TC Weekly News April 13 - 19, 2024

Justice Anthony Gruchot

Premier, Hon C.W. Misick

The MOU was signed in the presence of Premier and Minister of Finance, Investment Hon Charles Washington Misick; Chair of NIB, Mr Trevor Cooke; Minister of Education Hon Rachel Taylor; Minister of Health Hon Shaun Malcolm; Deputy Premier Hon Jamell Robinson and Legal Counsel for NIB, Mr Leroy Tull.

NIB and NHIB ink MoU to merge functions and improve efficiency

BY OLIVIA ROSE

To improve efficiency and service, the National Insurance Board (NIB) and the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to share the functions of registration, collections, and compliance.

The two organisations have long been aware of the many commonalities in their operations, and in 2012, a feasibility study recommended that they consolidate these functions.

However, the plan did not come to fruition until 2021, when the government revisited the idea and proposed a “shared services” model, which was later approved by the cabinet in 2022.

The new initiative, the National

Insurance Shared Services (NISS), will allow both organisations to operate more efficiently and provide better service to the Turks and Caicos Islands populace.

On Wednesday, 10th April 2024, at a press briefing held at the Office of the Premier in Providenciales, NIB Director & CEO, Mrs Rhesa Cartwright-Rolle and Acting CEO of NHIP, Dr Pharez George signed a MoU giving the green light for the sharing of the functions, thereby creating synergies between the two organisations, reducing administrative/operational costs to both organisations and improving customer service delivery / satisfaction.

The document was signed in the presence of Premier and Minister of Finance, Investment Hon Charles Washington Misick; Permanent

Secretary Mrs Cheryl-Ann Jones; Chair of NIB, Mr Trevor Cooke; Minister of Education, Hon Rachel Taylor; Minister of Health, Hon Shaun Malcolm; Deputy Premier, Hon Jamell Robinson, Deputy CEO of NIB, Ms Diandra Malcolm and Legal Counsel for NIB, Mr Leroy Tull.

Highlighting several benefits of the merger, Hon Taylor, Minister of Education with responsibility for the NIB said employers, selfemployed persons, and employees will now be able to register online with the new NISS portal for both organisations at the same time.

She said: “When one registers with one organisation, registration takes place simultaneously with the other organisation, thereby effectively eliminating the need to register separately with the other.

“Employers, self-employed persons and employees will be able to register at any office of NIB or NHIB for both institutions on any island.

“Employers, self-employed persons, and employees will be able to register by completing one single form for both organisations, no longer having to complete two separate registration forms.

“Employers, employees and self-employed persons will receive a single unique registration number and card for both organisations.”

Along with these benefits, Minister Taylor pointed out that the NHIB contribution due date will be harmonised with NIB for payment on the last working day of each month as opposed to the 14th.

“Employers and self-employed persons will be able to pay their contributions at any NIB / NHIB office in Provo, Grand Turk, North/ South Caicos.

“In the future, employers, selfemployed and employees will be able to access their contribution payment records at any time online

to determine their contribution payment history for both organisations”, she added.

The minister further revealed that the merger would see all inspectors legally empowered to perform all the duties of an Inspector for both organisations simultaneously thereby eliminating duplication.

In this vein, both compliance departments will operate as one unit from their current locations and will coordinate compliance activities, which will lead to improved productivity, increased efficiency, reduced duplication /waste, and increased compliance collections.

The Minister further acknowledges Hon Washington Misick’s pivotal role in establishing and improving national insurance schemes in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

She said: “In 1991 under the leadership of the Chief Minister, Honourable Washington Misick and Minister of Finance, introduced national insurance for the financial protection of the population in times of sickness, employment injury, maternity, invalidity, retirement, death of a breadwinner, and old age.

“18 years later in 2009, the Government introduced National Health Insurance to provide affordable, accessible, quality local and overseas health care for its population.

“From as early as 2012, under the leadership of Washington, who was Minister of Finance a feasibility study revealed and recommended that it will be mutually advantageous for both organisations to combine collections and compliance functions of these two vitally essential organisations, it made both practical and business sense to do so at that time and the same holds true today, as it is undeniable

that they are obvious duplication of effort when one considers the man commonalities current operation.

“This significant agreement marked a pivotal point in the Shared Services Project, allowing the implementation of shared services between both entities, thereby creating synergies between the two organisations reducing administrative costs to both organisations and improving customer service delivery and satisfaction.”

Echoing similar sentiments, the Minister of Health with responsibility for the NHIB, Hon Shaun Malcolm stressed that reaching this critical juncture on the journey of integration is a testament to his government’s dedication to the well-being of citizens and the sustainability of national insurance and health systems.

He said: “It is essential to reflect on the journey that has brought us to this pivotal moment, since the inception of the National Insurance in 1991 and National Health Insurance in 2009 our government has remained steadfast in its mission to provide financial protection and accessible quality health care services to a population.

“Over the years both an NIB and an NHIB have played a role in fulfilling the mission yet it has become increasingly evident that there exist opportunities for greater collaboration and alignment between the two entities.” The minister underscored that the benefits of the MOU are manifold and far-reaching as the streamlined processes for registration and compliance with the introduction of the NISS portal will bolster productivity, efficiency and compliance.

He added: “As Minister of

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Premier instructs AG to appeal judgement in gay couple ruling

BY DELANA ISLES

Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon Charles Washington Misick has “instructed the Attorney

General Chambers to appeal” the ruling delivered last month by Supreme Court Justice Anthony Gruchot.

He confirmed to the Weekly

News on Thursday, April 11, that he believes it “has been done”. Gruchot, who assumed his appointment as Judge of the Supreme Court of the TCI

Gov’t apologises for delay in Cabinet Minutes

– assures weekly publications going

The government has broken its months-long silence on the disappearance of the Post Cabinet Statements, stating that staff shortages prevented them from being able to compile and disseminate them.

Last week, former Deputy Premier, Hon Sean Astwood raised some pointed questions as to the lack of the minutes, which outlines the discussions, contracts and other important aspects of government operations.

Astwood claimed that the government appears to be operating in a “veil of secrecy”

stating that the pervasive lack of transparency that shrouds government operations and decision-making processes lately is concerning to many.

He recalled that the public publishing of Cabinet Minutes was brought in during the interim administration as a fundamental part of the Good Governance Principles against the backdrop of the allegations of government corruption made during the Commission of Enquiry.

This week, the government responded, stating, via a “public announcement” that staff shortages caused the delay in

forward

publishing the post-Cabinet statements.

“The Turks and Caicos Government apologises for the delay in the publication of the Post Cabinet Statements, which was due to staff shortages in the Cabinet Office.”

Enclosed in the public announcement were several Cabinet Minutes dating back to early January, up until late March.

They stated that Cabinet Statements going forward will revert to being issued on a weekly basis following the meetings of the Cabinet. (DELANA ISLES)

on September 1, 2022 - an appointment approved by former Governor Nigel Dakin - first heard the case brought by Richard Sankar and his spouse Timothy Haymon in November the same year.

The couple alleged discriminatory practices by the former Director of Immigration, in his denial of Haymon’s right to work as the spouse of a Belonger.

Delivering his judgment, Gruchot said he acknowledged that while gay marriage is not recognised or legal in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Haymon’s right to work in the TCI is protected under the TCI Constitution.

He stated: “The limiting of the grant of a spousal resident permits to only heterosexual couples are in my view discriminatory but not on the basis of marriage.

“It fails to grant equal rights to homosexual couples who are in a permanent and committed relationship.”

The judge said in his view, there is no doubt that the refusal to grant Haymon the equivalent right to a residence permit as that of a heterosexual spouse (whether or not they were married in the TCI) offends the protection afforded by section 16 of the Constitution, given the expressed protection afforded on the basis of sexual orientation.

Adding: “Accordingly, in my judgment, the plaintiffs are entitled

to the declaration they seek, that the refusal to grant a residence permit to Haymon based on the definition of a spouse is in contravention of the protected rights in sections 9 and 16 of the Constitution.”

While Gruchot stood firm in his judgement on the matter, some sections of society were left confused as to his ruling, calling it contradictory, and that it sets a dangerous precedent.

The TCI Christian Council was vociferous in their condemnation of the Gruchot ruling, issuing a statement on the matter, questioning how the judge arrived at his decision.

“We cannot reconcile how it is that the same Constitution that defines marriage can be used to support what seems contradictory,” the Council said, noting that they cannot accept that the rights of the law-abiding majority should and can be set aside.

“We believe that this ruling is troubling and goes not only against the laws as stated on the books and recognised in the Constitution but goes against the rights of the people who ought to have confidence in their laws.”

The Council has condemned the ruling in the strongest terms, stating that “it has trampled on the constitutional rights of the majority, sidelined our law, offended our cultural norms and attacked our Christian heritage”.

Justice Anthony Gruchot delivered the controversial ruling last month after almost two years of deliberations on the sensitive matter

Richard Sankar and his husband Timothy Haymon won the landmark judgement in their bid for equal access to work opportunities in the TCI afforded heterosexual couples. Premier, Hon C.W. Misick

Electoral Boundary Commission

gets to work – public consultations to be held in May

In February, HE Anya Williams, acting as Governor, appointed a Boundaries Commission to review and alter the present boundaries and make changes, if necessary.

Those appointed as members of the Committee are Rev Dr Julia E Williams Retired Civil Servant and Methodist Minister as Chairman, along with Hon. Justice K Neville Adderley M.B. and Tremaine R S Harvey LLB(Hons) Attorney at Law as members.

The Constitution stipulates that a Commission after appointment may regulate its procedure and, with the Governor acting in her discretion, may confer powers and impose duties on any public officer, or any authority of the Government for the purpose of discharge of its functions.

For the purpose of discharge of its functions, the Commission may invite views from members of the public, shall consult the public about the draft of its report; and may seek advice as it considers appropriate.

The Commission and its members, under the Constitution, will not be subject to the direction and control of any person or authority.

The Commission will review the boundaries of the Electoral Districts, and submit to the Governor and House of Assembly, a report on their findings stating that in the opinion of the commission, no changes to these boundaries are required, or recommending the changes in those boundaries specified in the report.

In determining its recommendations, the Commission under subsection (1) (b), and in determining whether or not to recommend any changes in the electoral district boundaries, the Commission shall ensure that the electoral districts contain, so far as is reasonably practicable, approximately equal numbers of persons qualified to be registered as electors.

In order to be successful in its deliberations and produce an efficient report to the Governor, the Commission will visit all islands, have discussions with members of the public and have public meetings.

Deliberations will be carried out from May 13 to 16.

The first meeting will be in Salt Cay, on May 13 at 10 am, followed by another meeting in Grand Turk at 6:30 pm the following day, while another is to be conducted simultaneously on May 14 in South Caicos at the same time.

On May 15, the commission will be in Middle Caicos for a 10 am meeting, then in North Caicos for another at 6:30pm.

The meeting in Providenciales will be held on May 18, at 7pm.

THE NIS INCREASES

The National Insurance Board (NIB) has increased its contribution rates as of April 1, 2024. The new contribution rates are 12% for the private sector, 9.15% for public officers, and 10% for self-employed persons. According to the Board, these increases are the result of an actuarial review conducted in 2019, which is being implemented over three years since 2022. The NIB provided a breakdown of how the contributions will be paid from employers, employees, and self-employed persons. As of April 1, 2024, the new monthly payments for the private sector is 12%, this will see employers paying 6.5% and employees paying 5.5%.

What are your thoughts?

Why increase the rates?

Amidst the “rising tides of corruption” in the TCI, that National Insurance plan was written in stone since 1991. It was the work of former Minister of Social Services, the Hon Wendal Swann, Mr Trevor Cooke under the PDM government of Chief Minister, the Hon Oswald O. Skippings, 1988-91.

During these 33 years the plan stood the time of time and stayed away from the usual bouts of leakage of funds and the usual instances of corruption. As far as people are concerned it was and remains solvent and maybe because of its “honest” legacy, it stays with money. So why increase the rates?

Since any study or actuarial report, which government bodies seem tied to, the population and economy have both grown. There is perhaps no real need to increase rates to ensure future and present solvency prospects. The economy and revenues have been growing exponentially for the last 20 years. Work permit holders abound like never before, so the revenues are there. It was time to review the actuarial review of 2019 and see if its findings are still needed or relevant in 2024. Not implement an old report that may no longer has any

not so sustainable retirement benefit. It must have a greater reason to exist other than employing a “ton of people” and funding burials.

High rates

Why increase these rates. The people most targeted are those who can least afford to pay, the 2000 or so civil servants making less than $1800 monthly will feel the weight and brunt of this. During the last salary increase, the TCI saw the Premier taking a package of $650,000 per annum, His ministers another huge chunk and the people at the top ranks of the civil service were left behind this is grossly unfair.

Now they are coming back to “take it all back”. It is a true and faithful saying that the rich will get richer and the poor will stay poor. Local politics are so dedicated and directed that the message will entice the poor to vote for this time and time again. These rates are so high and need to be reviewed to come down. The wright of payment will come down heavily on the workers and those at the bottom. They will take more and impoverish people more. They need to place a hold on these rates as they cannot work.

Without consultation

bearing on today’s realities. These 12, 9.15 and 10 percent increases are not needed and should be reversed.

Greater purpose of NIS

National insurance or “NIS” seems really much of an “overkill”. It really does not do much except to show that not all agencies in the TCI are run badly and it is safe to say NIS is managed well. What is it there for? Pension, retirement and other benefits are really low and not enough to ‘feed’ an elderly person. NIS is just ‘sitting there’.

Maybe what can be done is move some of the NIS monies into a fund to lend to TCIslanders. Low interest rate facilities for advancement and empowerment. The average TCIslander cannot walk into a bank and get a loan. They have completely “derisked” the islands and loans for businesses, empowerment, trading, etc., it cannot be obtained so easily.

This is where a government fund would fill the gap. The experience from TCI Bank and its collapse is not so encouraging because public funds were used and it came to nought. NIS must have a greater purpose than simply ‘being there” and providing a

It seems that with 14 seats and one appointed MP, this government can do what it likes. Most remarkable is that these increases went through without debate and or much controversy. It is like people do not grasp how this will hurt the people at the bottom of the economic ladder.

Backwards

Are they really relying on an actuarial review from five years ago? If so, these dopes on the board should be removed.

Clueless

Is the Premier and the government ready to put this country to the sword before they lose the elections? Why implement such hardship on the working people of the TCI in such trying times? All of our bills continue to increase, have a heart.

“Our students must return home!”

– government amends scholarship bond agreement to deter defaulters

BY OLIVIA ROSE

To deter scholarship bond defaulters and to ensure a return on its investment in higher education, the Turks and Caicos government has reviewed and amended the bond agreement to give the Scholarships Secretariat more legislative ‘teeth’ when it comes to enforcement.

The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services Department of Scholarships Secretariat has made significant changes to the scholarship application process for the upcoming 2024/2025 academic year.

The process is now paperless, and applicants can submit their applications and track their progress online.

The government has also made changes to the scholarship bond agreement in an effort to ensure that students who receive scholarships return to the Turks and Caicos Islands after completing their studies.

To bridge the country’s gap between the capacity of the local talent pool and labour market demands, the TCIG continues to make a substantial financial investment in human capital development, by providing access to higher education internationally through scholarships.

However, the government is experiencing difficulties with scholarship bond defaulters, a problem it is hoping to resolve with a tighter lid on its compliance and enforcement efforts.

To this end, Minister of Education, Youth, Sport and Social Services Hon Rachel Taylor announced the new measures at a press conference on Friday, April 5, 2024, at the Office of the Premier in Providenciales.

“Over the years, our approach to bridging the labour market and skill gaps has become more strategic and scientific. We are training students each year and doing so in critically needed areas identified not only by the national skills audit but by ministries which indicate areas that are proving difficult to recruit or areas that historically are only filled by contract workers. If we are to close the skills gap, reduce the dependence in critical areas on contract workers and build a pool of available skills, our students must return home.”

“We recognise that one of the main stumbling blocks is the enforcement and management of the scholarship bonds, in particular, ensuring that students who are bonded return home to take up their rightful place in our country as agreed.”

Minister of Education, Hon Rachel Taylor speaking at a recent press conference

With a team of three persons, comprised of the manager and two scholarship officers the Scholarship Secretariat Unit manages on average 200 students per annum.

This heavy workload-tomanpower ratio, coupled with a manual system of management of applications, and a weak bond agreement has created difficulties in continually tracking students after the completion of their programme.

To strengthen compliance from the onset, the ministry has reviewed and amended the Bond Agreement in collaboration with the Attorney General Chambers and the Ministry/Scholarship Unit with agreement by the cabinet.

KEY AMENDMENTS

Some of the changes include requiring students to maintain a consistent level of good performance, requiring students to return to the TCI, and ensuring that students are actively engaged in gaining work experience. The new agreement also clarifies the role of sureties and ensures that they reside in the TCI.

The key amendments that were recommended and agreed are as follows:

1. Revising Bond Clause 3Students maintain a consistent level of good performance as enshrined in the Turks and Caicos Islands, National Education Financial Assistance Policy.

It was noted that the GPA requirement was not consistent, as the bond stipulated 3.0 whereas the policy stipulated 2.5.

There is no consistency and no ambiguity as 2.5 is reflected in both the scholarship policy and in the bond agreement.

2. Requirement for the awardee to return to the TCI: To ensure that students are actively engaged in gaining work experience, students will be strongly urged to register and participate in the National Apprenticeship and Internship Programme. This clause will ensure returning

students are gainfully occupied, as they seek long-term employment. Although not mandatory, the programme has proven to be successful in exposing returning students to the world of work and skills within their areas and in some cases to permanent employment.

Additionally, clause 4 will ensure that sureties’ contact information is clearly stated on the agreement and that they reside in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Students will also be urged to participate in the Internship and Apprenticeship Programme facilitated by the Ministry of Education for a period of up to 90 days, unless:

i. The student can provide proof of secured employment within the Turks & Caicos Islands immediately upon returning home.

ii. The student has obtained permanent employment within the public service during the 90-day period, which is the preferred option.

iii. On a case-by-case basis and upon review and approval by

the Ministry of Education, the student has obtained employment within the private sector during the 90-day period.

However, Minister Taylor pointed out that if students are allowed to work in the private sector within the 90 days, they must remain compliant with their bond.

She said: “The government has to secure a return on this investment, and as a larger employer, wants to ensure that it is the first choice for returning students and that the public service receives these services for its development.

“If upon completion of the 90day period, as listed in paragraph (f), the student does not find employment within the Public Service or Private Sector, he/she may upon a written communication to the Scholarship Manager request to be released from post-academic bond obligations which will be provided once the student has been found to be in compliance with bond obligations thus far.”

The 60-day period to find gainful employment within the public service has been extended to 90 days,

SURETY BONDS

To remedy issues relating to the surety of bonds, the following requirements must be adhered to:

● Must be two by Turks and Caicos Islanders, showing proof of residency by submitting the following documents:-

● Job Letter and bank letter OR

● Bank letter and Affidavit

● Your sureties are now required to provide their physical address within the TCI.

● Your sureties can be your parents /guardians.

● The awardee and two sureties are required to sign the bond agreement prior to the award of the scholarship.

● Each awardee will now have to confirm their enrolment by submitting documentation/ grades at the close of each academic semester;

● Awardees will be required to submit evidence of registration and successful completion annually, that is, maintenance of GPA of at least 2.5, to be eligible for the next drawdown of funds;

● The awardee and sureties will be held jointly liable to pay the TCIG if there is failure to serve back to the government/their country with a period of service ranging from three to five years upon completion of studies and their return to the Islands.

For a scholarship of one to four years, the student will be bonded for three years; for a scholarship of five years and over, the student will be bonded for five years.

The pivotal shift in the scholarship application process will be accompanied by a paperless application process which aims to make the process smoother and hassle-free.

To streamline the application journey for aspiring scholars, the Scholarships Secretariat has identified the Good Grants platform as the most efficient and convenient option for its scholarship application process.

As of March 11th, 2024, the scholarship application season has been officially launched through the utilisation of Good Grants, and an applicant can now visit the website at https://gov.tc/ scholarshipsecretariat and click on the ‘Scholarship Portal’.

NIB and NHIB ink MoU to merge ...

CONTINUED FROM  4

Health, I am confident that the implementation of National Insurance Shared Services will not only optimise the operational efficiency of our national insurance and but also enhance the overall experience by harnessing the power of contribution and innovation, we are taking significant strides towards building a more resilient and sustainable healthcare system for the benefit of all.”

During his brief remarks, Premier Misick lamented the length of time it took for these plans to come to fruition.

“I want to acknowledge what it has taken to get here, and I hope it’s not an indication of how TCI will be doing things in the future, it should have never taken us 12 years to get to this point. “We’ve lost a lot of valuable time and inefficiency has potentially cost us a lot of money, so the whole purpose of the organisation ought to be sure that we develop the smartest and most efficient people that we can, the whole idea is sort of a learning and growing Process of any organisation

speaks to its ability to survive.”

“We do have in the TCI a penchant for resistance but the truth of the matter is technology and innovation is something that we need to make a part of our diet, intellectual diet, if we’re going to move this country fully into the 21st century, now we’re way into the century but in other cases, we are not, by the way, we do things.”

Nevertheless, Misick noted that creating such a synergy between two vital organisations in the Turks and Caicos Islands will augur well for the territory.

TCI Parliament hosts overseas territories speakers’ conference

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Speakers from across the British Overseas Territories convened in the Turks and Caicos Islands for the third biennial Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers Conference.

Speaker of the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly, Hon Gordon Burton welcomed his counterparts from across the

British Overseas Territories to the third Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers Conference 2024, held 2-5 April 2024.

A special sitting of the House of Assembly in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands on Wednesday 3rd April 2024 was held to open the conference.

HE Governor, the Hon Premier and the Leader of the Opposition welcomed the delegates to the

territory.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons Hon Nigel Evans and the Speaker of the Youth Parliament Captain Dixie Smith also addressed the House of Assembly.

The conference brought together representatives from Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, the Falkland Islands, Montserrat, Saint

UK Prosecutor appointed to head embattled Office of the DPP

BY DELANA ISLES

The Governor has appointed King’s Counsel Phillip Bennetts to serve as Director of Public Prosecutions of the TCI.

The announcement was made on Thursday, April 11, with Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam stating that the appointment came on the heels of consultations with the Premier, Leader of the Opposition and the Judicial Services Commission.

