tour he has become one of the most reliable.

Woods’ approach play was less spectacular. He found greens rather than pins, and it will need to be more precise at Augusta, but his putting grew progressively more reliable as the tournament went on.

Admittedly the top five players in the world skipped the Arnold Palmer Invitational but this was still a fullfield event and the win is way more significant than his victory at his own limited-field event at the end of last year.

Woods will relish the fact that it is his golf rather than Haney’s book that is the talking point heading towards the first major of the year.

He is entitled to feel that way because confidences were betrayed by his former coach in making so much of Woods’ life public property.

Haney admits that he knew Woods would be the last tour player he would teach and, by writing this book, he has ensured that will be the

case.

It does not take away from the fact that the coach has composed a compelling read about a character who has never failed to fascinate the sporting public. For golf fans there are extraordinary insights into how Haney went about teaching the greatest golfing talent the game has ever known.

There are also anecdotes aplenty that portray a figure beset by social inadequacy. They are largely told within context which is something that was lost when advanced extracts of the book were published in various outlets.

Haney describes Woods’ obsession with the military, his love of warbased video games and the tumultuous period in early 2010 when the 14-times major champion went into rehab for treatment for sex addiction.

But essentially it is a golf book and most likely Woods will be more upset at the revealing of his trade secrets than anything else. (Iain Carter/BBC)

Magic Johnson group to buy Los Angeles Dodgers

A GROUP that includes former basketball star Earvin “Magic” Johnson will acquire the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion, the team said

Tuesday night.

The price is the most ever paid for a North American sports franchise, according to MLB.com. The group

Former Los Angeles Lakers star Earvin “Magic” Johnson is part of a group that has agreed to buy the Los Angeles Dodgers.

will officially acquire the team, one of baseball’s most storied franchises, after the deal is approved by the judge overseeing the Dodgers’ bankruptcy.

The team has won the World Series championship six times and, for decades, boasted an intensely loyal fan base.

But in recent years, under the ownership of real estate developer Frank McCourt, the Dodgers made headlines more for their financial woes than for their home runs.

The team’s troubles began when McCourt and his wife, Jamie, decided to part ways. An acrimonious and expensive divorce battle followed.

The couple fought bitterly over ownership of the team. In April 2011, Major League Baseball took charge of the beleaguered team.

Two months later, the team filed for bankruptcy.

In October, McCourt announced that he and his wife had reached a settlement. He is scheduled to pay her $131 million, MLB.com reported. Attorneys’ fees alone could reach $35 million.

In an effort to hold on to the team, McCourt tried to score a $3 billion television deal with Fox, but it was rejected by Commissioner Bud Selig.

Johnson said the sale will start a new chapter for the Dodgers.

“I am thrilled to be part of the historic Dodger franchise and intend to build on the fantastic foundation laid by Frank McCourt as we drive the Dodgers back to the front page of the sports section in our wonderful community of Los Angeles,” said

Johnson, a former Los Angeles Laker who is an icon in his own right.

Along with Johnson, the group acquiring the team includes Stan Kasten, a former executive with the Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals, and Guggenheim Partners CEO Mark Walter.

Some members of the group will also partner with McCourt to acquire Dodger Stadium and several other nearby properties for $150 million.

Legendary former Dodgers coach Tommy Lasorda applauded the sale, saying he has faith in both Johnson and Kasten.

“I’m very impressed with both of them, and I just hope that they can bring the championship to the greatest fans in all of baseball,” Lasorda said Wednesday.

38

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Pacquiao squares up to tax man WORLD boxing champion Manny Pacquiao says he intends to fight criminal charges that he failed to submit the proper tax documents for his earnings from boxing matches and his many commercial endorsements.

The eight-time world champion, who is also a politician, could face up to two years in jail if found guilty, but officials from the Philippines Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said the matter could be easily resolved if Pacquiao submits the proper documents.

