TC Weekly News March 2 - 8, 2024

Grace Bay named best Caribbean beach by TripAdvisor

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Grace Bay Beach with its powderywhite sand and bright blue waters, has been ranked as the best beach in the Caribbean on TripAdvisor.

The world-renowned Grace Bay beach has further cemented its place as the crown jewel of the Turks and Caicos Islands when Tripadvisor released the results of its Travelers’ Choice® Awards.

GraceBay was ranked No. 1 Beach in the Caribbean in the category B’est of the Best for 2024’ and No. 5 among the Top 25 Best of the Best Beaches in the world.

Grace Bay Beach has consistently ranked among the top beaches in the world on the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards since 2019.

As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travelers and diners.

With more than one billion reviews and contributions, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby and general guidance from those who have visited the destination before.

Experience Turks and Caicos, the territory tourism marketing and management agency made the announcement in a statement on Monday, February 26, 2024.

“This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review

on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travelers’ favorites”, Experience Turks and Caicos said.

Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor John Boris, congratulated the Turks and Caicos Islands and Grace Bay Beach on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

He said: “Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to goonline and leave a glowing review about their experience.

“Travelers rely on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best lists to help them navigate the myriad things to see, eat and do across the globe.

“We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2024 and beyond.”

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Commenting on the latest accolade for the Turks and Caicos Islands’, Minister of Tourism, the Hon Josephine Connolly said as a luxury destination, the Turks and Caicos Islands has a natural allure with its breath-taking beaches that allows affluent leisure travellers to unwind and relax in comfort.

“Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award is one of the most recognised and coveted awards

in the travel space, so it is very valuable to us to have our very own Grace Bay Beach included yet again among the best beaches in the world.

“I want to thank all of our visitors who continue to make the Turks and Caicos Islands their vacation spot of choice and who enjoy the white sand and clear, turquoise waters of Grace Bay Beach. For those who are yet to

experience the beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands, I urge you to visit and spend some time with us. We look forward to welcoming you,” the Minister said.

The Turks and Caicos Islands is made up of two groups of islands in the Lucayan Archipelago: the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands, thus the name.

It is home to some of the best beaches in the world with majestic white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Each island and cay is a destination of its own. Providenciales is home to worldrenowned Grace Bay Beach, luxury hotels, resorts, villas, spas and restaurants. Grand Turk is ‘home away from home’ for our cruise passengers, and our sister islands are the gateway to nature, exploration, and culture.

Considered the world’s best-kept secret, TCI is an effortless escape – with an ease of connectivity through direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Kimo Tynes appointed Director of Communications

Mr Kimo Tynes has been appointed as the first Director of Communications within the Communications Directorate in the Office of the Premier and Public Policy.

The Office of the Acting Governor and Head of the Public Service announced the appointment in a statement on Thursday, February 29, 2024.

Mr Tynes is a seasoned communications professional with a distinguished background in international communication. Holding a Master’s in International Communication & Development from City, University of London, United Kingdom, a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from York University, Toronto, Canada, and an Associates of Arts Degree from Camosun College, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, he brings a wealth of experience and academic excellence to his new role.

Since October 2022, Mr Tynes has served as the Deputy Director of Communications, showcasing his exceptional skills in delivering communication strategies aligned

Mr Kimo Tynes

with government priorities. His ability to manage reputational risks, exercise sound judgment, and provide authoritative leadership to his team has been evident. Mr. Tynes consistently aligns communication delivery to secure government objectives, utilizing media and marketing strategies, internal communication, and stakeholder engagement to inform critical audiences.

Before joining the Communications Directorate, Mr Tynes served as the Consular Officer for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government in London from 2015 to 2022. He also held the position of Senior Public Relations Officer for the former Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, bringing valuable insights from both the

Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos Islands (Beaches Resorts photo)

Saunders sacked as Deputy Premier and Finance Minister

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a surprising turn of events, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick fired Deputy Premier Hon Erwin “Jay” Saunders from his Cabinet on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, following a challenge to the leadership of the Progressive National Party (PNP).

The Premier’s decision to terminate Saunders’ position in his Cabinet came just days after Saunders unsuccessfully challenged him for the PNP’s leadership at its National General Council held last Saturday.

The Former Deputy Premier’s termination has since sparked mixed reactions and ignited a firestorm of online comments from residents with some expressing shock and disbelief while others opined that the dismissal was expected.

On Tuesday, February 27th, 2024 Saunders confirmed that he was stripped of his Ministerial portfolio which included Deputy Premier’s Cabinet and would be joining the PNP’s backbench in the House of Assembly via a WhatsApp chatroom which he established at the beginning of his tenure as a Cabinet Minister to foster greater communication with the local media.

“Fyi, it’s official…it means, “I’ll be joining the others in the

back bench,” Saunders told media operatives.

Shortly after, a brief statement further revealed that the Premier has advised HE Anya Williams, Acting Governor, in accordance with Section 34 (2) (b) of the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution of the change to ministerial appointments with effect from Tuesday 27, February 2024.

The statement revealed that Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick will replace Saunders as the Minister with responsibility for Finance, Investment, and Trade,

while Hon Erwin Jay Saunders will continue to serve as a Member of Parliament for the All-Island District.

In announcing this ministerial change, the Premier stated “I wish to thank Honourable Saunders for his service these past three years as my Deputy and for his stewardship in the ministries he served.

“My government will undertake a review of the various functions and responsibilities as outlined in the current ministerial portfolios, and I will advise the Acting

Kimo Tynes appointed Director ...

public and private sectors.

Reflecting on his appointment, Mr Tynes stated: “William Shakespeare wrote in the play As You Like It, ‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.’

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my country and play my part at this stage of national development and in my life.

“It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and perseverance that has brought me to where I am today.

“I am grateful for the unwavering support of my family and friends, and I am proud of myself for the strength of character and resilience that have enabled me to overcome every challenge.

“In life, nothing happens before its time and as I continue this journey, I am confident I have what it takes to succeed and make a positive impact. I remain thankful. May God bless our Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Commenting on Mr Tynes’ appointment, Head of the Public Service and Deputy Governor, HE Anya Williams, stated: “I’m elated to congratulate Mr Kimo Tynes on his appointment as the Director of Communications within the Communications Directorate in the Office of the Premier and Public Policy.

“This is a significant achievement for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government as Mr. Tynes will serve as the first Director of the Communications Directorate since its establishment in 2022.

“The role of the Communications Directorate

CONTINUED 

is critical as it is responsible for communicating the plans, actions, and vision for the government to every tier of society.

“ With a proven track record of developing and implementing compelling communication plans, Mr. Tynes has displayed a remarkable ability to enable and drive organizational priorities. His leadership includes effective management of resources and budgets to achieve value for money, identifying costsaving opportunities, and ensuring the efficient delivery of communication objectives.

“We are confident in Mr Tynes’ ability to take on this task and to lead the Communications Directorate into the next phases of its operations.

“Congratulations on this welldeserved career achievement, Kimo!”

Governor of any additional changes in due course.”

NO ANIMOSITY

On Wednesday evening, Saunders in a national address attempted to clarify the events and his motivations.

He vehemently dispelled rumours of infighting in the PNP’s camp and emphasised the importance of bold decisionmaking and representing the people’s views while expressing his gratitude to his family, his former staff, and the Premier for their support during his tenure.

Attempting to set the record straight, Saunders stressed that his bid for the party’s leadership did not stem from any prior disagreement over policy issues with the Premier.

In his address to the nation, he explained that he made the decision to challenge Misick for the leadership of the PNP because he believed that the government should be “of the people, by the people, and for the people”.

Saunders also said that he had no disagreements with Misick over policy issues, and that he still had confidence in him as premier.

He maintained that his decision was motivated by a desire to represent the views of the people, and he called on party members to rally behind Misick in the upcoming election.

“For the record, I sat as the Deputy Premier and as a minister at the pleasure of the Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, the Premier’s job is to construct a cabinet that he or she feels will best allow him or her to achieve the objectives of their government.

“A premier can move an MP in

and out of the cabinet as he or she sees fit, now let me make clear the Honourable Premier and I have no disagreements over policy issues and we made decisions as a collective and as a former member of cabinet, I stand by those decisions.

“So for clarity, the Premier and I have no disagreements and we share no animosity towards each other”.

He further opined that contrary to popular belief, his challenge to the incumbent leader had no bearing on his confidence in the party’s leadership.

“ I had and I retain full confidence in the Honourable Charles Washington Misick as Premier and my nomination is made on in the Congress was due to one thing and one thing only, that is my belief that governments should be of the people, by the people, and for the people

“Our delegates on Saturday, 40% of them specifically, had a different view from the status quo and I gave them the opportunity to express their view on the Congress floor.”

Saunders said he was cognizant that challenging the Party’s incumbent leader posed a risk to his political career.

“He said: “Representing the people, no matter how small, doesn’t weaken democracy, it strengthens it, so I made a bold decision, while knowing the potential risks to my political career, to allow them ( the delegates) to express their views through me.”

The former Deputy Premier underscored that for the TCI to continue on its path of growth and for Islanders to “live their best lives we’re going to need bold decisionmakers who are prepared to face the consequences in representing you and that is what I did from the front bench previously, and I will continue to do so from the back bench.”

He called on the party members to refocus their energies on securing a re-election for the Premier.

“Now that it’s over, we need to look to what’s next, we the PNP have an election to win and we need all hands on deck fully behind the leader of the party.

“The only thing we should be thinking about on Election Day is improving on our 14th seat and getting our premier his second term. I think we will be making history with that because he will be the first person to have three terms in government as leader of the country”, he stated.

Former Deputy Premier Erwin “Jay” Saunders during his national address

THE PPP CONTRACT WITH INTERHEALTH CANADA

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick said the territory’s long-term healthcare contract is too costly and is not working in the best interest of the people. The Turks and Caicos government signed a PPP contract with Interhealth Canada in 2008/09 to build and operate two hospitals in the territory, the Cockburn Town Medical Centre on Grand Turk and the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Providenciales.

Speaking at his annual State of the State address to mark his administration’s third year in office on Monday, February 19, 2024, Misick said his Government’s goal is to build a healthcare system that serves the needs of the Turks and Caicos citizens. He said: “We are giving our people the opportunities to lead healthy, balanced and more productive lives.

“We have a long-term healthcare contract that for various reasons is extremely expensive and does not serve the best interest of our people. We are resolute and have now redoubled our efforts to hold the contractor to account for the many legacy breaches that burden our treasury and shortchange our people.” Misick said the government is implementing a better contract management system that will improve the delivery of care. What are your thoughts?

Eyes finally open

His eyes are finally opening. The contract was bad from the start, TCIslanders should never feel like second class citizens in their own country.

And in many ways, this is how we feel.

A bad deal

It is time the Turks and Caicos Islands come to terms with the financial and economic albatross over the necks of the people of the TCI. In the 2012 General Elections, post interim government era, former Chief Minister and then PDM Leader, the Hon Oswald Skipping made it his central promise to deal with that contract. An agreement “Written in the Pits of Hell” was shrouded in utmost secrecy. During its making and implementation, no aspect of the agreement

nobody will be able to touch them. Unless something drastic is done such as mass involvement of the public, intense lobbying and demonstrations, it will be business as usual.

The road has been rough

One thing for sure is that since those hospitals were put in place, it has not been an easy ride for TCI. The road has been rough. There is that sense and reality that people are paying too much for something that is fully overpriced.

How do you pay over $120m for two facilities in Provo and Grand Turk, less than 150 rooms? Then comes the administration of the hospitals, which is lacking.

Meaning that in 14 years little has been done by the provider and the government to improve the nature and quality of health care delivery. It is time TCI people demand and get representation for this sham and scam of a healthcare system.

Just talk

could be made available to the public.

The public, the real owners, had to be satisfied with leaks. One had to go to the offices of the Ministry of Health and “look at the contract”. One of the signs of seriousness on the part of the Premier would be to publish the hospital contract in its entirety. With that kind of commitment and permanent budgetary obligation, no elected government would ever see the way to take care of the people. It is an agreement that must end because it was never good for the people and the future of the TCI.

When deals are of this size and nature, they are often times protected. Anyone trying to do anything will soon be removed and they are quickly labelled “troublemakers” as a counter-reaction. There will be a wall of protection over the deal in London and “the big law firms” will be conflicted so much that it would be hard to “get a day in court” or before an arbitration tribunal.

The legal, judicial, finance and other systems will be so organised and ready, that

Little comfort comes from the Premier in dealing with the questionable healthcare arrangements in the TCI.

Any serious government or premier would have made the number policy objective of a government such goals. They have been in office for exactly three years and little has been done. There has been an ongoing arbitration which is really and truly out the hands of ministers, which cannot seem to end or reach a realistic deadline or conclusion.

TCI politicians seem really comfortable with making outside millionaires richer than their own people. So, what do they do, take the agreement to parliament, pass it, and layer it with walls of secrecy: laws that prohibit any form of disclosure, legal opinions and the like, all designed to keep the truth from the people.

If this government even cared about the truth of the hospital deal they would rail against the secrecy, move bills to repeal

these unfair laws and expose the entire arrangement to the people who must pay for all of this. They cannot be taken seriously on this. After all, it was the PNP government of 2008/09, who signed those agreements, provided for per diems, underwrote the entire structure of secrecy and enacted this massive scam into law. How can they now come back, after all of these years and move against their own laws and policies? It is not going to happen.

This is an election year, the Premier is free to say what he likes to pacify those thinkers and persons who care about the finances of this country but it really “goes nowhere”. No, they cannot be taken seriously on this issue at all.

Where is the accountability?

Ever since its inception, the health care providers have had free reign. Some people have had a good experience at the hospital while others not so good. Reports between the hospital and NHIP are always negative. It is a major financial drain on the people. Without that agreement being in place, a serious government would really have been able to provide for its people.

Too much money annually comes out of the treasury for a secret project, no accountability, bad services, inefficiency and the money keeps going from the taxpayers. Where is the accountability? There is little and no confidence that they are prepared to do something of a serious nature about these arrangements.

After 14 years of paying out, hand over

Washy’ returns as PNP leader, beats ‘E Jay’ 88-58

– supporters divided following convention weekend

BY DELANA ISLES

The Progressive National Party (PNP) hosted its annual convention this past weekend, returning the Honourable Charles Washington Misick as its party leader to take it to the next general election.

But the election was not without some drama, as Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders who was at the time the Deputy Premier, Deputy Party Leader as well as the Minister of Finance threw his hat into the ring with gusto, challenging Misick’s position as Leader of the Party.

A risky move that eventually cost him, but before the dust had settled and repercussions dished out, Saunders did manage to put up quite the fight, emerging with 58 votes, to Misick’s 88.

Though Saunders was not the only challenger, he was the only one who came close to Misick’s hold on the party. The other challengers were Dameko Dean, former PNP representative for Wheeland and Jas Walkin, District Commissioner of North and Middle Caicos.

However, Walkin had withdrawn his application for leadership days prior to the National General Council (NGC) being held.

Saunders faced major repercussions following his bid for leadership of the party, losing all of his portfolios, and was demoted to the back bench of the House of Assembly.

A move that was swift from the

party leader – who according to the PNP party by-laws – is tasked with selecting his Deputy.

Misick selected Saunders in 2019, disappointing several other contenders, and revealing at the time his confidence in the former Deputy’s ability to work for the good of the party and the country.

There were reports, which were not confirmed by Walkin, that he too faced some backlash for his temerity.

On the heels of the NGC’s decisions, supporters took to social media to express their continued support for Saunders – highlighting

fist, the country and its people go without. Schools, social welfare and the like go without any form of due attention. Nothing is free and people are paying. Owing to deals of this nature, a majority of the civil service cannot get proper salary increases. There is a trade-off. There are limited scholarships. It is a bad arrangement, there is buyer’s remorse and something seriously needs to be done.

Incompetence and Ignorance

The “various reasons” were incompetence and ignorance. They were warned by several people.

Let’s hope the breaches are sufficient to open up negotiations. This time hire top gun specialist lawyers and similar accountants. Please don’t go around pretending you know what you are doing.

his significant work during his tenure – while others were vociferous in their condemnation of his actions.

Commenting on his return as leader of the PNP, Misick thanked the delegates of the NGC for their continued support and confidence in his ability to lead.

He said: “Your trust and support are truly humbling, and I am committed to guiding the PNP forward with dedication and vision.

“Together, we will continue to

uphold the principles of integrity, inclusivity, and service as we work towards our common goals. Your confidence in me fuels my determination to lead with transparency and accountability.”

He has called for unity among party members and supporters, thanking them as well for their support.

Meanwhile, the party has not yet revealed who the other elected persons are, for the offices of Deputy National PNP Chairman,

National Treasurer, Public Relations Director, Chaplin, and Party Whip.

However, it was confirmed that Hon. Kyle Knowles has been elected as the PNP National Chairman.

Knowles released a brief statement following the NGC, stating: “The Congress showcased democracy in action, where everyone’s voice matters, opinions are respected, and decisions are made transparently.

“It was a display of unity, civility, and passionate debate, highlighting our dedication to democratic values and founding principles of the PNP.”

He urged: “As we move forward, let’s stand together, recognising our dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to our party’s principles.

“The Congress’ selection reflects the trust and confidence placed in the decision of our members.”

Prior to the NGC, the party opened its convention weekend with the Young Nationals Banquet and Pinning Ceremony on Friday, February 23, followed by the NGC and a Convention Day Social on Saturday.

The weekend of events concluded with a Day of Thanksgiving at the Community Fellowship Church in Providenciales.

Electoral District Boundary

Commission appointed – Reverend Williams to chair

The Turks and Caicos Islands is stepping up its preparation for the 2025 general election, this time with the appointment of the chair and members of the Electoral Boundary Commission.

Reverend Dr Julia Williams was last week appointed as chair of the commission, while Justice Neville Adderly and Attorney Tremmaine Harvey will serve as members.

The appointments are in line with Section 60 of the TCI Constitution and were approved by HE the Governor, Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam after consultation with the Premier and the Leader of

the Opposition.

The trio assumed their appointments on February 26.

A statement from the Governor’s Office this week reported that in the exercise of its functions under the Constitution, the Commission and its members will not be subject to the direction and control of any person or authority.

The Commission will be reviewing the boundaries of the electoral districts within the TCI and will submit a report to the Governor and the House of Assembly.

This report will outline whether changes should be made to the

electoral boundaries, it will state what those changes are to be, or it will recommend that no changes are necessary.

To conduct their functions, and come to a conclusion regarding changes to boundaries, the commission will invite views from members of the public, consult the public about a draft of its report and may seek advice as it considers appropriate.

The Governor’s Office will in the coming weeks and months be providing the public with further information regarding the work of the Commission, as well as proposed dates for public meetings.

PNP convention hosted over the weekend saw some controversy, demotions and public bickering on leadership choices.

Strife within PNP ranks comes under scrutiny by Opposition

– Premier as Gaming Minister raises serious conflicts

BY DELANA ISLES

No stranger to internal conflict themself – the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is reflecting on the obvious strife and division within the governing PNP following a heated convention weekend.

The party has also raised a significant issue as it relates to the Premier’s new role as Minister of Finance with responsibility for gaming, since he abruptly fired his Finance Minister last weekend.

Addressing the flurry of activity within the PNP were PDM National Chairman Ezra Taylor and Former Deputy Premier under the PDM party, Honourable Sean Astwood.

Astwood pointed out that the Premier, Hon. C.W. Misick, has now placed himself smack dab in the middle of a conflict of interest with the Integrity Commission, while questioning his motives, judgement and intentions.

“With an ongoing investigation before the Integrity Commission alleging a serious conflict of interest for a Gaming Amendment Bill, brought to the House of Assembly by the Premier, when Gaming Commission fell under the Former Minister of Finance, the choice of the Premier to make himself the Minister of Gaming is troubling,” the former Deputy

Premier stated.

He pointed out that the Gaming Commission falls under the Ministry of Finance, as such it will undoubtedly receive directives from its Minister who now, “conveniently”, is the Premier.

“I am extremely concerned as to what directives the Premier will be issuing to staff of the Gaming Commission that could potentially interfere with the ongoing Integrity Commission investigation.”

Astwood said the Premier should have used better judgement and selected a different ministry to oversee or continue to oversee none at all, as he has been doing for the past three years.

He said it is now even more important for the Integrity Commission and the Governor to pay closer attention to the Gaming

Commission, calling for a full and complete review of the body.

“This cannot be an oversight by a Premier who has been involved in politics for decades.

“The consistent poor judgement by this current Premier is both disappointing and disturbing and should have every voter wondering if he truly came for this ‘wuk’ or did he just come back for something else as many believe.”