She said the recruitment process was competitive, and that Bennetts brings with him a strong track record as a prosecution counsel in serious and complex criminal cases. One of Bennetts’s significant cases concluded in July 2023, with a unanimous guilty verdict for the accused. In that case, the

male defendant was accused of strangling his girlfriend with a bungee cord on a Peru holiday, then burying her body at his grandmother’s home.

At the conclusion of the trial, the defendant was jailed for life in the landmark legal case.

As reported by the Daily Mail, the trial was the first to be held in the United Kingdom under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 which permits courts in England and Wales to try cases whereby offences have been committed overseas but by someone resident in the UK.

Bennetts was the lead prosecuting counsel in the trial.

In welcoming Bennetts to the post – which he will assume in June 2024 – the Governor stated:

“I am confident that he will be able to lead the Office of the Director

of Public Prosecutions and ensure that it plays a pivotal role within the criminal justice system while building and maintaining public confidence in the independence and fairness of his Office.”

The Governor also thanked Dr Angela Brooks for her committed work as the acting DPP in the interim period, that is, since former DPP Eugene Otuonye KC retired last year.

Meanwhile, commenting on his appointment, Bennetts said he is looking forward to taking up the position, calling it a great privilege to be given the opportunity to use the experience he has gained over the years.

“I understand that there will be challenges, as there are in any criminal justice system,” the incoming Director of Public Prosecutions said, adding: “It is

Helena, and Turks and Caicos. The Deputy Speaker of the UK House of Commons also attended.

The high-level forum allowed delegates to engage on key issues related to parliamentary democracy, including security, protocol, and procedures.

The agenda also included sessions on cyber security, AI opportunities and challenges, and communications and the role of

social media.

A communique issued at the conclusion of the conference highlighted the importance of continuing to work together to create a unique and modern partnership to strengthen parliamentary democracy.

The next Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers Conference will be held in London in 2025.

important that those who suffer crime see that justice is done.

Whether victims or witnesses, the criminal justice system must ensure that all have the support that they should have.”

The incoming DPP arrives at

a time when the ODPP – in the words of Dr Brooks at the opening of the law year – is struggling to survive in a climate of fear, case backlogs, limited resources and the emergence of organised crime in the territory.

Overseas Territories Speakers convened in the Turks and Caicos Islands for the conference

HE Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam and Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick and Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood welcomed the delegates

King’s Counsel Phillip Bennetts is new Director of Public Prosecutions (Photo: TCIG)

Provo Water Company set to improve water distribution

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Residents of Providenciales could soon see an end to the frustrating water woes they are currently experiencing, as Provo Water Company (PWC) is taking significant steps to enhance the water distribution network in Providenciales.

This comes as two major projects are underway and a newly repurposed water tank is already making a positive impact on water availability on the island.

Over the last three weeks, residents have been faced with unprecedented water shortages

including reduced water pressure and nighty water outages due to an increase in tourism and local demand.

In an update on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, Provo Water Company said it is working on two projects to enhance water distribution on Providenciales and address the short-term distribution challenges.

“The first project will see the installation of a new city water transmission main line from the TCWC Production Plant along June Plum, Gardenia Way, Kakeka Streets, and Garden Loop to the Leeward Highway, extending from the Long Bay Hills Drive junction

to the roundabout near Crackpot Kitchen.

This pipeline upgrade will provide increased water supply to the network and is expected to be completed by the end of May 2024, enhancing water reliability and ensuring better service for the community.

“The second project, which is set to be completed by the end of September 2024, will focus on upgrading the fittings at major water junctions along the Leeward Highway.

“These improvements to the water supply network’s central artery will increase water flow

to the Suzie Turn Reservoir, and enhance water availability and quality for customers located west of Turtle Cove.”

The Company stressed that these projects will not only tackle the current water distribution issues causing nightly restrictions but are also essential components of PWC’s long-term strategy to support the island’s population growth and flourishing tourism industry.

“In the immediate term, the organisation has resourcefully repurposed a newly built water tank located in the Industrial Park area.

“Originally designated for a future project, the water company has utilized the new tank as an additional source to replenish the Suzie Turn Reservoir, addressing the water supply issues that began in March.

Managing Director Robert Hall in commenting on the new development said: “We are pleased to have found a way to utilise this water tank as a temporary aid in addressing the high-water demand.

“The activation of this tank reaffirms our commitment to fulfilling the water requirements

Top cop to arrive within two weeks, as interim commissioner resigns

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands will welcome a new Commissioner of Police on April 22nd, 2024.

Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam has announced that Mr Edvin Martin will assume the position of Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) later this month.

This announcement comes as Interim Commissioner Christopher Eyre, who was sworn in on February 12, 2024, to hold the fort pending the arrival of the new Commissioner, has resigned.

Mr Martin was initially expected to take up the post in February 2024, however, due to a routine medical procedure and convalescence period his arrival was pushed back to May and Eyre was sworn in to lead the force pending his arrival.

The Weekly News was informed

that Mr Eyre, who has since left the territory announced his resignation via WhatsApp.

The new Commissioner designate brings a wealth of experience to the role, having led the Royal Grenada Police Force and served as President of the Association of Caribbean Police Chiefs. He will be joined by his family when he makes the move to the TCI.

In a statement issued on Monday, April 8, 2024, HE Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam confirmed that the new Commissioner will arrive in the territory sooner than expected.

She said: “Mr Martin is eager to arrive with his family to serve the Turks and Caicos Islands and deliver on his safety and security responsibilities to all residents and visitors across our islands.”

To prepare for his arrival, Commissioner Martin has already been working with Her Excellency,

interim Acting Commissioner Eyre, members of the Force Executive, and regional colleagues as part of his induction, the Governor explained.

The Governor informed that Deputy Commissioner Mr Rodney Adams will lead the RTCIPF until Mr Martin arrival.

Mr Martin was, until June 2023, the Chief of Police of the Royal Grenada Police Force.

He served in that role for five years and in the police force for 37 years.

He is currently serving as the lead of the CARICOM Crime Gun Intelligence Unit as part of the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security. He is also a former President of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police and obtained an MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Durham University in 2016, where he studied under the UK Chevening Scholarship programme.

Provo Water Company’s Managing Director Mr Robert Hall during a site visit (Photos: Provo Water Company)

Mr Robert Hall inspecting ongoing works

Commissioner-designate, Mr Edvin Martin

Minster Connolly reports on quarterly successes in her ministry

The Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture, and Religious Affairs has released its quarterly performance report showcasing a plethora of accomplishments across various sectors.

“From ground-breaking initiatives in agriculture to the preservation of cultural heritage, the Ministry’s efforts underscore its commitment to sustainable development and the enrichment of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” the report from the Minister, Hon Josephine Connolly outlined this week.

AGRICULTURE ADVANCEMENTS

In agriculture, the Ministry spearheaded several notable initiatives aimed at enhancing the sector’s productivity and resilience. Among the highlights is the successful launch of the ‘Business in a Box’ initiative in Grand Turk and other family islands, providing local entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the agricultural market.

Additionally, significant strides have been made in leveraging technology, with the advancement of an online platform following successful testing with staff and importers in Providenciales.

The Ministry also demonstrated its dedication to animal welfare and biosecurity through the finalisation of amendments and enactment for implementing the Dog Control, Animal Control, and Biosecurity Ordinances.

Collaborative efforts with local NGOs, such as the Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPCA), have resulted in tangible outcomes, including the sterilization of 230 animals through Spay and Neuter Clinics in January and February 2024.

Continuing its commitment to sustainable practices, the Ministry is actively engaged in ongoing cooperation with Ministry of Health officials and stakeholders to finalize the draft of the Pesticide Bill, further bolstering environmental protection and agricultural sustainability, the statement reads.

FISHERIES AND MARINE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

The government said efforts to bridge identified gaps in the TCI III Code Action Plan in preparation for the III Code Audit in 2024 underscore the Ministry’s commitment to international standards and best practices in the area of fisheries and marine management. Additionally, the implementation

of the Small Craft Policy and the initiation of a consultancy for sustainable livelihood assessment in collaboration with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) highlight the Ministry’s proactive approach to fostering economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

Significant investments have also been made in infrastructure and legislation, including the approval of a supplemental budget of $200,000 for the construction of 800 additional lobster casitas by commercial fishermen.

Legislative advancements, such as the implementation of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 2022 and supporting regulations, also underscore the ministry’s dedication to enhancing maritime safety and governance

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM REGULATIONS

The ministry said the Department of Tourism Regulations (DTR) continues to prioritize efficiency and excellence in its operations, with ongoing efforts focused on enhancing regulatory frameworks and facilitating industry growth.

“Initiatives such as the continuation of TIDES training and alignment of the DTR ordinance with Business Licensing underscore the Department’s commitment to professionalism and service excellence.

“Furthermore, the Department remains dedicated to leveraging technology for streamlined processes, with the launch of QR codes for the Taxi Rating System and the development of an efficient online application process for accommodation licenses.”

EXPERIENCE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

Meanwhile, Experience Turks and Caicos Islands remains committed to enhancing the tourism experience through strategic initiatives aimed at showcasing the destination’s unique attractions and cultural heritage.

Collaborative efforts with the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) and the National Trust have resulted in the enhancement of key sites such as Bambara, while new experiences such as fish fry events in Provo and Grand Turk promise to enrich visitor experiences and promote local culture.

The ministry said the marketing team’s endeavours to develop a new website for Experience TCI and enhance destination signage underscore their commitment to promoting tourism growth and sustainability.

CULTURAL PRESERVATION AND HERITAGE

“The Ministry’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands is evident through its multifaceted initiatives aimed at showcasing local talent and traditions,” the report outlines.

The launch of a comprehensive cultural and heritage registry serves as a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to amplifying the voices of artisans, musicians, and cultural ambassadors across the archipelago.

Additionally, ongoing workshops and programs aimed at nurturing traditional skills and fostering community engagement underscore the Ministry’s dedication to preserving the cultural legacy of the TCI for future generations.

The ministry said as it continues to forge ahead with its strategic objectives, the quarterly performance report serves as a testament to its unwavering commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Through collaboration, innovation, and dedication, the ministry remains steadfast in its mission to build a brighter and more prosperous future for all residents and visitors alike.”

Shelter management training to get underway soon

BY OLIVIA ROSE

As the TCI braces for an “extremely active” 2024 hurricane season, the Turks and Caicos Islands Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) will be hosting a threeday training in Shelters and Shelter Management.

The training will be held in Providenciales from April 16th to 18th and in Grand Turk from April 23rd to 25th.

This comes as experts at the Colorado State University (CSU) recently predicted a supercharged and ‘extremely active’ 2024 hurricane season with 23 named storms, of which 11 will be hurricanes and five will be major hurricanes that can potentially impact the Caribbean Region.

The goal of the training is to provide emergency shelter managers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to effectively manage shelters during a disaster.

In a statement on Thursday, April 11, 2024, DDME stressed these critical exercises are “guided by the likelihood that a severe hazard impacting the Turks and Caicos Islands could render a significant percentage of the population homeless.”

“ DDME is mandated to establish a mechanism that provides emergency shelter for members of the public.

“ The Government’s emergency shelter programme has over the years been a place of sanctuary to persons briefly displaced resulting from a threatened alert or the impact of a hazard.”

“Given the experiences with

major hurricanes or hazards within our region and the heightened awareness of climate change and risk management, the need to fortify our shelter management capacity ahead of the 2024 Hurricane Season is critical” the Department stressed.

The training will cover topics such as the TCI Disaster Management Framework, the disaster cycle, hazards and vulnerabilities affecting the TCI, shelter administration, shelter operations, recordkeeping, team management, best practices, and practical tools and protocols for emergency shelters.

It is expected that the training will enhance the capacity for shelter management within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Participants will be able to operate an efficient shelter and support emergency response functions when needed.

The training is open to persons from various agencies, both governmental and nongovernmental.

Upon successful completion of the training, participants will be awarded a certificate and will be called upon as Shelter Managers should their assistance be required in an emergency.

To register for the training, please click on the link on the poster or scan the QR code. For more information, contact Mrs. Patrina Harris at 649-346-2244 or Mr. Desmond Lightbourne at 649242-5784.

The 2024 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season will officially begin on Saturday, 01 June 2024, and end on Saturday, 30 November 2024.

Hon Josephine Connolly

Shelter management training infographic-DDME photo

Residents urged to begin preparations as experts predict ‘supercharged’ hurricane season

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands are being urged to be proactive and get started with their individual and family preparations, as an extremely active 2024 hurricane season is being predicted due to hotter oceans and La Niña.

Scientists at the Colorado State University (CSU) have predicted a supercharged and ‘extremely active’ 2024 hurricane season with 23 named storms, of which 11 will be hurricanes and five will be major hurricanes that can potentially impact the Caribbean

Region.

The 2024 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season will officially begin on Saturday, 01 June 2024, and end on Saturday, 30 November 2024.

As the season quickly approaches, CSU on April 4th, released its first hurricane predictions for 2024.

These predictions are out of the norm, according to the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) which explained that the Colorado State has never predicted more than 19 named storms or nine hurricanes in

its initial forecast.

In light of this, Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, with Responsibility for Disaster Management, Hon Jamell Robinson stressed that these predictions should not be taken lightly.

“Residents are urged to take proactive measures ahead of the 2024 Atlantic Season, as it only takes one storm to impact the TCI”, Robinson said this week.

As the Minister responsible for disaster management, Robinson implored individuals to take all precautionary actions to support

Provo Water Company set to ...

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of our community in response to the growing demands of our customers and stakeholders.”

The new tank, located in the heart of the Industrial Park area, boasts a capacity of 1.5 million gallons.

The company explained that this tank will work hand in hand with the Suzie Turn Reservoir to meet the water supply needs in the northern and southwestern areas of Providenciales, bridging the gap until ongoing projects deliver a lasting solution.

Once the two current projects have been completed, the new water tank will serve a critical role in a future project and in safeguarding Providenciales

with an emergency water supply during crises like hurricanes and other natural disasters.

“This water system investment speaks volumes about our proactive approach to directly addressing water challenges. Through expanding storage capacity and optimizing distribution efficiency, we are well-positioned to deliver reliable, high-quality water services to our customers,” Hall added.

He also added that, amid these efforts, advocating for water conservation practices is crucial.

Small actions, such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient

fixtures, and practicing mindful water consumption, can play a significant role in safeguarding our valuable water resources.

In addition to these initiatives, the organisation will continue to optimize and promote its robust educational campaigns and community engagement programs aimed at raising awareness about water conservation and the importance of sustainable water practices.

“As we move forward, we remain committed to serving our community and look forward to the positive impact that these new initiatives will bring to this island.” Hall concluded.

collective efforts of preparation for a major storm to reduce any potential impact.

He stressed that it is imperative for residents to seriously begin their preparations, by inspecting their homes and making any necessary repairs, updating their family plan and insurance policies, ensuring that their insurance policies cover flooding, etc.

The increase in activity is being driven by a number of factors, including warmer ocean temperatures and La Niña.

Sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean are currently 1.2 degrees Celsius above normal and are expected to remain above normal throughout the hurricane season.

The DDME explained that back in February, sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic had already reached historically high levels of about 1.2°C (2.2°F) above normal, from off the coast of Africa to off the coast of Central America; this region is considered the main development region for the Atlantic Basin tropical cyclones.

“The sea surface temperatures experienced in the month of February were more typical of that of warmer months such as June and July, warm oceans provide fuel to help tropical cyclones form and boost their strength after formation”, the DDME stressed.

“However, the sea surface becomes warmer and warmer as the season progresses. Therefore, with such record-high sea surface temperatures already in place from West Africa to Central America, there is a likelihood that more tropical cyclones will develop

and their strength boosted by this added fuel.

“The forecasters/experts have also advised that the El NiñoSouthern Oscillation (ENSO) is transitioning from the El Niño phase experienced in 2023 to a brief neutral phase, then to a La Niña Phase.

“The La Niña Phase Forecast is anticipated to be fully in place by September 2024. Rain and increased moisture from the La Niña conditions could supercharge the season.

“It is the El Niño phase of ENSO that suppresses hurricane formation in the Atlantic Basin — since the El Niño generates more wind shear (winds changing winds with direction and height), which in turn suppresses the activity of hurricanes”, the DDME said in a statement earlier this week.

With La Niña the effects are the opposite — reduced wind shear, thus assisting hurricane formation and activity. Because of this, the experts are anticipating an above-normal supercharged 2024 Hurricane Season in the Atlantic Basin.

It is important to have a hurricane preparedness plan in place and to make sure that all family members know what to do in the event of a hurricane.

A hurricane preparedness plan should include a safe location to shelter in place, a supply kit with food, water, and other essentials, a plan for communication in case of an emergency, and a plan for pets. It is also important to stay up-todate on the latest hurricane forecasts and warnings disseminated by the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies.

Colorado State University Atlantic Hurricane Season prediction

Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, with Responsibility for Disaster Management, Hon Jamell Robinson

Practice good manners

It pays forward to a good and harmonious environment

A tourist recently posted a review of her stay on one of the Facebook posts and she talked about the rudeness of some of the staff in the hospitality industry. She also compared the demeanour of the people to that of other islands. While some of us may not like the review because it was negative, the truth is we need to do better when it comes to our manners. I have already written a few articles about this topic, but that post has triggered me to write about it again.

I know there are some people that practice good manners and I want to encourage you to continue even if there is no response from the other individual.

Some of the good manners we can practice is to simply say good morning, good afternoon,

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.

or good night. Each time, you pass someone, you should do that. Not only when you pass someone but do it also when you are communicating with others through social media and other platforms. This was a wakeup call for me. I recalled when communicating with one of my tenants through Facebook and he asked me why I don’t say

good morning or good evening. I realised that I was not practicing good manners through social media. However, from that day onwards, I started practicing good manners on social media.

Another good manner to practice is to say thank you. Some people do not see the need to say thank you if you are paying for a service or product. They feel they

paid for it, so why say thank you.

Practice saying please. You can lead by example by saying please.

Listen carefully to others. As a host of two shows, I find it is critical to listen to others. This is a manner that we all should practice.

Another good manner to practice is not to interrupt others while they are doing something. If you must interrupt, please say excuse me.

Practice good manners with everyone, not just the tourist, the rich person, or people of “status”. One of the benefits of practicing good manners is that it fosters a good and harmonious environment. It creates an opportunity for great interaction and fosters unity. It also shows respect for others. It is a great impression and is an

incentive to encourage others to patronise your business. If you do not practice good manners, it can be detrimental to you personally, professionally, and to your business. People observe how you behave and if you do not practice good manners, they will not want to deal with you or even hire you.

Some companies recruit people to train their staff to practice good manners. Sometimes the training works and sometimes it does not work. I think practicing good manners should be part of our everyday life. That is why parents must ensure their children practice good manners. This should also be taught in the schools.

Do not let social media, your financial condition, or the many choices you have cause you not to practice good manners.

What is behind the recent low water pressure in Provo

Are we headed for water scarcity?

Nothing beats the soothing feeling from a shower after a stressful workday. And nothing is more refreshing than a bottle of water after a rigorous workout at the gym. But can you imagine, having to deal with low-pressure water just trickling out of your shower?

For me, this is a deeply harrowing ordeal and if the political inertia persists, we won’t have a choice than to tolerate more dire water interruptions and scarcity soon.

We are aware that water, food, and energy form a nexus at the core of sustainable development; however, the irregular low water pressure we’re experiencing in Providenciales harkens back to inadequate water resources and investments.

Agriculture is the leading

BY D MARKIE SPRING

D Markie Spring, a TCI resident of 15 years, is an expert in law enforcement. He worked as a detective in the Royal TCI Police Force and was director of security at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

consumer of the world’s freshwater supplies and water is the main source for generating most forms of energy worldwide and; henceforth, the demand for all three resources is increasing rapidly.

However, since the focus is the TCI and considering that agriculture and water-generated energy are not widespread here, we’ll focus our attention on the water supply and possible reasons

for the low water pressure residents are currently enduring.

It is common knowledge that low water pressure is caused by a myriad of technical issues; however, it is believed too that minor water disruptions emanate from external social, economic, and environmental forces.

First, there is the tourism factor! There is no doubt that the influx of tourists in the TCI has substantially increased the local and seasonal pressure on TCI’s water supply systems.

Ideally, the government should recognize the need to posit the water challenges at the core of the community and the economic

decision-making process and develop robust mechanisms to safeguard water sources for sustainable development.

Similarly, it is possible that TCI rapid population growth is triggering water stress, as this increase leads to greater demand for the resource.

Low water pressure is also influenced by land use. An expanding population – in the TCI context – means more economic activities, especially in the construction industry; hence, the growing desire for landscaping across the islands.

This has amplified the need for more irrigation systems and in so doing, augment the demand for water. Seemingly, this too could be contributing to the water stress problem we’re now facing.

And certainly, environmental factors are at play. Climatic conditions, which propel disruptions in rain patterns, lead to prolonged droughts.

Less rainwater engenders the need for irrigation systems;

henceforth, this is deemed a worthy constituent of supply and its availability.

However, to alleviate the looming water interruptions, the government must pursue sustainable management of water to preserve biodiversity in the TCI.

Moreover, lawmakers must fund a resilient plan, designed to acclimatize to the effects of changing weather patterns and one which underpins technology and innovation.

It is evident that a lack of government investment and intervention in water engineering are exposing the country to low water pressure and over time scarcity.

Still, citizens must practice good water-saving habits and get involved in caring for this highly valuable resource.

In addition to good engineering practices like keeping plumbing in good order, consumers could turn off all taps when not in use.

One thing is for sure if the government’s plan today; it can deliver water tomorrow!

The call to civil disobedience: a biblical perspective

Since Adam and Eve chose their own wisdom above God’s, humanity has been defined by conflict. Resource conflict. Racial conflict. National conflict. Gender conflict. In our time, there is an increasing clash between morality, specifically Biblical ethics, and the law of the land. As such, Christians find themselves at a crossroads. How does a Christian navigate a world that sometimes demands obedience to laws that clash with their biblically informed, deeply held convictions? The concept of civil disobedience, rooted in conscientious objection to unjust laws, is not a novel idea for Christians. It has been a tool for advocacy, justice, and social change throughout history. However, the question remains: when is it appropriate, and how should it be done?

OCTOPEN

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going further in their faith. Besides loving, serving, and helping people he has watched the extended Director’s cut of the Lord of the Rings trilogy multiple times.

First and foremost, the Bible offers guidance on the matter. In the book of Acts, the apostles boldly declared, “We must obey God rather than any human authority” (Acts 5:29, New Living Translation). This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian civil disobedience— prioritizing obedience to God’s law over human decrees when they conflict. It echoes the sentiment in Daniel 3, where Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse

to bow down to the golden statue, even under the threat of death, because of their allegiance to God.