Pacquiao’s lawyers said the boxer -- who was in the United States training for a fight with Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez when the BIR issued a subpoena last month -- was not given enough time to comply with the request.

Pacquiao declared assets at the end of 2010 of 1.13 billion pesos ($26.3 million) and no liabilities, making him the country’s wealthiest lawmaker. He told a press conference on Monday that he had been marked out for harassment by the BIR. “Why the BIR singled me out smacks of bad faith designed to tarnish my reputation,” he said.

His business manager Eric Pineda told CNN that Pacquiao had never avoided paying taxes.

“It’s just a matter of people jumping the gun,” he said. “They should have done this in private

American tennis star Serena Williams is a fivetime winner of the Miami hard-court tournament.

The eight-time world champion Manny Pacquiao could face up to two-years in jail if found guilty of tax fraud.

rather than going to the media in an attempt to get Manny’s attention.”

Philippines Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima told local media that no one was above investigation by the BIR, adding that Pacquiao was taking the issue personally.

“I don’t think the BIR will dare harass an eight-time world champion,” Purisima said. “We love and respect [Pacquiao] and we wish him the best -- he is a national icon. But at the same time we have a duty to make sure that we review everyone’s income tax return.”

The flamboyant boxer-turnedpolitician -- arguably the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter -- has recently

been he subject of several colourful stories concerning his career.

Last week, Pacquiao said in a radio interview he had a dream in which God had told him to hang up his gloves, fueling speculation he may back out of a long-anticipated fight with American Floyd Mayweather.

Boxing fans have long sought a fight between Mayweather and Pacquiao. The pair was in negotiations for a fight to be held later this year but talks fell through.

Pacquiao, 33, has a 54-3 winloss record with two draws, while 34-year-old Mayweather has won all 42 of his professional fights, 26 by knockout. (CNN)

Wozniacki ends Serena’s hopes of record sixth Miami title SERENA Williams bemoaned the amount of unforced errors she made after suffering a quarterfinal defeat to fellow former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki at the Miami Masters.

The 13-time grand slam winner smashed 34 winners during her clash with the fourth-seeded Dane, but made as many errors in Tuesday’s 6-4 6-4 defeat.

The American has won the U.S. hard-court event five times, a feat matched only by Steffi Graf. She is on the comeback trail after a 2011 season which was blighted by injury and illness, including life-threatening blood clots on both lungs.

“I think I just struggled a bit with a lot of errors more than anything,”

the 30-year-old told the WTA Tour website. “She did well, she moved well, and I just made too many errors.

Sometimes you’re not playing well.

But you have to be able to play better.

“The good thing, though, is I could have played a lot better. I probably played about 20%. It would really suck if I couldn’t do any better.

I’m just looking forward to the next tournament and I’ll try not to dwell on this too much.”

Wozniacki, who lost her place at the top of the world rankings to Victoria Azarenka following the Belorussian’s triumph at the Australian Open, was pleased to advance after a late rally from Williams.

Drugs cheats deserve second chance - Edwin Moses DOUBLE gold medallist and antidrugs campaigner Edwin Moses believes drug cheats should be given a second chance to compete at the Olympics.

The former 400m hurdles record holder was in a group of athletes who pushed for tighter testing in the 1980s.

But he told BBC Scotland: “Once you serve your penalty, you serve your penalty and you go back to it.

“If you go out and drive drunk, you’ll get your drivers’ licence back eventually. That’s much more critical.”

Scottish cyclist David Millar and English sprinter Dwain Chambers are among those who have been given a lifetime ban by the British Olympic Association.

That policy is being considered by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with the BOA challenging a ruling by the World Anti-Doping Agency that the Olympic ban is unenforceable.

But, ahead of a decision expected next month, Moses backs countries like his own who allow those who have tested positive to return to the sport once they have served their ban.

Speaking in Dunblane at a Sportscotland high performance conference, he said: “I know, in the United States, our Olympic

Narain Karthikeyan is upset that Sebastian Vettel reacted the way he did after their crash.