POWER STRUGGLE

Taylor – the PDM National Chairman – in his remarks on the weekend’s activities, remarked that the evidence is clear that there is trouble, distrust and a power struggle within the governing party.

“There can be no doubt after this past weekend that there are large

and different factions within the PNP party that are dissatisfied with Hon. Misick’s leadership and are seeking a change in direction and leadership.

“It is a straight up power struggle,” Taylor said.

He reflected that the challenge by three different members of the party – inclusive of the party deputy and former campaign chairman - is an indictment on Misick’s leadership or lack thereof.

“A challenge with such large support this close to the general elections also indicates that there are many members and supporters of the PNP who do not believe that Hon. Misick can take the PNP successfully through the next general elections.

“How will they function or govern moving forward with the

hatred and mistrust that they all are feeling for each other,” the PDM Chair questioned.

Taylor also drew attention to the conflict of interest issue that Misick is now presented with, and other decisions taken by the government that could be source of some of the discord within the PNP.

“The challenge may indicate underlying tensions or disagreements within the party, some say over leadership styles others say over certain actions Premier Misick has taken like the Write off for Provo Water Company that seemingly was the major issue between Premier Misick and Hon. Akeira Missick that resulted in her abrupt firing as a Minister.

“And more recently, the move to quickly pass the Gaming Bills in the Deputy Premier’s absence noting that those bills fell directly under the remit of the Hon. Saunders.”

Taylor also speculated that the TCI Airport Authorities redevelopment deal is also another source of tension.

“We are also understanding that there are also serious tensions in the PNP’s camp over the airport deal and who will be the one(s) eventually benefiting from it.

“Speculation is that this tension has been the main reason the process has been moving so slowly.”

Meanwhile, as the dust settles post-convention, and the PNP regroups, the PDM is up next for its convention this June.

Election fever is officially in the air.

PDM National Chairman Ezra Taylor

Former Deputy Premier (PDM), Honourable Sean Astwood

Five international companies competing for Howard Hamilton Airport redevelopment

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Five international construction companies will compete for a Public Private Partnership agreement to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the Howard Hamilton International Airport.

However, the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) has assured that ownership of the airport will remain with the TCIAA, on behalf of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The multimillion-dollar redevelopment project when completed is expected to give the Howard Hamilton International Airport formerly known as the Providenciales International Airport a life cycle of at least 40 years.

The massive redevelopment project which is likely to be one of the largest infrastructure and operations enhancement projects undertaken in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands, will see the construction of a parallel taxiway and a new state-of-the-art passenger terminal to accommodate a projected growth of circa 2.5 million passengers among other upgrades and enhancements.

Since the official release of an invitation for prequalification for the redevelopment project on 15th August 2023, the TCIAA has received a total of eight prequalification applications during the first stage of an open international procurement process.

ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2024, IT SAID THAT THE SHORTLIST INCLUDES:

1) Manchester Airports Holdings Limited, Winward Management Ltd., and BHM

Construction International (UK) Ltd

2) Ferrovial Airports International SE, and Projetech Construction Management and Services Ltd

3) Aecon International Construction Services Inc., Olympic Construction Ltd., and VINCI Airports SAS

4) Regis Holdings S.A., HAB Limited, daa International Limited, and Bouygues Batiment International

5) Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico S.A.B. de C.V., and John Redmond Associates Ltd

The Airport Authority said it anticipates the release of the Invitation to Tender by the

AA aircraft lands in TCI for medical emergency, passenger dies

An American Airlines aircraft made an emergency landing in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Wednesday evening after a female passenger fell ill mid-flight.

According to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the commercial flight was en route from the Dominican Republic to Charlotte, USA when the passenger became unwell.

The incident was reported to the police control room shortly after 6 pm

via a call from the Air Traffic Control Tower requesting medical assistance for a 41-year-old female, who at the time was receiving Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

“A medical team, along with police units, were dispatched, and the patient was transported to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, where she died.”

The police further informed that a post-mortem would be conducted to ascertain the cause of death.

end of March 2024 where the participation of each of the shortlisted applicants will be subject to their ability to maintain the eligibility prequalification requirements satisfied through their prequalification application.

The selection of a preferred bidder will be based on a comprehensive evaluation of tender submissions, including technical proposals, financial considerations, and adherence to the project requirements.

PUBLIC-PRIVATEPARTNERSHIP

The Government’s decision to pursue a Public-Private Partnership

(PPP) route for the project is a bone of contention in the territory, as some fear the PPP will disenfranchise Turks and Caicos Islanders.

However, The TCIAA has maintained that proper systems are in place.

“The Howard Hamilton International Airport Redevelopment Project demonstrates a commitment to enhancing infrastructure for the benefit of all stakeholders involved and an opportunity for economic development directly impacting Turks and Caicos Islanders through a programme by which Turks and Caicos Islanders will be able to purchase individual shares

in a company set-up to participate in the concession agreement”, the TCIAA stated.

Last year, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA), Mr Godfrey Smith said the TCIAA fully understands the economic importance of the airport to these islands and the sensitivity of the project.

Smith, who was at the time speaking at the official release of the business proposal for the redevelopment project on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, said: “More importantly, it understands the trust that the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands have placed in it to deliver greater economic successes and opportunities for the people of these islands.”

The TCI is marketed as a premium/niche Caribbean tourist destination, with traffic mainly composed of high-yield United States of America inbound tourists.

The TCI also welcomes regularly scheduled flights from London, UK, Toronto, Canada, and the neighbouring Caribbean region and there is still room to increase its touristic hotel offer density—the main driver for air traffic development.

Against this backdrop, the TCI government has stated that the redevelopment and modernisation of the Howard Hamilton International Airport is a priority for the country and that it is committed to ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget.

The redevelopment project is expected to create significant economic benefits for the islands, including job creation and increased tourism.

Howard Hamilton International Airport, formerly the Providenciales International Airport

It is fine to challenge your leader

I recall when I was hired by Cable & Wireless as the management accountant, the General Manager informed me that I would be in that role for a year and then I would be the financial controller. A year came by, and I was not made the financial controller and so when the job was advertised, I applied for it and copied the Labour Department.

The financial controller at that time had no intention of vacating the post as his plan was to be in the TCI for another five years. While the Labour Department approved the labour clearance, the Immigration Board did not approve the work permit. Therefore, I got the position of Financial Controller.

However, it was not easy as management did not expect me to apply. Management even wanted to send me to Bermuda. There were even talks about having the financial controller work remotely. I ended up being in that position for

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.

seven years and eventually became the CEO for seven years.

I don’t see anything wrong with challenging leadership. Challenging leadership can be a good thing as it can keep the leader on his/her feet. Not because you have the title leader means you know everything, and everybody should not have to agree with you. However, when it comes to challenging the leader for his or her position, it can be very tricky especially if the outcome is not

what you expected.

Make sure you use wisdom when running against your leader. While you are not obligated to inform your leader, I do suggest that out of courtesy and respect, you should let the leader know your intentions to compete against him or her. If you are unsuccessful and should you decide to stay in the organisation, it will be awkward working alongside the leader.

Running for any position can result in a favourable or

unfavourable outcome. You may think you may win but not everyone that says they’ll support you will support you. Some people will set you up so be prepared that you may lose too.

Due to a lack of trust and the human nature of an individual, be prepared that you may risk losing your position or your duties and responsibilities may be reduced.

In the private sector, it is not easy to fire your colleagues but in politics, the Premier has the right to fire any of the ministers. However, is firing the best option? What if other members challenge you, will they get fired too?

Based on my experience, it is hard working with someone you do not trust, especially if that person tells you one thing and does something else. However, leadership should not be just about you, it should be what is best for the organisation.

If someone in leadership contributes successfully to an organisation, invite an independent person to meet with both of you to have a frank and open discussion. Try to work things out and move on. Everybody deserves a second chance.

Another way to overcome leadership challenges is to stop making decisions on hearsay.

Finally, do not be anxious about anything. Be patient.

No one should be afraid to challenge a leader. If you don’t agree with something, you should have the right to say so. Likewise, if you want to run for a leadership position, you should have the right to do so as well.

However, whatever you do, make sure you are transparent and honest. Lack of trust and lack of communication can destroy you.

In the end, we must learn to love and forgive.

A looming energy crisis: How would it impact the TCI?

It’s not a stretch to assert that things are heating up around the world, not only by high temperatures, but geopolitical tensions are spiraling, and as brewing political rhetoric mutates into real wars, the supplies of oil and gas are expected to slow.

I believe that if a full-blown war ignites across the Middle East, where some of the biggest oil producers emerged, it can transform the world into an uninhabitable place to live.

As we know, the prospects of oil supply are heavily reliant on production constraints that emanate when oil fields strike maturity levels.

Furthermore, the oil crisis –

BY D MARKIE SPRING

like the 1973 Arab oil embargo, and the short-term cessation of oil shipment from Arab countries to the US, African and European countries for their support for Israel during the fourth Arab-Israeli War, is seemingly inevitable.

This inescapable shortage is

also owing to persistent price hikes over the past decade, which suggests that the global oil markets have entered a period of increased scarcity.

The implications of such depletion are crucial, yet profound.

In the TCI, as in other countries, oil is the chief facet, and widely used in transportation and production of household goods.

And beyond this impending shortage, the evidence suggests, that any changes within oil market conditions would encompass direct and indirect effects on TCI’s society and to a greater extent, the wider economy in respect of growth, inflation, and poverty.

To put this into perspective,

envisage the disruption in the oil and gas industry supply chains from political instability, regulatory and economic changes, and legislative violence.

Not only would these factors result in costly legal proceedings, but they would disrupt the availability of energy from blockades and the minimum supply on the market would be unaffordable for TCI’s residents.

Now, ask yourselves if oil becomes scarce, what would life be like in the TCI? Picture unbearable queues at the pumps. Even so, if one manages to get a full tank, how long would it last?

And considering that fossil fuel is the source of TCI’s power generation, conceptualise an island without lights and darkness hovering over the land.

Help me understand, how would you cook? Goods, which were once kept in refrigerators, how would you preserve them? And how do you plan to power up your computers, smartphones or even the television set?

Furthermore, what would happen

when all economic activities come to a halt? Imagine all hotels closed, even supermarkets and banks. And if Kishco, Do It Centre and KB Homes” operations ceased, where would accessories and building materials come from?

What about a non-functional hospital and healthcare system without electricity? This would mean – all ‘lights out,’ right? Too, how would you get to the sister islands, and do you see yourselves walking everywhere?

Now, take a minute to recall the aftermaths of the 911 terrorist attacks and Covid-19. Here, I would assume that you’ve gotten the picture!

Prior, we’ve encouraged policymakers to invest and install reserve tanks to store oil, to effectively stay afloat during an oil crisis; nonetheless, this has not yet translated into a policy priority; hence, we’ll leave it right there!

At this juncture without an energy policy framework to help mitigate the oil crisis on the horizon, life will become unbearable.

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.

“The blessings of marriage”

In the creation narrative in Genesis 1 and 2, the final act is establishing marriage. Here is the record of that -

“Then the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.

19 So out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens and brought them to the man to see what he would call them. And whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. 20

“The man gave names to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper fit for him. 21 So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. 22 And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. 23

“Then the man said, This, at last, is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman because she was taken out of Man. 24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. 25 And the man and his

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.

wife were both naked and were not ashamed.”

The foundational principle encapsulated in this text is the statement, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”

The above text is the blueprint for a successful marriage. The first thing to note is that Marriage is a Blessing. The text emphasizes that marriage is a divine blessing, a privilege, and an act of God’s favor. It is an aspect of God’s grace bestowed upon individuals and mankind as a whole for their good.

As such, it must be honored, revered, protected, and preserved, never taken lightly. A simple definition of marriage is that it is a three-way covenant between God, a man, and a woman. Let’s unpack this a bit. God is the one

who initiates marriage. He is also actively present in every Godhonoring marriage.

As a covenant, it means that marriage is a lifelong commitment, irrespective of how tough times get.

Finally, for the followers of Jesus, seeking God’s insight, leadership, and blessings are priorities for a fulfilled marriage.

There are several other blessings those who are married experience, according to Genesis 2:18-25. Firstly, marriage satisfies the innate desire for companionship. Humans are wired for connection and intimacy; marriage is the best platform for both to be satisfied. Secondly, it meets the need for partnership, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and collaboration in fulfilling life’s responsibilities.

Lastly, marriage gratifies the longing for a deep, meaningful relationship, revealing that God designed humans to desire a unique connection with one another. The reason marriages hit problems is told in Genesis 3; if you have not read that yet, do so

to understand why marital tensions exist. But here is the thing: though designed by God, marriages come with problems.

One thing you can do is hit that reset button. See your spouse as a blessing, and ask God to favor you with wisdom and insight in loving your spouse. Lastly, put yourself second in your marriage. Do this by giving more than you take; whether it’s acts of service, forgiveness, or words of encouragement and love, give more than you take. Be second.

As your creator, God loves you and wants you to know that. You can love him back, ask him how to.

Send

How to stop people from walking all over you – “Periodt”!

Something happened last week and it left me baffled.

So much so, that I had to think to myself why on earth it happened to me and not to the others I was with. Without spelling it out, the incident has opened my eyes to something I was a bit naive about.

Playing Mr Nice Guy gets you nowhere, it is overrated and tiring.

It’s time to be assertive_ No more Mr Nice Guy!

To overcome exploitation, adopt a bold, assertive stance. Resist automatic agreement and excessive cooperation. Refusal to say no leads to manipulation. Gradually implement change, avoiding abrupt aggression. Confront challenges, assertively yet tactfully. Prioritise self-respect to earn genuine respect. Cultivate confidence and assertiveness

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

without alienating others. Uphold self-esteem and confront intimidation. Lead instead of follow, maintain independence in decision-making. In other words, this is the bullet point.

1. Be adopt and adopt an assertive approach.

2. Say No! Their exploitation of you stems from your reluctance to say no, leading them to perceive you as naive

and easily manipulated.

3. While kindness is important, being a pushover is not.

4. Implement changes gradually but decisively.

5. Challenge yourself by confronting situations you typically avoid.

6. Respond assertively, yet tactfully, when challenged.

7. Refuse to comply with unreasonable demands.

8. Above all, prioritise self-

respect. When you value yourself, others will respect your boundaries. If some individuals withdraw their friendship, it signifies their self-serving motives.

9. Seek out new, healthier relationships.

10. Confidence should exude from every action you take.

11. Cultivate a reputation for assertiveness without becoming abrasive.

12. Strive for a balanced approach to maintain meaningful connections.

13. Nurture your self-esteem— it’s vital.

14. Don’t succumb to fear of confrontation.

15. Stand up to bullies, using force if necessary. Ignoring their intimidation only emboldens them.

16. Elevate yourself. If

circumstances become intolerable, speak up assertively and deflate their ego.

17. Don’t merely follow; lead or walk alongside others.

18. Be honest but not confrontational. By dispelling illusions, you’ll earn genuine respect.

19. Make decisions independently, demonstrating your selfreliance.

20. Show that others’ opinions are not paramount and that you can thrive on your own. “Periodt”.

How do you assert your selfworth?

Especially when someone tries you?

Please share here on louisedens@gmail.com

Anti-money laundering workshop tackles terrorist financing

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Over 40 participants from several law enforcement agencies and other key government departments recently attended a CounterTerrorism Financing Training in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

The participants were drawn from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), Integrity Commission, Ministry of Immigration and Border Services, Office of the Director of Public Prosecution, Attorney General’s Chambers, National Security Secretariat, Gaming Commission, Financial Services Commission, and the National AML/CFT Coordinator for the Anti-Money Laundering Committee Secretariat.

The challenge of tackling money laundering risks in a global marketplace demands a coordinated approach and a common understanding of evolving and emerging trends in both regulation and criminal activity.

Against this backdrop, a oneday Counter-Terrorism Financing Training Seminar was held on Friday 23rd February 2024, at Beaches Turks & Caicos by the AntiMoney Laundering Committee (AMLC) in collaboration with Mr Andrew Mitchell, KC to help law enforcement agencies learn about and combat terrorist financing.

This collaborative training session formed part of the Turks and Caicos Islands government’s effort to provide capacity building to the relevant law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and supervisors for the financial sector to enhance their systems to ensure that the TCI continues to make efforts to secure the global financial system from terrorist financing risks.

This training was hosted by the AMLC’s CounterTerrorism/Proliferation Financing Focus Group “to improve the

Counter Terrorism Training

understanding among LEAs and other competent authorities (CAs) of the risk of Financing Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (FT/ PF).

The sessions highlighted the need to conduct risk assessments and implement relevant risk mitigation measures based on identified risks

as well as coordinate CFT/CPFrelated training for LEAs, CAs and registrants/licensees of the above sectors.

Hon Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles, OBE, KC, and Chair of the AMLC delivered remarks at the workshop.

Presenters Mr Andrew Mitchell

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

KC, Ms Khalila Astwood, Deputy Attorney General and Mrs Shayone Handfield-Gardiner-Principal Crown Counsel-International made presentation on several subjects including the Introduction to Counter-Terrorism Financing; The Law in the TCI concerning Counter-Terrorism Financing, and Circumvention of Terrorist Financing Sanctions.

During an interactive session, participants were tasked with working together to execute a practical exercise that tested participants’ application of the training objectives.

Attendees shared their experiences and the challenges they face during the investigation and prosecution of money laundering and terrorist financing offences and the confiscation of proceeds linked with crime or terror and suggested good practices to deal with them.

In response to a threat scenario, participants developed an appropriate investigative strategy inclusive of domestic coordination,

international cooperation and the use of the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance and other LEA powers to convert of intelligence to evidence.

According to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, countries should ensure that designated law enforcement authorities have responsibility for money laundering and terrorist financing investigations within the framework of national AML/CFT policies.

Law enforcement can disrupt terrorist financing by identifying and freezing terrorist assets and investigating financial transactions that are suspected of being linked to terrorism.

Other measures include working with other law enforcement agencies around the world to share information and coordinate investigations, educating the public about terrorist financing, and working with financial institutions to help them identify and report suspicious financial activity.

Participants engaged in a practical exercise

Saunders hails TCI’s removal from EU’s tax blacklist – says more work is left to be done

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Jubilant over its recent removal from the European Union’s blacklist of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes, the Turks and Caicos Islands government is now focused on ensuring its removal from all monitoring lists.

This is according to Former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Investment and Trade Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders who hailed the TCI’s removal from the blacklist as a significant achievement for the territory but stressed there is still work left to do to ensure the TCI is “best in class”.

Some 15 months after being added to the European Union’s dreaded blacklist, the Turks and Caicos Islands has demonstrated sufficient cooperation with the EU’s tax standards and resolved the issues identified to become a compliant jurisdiction.

As a result late last month, the European Council Code of Conduct Group (“EU COCG”) removed the Turks and Caicos Islands from the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes.

Being blacklisted by an organisation like the European Union can have a number of negative impacts on a country’s economy.

This is because blacklisted jurisdictions are often seen as being high-risk, and as a result, businesses may be reluctant to trade with them or invest in them.

This can lead to a decline in trade and investment, which can hurt the country’s economy as well as its reputation, making it difficult for the country to attract foreign

investment and talent.

Saunders stated that being blacklisted has adversely impacted the territory’s economy, particularly in the financial services sector.

He noted that the blacklisting made it more difficult for businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands to do business internationally.

In an earnest attempt to remedy these problems, the government made significant efforts to improve its compliance with international tax standards, which eventually paid off, and the Turks and Caicos Islands were removed from the EU’s blacklist in February 2024.

Speaking at a brief press conference, the former finance minister stressed that the removal from the EU’s blacklist will bode well for the territory’s reputation, as the delisting brings measurable benefits, such as lower re-insurance rates for property owners.

He said: “The blacklist is seen as a black eye…our reputation is certainly going to improve now.

“There are some quantifiable things for example, one of our big financial products is producer reinsurance and that is the reinsurance on things that we insure to take like for instance, you hold the account around the world that reinsures the insurance that we take out on your property.

“A lot of the reinsurance companies, particularly around properties out of Germany, and Germany is an EU member and so one of the penalties was that they would have had to increase their rates to companies, lots of jurisdictions that will annex one on the blacklist.

“ So which meant that they

weren’t getting their rates to the insurance companies that were insuring properties, and the Turks and Caicos and so one of the direct effects of it was that you could then see the property insurance go up because we were on the blacklist.

“Now that we are off the blacklist, they would be able to return to the rates that they would normally charge and those rates would then be passed on to the insurance companies in the Turks and Caicos”, he explained.