Civil disobedience is not a call to lawlessness or rebellion but a demonstration of allegiance to a higher authority. It is rooted in the principle of love, as articulated by Jesus when He said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39, NLT). When laws perpetuate injustice or harm, love compels Christians to stand for what is right, even if it means

challenging the status quo. However, the manner in which civil disobedience is carried out is crucial. The apostle Paul admonished believers to “do everything you can to live in peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18, NLT). This underscores the importance of peaceful resistance and nonviolent protest as the Christian approach to civil disobedience. Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, exemplified

this principle, drawing inspiration from Jesus’ teachings on turning the other cheek and loving one’s enemies (Matthew 5:38-48, NLT). Furthermore, Christians engaged in civil disobedience must be willing to accept the consequences of their actions with humility and grace. Peter reminds believers, “If you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats” (1 Peter 3:14, NLT). Like the apostles who rejoiced in their suffering for the sake of Christ (Acts 5:41), Christians must endure persecution with steadfast faith, trusting in God’s ultimate justice. Nevertheless, discernment is paramount in determining when civil disobedience is appropriate. The apostle Paul urged believers to

Change your keys immediately!

There is a phenomenon that you ought to get yourself familiar with_ A new sort of lover, the hobos or better known as the “hobosexuals”. If you haven’t heard of them, I got you.

A hobosexual is a person who dates you with the sole interest of having a place to stay – not a genuine romantic interest.” They’re serial daters, often bouncing from one live-in relationship to the next, usually with a rolling hockey bag full of dirty laundry, a trunk filled with clothes hangers and pillows, a repertoire of already-rehearsed excuses as to why they do not have a fixed abode at 32 and of course, killer moves in the bedroom, to make up for their shortcomings.

The hobosexual takes mooching to a pathological level, taking advantage of your generosity under the guise of having feelings for you. The result is a relationship that’s toxic, draining emotionally and financially – and potentially dangerous for whoever chooses to host one of these down-andout lotharios.

BY DAVIDSON LOUIS

Rachel Wolchin once said: “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have had roots instead of feet.” On this quest to self-discovery, TC Islander Davidson Louis vowed to travel, write, paint, laugh and forgive. Subsequently, he hopes to find himself and or, leave behind a few pieces of himself. Contact him at hello. octopen@tcinews.tc

Drawing from the stories of resilient and brave sisters on the World Wide Web, I have compiled some tell-tale signs that you need to know.

THE RELATIONSHIP MOVES AT LIGHTNING SPEED:

Anyone serious about being with you won’t feel the need to rush. They’ll also take the time to get their life together and heal from their previous relationship, before pursuing one with someone else. This is the contrary for the homosexual.

YOU DRIFT INTO COHABITATION:

Moving in together is a big step that requires a serious

conversation. If your new partner drifts into living space or is staying with you because they literally have nowhere else to go, that’s a red flag.

THEY LIVE IN THE “INBETWEEN”:

In between jobs. In between apartments. In between partners. Their employment situation is sketchy, their last known address involved sleeping on a friend’s couch and they have a habit of never being single. Be concerned. Very concerned.

YOU’VE CHANGED YOUR LIFESTYLE TO ACCOMMODATE THEM: You’ve had to purchase a COSTCO

membership to offset their voracious appetite for organic kale chips and you’re looking into installing a new bathtub so it will be easier for them to wash their dog.

YOU JUST HEARD THEM ON THE PHONE CANCELLING THEIR STORAGE LOCKER:

They’ve got a camper van, a couple of dirt bikes, and a stash of brand-new stereos of questionable origins. You have an empty garage. What could go wrong?

YOUR FRIENDS KNOW EXACTLY WHAT’S GOING ON:

Our friends and family are often able to see what we cannot. When you’re dealing with a hobosexual, “free-spirited nomad” is code for “homeless.” If your friends tell you they think something is off about your relationship, it might do you good to listen.

THEY WERE ALWAYS THE VICTIM AT THEIR LAST HOUSE SHARE:

You will hear stories upon stories about how they were a victim and how such crises have terribly prevented them from finding a new home. Lies.

FINANCIALLY INEPT

Every bill is overdue: car notes, cell phones, student loans, they owe Jack, Bill, and the local boulangerie. They do not have a job but they have been looking for one since 1999.

Free yourselves. Drop them at their best friends and never return or pay for their one-way tickets to their mothers. It costs to be free but not that much. You have places to be.

Care to share?

Do tell me your story. @daviid.l2

DAVIDSON E. LOUIS

Business and Tourism Management Salford University Manchester England

Tel: +44.794.981.4200

TCI celebrates Child Abuse Prevention Month

– under theme ‘building a hopeful future, together’

The Department of Social Development joins the rest of the world in recognising the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

During this time, a commitment is made to re-examine strategies to support children and families’ well-being in raising awareness for preventing child abuse and neglect.

“This year, as we seek to raise awareness and consciousness in protecting and securing the welfare of all children in the TCI and around the world, we join in promoting the theme, ‘Building A Hopeful Future, Together’,” the department said in a statement.

They said this means reaffirming their commitment to collaborating with partners, stakeholders, and community members to make sure all children and families have the tools and assistance they need to reach their full potential.

It also means acknowledging the vital connection that exists between every child’s safety and reaching a happy and bright future.

Honourable Minister with responsibility for the department, Otis Morris said the theme for this year’s observances emphasises the crucial need for TCI communities, stakeholders, partners, and wellwishers to collaborate in support of its children and families to promote nurturing, stable environments that will ignite the catalyst in preventing child abuse and neglect and build bridges to a prosperous, sustainable future.

He said the month of April is dedicated to raising awareness about child abuse prevention and providing a platform for people to unite in support of the goal that all children have safe and healthy homes to thrive.

“As the Minister, I am leading the charge in taking a stand against child abuse and neglect and also providing the resources, manpower and sustenance to continue community awareness against child abuse and neglect.

“I applaud the Department of Social Development and Welfare for the progress they have made in child abuse prevention and for the undying passion they have displayed in the fight against child abuse and neglect.

“As a community, we all have a part to play in preventing child abuse and neglect.”

Commemorative stamps celebrate St Thomas Anglican Church bicentennial

The Postal Services this week issued commemorative stamps in two denominations of ten-dollar souvenir sheets and fifty-cent sheetlets depicting the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk.

The stamps were produced and issued for the commemoration of the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk bicentenary celebration which took place on December 21, 2023.

The stamps went on sale to the public last Monday, April 8, at the George Brown Post Office Building on Airport Road, Providenciales and at the Grand Turk Post Office

The call to civil disobedience: a biblical ...

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“be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16, NLT). This wisdom entails careful evaluation of the circumstances, seeking counsel from fellow believers, and prayerfully considering the potential impact of one’s actions on others and the broader society.

Moreover, Christians must be mindful of their witness and reputation. Paul exhorted believers to “live honorably among the unbelievers” (1 Thessalonians 4:12, NLT), recognizing that their conduct reflects the character of Christ. Civil disobedience should never be pursued for personal gain or attention but as a means to advocate for justice, promote righteousness, and demonstrate God’s love to the world.

From a Christian perspective, civil disobedience is a solemn duty grounded in the principles of love, justice, and obedience to God. When confronted with laws or policies that violate these principles, Christians are called to follow the examples outlined in Scripture—resisting peacefully, enduring persecution with grace, and seeking wisdom in discerning the appropriate course of action. As the apostle Paul declared, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9, NLT). Let us, guided by these principles, continue to be a beacon of light and agents of change in a world marred by injustice and oppression.

at the Peter Williams Building on Church Folly.

The Postal Services said it is pleased that it was able to accommodate the request of Cannon Mark Kendall by securing the production and issuance of the stamps.

They also said they were pleased to be associated with the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk in its achievement of such a momentous milestone.

Issue of commemorative stamp in two denominations to celebrate the bicentenary of the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk

Brazen robbery in Five Cays, police seeks public’s help in identifying suspects

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying three armed masked men who robbed a business in Five Cays on Providenciales on Tuesday, April 7th at approximately 3 pm.

In recent weeks, there has been a concerning uptick in armed robberies and burglaries being carried out on businesses, homes, villas, and individuals by masked assailants in Providenciales.

In the latest incident, several patrons at a business establishment in Five Cays were robbed of their valuables.

According to the RTCIPF, officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving a report of the robbery.

However, the armed men had fled the scene by that time.

Although no injuries were reported in the incident, the RTCIPF said the robbery has had

a profound impact on the safety and security of the Five Cays community.

The police is urging anyone with information about the robbery or the suspects to come forward.

“No detail is too small, and it could be instrumental in apprehending the suspects and preventing future incidents.

“We ask the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 2311842, Crime Stoppers at 1-8008477, and anonymously give any information on this robbery or illegal activity,” the police stated.

“Additionally, persons are encouraged to download the CrimeStoppers P3 app and share information.”

The police force assured the public that they are diligently investigating the incident and are committed to apprehending the perpetrators swiftly. (Olivia Rose)

Rebuttal: The dilemma our water sports operators face

Dear Editor, Dwayne Taylor’s recent letter presents views that need clarification. Let’s set the record straight about Premier Charles Washington Misick’s administration. Far from neglecting the community, the Premier and his team are dedicated to the prosperity and well-being of all Turks and Caicos Islanders. Their focus? Sustainable development and progress for everyone.

ON THE ALLEGED VICTIMIZATION OF BEACH VENDORS AND WATER SPORTS OPERATORS:

Taylor needs to understand the broader perspective. The government regulates water sports activities not to penalise anyone but to protect our natural resources. Their goal is to ensure growth that is both equitable and sustainable. These steps are taken with the future of TCI and its inhabitants at heart, contrary to the personal gain-oriented critique by Taylor, who overlooks the necessity of sustainable practices for long-term prosperity.

REGARDING FEES AND RESTRICTIONS:

The decision to implement fees for using dock spaces and to regulate certain areas for water sports is part of a broader strategy to manage resources responsibly and ensure safety. It’s misleading to suggest that these measures are solely burdensome; they are investments in maintaining the quality and safety of our tourist attractions, which benefits local operators by enhancing the appeal of their services. The government is in continuous dialogue with stakeholders to ensure that fees are fair and regulations serve the collective good.

THE ACCUSATION OF GOVERNMENT APATHY:

It’s disheartening to see Taylor accusing the government of apathy. Premier Misick’s administration has shown an unwavering dedication to the TCI, demonstrated through initiatives to improve education and economic opportunities. The claim that the government does not care contradicts the evidence of these comprehensive efforts to elevate the standard of living and empower the local community.

THE CLAIM OF PERSONAL GAIN:

Taylor’s assertion that his advocacy is purely unselfish differs from his actions. By focusing on divisive and sensational issues, Taylor prioritises personal visibility over constructive dialogue. The real work of governance requires collaboration, understanding, and sometimes difficult decisions that may not be immediately popular but are in the best interest of TCI’s future.

LOOKING FORWARD:

The Misick administration is committed to fostering an environment where all entrepreneurs, including water sports operators, can thrive. Taylor should stop wasting time on “weakly rants” (pun intended). Instead, Taylor should explore strategies to reduce operational costs and enhance marketing opportunities. Additionally, he should seek ways to improve access to capital. After all, if Taylor truly cares about vendors and operators, let this be his focus. Meanwhile, the government envisions a TCI that embodies prosperity, safety, and a high quality of life for every citizen. This vision will be realised through responsible stewardship and the adoption of inclusive economic policies.

In conclusion, Premier Misick and his government are not the adversaries of the local business community, as portrayed by Taylor. Instead, they stand as allies, committed to forging a balanced and prosperous future for TCI. The time has come to leave behind divisive talks. Let’s embrace constructive, unified efforts for the well-being of our beloved country.

Sincerely,

Audley Astwood

AUDLEY ASTWOOD

THE HEART OF THE MATTER

Must go; don’t know where…

What a difference a week makes! I’ve just come back from a therapeutic eighteen-hour Blitz-Trip to Salt Cay, a trip that also reignited my affection for this 2.5-square-mile jewel among the populated islands of our blessed archipelago. The visit underscored why Salt Cay remains my top pick, blending its unique charm with a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.

I’m getting a bit ahead of myself here, diving into the story like an overenthusiastic swimmer into the sea without checking the water first. Let’s wind the clock back to the previous week. Easter Monday, to be exact, at the ungodly hour of 2:45 am. I’m jolted awake by a sharp pain in my chest, gasping for air. Is this the “big one”? Here I am in my late 50s, generally in what you might call “not-too-shabby” condition, wondering if my long-standing, somewhat cavalier relationship with my cholesterol levels was waving a red flag. Was it payback time? I’ve always prided myself on not being overweight, walking four kilometers a day (come rain or shine), and attempting to eat healthily. I don’t drink or smoke and have been known to loudly proclaim the cholesterol debate as nothing more than a grandiose scare tactic - a ploy by pharmaceutical companies to push their statins and turn a tidy profit. Let me quickly add, in a whisper, that this is purely my armchair expert opinion. If your cholesterol levels are high, talking to a professional who’s actually gone to medical school, rather than forming opinions based on late-night internet research, is the way to go. Educate yourself, and if cholesterol-lowering medication is your chosen sword to battle the cholesterol dragon, then

BY TITUS DE BOER

Titus de Boer was born in Hamburg and spent his formative years in the West Indies. He moved to the TCI in 1989 and founded the country’s first professional art gallery in 1990. These days he manages an art gallery, TDB Fine Arts, located in the Turks and Caicos National Museum on Grand Turk. (www.facebook.com/tdbfinearts). Readers wishing to contact Titus, can to so on tdbtci@aol.com.

Every visit to Salt Cay underscores why it remains my top pick, blending its unique

charge ahead valiantly.

From the very early hours into mid-morning, the pain persists, yet I’m relieved to still be alive. As the day progresses into late morning, I find myself wrestling with the decision of whether to seek help at the Grand Turk hospital. By midday, despite the lingering pain and my difficulty breathing, I make a halfhearted attempt to go. However, the sight of several people already waiting in the emergency room discourages me, and I return home

without seeing a doctor. The pain, stubborn and unrelenting, pushes me to call a friend for advice, recalling her husband’s mild heart attack last year. “Titus, you’re being incredibly stubborn and stupid, go to the hospital now!” she scolds. Her words strike a chord. Living on Salt Cay means accepting the reality that immediate medical help is not always within reach, with no hospital on the island and limited medical services until a flight can transport a patient to a more equipped facility.

Acknowledging this, I remind myself that today is different - I’m not on Salt Cay, but within sight of the Grand Turk hospital. Motivated by my friend’s blunt advice, I finally decide to return to the hospital.

After undergoing an EKG, the nurse, while drawing blood, informs me they’re treating my case as an ‘Acute Cardiac Syndrome’ due to my symptoms and age. They plan to test my blood now and in four hours, with another EKG to follow. Impressed once again by

the professionalism and friendliness at the Grand Turk Hospital, I wait. Several hours later, I receive the allclear: my heart and blood pressure are in great condition, and all tests, including the EKG, are positive.

It turns out I’ve been revisited by Costochondritis – a fancy term for making you think you’re auditioning for the lead role in “The Big One”. This condition loves to hug the upper ribs on the left side, particularly where the rib cartilage flirts with the sternum, and masquerades as a heart condition with a talent that could earn it an Oscar. The cause remains as elusive as my understanding of quantum physics, and the treatment strategy is basically to grimace and bear it until it decides to pack its bags - taking a leisurely week or more. After a week feeling like I’d gone a few rounds with a heavyweight, the pain finally started to show mercy. As this condition finally started to wrap up, I found solace in a quote by the travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor, “Live, don’t know how long, and die, don’t know when; Must go, don’t know where; I am astonished I am so cheerful.”

Though I’m as uncertain about my future years as anyone, I was certain about my next destination: Salt Cay, for a swift eighteen-hour escape. Boarding the “Esmeralda” to the charmed isle, the recent pain just vanished with the breeze. Salt Cay possesses a therapeutic magic, perfectly captured by Patrick Leigh Fermor: “the feeling of being lost in time and geography.” Indeed, to lose oneself in Salt Cay’s timeless embrace is often all one needs to heal. And with that, I return to the nation’s capital, with renewed vigour, the next morning.

Capt Tim Dunn’s “Esmeralda” awaits the arrival of guests for a most memorable trip to Salt Cay. (Photo: Titus de Boer)

Salt Cay. “The feeling of being lost in time and geography”. (Photo: Titus de Boer)

charm with a sense of tranquility. (Photo: Titus de Boer)

Julianna Musgrove appointed as deputy permanent secretary

The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands proudly announces the appointment of Ms Julianna Musgrove to the post of Deputy Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Deputy Governor.

Ms Musgrove’s academic journey is marked by excellence and dedication. She earned her Bachelor’s degree with honours in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, demonstrating a commitment to academic achievement and professional growth. Currently, she is on the cusp of completing her Master’s degree in Human Resource Management and Development from the University of Salford in the United Kingdom, further enhancing her knowledge and expertise in her chosen field. With over a decade of leadership experience in learning and development, human resources, and hospitality, Ms Musgrove brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to her new role. Prior to her transition to the civil service, she served as the Regional Learning

and Development Manager at Sandals Resorts International, where she oversaw learning and development operations across multiple Caribbean nations. Her adept leadership skills have been evident in successfully spearheading change initiatives and development programs at an executive level.

Ms Musgrove’s contributions extend beyond her professional pursuits. She has served as a Governor on the Board of Governors for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, where she chaired the Human Resource, Safety, and Compensation sub-committee, demonstrating her commitment to education and community service. Additionally, Ms Musgrove is an Executive Member of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College Alumni Association, actively contributing to the growth and development of her alma mater.

Her exceptional achievements have garnered widespread recognition, earning her prestigious accolades such as the

2023 Caribbean Rising Star Award from the International Society of Hospitality Consultants and the Sandals Foundation Sentinel of the Year Award.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Musgrove expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve in her new capacity:

“It is with a profound sense of gratitude and humility that I assume the role of Deputy Permanent Secretary. I am eager to embark on this journey to serve my country with dedication and commitment. My faith in God sustains me, and I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support of my family, mentors, and friends.

This appointment is not just a milestone in my career; it is also a profound responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly. With great optimism and enthusiasm, I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Commenting on her appointment, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams remarked, “It is with great pleasure

that I extend congratulations to Ms Julianna Musgrove on her appointment as Deputy Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Deputy Governor, and I extend a warm welcome to her as she joins the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service.

As my office continues to forge ahead with various initiatives aimed at enhancing service quality and bolstering our capacity building endeavours, Ms Musgrove’s role will be instrumental. Working alongside the Permanent Secretary, she will play a pivotal role in the re-establishment of the Training Directorate, spearheading the development of a comprehensive training programme tailored to address skill

gaps

and

developmental needs across the

Public Service. Additionally, Ms Musgrove will oversee the Employee Compliance and Appraisal functions, ensuring that performance is meticulously monitored, corrective measures are swiftly implemented, and commendable efforts are duly rewarded.

The appointment of Ms Musgrove comes at a critical juncture, and her expertise and dedication will undoubtedly fortify our efforts to enhance the services we provide to the public. My office is committed to providing Ms Musgrove with the support as she embarks on this new chapter, and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact she will undoubtedly make as a valued member of our public service family.

Nurturing young talent: Experience TCI welcomes new additions to the team

Experience Turks and Caicos is fostering an environment where young talent can thrive and excel, and the recent additions to the organisation serve as a testament to that commitment.

Experience Turks and Caicos welcomes Ms Rothesia Williams and Ms Kristan Lightbourne to the Finance Department as well as Ms Oshin Whyte, who has been assigned a temporary role as Tourism Statistics Officer.

Ms Williams joined the team as an Accounts Clerk effective April 2nd, 2024 while Ms Lightbourne will take up the position of Finance Accountant effective April 15th, 2024.

In her role, Ms Williams will support the Finance Accountant in updating financial records, generating financial reports, reconciling bank statements and processing financial transactions.

Ms Williams is a graduate of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and previously worked at the Waterloo Hotel Management Ltd, where she held the roles of Accounting Clerk and Senior Accounts Payable Clerk.

As Financial Accountant, Ms Lightbourne will prepare statements and reports and advise

on financial strategy.

Ms Lightbourne previously worked as an accountant at The Shore Club where she oversaw and provided strategic guidance to various sectors within the finance department, including Cost Control, Audit, Accounts Payable, Cash Management, and Payroll and implemented and reviewed internal financial policies and controls to ensure compliance and efficiency among other duties. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Management from the Turks and Caicos Community College and is currently pursuing her Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) certification in the United

Kingdom.

Ms Whyte will be working temporarily with the team as Tourism Statistics Specialist effective April 3rd, 2024.

She will be responsible for collecting and analysing data relevant to the tourism industry that would enable Experience Turks and Caicos to develop informed strategies to enhance the tourism sector.

Ms Whyte previously held the position of Interim Environmental Policy Coordinator with the Ministry of Tourism where she collaborated with the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources to ensure the timely delivery of the

key objectives of the Sustainable Livelihood Program. She is a graduate of Oxford Brookes University with a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Sciences and the University of Kent with a Masters by Research (Hons) in Human Geography

In welcoming the young women to Experience Turks and Caicos, Co-Chair of Experience Turks and Caicos Mr Alvin Hegner said the future of the tourism industry centres around the youth.

“As we forge ahead in fortifying and expanding our organisation, the stewardship of adept individuals becomes paramount. Given the Turks and Caicos Islands’ singular

reliance on tourism, we must foster sustainability by nurturing our youth, empowering them to evolve into the torchbearers of tomorrow who will carry forward the legacy of our current endeavours. I am genuinely enthused to extend a warm welcome to these young women as they join our ranks, eagerly anticipating the remarkable contributions they will undoubtedly make,” he said.

Ms Williams and Ms Lightbourne will report to the Chief Financial and Operations Officer, Ms Rufina Augustin while Ms Whyte will report to the Chief Marketing Officer, Ms Trina Adams.

Julianna Musgrove

Ms Kristan Lightbourne

Ms Rothesia Williams

Ms Oshin Whyte

Haiti finalises deal to form transitional council in bid to end gang chaos

Members of the transition council sent their plan to the regional Caribbean body CARICOM late Sunday.

The accord establishes a ninemember council -- seven voting members and two observers -representing political parties, the private sector and civil society, that will pave the way for presidential elections by early 2026.

It’s mandate “will end on February 7, 2026,” according to the agreement seen Monday by AFP.

The impoverished country’s new authorities will replace outgoing prime minister Ariel Henry, who announced his resignation on March 11 after Haiti plunged into deadly gang violence.