Edwin Moses feels that every athlete deserves a second chance.

committee supported LaShawn Merritt, who tested positive a couple of years ago, in his efforts to be eligible to compete in the Olympics.

“That case was won. There’s no doubt that there’s going to be many athletes at the Games who have perhaps had positive drug tests.

“The United States anti-doping agency supported Merritt as there should be a redemptive value in sports.

“I would be more concerned about the people who are going to habitually drive under the influence of alcohol.”

Moses, who won 122 consecutive races and set the world record in his event four times, believes that

today’s sport is much fairer than when he was competing.

“It was not just myself,” he recalled of the campaign for improved drug testing.

“It was a group of seven or eight athletes, some of whom were tired of getting beat by people that they previously were in front of.

“And that was the real impetus to have a fair and level playing field.

“This was back in the late 80s. We knew that having drug control out of competition was the way to control that.

“More athletes have a chance of having a level playing field today than probably did when I was competing.” (BBC)

Sebastian Vettel is a cry baby, says Narain Karthikeyan HRT’s Narain Karthikeyan has described world champion Sebastian Vettel as a “cry baby” for criticising the Indian driver after the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Vettel called Karthikeyan an “idiot” after their collision as the Red Bull man was lapping his HRT. The incident cost Vettel fourth place.

Speaking to the Hindustan Times, 35-year-old Karthikeyan described Vettel as “unprofessional”.

He added: “For a world champion to say things like that is really shameful.”

Vettel ended up finishing 11th in Malaysia after dropping down the field with damage caused in the collision with Karthikeyan.

The result leaves the man, who has won the title for the last two years, sixth in the championship, 17 points adrift of the leader, Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso.

In German, Vettel used the word “gurken” - cucumber - to describe Karthikeyan’s driving - a common insult used about bad drivers on the road.

Karthikeyan said: “It is really unprofessional. For a driver who has achieved so much to take out his frustrations on me just because he is having a difficult year is really sad.

“One does not expect a professional sportsman to be such a cry baby.” (BBC)

March 31 - April 6, 2012

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McIlroy turns Augusta tragedy into major triumph

Ferrari driver Felipe Massa (right) has been with the Italian team since 2006.

Ferrari boss backs struggling Massa LAST weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix was an encouraging race for Ferrari, with Fernando Alonso’s victory lifting some of the gloom which had descended over the legendary Italian team after a disappointing preseason.

But while double world champion Alonso celebrated an unlikely triumph in one garage, the mood was considerably more sombre in the camp of his teammate Felipe Massa.

The Brazilian has seen his position at Formula One’s most successful team constantly called into question, having struggled to recapture his best form after fracturing his skull during a freak accident at the 2009 Hungarian Grand Prix.

The former Sauber driver’s downturn continued with a disappointing 15th-place finish at the Sepang International Circuit, having failed to finish the season-opening race in Australia after colliding with Williams’ Bruno Senna.

But Ferrari’s team principal Stefano Domenicali has backed the 30-year-old to answer his critics.

“I well remember that, four years ago, in fact right after a Malaysian Grand Prix, which was won for us by

Kimi Raikkonen, Felipe was more or less in the same situation as today,” Domenicali told the team’s official website.

“The papers were demanding his immediate replacement and he managed to react in the best way possible, thanks to support from the team, which saw him win two of the next three races.”

In 2008, Massa was denied his first world title in heartbreaking circumstances.

He won the season-ending Brazilian Grand Prix and began celebrating, but was denied the championship by one point as McLaren’s British driver Lewis Hamilton overtook Timo Glock on the final corner to finish fifth and steal the glory.

“We remember how that particular season ended, with the Brazilian actually world champion, even if it was just for a few seconds, while we took our sixteenth Constructors’ title,” Domenicali said.

He also revealed that, instead of spending time with his family ahead of the next race in China on April 15, Massa is heading to Italy to work with the team at Ferrari’s home base.