MORE LEFT TO DO

Saunders underscored that the government will continue to work with the EU and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development (OECD) to fully comply with requirements and be removed from all monitoring lists.

He further stressed that the territory’s blacklisting was not for a lack of trying, since several years ago, the TCI enacted the Company’s and Limited Partnership, Economic Substance Ordinance 2018 and the supporting regulations around it in an effort to comply with Action Five of the OECD erosion and profit sharing initiative.

However, in 2021, the OECD advised the territory that an assessment of its compliance would be focused on four areas: the substance returns on IT systems, compliance actions, statistical data, and exchange of information.

Despite the ministry’s efforts to strengthen these highlighted areas, the OECD maintained that more work was needed to effectively meet its benchmarks.

As a result, the territory was

placed on annex one which is commonly referred to as the blacklist.

He said: “We visited Europe and we spoke to the EU and we spoke to the OECD and I said, that I felt disappointed and that we were partners with the EU and we felt that we were working very, very hard, but that we would commit to doing the work that we needed to do to not just get off the blacklist but to be best in class.

“So I’m happy that on the 25th of February 2024 this year, the member states of the EU decided to remove the Turks and Caicos Islands from annex one.”

He added: “We still have a lot of work to do, but I want to reiterate particularly to the OECD and the EU that we will continue to work with them to have our jurisdiction become best in class.

“We don’t see that as a fixed position that we’ve achieved…this is just step one, our goal is to be completely removed from all of the list altogether…I said at the time to the EU and the OECD that the effects were quantifiable…and now

Bahamas: Agreement signed to help farmers to obtain loans

THE Bahamas Agricultural Industrial Cooperation (BAIC) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bank of the Bahamas yesterday to provide loan facilities to farmers that wish to expand their businesses and acquire land.

Leroy Major, chairman of the

BAIC, said the agreement will help aspiring entrepreneurs in the field to operate and noted that the agricultural organisation has signed agreements with the Bahamas Development Bank and The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) to achieve this goal.

He said: “Today, it is my esteemed pleasure to affix my signature to this memorandum of understanding with the Bank of the Bahamas limited as they join us in this quest to help aspiring entrepreneurs realise their dreams of owning and operating their own businesses.

those businesses can rest assured that they won’t be penalised for these islands being on the list.”

After being blacklisted in 2022 for deficiencies in the enforcement of Economic Substance requirements, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government doubled down on its efforts to improve the exchange of information; reframe a harmful foreign source income exemption regime, and ensure effective implementation of substance requirements.

Some of the actions undertaken by the Ministry of Finance included but were not limited to, the launching of the Economic Substance Portal, a comprehensive review of the legislation, training for industry stakeholders, the production of comprehensive guidance notes, and an overall strengthening of the processes and procedures that were adopted by the Financial Transaction Information Exchange Unit (“FTIE”) who has been tasked with the administration of the Companies and Limited Partnerships (Economic Substance) Ordinance.

Former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Investment and Trade, Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders

MoU signing between BAIC and the Bank of the Bahamas Limited at BAIC Headquarters

Vision 2040 document cited as inclusive, bi-partisan plan for the future

BY DELANA ISLES

An inclusive and visionary plan to launch the Turks and Caicos Islands into the future, as it pursues its quest for developed country status, has been formally laid before the nation.

The launch of the document – formally cited as the National Development Plan: Vision 2040 –was held on Friday, February 23, at the Shore Club in Long Bay, Providenciales.

Bringing remarks at the event were the Premier, Hon. Washington Misick, Governor HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Leader of the Opposition Hon. Edwin Astwood, former Deputy Premier Erwin Jay Saunders, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Athenee Harvey-Basden, representative for the private sector Drexwell Seymour.

Speaking to the audience of government officials, opposition members, private sector and other special invitees, the Premier acknowledged that the TCI is at a crossroads, and while the country has come a long way, it still has further to go.

“Vision 2040 is TCI’s plan for the future, it reflects our collective aspiration for the highest human development index that can be supported by the economic opportunities available to the TCI.

“Our goal of triple bottom line sustainability - economic, social, and ecological - will be achieved through a governance framework that optimises our natural resources, human capital, investment climate, development potential, and innovation and technology,” Misick stated.

He said the goals, dreams, and broad strategies have been agreed on by stakeholders, including the two major political parties and private sector stakeholders, and will guide the country’s development over the next fifteen to twenty years.

Vision 2040 demands high human capital development, equal access, more opportunities, increased security, a cleaner environment, and a more efficient

government, the Premier said.

Adding: “We will rest once the TCI can provide adequate education and training, highquality infrastructure, firstclass government services, full employment, quality healthcare, housing, and safe communities.”

As outlined in the document, which can be found at www.gov. tc the one overriding goal that characterises the vision being pursued over the period to 2040, can be framed as ‘A high quality of life enjoyed by citizens, residents and future generations’.

In his remarks, Seymour challenged the government to produce a public transportation plan to ease the congestion in Providenciales and to provide residents with a convenience that is common to many other countries in the world.

He also brought attention to the skills gap, stating that if the Turks and Caicos Islands wants to be a first-world country, it needs to start acting like one – educate its population and ensure they are in positions to succeed and thrive.

He said Islanders are finding it challenging to exist in their own country, and this needs to be addressed in the country’s vision for the future.

In his remarks, the Opposition Leader pointed out that the landscape of the TCI has changed dramatically in the past 40 years, as such when charting a course for the next 40, they need to think beyond the obvious and ensure that this development benefits all.

Astwood stated that the document belongs to the whole of TCI, irrespective of which party is in government, as it is the vehicle to create a thriving economy where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

He said: “The goal is to provide a supportive business climate for businesses large, small, local, or foreign. To create that prosperous future, we must invest in lifelong learning.

“To meet the goals articulated in Vision 2040, we need leadership that will work with all stakeholders to drive the process, deliver on

every promise, and meet every goal.”

He said the performance of the government should in the future be assessed on the achievements of the benchmarks set out in Vision 2040.

“The road to 2040 will require vision, sacrifice, hard work, discipline, determination, and most of all unity.

“The journey will have bumps and obstacles, but I believe that every Islander will rise to meet every challenge and find the will to create a competitive and prosperous Turks and Caicos Islands where every person will enjoy a high quality of life,” the party leader stated.

The Vision 2040 plan aims

to unite efforts in modernising the nation with a focus on vital areas such as education reform, economic growth, and infrastructure enhancement.

It is designed to provide TCI with a prosperous future through a comprehensive approach to infrastructure development to meet future demands.

Last Friday, the Vision 2040 Document – launched last week at the Shore Club – aims to unite efforts in modernising TCI with a focus on vital areas such as education reform, economic growth, and infrastructure enhancement. (TCIG photos)

Walkin withdraws candidacy for PNP leader

– cites disappointing party politics and fear of repercussions

BY DELANA ISLES

It was a hectic weekend for the Progressive National Party (PNP) going into and coming out of its convention weekend, drawing a sharp divide in its support base.

At the root of the controversy were the challenges for the leadership of the party, which saw three potential candidates throwing their hats in the ring in the run-up to the big event.

One of those contenders though, Jas Walkin, District Commissioner for North Caicos, withdrew his application for leader of the party.

In a letter to the National General Council (NGC), Walkin rescinded his candidacy, citing a warning by the Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service of possible disciplinary actions and his disappointment in the treatment he received when he made his intentions known to the Premier.

The warning by the Deputy Governor does have merit, as published in the Public Service Ordinance 24. (1), it states “An (public) officer shall not engage in campaigning on behalf of a

political party.

And in section (2): “An officer shall neither represent a political party nor be a candidate for political office.”

Walkin as District Commissioner is considered a public servant and would have had to resign to continue with his bid.

However, the main grouse that Walkin seemed to have with

having to withdraw, appeared to be those surrounding party politics.

This is evidenced in the statements he made to the NGC in his letter, which outlined: “Aware of the risks I pushed ahead and submitted my application. Shortly thereafter, I called the Leader of the Party and told him of my decision.

I knew it would disappoint him, but the love and respect I had for him

forced me to inform him personally.

“Immediately thereafter I heard a rumor that I had been removed as a delegate of the NGC by the leader (because I was one of his delegates since July 2017). Additionally, that information also brought into question the validity of my application.

“Whilst it was the right of the leader to remove me as one of his delegates, I was disappointed that he didn’t extend the same courtesy to me that extended to him and call me to let me know of his decision.”

Walkin said his decision to contest was not personal or to hurt the party, but rather was for love of country.

“My decision was made to try and save the party so we could then save the country. Because whether you want to admit it or not, the general consensus among the people of this country is ‘we are losing our country’.”

He said his decision to withdraw and retain his public service position was for the benefit of the people of North Caicos, who are counting on him.

“Firstly, I wish to say thank you

to my best friend and confidant Tueton Williams who convinced me in 2017 to give the PNP a chance and officially register as a member of this great party.

“Tueton, I know that I was not always the type of PNP you wanted me to be, but considering the circumstances I did my best.

“To Honourable Charles Washington Misick, thank you for adding me as one of your delegates of the NGC in 2017, and removing me at your convenience in 2024 - that speaks for itself,” Walkin stated.

He has also thanked Minister Arlington Chuck Musgrove, who he said kept his word to him to ensure he had employment at a dire period in his life.

“I will never ever forget your loyalty, gratitude and generosity to me.

“To the Progressive National Party, thank you for accepting me and giving me the opportunity to be your National Campaign Manager in the last general election.

“It was one of the greatest honors of my life, and I will cherish the memories both good and bad.”

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) welcomed nine experienced officers and two special constables into their ranks this week.

During an official ceremony, held at the Ethel Ingham Centre in Providenciales on Monday, February 26, the officers took their oaths, pledging to protect and serve

the residents and visitors of the Islands.

The nine officers are Alex Joseph, Michael Golding, Kimberly McKain, Travis Robinson, Prakash March, Delroy Green, Mitsy Davis-Skeen, Justus William and Everton Dunkley, while Kerri-Ann Sinclair and Bethsarah Watson-Green are the

Special Constables.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Rodney Adams, in administering the oath to the officers, called on them to adhere to policing principles and maintain their integrity at all times.

“Today begins an exciting journey as you join our ranks in serving and protecting our

community. Your decision to pursue a career in law enforcement speaks volumes about your dedication to public service, and we are honoured to have you on our team.”

Adams urged: “As you embark on this path, remember the importance of integrity, professionalism, and empathy in

every interaction. Our community entrusts us with their safety, and we must always uphold the highest standards of conduct.”

In attendance were the acting Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams, Assistant Commissioners of Police, Kendall Grant, Darron Williams and Mat Newton.

Jasmin Walkin, District Commissioner of North Caicos

Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force swears in 11 new cops (RTCIPF photo)

Make art not war!

Cultivating a non-violent mindset in our youth

As regular readers of this column know, I’ve often steered clear of divisive subjects, opting not to engage in the minutiae of daily politics - a task I gladly leave to others. However, as a concerned citizen witnessing the unfolding of events in our nation, silence is not always an option. And while the recent arrival of yet another boat from Haiti in Salt Cay was deeply troubling, it was the daylight murder of a young individual in the Nation’s Capital that truly shook me to my core. What stunned me further was the reaction it elicited: a resigned acceptance, with some even remarking, “This is what we’d expect in Provo, but not here.” Reflect on that statement for a moment. It reveals a troubling normalisation of violence, contingent on its proximity. When did we start accepting the “new normal” based on location, brushing off tragedies as long as they happen “elsewhere”? This attitude reflects a deeper societal malaise we must confront, challenging ourselves to question what we’ve come to accept and why. It’s time for us to reflect on our collective conscience and reconsider what we deem normal or acceptable, regardless of where it occurs.

In the wake of recent violence and gun-related deaths, we’ve grown accustomed to a certain pattern: politicians express shock and condolences. The Honourable Premier and Her Excellency the Governor appear together at a podium, later issuing a joint statement on tackling the issue. This response has become predictably

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.

routine. While it might be easy to criticise law enforcement in these situations, I consciously choose not to. Critiquing the police without understanding their challenges and experiences is unfair. Moreover, I have great respect for anyone who chooses to serve and protect their community, particularly those risking their lives for our safety.

We have recognised the problem; now, let’s delve into its causes and seek potential solutions. What drives gun-related fatalities in the Turks and Caicos Islands? Setting domestic disputes aside, the islands have in recent years been caught in the crosshairs of “transnational gang warfare”, according to a statement by a former Governor. This conflict is fuelled by drug trafficking, illegal

immigration, and, as seen in recent events, turf wars between local gangs. A traditional response to such violence has been to increase police presence on the streets. But does this truly address the root of the issue? Deploying more officers and enhancing their firepower might mitigate the symptoms temporarily, but it doesn’t tackle the underlying causes of the violence.

My proposal may surprise you: alongside equipping law enforcement with the necessary tools and leadership for effectiveness, we should also invest in hiring more art teachers. You might be sceptical, perhaps even questioning my sanity, but I ask you to consider my perspective. Many of our youth in the Turks and Caicos Islands

are experiencing a deep cultural identity crisis. It’s hard to fault them. Daily, they’re inundated with social media that glorifies violence and materialism, promoting a subculture alien to our country’s traditional values; values like family unity, respect for life, and humility, which seem to be fading in the shadow of platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

I believe that art education can play a pivotal role in addressing this crisis. Through art, young people can explore and connect with their cultural heritage, express themselves constructively, and develop a sense of belonging and identity that counters the negative influences of today’s digital age. So, before dismissing the idea, consider

the transformative power of art in rebuilding the fabric of our society and restoring the values we cherish. Art, with its profound evocative capacity, can emerge as a powerful countermeasure to violence. Evidence suggests that societies which underrate, or neglect artistic expression, often face higher rates of violence. Art transcends mere rationality, offering a peaceful alternative to expressing emotions that might otherwise manifest through violence. It provides a creative outlet for frustrations and anger, potentially reducing the inclination towards physical aggression. By channelling and giving meaning to chaotic emotions, art education can mitigate violent impulses, transforming them into expressive, constructive forms. In essence, art not only allows for the expression of what words or actions cannot but also re-directs potential violence into something meaningful and impactful.

In early February, I had the privilege of delivering an art lecture at a Grand Turk school to a group of third graders, alongside the local artist, Aysha Stephen. Our focus was on the tangible steps toward a career in art. Shortly after, a woman visited my gallery, presenting a painting her nine-year-old daughter had created, inspired by our talk. Titled “Old Grand Turk,” the artwork showcased remarkable talent and offered a glimpse of hope for the future. This experience reinforces my belief in the power of art to inspire and transform. Therefore, I advocate for a world where we choose to make art, not war.

“Old Grand Turk”, painted by a 9 year old primary school student, inspired by an art lecture. Artistic expression and creativity at its finest

The beautifully restored St John’s Anglican Church on Salt Cay. A monument to TCI tradition, history and family values

Local artist Aysha Stephen and Titus, with 3rd Grade students of the Ona Glinton Primary School on Grand Turk, following an art lecture

TCI’s first Special Needs Department launched

A new era of educational support and empowerment dawned for children with special needs in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday, February 22nd, as the Department of Special Education Needs Services was officially launched under the Ministry of Education.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in the educational landscape for the islands, signifying the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society where all children can thrive and reach their full potential.

With a vision to provide comprehensive and inclusive education for all children, the Department of Special Education

Needs Services aims to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education services tailored to their unique needs.

The department’s overarching goal is to establish a Special Needs Centre, a hub of support, resources, and expertise for individuals with special needs.

The launch event, which was attended by government officials, educators, parents, volunteers, and stakeholders, showcased the department’s dedication to providing a range of specialised services to meet the diverse needs of children with disabilities.

From behavioural therapy to speech therapy, IEP training for teachers, and annual therapy

camps, the department offers a holistic approach to support the development and well-being of children with special needs.

Speaking at the launch event, Dr Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, Director of the Department of Special Education Needs Services, emphasised the importance of collaboration and community engagement in ensuring the success of this initiative.

“Today marks the beginning of a journey towards a more inclusive and supportive educational system for all children in our islands,” she said.

Dr Malcolm-Gibbs stressed that the department is committed to working hand in hand with parents, educators, and stakeholders “to

create a nurturing environment where no one is left behind or overlooked”.

The Minister responsible for Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services, Hon Rachel M. Taylor, underscored the importance of the newly established department in advancing inclusive education in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

She explained that the upcoming specialised education school will provide tailored educational programs and resources for children with complex needs.”

Hon Taylor also commended the efforts of all involved in bringing this vision to fruition and reiterated the government’s longterm commitment to providing and enhancing educational

opportunities for all children, including those with special needs.

During its first year, the department will be strategically focused on building service capacity and has assembled a highly skilled and passionate team committed to making a lasting impact.

The Department will be operated by a core team that includes; Dr Anya Malcolm Gibbs Director; Lashaunda Dickenson SkippingsCoordinator of Assessments; Christina Joseph -Behavioural Analyst; Jamiliyah Jordan- Speech/ Language Pathologist; Paulette Simmons - Special Needs Teacher (SNAP) and Sheniqua Morgan -Assistant Special Needs Teacher (SNAP) (Olivia Rose)

Attendees at the launch of the Special Needs Department

HE Deputy Governor Anya Williams (centre), Minister of Education Hon Rachel Taylor and staff of the Department of Special Education Needs Services

The event was attended by Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick and other Cabinet members

Regional News

Bahamas: Demolition of 100 shanty homes begins

– Residents hurry to get personal items before structures destroyed

After years of government pledges to dismantle unregulated communities in Abaco, the Ministry of Works began demolishing more than 100 structures in the Gaza shanty town on the island this week.

Buildings Control Officer Craig Delancy said the demolition exercise started around 10am in the Gaza shanty town located near SC Bootle Highway. Bulldozers clamped down on buildings while residents watched their homes get torn to shreds.

On January 24, officials said they issued 28-day eviction notices to the shanty town residents in Gaza and the Gully. Mr Delancy said none of the structures had building permits, and none of the

residents living in the unregulated community owned the land.

“This morning (Tuesday), when we came in, we still found persons in the homes, and they were on the way of packing up,” Mr Delancy added. “And so, we gave them some time to remove all of the items they wish to move at this time.”

Residents waited until the last minute to remove their belongings because they anticipated the demolition wouldn’t happen.

On Facebook Live, Bishop Silbert Mills, a prominent Abaco resident, showed residents carrying their belongings in garbage bags.

At one point, he showed a man approaching an officer with his passport and other documents.

“You can see in the distance someone is coming back with garbage bags, a load of stuff they are retrieving last minute from their house,” he said.

Mr Delancy said there were over 120 structures in Gaza, some of which were unfinished or just starting to be built. He urged people in the two shanty towns called the Gully and the Farm to prepare to move as soon as possible.

“We’re just carrying out the mandate under the Buildings Regulation Act,” he said.

Officials are expected to move to the Gully and the Farm today for the ongoing demolition exercise.

Mr Delancy said most residents appeared to have housing accommodations.

Caribbean police search for missing couple after yacht hijacking

Police from two countries in the eastern Carib-bean are investigating the possible murder of two people believed to be US citizens who owned a catamaran that was hijacked by three fugitives in the waters off the island of Grenada.

The yacht’s alleged owners, Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry, were last seen Sunday night, when three men escaped from the custody of Grenadian authorities. Police in St. Vincent and the Grenadines captured the men on Wednesday.

The Royal Grenada Police Force said in a statement released on

Friday that preliminary information suggests the escaped prisoners had traveled from Grenada to St. Vincent and the Grenadines on a yacht. Investigators are now working on leads “that suggest that the two occupants of the yacht may have been killed in the process,” the statement said.

Authorities have yet to officially confirm Brandel and Hendry as the owners of the yacht, but the Salty Dawg Sailing Association, which the couple were members of, released a statement citing the couple as the owners.

That statement said a cruising

Two teenagers killed by gunmen in The Bahamas

Two teenagers are The Bahamas’ latest murder victims.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force reported the boys were in the backyard of a residence in New Providence when two gunmen entered the property just after 6 pm Monday and began shooting.

The first victim, aged 16, suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his upper torso. He tried to seek refuge inside the residence, where he later collapsed and died.

The second victim, aged 17, also

sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his body. He ran away from the assailants and his body was later found in a nearby building.

Their deaths took the country’s murder toll to 30.

Police are appealing to members of the public who may have any additional information to help solve this matter to contact 919/911, the Criminal Investigation Department at 5029991/2, or Crime Stoppers at 328TIPS (8477). (Loop News)

skipper had reported their yacht, Simplicity, abandoned off of the coast of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The person “found evidence of violence” on the boat, it said.