A political official said the accord was presented late Sunday to CARICOM, which has been instrumental in negotiations over the island nation’s latest crisis.

A final step awaits: the formal

approval and acceptance of the deal by Haiti’s outgoing government.

The council’s first task will be to elect a prime minister who, in collaboration with the nine-member team, will form a government charged with leading the country until “democratic, free and credible elections” can be held, the agreement states.

No members of the council or the soon-to-be-formed government will be allowed to run in the elections.

Haiti has suffered years of political instability and crime, and no elections have been held since 2016.

The situation has worsened since late February when armed gangs attacked police stations, prisons and government headquarters, and forced the shutdown of the port and airport in a spasm of anti-Henry violence.

With the airport in Port-auPrince closed, the prime minister

has not been able to return to the country since he traveled to Kenya seeking to secure Nairobi’s lead in an international security mission to Haiti sponsored by the United Nations.

The weekend breakthrough follows negotiations to succeed Henry that have been delayed by internal disagreements and legal wrangling.

CARICOM will now have to transmit the accord -- and a decree confirming its entry into force -- to the outgoing Henry government to confirm the investiture of the new council.

The transitional body establishes three priorities: “security, constitutional and institutional reforms, and elections.”

Bahamas murder toll climbs to 38

Gun violence has claimed another life in The Bahamas.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPS) said it received a shot spotter alert around 11pm on Wednesday about a gun being fired on Cowpen Road in Nassau.

When officers arrived, they found the body of a man, who is yet to be identified, lying near a fruit stand opposite Montgomery Avenue with an apparent gunshot wound to the head.

Speaking with reporters at the scene of the crime last night, Chief Superintendent Micheal Johnson appealed for witnesses to come forward and assist police with their investigation as they were unable to determine how the man got to the area or his identity.

Johnson said police remain concerned about the crime wave spreading across The Bahamas.

This murder took The Bahamas’ 2024 homicide figure to 38.

Two men charged in Saunders murder case

The accord announces creation of a national security council of Haitian experts who will oversee agreements on international security assistance, including on dispatch of the UN-backed mission. (AFP) Two men were remanded in custody this week accused of murdering former FNM MP Donald Saunders during a bar robbery last month.

Antigua: Man who impregnated his daughter admits to incest

A 51-year-old man has admitted guilt to four counts of incest spanning 2014 and 2015, involving his daughter. Their illicit relationship resulted in a child when she was just 15 years old. The victim disclosed reporting the abuse to her school counsellor at 11, triggering police involvement and her removal from the home. Despite this, her father manipulated her into recanting, allowing the abuse to persist. Instances of abuse included a

disturbing incident in June 2014 when the defendant, reeking of alcohol, assaulted her outside their home.

She got pregnant that December and even after the birth, the abuse continued, with the defendant engaging in sexual acts with her while pregnant and shortly after childbirth, exacerbating her postpartum condition.

Following contact with a welfare officer when the baby was around 6 months old, the victim was

relocated to a safe environment along with the child.

Despite an initial arrest in 2015, the case did not progress through the legal system until 2021 when the victim pursued legal action against the defendant for child support, leading to his subsequent arrest and formal charges.

The defendant is now on remand in His Majesty’s Prison and will be sentenced on May 10 by Justice Ann Marie Smith. (Loop News)

Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley charged Jaico Choute, 25, and Nicarson Nixon, 21, with murder, armed robbery and attempted armed robbery. The pair, armed with a handgun, were accused of shooting and killing Donald Saunders while trying to rob him at Rags Bar on the night of March 27. During this same robbery, the pair allegedly stole $650 from the establishment. The accused were told their case would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). After being informed of their right to apply for bail through the higher court, they were told they would be remanded to the Bahamas Department of

Correctional Services.

David Cash, who represented Nixon, objected to the Bar being listed as a complainant in the armed robbery charge as opposed to a specific person.

Prosecutor Inspector Deon Barr responded that specifics would be given later.

Magistrate Reckley also said that witnesses could be added later on.

Mr Cash told the court that his client was allegedly assaulted by police while in custody to produce an involuntary Record of Interview. The attorney asked that medical professionals see other defendants upon their remand.

Before being taken into custody, both defendants were allowed a moment with relatives in court. Their VBIs are set for service on May 30. (Tribune242)

Gangs continue to control Haiti

Former FNM MP Donald Saunders

Regional News

Food aid arrives in Haiti after police recover hijacked cargo ship

Gangs in Haiti continue to pose an immense threat to international aid workers and Haitians, though food assistance and humanitarian support continues to pour into the devastated nation.

The United Nations on Monday said some 500,000 hot meals had been served to more than 76,000 internally displaced people since early March, and 4 million litres of drinking water had been distributed to more than 60,000 people.

There have been efforts to supply aid to internally displaced people in Port-au-Prince and areas outside the capital. But gangs are countering these measures as seen in a five-hour shootout Saturday between Haitian police and gang members after they hijacked a cargo ship carrying 60,000 pounds of rice.

The Haitian National Police agency said two gangs dubbed the 5 Seconds and the Taliban gang were responsible for a hijacking Thursday as the cargo ship Magalie attempted to depart from the port of Varreux in the capital city on its way up to the northern coastal city of Cap-Haitien.

Two police officers were injured, and an unconfirmed number of gang members were killed in the shootout off the coast of Port-auPrince.

Police

their hands filled in Haiti

Some 10,000 bags of rice were reportedly stolen in the seizure, The Associated Press first reported.

The extreme violence in Haiti increasingly garnered international attention last year after gangs united under an unprecedented alliance and have since looked to take control of the capital city.

Though they have not gained complete control over the city, they have continued to wreak havoc on citizens, heavily targeting police forces, government agencies and once quiet suburban areas.

The humanitarian crisis that has ensued has prompted international aid groups and private entities to band together to provide much needed aid to Haiti as food insecurity soars.

On Monday, Goya Foods and The Jack Brewer Foundation began airlifting thousands of pounds of non-perishable food items like rice, beans, coconut water and various canned goods to remote areas in Haiti to reach “children and families in dire need of assistance and rescue,” Goya

Foods said in a statement obtained by Fox News Digital.

“As a company committed to giving back to our communities, it is our duty to provide aid to those most vulnerable, and we are grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of these children,” Bob Unanue, president and CEO of Goya Foods said.

Jack Brewer, chairman of the foundation that has worked in Haiti since 2010, has seen the crippling effects that a series

of natural disasters, a failing economy, the COVID pandemic and the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 has had on the nation.

Over the last few weeks, Brewer’s organization has also helped evacuate 150 Americans trapped in Haiti following the gang takeover and airport closures.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to Goya Foods for their invaluable partnership in aiding both the Americans stuck in Haiti and the people of Haiti during this dire time,” he told Fox News Digital. “Their generous support, including funding a mission to evacuate six Americans and providing thousands of pounds of food assistance to orphans and the most vulnerable Haitians, is instrumental in combating malnutrition amidst the looming famine exacerbated by the turmoil caused by gangs in the country.”

Brewer explained that, like most missions in Haiti, the food airlifts were no easy feat to plan as he had to ensure not only that the food is delivered to those most in need, but that the crew helping to deliver the assistance is kept safe.

Three food delivery missions were expected to be completed between Monday and Wednesday. (Foxnews)

Bahamas: ‘15 years too little for killing my son’

THE mother of Omar Davis, Jr –– the high-achieving young accountant killed in 2022 –– said the 15-year sentence her son’s killer has received is a “slap on the wrist” that does not bring justice.

Normand Toussaint, initially charged with murder, took a plea deal on Tuesday for a reduced charge of manslaughter. Supreme Court Justice Franklyn Williams, KC, sentenced him to 15 years imprisonment.

Omar’s partially decomposed body was found in a garbage bag in the trunk of a vehicle on August 16, 2022, after he reportedly suffered multiple wounds to his head and upper body, including stab wounds.

Omar’s mother, Gia Whymns, is puzzled by the case’s resolution, including why prosecutors settled for a manslaughter charge when the evidence for murder was allegedly strong.

“Why he couldn’t get 25 years?” she asked yesterday. “He should have been charged with murder because he jook Omar up more than once and he clean up everything, put him in the back of his trunk, jump in his car, had people helping

him, and park his car where his body start getting decomposed.”

“When I bury Omar, I couldn’t even had open coffin. I had to close the casket.”

Prosecutors have pursued plea deals partly to shorten the length of criminal trials and reduce the backlog of cases.

Ms Whymns, however, said she was initially assured that prosecutors would pursue the maximum penalty for Omar’s killer.

“The prosecutor told me when I first went to him for the interview, we get this, we get this, we get this, we got all the recordings and all of this and all of that we need to put him away for a long time,” she said.

“Then (Tuesday) he just jumped up and says, we ain’t taking no more than 15 years. He come to me like that was such a good thing and I was looking at this man like, mister, your head can’t be good, hey?”

Ms Whymns claimed prosecutors had a video showing someone helping Toussaint put Omar’s body in a car, but declined to charge that person because of

his age –– another decision she disagrees with.

Before his death, Omar had graduated with a double degree from Central State University, where he achieved a 4.0 cumulative GPA. He was scheduled to start an internship with a major accounting firm in Atlanta. During his childhood in Kemp Road, his father was murdered. His success,

despite his background, struck a chord with many who learned his story.

Prosecutors alleged that a fight broke out between Omar and Toussaint over something the former had on his phone.

Two years later, the question of what her son had on the phone still plagues Ms Whymns.

She said if she could talk to her

son again, she would ask him what was on the phone.

“What you have on this phone what this boy want that he want hurt you for?” she asked.

She added that speculation and inferences about her son’s sexuality haven’t diminished her love for him.

“I mean, I am hearing stuff but I can’t say because I don’t know,” she said. “I don’t know him the way people describe, at least not even people, what this Normand person describing him as.”

“But I don’t care if that was the case. I don’t care. I love my son no matter what.”

“That’s my son, nobody else.”

Ms Whymns said she has not forgiven her son’s murderer.

“All (Tuesday) he tell me ‘bout he sorry and this his first time killing and all kind different things,” she said. “He turn round and say have his deepest sympathy. I just shake my head because I ain’ even on your run right now. You done spending this little bit of time in jail, coming out and enjoying your life and take my son life?”

She said dealing with her son’s death has not gotten easier.

have

Omar’s partially decomposed body was found in a garbage bag in the trunk of a vehicle on August 16, 2022

Ukraine war: Key power plant near Kyiv destroyed by Russian strikes

A major power plant near Kyiv was completely destroyed by Russian strikes early on Thursday, energy company Centrenergo said.

Trypillya power plant was the largest provider of electricity for three regions, including Kyiv.

“The scale of destruction is terrifying,” Centrenergo chairman Andriy Hota said.

Russia has long been deliberately and systematically targeting Ukraine’s energy system.

Mr Hota told the BBC that Thursday morning’s strikes destroyed “the transformer, the turbines, the generators. They destroyed 100%”.

A fire broke out in the turbine workshop of the Trypillya plant - located 50km (31 miles) to the south of Kyiv - following Thursday’s large-scale airborne attack.

The Centrenergo boss said the plant was targeted by multiple missiles. Staff on shift were able to escape, he said, because they ran for cover as soon as the first drone

hit.

Residents were urged to shut their windows, charge all their devices and stock up on water.

More than 80 missiles and drones targeted sites across Ukraine in the early hours of Thursday. Many targeted energy infrastructure and almost a third made it through Ukraine’s air defences.

Hours later, Centrenergo confirmed its Trypillya plant had been put out of use. Mr Hota said his company’s entire generative capacity in Ukraine was now destroyed.

It was one of Ukraine’s largest providers of electricity and heat. It operated two other power plantsone in the Kharkiv region which was destroyed in late March, and one in an area of the Donetsk region that was taken over by Russia in 2022.

The Kharkiv and the Trypillya plants used to generate some 8% of the country’s electricity, according to Mr Hota. The Trypillya thermal plant provided power to the three

Canada wildfires: Officials warn of ‘explosive’ wildfire season

Canada’s government says it is preparing for another “explosive” wildfire season, for which it is training extra firefighters.

A warmer-than-normal winter has left little snow on the ground and has compounded droughts in several regions.

Last year was by far Canada’s worst for wildfires, with 15 million hectares (37 million acres) of forest burned.

Linking the issue to climate change, a minister warned that this year could prove even more devastating.

The summer was impossible

to predict, but wildfires would continue to pose a “significant challenge” for the foreseeable future, said Harjit Sajjan, the minister for emergency preparedness.

At a news conference, Mr Sajjan called attention to “extreme drought conditions” in southern Alberta, British Colombia and Southern Ontario.

He said above-normal temperatures had also caused earlier snow-melts, and that heat and dryness nationwide meant that the wildfire season was likely to start sooner.

Reform UK sorry for not knowing York candidate had died

central regions of Zhytomyr, Cherkasy and Kyiv.

The destruction of the Trypillya plant would not be a critical issue for Ukraine in the summer, he believed, although by winter it would become a “giant problem”.

While the plant can be rebuilt with help from spare parts from Europe, he says it will remain vulnerable to attack without Ukraine’s allies providing powerful air defences.

“We can repair. We can do the impossible. But we need protection.”

At least two more thermal power plants suffered “significant damage” overnight in the west of Ukraine, placing even more strain on electricity supply nationwide.

The DTEK power company was already down to 20% capacity after repeat attacks in March.

The company told the BBC that the latest missile and drone strike on these “purely civilian power stations” would make the task of providing critical power to the grid harder. (BBC)

Reform UK has issued an apology after a candidate who had died was dropped by its media team for being “inactive”.

Tommy Cawkwell, a volunteer for the RNLI, died after being picked to represent York Central at the next general election.

However, a spokesperson for the party told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that Mr Cawkwell had been one of 50 candidates who were dropped.

The party said they were “mortified” for not knowing he had died.

‘PROFUSE APOLOGY’

The spokesperson said: “The simple fact is that we have removed upwards of 50 candidates for complete inactivity and I know those who had been removed for disciplinary measures.

“Mr Cawkwell was clearly not one of those.

“Sadly I was unaware that he had died and I made an assumption based on the knowledge I possessed.

“I am mortified that my lack of care has caused his family pain, and I can only apologise profusely for my mistake.

“I do not know how to get hold of the family. If I did, I would apologise in person.”

Reform UK’s leader Richard Tice has previously said the party was looking to stand against every Conservative MP at the next general election, which is expected to be held before the end of the year.

Earlier this year, Lee Anderson became the first sitting MP for the party after defecting from the Conservative Party.

As well as finding a new York Central candidate, it was also looking to replace Julie Wilson, the former candidate for York Outer, who had been dropped by the party.

Other candidates for Reform UK have been dropped for liking tweets by former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson and former British National Party leader Nick Griffin.

Globally, last year was the hottest on record - driven by human-caused warning, but also boosted by a natural weather system called El Niño.

The continuing effects of El Niño mean that 2024 could see even higher temperatures.

Under a raft of measures, ministers say they will double a

tax credit available to volunteer firefighters, and will provide millions of dollars to provinces and territories for the purchase of specialised equipment.

Reform UK’s leader Richard Tice said the party is looking to stand against every Conservative MP at the next general election

The Trypillya power plant was the largest provider of electricity for three regions

A view of the Eagle Bluffs Wildfire last year - Canada’s worst-ever for wildfires

World News

Truong My Lan: Vietnamese billionaire sentenced to death for $44bn fraud

It was the most spectacular trial ever held in Vietnam, befitting one of the greatest bank frauds the world has ever seen.

Behind the stately yellow portico of the colonial-era courthouse in Ho Chi Minh City, a 67-year-old Vietnamese property developer was sentenced to death on Thursday for looting one of the country’s largest banks over a period of 11 years.

It’s a rare verdict - she is one of very few women in Vietnam to be sentenced to death for a white collar crime.

The decision is a reflection of the dizzying scale of the fraud. Truong My Lan was convicted of taking out $44bn (£35bn) in loans from the Saigon Commercial Bank. The verdict requires her to return $27bn, a sum prosecutors said may never be recovered. Some believe the death penalty is the court’s way of trying to encourage her to return some of the missing billions.

The habitually secretive communist authorities were uncharacteristically forthright about this case, going into minute detail for the media. They said 2,700 people were summoned to testify, while 10 state prosecutors and around 200 lawyers were involved.

The evidence was in 104 boxes weighing a total of six tonnes. Eighty-five others were tried with Truong My Lan, who denied the charges and can appeal.

All of the defendants were found guilty. Four received life in jail. The rest were given prison terms ranging from 20 years to three years suspended. Truong My Lan’s husband and niece received jail terms of nine and 17 years respectively.

“There has never been a show trial like this, I think, in the communist era,” says David Brown, a retired US state department official with long experience in Vietnam. “There has certainly been nothing on this scale.”

The trial was the most dramatic chapter so far in the “Blazing Furnaces” anti-corruption campaign led by the Communist Party Secretary-General, Nguyen Phu Trong.

A conservative ideologue steeped in Marxist theory, Nguyen Phu Trong believes that popular anger over untamed corruption poses an existential threat to the Communist Party’s monopoly on power. He began the campaign in earnest in 2016 after outmanoeuvring the then pro-business prime minister to retain the top job in the party.

The campaign has seen two presidents and two deputy prime ministers forced to resign, and hundreds of officials disciplined or jailed. Now one of the country’s richest women has joined their ranks.

Truong My Lan comes from a Sino-Vietnamese family in Ho Chi

Three men rescued off island due to beach ‘HELP’ sign

Three men were rescued by the US Coast Guard off an island in Micronesia after they sent out a plea for “HELP” using palm tree leaves.

They spelled out “HELP” with the leaves, which led to the rescue nine days after they left on a sailing trip.

They had been reported missing after failing to return from a journey to Pikelot Atoll - an uninhabited coral island about 415 miles from Guam.

It is the second time in four years people were rescued from the island.

The Coast Guard said in a statement that the three experienced mariners, all unnamed men in their 40s, had embarked on their sailing trip from Polowat Atoll - an island that is a part of the Federated States of Micronesia.

They departed on Easter Sunday

for Pikelot Atoll, about 115 miles away, in a traditional 20-foot skiff with an outboard motor, the Coast Guard added.

After failing to return, a relative of the men alerted the Coast Guard’s Joint Rescue Sub-Center in Guam that her three uncles were missing, sparking a search and rescue mission.

First responders were initially searching an area that was more than 78,000 square nautical miles in poor weather conditions. But then they spotted the men from the air - thanks to the makeshift “HELP” sign.

“In a remarkable testament to their will to be found, the mariners spelled out ‘HELP’ on the beach using palm leaves, a crucial factor in their discovery,” said Lt Chelsea Garcia, who led the search and rescue mission the day they were

Minh City, formerly Saigon. It has long been the commercial engine of the Vietnamese economy, dating well back to its days as the anti-communist capital of South Vietnam, with a large, ethnic Chinese community.

She started as a market stall vendor, selling cosmetics with her mother, but began buying land and property after the Communist Party ushered in a period of economic reform, known as Doi Moi, in 1986. By the 1990s, she owned a large portfolio of hotels and restaurants.

Although Vietnam is best known outside the country for its fast-growing manufacturing sector, as an alternative supply chain to China, most wealthy Vietnamese made their money developing and speculating in property.

All land is officially stateowned. Getting access to it often relies on personal relationships with state officials. Corruption escalated as the economy grew, and became endemic.

By 2011, Truong My Lan was a well-known business figure in Ho Chi Minh City, and she was allowed to arrange the merger of three smaller, cash-strapped banks into a larger entity: Saigon Commercial Bank.

Vietnamese law prohibits any individual from holding more than 5% of the shares in any bank. But prosecutors say that through hundreds of shell companies and

people acting as her proxies, Truong My Lan actually owned more than 90% of Saigon Commercial.

They accused her of using that power to appoint her own people as managers, and then ordering them to approve hundreds of loans to the network of shell companies she controlled.

The amounts taken out are staggering. Her loans made up 93% of all the bank’s lending.

According to prosecutors, over a period of three years from February 2019, she ordered her driver to withdraw 108 trillion Vietnamese dong, more than $4bn (£2.3bn) in cash from the bank, and store it in her basement.

That much cash, even if all of it was in Vietnam’s largest denomination banknotes, would weigh two tonnes.

She was also accused of bribing generously to ensure her loans were never scrutinised. A former chief inspector at the central bank was given a life sentence for accepting a $5m bribe.

The mass of officially sanctioned publicity about the case channelled public anger over corruption against Truong My Lan, whose fatigued, unmade-up appearance in court was in stark contrast to the glamorous publicity photos people had seen of her in the past.

But questions are also being asked about why she was able to keep on with the alleged fraud for so long. (BBC)

The

located.

“This act of ingenuity was pivotal in guiding rescue efforts directly to their location,” she said.

Coast Guard personnel then airdropped survival packages and a radio to the men while a US Coast Guard vessel made its way to the island.

The mariners later radioed back and said they were in good health and had access to food and water, the US Coast Guard said.

They also had recovered their skiff, which sustained damage that rendered it non-functional, and said they needed help getting back to Polowat.

After departing on their voyage on 31 March, the sailors were officially rescued off the island on 9 April.

The US Coast Guard said the rescue is an example of the strong coordination between the US and the Federal States of Micronesia, as well as US Navy personnel who

are stationed in the area.

Micronesia, in the western Pacific, consists of some 600 tiny islands scattered over a vast ocean expanse.

“Every life saved, and every mariner returned home is a testament to the enduring partnership and mutual respect that characterizes our relationship,” said Lt Cdr Christine Igisomar, who was also part of the search and rescue mission.

Truong My Lan is accused of looting one of Vietnam’s largest banks over a period of 11 years

‘HELP’ sign was crucial in saving the stranded mariners

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

ON POST CABINET STATEMENTS

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 10th April 2024 - The Turks and Caicos Government apologizes for the delay in the publication of the Post Cabinet Statements, which was due to staff shortages in the Cabinet Office. The statements issued include all meetings of the Cabinet held thus far during the calendar year 2024. Statements going forward will revert to being issued on a weekly basis following the meetings of the Cabinet.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – JANUARY 10, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam chaired the 1st meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday January 10, 2024 at the Office of the Premier on the island of Providenciales.

All members were in attendance. At this meeting Cabinet:

• Approved the grant of an easement over Crown Parcel 10101/26 to a named individual.

• Approved the implementation of a Digital Card Embarkation System by the Ministry of Tourism to capture tourism intelligence data.