(BBC)

AFTER a gut-wrenching collapse on the final day of the 2011 Masters, questions were asked about Rory McIlroy’s mental fortitude and his ability to compete for golf’s major honours.

But two months later, at June’s U.S. Open, the Northern Irishman produced a resounding response to his doubters by romping to a record-breaking eight-shot victory at Congressional.

When the eyes of the golfing world fall on Augusta next month for the first major of 2012, it will offer the world No. 2 a chance to reflect on how he turned a soul-crushing low into a redemptive high.

“Last year’s Masters was definitely a defining moment for me,” the 22-year-old told the European Tour’s website when asked about the tournament eventually won by South African Charl Schwartzel.

“It could have been a crossroads in my career. I could have done what I did on Sunday at Augusta and let it affect me and let it get to me, and maybe go into a slump, or get down or feel sorry for myself.”

But far from wallowing in self pity, McIlroy excelled at the next major. His 16-under-par total of 268 bettered a record previously held by 14-time championship winner Tiger Woods at Pebble Beach in 2000.

After clinching a first major in 2011, McIlroy reached another career landmark early in the 2012 season.

He became the youngest world No. 1 since Woods with victory at Palm Beach earlier this month, usurping Ryder Cup teammate Luke Donald.

“It was a big crossroads for me in my career,” he said. “I was able to go down the right path and put things right by winning the next major.

“All I wanted to do was put myself

Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy reached the top of the world rankings for the first time earlier this month.

in that position again just to see if I could handle it better -- and I proved to myself that I could.”

McIlroy admitted one of the biggest mistakes he made during the final round of last year’s Masters was to become preoccupied with his rivals, rather than focusing on his own game.

It is an error he is keen to avoid on his fourth visit to the Augusta National Golf Club.

“One of the worst things I did was just trying to stay ahead of everyone else. Instead, I maybe should have had a number in my head, like getting to 15 under. That way, you have a target, and that’s all you’re thinking about.

“You’re not thinking about all these guys you’re trying to keep ahead of. All you’re thinking about is that target of 15 under ... You can’t let your mind wander and start thinking about what anyone else is doing.”

Donald regained the No.1 spot with victory at the recent Transitions Championships.

Nevertheless, McIlroy’s profile in the U.S. remains high.

Partly, it is due to his contrasting experiences at the Masters and then the U.S. Open. But his romance with former world No. 1 tennis ace Caroline Wozniacki has also ensured he is firmly in the media spotlight.

(BBC)

Barcelona held to goalless draw BARCELONA will need to beat AC Milan at the Nou Camp to ensure their place in the Champions League semi-finals after being held to a goalless draw in Italy.

The defending champions’ claims for a penalty were turned down when Alexis Sanchez fell under Christian Abbiati’s challenge in a dominant first half.

But Robinho and Zlatan Ibrahimovic had clear openings at the other end as AC Milan threatened on the break.

Cristian Tello was denied by a last-ditch block as Barca ran out of ideas.

The sides played out two pulsating games in Group H earlier in the tournament and AC Milan once again provided a fascinating counter to Barcelona’s staccato passing style.

With the winners set to play the winners of Chelsea and Benfica’s quarter-final, the Serie A leaders maintained their record of never having lost a home quarter-final tie in the competition.

The visitors created a raft of excellent chances in the opening half as they weaved passing patterns around Milan’s defensive veterans Alessandro Nesta and Massimo Ambrosini.

But their finishing could not match the precision of their build-up play.

Xavi’s toe-poke was clawed away

by Christian Abbiati after a sharp one-two with Lionel Messi, before Sanchez could not quite burn off the pursuing Luca Antonini, allowing the left-back to get in a last-ditch block.

The Catalan side also had a strong claim for a penalty turned down by the officials after Sanchez was upended after he had peeled off the end of the Milan wall as part of a clever free-kick routine. (BBC) Messi was held scoreless

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March 31 - April 6, 2012

Olympic preparations impress IOC THE LONDON 2012 Olympics have provided a “legacy blueprint” for future Games, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has said.