The organization noted the pair were seasoned sailors who had spent the winter sailing down the eastern coast of the U.S. into the Caribbean.

“This is a very upsetting event and details are still unconfirmed by the authorities, but this does appear to be a tragic event,” said Bob Osborn, the association’s president.

“Upon inspection, it was found

that the yacht had been ransacked, and it was apparent a violent act had taken place,” according to the Caribbean Safety and Security Net (CSSN), which collects and

disseminates information relating to crimes involving yachts in the region. “Copious amounts of blood were found in the master stateroom, and the two owners were missing.”

Andrew Newry (inset) drew his last breath just outside this house on Monday evening when he and another teen were shot and killed

Upset residents were seen gathering items up to the last minute at the Gaza shanty town in the area of Murphy Town, Abaco

The yacht’s alleged owners, Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry, were last seen Sunday night

Regional News

Antigua PM worried over CDB President’s administrative leave process

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne Wednesday said concerns have been raised about the method used to send the President of the Barbadosbased Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Dr Hyginus “Gene” Leon, on administrative leave since January.

The CDB has remained mum on the circumstances surrounding the decision to send the St Lucianborn economist on administrative leave, with the acting president Isaac Solomon, confirming at a bank news conference earlier this month that “there is an internal administrative process involving the president.

“The bank is extremely focused on preserving the independence, confidentiality and integrity of the process and as you can well appreciate in order for us to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the process, we are unable to provide any other details at this time,” Solomon said then.

Browne is attending the 46th regular meeting of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders where CARICOM chairman and Guyana President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali had indicated “yes leaders will be looking at the Caribbean Development Bank on the challenges we have”.

Bermuda launches first cancer national plan

The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre (BCHC) has welcomed the publication of the island’s first national plan to combat cancer through prevention, early detection and treatment, describing it as a “as “significant advancement in Bermuda’s healthcare landscape”.

“The Bermuda National Cancer Control Plan calls upon healthcare providers, government officials, NGOs, insurers, cancer survivors and the Bermudian populace to rally together in the battle against cancer.

“Embracing this plan propels Bermuda towards a brighter future, characterised by enhanced quality of life and a reduction in the toll taken by cancer,” said a BCHC spokeswoman.

Cancer accounts for about one third of all deaths on the island and BCHC medical director and clinical oncologist, Dr Chris Fosker, welcomed the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) for 2024-30.

“In Bermuda, the prevalence of lung, prostate, colorectal and breast cancers as leading causes of mortality underscore the need for a strategic and unified approach to combat this disease,” he said.

“The NCCP aims to harness the potential to prevent up to one third of cancer and cure another third through early detection and treatment.”

The plan was initiated in 2020 and it suggests a holistic approach, emphasising prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship and palliative care while advocating for collaboration across various sectors, including governmental bodies, non-governmental organisations and healthcare professionals.

Supported by the Ministry of Health, the NCCP aligns with the Bermuda Health Strategy 2022-2027 vision of fostering “healthy people in healthy communities” and promoting equitable access to health services.

The charity said the plan also aligns with global health objectives, and has received accolades and support from prominent international health organisations.

“The initial phase of the NCCP, released in April 2022, laid the groundwork by mapping out Bermuda’s cancer burden.

Today, we move forward with actionable goals, objectives and strategies aimed at lessening the impact of cancer,” said Dr Fosker adding “this work marks a transformative shift from identifying challenges to actively pursuing change, showcasing our dedication to revolutionising cancer care in Bermuda”.

The plan has been partly financed by the Chronic Disease Innovation Programme, overseen by the Bermuda Health Council. (Loop News)

Browne, speaking to reporters here on Wednesday, said “well it is a process that is taking place and there were concerns about the procedure that led to that process and at some point we will have to address the issue of the procedures and the fact that subordinates within an institution can literally take disciplinary action against their superior without even consulting with the directors or the governors of the bank.”

“I mean there is something fundamentally flawed about that and you would have seen two developments, not only the sending on leave or the institution of disciplinary action against the president but even prior to that when the race for the candidature was taking place between Leon and Professor Avinash (Persaud of Barbados) I recall that same whistle blower system was activated”

Browne told reporters by virtue of that “they practically would have eliminated Professor Avinash” and that the process “could be abused,” adding “we don’t know for a fact that it is being abused currently, but we have concerns it may have been abused and in that case we will have to make some changes.

“But I imagine that the investigation that is taking place will confirm whether or not the… suspended president is guilty of any malpractice within the bank or if he would have breached whatever rules and regulations.

“So I think we have to await the outcome of that investigation before we start to make the adjustments,” Browne said, noting “making too strident arguments about making adjustments against a system that may not be broken.

“On first blush I think the whole process is somewhat flawed and I am of the view that even if it may

be applicable to lower members of staff, certainly when it comes to the president there has to be some, at least notification, even out of decency to the directors and the governors”, he stated.

He said based on the issue “there could be some form of intervention at the level of the governors.

“So it is a process we will be hopefully reviewing in the future to ensure that we do not have a system that potentially can be abused and could be weaponised against future presidents of the bank or senior members of the bank,” Browne told reporters.

Grand Cayman shooting leaves seven seriously injured at football match

At least seven people have been injured after a gunman opened fire at a Cayman Islands Premier League football match.

Spectators at the game, including families with young children, fled for the exit as the shooter ran down the touchline and fired at several people in the crowd at the Ed Bush Stadium in West Bay.

One of the victims, who was shot three times, staggered into the tunnel and collapsed.

Witnesses described him calling out, “I’ve been shot, I’ve been shot, save me,” as a medic from one of the teams worked on him.

The shooting happened close to the changing rooms, just after 9pm, as the game between Elite SC and Academy paused for halftime.

Police confirmed that seven people were taken to hospital with what were described as “serious injuries” following the incident.

All seven were said to be in stable condition. The Compass understands no players involved in the game were among the injured.

“Initial reports suggest it was

Initial reports suggest it was a single shooter

a single shooter,” a 911 dispatch spokesperson told the Compass. No arrest had been made at press time Sunday and the scene had been cordoned off with the police helicopter circling.

Fans who witnessed the horrific ordeal first-hand recalled several loud pops in quick succession.

“There must’ve been 10 shots and everyone began running. I ran

into the tunnel,” one witness told the Compass.

“The guy who got shot in the back fell right into the tunnel. He was still conscious but he was bleeding very heavily.”

As panic and fear spread through the crowd, another witness recalled the medic from Elite SC rushing to help save the life of the man who had collapsed in the tunnel.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne

World News

Michael Gove investigated by Commons standards watchdog

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove has been placed under investigation by Parliament’s standards watchdog.

The probe relates to Mr Gove’s register of financial interests, according to the Standards Commissioner’s website.

There are no further details about the investigation, with these kept confidential until it concludes.

However, last week the Guardian reported Mr Gove had failed to register VIP hospitality at a football match with Conservative donor David Meller.

In August 2021, he was entertained at a Queens Park Rangers match with the businessman, according to the newspaper.

Mr Meller’s company, Meller Designs, was awarded six contracts for personal protective equipment (PPE) and hand sanitiser worth £164m after a referral from Mr Gove, who was then Cabinet Office minister, in 2020.

The standards commissioner is not thought to be investigating the contracts, just whether he registered the hospitality correctly.

A spokesperson for Mr Gove told The Guardian he “apologises for any oversight”.

“He has written to the relevant parliamentary authorities to inform them of a potential omission from the register of members’ financial interests regarding two complimentary tickets he received

The probe relates to Mr Gove’s register of financial interests, according to the Standards Commissioner’s website

from Queens Park Rangers Football Club to a match in August 2021,” the spokesperson said.

Under the MPs’ code of conduct, they must register gifts, benefits and hospitality over the value of £300.

Individuals under investigation are not allowed to discuss the allegations against them.

Asked about the probe in an interview with BBC Radio 2, Mr Gove said he was “bursting to say more about it” but was not able to because of Commons rules.

While he declined to comment on the standards commissioner’s investigation, he said all PPE

Oil spill spreads across Caribbean from Tobago to Bonaire

Oil leaking from a capsized barge off the coast of Tobago has spread hundreds of miles to reach the Caribbean island of Bonaire.

Officials on Bonaire, which is located 50 miles (80km) north of the Venezuelan coast, said the oil posed a “serious threat to both humans and nature”.

The island is the latest to have been contaminated with oil from the barge which ran aground earlier this month.

It is still unclear who owns the barge and what may have caused it to sink.

The authorities on Bonaire, which is a special municipality of the Netherlands, said the island’s east coast, including Sorobon, Lac and Lagun, had been polluted.

They also warned that the island’s mangrove, fish and coral ecosystems were at risk.

The oil leak was first spotted by the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard on 7 February. They traced it to a barge which had become lodged on a reef about 150m (500 ft) off Tobago’s southern coast.

There was no crew on board the barge and the Coast Guard said it had not received any distress signals. They did, however, spot the name “Gulfstream” painted on the side of the vessel.

Trinidad and Tobago authorities said the barge had originated in Panama and had been towed by a tugboat. They said it appeared “to have been bound for Guyana”.

An investigation conducted by

Cuba asks UN for help as food shortages worsen

Cuba’s government has for the first time asked the UN’s food programme for help as food shortages on the Communist-run island worsen.

contracts were awarded by civil servants “against an objective set of criteria”.

“No minister was involved in awarding PPE contracts,” he added.

Meanwhile, the commissioner has also opened an investigation into independent MP Andrew Bridgen.

It means seven MPs are currently under investigation.

The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, Daniel Greenberg, is responsible for investigating alleged breaches of the House of Commons Code of Conduct and registers of interests. (BBC)

The World Food Programme (WFP) said it had received an unprecedented official request from the Cuban government for help providing powdered milk to children under seven years of age.

The request is a sign of the seriousness of Cuba’s economic crisis.

As well as a shortage of milk, fuel and medicines are also running low.

The WFP confirmed to Spanish news agency Efe that it been approached by the Cuban government to “continue the monthly delivery of 1kg [35oz] of milk for girls and boys under

the age of seven throughout the country”.

The WFP said it had already started delivering milk powder to the island.

Powdered milk and other basic foods are provided to Cubans at a subsidised price through ration books, but delays and lack of supplies are common, especially at times of economic hardship.

The system was first introduced in 1962 by Cuban leader Fidel Castro after the United States imposed sanctions on the island, which exacerbated shortages.

The Cuban government continues to blame the ongoing US sanctions for the dire state of its economy but critics say government mismanagement is behind the current economic crisis - the worst in three decades.

The barge capsized off the shore of Tobago

online investigative journalism site Bellingcat suggests the barge stopped in late January in Pozuelos Bay, a Venezuelan port used by the state-owned PdVSA oil company.

According to Bellingcat, the barge may have started leaking oil as early as 3 February. The whereabouts of the boat which had

tugged the barge are not currently known.

The prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago declared a national emergency on 11 February. The country’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management has been trying to contain the spillage but oil has been continuing to leak

from the barge. The Trinidad and Tobago Weather Center said satellite images suggested the oil slick had spread into the marine area of Grenada as early as 14 February. From there, it appears to have been carried further westward to Bonaire.

The request is a sign of the seriousness of Cuba’s economic crisis

World News

Putin warns West against sending troops to Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned Western countries against sending troops to Ukraine.

The consequences of such a decision would be “tragic”, he said.

In his annual state of the nation address, President Putin accused the West of trying to drag Russia into an arms race.

At the same time, he said that Russia needed to strengthen its defences on its western border now that Sweden and Finland were joining Nato.

President Putin said the West “provoked” the conflict in Ukraine and “continues to lie, without any embarrassment, saying that Russia allegedly intends to attack Europe”.

Probably referring to comments by French President Emmanuel Macron earlier this week that sending Nato ground troops to Ukraine “could not be excluded”, President Putin said: “The consequences for possible interventionists will be... tragic.”

“We also have weapons that can hit targets on their territory,” he added.

“All this really threatens a conflict with the use of nuclear weapons and the destruction of civilisation. Don’t they get that?”

Several Nato countries,

The West “provoked” the conflict in Ukraine, President Putin said

including the US, Germany and the UK, ruled out deploying ground troops to Ukraine.

President Putin also boasted about Russia’s sophisticated weapons - like hypersonic aircraft and unmanned underwater vehicles - and said that Russia’s strategic nuclear forces are in a “state of full readiness”.

Notably, President Putin explicitly referred to the two years of fighting in Ukraine as a “war”, despite his repeated insistence

More than 100 Palestinians killed waits for aid, Hamas-run health ministry says

More than 100 Palestinians are reported to have been killed while waiting for aid to be delivered in northern Gaza.

The Hamas-run health ministry blamed Israeli forces, and Palestinian media cited medical sources saying Israeli troops fired at the crowd.

An Israeli military source said troops opened fire as they believed soldiers were in danger.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said dozens of Palestinians were killed being trampled and run over by lorries.

A journalist who was at the scene told the BBC that Israeli tanks fired on a crowd who had come to get supplies. The Israeli military said it had no knowledge of shelling in the area.

Graphic videos posted on social media show bodies loaded onto

emptied aid lorries and a donkey cart near Nabulsi roundabout on Rashid Street, the coastal road west of Gaza City.

It happened hours before Gaza’s health ministry announced that more than 30,000 people, including 21,000 children and women, had been confirmed killed since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas.

Some 7,000 others have been reported as missing and 70,450 have been treated for injuries over the past four months, according to the ministry.

The UN is also warning of a looming famine in the north of the territory, where an estimated 300,000 people are living with little food or clean water.

The Israeli military launched a large-scale air and ground campaign to destroy Hamas -

that Russia’s invasion should be described as a “special military operation”.

He said that an “absolute majority” of Russians supported his decision to invade Ukraine, and that the Russian people were now united against what he called Western attempts to weaken the country.

He also hit out at accusations from the US that Russia is developing nuclear weapons for use against satellites in space.

The speech came just over two weeks before Russia’s presidential election, in which President Putin is widely expected to win a fifth term in office.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the address could “to a large degree be seen as [Putin’s] election programme”.

Indeed, much of the address focused on domestic issues ranging from the modernisation of the tax system to pensions and incentives aimed at boosting Russia’s

dwindling birth rate.

He also talked about the need to improve the health of the nation, announcing a series of measures aimed at boosting Russia’s life expectancy, which at 70 is currently one of the lowest in Europe.

Urging people to focus on physical activity and cut down alcohol consumption, he joked: “Stop drinking and start skiing!”

The speech lasted a record two hours and was attended by all senior politicians, the CEOs of oil and gas firms Rosneft and Gazprom, as well as religious leaders of all denominations.

It was broadcast on giant screens across Moscow, and several cinemas in Russian cities reportedly screened it free of charge.

As expected, there was no mention of the death of Alexei Navalny, the opposition leader who died in a Siberian penal colony two weeks ago and who many saw as President Putin’s greatest opponent.

Navalny, who will be buried in Moscow on Friday, died under circumstances yet to be fully established on 16 February. His widow Yulia has insisted that President Putin was responsible. (BBC)

which is proscribed as a terrorist organisation by Israel, the UK and others - after its gunmen killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel on 7 October and took 253 other people back to Gaza as hostages.

Health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said 104 people were killed and 760 others wounded at the Nabulsi roundabout early on Thursday morning, and blamed Israeli forces for what he described as a “massacre”.

He warned that dozens of casualties in a critical or severe condition had been brought to the nearby al-Shifa Hospital, in Gaza

City, and that medics there were unable to cope with the volume and severity of cases.

The director of the Kamal Adwan hospital in the northern town of Beit Lahia, Hussam Abu Safieyah, told Reuters that it had received the bodies of 10 people and dozens of wounded from western Gaza City. “We don’t know how many there are in other hospitals,” he added.

Paramedic Fares Afana also told the Associated Press that ambulance crews had found “dozens or hundreds” lying on the ground at the scene. He said some of the dead and wounded were

being transported to hospitals on donkey carts because there were not enough ambulances.

The official Palestinian news agency, Wafa, cited medical sources as saying that Israeli forces fired towards thousands of people from Gaza City and other northern areas as they waited at Nabulsi roundabout for the arrival of lorries loaded with humanitarian aid.

At al-Shifa Hospital, one man who was cradling the body of this dead friend, Tamer Shinbari, told the BBC he had gone to Nabulsi roundabout hoping to get a bag of flour for his family who are sheltering in schools in Jabalia.

Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia said it had received dead and wounded from western Gaza City

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF TURK AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS

FIRST PUBLICATION

In accordance with section 6(1) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance, notice is hereby given that the following persons have made applications in 2023 for the grant of Islander Status under section 5(1)(b) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance.

Alain Francois Alexandre Wattiez, married to Olga Kudrytska Wattiez, of Talence, France, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Geraldine Elisabeth Burtschi, spinster, of Switzerland, a British Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales

Willy Serrano Reynoso, married to Jahaira Taveras Trinidad, father of 2 children, of Dominican Republic, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Savanna Alexis Geno Barker, spinster of Canada, a British Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Martime Doccy, spinster, of Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Shelta Romulus, spinster, of Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Wydney Mompremier, bachelor, of Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Grand Turk.

Rosemene Joseph, spinster, of Cap Haitian, Haiti, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Juan Antonio Ferreira Simon, married to Ana Brito De Ferreira, father of 1 child, of Imbert, Dominican Republic, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

John Esper, married to Kimberly Ann Esper, father of 4 children of Lebanon, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in, Providenciales.

Job Julien, married to Gessika Antoinette Julien Charles, father of 2 children, of Limbe, Haiti, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Leshaun Lauren Wendella Charles, spinster, of Georgetown, Guyana, a British Overseas Territories Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

DOMESTIC

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-5003

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-242-0012

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers.

Salary: $12.00 Hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER LABOURER

MICHAELLE JANVIER

Millennium Highway / Tel: 348-1906

Caring for my son, bath and feed him, dress him, change his diaper, light cleaning around the house. $8.00

KT’S CONSTRUCTION

CHARLES’S EQUIPMENT RENTAL

Five Cays / 232-0637

Cleaning equipment rentals, pick up waste, and keep property clean. $8.00

LABOURER GARDENER

North Caicos / 243-6860

ELIE’S LANDSCAPING SERVICES

Millennium Highway / 232-7124

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 649-332-5690 41354

Carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work, painting apartment interior & exterior and assist with construction work site.

Soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting. $8.00

CONTACT: 247-4924 BELONGERS ONLY APPLY / RENEWAL 41294

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF TURK AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS

FIRST PUBLICATION CONTINUED

Renald Julien, bachelor, of Turks and Caicos Islands, father of 1 child a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Philomise Joseph, spinster, of Cap Haitian, Haiti, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Arayih Tamara Wildish, spinster, of Florida, United States of America, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Achsah Blessings Wildish, spinster, of Florida, United States of America, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Carol Anne Wildish, married John Wildish, mother of 2 Children of St. Andrew, Jamaica, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

John David Wildish, married to Carol Anne Wildish, father of 2 children, of Kingston, Jamaica, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Lanie Rock Jean Baptiste, married to Joseph Ifores Jn Baptiste, mother of 2 Children of Cap Haitian, Haiti, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Grand Turk.

Ralph Gershon Carmichael, married to Adelina Althea Carmichael, father of 4 children, of Georgetown, Guyana, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Providenciales.

Carol Ducleron Michel, married to Albin Michel, mother of 2 Children of Cap Haitian, Haiti, a British Overseas Territory Citizen and ordinarily resident in Grand Turk.

DIEULA JEAN BAPTISTE SEYMOUR

DION RICARDO PRATT

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 332-3096

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41324

RIGBY

Salary: $9.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-9741

Clean pools and pour chlorine in pools.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5250/ 341-8332

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41350

Bay

CONTACT:

CONTACT: 649-342-7954

BELONGERS

Duties include off loading and storing material, cleaning site, tool and any other task given by employer etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 341-5567

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41366

RUDOLPH

Caring for children inside and outside the home. Preparing meals and doing housework.

Salary: $8.50 per hour

CONTACT: 333-0875

BELONGERS

Salary:

CONTACT:

Cleaning outside the property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

materials on floors, walls, ceilings, countertops. Level the surface with a layer of mortar or plywood.

Salary: $10 hourly

Drill holes, or cut molding and grooves in stone. $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 342-1964

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 649-243-7156 41362

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41336

CONTACT: 341-3579

SHAPAN

Uphold customer service

Maintain Bar Mix and serve drinks

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-2397

BELONGERS

Selling

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary:

CONTACT: 232-7836

BELONGERS

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-344-8428

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A

OF THEIR

TO THE

41314

3.