• Noted an information the paper from the Ministry of Tourism on the participation of the Minister of Tourism at the COP 28 Conference and on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

• Noted an information paper from the Ministry of Tourism on Experience Turks and Caicos, including recruitment, key performance indicators achieved to date and plans for the first year of operation.

• Approved an additional allocation of funds for the MSME Programme to provide cash grants and technical assistance to qualified MSMEs through to the end of the financial year.

• Noted the award of the contract PN 005682, TR 23/54 Highway and Road Improvements Grand Turk in line with the Public Procurement Ordinance.

• Noted an information paper submitted by the Ministry of Home Affairs on the progress made to date on the Local Government initiative.

• Reaffirmed its position on Public Registers of Beneficial Ownership.

• Received a courtesy call from representatives of the Caribbean Development Bank who were visiting the islands.

• Received updates on the following areas:

o Fire at the Providenciales Dumpsite

o Waste management collection

o Relocation of the HOA back to the NJS Francis Building, and o Prisoner Transfer.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – JANUARY 17, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, chaired the 2nd meeting of Cabinet on Wednesday, 17th January 2024 at Waterloo, Grand Turk.

All Members of Cabinet were present. At this meeting Cabinet:

• Approved the Migrant Health Needs Assessment. A team from UKHSA (the UK Health Security Agency) will be providing technical support with a Migrant Health Needs Assessment to understand the heath profile and needs of the migrant communities across the islands.

• Approved the recommendations to improve waste management practices within the TCI.

• Approved the implementation of the National Health Sector Strategic Plan (NHSSP) 2024-2027.

• Considered a proposal for the waiver of penalty and interests for all HRTT registrants with outstanding liability up to October 21st, 2023.

• Approved a license over a portion of parcel 20309/9 for the purpose of developing a roundabout and implementing general landscaping activities for the enhancement of the entrance to the East Bay Resort.

• Approved the review of the recommendations of the Supervisor of Elections following consultation on the recommendations arising following the 2021 general elections and will decide which of those

recommendations should be approved ahead of the next general elections.

• Approved the proposed amendments to the Crown Land Ordinance (CLO) to introduction additional mechanism for the allocation of Crown land for commercial development.

• Approved the extension of the provisions that are unavailable under the existing Amnesty Ordinance to applicants who may have either,

o Received an offer letter for a lease or freehold title over a parcel of Crown land but have not subsequently taken the necessary steps to obtain formal title to the land, and have commenced development on the land.

o Held a residential conditional purchase lease and commenced development on the land but the lease has been cancelled.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – JANUARY 24, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, chaired the 3rd meeting of Cabinet held on Wednesday 24th January 2024 at the Governor’s Office on Providenciales.

All Members were present except the Deputy Governor. At this meeting Cabinet:

• Approved the Post Office (Amendment) Bill 2023 amending the Post Office Ordinance to recognize the Turks and Caicos Islands Post Services as the designated postal operator in the Turks and Caicos Islands to ensure compliance with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) convention.

• Conditionally approved the Planning Application PR 17359 for the construction of a Mausoleum for Healing Water Ministry in Blue Hills, Providenciales. Approval is granted subject to the requirements under the Cemeteries Ordinance being met.

• Reviewed and approved the Legislative Agenda 2024 by Ministry and Office.

• Approved a bill to be drafted for round robin consideration to extend the transition period for all current Notaries Public to reapply from 31 January 2024 to 30 April 2024.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – FEBRUARY 5TH, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, chaired the 4th meeting of Cabinet on Monday, 5th February 2024 at the Office of the Premier on the island of Providenciales.

The Minister for Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture and Religious Affairs was absent on official duties.

All other Members of Cabinet were present. At this meeting Cabinet:

• Approved the extension of the Moratorium on the issuance of business licenses for construction companies in the contractor’s category with non-Turks and Caicos Islanders involvement commencing February 1, 2024 through to July 31, 2024.

o Companies where a non-Turks and Caicos Islander or non-Turks and Caicos Islander associate company holds shares of any percent in the company;

o Partnerships where one (1) of the partners is a non-Turks and Caicos Islander; or

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT ON POST CABINET STATEMENTS continued

o In the case of a sole trader, where that individual is a non- Turks and Caicos Islander.

• Approved the Dogs (Control) (Amendment) Bill 2024 and gave approval to transit the Dogs Control (Amendment) Bill 2024 to the House of Assembly for debate and enactment once the implementation plan has been presented.

• Approved an amendment to Section 7 of the Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency Ordinance to enable the Agency, with the approval of the Governor, to borrow money by way of loan, advance or overdraft and obtain goods on credit in order to discharge its functions.

• Approved the 3rd Supplementary Appropriation for Financial year 2023/2024 and granted approval to table the estimates in the House of Assembly.

• Approved the Supplementary Appropriation No. 3 for 2023/2024 – Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) and endorsed the changes to the projects in the Development Fund

• Approved the publication of the 2023-2024 3rd Quarter financial report.

• Approved that the lease over parcel 60503/77/1 be assigned to Detra Danielle Morris subject to all conditions and obligations contained in the original lease which was granted to Maxwell McDonald Clare.

• Approved that the lease over parcel 60503/306/1 be assigned to Kamardia Roxann S. Simmons subject to all conditions and obligations contained in the original lease which was granted to Karen Anthea Simmons.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – FEBRUARY 7TH, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, chaired the 5th meeting of Cabinet held on Wednesday February 7th, 2024 at the Office of the Premier on the island of Providenciales. The Minister for Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture and Religious Affairs was absent.

All other Ministers and Members of Cabinet were present. At this meeting Cabinet:

• Approved a long-term (49 years) lease over parcel 10503/04 consisting of 0.60 acres to Olympic Fuel Services Ltd for the continuing operation of a fuel depot, at an annual rent to be determined by the Chief Valuation Officer.

• Approved the counter offer made by the Attorneys in the matter of CL 74/23 Anthony Rigby (as the representative of Hilton Arnold Rigby) v The Attorney General of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

• Approved amendments to the Health Professions Ordinance and Regulations.

• Approved the appointment of Mr. Lex de Jong as CEO to the Health Insurance Plan for a period of two years.

• Approved the appointment of the Leader of the Opposition’s nominee as member to the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) in accordance with the Ordinance for a period of three (3) years effective February 1, 2024 and ending no later than January 31st 2027.

• It noted the update provided by the Minister of Health on the completion and planned launch of the new Migrant Health Evaluation System.

• Received a presentation by the Energy and Utilities Commissioner Mr. Delano Arthur on the Key components of the Renewable Energy Legislation which aims to not only mitigate the impact of volatile fuel prices but also secures a sustainable, reliable and affordable energy future.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – FEBRUARY 21, 2024:

Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 6th meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday February 21, 2024 on the island of

Providenciales.

All members were present. At this meeting, Cabinet:

• Approved that Monday June 17th, 2024 be declared a public holiday in the Turks and Caicos Islands to mark the official birthday of His Majesty King Charles III and that a publication of an updated list of official public holidays for 2024 be issued to this effect

• Approved the funding of the mandatory training requirements for all current Non- Attorneys; and funding for a further 10 a further 10 Notary Public for new applications of Non-Attorney Notary Publics and the guided distribution of same for the first year of operation of the new Notary Public regime

• Approved the Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Taxation (Exemption) Regulations 2023 which grants an exemption of the HRTT for a special class of business for an agreed period.

• Approved the Draft Multi Sector Regulator Policy and authorized the Energy and Utilities Department to conduct consultations on the policy with major stakeholders.

• Approved a proposal to expand the visiting consultant service to the TCI Hospital to include a visiting Pediatric Cardiologist.

• Approved the vesting of a number of approved properties in the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority for the redevelopment and expansion of the North Caicos and Providenciales Airports

• Noted the award of the following contracts in line with the process according to the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance:

• PN 005735, TR 23/38, Replacement Vehicle - Governor

• PN 005807, TR 23/12, Technical Support Services for Crown Land Unit

• Instructed the Attorney Generals Chambers to amend the fee schedule for bespoke treatment of Principals of specialty schools.

• Approved the tender of Parcel 10405/230 in keeping with Section 34 of the Crown Land Ordinance 2012

• Approved revised remuneration packages for the President and Vice President of the Labour Tribunal in line with the present Public Service Pay and Grading Review

• Approved the conduct of an online pilot nutrition survey, which if approved by the Cabinet will support the MOH in developing programmes and policies to improve the diets of TCI residents to improve their health

• Approved the Draft Civil Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2024 for advancement to the House of Assembly for debate and passage

• Approved options for the implementation of Domestic Fiber Cable in the Turks and Caicos Islands to improve the quality of telecommunication services.

• Reviewed and approved proposals for an amendment of the National Physical Development Plan (NPDP)

• Discussed an application from Fortis TCI for a 6% increase in electricity rates by Fortis TCI and agreed next steps to assess the proposed rate increase put forward by Fortis TCI.

• Noted on ongoing litigation by Fortis TCI on the Renewable Energy Bill.

• Granted approval for an application to extend the timeline for the completion of a hotel refurbishment project due to logistical challenges.

• Approved the reappointment of the Director General of Telecommunications Mr. Kenva Williams for a period of 3 years effective April 1, 2024.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – MARCH 6TH, 2024

Her Excellency the Acting Governor Anya Williams chaired the 7th Meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday March 6th, 2024 at the Office of the Premier and Public Policy on the island of Providenciales.

All members were present with the exception of Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel Selveratnam.

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT ON POST CABINET STATEMENTS continued

• Approved the appointment of Mr. Leonardo Patrick as a member of the TCI National Wealth Fund Board as per Section 19 (1)(e) for a period of 3 years commencing March 2024

• Approved the use of Electronic Voting Machines in the upcoming elections and for the Elections Office to source an appropriate voting solution for use

• Approved for a Provisional Warrant Resolution to be advanced to the next sitting of the House of Assembly to withdraw from the Consolidated Fund.

• Approved an application from the Election Office for funding from the Contingency Fund to fund the cost of electronic voting machines in preparation for the next TCI general elections

• Approved amendments to the Companies and Limited Partnerships (Economic Substance) Ordinance for progression to the House of Assembly for debate and passage and approved for a scale of fines to be implemented for non-compliance

• Approved the execution of the draft Development Order between the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCIG) and Desarrollo’s Hotelco WA Ltd. For the construction of the St. Regis Hotel.

• Received a presentation from the Energy and Utilities Department on ongoing work in the energy sector.

• Approved a lease agreement for the Office of the Department of Public Prosecutions in the Salt Mills Plaza on the island of Providenciales for a period of 5 years.

• Approved a renewal of the lease agreement for the Department of fisheries and Marine Resources in the SDR Commercial Centre on the island of Providenciales.

• Approved a renewal of the lease for the Social Development and Gender Affairs Departments at the Clarabelle Garland Building on the island of Grand Turk for a period of 5 years.

• Approved a lease agreement for the relocation of the Communications Directorate including Radio Turks and Caicos to the Stubbs Diamond Plaza on the island of Providenciales for a period of 5 years.

• Approved the retention of TCI Ports Authority excess revenue to allow the TCI Ports Authority to fund critical infrastructure projects.

• Approved the following appointments on the Fisheries Advisory Committee effective March 12th, 2024 for a period of 2 years: Director of Fisheries and Marine Affairs – Chairman

Tomlinson Skippings

Tamell Seymour

Allenray Smith

Franklyn Bain (new appointee)

PS or Designate

• Approved the appointment of Ms. Dawn Higgs as the Leader of the Oppositions’ nominee to the National Health Insurance Board for a period of 3 years.

• Approved a strategy for the expansion of the Providenciales Port.

• Approved amendments to the Turks and Caicos Islands Scholarship Bond Requirements.

• Discussed escalating violent and unrest in Haiti and the TCI’s planned response.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – MARCH 13TH, 14TH, 15TH, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam chaired the 8th meeting of the Cabinet at the Office of the Premier and Public Policy on the island of Providenciales on Wednesday March 13, 2024, Thursday March 14, 2024 and Friday March 15, 2024

All members were present with the exception of the Minister with responsibility for the Ministry of Home Affairs.

AT THIS MEETING CABINET:

• Approved the Draft Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for 2024-25 for progression to the House of Assembly for debate and passage.

• Approved a 20% increase in retiring allowance for former legislators effective April 1, 2024.

• Approved a negotiated Development Agreement between the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Molo Hotels (Turks and Caicos) Ltd and Molo Operations (Turks and Caicos) Ltd.

• Approved the Draft Asylum Bill 2024 for progression to the House of Assembly for debate and passage.

• Approved a Claim Against Government for the restoration of damaged rooms at the Turks and Caicos Airport Inn

• Approved a reduction of the rate of additional charge on the importation of fuel by 25% for a period of 12 months effective March 15, 2024.

• Approved the appointment of the following members to the Health Regulation Authority Board for a period of 3 years effective March 18th, 2024:

• Mervyn “Matt” Mills

• Helen Seymour-Bhagwandin

• Bishop Vernal G Clarke J.P.

• Approved the reclassification of the Operations Manager post in the Health Regulation Authority

• Noted the award of the following contracts in line with the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance:

• PN 005766, TR 23/59 Vehicle for Housing

• FSC 006/2023-2024, TR 23/53 Furniture and Equipment for TCIFSC

• TCIPA 04/22, TR 23/41 Bellefield Landing Master Plan Phase 2Construction of Gazebo

• TCIPA 04/22, TR 23/63 Bellefield Landing Master Plan Phase 2Construction of Water Sports Building

• Approved an exemption of stamp duty on the initial sale of share and the redemption of ordinary or preferred shares from shareholders of Hamilton Education Foundation Ltd. in line with the Investment Policy

• Approved a proposal to establish direct international airline services from Miami to South Caicos via American Airlines and also discussed international airlift options for the island of Grand Turk.

• Approved a waiver of all assessed penalty and interest related to Hotel and Tourism and Related Tax (HRTT) as of December 31, 2024.

POST CABINET STATEMENT – MARCH 20TH, 2024

Her Excellency the Acting Governor Anya Williams chaired the 9th meeting of the Cabinet at Waterloo on the island of Grand Turk on Wednesday March 20, 2024.

All Cabinet Members were present with the exception of the Governor, Honourable Minister for Immigration and Border Services and Honourable Minister responsible for Tourism and the Environment.

AT THIS MEETING CABINET:

• Approved the Revised Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure Volume 1 and Volume 2 2024-2025 for progression to the House of Assembly for debate and passage

• Approved a Supplementary Appropriation No. 4 - Public Sector Investment Programme/Capital Programme for FY 2023/2024 for progression to the House of Assemy debate and passage

• Approved the establishment of a Mortgage Corporation and associated seed funding

• Approved amendments to the National Wealth Fund Ordinance to permit the holding of the funds in escrow until the Mortgage Corporation is

established.

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

ON POST CABINET STATEMENTS continued

POST CABINET STATEMENT – MARCH 27TH, 2024

Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam chaired the 10th meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday March 27, 2024 at the Office of the Premier on the island of Providenciales.

All members were in attendance with the exception of the Honourable Attorney General who was represented by the Deputy Attorney General.

AT THIS MEETING CABINET:

• Approved a negotiated development agreement between the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Ellipse Development Ltd., Ellipse Holdings Ltd. for a Multipurpose Commercial and Residential Development on Providenciales per ITCIA Ordinance Section 5 (a)

• Discussed the rate variation application submitted by Fortis TCI on February 14, 2024

• Approved an amendment to the Customs Tariff to reduce the rate of duty on modular elements from 30% to 8% effective March 28, 2024

• Approved a waiver of the payment of warehouse rent in respect of goods deposited at the Customs Controlled Areas between the period April 1, 2023 through March 15, 2024.

• Noted the award the following contracts, which are in line with the process according to the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance:

• o I. PN 005688, TR 23/10, Replacement Vehicles for DepartmentsMinister of Tourism (resubmission)

o II. TCIAA 11/21, TR 23/100, Perimeter Fencing

o III. TCICAA 01/2023, TR 23/83, Vehicle for TCICAA

o IV. TCISA 01/2023, TR 22/94, Vehicle for Statistics Authority

o V. PN 005838, SSP, Equipment for Electoral

o VI. TCIAA 09/2023, TR 23/103, Completion of Airside Walk Way Canopy

• Approved an exemption of Accommodation Tax payable in specified circumstances under the Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism (Taxation) Ordinance for the 3rd Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers Conference: 2nd-6th April 2024, Providenciales

• Approved an extension of the deadline to cash cheques that have been committed to the estate of the original beneficiary. Final deadline to be September 30, 2024

ROUND ROBIN APPROVALS:

CABINET ON MARCH 28TH, 2024 VIA ROUND ROBIN CONSIDERATION:

• Granted approval to the TCI Telecommunication Commission to enter into a single source contractual arrangement on behalf of the Government for the surveying and installation of a Branching Unit (BU) into the subsea fiber-optic cable system near Providenciales to support international connectivity.

• Granted approval to the TCI Telecommunication Commission to secure/ retain USD 5 million from the Government Budget 2023/2024 for the implementation/installation of a second international link into the Turks and Caicos Islands on completion of the procurement and necessary due diligence.

• Granted approval for the purchase and retrofit of a building located on 51000/11 Whitby, North Caicos for operation as an age care facility by the Ministry of Health and Human Services, North Caicos, subject to satisfactory findings following a structural assessment.

• Noted the request for a New MSME Concession Order for Rolle’s Estates

dba Ms. Hannah Villas, a recipient of the MSME Programme.

• It granted approval, under Section 71 (1) of the Customs Ordinance, CAP. 19.04, an exemption of duty for Rolle’s Estates dba Ms. Hannah Villas $60,871.22 for a period of 12 months.

• Approved a payment that is owing to Interhealth Canada following the Tribunal’s Third Partial Award in the arbitration with IHC dated 26 February 2024 (the “Award”) which sets out the Tribunal’s rulings in relation to the Phase 1(b) Hearing.

• Noted the request for a New MSME Concession Order for Rolle’s Estates dba Ms. Hannah Villas, a recipient of the MSME Programme

• Granted approval, under Section 71 (1) of the Customs Ordinance, CAP. 19.04, an exemption of duty for Rolle’s Estates dba Ms. Hannah Villas $60,871.22 for a period of 12 months.

• Approved the purchase of 60000/766, located at North West and Central Providenciales to be made available for the Housing Programme.

• Cabinet on March 30th, 2024 via round robin consideration:

• Noted and approved the additional funding for various capital projects from the 3rd Supplementary Appropriation (2023/2024) and the 4th Supplementary Appropriation (2023/2024) which were approved by the House of Assembly and subsequently assented to by the Governor on 22 February 2024 and 26 March 2024 respectively.

1. 60-043-005590 Consultancy Framework Agreement $200,000.00 4th Supplementary Appropriation. Funding to close off previous Contract for Framework Agreements [TR 20/18, TR 20/80, PWD 20/13 C]

2. 60-043-005683 Remediation Works to Ponds and Bridges $252,093.00 4th Supplementary Appropriation. Funding for a proposed variation to the Contract for Remediation Works to Bridges in Grand Turk [TR 23/01, PWD 23/01 C]

3. 54-111-005805 Climate Resilience Coastal Management $500,000.00 3rd Supplementary Appropriation. Funding to provide additional services for the Climate Resilient Coastal Protection and Management project.

• Noted the award the following contracts, which are in line with the process according to the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance:

• PN 005590, TR 23/71, Consultancy Framework Agreement for Public Works

• PN 005664, TR 23/34, Furniture and Equipment for North Caicos Court Building

• PN 005677, TR 23/89, SWRO Plant – Construction of Warehouse Building in Grand Turk

• PN 005688, Replacement Vehicles for Departments

• TR 23/10, Replacement Vehicles for Departments - Minister of Tourism (resubmission)

• TR 23/62, Vehicles for Departments

• TR 23/93, Vehicles for Departments – Customs K9

• PN 005698, TR 23/95, Vehicle for NSS

• PN 005729, TR 23/37, Vehicles for Immigration

• PN 005734, TR 23/66, Framework Agreement for Housing Project Initiative – Program 2

• PN 005742, TR 23/68, Consultancy for Geodetic Global Navigation Satellite Systems

• PN 005745, TR 23/84, Furniture and Equipment for Statistics Authority

• PN 005750, TR 23/81, Community Parks Development – Five Cays and Kew Town

• PN 005754, TR 23/18, Repairs to RGHS Art Block

• PN 005762, TR 23/08, Back-up Generators including Housing

• PN 005767, TR 23/85, Furniture and Equipment for Housing

• PN 005770, TR 23/51, Biosecurity Unit

• PN 005781, TR 23/86, Purchase of Incinerator

• PN 005784, TR 23/96, Furniture and Equipment for the Eliza Basden Aged Care and Special Needs Center

• PN 005788, TR 23/98, Ambulances for Islands

• 18. PN 005803, TR 23/76, Community Roads All Islands – Providenciales

• 19. PN 005806, TR 23/102, Leeward Highway Rehabilitation Works

Mister Cee, ‘legendary’ New York City disc jockey, dead at 57

Mister Cee, a beloved and influential figure in hip-hop, who served as the DJ for rapper Big Daddy Kane and is credited with helping to discover The Notorious B.I.G., has died, according to his former employer, New York’s Hot 97 hip-hop radio station. He was 57.

“As a family at HOT 97 and

WBLS, we’re deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mister Cee,” reads the statement posted on Hot 97’s site. “He wasn’t just a DJ; he was a pillar of our stations, bringing joy to countless listeners with his legendary Throwback at Noon and Friday Night Live sets.”

“Mr. Cee’s influence stretched

far beyond the airwaves, shaping the very fabric of NYC’s DJ culture,” the statement goes on to read. “Our hearts are heavy as we send our love and condolences to his family and the fans whose lives he touched through his music. Rest easy, Mr. Cee. Your legacy will live forever.”

No cause of death was shared.

Mister Cee served as the DJ for rapper Big Daddy Kane and is credited with helping to discover The Notorious B.I.G

JK Rowling reignites row with Harry Potter stars Radcliffe and Watson

Author JK Rowling has reignited a row with Harry Potter stars Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe over the issue of transgender identity and rights.

The writer hit out at “celebs” who she said had “used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors”.

Radcliffe and Watson are among the film’s cast members who spoke out against Rowling’s stance on gender identity in 2020.

The BBC has asked Radcliffe and Watson for responses to her latest comments.

Rowling has also welcomed a review that raised concerns about gender identity services for under18s.

On Wednesday, the Cass Review said children had been let down by “remarkably weak” evidence on medical intervention in gender care.

Rowling described the report as “a watershed moment”.