Jacques Rogge’s praise came after he was given an update on preparations by Prime Minister David Cameron at the start of a final three-day IOC visit.

“London has raised the bar on how to deliver a lasting legacy,” he said.

Mr Cameron assured the IOC that promises on security and transport and a lasting legacy would be delivered.

Welcoming the IOC delegates, who are in London to ensure everything is going according to plan for the start of the Games on 27 July, Mr Cameron said London would deliver “the greatest show on Earth”.

He said being chosen to host the Games was “an extraordinary honour for the UK and we intend to repay that faith”.

He added: “I believe the message is clear: London will be ready, on time and on budget.

“The true legacy of London 2012 lies in the future. Though much has been done, I am acutely aware that the drive to embed and secure the benefits of London 2012 is still to

Andres Flores (20) celebrates the late goal by Jaime Alas (right) that gave El Salvador a 3-3 draw.

Prime Minister David Cameron updated the International Olympic Committee on preparations.

come.

“That is our biggest challenge. It’s also our greatest opportunity.”

The IOC inspection coincides with the publication of the government’s “Beyond 2012” plan, which outlines the sporting, economic, regeneration and community legacy of the Games.

The School Games are part of the effort to encourage young people to get involved in sporting events.

Finalists from the School Games were among those at a reception at 10 Downing Street, hosted by the prime minister and the Princess Royal.

Lord Coe, chairman of the London

Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (Locog), said: “London 2012 will be a summer of sport and celebration like no other. But it will only be the start of the journey.

“My dream is that millions of young people, here and overseas, will witness the achievements of the finest sportspeople on the planet and be inspired to take up sport for themselves.”

IOC president Mr Rogge met Mr Cameron, Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, London 2012 chairman Lord Coe and Sports Minister Hugh Robertson at Downing Street.

Madrid and Chelsea both claim away wins KARIM Benzema scored twice as Real Madrid won 3-0 at APOEL Nicosia to all but secure their place in the European Champions League semifinals.

And Jose Mourinho’s side could well be joined in the last four by his former side Chelsea, who claimed a vital 1-0 success at Benfica courtesy of Salomon Kalou’s late strike.

APOEL have been the fairytale story of this season’s Champions League, entering the competition at the qualification stage they have continued to surprise more illustrious opponents to become the first Cypriot side to reach the quarterfinal stage.

But, against the Spanish league leaders, APOEL always looked second best, failing to register a single shot on target in the whole of the 90 minutes, while conceding a remarkable 72% possession to their opponents.

However, despite their dominance, Real needed three goals in the final 15 minutes to confirm their superiority.

And it was French international Benzema who finally broke the deadlock, heading home a cross from substitute Kaka.

Kaka himself added the second

Karim Benzema scored twice for Real Madrid in their comfortable victory in Cyprus.

goal when slotting home a Marcelo pass, while Benzema secured a comfortable victory in the final minute when turning home Mesut Ozil’s cross.

Madrid now appear certain to face either Bayern Munich or Marseille in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, caretaker manager Roberto Di Matteo continues to turn Chelsea’s fortunes around, following the dismissal of previous coach Andre Villas-Boas, as the London club secured a superb 1-0 victory at Benfica.

Villas-Boas had been criticised

for not using Chelsea’s experienced older players enough during his tenure at Stamford Bridge.

But his former assistant Di Matteo chose to leave top stars like Didier Drogba, Michael Essien and Frank Lampard on the bench -- and his decision was vindicated with Chelsea’s first away win in Europe this season.

A tight match was settled 15 minutes from time when Ivory Coast international Kalou jabbed home Fernando Torres’ cross from close range as Benfica slumped to a rare home defeat.

U.S. football team eliminated from London Olympics by El Salvador THE UNITED States men’s Olympic football team had its hopes dashed Monday night after a dramatic late goal killed its chances of going to London.