5.

an experienced instructor to teach all aspects of kiteboarding, Wing foiling and Efoiling for our resort, ensuring all safety protocols and guest satisfaction. This includes providing lessons, communications with guests prior and during lessons and maintaining the equipment assets, accounting for guest/client billings and ensuring the operation runs well. To be successful in this role, the applicant must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience as a kiteboarding and Wing foil instructor. Be an excellent communicator in English and a second language is a plus. Must be IKO, PASA or equivalent certified. Boat operators’ experience is important and other guiding or tour operator experience is desired. Expected to work long hours. The salary is $12.50 hourly plus commissions on rentals and lessons and service fee. Position for a work permit holder or Belongers. THE PINNACLE BEACH ATTENDANT RESUMES CAN EMAILED TO MANAGER@PINNACLEONGRACEBAY.COM STARTING WAGES $9.-$10.PER HOUR 40868 Candidates must be English speaking, have an outgoing friendly personality and be able to physically move and stack lounge chairs. IS INTERVIEWING FOR: BETHANY’S EDUCATIONAL & SOCIAL TRAINING (B.E.S.T.) INSTITUTE, INC. DOMESTIC WORKERS APPLICATION CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT B.E.S.T. INSTITUTE OFFICE, 250 BAY ROAD, BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES. OR EMAIL@: BESTINSTITUTE@TCIWAY.TC; BESTINSTITUTE@OUTLOOK.COM COPY ALL ENQUIRES TO THE LABOUR BOARD, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. TEL: 649-941-4802 CELL; 649-231-4802 41257 The individual should meet the following requirements:

GERALDINE BURTSCHI

The Bight,Provo TCI

Contact# 649-442-2424

$8.00 p/h

READY

#2 Parade Ave.

Butterfield Sq, Provo

$8.50 p/h Tel: 964-8583

workers who prepare food and beverages.

are looking for

KITEBOARD & WINGFOIL INSTRUCTOR ALL QUALIFIED BELONGERS SHOULD SEND RESUME TO JULIE@H2ORESORTTCI.COM 41182

Iwájú: Nigerian Disney show flawed but delightful - critics

The reviews are in - critics say new Disney+ show Iwájú has “top-notch” animation, “stellar voice acting” and is a “delightful” depiction of a futuristic Nigeria.

Although some critics say Iwájú is flawed, they also point to the inventiveness of the series, which reportedly marks the first time the Disney+ streaming platform has collaborated with an external production company.

The company in question is Kugali, an outfit led by three friends from Nigeria and Uganda who want to boost the representation of African animation and graphic novels.

Iwájú, their newest creation, centres on Tola, a young girl navigating a sci-fi version of Nigerian megacity Lagos. Luxury cars fly over the city’s markets, supervillains are armed with bionic arms and AI pets are a must-have item.

The six-part series features Nigerian Pidgin - a mix of English and local languages -and all

characters are voiced by actors from the West African country.

After the series was launched on Wednesday, UK newspaper the Guardian gave it a four-star rating, calling it a “delightful comingof-age adventure” that is “an encouraging step into a bold and brilliant future”.

However, the review also notes that Iwájú was “frantically paced and hard to follow”.

US entertainment site Screengrab also criticised the show’s pacing, as well as its character development.

But “top-notch animation” distracts from these issues, it says.

Screengrab awarded Iwájú three-and-a-half stars, saying: “The exploration of economic inequality through its characters is multifaceted.

“Not everyone is able to utilize the same amount of technology, something touched upon by the show’s story.”

Despite Iwájú receiving largely

Rapper Ja Rule denied UK entry ahead of Cardiff gig

Rapper Ja Rule has said he has been denied entry into the UK, days before his tour was due to start in Cardiff.

The US musician, real name Jeffrey Bruce Atkins Sr, was due to kick off the British leg of his Sunrise tour at the city’s Utilita Arena on Friday.

The 47-year-old said his criminal record was the reason behind the refusal.

He was also due to play gigs in London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds and Liverpool.

Best known for hits such as Always On Time, featuring Ashanti, and Thug Lovin’, he wrote on social media: “I’m so devastated - I can’t believe the UK

won’t let me in.

“I’ve spent a half million dollars of my own money to put this tour together only to be denied entry days before my shows.

“This is not fair to me or my fans - these venues are 85% sold out and now I can’t come.”

Ja Rule, who was released from prison in May 2013 after serving two years on gun possession and tax evasion charges, added: “The UK is one of the few European countries that restricts entry to people with criminal records.

“In general you will likely be denied entry if you have been convicted of a crime punishable by 23 months or more under British law, or if you’ve served more than

positive reviews from critics, several Nigerians have complained on social media that although the show focuses on Nigeria, they cannot watch it as Disney+ is not available in their country.

“Disney really isn’t serious though. Iwájú’s dropping in like five days and Disney+ still isn’t available to us,” a user on social media platform X wrote prior to the show’s release.

After initially announcing that Iwájú would stream exclusively on Disney+, the company said Nigerians who subscribe to DSTV would be able to watch the show on the Disney Channel, where it will air in late April and early May, Nigerian media reports say.

In other reviews, ABC News in Australia says: “Iwájú is both uniquely African, and yet universal in its appeal... every intricate detail has been thought of.” Elsewhere, US news website Mashable says the “gorgeous” show “dreams up some seriously covetable gadgets”.

Westlife star to step back amid health issues

Mark Feehily of Westlife has announced he is to step back from the band and will not be joining them for their upcoming tour due to ongoing health issues.

The 43-year-old singer recently underwent surgery to treat a hernia and said he was also treated for sepsis during a Covid lockdown in August 2020.

Feehily said his hernia surgery was a success but he has been advised to take time to recover and not go back on tour with Westlife.

Westlife are currently preparing for their US tour and they will play Canada, the USA, Mexico and Brazil.

The multi-award winning Irish boyband have 14 UK number one singles to their name and have amassed seven top-selling albums during their career.

They are known for hits including Flying Without Wings, Fool Again and Unbreakable,

among many others.

FEEHILY TELLS OF TURBULENT JOURNEY

In his post on social media, Feehily said: “Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while.

“It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual.”

He also paid tribute to his Westlife bandmates and the medical staff in his post.

“To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you’ll knock it out of the park,” he said.

“To all the medical staff who held my hand and kept my spirit lifted (you know who you are!) my heartfelt thanks goes out to each and every one of you.” (BBC)

The 47-year-old said his criminal record was

12 months in prison.”

Tickets for the shows are still available on Ticketmaster.

Mark Feehily says he underwent surgery to treat a hernia and was also treated for sepsis during the Covid lockdown in August 2020

Iwájú follows the adventures of a young girl growing up in a futuristic version of Lagos

Maranatha Academy and Holy Family Academy into final round – LGT high school finishes third in Fortis Science debate

The annual FortisTCI National High School Science Debate recently concluded its preliminary and semi-final rounds with the Maranatha Academy and Holy Family Academy copping the two finalist spots.

The initial rounds of the competition were held from February 20 to 22, 2024, and

according to reports, the results are reminiscent of last year’s event; that is, the same two schools that intensely competed for the championship title last year, are back for round two this year.

They will face off on Wednesday, March 6 at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex in Providenciales. The debate begins

Holy Family Academy will advance to the final round of the competition

at 1:30 p.m.

The moot: ‘Whether AIpowered large language learning models such as ChatGPT do more harm than good’.

Meanwhile, ten high schools

competed in the preliminaries, with six of those schools winning their debates and progressing to the semifinals.

The semifinals recorded razorthin differences in scores. Holy

Family Academy debated against the moot that gene therapy holds the key to the future of disease prevention and treatment more than CONTINUED  34

On March 6, students from Maranatha Academy will compete against Holy Family Academy (Photos courtesy: FortisTCI)

Maranatha Academy and Holy Family Academy ...

CONTINUED FROM  32

other medical treatments. They scored 142 points against Marjorie Basden High School’s 125 points.

Maranatha Academy debated against the moot that biometrics are a force for good and secured 138 points against Clement Howell High School with 137 points.

The Louise Garland Thomas

(LGT) High School debated on the negative stance of the moot that solar energy provides an easy pathway to energy security. They secured 136 points against Precious Treasures with 135 points.

The Louise Garland Thomas High School has officially secured third place in the debate.

For the finals, which is also expected to be a fierce competition, all members of the public are invited to come out to support and encourage the students.

FortisTCI has extended thanks to all those who showed up to support, lent their assistance and sat as judges in the competition thus far.

Kanye West, now known as Ye, is best known for hits such as Gold Digger and Stronger

Kanye West: Rapper Ye sued by Donna Summer’s estate over copyright

Kanye West is being sued by Donna Summer’s estate for allegedly using an uncleared sample of her music on his new album.

Court documents show that the Queen of Disco’s estate denied Kanye’s request to sample the 1977 hit I Feel Love.

West has become a controversial figure in recent years - comments he has made have been heavily

criticised as far right or antisemitic.

The rapper has not yet commented on the legal action taken by Summer’s estate.

A sample of I Feel Love was used on his track Good (Don’t Die).

The song appeared on his album Vultures 1 earlier this month, but has since been removed from streaming services.

AUTO SALES

REAL ESTATE

RAY EVIN GARDINER

#42 Borris Ave., South

Cleaning

CONTACT:

649-241-9388

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board

A skilled worker that can undertake any job as a helper by profession.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

ANGELO ELYSSE

APPOLON

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-6787

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 247-1826

Must have at least 5 years of experience

Salary $10 per hour

Duties: prepare/install

CONTACT: 347-3630

CONTACT: 348-9646

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 244-5638 41321

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT:

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.

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: (649) 241-6461 41309

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

41353

( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

Take notice that I, Nigel Dakin, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Josephina Custodio De Higgs by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

Cleaning

Salary:

CONTACT: 247-0071

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 649-442-3363

ASHWOOD

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Cares for garden.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

RECEIVING

Must be proficient in logistics, inventory management. $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 232-4595

BARNIE’S

Fix and maintain equipment and buildings. Plumbing, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, etc.

Salary: $8.50 hourly

CONTACT: 331-5907

Assists in keeping a restaurant, and bar clean and sanitary, assists in cleaning dishes, and tends to customers' needs.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-9399

CONTACT:

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-1449

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT:

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 231-1620 41199

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41210

Take orders and serve food and beverages.

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 246-7860

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Make Jewelry such as necklace, bracelets etc. Must be willing to work 6 days per week

Salary: $8.50 per hour

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41277

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

41189

CAICOS UPHOLSTERY SERVICES/ PRISCILLA

Cleaning

Salary:

CONTACT: 241-5922

CONTACT: 242-9633

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 243-8574 41230

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

IS INTERVIEWING FOR AN ADDITIONAL :

RESERVATIONS AGENT

Candidates must be personable, and customer service oriented. Requires Strong English(verbal and written) communication skills and Computer Experience (Typing/Word/Excel)

Hotel Front Desk or Concierge experience mandatory.

Salary and Bonus Package determined by qualifications and experience

Resumes should be emailed to dpapke@portsofcallresort.com

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POSITIONS

MONITOR/TEACHERS’ ASSISTANT QUALIFICATIONS:

Degree or Certificate from reputable institution; Minimum of 3-5years teaching experience in primary and/or secondary education. Experience with Christian education curriculum.

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualified applicants for all positions must be a born-again Christian, active in their church, known to their Pastor and believe in the work of the Holy Spirit; Must be of good moral character and reputation; Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to adapt to a flexible working environment; Must be enthusiastic and creative with an excellent work ethic, and a willingness to build character and Christian values in students

Please submit resume and three references with telephone numbers and addresses including one from current Pastor. Salary packages start at - $1,400.00 per month

Positions are held by work permit holders. Interested islanders should submit copy of resume to the Labor Board.

No phone calls please

apply

VACANCY: FIELD ENGINEER

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF THE JOB:

• Responsible for the operation and maintenance of all RBS, Power and Transmission equipment within a specific region to achieve 100% availability of all Cell Sites

• Monitoring of all environmental factors, buildings and grounds to include earth connections and measurements at Digicel sites in a specific region

• Escalation & follow through of all anomalies to relevant departments

• Scheduling of preventative maintenance rosters

• Coordination of all site related work and projects

• Coordination with MSC & Transmission engineer on outage solutions

• On-call support for after hours outages & planned works as required

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain inventory of RBS, Test and Transmission equipment

• Monitor Return & Replace process, tracking RMA number & return date with Ericsson

• Oversee generator maintenance

• Liaise with equipment suppliers and maintenance contractors as required

• Generate & submit Planned Works for service affecting network activity in a timely manner

• Provide feedback on network performance as observed in day to day activities to MSC engineers

• Assist other departments with troubleshooting & engineering support as required

• Provide callout function & network support as required

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR JOB:

• Diploma in telecommunications/electronics or equivalent

• Minimum one (1) year experience in maintenance of telecommunications network

• Detailed working knowledge of Microwave transmission systems, radio transmitters

• Detailed working knowledge of DC and AC power systems

• Detailed working knowledge of GSM radio telephony operations

• Detailed working knowledge of associated test equipment

Functional Skills:

• Good interpersonal and communication skills

• Excellent leadership skills/qualities,

• Ability to work unsupervised and handle multiple priority assignments simultaneously

DEADLINE:

Positions open to all qualified Turks and Caicos nationals. Salary ranges from 49000-55000 per annum. Interested applicants can forward their resumes to hrtci@digicelgroup.com and the Immigration board. The closing date for applications is March 4th 2024

Is seeking to fill the following positions:

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

• Maintains the day-to-day operations of the office.

• Schedule meetings and appointments.

• Professionally communicate with clients, vendors, laborers, and management.

• Employee time-tracking and scheduling.

• Perform bookkeeping duties.

• filing and record keeping tasks.

SKILLS/ QUALIFICATIONS/ COMPETENCIES:

• Associate Degree or High School Diploma with at least 3 - 5 years of working in an office environment.

• QuickBooks proficiency.

LANDSCAPE SUPERVISOR

• Oversee a team for landscape, irrigation and pool repair.

• Coordinating procurement and use of resources such as labor, equipment, and materials.

• Communicate with clients to discuss project goals and expectations.

• Perform audits of properties.

• Plant and tree installations, irrigation tasks, trimming, mowing, pool maintenance. etc.

SKILLS/ QUALIFICATIONS/ COMPETENCIES:

3-5 years supervisory experience in the field.

Knowledgeable in plant/tree identification, pest control, and fertilization.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Police Record/Driver’s License

• Qualified belongers are encouraged to apply.

• Ability to speak Creole an asset.

Salaries commensurate with experience.

$8.00

$8.00

Cleaning properties, pick up and

dispose of waste and ensure properties remain clean

DESROULEAUX ma 442-7240

Kew Town

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Cleaning the house, making beds, wash dishes clean the kitchen, bathroom and ensure

NEW STYLE BEAUTY SALON & BOUTIQUE

Millennium Highway 331-8154

HAIR DRESSER

$9.00

Braiding men and hair, box braid, pony tail, twist, knotless

GIOVANI HANS EYMA

South In Five Cays BABYSITTER

241-6008

Caring for my 3 children, wash, cook, monitor them and light house keeping

MARIE MONIQUE TOUSSAINT

PIERRE

Wheeland 341-7287

DOMESTIC WORKER

Caring for myself, wash, iron, cook and clean my home

v VACANCIES

CLIMATECH

Industrial Park, Provo, 231-4545

LABOURER $9.00 p/h

Performing manual tasks, loading equipment and replenishing stock and materials.

GLORY GROCERY STORE & SALON

GENERAL WORKER $8.00 p/h 348-8986

Maintain work shop in a clean and orderly manner.

POSEIDON CHARTERS

Regent Villa, Grace Bay 649-232-3633

YACHT CAPTAIN

$1,000.00 per week

Ensure the safety of passengers, understanding of water condition

ENITE BEEN

South D, Road

649-341-0160

LABOURER $8.00 p/h

Cleaning outside the property.

DIANA L. WILSON

Leeward Highway 649-242-5886

BABYSITTER $8.00 p/h

Provides care to children

JOURNALIST

We are seeking a skilled and motivated journalist to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for reviewing, updating, and creating new articles and content for Visit Turks and Caicos Islands. Excellent command of the English language, along with photography skills, are a requirement and form the foundation for this role.

All candidates must provide examples of work (text and photography) published in a recognized newspaper, journal, magazine, or similar venue.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Proactively reviewing, updating and creating new articles for VisitTCI.com.

• Managing social media channels.

• Keeping updated of changes affecting the tourism industry, such as new and closing businesses, changing regulations, and more.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a fluent, native level of English.

• Plus if candidate can speak French or Spanish (second most popular languages on our website, inquiries are received in both languages).

• Minimum 5 years in a journalism, writing, content creation, or a similar field.

• Bachelor or master’s degree in Journalism or a related field.

• Must be a competent photographer.

• Should have a basic knowledge of HTML (articles are published in a HTMLlike format).

• Good knowledge with Microsoft Office (Word and Excel).

• Good knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud (minimum Lightroom, Photoshop and Premiere).

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.

• Must be comfortable in and around water and have a PADI Open Water diving qualification (or similar).

• Driver’s license.

REMUNERATION

Salary is $52,800 per annum. This is a full-time, in-person position at our Grace Bay office.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Send an email with CV, proof of required qualifications, and published/sample work (including photography) to jobs@visittci.com

Only persons with relevant work experience and skills will be considered. Islanders should send copies to the Labour Board. Application deadline is 11 March 2024.

41141

41069

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Flamingo Park, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island, British West Indies. Tel: 649 333 5638

Email Toby Barkworth-Knight, Director: toby.bk@provoprimary.com

Website www.provoprimary.com

At Providenciales Primary School we believe in the delivery of a practical, hands on and truly play-based approach to learning

Our Early Years has been described by the TCI’s Education Department as a “Model of Excellence.”

We are pleased to be expanding our staffing this Spring, to accommodate growing pupil numbers.

Are you interested in joining our team?

We require a Teaching Assistant to work in our youngest classes, caring for our 2–4-year-old students. Initially for this summer term, we hope to retain this position into the new academic year.

This role can be part time (5 mornings per week 8am – 1pm) or full time (8am – 3:15pm).

This role would be ideal for someone wishing to gain experience in an Early Years or lower primary setting.

Your responsibilities will include supporting the classroom teacher in their care for, preparation and teaching a class of Early Years age children

Applicants may have experience working in an Early Years environment and/or hold an Early Childhood Certificate. At this time, we would consider applicants enrolled on an Early Childhood Education programme. This position would provide an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to increase their experience within the Early Childhood Education f

Salary range is commensurate with experience, posts of responsibility and qualification from $19,000 – 24,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week). We invite prospective applicants who are Turks Islanders to send copies of their applications to Providenciales Primary School for shortlisting.

The RSA is responsible for negotiating prices, liaising with clients, and organizing remote client meetings.

The RSA serves as the face of the rental agency, offering personalized service to ensure a smooth and satisfactory rental experience for each customer. This role involves a blend of customer service and sales, aiming to meet clients’ needs while also promoting additional services and products that align with their requirements. By understanding the diverse demands of travelers, from business professionals to vacationing families. Effective communication and a keen attention to detail are essential, as the agent navigates agreements, processes payments, and coordinates with the vehicle preparation team to guarantee that each car is ready for its next journey. The RSA plays a significant role in facilitating mobility and creating positive impressions that encourage customer loyalty and repeat business.

• Explain rental terms, policies, and procedures to all agents, including insurance options and any additional services offered.

• Perform vehicle inspections before and after rental to document any existing damages and ensure the car’s condition is accurately recorded.

• Coordinate with the maintenance team to ensure all vehicles are clean, fueled, and ready for customer use.

• Manage reservations, including scheduling, modifications, and cancellations, using the company’s reservation system.

• Handle customer complaints and issues, providing solutions that align with company policies while ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Conduct inventory management tasks, such as tracking vehicle availability, and coordinating with other locations to transfer vehicles as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Supply with demand by coordinating bookings to ensure vehicles are available when and where customers need them. Use software and engage in customer interactions to modify, confirm, or cancel reservations, optimizing fleet utilization and maintaining a seamless rental experience.

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION ( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

Take notice that I, Nigel Dakin, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Tanya Dawn Northeast-Been by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER

#30 Neptune Plaza, Providenciales TCI0. Is seeking to employ a

NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST/

PSYCHOLOGIST

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a degree in Psychology and Neuropsychology from an accredited University,

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a clinic, laboratories, university, hospital, mental health facilities, or research

• Minimum of 5 years as a fully registered clinical psychologist on a recognized Medical Board.