One social media user replied to her: “Just waiting for Dan and Emma to give you a very public apology... safe in the knowledge that you will forgive them...”

The Harry Potter author responded: “Not safe, I’m afraid.

“Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women’s hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces.”

Rowling has been accused of being transphobic for her views on gender identity and for saying trans women shouldn’t be allowed into female-only spaces.

She also recently challenged police in Scotland, where she lives, to arrest her under a new hate crime law after she described several trans women as men. Police Scotland decided not to take any action.

The writer has attracted both criticism and support for her position, and has dismissed backlash over her opinions.

She has denied being transphobic, previously saying she respects “every trans person’s right to live any way that feels authentic and comfortable to them” and that she wants trans people to be free from discrimination and abuse.

Radcliffe, who played the young wizard in the Harry Potter films, responded to Rowling’s original posts in 2020 by saying: “It’s clear that we need to do more to support transgender and nonbinary people, not invalidate their identities.”

He added that he hoped the author’s comments would not “taint” the movie series for fans.

Watson said: “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they aren’t who they say they are.”

Eddie Redmayne, star of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, based on Rowling’s book, also said in 2020: “I disagree with Jo’s comments. Trans women are women, trans men are men and non-binary identities are valid.”

Meanwhile Rupert Grint said: “I firmly stand with the trans community... Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgment.”

Ralph Fiennes, who played Potter villain Lord Voldemort, came to the author’s defence, calling the abuse she received “disgusting” and “appalling”.

Other stars including Eddie Izzard and Helena Bonham Carter, who played Bellatrix Lestrange, have also said they do not consider Rowling’s views to be transphobic, but reflective of her own experience of abuse.

JK Rowling said stars had “cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women’s hard-won rights”

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 232-5144

CONTACT: 649-232-5144

CONTACT: 231-0595

CONTACT: 344-2235

Applicant must have experience as a Floral Assistant or Florist. Must have extensive knowledge of tropical flowers, foliage and potted plants, including their names, seasonal availability and lifespan. Candidates must have experience using current styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for weddings, funerals etc. salary commensurate with experience.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-4272

• Sanitize, disinfect, and clean guest rooms, including but not limited to kitchens, bathrooms, counters, furniture, patios/balconies, glass doors and windows, making beds, sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, polishing, and mopping

• Stock supplies in guest rooms, such as shampoo, soap, toilet tissue, etc.

• Sanitize, disinfect, and clean common areas, including but not limited to hallways, stairs, elevators, glass railings, front desk/reception, offices, public bathrooms, garbage rooms, gym, and any other interior/exterior areas of the property

• Maintain the laundry storage room in a clean and orderly manner

• Inform management of any problems noted that require attention

Salary: $8.00 per hour.

Must be able to complete heavy lifting and working on feet for extended periods of time both indoors and outdoors, doing manual and physical labour. Must be able to work effectively and efficiently, while maintaining attention to detail. Must be willing to work up to 6 days per week, including weekends. Must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19.

8

Learn how to become a Casino Table Dealer! Offering a FREE 6 WEEK COURSE for suitable applicants. Certificate of Completion and possible opportunity for future employment to candidates who successfully finish course.

Please submit your resume addressed to HR at the Casablanca Casino located at 226 Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email your resume to info@casablanca.tc.

Suitable candidates will be contacted with course dates and times.

PLEASE NOTE THAT WORK PERMIT HOLDERS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. 42031

WHITBY,

Take order, prepare beverages for bar and restaurant patrons, plan and present bar menus, place food orders, maintain bar, greeting and serving guests and waiting tables.

Relevant training certificate is a plus.

Work hours between 7am – 10 pm daily.

Salary Range: $10 - $11 hourly

Maintain landscape, pool area and property cleanliness. Ensure all common areas are kept cleaned, daily trash disposal, laundry and kitchen assistance as needed and perform other task assigned by management.

Work hours between 6am – 11 pm daily.

Salary: $9.50 hourly

2 PLUMBERS-$14 hourly Lay pipes.

2

2

$1,200 weekly

CONTACT: 333-5559

Supervising rebar and engineering lay-out. PROJECT MANAGER/ QUANTITY SURVEYOR $1,200 weekly Plans project resources and prepare budgets.

4 CONSTRUCTION LABOURERS $9 Hourly Mixing concrete.

5 STEELMEN

$10 Hourly

structural steel.

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CAICOS VACATIONS

Caicos Vacations is looking to hire an

CAICOS DREAM TOURS

Caicos Dream Tours is a renowned boat excursion tour company specializing in providing memorable and immersive experiences in Turks and Caicos Islands!

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER

Are you passionate about shaping company culture and building exceptional teams? Do you thrive in dynamic environments where your ideas can make a real impact? Caicos Dream Tours is seeking a talented HR Manager to establish and lead our new HR department.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

As our HR Manager, you will have the unique opportunity to assess the development of our HR department from the ground up. You will be responsible for creating and implementing HR policies, procedures and initiatives that align with our company values and support our strategic objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the overall business strategy.

• Establish HR policies and procedures in compliance with Turks and Caicos Labour Law and industry best practices.

• Oversee all aspects of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, offboarding, scheduling, etc.

• Drive employee engagement and retention efforts through innovative programs and initiatives.

• Provide guidance and support to managers and employees on HR related matters.

• Implement and manage HRIS to streamline processes and enhance data management capabilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field

• 4+ years of HR experience, including at least 2 years in managerial role.

• Strong knowledge of HR best practices, employment laws and regulations.

• Experience developing and implementing HR policies, procedures, and initiatives.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal and leadership skills.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary

• Flexible working opportunities

• Training provided to enhance skills and knowledge.

• Work in a dynamic and passionate team.

IF YOU ARE READY TO EMBARK ON A FULFILLING CAREER AT CAICOS DREAM TOURS, APPLY NOW BY SUBMITTING YOUR RESUME TO CAREERS@ CAICOSDREAMTOURS.COM. DON’T FORGET TO MENTION FOR WHICH POSITION YOU DESIRE TO APPLY! JOIN US IN CREATING UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES FOR OUR GUESTS!

Assistant Manager of Operations. Candidates must be able to operate Word, Excel, and basic computer functions. Candidates must have at least 5 years of prior experience in high volume property management and guest services. Candidates must have no criminal record and be willing to work long hours during high season. Pay will be based on experience.

• Maintain home landscape, Cleanliness fly and pest control

• Performing manual labour

• Work long hours, holidays and weekends & physically fit

• 5 years’ experience in farming.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

Candidates must have at least five (5) years’ experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION

DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

This position requires someone with at least five (5) years’ experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

COURT REPORTER

College or high school graduate with at least five (5) years’ experience in community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based.

The Risk Manager of IT & Specialized Assurance will understand our clients’ operations, their industry and the issues they face in order to provide risk and other advisory services. The combination of our specialist skills, industry expertise and on-going investment allows us to anticipate complex business problems for our clients and recommend preventative action. The incumbent will be responsible for a portfolio of clients on a day-to-day basis which will include planning, day-to-day management of the team including review of testing and reports, liaison with key client staff and the management of the reporting process. The incumbent will be expected to drive quality and client service excellence, actively develop and mentor their team and participate actively in business development opportunities.

WHAT WILL YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?

As a manager you’ll manage a portfolio of clients to which you bring deep expertise to help them solve their complex risk management problems. You don’t just solve their problem, you get to the root of it. You take pride in leading a team through testing and reports, as well as liaising with key client staff and managing the reporting process. You play a pivotal role in helping organizations transform how they think about security. You help companies find balance between control and risk, maximizing their potential and agility. You enjoy motivating your team and seeking out new business.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree with strong academic credentials in Business/ Accounting, Computer Science, Engineering, Management Information Systems or Risk related field is strongly preferred

• Qualified in a minimum of one or more of the following designations: CIA, CISM, CISA, CISSP, CIIP/E, CIPM, CEH, and/or other related certifications

• 5+ years practical experience working in business or technology risk within a professional services firm or large scale business; 3+ years post qualification experience preferred

PREFERRED:

• Experience in a Professional services firm or large business.

The salary for this position will be based on qualifications and experience and will range from $65,000.00 - $70,000.00. Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders can also submit copies of their application to the Labour Department/ TCI Work Permit Board.

This is a new position

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• Information reporting- Communicate with clients and staff both verbally and electronically.

• Identify system issues and propose resolutions and inform clients and Maintenance Manager

• Industrial Affiliation in Mechanical Certificate

• MEP-Construction Background

• Problem-solving skill

• Project control and planning

• AutoCAD 2D & 3D

• Microsoft office

• Monitoring and site supervision experience

• Salary 700-800 / week base on experience and qualification

CAICOS DREAM TOURS

Excursion Tour Company offering a range of excursions, including snorkeling, group boat tours or private charters.

BOAT CAPTAIN

• Valid Turks and Caicos Captain License

• Experience in a tour excursion company

• Safely operate and navigate boats for various tours

• Excellent communication skills and exceptional customer service

MATE (CREW)

• Experience in a tour excursion company

• Assist the Boat Captain in safely operating and navigating during tours.

• Excellent communication skills and exceptional customer service

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE TECHNICIAN AND AGENT

• Both technician and agent will be responsible for customer inquiries, phone calls, bookings, email and reservations.

• Greeting customers warmly and assisting with check-in procedures

• Previous experience in customer service in hospitality or tourism field and excellent communication skills

CONCIERGE

• Provide personalized recommendations and assistance with bookings tours and reservations.

• Experience as a concierge and customer service in hospitality or tourism

• Strong sales and problem-solving abilities

HUMAN RESOURCES AND CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT

• Assist HR manager with all needs

• Will assist for customer inquiries, phone calls, bookings, email reservations and check-in procedures

• Excellent communication skills and exceptional customer service

SOLANA RESTAURANT

Ocean Club West

54 Bonaventure Crescent, Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands (649)333-3343 or (649)332-2000

Please send your CV to info@solana.tc

COOKS

DUTIES

• Set up and meticulously stock stations with all necessary supplies for efficient service.

• Skillfully prepare a variety of menu items, including chopping vegetables, butchering meat, and crafting sauces.

• Collaborate with the kitchen team to cook menu items to perfection.

• Responsively answer, report, and follow instructions from executive or sous chefs.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the station, ensuring proper stock inventory.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Demonstrated cooking experience, including proficiency as a line chef, restaurant cook, or prep cook.

• Exceptional understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures.

• Ability to execute assigned tasks with precision and speed.

• Familiarity with industry-leading practices and standards.

Salary: $10 to $12 per hour + Service Charge

PREP COOK

DUTIES

• Assist with the preparation of ingredients and mise en place.

• Follow recipes and portion control guidelines.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen.

• Support kitchen staff during service as needed.

• Adhere to food safety standards and regulations.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience as a prep cook or kitchen assistant preferred.

• Basic knowledge of food handling and preparation techniques.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Team player with a positive attitude.

Salary: $8 to $10 per hour + Service Charge

STEWARD DUTIES

• Clean and sanitize dishes, utensils, and equipment.

• Assist with food preparation and plating as needed.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen and dining areas.

• Dispose of trash in accordance with sanitation standards.

• Follow safety protocols and regulations at all times.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Prior experience as a steward or dishwasher preferred.

• Knowledge of proper sanitation and hygiene practices.

• Ability to work efficiently in a team environment.

• Physical stamina to stand and lift heavy objects.

Salary: $8 to $10 per hour + Service Charge

BARTENDER DUTIES

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to recipes and customer preferences.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar area.

• Interact with customers, take orders, and provide recommendations.

• Monitor inventory and replenish supplies as needed.

• Adhere to all safety and sanitation policies.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as a bartender.

• Extensive knowledge of drink recipes and mixology techniques.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Salary: $8 to $10 per hour + Tips and Service Charge

BARBACK DUTIES

• Assist bartenders with stocking and replenishing supplies.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar area.

• Collect empty glasses and dishes from tables and bars.

• Assist in preparing garnishes and ingredients.

• Provide support to bartending staff as needed.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience in a barback or similar role preferred.

• Ability to lift heavy objects and stand for extended periods.

• Strong multitasking and organizational skills.

• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Salary: $8 to $10 per hour + Service Charge

POOL AND BEACH RUNNER DUTIES

• Deliver food and beverages to guests at poolside or beach areas.

• Take orders and provide recommendations to enhance guest experience.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of pool and beach areas.

• Communicate effectively with kitchen and waitstaff.

• Ensure guest satisfaction by providing prompt and friendly service.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience in a similar role preferred.

• Strong customer service skills.

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Salary: $8 to $10 per hour + Service Charge

HOSTESS

DUTIES

• Greet guests and manage reservations.

• Seat guests according to seating chart and preferences.

• Provide menus and inform guests of daily specials.

• Manage waitlist during peak hours.

• Coordinate with servers and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience as a host/hostess preferred.

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

• Ability to remain calm under pressure.

• Friendly and outgoing personality.

Salary: $8 to $12 per hour + Service Charge

BUSSER/RUNNER

DUTIES

• Ensure tables are promptly cleared and reset for incoming guests.

• Assist servers in delivering food and beverages to tables.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of dining areas.

• Communicate effectively with kitchen and waitstaff to ensure smooth service.

• Provide excellent customer service to enhance dining experience.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Prior experience in a similar role preferred.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• Attention to detail and cleanliness.

Salary: $8 to $10 per hour + Service Charge

Must work nights, holidays, split shift, 6 days per week.

Good experience in fine dining. Good knowledge of general cooking, sautéed, pasta grill station, Meat-seafood butchery. Good knowledge of Italian and Mediterranean Cuisine.

Must Speak English.

Hourly

• Qualifications/Job Description:

• Minimum 2 year degree and specialized certification on Hospitality/Property Management

• 5+ years Hotel/Property Management and PMS Software experience

• Bookkeeping, accounting and revenue management experience.

• Assist managing 20+ units, reservations and various contractors.

• Must be willing to be on call 24 hours a day!

• Must have own vehicle.

INTERESTED PARTIES, PLEASE CALL OR WHATSAPP MANAGEMENT AT 649-341-4317

CONTACT: 242-1358

PROVO BEVERAGES

• Responsible for lab ware, cleaning scientific glassware after laboratory use.

• Sterilize lab ware (if is necessary).

• Cleaning and maintaining lab equipment

• Prepare laboratory equipment, supplies, and chemical reagents or solutions as needed.

• Maintains laboratory equipment and facility, including fulfilling routine daily tasks

• Follows established procedures as described by Standard Operating Procedures, work instructions, and other operating procedures to make quality measurements.

• Inputs data and keeps records updated.

• Take samples aseptically and deliver properly

• Daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance of the laboratory

• Restocking workstation lab supplies

• Recording temperatures

• Monthly inventory

• Identifies and contributes to opportunities for continuous improvement.

WATER PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR

THIS POSITION WILL ACT AS A TEAM LEADER AND SUPERVISOR IN THE WATER DEPARTMENT.

• To operate, troubleshoot, enact mirror repairs, and ensure satisfactory operation of all the existing machines and ancillary equipment in the water plant.

• Ensure the daily, weekly, monthly, and other scheduled maintenance are being enforced and done correctly.

• Provide input on of production personnel performance and production efficiencies recommendations.

• Ensuring production staff adhere to good manufacturing procedures/policies and safety standards.

• Perform quality control on finished products with the assistance of the Quality Control Department. Record keeping and recording of same.

• Prepare reports and maintain accurate records of service and preventive maintenance done on each machine or equipment.

• Assist on the proper inventory of spare parts and coordinate with the Department Manager for any items/parts that need purchasing.

• When necessary, perform the role of machine operation &/or production staff.

• With the assistance of the Department Manager (and in their absence), supervise the production team ensuring efficiencies and adherence company policy.

• With the assistance of the Department Manager (and in their absence) planning the daily and weekly production schedule.

Salary based on experience.

SERVER/TOUR GUIDE

• Booking, scheduling & Providing Brewery guided tours

• Serving & preparing drinks to Tap Room customers

• Ensuring retail merchandise is appropriately displayed

• Physical counts of retail store’s inventory

• Selling of merchandise in Tap Room

• Ensuring neatness and cleanliness of the Tap Room and other tour areas

• Cashiering duties & participation in promotional events and activities

• Other related duties as assigned $8.50 per hour

JOB SUMMARY:

To maintain, develop and enforce the TCI airworthiness regulatory system by ensuring conformance with local and international airworthiness regulations. The primary responsibilities of the AID should cover all matters concerning the continuing airworthiness of aircraft and should cover, at a minimum:

a) continuing airworthiness of aircraft and parts thereof.

b) approval of maintenance organizations.

c) maintenance certification of air operators.

d) where no separate licensing division exists, the validating of aircraft maintenance personnel licences.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Testing air carrier staff and crew for granting of licenses

• Carrying out regular inspections and preparing reports

• Assisting in aircraft accidents/incidents investigation

• Reviewing the training of air carrier staff and crew

• Ensuring that air carriers meet local and international flight operations standards

• Investigation of aircraft accidents/incidents (as it relates to airworthiness standards) and formulation of prevention policy.

• Reviewing and approval of applications for modifications of Turks and Caicos Islands registered aircraft, when those tasks are associated with continuing airworthiness.

• Review, process and record applications for registration of aircraft, registering and de-registering aircraft as appropriate, and issuing certificates of registration.

• Grant or validate aircraft noise certification.

• Evaluate and issue export certificates of airworthiness for aircraft, engine and/or propellers as applicable.

• Supervising all civilian aircraft maintenance operators and promotion of airworthiness of aircraft. Issuing advisory material to the aviation industry concerning airworthiness practices and procedures, where such advice may make a significant contribution to aviation safety.

• Researching and reviewing airworthiness information to ensure international standards of airworthiness are met by aircraft operators within Turks and Caicos Islands.

• Inspecting (annually) all aircraft registered in Turks and Caicos Islands and reviewing licences

• Authority to inspect any aircraft operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands and to conduct random ramp checks.

• Surveying new aircraft for initial airworthiness certification and renewal of certificate of airworthiness and processing of documents.

• Reviewing for approval air carriers and maintenance organization aircraft maintenance programs. Evaluate and approve aircraft condition monitoring aircraft reliability, and aircraft structural integrity programmes, as appropriate.

• Evaluate and approve or accept air operators’ MCMs, MOE and maintenance organization procedures manuals.

• Reviewing aircraft Minimum Equipment List (MEL) in conjunction with Flight Operations Inspector

• Provide advice and recommendations in other areas of CAA responsibility, such as the identification and handling of dangerous goods, and on other technical matters relating to airworthiness as may be required.

• Overseeing upkeep of Civil Aviation library (along with flight operations inspector)

• Liaising and working with international airworthiness and flight operations agencies and auditing teams.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES AND EXPERIENCE:

• A High School Graduate with at least 5 CXC/GCE passes including Mathematics and English.

• A Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Aviation Authority (TCICAA) Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s licence, category A and C, Federal Aviation Administration A & P (FAA)

• At least 7 years’ experience as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, experience should include:

o Knowledge of Civil Aviation and Civil Aviation Law o 3 years in Airworthiness Managerial position

o Working knowledge of flight operations procedures

o Knowledge of auditing and administrative experience

o A reasonable level of tact, firmness, impartiality and integrity

o The personality to win the professional respect and confidence of the operations.

• UK CAA surveyor certificate (SIT - Surveyor Initial Training)

• Knowledge of Auditing and administration

• Working knowledge of flight operations procedures

• Good computer skills

PERSONAL QUALITIES:

• Willingness to take personal responsibility

• Ability to Reason

• Positive attitude

• Professionalism, Tactfulness, firmness and impartiality

• The personality to win the professional respect and confidence of others OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Fluent in English

• Willingness to travel locally and internationally SALARY RANGE: $65,820.00 to $72,420.00 per annum

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: April 19th, 2024

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to Office Administrator,

Sports International

Impaire Et Passe survives stewards inquiry on day one of Grand National meeting

Paul Townend and Impaire Et Passe survived a stewards inquiry to take victory in the Aintree Hurdle on the opening day of the Liverpool track’s Grand National meeting.

The evens favourite beat Rachael Blackmore’s mount Bob Olinger and Langer Dan, ridden by Harry Skelton, in a photo finish.

The stewards inquiry was called after interference in the latter stages.

But after deliberations, the result remained unchanged.

Impaire Et Passe appeared to cross Langer Dan’s path after the last. Bob Olinger also seemed to drift inwards on the run to the line, leaving Langer Dan sandwiched between them.

Townend’s horse, trained by Willie Mullins, won it

“It was a long wait but I was pretty confident we’d keep it once I’d seen the overhead angle - I thought that gave us a great chance,” said Mullins.

“When Paul and Harry crossed after the last hurdle, there was never any interference and I thought it would be hard to change it.

“On balance it was a hard result to change as Paul thought he was idling in front, which is a legitimate

excuse.”

Earlier, the favourite Gerri Colombe held off the challenge of Ahoy Senor to win the William Hill Bowl.

The 9-4 chance, ridden by Jack Kennedy, finished second in last month’s Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The Gordon Elliotttrained horse jumped into contention at the second last and took the last alongside Ahoy Senor.

He then showed his strength on the run-in to win by half a length.

“Jack said the horse was never happy the whole way, but it shows the guts he has,” Elliott told ITV Racing.

“He was probably at the front too soon but he did what he had to do and we are lucky to have him.

“It is all systems go for the Gold Cup next year.”

Earlier, there was relief for trainer Nicky Henderson after unbeaten juvenile Sir Gino won the Juvenile Hurdle.

Christine Mboma won world under-20 200m gold in 2021

Mboma to make

competitive return after

20 months

out

levels permitted for DSD athletes.

The 20-year-old has not competed since she won 200m bronze at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in August 2022.

But organisers say Mboma, who said last year she was taking testosteronelowering medication, will race over 100m at the Kip Keino Classic in Kenya on 20 April.

Mboma’s coach Henk Botha has said he was “shocked” by the rule changes for female athletes with high testosterone which prevented her from competing in Budapest last year.

DSD is a group of rare conditions, external whereby a person’s hormones, genes and/or reproductive organs may be a mix of male and female characteristics. Some of those affected prefer the term “intersex”.

Mboma clocked 21.81 seconds at Tokyo 2020 to take women’s 200m silver three years ago behind Jamaica’s Elaine ThompsonHerah. (BBC)

• Adventure Booking Assistance

• Customer Communication

• Pre-Trip Support

• Issue Resolution

• Customer Feedback and Improvement

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational abilities.

• Computer Literate Salary will be based on experience

There was little to separate the leading trio at the end of the Aintree Hurdle

by a nose from Bob Olinger with Langer Dan a further short head back in third.