A goal in the 95th minute, during stoppage time, pulled El Salvador to a 3-3 tie and knocked the U.S. team out of qualifying contention.

A victory would have put the U.S. for Saturday’s semifinals as winner of Group A in the CONCACAF region tournament.

It is the second time the U.S. failed to qualify for the Olympics since 1976, according to the U.S. soccer team website, having also missed out in 2004.

The last time the El Salvador men’s team made it to the Olympics was in 1968.

The Central American side finished top of the group on goal difference from Canada, which conceded a late equaliser in Monday’s 1-1 draw with Cuba and will now play the winner of the other pool on Saturday.

The U.S. team got out to a quick lead in Nashville when forward Terrence Boyd scored a goal inside the first minute, but El Salvador stormed back scoring two goals in the 35th and 38th minutes through Lester Blanco and Andres Flores.

The Americans regained the lead with quickfire goals in the 65th and 68th minutes from Boyd and Joe Corona, but could not hold on.

El Salvador’s Jaime Alas blasted a shot from some 25 yards out with about one minute left in the match, and the ball bounced off the hands of goalkeeper Sean Johnson before darting into the goal.

The El Salvador players celebrated while some U.S. players fell to the pitch, inconsolable.

“It’s a painful moment. The players are devastated. To put in as much as they put in that game, the amount of heart they put in, to play the way they played in that second half to come from behind and score two goals, to be seconds

away from getting the No. 1 seed, it’s unimaginable,” said head coach Caleb Porter.

WEBB TO RUN UNOPPOSED FOR CONCACAF PRESIDENCY THE Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced today that Jeffrey Webb of the Cayman Islands is the only candidate nominated for the organisation’s open president position and will run unopposed in May’s election.

Webb, President of the Cayman Islands Football Association for the past 21 years, received nominations from 29 CONCACAF member associations, though only one was required for his name to be placed on the ballot.

The election will take place on May 23 at the CONCACAF Congress in Budapest, Hungary.

“I would like to acknowledge and thank the CONCACAF member associations from across the Confederation that have demonstrated their confidence in me through their support of my nomination for president.” expressed Webb. “I look forward to working with all of the members to strengthen our foundation and build on our unity which has always been our strength.”

Webb will complete the final three years of the term of former President Jack Warner, who resigned last June after a 20-year tenure. Warner was re-elected to a sixth-consecutive, four-year stint last May at the CONCACAF Ordinary Congress in Miami, Florida.

In addition to his duties with the Cayman Islands Football Association, the 47-year-old banker is Chairman of the Caribbean Football Union’s Normalization Committee. Additionally, Webb is Deputy Chairman of FIFA’s Internal Audit Committee and a member of its Transparency and Compliance Committee.

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Christopher McFarlane was ultra aggressive in his score of 90 runs.

HAB Group/Gansevoort Resort T20 Cricket:

Beaches’ McFarlane punishes Police with 90 runs – Bhagwandas bowls Jaguars to another win BEACHES ensured that the Police cricket team’s agonising run in the HAB Group/Gansevoort Resort T20 cricket competition continues after a 16-run victory due mostly to the aggressive batting of Christopher McFarlane.

McFarlane slammed 13 fours and three sixes in his score of 90 to propel his team to a massive 229-5 against the defending T-20 champions. Osmond Sicard scored 41 runs (8X4s) while Yohan Grant added 25.

Bowling for the Police team Lyndon Tyson took 2-35 from four overs while Tony Hutchings took 2-45 from the same amount of overs.

When Police batted they made a spirited run, but fell short at 2137 from their 20 overs. Grantley Williams led the attack with 37 runs

(5X4s, 2X6s) and Sabuton John and Ira Baptist added 32 each.

Bowling for Beaches Odayne Ewart and Ancell Williams took two wickets each.

On Sunday also at the Downtown Ballpark, a five-wicket haul from Jaguars’ captain Munesh Bhagwandas against Jam Turk ensured that his team remained unbeaten.