• Proficient with planning and performing psychological interventions.

MAIN DUTIES

• Knowledge of human behavior, performance; individual ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders,

• Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, and cultures and their history and origins

• Counsels’ clients and patients, individually and in group sessions,

• running cognitive tests of patients, evaluating patient needs and diagnosing and treating brain-based disorders

• Evaluates clients physical or mental condition based on review of client information and monitoring for safety in a restrictive environment

• Develops and implements treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge, Measuring the effectiveness of interventions and implementing changes where required

• Updating and maintaining patients EMR files, maintains confidentiality of records relating to client’s treatment

• Liaise with other healthcare professionals and hospitals

• Making assessments and interpretations based on biopsychosocial evaluations, psychometric tests, semi-structured interviews, therapy sessions, and neuropsychological assessments.

• Bi-lingual is preferred

Monthly salary $7000.00. Belongers only need to apply.

MAITRE D NEEDED

$600.00 weekly

• Must have a minimum of 5 years’ fine dining experience.

• Must be able to work 6 nights weekly and holidays.

• Will oversee guest flow, manage reservations and liaise between staff.

• Renewal Belongers only apply Deadline: March 15th, 2023

behalf of LORINCE DEVIS MICHEL

Blue Hills, 343-6587

BABY SITTER

- $8.00 Hourly Ensuring a safe environment, preparing meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework.

SUNSHINE TRUCKING South Dock Rd.

348-3770

DRIVER

- $450.00 Weekly Transport materials and goods among manufacturing, distribution and retail centers.

Belongers only apply

Renewal

41348

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a minimum of M.B.B.S., Medical Doctor Degree from an accredited University, Relevant training and/or certifications as an Ophthalmologist

• Minimum of 5 years work experience and specialize in the surgical and medical treatment of eye diseases and injuries

• Must have a minimum of 5 years as a fully registered Medical Practitioner on a register of a recognized Medical Board.

MAIN DUTIES

• Carry out patient consultations in the Clinic

• Diagnose, treat and prevent disorders of the eyes and visual system, using medical and surgical skills

• Providing comprehensive eye care, routine vision testing and prescribing glasses and contact lenses

• Performing corrective surgeries, such as repairing injuries and corneas and removing cataracts

• Manage acute and chronic illnesses

• Order laboratory and diagnostic tests

• Perform minor procedures

• Be proactive with patient health education

• Work with a multidisciplinary team, including other doctors and staff

• Expected to be part of practice management and administration

• Liaise with other healthcare professionals and/or hospitals

• Computer knowledge – experience using EMR files

• Bi-lingual will be an asset

Monthly salary $4,500.00 depending on experience. Belongers only need to apply.

DIAGNOSTIC MECHANIC SPECIALIST

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

♣ Diagnoses and repairs vehicles accurately and within a reasonable time frame and with a quality of work that exceeds customer expectations.

♣ Performs diagnostic work accurately according to daily work orders as received from any manager including: emission control systems; throttle body injection; electrical problems on computerized vehicles; conditions between computer, ignition, and mechanical problems; anti-lock brake systems; cruise control; all non-computerized accessories; drivability problems; on-board computer problems; import fuel injection; import ignition on computerized vehicles; auto transmissions; computerized A/C systems; and four wheel drive internal components.

♣ Knows, understands, and performs all duties of the Repair Technician and Maintenance Technician jobs.

♣ Observes and follows all necessary safety regulations when operating machinery, equipment and tools.

♣ Perform work of other members of the service department if business necessitates.

♣ Perform any other duties either necessary for customer service or perceived by or assigned to the job.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform and enjoy each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Diagnostic Technician Job Description

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Minimum training required: All classes & certifications from the Technician Trainee, Maintenance Technician & Repair Technician roles. Training

Preferred: Auto Electricity & Electronics Scanner/On Board Diagnostics II Lab Scope Diagnostics Certified Repair Diagnostic Technician

ASE certifications: Suspension and Steering Brakes Heating & Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recovery & Recycling Engine Repair Electrical/ Electronic Systems Engine Performance Auto Advanced Engine Performance

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of an organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS AND REASONING ABILITY

to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, percent; and the ability to draw and interpret graphs.

All employees are expected to demonstrate core behaviors that help us provide the level of service that customers expect:

KEY COMPETENCIES DESCRIPTORS

1. Drive Self-motivated to act and to do more than what is expected to deliver excellent service.

2. Desire to Learn Actively seeks to build or acquire new knowledge to improve and develop skills.

3. Speed of Execution Carries out job duties in a manner that demonstrates ability to achieve the expected level of efficiency, quality, and customer service.

4. Detail Orientation Completes tasks accurately, thoroughly and with an eye toward quality, and in accordance with established processes and procedures.

5. Reliability Assumes personal responsibility for all aspects of work: quality, timeliness and results; seeking to complete tasks with little oversight.

• Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience at a local resort or hotel.

• Must speak perfect English, be willing to work weekends and evenings, and have a strong work ethic.

Salary – $8.50 per hr

Qualified applicants must send resume’s to: Claudius Williams, Owner/ Operator of Sentosa Spa and Yoga 2 Queens Landing Plaza Email at claudius@blueherontci.com

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

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

WRITERS/ PHOTO 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.

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

STEEL UNLIMITED

TC AUTO & SALES

TEMPCO RETAIL VARIETY STORE

MECHANIC

Run lines for power tools, lay out tools, set up forms for the pouring of concrete foundations, remove all debris, pack up tools, and take down bracing and scaffolding.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Assist with inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotation and changes, wheel balancing, replacing filters. $8.00 Hourly

Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

Washes dishes and keeps kitchen area clean

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 649-343-1853 41170

Cleaning outside the property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 344-3805

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41276

CONTACT: 231-6089

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

TRIPLE A HEAVY EQUIPMENT/ ADOLPH DAVIS

HELPER

Schedule appointments and assist with office daily operational tasks. Must have a valid driver’s license and Must own a vehicle

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-0026

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41245

CONTACT: 649-241-0236

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41227

CONTACT: 649-348-0762

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

CONTACT: 231-0977

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41205

SALARY:

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

CONTACT: 649-432-1025

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

41271

SOLENA

THEO MUSGROVE

Parkway Pest Solutions is seeking a responsible selfmotivating individual to join our team. We will provide training you will be responsible for:

• Conducting thorough inspections to identify pest problems.

• Developing and implementing effective treatment plans.

• Educating clients on pest prevention techniques.

• Maintaining accurate records of services provided.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have 1-3 years’ experience in Pest Control or related field of

work.

• Must have personal drive and the willingness to learn.

• Must be over the age of 25.

• Valid TCI driver's license.

• Strong communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Availability to work odd hours and holidays.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

• Benefits package available.

Our company is seeking Belongers only to apply to our different departments. Applicants must have some knowledge in

gaming field. Please bring down your CV’s or Resumes to Potts

• Rebuild, repair, modify and install gaming devices of all types and associated equipment

• Install, remove, set options, repair and troubleshoot online management systems, cash dispensing safes, progressive systems and signs

• Run and terminate CAT 5 and 6, fiber, coaxes and installs patch panels

• Maintain accurate inventory of parts issued.

• Maintains safe working equipment and keeps work areas clean

• Ensure compliance with all applicable gaming laws and company internal controls, policies and procedure REQUIREMENTS

• Excellent knowledge of machine trouble shooting testing and repair.

• Must show excellent customer service skills and show the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with customers, subordinates, and management and gaming regulatory organizations.

• Must have 2 years minimum experience in a similar role.

• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs

• Must speak, read and write fluent English

• Must be computer literate in Excel, word and outlook.

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Wymara Resort and Villas is a contemporary luxury full-service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.

* SECURITY MANAGER:

Accountable for managing the security operations for a five-star Resort and luxury villa development. The successful candidate will be responsible for short and long-range planning, coordinating management of the Security department by implementing measures and standards, which will include the well-being of all guests, employees, and hotel property. To direct and coordinate the overall activities of the Security Team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Works closely with leadership to develop and execute an operating strategy that aligns with business strategy. Maximize the prevention of crime.

• Responsible for 24-hour monitoring of property via patrol and CCTV and to document and record information as historic reference.

• Monitors and maintains fire, health and safety systems and collaborates with relevant fire, emergency and governmental agencies to ensure complete understanding of regulations, procedures, alarms, and equipment.

• Maintain legible and accurate records of all control centre documents to include General Security Log, Key Control, Lost and Found and Visitor Passes.

• Develops security budget and ensures departmental performance meets/exceeds budgetary goals. Regularly reviews financial reports/statements/forecasts to evaluate financial performance against budget.

• Controls security expenditures and ensures all projects are completed in a timely manner and within budget.

• Develop implements and manages emergency and disaster management programs.

• Review scheduled functions, group, or VIP arrivals and special events and to discuss special instructions with relevant departments.

• Be flexible with work hours, regardless of time, during day, or night, in order to personally facilitate security arrangements of cases that require special treatment and handling.

• Liaise with local authorities to identify activities that may affect the operation of the hotel such as seasonal events, current community crime trends, political activism and other, and to share any such concerns with superiors.

• Provide access, when required, to high-risk areas, exercising vigilance for the protection of assets and to secure the area when access is no longer required.

• Supervise the maintenance of the security log entries and to track all security officer patrol

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 242-7523

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41363

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 232-5501

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41310

reports and subsequent security activities.

• Manages and maintains security cameras and lighting systems.

• Develops, executes, and monitors preventative maintenance and asset protection programs.

• Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures.

• Exercises general supervision over the security team and communicates a clear and concise vision regarding department goals to produce desired results.

• Keeps owners and executives informed and provides timely response to queries from the same.

• Hires, mentors, and trains staff; establishes performance guidelines; and evaluates staff performance in accordance with resort policies.

• Complies with departmental standard operating procedures, Resort policies and TCIG health and safety regulations.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• minimum of 10 years with experience in a Luxury Resort environment, or equivalent combination of experience and education.

• Minimum 10 years’ experience with Luxury Hotel Security Systems and Operating Procedures.

• Experience with Asset/Risk Management.

• Experience with Hurricane Preparedness and Disaster Management.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop skills, mentor, and motivate a team.

• Thorough knowledge of Building Codes, Fire Safety Systems, Irrigation Sprinkler Systems, CCTV and Security Cameras, Generators, Energy Management Systems,

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language.

• Computer proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

• Proficiency in MS Office, Opera PMS, Salto, lock interrogation.

• Deadline oriented with the ability to multi-task and establish priorities.

Compensation: $45k - $50k

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to Hr@wymararesortandvillas.com

Duties:

Salary : $8.00

CONTACT:

DANIELLE H.V. GARLAND

DESROULEAUX MASSILLON

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-1680

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41388

Cleaning outside the property

Salary:

CONTACT: 442-7240

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41329

SUNNY FOOD STORE

CASH AND CARRY FIVE CAYS

SOUTH DOCK PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLAND

CONTACT NO: 1649-9462811

IS NOW HIRING:

BUTCHER(S)

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale

• Cleaning and maintaining of tools and equipment and ensuring displays are accurate and attractive.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary starts at $9.00 per hour

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application

LABOURER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application..

PRODUCE STOCKER(S)

• Responsible for doing Manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Knowledge on produce products and sanitary methods

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary starts at $8.50 per hour

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application..

GROCERY STOCK CLERK(S)

• Stock the shelves with product and fill it back up when it sells

• Keep the store looking good throughout the day doing what’s called “facing” or “fronting”

• Provide the bulk of the customer service outside of the check stands.

• Direct people to products and offer product suggestions and maybe

• even cooking tips

• Refill shelves and displays with goods.

• Assist with unloading delivery trucks and organizing stockrooms.

• Salary starts at $8.50 per hour

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application

The successful candidate will work closely with the private villa chef, he/she is expected to assist the chef with other duties and possess the following experience, qualities, and qualifications:

• Experience in Five Star F&B is essential.

• Expansive wine knowledge in order to assist private chef with wine parings for dining.

• ServSafe Certified

• Serving and bar tending experience is also essential since the sommelier will be expected to serve dinner and drinks.

• Butler experience and or training would be an advantage

• Assist private chef in maintaining the cleanliness and proper sanitation of the kitchen

• He/she must be willing to work flexible and long hours (weekends, & especially holidays) when the family and friends are in residence.

• He/she must be able to work within a team and be willing to perform other duties to assist other staff as required.

• He/she must be extremely well presented and have a good command of English.

• A clean driver’s license is also required as the Sommelier would be expected to assist the private chef with shopping.

Please note that this position is held by a work permit holder. The starting salary for this position is $1800.00 per month. Suitably qualified candidates should apply to hr@thesource.tc and send a copy of their resume to The Employment/Labour Department.

A housekeeper/Server is required for a Luxury Villa. Applicant is required to perform a variety of housekeeping duties including but not limited to the following: -

• Maintaining proper inventory of linen and amenities

• Performing a variety of cleaning details such as vacuuming, mopping, surface cleaning, dusting, changing and laundering linen.

• Ensure that rooms in villa is cared for and inspected according to company standards

• Notify Villa Manager of any damages

• Deal with any request and or complaints in a professional manner and patience.

• Must be committed to working as a part of the team

• Must have the initiative to work with minimal supervision

• Must be willing to perform any other duty assigned by Supervisor

• Must follow directions both written and verbally

• Must be honest and confidential

• Must be a good communicator

• Attention to detail and some customer assistance and service are required. This position requires someone with a sunny disposition who can remain calm during stressful situations. Applicant must have a minimum of 2 years Luxury Villa housekeeping experience. Applicant may work long hours including weekends and holidays. Renumeration for this position starts at $1500.00 per month. Interested persons should address their resume to hr@thesource.tc. and send a copy to The Employment/Labour Department

PETIT FRERE

JERICHO BAPTIST CHURCH

JN BERNARD DIEUDONNE

DRYWALL FINISHER

Responsible for installing wallboards to ceilings or to interior walls of buildings and applying plaster.

Salary: $12.00 hourly

CONTACT: 333-1505

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41355

JULIAN GARLAND

Applicant must willing to work.

Cleaning yard, trimming trees, debris disposal and assisting with other work in and around my home.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-344-4427

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41343

JUNIOR ETIENNE RIGBY

Playing of Piano Keyboard, Training for Music Department, and Weekly vocal training for Praise Team, Choir, and Music class.

Work hours include every church service, special functions and Events.

Salary: Based on experience

CONTACT: 941-4840

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-2299

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41386

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 244-7337

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41367

KENARD CRUISES LTD

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 348-7523

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41330

KISHENA ROBINSON SMITH

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash,

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

Must be excellent in boat excursions, guest relations, watersport activities, cooking, etc. Must be Trustworthy.

Salary: $12.00 hourly

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Salary:

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 347-7298 41339

CONTACT: 231-3483

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT:

CONTACT:

LYNIKA’S CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES

CONTACT: 232-2866

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41409

Blue

CONTACT: 246-8249

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41342

Ensuring

Salary:

BELONGERS

342-1075

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 342-1075

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41389

areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 332-4839

BELONGERS

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.50 Hourly

CONTACT: 344-3659

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41306

JOHN

JEAN

JOSEPH CAMPBELL

Applicant must be honest, reliable and hard working.

Taking care of children, cooking, washing, ironing and cleaning the house.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 244-0344

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41345

Cleaning outside the property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-341-1683

BELONGERS APPLY

41319

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 232-7124

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41368

ENEL DUMONARD

To clean outside of the property with a sweeper and picking up yard waste, disposal of trash and clean windows and door frames.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-343-7171

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41352

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 347-8694

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41394

CONTACT:

CONTACT: 341-1236

BELONGERS

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

Salary:

CONTACT:

RENEWAL,

CONTACT:

RENEWAL,

CONTACT:

FIRST

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Chief Executive Officer

Experience Turks and Caicos is seeking a suitable candidate for the position of Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”). Experience Turks & Caicos, the Tourism Destination Marketing & Management Organization for the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensures the efficient and effective delivery of the tourism product focusing on building a sustainable Tourism Ecosystem. The CEO will be responsible for the leadership and management of all day-to-day operations of the organization. This highly visible position will interact with key leaders in the community, government, media, and tourism. The CEO will also serve as the key spokesperson for the organization, ensuring ongoing and active communication and engagement with all tourism stakeholders. The CEO will report directly to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, who reports to the Ministry of Tourism.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage “Experience Turks and Caicos” and supervise the activities of the managers/directors of all other Departments and Units composing “Experience Turks and Caicos”.

• Work closely with the executive team and key stakeholders to develop and implement an annual strategic plan.

• Develop relationships with government officials and national and local political representatives to promote the mission of “Experience Turks and Caicos” and advocate for the tourism industry.

• Work with executive leadership to develop the annual operating budget and staffing requirements.

• Leads the decision-making for the executive team and all employee team members within the organisation. This includes making decisions related to the recruitment, and performance management of all employee team members.

• Oversee the finance team to ensure sound internal controls, segregation of duties, and development of policies and procedures.

• Assure a workplace culture that is innovative, supportive, inclusive, and rewarding.

• Develop strategies to identify and pursue new sources of revenue

or services that will assist “Experience Turks and Caicos” in fulfilling its mission and increasing its funding.

• Ensure that all activities of the organisation are implemented and comply with established policies and procedures, regulations, guidelines, laws, and ethical standards.

• Develop marketing strategies and implement programming to support targeted product development.

• Maintain active community involvement to enhance the visibility and reputation of “Experience Turks and Caicos”.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s Degree in business administration, public administration, economics, tourism, marketing and communications, or other relevant field required; an advanced degree is preferred; or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that would provide the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the successful performance of the essential job duties.

• Minimum of ten (10) years of leadership or management/ supervisory experience in a tourism-related field utilizing the knowledge, skills and abilities listed below.

• Prior hospitality/tourism, association, or economic development experience preferred.

• Prior experience as CEO in a tourism destination marketing, management or development organization is highly preferred.

• In-depth knowledge of marketing.

• Exceptional financial acumen and experience managing budgets.

• Experience developing market-driven luxury tourism products portfolio.

• Experience engaging local communities and tourism SMEs in the development of new tourism products.

• Experience with quality, safety, and sustainable tourism development programmes for tourism services through international standards.

• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills.

• Excellent inclusive communication and interpersonal abilities.

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Wymara Resort and Villas is a contemporary luxury full-service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.

*FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

- Oversees daily operations of the restaurant. Directs the activities of restaurant service personnel, Restaurant Managers, Food and Beverage servers, Bartenders, Pool and Beach servers, Host/Hostess. Resolve customer complaints regarding food service. Train employees in food preparation, and in service, sanitation, and safety procedures. Observe and evaluate employees and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service. Assign duties, responsibilities, and workstations to employees in accordance with work requirements. Previous experience working in a multicultural 5 Star property. Extensive wine knowledge. Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software, Opera, Micros POS, Open Table, Timeclock,). Must be fluent in English. A second language is preferred. Compensation: $35k - $45k per annum

*LABOURER

- Must have experience in a resort, knowledge of cleaning and preventative maintenance process and pay keen attention to details. Transports and generally maintain all of Maintenance areas. Compensation: $8.00 per hour

*SPA DIRECTOR

- The Spa Director is responsible for the daily operations, management, and profitability of the spa, along with the highest level of customer service and quality work environment. Oversee the management of all positions: front desk, spa technicians, teachers, and boutique to provide a seamless operation and service for the guests. Improve guest service + satisfaction levels through heightened levels of communication and personalized service.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Manage, coordinate, and/or conduct associate meetings and workshops for all product lines.

• Perform all Human Resources functions, according to policies and procedures.

• Promote events and activities within the local community by creating marketing collateral to provide continuous engagement.

• Monitor daily sales activities to ensure that all transactions are completed accurately.

• Ensure the maintenance and cleanliness of spa facility. Control and maintain a high quality of music selection and HVAC.

• Ensure spa treatment quality controls, including service, cleanliness, and product usage.

• Manage the preparation of purchase orders for professional treatment and operational supplies.

• Maintain proper inventory levels for all professional and retail products.

• Conduct annual performance reviews of supervisory and hourly associates, where applicable.

• Partner with Controller to prepare monthly financial variance reports and participate in the development of the annual budget.

• Maintain expertise regarding all standard operating procedures and policies.

• Coordinate press visits, as requested by Ownership.

• Assist with special projects, events, and promotions as needed.

• Respond to guest questions and associate concerns in a timely, professional manner.

• Maintain a high level of guest rapport and service.

• Adhere to company guidelines and core values.

• Maintain a working knowledge of all Spa classes, services, and products.