Sports International

Celtics become first team in NBA history to shoot zero free throws in a game

There are certain statistics that you just never expect to see in sports, and the Boston Celtics recorded perhaps one of the most unlikely milestones of all time.

During the team’s 104-91 defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday, the Celtics became the first team in NBA history to shoot zero free throws in a game.

To make matters even more bizarre, the Bucks only shot two, meaning the two teams set a new record for the fewest total free throws shot during an NBA game.

The Bucks also committed just four fouls all game, the fewest in NBA history.

“Man, Adam Silver’s the happiest,” Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said, referring to the NBA commissioner, per ESPN. “One hour 57 [minutes] game time. My goodness, you can go to a game and still have dinner. Unbelievable.

“I thought it was a physical game and then they handed me the stat sheet, and I told them: ‘No, I need the full game.’

“I thought it was the halftime stats. I didn’t look at the minutes and then I said: ‘Wow, two free throws for a basketball game. That’s crazy.’”

Ahead of the 2021-22 season, the NBA made a rule change that stated referees should not award fouls drawn by players using “overt, abrupt or abnormal non-basketball moves.”

The change was made due to players such as James Harden, Trae Young and Luka Doncic consistently being able to draw fouls with unusual shooting motions that, at the time, were within the rules.

The previous record low for free throws shot by a team during a game was one, which was held jointly by the Memphis Grizzlies and Atlanta Hawks, while the lowest combined total was 11 set by Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic in 2019, per ESPN.

“It was weird, but it seems to be the trend,” Bucks guard Damian Lillard said. “Fouls are not a part of the game no more.

“It’s like, I’ve had times where I thought I was getting fouled and there’s been other times where I was surprised a foul didn’t get called on me, where I might bump somebody or get a piece of somebody’s arm and they don’t call it, and I’m like: ‘Man, they’re really just letting us play.’

“And then, like the other night, I fouled out with like two minutes left in the game. I fouled out twice in our last five games or something like that. I hadn’t fouled out in I don’t know how long before this. You’ve just got to roll with however the game is going. Tonight, I hardly remember any whistles.”

Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics earned an ignominious record in their loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday

Science & Technology

Accelerated aging linked to cancer risk in younger adults, research shows

Researchers looking for clues about why some types of cancer are on the rise in younger adults say they’ve found an interesting lead: a connection to accelerated biological aging.

Aging is the major risk for many types of cancer, meaning the older you get, the more likely you are to be diagnosed. And increasingly, experts recognize that age is more than just the number of candles on a birthday cake. It’s also the wear and tear on the body, caused by lifestyle, stress and genetics, which is sometimes referred to as a person’s biological age.

“We all know cancer is an aging disease. However, it is really coming to a younger population. So whether we can use the welldeveloped concept of biological aging to apply that to the younger generation is a really untouched area,” said Dr. Yin Cao, an associate professor of surgery at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and senior author of the new research, which was presented Sunday at the American Association of Cancer Research’s annual conference in San Diego.

FACTORS OF BIOLOGICAL AGING

Cao and her team looked at the medical records of 148,724 people ages 37 to 54 who are participants in a large data registry called the UK Biobank.

THEY HOMED IN ON NINE BLOOD-BASED MARKERS

Cancer is “an aging disease” that is “really coming to a younger population,” one of the study authors says

THAT HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO CORRELATE WITH BIOLOGICAL AGE:

albumin: a protein made by the liver that declines with age creatinine: a waste product in blood produced by protein digestion and the breakdown of muscle tissue; a measure of kidney function. Lower levels correlate with better longevity. glucose: With age, blood sugar stays higher for longer after meals.

c-reactive protein: made by the liver in response to inflammation; relatively higher levels correspond to faster aging lymphocyte percent: The concentration of these white blood cells related to immune function tends to decrease with

age.

· mean cell volume: a measure of the average size of red blood cells, which increases with age red cell distribution width: the difference between the size of a person’s smallest and largest red blood cells, which tends to increase with age alkaline phosphatase: an enzyme produced mainly by the liver and bones that tends to increase with age white blood cell counts: Numbers of white cells in the high end of the normal range in the blood may correspond with greater aging. These nine values were then plugged into an algorithm called PhenoAge that was used to calculate each person’s biological

age. The researchers determined accelerated aging by comparing people’s biological ages with their chronological ages.

They then checked cancer registries to see how many in the group had been diagnosed with early cancers, which the researchers defined as cancers appearing before age 55. There were nearly such 3,200 cancers diagnosed.

The researchers found that people born in 1965 or later were 17% more likely to show accelerated aging than those born from 1950 through 1954.

WHAT FASTER AGING COULD TELL US ABOUT CANCER RISK

After adjusting the data for factors they thought might bias their results, the researchers found that accelerated aging was associated with increased risk for cancer. The strongest associations were seen with lung, stomach and intestinal, and uterine cancers.

Compared with people who had the smallest amount of faster aging in the biobank sample, those who scored highest had twice the risk of early-onset lung cancer, more than 60% higher risk of a gastrointestinal tumor and more than 80% higher risk of uterine cancer.

The study wasn’t designed to answer questions about why these cancer types seemed to have the strongest ties to accelerated aging, but Ruiyi Tian, the graduate student who led the research, has

some theories.

Tian said it’s possible that lungs are more vulnerable to aging than other types of tissues because the lung has a limited ability to regenerate. Stomach and intestinal cancers, she says, have been linked to inflammation, which increases with aging.

Cao said the strength of the research is that the researchers saw these signals in such a large number of people, but she acknowledges that the study has limitations, too.

For example, people in the study weren’t followed over time. The blood test results were from a single test, so they gave only a snapshot of risk, which may change. Ideally, she said, researchers would be able to follow the same group for years, taking blood samples along the way to get a more accurate trajectory of their risk.

“The ideal scenario is that we would have multiple blood collections throughout the life course, which is not feasible even in biobanks like UK Biobank,” Cao said.

She said the association should also be tested in more diverse populations, since the effects of social factors tied to racial discrimination need to be better illuminated, as well.

Dr. Anne Blaes, who studies the impact of biological aging in cancer survivors at the University of Minnesota, said the study results are exciting because they could point to a better way to find people

STD rates skyrocket among Americans 55 and older: CDC

Sexually transmitted disease rates have risen sharply in a certain age group – and which group it is may surprise you.

The CDC’s latest statistics on STDs in the US show that chlamydia, Hepatitis C, and syphilis were among the diseases that have been infecting Americans aged 55 and older at an alarming rate. The statistics, which are as recent as 2022, show how STD rates have skyrocketed since 2000.

In 2022, there were 5,160 reported cases of primary and secondary syphilis in adults aged 55 and older – a sharp increase from 3,092 in 2020. In 2012, there were only 712 cases.

Chlamydia cases among

Americans aged 55 and older in 2022 were reported to be 19,766 in total – thousands more than the 13,774 cases in 2020.

Hepatitis C outbreaks among people aged 55 and older have also skyrocketed since 2012. There were only 125 cases in 2012, while 1,041 cases were reported in 2022 – only a slight decrease from 1,092 in 2021.

Gonorrhea cases among the age group were as high as 18,804 in 2022 – in 2012, there were only 3,874 cases.

According to charts published on the CDC’s website, the state with the highest 2021 HIV diagnoses among adults 55 and older is Florida, with 585 cases. California

syphilis were among the diseases that have been infecting Americans aged 55 and older at an alarming rate

followed with 453 cases, and then Texas ranked third with 358. New York, Georgia, New Jersey and Illinois were also ranked among the highest HIV diagnoses in 2021 for the same age group. Alaska, Montana, South Dakota, North Dakota and Vermont had a combined total of 12 cases among the 55+ crowd, and Wyoming had zero.

In an interview with NBC News, Texas A&M professor Matthew Lee Smith claimed that STD cases in elderly people may be influenced by how they were taught about sex education in school.

“Back in the ‘30s, the ‘40s, the ‘50s, traditional school wasn’t really doing sexual education very formally,” he explained. (Foxnews)

The CDC’s latest statistics on STDs in the US show that chlamydia, Hepatitis C, and

The scientists learning to speak whale

In a world-first, scientists had a “conversation” with a whale. Now, researchers are trying to find out what they are actually saying.

A growling “throp” noise emanates from the research vessel’s underwater speaker. A humpback breaks away from its group and approaches. The mammal circles the boat. It surfaces and then dives again, tail slipping noiselessly into the water, and echoes the call back.

Researchers who “conversed” with a humpback whale say their encounter could be the first step towards communication with nonhuman intelligence. It was in 2021, off the coast of south-east Alaska, that the team of six scientists played a recording of a humpback greeting call using an underwater speaker. They were stunned when one humpback whale they had named Twain responded in a conversational manner.

“It’s like experiencing another world. You hear them come up to the surface. Then there’s this big breath, you can see it, and they’re all together as a group. It’s just incredible,” says Josie Hubbard, an animal behaviourist currently studying for her PhD at the University of California, Davis.

Hubbard was on the research vessel which was floating, all engines silenced, in Frederick Sound, Alaska, when she encountered humpback whales for the first time. “As per regulations, you have to stop a couple of hundred metres away [from the whales] and turn your engine off,” says Hubbard. Rarely, she says, the whales may approach. In this instance, 38-year-old Twain

A humpback whale and her calf

did move towards the boat, and proceeded to circle the vessel for 20 minutes.

Hubbard is part of a Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (Seti) research team, hoping to understand the communicative complexity and intelligence of humpback whales. Up on the top deck, Hubbard was oblivious to the work of the acousticians going on beneath the surface. Below deck, Brenda McCowan was broadcasting a recorded humpback contact call – a “whup” or “throp” – through an underwater speaker. When Twain finally moved away, Hubbard ran downstairs to find a hubbub of excitement. Twain had “spoken” back, engaging in a “conversation” that lasted a full 20 minutes.

Long, rhythmic and constantly evolving, whales’ haunting songs

can flow across entire ocean basins. They chatter with whistles and pulses, or use echolocation to paint pictures of their underwater world.

Whales have enchanted humans for centuries. In fact, whales display a long list of behaviours similar to humans. They cooperate with one another, as well as other species. They teach each other useful skills, look after each other’s young, and play.

However, unlike humans, the dominant sense in whales is not sight, but hearing. Sink 200m (660ft) below the ocean surface, and you’ll travel beyond the reach of light. Sound, on the other hand, can move farther and faster in water than it does in the air.

Baleen whales, including humpbacks, right whales and blue whales, have evolved a unique

Accelerated aging linked to cancer risk in younger adults...

who are at higher risk of getting cancer when they’re young. Right now, young adults who don’t have a family history or other risk factor aren’t regularly screened for most kind of cancer.

“We’re seeing more and more cancers, especially GI cancers and breast cancers, in younger individuals. And if we had a way of identifying who’s at higher risk for those, then really, you can imagine we’d be recommending screening at a different time,” said Blaes, a professor and director of

the Division of Hematology and Oncology at UM medical school. She was not involved in the new research.

Blaes said that if you can find people who are at higher risk because their cells are aging faster, you can target lifestyle interventions too: things like nutrition, exercise and sleep.

“There are medications that also look like they can slow down accelerated aging,” said Blaes, who is testing two of them in cancer survivors.

Cancer survivors often show greater biological aging, perhaps because of the after effects of

therapies like chemotherapy and radiation.

The medications belong to a class called senolytics, drugs thought to target and get rid of damaged and aging cells.

Right now, it’s not clear who might benefit from these drugs, but assessments of accelerated aging like PhenoAge could one day help point doctors to the people who most need them.

“It’s super interesting. It’s not quite prime time, where we would go out and prescribe those medications for people, but this is really, really important work,” Blaes said. (CNN)

larynx that allows them to produce super low-frequency sounds which can travel huge distances. Blue whales, for instance, emit frequencies as low as 12.5 Hz, classed as infrasound and below the threshold of human hearing. Toothed whales, meanwhile, which include sperm whales, dolphins, porpoises and orcas, are the among loudest animals on Earth and use ultra-fast clicks for echolocation, to “see” their world, as well as soft burst pulses and whistles to communicate.

Cetaceans have evolved over 50 million years to produce and hear a variety of complex sounds. They rely on noise to communicate with each other, to navigate, find mates and food, defend their territories and resources, and avoid predators. Their young babble much like human infants, some are believed to have names, and groups from different parts of the ocean have regional dialects. Whales have been heard mimicking the dialects of foreign groups – and some are even thought to have given human language a shot.

The songs of the humpback whale are thought to be among the most complex in the animal kingdom. The first recording of humpback whale song was made in 1952 by US Navy engineer Frank Watlington. Almost 20 years later, marine biologist Roger Payne noticed these calls were organised in repeating patterns. This transformed our understanding of whale vocalisations and sparked an interest that would lead to decades of research.

Fast forward to today, and the Seti research team hopes deciphering whale communication could help us to understand aliens, should we encounter any. The group hypothesises that whale sounds contain complex, intelligent

messages akin to languages used by humans or potentially extraterrestrials. However, says McCowan, our understanding of whale communication is still very much in its infancy.

On that particular day off the coast of Alaska, McCowan had already broadcast a host of different sounds, with no response. “But this one call was recorded the day before,” she says, “and it was from this population of whales. After playing the contact call three times, we got this huge response. Then, to keep the animal engaged, I started trying to match the latency of her calls to our calls. So, if she waited 10 seconds, I waited 10 seconds. We ended up matching each other. We did this 36 times over a 20-minute period.”

Throughout the exchange, Twain consistently matched the interval variations between each playback call. This is thought to be the first intentional human-whale interaction in humpback whale “language”. And, as the recording was of Twain’s family group, adds Hubbard, this could indicate some form of recognition, possibly even self-recognition.

However, studying whales is not without its challenges. McCowan emphasises Twain chose to approach the boat and was free to leave whenever she wanted – but therein lies the problem. Whales can usually be found wherever the fish are, adds Hubbard. “But we don’t know where the fish are. So, you have to search to find them in order to study them.” And, to get a complete picture, researchers need to replicate the data with multiple unique pods.

Next, the team plan to vary the calls they broadcast. “We’re still at a very early stage,” says McCowan. “A big challenge for us is classifying those signals and determining their context, so we can ascertain meaning. I think AI will help us do that.”

More than 5,000 miles (8,000km) away, a group of artificial intelligence and natural language processing experts, cryptographers, linguists, marine biologists, robotic experts and underwater acousticians are also hoping to use AI – this time to decipher sperm whale conversation.

Launched in 2020, Ceti (Cetacean Translation Initiative), led by marine biologist David Gruber, has been continuously recording a group of whales off the coast of Dominica, an island in the Caribbean, using microphones on buoys, robotic fish and tags fitted to the whales’ backs.

Science & Technology

Extreme temperatures are tied to more than half a million stroke deaths a year

In 2019 alone, more than half a million people died due to a stroke linked to high and low temperatures, a new study found. With the world getting warmer due to human-made climate change, that number is expected to rise.

The study, published Wednesday in the medical journal Neurology, found that since 1990, the number of strokes attributable to high and low temperatures have been increasing all around the globe. Men had more strokes related to extreme temperatures than women, but it affected people across all age groups.

For this study, researchers looked at temperatures and strokes in 204 countries and territories. Researchers from Xiangya Hospital Central South University in China created a model using global data on disease, deaths and disability and climate data that captures temperatures, cloud cover and weather variables.

The study authors noted that the number of people having strokes has risen as the population ages and grows, but this doesn’t account for everything. “Nonoptimal temperatures” made a difference: The number of people who had a stroke due to hot and cold temperatures grew and was significantly larger in 2019 than in 1990.

In 2019, it was low temperatures that led to the higher number of strokes. While that may sound counterintuitive for global warming, cold temperatures also come along with climate change. Warmer temperatures on land interfere with the polar vortex — the dense cold air mass around the poles — and when it is weakened, it can lead to cooler temperatures.

Right now, stroke deaths connected to extreme temperatures are disproportionately concentrated in parts of the world with with a higher levels of people living in poverty and where health care systems are fragile, like in Africa. The study said the rapid increase in stroke burden due to high temperature in Central Asia “also requires special attention.”

As the planet gets warmer, the study said, the burden of strokes due to high temperature “has increased rapidly” and that number will grow “sharply” in the future.

Higher temperatures are already here. Last year was the warmest since scientists started recording global temperatures in 1850 and temperatures are expected to break more records in the near future. This March was the hottest one on record.

Dr. Mary Rice, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School who did not work

Uranus and Neptune

Astronomers have long believed that the ice giants Uranus and Neptune are rich in frozen water. However, a new study suggests they may also have tons of methane ice.

The findings could help solve a puzzle about how these icy worlds formed.

Much about Uranus and Neptune remains unknown. These ice giant worlds have had just a single spacecraft visitor, Voyager 2, which flew past them in the 1980s. As a result, scientists have only a hazy idea of the ice giants’ compositions — for example, that they contain significant amounts of oxygen, carbon and hydrogen.

To learn more about what Uranus and Neptune are made of,

A stroke is the third leading cause of disability worldwide, and one of the leading causes of death

on the new study, said its findings are significant.

“I really think that group did a very nice job of taking a global approach looking at historic data and to draw attention to a health issue that I think it’s not really getting a lot of attention,” said Rice, a pulmonologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. “The total burden of people who died from strokes from temperature is actually a very large number.”

Rice recently published a study in Frontiers in Science that found climate change is also driving an increasing number of immune-mediated diseases such as allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases and cancers. Rice’s study suggests that multilevel mitigation actions are urgently needed to

reduce emissions and to improve air quality while addressing the climate crisis.

Without immediate global action, the world is going to see a much greater burden of disease, she said.

‘IT’S HAPPENING ACROSS THE BOARD’

Stroke is already a significant health problem. It is the third leading cause of disability worldwide, and one of the leading causes of death, earlier studies showed.

The new study wasn’t designed to show why extreme temperatures that come with the climate crisis seem to be causing so many strokes. Other research has shown that when temperatures are excessively hot, it’s difficult for the body to regulate and cool itself by

sweating. This can lead to what doctors call a hypercoagulable state of the blood, when the blood clots easier and increases the risk of stroke. People may also become dehydrated, which can force the heart to work too hard, also increasing a person’s chance of having a stroke or heart attack.

Extreme cold temperatures also can lead someone to have a stroke. When the body is exposed to cold, it stimulates the skin’s cold receptors which triggers what’s known as the sympathetic nervous system, the network of nerves that control the body’s fight or flight response. That can cause vasoconstriction, the constriction of blood vessels in the skin, arms, and legs, leading blood pressure to spike and potentially leading to a stroke.

aren’t made of what we thought, new study hints

Uranus glows within its shell of bright rings in this James Webb Space Telescope image

astronomers have devised models that match the physical properties that Voyager 2 and Earth-based telescopes have measured. Many models assume the planets have a thin hydrogen and helium

envelope; an underlying layer of compressed, superionic water and ammonia; and a central rocky core.

(The water is what gives them their “ice giant” tag.) Some estimates suggest Uranus and Neptune

may each have 50,000 times the quantity of water in Earth’s oceans.

But the authors of the new study say these models ignore the way the ice giants formed. As Uranus and Neptune coalesced from the dust cloud surrounding the young sun, they gobbled up, or accreted, objects called planetesimals. The team says these planetesimals resemble present-day comets such as 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, which originate in the Kuiper Belt, the doughnut-shaped region of icy bodies beyond the orbit of Neptune.

Unlike the supposedly waterrich ice giants, though, a large fraction of these planetesimal-like objects are rich in carbon. So “how is it possible to form an icy giant

from ice-poor building blocks?” said Uri Malamud, the study’s lead author and a planetary scientist at Technion – Israel Institute of Technology.

To resolve this apparent paradox, Malamud and his co-authors built hundreds of thousands of models of Uranus’ and Neptune’s interiors. The algorithm they used “starts matching a suitable composition for the surface of the planet, and it gradually works its way deeper into the central point of the planet.” They considered several chemicals, including iron, water and methane, the main component of natural gas. Then, they tried to determine which model most resembled the actual ice giants in traits such as radius and mass.

Sports International

OJ Simpson, NFL star acquitted

in ‘trial

of the

World Athletics introduces $50,000 prize money for Paris 2024 Olympic gold medallists

World Athletics (WA) will become the first international sports governing body to award prize money to Olympic gold medallists starting at the Paris 2024 Games, the federation said in a statement on Monday.

A prize pot of $2.4 million has been set aside by WA from the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) revenue share allocation it receives every four years to reward athletes.

Athletes who win gold in each of the 48 track and field events in Paris will receive $50,000. Relay teams will receive the same amount to share amongst the athletes.

century’,

dies aged 76

OJ Simpson, the former American football star turned actor who was controversially cleared of double murder, has died aged 76.

San Francisco-born Orenthal James Simpson rose to fame in college before playing in the NFL.

In 1995, he was acquitted of the murder of his former wife Nicole Brown and her friend in a trial that gripped America.

In 2008, he was sentenced to 33 years’ imprisonment on unrelated charges of armed robbery. He was released in 2017.

Simpson died of cancer on Wednesday “surrounded by his children and grandchildren”, a family statement read.

In 1994, Simpson was arrested as a suspect in the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman. The pair were found stabbed to death outside Ms Brown’s home in Los Angeles. Simpson became an immediate person of interest in the case.

On the day he was due to turn himself in, he fled in a white Ford Bronco with a former teammate, and led the police on a slow-speed chase through the Los Angeles area.

That chase engrossed audiences in the United States and abroad as it was broadcast live on “rolling” 24-hour news channels still in their relative infancy.

In the ensuing court case, dubbed the “trial of the century” by US media, prosecutors argued Simpson had killed Brown in a jealous fury. Evidence included blood, hair and fibre tests linking Simpson to the murders.

The defence argued Simpson was framed by police who were motivated by racism.

In one of the trial’s most memorable moments, prosecutors asked Simpson to put on a pair

of blood-stained gloves allegedly found at the scene of the murder, but Simpson struggled to fit his hands into them. It led to one of Simpson’s lawyers, Johnnie Cochrane, telling the jury in his closing arguments: “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.”

The jury ultimately sided with Simpson, who had declared he was “absolutely 100% not guilty”. The acquittal proved hugely controversial.

The families of Ms Smith and Mr Goldman did not give up - they pursued a civil case against Simpson in 1997 and a jury found Simpson liable for the two deaths. He was ordered to pay $33.5m (£25.8m) in damages to their families.

In 2006, Simpson sold a book manuscript, titled “If I Did It”, and a prospective TV interview, giving a “hypothetical” account of the murders he had always strenuously denied.