Jaguars won the toss and scored 183-6 with Sheldon Henry on 47 (8X4s), Mark Austin unbeaten on 40 (7X4s, 2X6s) and Sean Khan on 32 (4X4s and 1X6).

Bowling for Jam Turk Dane Ritchie took 2-24 from three overs and Athol Gibson nabbed 2-38 from four overs.

In reply Jam Turk were dismissed for 129 in the 17th over.

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Action in the junior rugby game.

Junior Rugby:

Late comeback earns Bears a draw against Warriors THE VIX Warriors dominated proceedings against the BCQS Bears on Saturday, but had to settle for a draw when unable to repel a strong finish from their opponents in their Under-19 rugby clash.

Edwardo Villanueva led the Warriors attack superbly, creating one try and scoring another to have his team up 2 – 0 after just a few minutes of the first half.

The Bears struggled to string any significant possession together despite Franco Mompremier’s best efforts. Mompremier was a bit of a lone ranger for the Bears in the first half, although Reuben Adams did carry the ball strongly on a couple of occasions. Any potential raids into the Warriors’ territory were repelled

by a strong defence, with no one more impressive than Edward Jean who made several telling tackles.

The Warriors’ safer ball security led to two more tries before halftime and it was beginning to look a bit tough for the Bears.

Things looked decidedly more difficult for them just after the break when the Warriors combined beautifully for another try based on excellent support play. The 5 – 0 lead this created seemed to finally awaken the hibernating Bears and Mompremier found more support in Luis Turbyfield to combine for a couple of quick tries to ensure an exciting finish.

The Warriors appeared to tire but with just a few minutes

remaining their lead of 5 – 2 looked secure. However the Bears, and in particular Lincoln Outten, stepped up a gear. Outten had been very quiet throughout the match, but showed his creativity and finishing ability by quickly scoring two individual tries and setting up another. His second try, scored on the stroke of fulltime, earned his team a hard fought draw and would have left the Warriors disappointed at not being able to hold on quite long enough. Jean was everywhere for the Warriors though and his outstanding defence earned him the man-of-the-match award.

Both sides have plenty to work on and will continue to do so as Under 19s rugby continues at the Meridian Field this Saturday at 10 am.

Island Fire Supplies Girls Development League:

Championship trophy still up for grabs WITH one round of games remaining it is going to go right down to the wire to determine who will be crowned champions of the Island Fire Supplies Girls Development League. The league standings are very close and all three teams have a chance to win although the All Stars are perhaps favourites as they have a two-point lead at the top of the table.

An exciting opening game in the second-to-last round was settled with the last kick of the game as Sarah Cenary ran on to Yarileny De La Cruz incisive pass to give the Western Warriors a 3-2 win against league leaders Provo All Stars.

The game was full of end-to-end action as the All Stars scored early on through Janice Fernandez who proved she is the fastest teenager in the country as she out-sprinted the Warriors’ defence to open the scoring. However, the All Stars’ lead

was short lived as Cenary equalised within two minutes. The score remained the same until five minutes from time when De La Cruz scored a well taken goal after good work from Cydnee Campbell and Nideka Missick. The All Stars proved their resilience as Kadine moved into attack to push for an equaliser and this tactic proved effective as she raced through to score with just one minute remaining. Yet there was still one twist to the tale as Cenary gave her team a much needed win when she scored her second goal of the match.

In the second game the Warriors and the Eastern Eagles shared the spoils with an entertaining 1-1 draw.

Both teams played attacking football, but neither team could break the deadlock after Chrystal Stirling had opened the scoring for the Eagles and Sarah Cenary had pulled the Warriors

Trincy Reid is chased by Jachelle Gardiner.

levelled. Cenary was a constant threat throughout the game but was well marked by Shinaydine Pluviose, who has become one of the most accomplished defenders in the country.