• Attend Spa class a minimum of three times a week.

• Demonstrate positive attitude and actions through a display of courtesy, service, cooperation, hospitality, sensitivity, and professionalism to internal guests.

• Coordinate new hire orientations.

• Increase gross margins of the business through optimal scheduling, staffing

plans, and capacity utilization.

• Manage department to achieve or exceed desired unit metric goals.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a Spa for Luxury Hotel.

• Certificate in Aromatherapy required.

• Certificate in Massage Therapy required.

• Certificate in Massage Yoga required.

• Certificate in Face & Body Treatments Training.

• Ayurverdic certification required.

• Extensive knowledge in Spa Management and budgeting.

• Must be enthusiastic, motivated, and a team player.

• Must possess computer proficiency with Windows-based products.

• Must have outstanding experience delivering high-quality customer service.

• Display good organizational, written, and verbal skills.

Compensation: 40K – 55K per annum

*DIRECTOR OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE

- Directs and supervises, all aspects of the Food & Beverage operations for the resort, Indigo, Pink Bar, Blue Water Bistro, Tiki Bar’s, In Room Dining and all private dining functions and events. Main responsibilities are to ensure proper training and supervision of the team and to deliver prompt, courteous service in a manner that complies with Wymara and Indigo standards. The Director of Food and Beverage will be responsible for the effective administration, supervision, and execution of programs consistent with the company standards and goals of providing excellent service while generating maximum revenue.

REQUIREMENTS:

4-year degree from an accredited university in Food Service Management, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related major. International equivalent suffices. Minimum 5years’ experience as F&B Manager from leading international 5 Star Level Luxury Resort, proven knowledge of, and ability to oversee and direct the food and beverage division. Fluent in English, both verbal and written. A second language is preferred. Extensive knowledge of varying brands and quality of liquors. Knowledge of new and oldworld wines including food and wine pairing. Ability to investigate and solve guest complaints, follow up and meet/exceed guest expectations. Caribbean experience preferred.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

Operational: Developing and Executing Food and Beverage Strategy and Goals.

• Streamlining all procedures to maximize efficiency and drive guest satisfaction and revenues.

• Creating cost control driven menus utilizing menu engineering and the correct menu mix.

• Possess excellent financial and computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite with responsibility for monthly and yearly Labor Reports & P&L.

• Works with direct reports to develop and implement promotions, food and wine pairings, menu items and presentations.

• Develops a food and beverage operating strategy that is aligned with the brand’s business strategy and leads its execution.

• Ensures integration of departmental goals in game plans. Knowledge of specific hospitality industry applications (SMS, Avero, Opentable, MICROS POS).

LEADING FOOD AND BEVERAGE TEAMS

Ensures that regular, on-going communication occurs in all areas of food and beverage (e.g., pre-meal briefings, staff meetings, culinary team).

• Works with direct reports to review business in house and potential business in

surrounding area and troubleshoot potential challenges/conflicts.

• Reviews staffing levels to ensure that guest service and operational needs are met.

• Sets expectations and holds food and beverage leadership team accountable for demonstrating desired service behaviors.

• Provides feedback to employees based on observation of service behaviors.

• Utilizes employee feedback and an “open door” policy to identify and address employee problems or concerns in a timely manner.

• Communicates critical information gained from pre- and post-event meetings to areas of responsibility.

• Estimate food, liquor, wine, and other beverage consumption in order to anticipate amounts to be purchased or requisitioned.

ORDER AND PURCHASE EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES.

• Maximizing Food and Beverage Revenue

• Reviews financial reports and statements to determine how Food and Beverage is performing against budget.

• Ensures cash control and liquor control policies are in place in food & beverage areas and followed by all related employees.

• Encourages calculated risk-taking to generate incremental revenue and deliver Savvy Service.

ENSURING EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE

• Creates an atmosphere in all food and beverage areas that meets or exceeds guest expectations.

• Reviews comment cards, guest satisfaction results and other data to identify areas of improvement.

• Strives to improve service performance.

MANAGING AND CONDUCTING HUMAN RESOURCE ACTIVITIES

• Ensures property policies are administered fairly and consistently, disciplinary procedures and documentation are completed according to Standard and Local Operating Procedures (SOPs and LSOPs) and supports the peer review process.

• Conducts annual performance appraisals with direct reports according to Standard Operating Procedures.

• Communicates and executes departmental and property emergency procedures.

• Hires food & beverage leadership team members who demonstrate strong functional expertise, creativity and entrepreneurial leadership to meet the business needs of the operation.

• Ensures new hires participate in the department’s orientation program and receive the appropriate new hire training to successfully perform their job.

• Sets goals and expectations for direct reports using the performance review process and holds staff accountable for successful performance.

• Establishes guidelines so employees understand expectations and parameters.

• Ensures employees receive on-going training to understand guest expectations.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

Experience from leading international 5-star luxury full-service hotels, proven knowledge of, and ability to oversee and direct the food and beverage division. Pre-opening experience is a must.

• 10 years’ experience in the food and beverage, culinary, event management, or related professional area as a senior manager of Food and Beverage.

• High energy leader with 6 years’ experience in managing a successful fine dining a la carte restaurant, preferably in a hotel environment.

• Excellent communication, coaching and leadership skills.

• Must have the stamina to work 50 to 60 hours per week.

• Experience in managing a large multinational staff.

• Good organizational skills for dealing with diverse duties and staff.

• Extensive knowledge of varying brands and quality of liquors.

• Ability to read, interpret and demonstrate the preparation of drink recipes.

Compensation: 60k - 75k per annum

Interested

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CONTINUED

*DIRECTOR OF PROJECTS

- Responsible for providing oversight for overall construction, environmental, maintenance and refurbishment projects, planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and control. The project manager will own and manage all aspects of projects to include client relationships, financial planning, cost control and financial forecasting and profitability through comprehensive project completion. The Director of Projects will develop, refine and update project schedules to ensure all milestones are identified and tracked. This position will provide technical direction and ensure compliance with all local and building codes, environmental safety management and quality standards. Responsibilities span a broad spectrum, covering a complete understanding of remote logistics, local culture, and challenges related to environmental protections laws.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

Works closely with property/regional leadership to develop and execute an operating strategy that aligns with the resort’s/brand’s business strategy.

• Manage and provide oversight of projects through all phases of project development – from energy efficiency to maintenance and construction.

• Provide scope, schedule, and budget on all assigned projects.

• Contract and manage the design and execution for all assigned projects.

• Responsible for all communication and coordination with facility operations and owners to achieve successful projects and turnover; includes managing punch list processes and close out administration.

• Project accounting functions include managing the budget, tracking expenses, and minimizing exposure and risk, in order to report to ownership any budgetary savings.

• Procurement of supplies and parts as well as maintenance of inventory and requisition process, billing and reporting.

• Manage document control and ensure project documents are completed timely and filed properly within project management software and database.

• Communicate and report statuses of all projects to upper management.

• Responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with Purchasing and hotel operations; closely monitoring process and coordination of resources.

• Participate in all projects and engineering meetings.

• Monitor reporting for operational efficiency and correct billing.

• Develops, implements, and manages emergency and disaster management programs.

• Assists with developing Strata budget and manages Strata Costs.

• Develops, executes, and monitors preventative maintenance and asset protection programs.

• Manages controllable expenses through the implementation of cost saving and energy conservation programs.

• Monitors and maintains fire, health and safety systems and collaborates with relevant fire, emergency, and governmental agencies to ensure complete understanding of regulations, procedures, alarms, and equipment.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

10 -15years of experience in commercial construction management, hospitality engineering management preferred.

• Degree in Accounting Business a management or equivalent combination of experience.

• Licensed Building Inspector.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products required.

• Must be able to use Microsoft Project scheduling software, or software of industry equivalent.

• Excellent communication, organizational, presentation and problem-solving skills required.

• Hospitality/Hotel engineering management experience preferred.

• Thorough understanding of all types of mechanical equipment, HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems, waste treatment, power, water, and fuel consumption. Compensation: $90K - $110K per year

Perform therapeutic massages; knead muscles and soft tissues of the body to provide treatment for medical conditions, injuries, or wellness maintenance.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-3291

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41232

Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

2 CLEANERS DAVIS CONSTRUCTION

Providenciales

Cleaning

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-5420 41190

F & J RESTAURANT

Way, Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

COOK

Cook in restaurants and prepare food, prep meals and cook.

Must have experience as a cook.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

CONTACT: 345-6117

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41279

DECEIDE

Stocking and

facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

HELPER 6580 Leeward Highway Is seeking to employ a

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Cares for garden.

Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-346-9826

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

DOSSOU

BABYSITTER South Dock Is seeking to employ a

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and etc.

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-4904

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41216

JACQUEZ

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 247-5610 41273

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Back, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a GEORGE CHRISTOPHER FORBES

THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41214

LABOURER

Perform functions including physical labour and cleaning at work sites.

CONTACT: 346-4416

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Greets

CONTACT:

ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41208

$8.00 hourly LABOURER Kew, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a

41241

Salary:

CONTACT: 343-1278

TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL Build and install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form structures. Cut, position, and bolt down steel bars.

To

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 232-7177

RENEWAL,

CONTACT: 649-331-8064

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-341-3104

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 348-7428

BELONGERS

Salary:

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 343-6941

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

21

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $450.00 weekly

CONTACT: 343-7857

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 241-6349

BELONGERS

MCINTOSH PLASTERING AND BUILDING SERVICES

Salary:

CONTACT: 649-346-5546

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

41163

CONTACT: 244-5212

BELONGERS

41243

M & M MINI MART

Caicos

Salary:

CONTACT: 347-8881

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE

Maintain the outlook of a store by cleaning and restocking shelves.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-344-1864

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41161

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 343-9797

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 347-8881 41237

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41203

LAWRENCE

Salary:

CONTACT: 342-8799

PIERRE’S BARBER SHOP & BEAUTY SALON

Shampooing, coloring, and styling hair, and treating scalp. Makeup, dress wigs, perform hair removal, nail and skin care services. $8.00 Hourly

Shampooing, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, permanents, coloring, and weaving. $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 333-3696

BELONGERS

Salary:

CONTACT: 231-3345

Plan menus and cook meals

Salary: $10.00hr

CONTACT: 333-6066

CONTACT: 232-2001

BELONGERS

RASHARD’S CLEANING

The Bight, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

Perform deep cleaning, dust and polish various surfaces, vacuum carpets and other menial tasks.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

Salary:

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-342-5891

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41168

CONTACT: 649-347-8757 41165

BELONGERS

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

ROBERT’S AGENCY SUNSHINE NURSERY

Maintaining plants, cutting trees. $8.00 hourly (Renewal)

CONTACT: 946-5443

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

41206

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 342-0255

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41176

Science & Technology

CDC recommends seniors get another Covid-19 shot

People age 65 and older should get an additional dose of the current Covid-19 vaccine, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends.

The agency’s independent vaccine advisers voted Wednesday to recommend the additional shot, and CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen endorsed the recommendation.

The vote of CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices was 11 yes and one no, with one person abstaining.

Under the new recommendation, people 65 and older can receive an additional dose of any updated Covid-19 vaccine at least four months after the previous shot.

The current Covid-19 vaccine, which was updated last fall, is considered highly effective. Early estimates from CDC studies show that although there has been no substantial waning yet, protection will wane over time. However, the protection offered by any vaccine disappears even quicker in older people because their immune systems don’t respond as well.

The initial proposal used the word “may,” but the committee changed the language to “should”

Under the new recommendation, people 65 and older can receive an additional dose of any updated Covid-19 vaccine at least four months after the previous shot

to emphasize how important it is to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

Although 98% of the US population has some kind of immunity to Covid-19, whether from infection, vaccination or both, that gives only some protection against infection or severe disease, CDC epidemiologist Dr. Ruth Link-Gelles told the advisers during Wednesday’s meeting.

“It doesn’t protect absolutely,” she said.

TO TEACH, BUSINESS STUDIES AND MATHEMATICS

Suitable

“What the vaccines are doing now is providing an incremental benefit or an extra benefit beyond whatever benefit someone has remaining from their past infection or past vaccination, and we know that protection from past vaccination and past infection wanes,” Link-Gelles said. “That’s important for all people in the United States but especially important for those that are the highest risk.”

Data from the CDC shows that throughout the pandemic, older adults have been the most vulnerable to the severe effects of Covid-19.

Covid-related hospitalizations for adults 65 and older have been consistently higher than for all other age groups. About twothirds of Covid hospitalizations are people in this age group, CDC data shows. Seniors also make up the greatest proportion of those who died in a hospital with Covid and have the highest numbers of deaths even after they’ve been discharged.

Of older adults hospitalised with Covid, the highest percentage had no record of any vaccination against the coronavirus since the original shot, according to data from last fall that was presented to the committee Wednesday.

The vaccine is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, but data from the CDC shows that people haven’t been getting the shots.

Strong evidence from new research shows that the vaccine can not only prevent severe disease but may cut the chances of getting a symptomatic infection by half, including against JN.1, the most

CLOVERLEAF EMPLOYMENT AGENCY

LIVE IN BUTLER

Rate: $1,500.00

Description: Preparing meals

HOUSEKEEPERS

/ New)

Rate: $8.00 hr

Description: Washing and cleaning

/ New)

common circulating variant of the virus. Yet only about 21% of adults and about 12% of children have gotten the vaccine since its update in September, according to the CDC. By comparison, nearly half of adults and kids in the US have gotten a flu vaccine this season.

The National Immunization Survey shows that most Americans still consider Covid-19 vaccines to be safe and important, but people’s confidence in the vaccine has fallen from 83.9% in January 2022 to 69.6% last month.

Disease risk perception has also changed, according to the survey, and fewer adults say they are moderately or very concerned about getting Covid. Despite the general perception, Covid is still very much a threat, particularly to vulnerable populations like older people and those with underlying conditions.

There were about 20,000 new hospital admissions and 2,000 Covid-19 deaths a week as of the week ending February 17, CDC representatives told the advisory committee. Even when numbers were at their lowest last summer, there were still about 500 Covid-19 deaths per week. (CNN)

& Technology

Fasting-like diet could slow the aging process, study suggests: ‘Living longer and healthier’

Could adopting a fasting-like diet help slow down aging?

That’s the claim of researchers from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology in Los Angeles, who led a study on the benefits of a “fasting-mimicking diet” (FMD).

In addition to reducing biological age and immune system aging, the diet was linked to reductions in insulin resistance and liver fat, according to a press release from the university.

The findings, published in Nature Communications on Feb. 20, were based on clinical trials that included 100 men and women between 18 and 70 years old.

Half of the group was randomly assigned to the FMD, adhering to the diet for five days followed by 25 days of normal eating for three or four cycles.

The control group ate either a normal diet or a Mediterraneanstyle diet.

The people in the FMD group showed decreased abdominal and liver fat, as well as reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, which can lead to heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Those on the experimental diet also showed signs of a more youthful immune system.

Overall, the FMD adopters’ biological age was reduced by an average of 2.5 years based on the functioning of their cells and tissues, the researchers found.

“I think it is surprising that three cycles of the FMD done for only five days a month (15 days total) — which allow people to have modified/low calorie but regular meals and without changing the normal diet of the participants for the rest of the month — can have such an effect on biological age, body fat and a range of disease risk factors,” senior author Valter Longo, USC Leonard Davis School Professor, told Fox News Digital.

If the cycles were continued for three cycles a year for 20 years, Longo projected that the FMD could reduce biological age by 11 years and reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes by 10% to 30%.

“However, these are only simulations — and additional studies are necessary to confirm this potential of the FMD cycles,” he added.

Prior studies in mice have identified additional benefits of the FMD, including reduced risk of age-related diseases like cancer, heart disease and diabetes, Vongo

In the USC study, the fasting-mimicking diet included energy bars, plant-based soups, chip snacks, energy drinks and tea

pointed out.

The diet has been previously to reduced chemo side effects, greater stem cell regeneration and reduced signs of dementia, the release stated.

WHAT IS THE FASTINGMIMICKING DIET?

Originally developed by Longo, the FMD is a five-day diet that is low in overall calories, protein and carbohydrates and high in unsaturated fat.

The eating plan is designed to mimic a pure fast while still allowing consumption of essential nutrients.

“The fasting-mimicking diet (FMD), also known as the ProLon Diet, has been around for approximately seven years and has been studied in multiple clinical trials,” Erin Palinski-Wade, a New Jersey-based registered dietitian, told Fox News Digital.

“By following a structured, very low-calorie nutrition plan for five days, the goal is to provide the benefits of a prolonged fast while still allowing individuals to eat,” said Palinski-Wade, who was not involved in the USC study.

“The diet is designed to transition the body into a fasting state while nourishing it with specific nutrients to avoid activating food-sensing pathways.”

In the USC study, the fastingmimicking diet included energy bars, plant-based soups, chip snacks, energy drinks and tea, according to the release.

The FMD group also received a supplement with “high levels of minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids.”

The specific diet that was tested in the two trials is commercially available, but Longo said that university rules prevent him from sharing the name of the product.

“I think it is important to begin to consider the plant-based FMD intervention described here for two to three times a year as a way to prevent and treat some diseases, together with the right type of drugs,” Longo said.

This could aid in “returning to full health and living longer and healthier, rather than continuing to take progressively more drugs as we age,” he added.

For people aiming to prevent or treat diseases through the use of an FMD, Longo said people should first talk to a doctor.

OTHER EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON THE DIET

Melanie Avalon, an Atlanta-based health influencer who hosts “The Intermittent Fasting Podcast,” was not involved in the study, but noted that the research provides “solid

data” on how dietary and lifestyle changes affect the aging process.

“Our society’s fascination with youth and longevity is well-known; however, measuring progress and biological improvements is often subjective,” she told Fox News Digital.

“The concept of ‘chronological age’ can mislead when assessing the body’s aging rate and predicting lifespan,” Avalon went on.

“For the first time, this study reveals that a fasting-mimicking diet can reduce one’s biological age.”

While traditional fasting can be daunting for some, FMD can be a more feasible alternative.

“It allows for physical, biological and epigenetic benefits without the need for prolonged water-only fasts,” she said.

While fasting is often pursued for its visible weight loss benefits, Avalon noted that this study highlights FMD’s extended benefits for metabolic health.

“In an era obsessed with superficial youth and quick fixes, the fasting-mimicking diet offers a tangible method to systematically reverse aging and enhance metabolic health,” she said.

“Unlike the costly and extreme measures of ‘biohacking,’ the FMD provides an accessible and practical solution to reduce

biological age.”

POTENTIAL RISKS AND LIMITATIONS

Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Charlotte, North Carolina, who practices as The Lupus Dietitian, cautioned that she would not recommend the fasting-mimicking diet to any person who has struggled with an eating disorder in the past or who has trouble controlling their blood sugar.

“Restricting and changing eating patterns may have negative effects,” she said.

Palinski-Wade agreed that those with underlying health conditions should speak to their physician before considering a restrictive diet plan.

“A very low-calorie diet may not be appropriate for those with uncontrolled diabetes, a history of hypoglycemia, a history of disordered eating, or those who are pregnant or nursing,” she said.

Before making any dietary changes, Freirich stressed the need for “extensive education” to be provided.

“While changing the timing and amount of our food intake is an approach worth examining, it is also important to remember to choose health-promoting foods daily,” the dietitian continued.

“The food choices we make daily have a large impact on our weight, blood sugars, heart health, immune system and more. If fasting doesn’t feel like the right choice for you, speaking with a registered dietitian about the dietary changes for your health is always recommended.”

The study had some limitations, both dietitians noted.

“It was a small sample size of healthy young-ish individuals,” Freirich said. “The results may be helpful and useful for other people after more research is completed in a larger age range and including people with other medical concerns.”

Palinski-Wade reiterated that the studies on FMD have included smaller sample sizes of generally healthy adults, which means the results cannot be generalized to all populations.

“FMD may offer promising benefits and may be an excellent tool to consider for those looking to improve long-term health and reduce future disease risk, but more research is needed on larger and more diverse populations to fully understand the benefits it may offer,” she added.

Science & Technology

Ultraprocessed foods linked to heart disease, diabetes, mental disorders and early death, study finds

Eating ultraprocessed foods raises the risk of developing or dying from dozens of adverse health conditions, according to a new review of 45 meta-analyses on almost 10 million people.

“We found consistent evidence linking higher intakes of ultraprocessed foods with over 70% of the 45 different health outcomes we assessed,” said senior author Wolfgang Marx, a senior research fellow at the Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University in Geelong, Australia, in an email.