Public objections ended both projects, but Mr Goldman’s family secured the book rights, added material imputing guilt to Simpson and had it published.

Simpson’s final disgrace came in 2008, when he was convicted of armed robbery for breaking into a Las Vegas hotel room with four accomplices, holding two sports memorabilia dealers at gunpoint and stealing items related to his NFL career.

He was sentenced to 33 years in jail, but was granted parole after serving the minimum of nine years.

Before his legal problems, Simpson was well-liked, known as an athlete, actor and the face of several major companies.

He was a college football star at University of Southern California before signing with the Buffalo Bills in 1969, where he played until 1977.

“The introduction of prize money for Olympic gold medallists is a pivotal moment for World Athletics and the sport of athletics as a whole, underscoring our commitment to empowering the athletes and recognising the critical role they play in the success of any Olympic Games,” WA president Sebastian Coe said in a statement.

“While it is impossible to put a marketable value on winning an Olympic medal, or on the commitment and focus it takes to even represent your country at an Olympic Games, I think it is important we start somewhere and make sure some of the revenues generated by our athletes at the Olympic Games are directly returned to those who make the Games the global spectacle that it is,” Coe added.

A preview of the gold medal which will be given out to winners at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Traditionally, Olympic medal winners don’t receive prize money as the event originated as an amateur competition.

On Thursday, the IOC responded to WA’s prize money scheme, pointing to its own methods of funding athletes.

“The IOC redistributes 90 per cent of all its income, in particular to the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and International Federations (IFs),” it said in a statement sent to CNN.

“This means that, every day, the equivalent of USD 4.2 million goes to help athletes and sports organisations at all levels around the world. It is up to each IF and NOC to determine how to best

serve their athletes and the global development of their sport.”

WA says it is committed to extending the bonus initiative to Olympic silver and bronze medallists at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. The reward structure and format for those Games will be confirmed at a later stage.

Coe later told reporters that he disagreed that this financial incentive would promote cheating, instead stressing the importance of highlighting the abilities of the world’s best athletes.

“It reflects World Athletics’ view that the athletes – our athletes make up 20% in numbers at an Olympic Games – should be recognized,” he said.

Semi-automated offside technology approved by clubs for 2024-25 season

Premier League clubs have approved unanimously the use of semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) for the 2024-25 season.

The plan is to introduce the system after one of the international breaks in September or October, the Premier League said.

Fifa first used the technology at the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar.

It is anticipated SAOT could cut the length of a video assistant referee (VAR) check for offside by 31 seconds.

In a statement, the Premier League said the state-of-the-art technology “will provide quicker and consistent placement of the virtual offside line, based on optical player tracking”.

It also added SAOT “will produce high-quality broadcast graphics to ensure an enhanced instadium and broadcast experience for supporters”.

Semi-automated

offside technology was trialled at the Arab Cup and Club World Cup in 2021

One aim is to introduce the technology next season for FA Cup ties hosted by Premier League clubs, and for the semi-finals and final at Wembley Stadium.

Decisions as to whether a player in an offside position is interfering with play, or whether a player is onside where a defensive player has touched

the ball and the contact has been deemed deliberate, will still begin subjectively with the on-field referee. The system was also trialled at the 2021 Arab Cup and Club World Cup, where it was estimated to have reduced the time taken to make offside VAR decisions from 70 to 25 seconds.

OJ Simpson was a college football star at University of Southern California before signing with the Buffalo Bills in 1969, where he played until 1977

Sports International

Woods hurts ‘every day,’ but believes he can win one more Masters

These days, Tiger Woods merely being among the field at The Masters is a story in itself, but the five-time champion insists he’s not returning to Augusta National to make up the numbers – he’s playing to win.

The 48-year-old will tee up for the 26th time at the 88th edition of the prestigious tournament on Thursday, marking only his second competitive appearance of the season and his first major start since last year’s event in Georgia.

There, Woods withdrew during his third round after much limping, a painfully familiar sight in the 15time major champion’s sporadic tournament appearances since suffering serious leg injuries in a 2021 car crash.

Doubts swirled as to whether he had played his final Masters –even Woods suggested it before the tournament began – but one year on, he is back and eyeing up Jack Nicklaus’ all-time record of six green jackets.

“If everything comes together, I think I can get one more. Do I need to describe that any more than that,

or are we good?” Woods, smiling, told reporters Tuesday.

“I still think that I can [win],” he added. “I haven’t got to that point where I don’t think I can’t.”

To say it would be a shock victory would be something of an understatement. Despite Woods’ strong claim to being the greatest to ever swing a club, his recent injuries see the world No. 959 arrive in Augusta as a rank outsider in a star-studded 89-player

His bookmaker’s odds dwarf those of world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, a favourite for many given his scintillating form, defending champion Jon Rahm, grand slam chasing Rory McIlroy and a host of other stars who have accumulated a flurry of titles since Woods last won in October 2019. Six months earlier, he had ended an 11-year-wait for his 15th major title at Augusta National.

Earlier this week, one longtime

Mbappé and PSG suffer dent to Champions League dream after defeat to Barcelona

Barcelona secured a 3-2 comeback win away against Paris SaintGermain in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal tie on Wednesday, serving a blow to the Parisians’ hopes of winning their first title.

The Spanish side, looking to flex its muscles in Europe once again, had taken the lead through Raphinha but found itself 2-1 down after the break after two quick goals from the host.

Facing defeat, Raphinha’s smartly taken second goal and Andreas Christensen’s header gave Barcelona the edge going into the second leg on April 16.

“We should be proud to say that Barça is alive,” Barcelona manager Xavi told reporters after the club’s first Champions League quarterfinal match since 2020.

“We understood how we had to work against one of the best teams in the world. It’s a small advantage but a victory that generates even more excitement in our city and with our fans.”

PSG, meanwhile, will be frustrated to throw away the lead in front of its home supporters. The host had come into the game on a 27-match unbeaten run but faced a resurgent Blaugrana side which managed to shackle

Raphinha (L) scores his and Barcelona’s second goal of the game

PSG superstar Kylian Mbappé. The French forward, who has six goals in the tournament this season, often looked frustrated at the Parc des Princes as he struggled to stamp his authority on the match.

However, despite going behind, PSG had been in the driver’s seat heading into the last 30 minutes after two goals in the space of three minutes.

Winger Ousmane Dembélé

equalized with a vicious strike in the 48th minute, before Vitinha

friend expressed apprehensions over the 82-time PGA Tour winner’s ability to navigate the fabled course’s hilly terrain – concerns Wood did little to quell Tuesday.

“I hurt every day … I ache every day,” he admitted, adding that he would be playing with painkillers.

“As far as my physicality on certain shots, every shot that’s not on a tee box is a challenge,” continued Woods, who underwent surgery to fuse his ankle following last year’s withdrawal.

“The ankle doesn’t hurt anymore … so that’s fine. It’s other parts of my body that now have to take the brunt of it … the back, the knee, other parts of the body … and just the endurance capability of walking a long time and being on my feet for a long time.”

Even if he doesn’t win come Sunday, Woods will make history simply by making it to the weekend.

Woods has made the cut in 23 consecutive starts at Augusta National, a record he shares with Fred Couples and Gary Player. Despite boasting a career measured almost exclusively in silverware, Woods would be proud to set a new benchmark for reliability.

“It’s consistency, it’s longevity, and it’s an understanding of how to play this golf course,” he said.

“That’s one of the reasons why you see players that are in their 50’s and 60’s make cuts here, or it’s players in their late 40s have runs at winning the event, just the understanding of how to play it.” (CNN)

Pioneering US-born sumo wrestling champion Akebono dies aged 54

Pioneering US-born former sumo wrestling champion Akebono has died, his family announced in a statement Thursday.

Widely considered to have blazed a trail for other foreign sumo wrestlers, the 54-year-old died of heart failure at a hospital in Japan.

kept his cool to hand his side the lead in the 51st minute.

But Barça hit back with a moment of real quality in the 62nd minute. Midfielder Pedri found Raphinha with a searching pass which the Brazilian tracked over his shoulder before he dispatched a brilliant first-time volley into the bottom corner of the net.

Just 15 minutes later, Barcelona retook the lead when Christensen headed in a corner after the nervouslooking Gianluigi Donnarumma failed to collect the cross.

Born Chad George Ha’aheo Rowan in Hawaii, Akebono became the first non-Japanese yokozuna – a sumo grand champion, the highest rank in the sport.

“It is with sadness that we announce Akebono Taro died of heart failure earlier this month while receiving care at a hospital in the Tokyo area,” his family said in a statement via the US military in Japan.

“He led the sumo boom as the 64th yokozuna, and achieved many accomplishments, including winning 11 championships.”

After becoming Yokozuna in

1993, Akebono became a Japanese citizen in 1996. He retired from sumo in 2001 before debuting as a pro wrestler under Japanese mixed martial arts promotion K-1 in 2003.

According to the Japan Sumo Association, Akebono was rushed to hospital after a wrestling match in 2017 and had been unwell ever since.

He is survived by his wife, daughter and two sons.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Japanese Olympic Committee recalled that Akebono “performed a dignified ringentering ceremony for the world” at the Nagano Winter Olympics in 1998.

US ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel added that Akebono “opened the door for other foreign wrestlers to find success in the sport” and “strengthened the cultural ties between the United States and his adopted homeland.”

Akebono competes in the 1993 San Jose Basho sumo wrestling tournament held June 4-5, 1993

One more Masters win would see Woods (pictured, 2000) tie Nicklaus (right) with six wins at Augusta National

field.

Sports International

County Championship: Cook takes match figures of 10-73 as Essex hammer Nottinghamshire

Essex underlined their 2024 credentials with a comprehensive 254-run win over Nottinghamshire in their County Championship opener at Trent Bridge.

Seamer Sam Cook spearheaded victory for the 2023 runners-up as Nottinghamshire were shot out for just 80, taking 6-14, backed by three wickets from Jamie Porter. But Essex now face an anxious wait to see if they will suffer a points deduction after opener Feroze Khushi’s bat failed an onfield dimensions check on Sunday during their second innings. They could potentially lose all 16 points for a win, if an offence is confirmed.

After an on-time resumption, Essex, 329-8 overnight, added 45 runs in just six overs before declaring, for the loss of only Shane Snater, caught off a top-edge at long leg for 47.

But Nottinghamshire collapsed to be bowled out in 34.3 overs, Joe Clarke top-scoring with 19.

Regardless of how many of their 20 points they ultimately keep, Essex will be grateful to the Nottinghamshire groundstaff for the chance to complete a full match with bad weather all around the country.

Derbyshire, whose ground is just 15 and a half miles away, did not manage a ball bowled in four days.

Essex’s declaration set Nottinghamshire 335 to win in 88 overs at 3.81 runs per over. But the hosts quickly found themselves 18-3 in the sixth over.

England opener Ben Duckett was bowled for five, beaten past the outside edge for the second time in the match as Porter angled one in that straightened.

World Athletics Relays: Sprinter CJ Ujah makes first British team since doping ban

Sprinter CJ Ujah has been included in Great Britain’s squad for the first time since serving his doping ban ahead of next month’s World Athletics Relays.

Ujah was banned for 22 months after testing positive for two prohibited substances at the Tokyo Olympics - but he was cleared of intentionally doping.

The 30-year-old’s doping violation saw the British men’s 4x100m quartet stripped of its Olympic silver medal.

The World Athletics Relays take place in the Bahamas on 4-5 May. The two-day event doubles as

Celtics, Jrue Holiday agree to 4-year, $135m contract extension: Sources

The Boston Celtics and guard Jrue Holiday have agreed on a four-year, $135 million contract extension, league sources confirmed Wednesday. ESPN first reported the news of the deal.

“Once I knew I was getting traded here, this is a part of what I wanted or what I envisioned,” Holiday said Thursday. “Being in a great organization, being here for a lengthy amount of time and being able to play along guys like (Jayson Tatum) and (Jaylen Brown) and really try to get more banners, get more rings here.”

Holiday was involved in the trade last offseason where the Portland Trail Blazers sent him to the Celtics in exchange for Robert Williams, Malcolm Brogdon and two first-round picks. Before that, the Blazers acquired Holiday in a three-team deal that sent Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks.

“I want to be here,” Holiday said. “I want to win multiple rings and I’ve heard people say that here plenty of times. So I’m ready for that.”

Holiday, 33, is a two-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA AllDefensive First Team. He won an NBA championship with the Bucks in 2021. During the 2023-24 season, Holiday is averaging 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR HOLIDAY AND THE CELTICS

Once again, the Celtics were able to get a major offseason acquisition

Holiday, 33, is a two-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA All-Defensive First Team

to take a pay cut on an extension. Kristaps Porzingis agreed to a two-year, $60 million extension after being traded to Boston in the summer, and now Holiday will take a sizable discount by turning down his $37.4 million player option to initiate an extension that will start at around $30 million per year. This gives Holiday security into his late 30s, while still having a player option after the next TV deal potentially causes a spike in salaries.

Holiday immediately replaced Marcus Smart as the team’s defensive leader upon his arrival in Boston, as his versatility and responsibility coordinating the

team’s coverages has helped Boston to the league’s second-best defensive rating. He has been one of the NBA’s best 3-point shooters this season and has been able to fill every offensive role, even in a reduced capacity compared to his days in Milwaukee.

With this extension set, the attention turns to Derrick White. Holiday’s backcourt partner did not agree to an extension before this season and has had a major breakout year. White enters the final year of his deal next season making just $18.8 million, so he is due a substantial raise when he can hit the market in 2025 at 30 years old. (The Athletic)

the Olympic qualifying event for the relay competitions at Paris 2024.

Ujah, whose ban ended on 5 June 2023, has been joined in the men’s 4x100m relay squad by Zharnel Hughes, Richard Kilty and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake.

In 2022, Kilty said he would never forgive Ujah, external for his “sloppy and reckless” behaviour that cost them the silver medal.

Reece Prescod, another member of that Tokyo squad, is also named despite quitting the relay team shortly before last year’s World Championships in

Budapest.

Darren Campbell, head of sprints, hurdles and relays for UK Athletics, said of the 4x100m relay squad: “They have had their fair share of challenges in recent years, but I have had my own discussions with each and every

member of the squad and know they are motivated, committed and focused on working together to reach Paris.”

Of the women’s 4x100m bronze medal-winning quartet in Tokyo, Asha Philip and Imani-Lara Lansiquot have been named but

Dina Asher-Smith and Daryll Neita are not in the squad.

At last summer’s World Championships in Budapest, GB won mixed 4x400m silver and bronze medals in the women’s 4x100m and 4x400m, and the men’s 4x400m.

The British men’s 4x100m team finished second to Italy by one-hundredth of a second at Tokyo 2020

Sam Cook claimed his fourth 10-wicket red-ball match haul

TCIFA celebrates long-serving employees

The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) recently celebrated three longserving employees, who have not only contributed their valuable skills and expertise but have also shown unwavering support and passion for their work.

According to a release from the FA, those honoured have made invaluable impacts on “shaping the culture and success of TCIFA”.

“Their resilience, hard work, and positive attitude serve as an inspiration to us all, reflecting the true spirit of teamwork and excellence that defines our organisation.”

CANDIA EWING

Taking on a new career adventure, ten years ago, Candia Ewing joined the FA with a background in pre-medicine and considerable knowledge in the medical and dental fields. Initially, she assumed the role of administrative assistant at the FA, before later taking on the responsibilities of Acting General Secretary during the crucial period of Sonia Fulford’s Presidency transition.

Over time, Candia went on to become the Marketing and Communications Coordinator. The release said that “Her creative flair and strategic approach brought a fresh perspective to the FA, enhancing its public image and engagement with stakeholders”.

Eventually, in addition to this role, she undertook the position of Office Manager. In her multifaceted capacity, Candia fulfils various duties, such as overseeing the organisation and execution of matches and events, managing travel arrangements for national teams, and handling a myriad of tasks essential to the smooth daily operations of the FA. Her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to the TCIFA and a true inspiration to aspiring professionals in the field of sport administration.

“In 2014, I discovered a whole new world within the TCIFA, filled with passion, dedication, and teamwork. Initially, there wasn’t much familiarity with the game aside from occasionally watching my mother and sister play. This gave me a unique perspective, but working within TCIFA broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation. With that being said, my journey has been nothing short of transformative. Every day, I am surrounded by individuals who share a love for football, immersed in an environment brimming with

Olivia Graveley

enthusiasm and unity, and it is truly inspiring. While I may have started off as a very reserved person, football has helped me find my voice and a place in a world full of vibrant personalities and stories waiting to be shared.” Candia remarked, “Looking forward, I am enthusiastic about continuing on this illuminated path that football has set before me. Each person who loves football contributes to the rich tapestry of this sport. It is a testament to its inclusive nature that there is a place for everyone, regardless of their background, gender, age, or ability.”

OLIVIA GRAVELEY

From her early days as a player in the football development programmes to representing the U15, U17, and Women’s national teams, Olivia Graveley’s passion for the sport has been unwavering. She transitioned into the role of Youth Development Officer at the FA in 2014, which was just the beginning of her impactful

administrative football career. Her dedication and expertise led her to the position of Head Coaching Development Officer, where she played an important role in shaping the future of football in the TCI. Consequently, as the Deputy Women’s Director, Olivia continued to break barriers and pave the way for women in football. Her commitment to the sport and her leadership skills did not go unnoticed, as she now holds the prestigious role of Director of the Grand Turk Football Programme. With her US and CONCACAF C Licences, Olivia continues to inspire and empower the next generation of football enthusiasts. Moreover, she holds a position as a member of the Caribbean Football Union Women’s Committee. Notably, she is the visionary behind #GOAM (Girls On A Mission), a collective of young female leaders devoted to community service in the TCI region, and an initiative that aims to empower women through

various projects and workshops, underpinned by values of service.

“Her narrative exemplifies the profound impact of perseverance, diligence, and an unwavering passion for a sport that transcends boundaries,” the FA stated.

“Football has been a part of my life for almost all my life,” Olivia reflects, showcasing her deep connection to the beautiful game. “From the early days of kicking a ball around with friends to the adrenaline rush of playing competitively on the field and coaching, football has been a constant source of joy and excitement for me. The beautiful game has taught me the value of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. It has a way of bringing people together and creating unforgettable memories. I am reminded of the passion and love that has fuelled my journey with this sport. Football isn’t just a game to me; it’s a part of who I am, shaping my character and providing endless opportunities for growth and camaraderie. I am very grateful for the invaluable years of growth and development experienced within TCIFA.”

FRITZ ELVARISTE

From the humble beginnings at Tropical Plaza to the bustling headquarters of today, Fritz Elvariste has been a pillar of support for football at the TCIFA. His expertise in grounds maintenance and active involvement in various football activities, both within the FA and the Sharks Football Club, exhibits his deep love for the sport. Fritz has fulfilled multiple roles, serving as the groundskeeper, equipment manager, driver, player, coach, and referee, showcasing remarkable versatility and unwavering dedication to the sport.

His passion for the game can be traced back to his roots at Violette Athlete Club in Haiti, underlining his lifelong connection to football.

Fritz’s infectious enthusiasm and optimistic outlook shine through his words, “Football holds a special place in my heart.” His joy in his work and gratitude for being part of TCIFA is palpable. He frequently articulates that his colleagues serve as an enduring wellspring of motivation and inspiration. For Fritz, football is a lifelong passion that continues to fuel his dedication and bring him immense happiness. He thrives on the energy of the game, finding solace in the rhythm of each moving component.

TCIFA’s President, Sonia Fulford said, “The dedication and commitment shown by our employees are truly commendable. Candia, Olivia and Fritz embody the very essence of loyalty and expertise within the association. As we mark their milestones of 10 (in the case of Candia and Olivia) and 22 years (in the case of Fritz) respectively, we reflect on the invaluable contributions they have made to the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association. Their unwavering passion for their work has not only shaped the organisation but has also inspired others around them. Their commitment and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful for everything they do. Here’s to celebrating these remarkable individuals and looking forward to many more years of success and collaboration ahead. Congratulations on this significant milestone, and may their passions continue to drive them to even greater achievements in the years to come.”

Candia Ewing

Fritz Elvariste

Sports National

Forbes completes B coaching licence course

National football captain Billy Forbes is looking to continue participating in the sport that he loves, when that time comes, he would do so from the bench.

Welcome Coach Forbes.

The ace footballer, who was issued his US Soccer, National B Coaching Licence on Tuesday, said that he is “ready to coach any pro teams and national teams”.

“For the past 6 months, I learnt the game I’ve played for 12+ years as a Pro athlete in a different light. It challenged me and pushed me in a way I didn’t

know existed. So grateful for the experience, and connections made throughout the course,” Forbes stated on social media.

The 33-year-old still plays quality football and has several years of United Soccer League (USL) experience under his belt. On the field, his level of experience and his positive demeanour prove key in rallying the players; so his desire to coach comes as no surprise.

Forbes added that “Having a growth mindset is key, we keep learning and keep pushing!”

HARDWARE’S ALL-ROUND EFFORT PROPELS OMAR’S TO CRICKET VICTORY

A solid performance with the bat from Delovan Hardware and effective bowling propelled Omar’s cricket team to victory in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association (TCICA) T20 competition at the Downtown Ball Park.

In the latest clash, GK Foods won the toss and opted to bat first, but they found it difficult to challenge the opening bowling pair of Ian Heath (2-18 from two overs) and Xavier Scott (1-19 from three) as three of the first four batsmen lost their wickets without score.

Although the pair of Ashook Kumar (20) and Rajakumar Kasi (31) tried to rebuild the innings in the middle, with a fifth-wicket partnership of 33, it was not enough.

Ramuni Chang (2-19 from four), with support from Robert Johnson (1-15 from four), Hardware (2-12) and Dane Ritchie (1-11 from 1.5 overs) did the damage with the ball in the middle and latter stages of the innings to restrict GK Foods to 102-9 (opener I. Peiris 10*) retired and did not return.

Needing just 5.15 runs per over for victory, Omar ended up batting deep to seal the win.

Opener Hardware, who faced 34 balls for his match-high 39, scored six fours and the game’s lone six. At the other end, wickets were tumbling. Although none of the other batsmen reached double figures, they all made a few runs, which resulted in the side reaching

103-6

in 16.4 overs.

S. Raju was the pick of the GK bowlers with 2-20, though Kasi,

who got the wicket of Hardware, finished with the best figures of 1-18 from four, including a maiden.

Billy Forbes is ready to transition into the coaching world

Omar’s cricket team registered a four-wicket victory

Delovan Hardware receives his man-of-the-match trophy