In the final game neither the All Stars nor the Eagles could find the back of the net as the game finished 0-0.

Technical Director Matthew Green was very pleased with the day’s games: “This league is very competitive, but it is also serving its purpose by giving a lot of our younger players more time on the field at the 11-a-side format. I am impressed with how a lot of the younger players are adapting to the

game, girls like Magreny St. Louis, Deasia Ewing, Cydnee Campbell and Shernaria Morris are doing a great job. This league has been a great success and I am sure we will run it again later in the year”.

MVP for week three was Shinaydine Pluviose who attends Clement Howell High School.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012

Provo Hockey League:

Gators, Lightning and Pirates take title

THE Gansevoort Gators the Coco Bistro Lightning and the Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates are the

2011/2012 Provo Hockey League champions.

The teams won the Mini, Bantam

and Midget divisions respectively last Saturday in a best-in-three final of the PHL.

The Coco Bistro Lightning held off the Hurricanes to win the Bantam Division

The TWA Marcelin Wolf Pirates fought back to take the Midget Division title after a somewhat shaky regular season.

The Gators and the Pirates claimed two consecutive wins, while the Lightning had to play the Saunders and Co. Hurricanes a third time to ensure an overall victory.

For the Gators the win over the Gracebay Car Rentals and Sales Owls was by a margin of 7-4. Dylan Ayer scored three times and made an assist for the winners, while there were two goals each for Carson Greatrex and Zachary Scholar and two assists for Oliver French. Tristan Grandsire scored twice to lead the

attack for the Owls.

Livingston Ferdinand scored three goals to force a 3-2 win for the Hurricanes in the Bantam division.

The Lightning, however, bounced back to win the championship with a 6-3 win in the third and decisive game. Javiera Bovell led the winners with three goals.

In the Midget division the Pirate defeated the Carib Gaming Panthers 3-2 and picked up the spoils after Gabriel Diotte-Joly was on target for all three strikes.

PABA Nightly League:

South Caicos and Flyers close in on finals SOUTH Caicos and the Flyers, the best two teams in the regular season, continued their dominance in the knockout stages of the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Nightly League and are one win each from the finals.

The best in five semi-finals could end this weekend, if the two dominant teams win again.

On Friday last the Flyers got past the Lions 90-88 after Anthony Pratt led the attack with 21 points, eight steals and five boards. Kino Williams did the bulk of the scoring for the Lion (20 points, six steals and five rebounds). In the second clash on Saturday night the Flyers soared about the Lions 112-101. Anthony Cash cashed in with 31 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and five steals, while

Chad Campbell had a huge double-double (25 points and 16 rebounds) to go with five blocks and five assists.

South Caicos Harbour Boys, who are yet to lose a game, just got past the Knights 86-85 in their first semi-final clash on Friday night. Jonathon Paul led the attack for the winners with 22 points and eight rebounds, but the Knights’ Saundro Jermain led all scores with 25 points and eight boards. Saturday’s game was by a more comprehensive margin as the Knights loss 78-66.

Paul scored 20 points and again pulled down 10 boards, while Emilio Seymour had 19 points and a whopping 20 rebounds. On the opposing end T. Lightbourne also had a double-double with 14 points, 16 rebounds and five assists.

WIV Provo Premier League:

Cheshire Hall FC play undefeated to title

The Gansevoort Gators are the Mini Division champions.

CHESHIRE Hall FC’s undefeated run in the WIV Provo Premier League has handed them the title before the full quota of games have ended.

The victory came against closest competitors the SWA Sharks 1-0 on Saturday last.

The deadlock between the sides was broken by a headed goal after 40 minutes from Navar Cumberland

following some slack marking in the Sharks’ box.

The win pushed the champs to 19 points in seven games; having won six to go with a draw.

Sharks are on 10 points from six games, while the AFC Academy have eight points (seven games), HAB FC four points (five games) and Pedagogue FC four points (seven games).

March 31 - April 6, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 31 - April 6, 2012