A higher intake was considered about one serving or about 10% more ultraprocessed foods per day, said Heinz Freisling, a scientist in the nutrition and metabolism branch of the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, in an email.

“This proportion can be regarded as ‘baseline’ and for people consuming more than this baseline, the risk might increase,” said Freisling, who was not involved in the study.

Researchers graded each study as having credible or strong, highly suggestive, suggestive, weak or no evidence. All the studies in the review were published in the past three years, and none was funded by companies involved in the production of ultraprocessed foods, the authors said.

“Strong evidence shows that a higher intake of ultraprocessed foods was associated with approximately 50% higher risk of cardiovascular diseaserelated death and common mental disorders,” said lead author Dr. Melissa Lane, a postdoctoral research fellow at Deakin, in an email. Cardiovascular disease encompasses heart attacks, stroke, clogged arteries and peripheral artery disease.

There was convincing evidence that a high versus low intake of ultraprocessed foods could increase the risk of anxiety by up to

53%, and the risk of an early death from any cause by 20%, according to the study published Wednesday in the journal The BMJ.

“It’s not surprising that there are a lot of studies that point to a positive association between ultraprocessed food consumption and the risk of various disease outcomes,” said cancer epidemiologist Fang Fang Zhang, associate professor and chair of the division of nutrition epidemiology and data science at Tufts University in Boston. She was not involved in the new research.

“Ultraprocessed foods are high in calories, added sugar, sodium, and low in fiber,” Zhang said. “All of these have already been known to contribute to cardiometabolic health outcomes, weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypertension.”

However, Zhang questioned the findings on studies of anxiety and depression, which tend to be done only on those who have already been diagnosed with those conditions.

“People who are having depressive symptoms or anxiety may seek out ultraprocessed foods for various reasons such as selfcomfort,” she said. “It may not be that eating ultraprocessed food puts you at high risk for depression — we cannot tell.”

MIXED IMPACT ON SOME HEALTH CONDITIONS

Researchers found highly suggestive evidence that eating more ultraprocessed foods raised the risk of obesity by 55%, sleep disorders by 41%, development of type 2 diabetes by 40% and the risk of depression by 20%.

However, evidence was limited for an association between consuming ultraprocessed food and asthma, gastrointestinal health and cardiometabolic risk factors such as high blood fats and low levels of “good” high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol, according to the

analysis.

In addition, the study found only suggestive or no evidence for an association between ultraprocessed foods and cancer. That’s surprising, according to Zhang, who has researched the role of ultraprocessed foods and cancer.

“Obesity is a risk factor for 13 types of cancers. Ultraprocessed foods increase weight gain, and obesity increases cancer,” she said. In an August 2022 study she coauthored, Zhang found men who ate the most ultraprocessed foods of any type had a 29% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

One reason for the unexpected finding is that research on ultraprocessed foods is still in its infancy, said study coauthor Mathilde Touvier, research director at the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, a public research organization.

“We definitely need more studies to be able to upgrade the weight of evidence for cancer, for instance,” said Touvier, also the principal investigator of the NutriNet-Santé cohort, a long-term study of the relationship between nutrition and health.

“So it’s not because there’s nothing there, it’s just because we need additional research,” she said.

THE MAKING OF ULTRAPROCESSED FOODS

Ultraprocessed foods are much more than simply “modified” foods, said nutrition researcher Dr. Carlos Monteiro, head of the Centre for Epidemiological Studies in Health and Nutrition at the University of São Paulo in Brazil. He was not involved in the new research.

“They are formulations of often

chemically manipulated cheap ingredients such as modified starches, sugars, oils, fats, and protein isolates, with little if any whole food added,” said Monteiro, a professor of nutrition and public health, in an attached editorial. Monteiro coined the term ultraprocessed food in 2009 when he developed NOVA, a system of classifying foods into four categories. Group one consists of unprocessed or minimally processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, eggs and milk. Group two includes culinary ingredients such as salt, herbs, oils and the like. Group three are processed foods that combine groups one and two — canned goods and frozen vegetables are examples.

Group four are ultraprocessed foods, which Monteiro said are made flavorful and enticing by using combinations of artificial flavors, colors, thickeners and other additives that have been “linked by experimental and epidemiological evidence to imbalances in gut microbiota and systemic inflammation.”

“No reason exists to believe that humans can fully adapt to these products,” Monteiro wrote in the editorial. “The body may react to them as useless or harmful, so its systems may become impaired or damaged, depending on their vulnerability and the amount of ultra-processed food consumed.”

Since Monteiro’s definition of ultraprocessed food appeared, nutritionists, researchers and public health officials have grown concerned about the increasing prevalence of such foods in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada and many developing nations.

REDUCE THE USE OF ULTRAPROCESSED FOODS

There’s an easy solution — buy real food and cook it at home. It’s that simple, experts say. But experts also agree that in today’s fast-paced world, giving up the convenience of ready-to-heat and ready-to-eat foods is difficult. In addition, it’s nearly impossible to avoid temptation, as over 70% of the US food supply is made of ultraprocessed food.

Regulation by public health agencies and governments should be considered, Monteiro said, such as front-of-pack warning labels; restriction of advertising, especially to children; and the prohibition of sales of ultraprocessed foods in or near schools and hospitals, all while making minimally processed foods more affordable and accessible.

IN THE MEANTIME, MARX AND LANE OFFERED THE FOLLOWING ADVICE:

1) Read and compare product labels and try to choose less processed alternatives. For example, swap flavoured yogurt for plain yogurt with added fruit.

2) What you include is just as important as what you exclude. Focus on what you can add to your diet such as fresh, frozen or tinned fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes.

3) Be mindful of beverages. Sugarsweetened beverages have no nutritional value. Swap them out for water.

4) When eating out, go to local restaurants and cafés instead of fast-food chains. Local eateries are less likely to make ultraprocessed foods. (CNN)

Eating ultraprocessed foods raises the risk of developing or dying from dozens of adverse health conditions

Science & Technology

Weight loss surgery has long-term benefits for people with diabetes, study finds

Bariatric surgery, also called weight loss surgery, leads to better blood sugar control and less medication use long-term in people with type 2 diabetes than non-surgical management with medications such as insulin and metformin, a new study found.

The study, published Tuesday in the journal JAMA, compared the blood sugar levels and medication regimens of 262 people who were randomly assigned to undergo weight loss surgery or non-surgical medical management, such as medication and lifestyle changes, for type 2 diabetes after seven to 12 years.

Participants who had weight loss surgery had significantly lower blood sugar levels and were on fewer diabetes medications than those who did not undergo surgery, the researchers, from University of Pittsburgh and other institutions, wrote. They were also more likely to achieve diabetes remission, which is defined as having nondiabetic blood sugar levels for at least three months without medication.

This research “provides the most robust evidence to date of the long-term efficacy of bariatric

Participants who had weight loss surgery had significantly lower blood sugar levels and were on fewer diabetes medications

surgery for improving control of type 2 diabetes,” Dr. Thomas A. Wadden, a professor of psychology and former director of the Center for Weight and Eating Disorders at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, wrote in an editorial that was published along with the research.

Weight loss surgery is a procedure in which the digestive tract is altered — typically, the size of the stomach is reduced — to help a person lose weight, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and

Kidney Diseases.

The resulting reduction in food intake and neurohormonal changes also lower blood sugar and thereby treat type 2 diabetes, Dr. Marilyn Tan, chief of the Endocrinology Clinic at Stanford Health Care, who was not involved with the research, wrote in an email to CNN.

“Though it’s a more invasive option than traditional diabetes medications and is a large commitment, it’s also an investment in long-term health,”

Tan said.

Most health-care providers

don’t currently recommend weight loss surgery for type 2 diabetes unless a person has a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, and less than 1% of those people end up pursuing surgical treatment, according to the study.

However, Wadden said in an email to CNN that the new findings support the expanded use of bariatric surgery to those with a BMI less than 35 who have trouble controlling their blood sugar with medical management alone.

“I hope these results will encourage more insurers and payers to cover bariatric surgery for patients with type 2 diabetes and a BMI of 30 to 34.9,” he said.

“It is a highly effective, long-term therapy for these individuals.”

Non-surgical medical management for type 2 diabetes involves lifestyle changes like reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing exercise, and using medications like metformin and occasionally insulin, Tan said. The goal is to lower hemoglobin A1c, the measure of average blood sugar levels over three months, below 7%.

“I’ve had multiple patients where despite hundreds of units

of insulin a day, and despite their best efforts, they are unable to get their A1cs below 10%,” Tan said. “Then, after bariatric surgery, they can maintain A1c levels below the diabetes range without any medications. They also note that with the weight loss, they can be more active.”

Further research is needed to compare the clinical outcomes and cost efficacy of weight loss surgery and the new generation of anti-diabetes medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, the editorial says.

The weight loss people have after surgery is key to improving diabetes outcomes as well as heart health, Tan said. Weight loss improves the body’s response to insulin, reduces inflammation and helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It can also improve arthritis so people can exercise more, she added.

The findings from this study also support the heart health benefits of weight loss surgery. People in the surgery group had significantly higher HDL or “good” cholesterol and lower triglycerides, a type of fat that can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Intuitive Machines: Moon lander pictured on its side with snapped leg

The first clear images of the Odysseus robot on the surface of the Moon have just been released.

They include a view of the American mission lying to one side, having broken a leg on touchdown.

The spacecraft continued to work afterwards, however, sending back data about the lunar environment.

Odysseus made history last Thursday by becoming the first ever privately built vehicle to complete a soft landing on the Moon.

And despite the awkward orientation it eventually adopted, the robot should be celebrated, said US space agency administrator Bill Nelson.

Nasa had contracted the operating company, Houstonbased Intuitive Machines, to carry six scientific instruments on board the lander.

“Odysseus is a success,” the agency chief told reporters. “We are in the sixth day of what was planned as an eight-day mission, and we’re still receiving data from

those instruments.”

Odysseus’ descent, clearly, was a little hairy.

The robot was supposed to come straight down, vertically, with a speed of one metre per second.

In the event, it had navigation issues whereby the onboard computer couldn’t process precise laser range-finding data fast enough and had to rely solely on optical cameras for altitude and velocity information.

It meant the craft actually came in three times faster than it should have, and with an element of sideways movement that resulted in a skid.

“The landing gear took the bulk of the load and we broke one or two possibly landing gear,” explained Steve Altemus, IM’s CEO and cofounder.

“We sat there upright with the engine firing for a period of time. And then, as it wound down, the vehicle just gently tipped over, and in our simulation with 1/6 gravity, we showed that it took about two seconds.”

Odysseus is thought to be

Odysseus at the moment of touchdown. A support pole to the leg on the left is broken

resting on one of its yellow helium pressure tanks at an angle to the surface of roughly 30 degrees.

The craft was forced to communicate with Houston via its low-gain antennas. But once controllers got the hang of how the signals were being sent, a broad data stream was established.

Nasa’s six instruments were focused on testing new navigation technologies and studying the surface conditions at the landing site.

Susan Lederer, who oversaw all the experiments, said the agency teams and IM staff worked side by side to make the mission a success.

“We were collaboratively working together to find solutions so that the spacecraft could live and the payloads could get their data,” she told reporters.

“We went from basically a cocktail straw of data coming back to a boba tea-sized (very large) straw of data coming back.”

Sports International

Pogba ‘shocked’ by four-year suspension for doping

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba says he is “sad, shocked and heartbroken” after being banned from football for four years for a doping offence.

The France international, 30, was provisionally suspended in September after a drugs test found elevated levels of testosterone in his system.

“Everything I have built in my professional career has been taken away from me,” he said in a statement.

The former Manchester United player added he would appeal.

Pogba was randomly tested after Juventus’ first match of the season on 20 August.

The positive test was confirmed by Italy’s national anti-doping tribunal in a second sample in

October, and the anti-doping prosecutor’s office requested a four-year suspension.

Juventus told the BBC they received notification from the anti-doping tribunal on Thursday morning.

Pogba said he believed the verdict was “incorrect” and he would “never knowingly or deliberately” dope.

“When I am free of legal restrictions, the full story will become clear,” he said.

“As a professional athlete I would never do anything to enhance my performance by using banned substances and have never disrespected or cheated fellow athletes and supporters of any of the teams I have played for, or against.”

Premier League: EFL funding deal could be ‘imposed’ on clubs

Premier League clubs have been warned that if they fail to reach a funding deal with the English Football League it will be imposed on them by the new Football Regulator.

The warning came from Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who was speaking at the FT Business of Football Conference.

Top-flight clubs met for two hours to discuss the issue on Thursday and have agreed to meet again on 11 March.

It is still not clear if there will be a vote on EFL funding at that meeting.

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters pulled out of his own speaking engagement at the FT event in order to prioritise Thursday’s meeting.

Frazer repeated on a number of occasions that the new regulator, who she insisted will be appointed ‘in this Parliamentary session’ was chiefly tasked with ensuring financial stability across the game rather than becoming involved in disputes.

But if they fail to reach agreement, she outlined what will happen.

“We don’t want this to be an issue for the regulator,” said Frazer. “It is clear football should resolve the issues for football.

“It is in the Premier League and EFL’s interests to come to a deal but it is clear if they don’t the regulator will.”

Agreement over how the ‘New

Deal’ should be financed has proved elusive over the past few months.

Some clubs have felt the ‘bigger’ members of the top flight should pay a greater percentage.

The overall sum, which will be partly tied to future TV revenues, is expected to be around £900m over six years.

There has also been disagreement over financial regulations to be implemented in the Championship.

Regulator to have ‘limited powers’

Frazer said the regulator will have ‘limited powers’, which

would not involve having a view on whether nation states are the right bodies to own Premier League clubs.

“All the regulator is doing is looking at financial stability,” she said. “That is appropriate. Foreign investment is part of the economy and makes the game competitive.

“The Premier League is a massive cultural export. We don’t want to do anything to damage that. Whether a foreign state should own the club is not in this bill. We want people who run clubs to run them well.” (BBC)

ATP Tour announces Saudi Arabia ‘strategic partnership’

The ATP has announced a “multiyear strategic partnership” with Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund as the state increases its involvement in professional tennis.

The ATP rankings, plus the year-end world number one award, will be named after Saudi’s Public Investment Fund.

PIF on-court branding will be seen at some of the ATP Tour’s biggest events, starting at Indian Wells next month.

The value of PIF’s investment in the men’s tour has not been revealed.

“Our strategic partnership with PIF marks a major moment for tennis,” said ATP chief executive Massimo Calvelli.

“It’s a shared commitment to propel the future of the sport.”

PIF will also sponsor Tour events in Miami, Madrid and

recent years.

Saudi Arabia has invested huge amounts of money into football, golf, Formula 1 and boxing in

But the nation has long been criticised for its poor human rights record, particularly about its treatment of women and criminalisation of homosexuality.

WHY IS SAUDI INVESTMENT SO SIGNIFICANT?

The ATP already holds a professional event in Saudi Arabia after signing a five-year deal to host the Next Gen ATP Finals there last year, with the first edition held in Jeddah in November.

Several big-name stars have already played in lucrative exhibitions there, while a new event featuring Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and three other Grand Slam winners will take place in October.

Last month, 22-time major champion Nadal signed up as an ambassador for the Saudi Arabian Tennis Federation.

The partnership with the ATP could signal the start of further Saudi influence and investment, with PIF saying the move will be a “catalyst for growth of the global tennis landscape”.

Paul Pogba made 233 appearances during two spells with Manchester United before re-signing for Juventus in 2022

Some Premier League clubs feel the ‘bigger’ members of the top flight should pay a greater percentage

The ATP already holds a professional event in Saudi Arabia after signing a five-year deal to host the Next Gen ATP Finals there last year

Beijing - part of the ATP 1000 circuit, the highest level beneath the Grand Slam events - as well as the season-ending ATP Finals.

Grass-court events held in the UK - including Queen’s and Eastbourne - were also offered an

on-court sponsorship deal with PIF, but the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) turned the opportunity down in January.

Sports International

Namibia’s Loftie-Eaton hits fastest T20 international century

Namibia’s Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton broke the record for the fastest century in T20 international cricket with a 33-ball hundred against Nepal.

The 22-year-old hit 11 fours and eight sixes before falling for 101 off 36 deliveries in Kirtipur, Nepal.

Nepal’s Kushal Malla, who was playing in this game, held

the previous record for a 34ball century against Mongolia in September.

Loftie-Eaton took 2-29 as Nepal were bowled out for 186 in pursuit of 207.

The match was the first in a tri-series also featuring the Netherlands. The final will be played on 5 March.

West Indies’ Chris Gayle holds

the record for the fastest century in all T20 cricket, reaching three figures off 30 balls for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Pune Warriors in the Indian Premier League in 2013.

Both teams will be playing in this summer’s Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA. Namibia are ranked 11th in the world, with Nepal 16th. (BBC)

Lord Coe says athletes would be ‘moronic’ to take part in event where doping allowed

The Enhanced Games, a proposed Olympics-style event where doping is allowed, is nonsense, says World Athletics president Lord Coe.

The event, founded by Australian businessman Aron D’Souza in 2023, would not be subject to World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) rules.

D’Souza said athletes set to take part in this summer’s Paris Olympics have expressed an interest in competing.

Coe said anyone who does is “moronic” and would face a lengthy ban.

“I can’t really get excited about it,” Coe said at a news conference before the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, which run from Friday to Sunday.

“There’s only one message and that is if anybody is moronic enough to feel that they want to take part in that, and they are from the traditional, philosophical end of our sport, they’ll get banned and they’ll get banned for a long time.”

Earlier this month, former world champion swimmer James

Former world champion James Magnussen has agreed to come out of retirement to compete in the Enhanced Games

Magnussen agreed to come out of retirement to compete in the Enhanced Games and attempt to swim faster than the 50m freestyle record, which was set in 2009, in return for $1m (£792,600).

The event is planned to include athletics, swimming, weightlifting, gymnastics and combat sports, though no date or venue has yet been set.

D’Souza said athletes who have

contacted him are keen to “make some real money” during nonOlympic years.

Wada has called the Enhanced Games “a dangerous and irresponsible concept”.

“I’m sure there are crazy things happening in other sectors, we occasionally get them,” added Coe.

“I really don’t get sleepless nights over it. It’s not going to be a page turner, is it?” (BBC)

Andy Murray wants to play in Olympic Games before retirement

Murray eyeing Paris double before retirement

Murray won gold in the men’s singles at London 2012 and Rio 2016, and told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he wants another shot at Olympic glory in Paris.

Murray ranks his gold medal from London 2012, when he defeated Roger Federer in the final, as the top achievement in his career.

“Hopefully I can get the chance to compete at another one,” said Murray, who is ranked 67th in the world.

To earn direct entry into the Olympic men’s singles, Murray must be inside the top 56 of the ATP rankings on 10 June.

Murray also indicated he plans to return to the French Open this year for what would be the final time.

Since returning from hip resurfacing surgery in 2019, which he thought would end his career, Murray has only played once on the Roland Garros clay, losing in the 2020 first round to Switzerland’s Stan Wawrinka.

The clay-court tournament, which is the second major of the season, starts on 26 May.

On how he might bow out, Murray added: “There’s no right way of finishing your career and everyone is different so what might be the right way for Federer might not be the right way for [Rafael] Nadal, might not be the right way for [Novak] Djokovic.”

‘AWFUL FEELING’ AS MURRAY LOSES AGAIN

Murray won his first Grand Slam title at the 2012 US Open, ending Britain’s 77-year wait for a Wimbledon men’s singles champion in 2013 and adding a second victory at the All England Club in 2016.

Murray is also a five-time Australian Open runner-up, as well as a French Open finalist in 2016.

A frustrating start to the 2024 season, where Murray has now won just two of eight matches, has led to further questions about when he might decide to retire.

After losing his opening four matches of the year, the Scot said he was in a “terrible moment” but added he “won’t quit”.

Murray ended a run of six straight defeats by beating France’s Alexandre Muller in Doha and claimed another win in Dubai on Monday against Canada’s Denis Shapovalov.

But the 2017 champion was unable to trouble in-form Humbert, whose sharp attacking shots were too much for Murray’s defence.

Murray was broken twice in the first set and, after losing serve again early in the second, his annoyance was clear on court.

“I don’t have a clue what I’m doing. Awful feeling,” shouted Murray, who did not earn a single break point.

The Scot continued to struggle in the returning games - winning just seven receiving points throughout the match - as recent Marseille champion Humbert served out to secure a straight-set win.

Murray earned his 500th career hard-court win in the Dubai first round, joining Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Andre Agassi and Rafael Nadal in reaching the milestone

Coming in at 62-3, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton helped Namibia post 206-4

Sports International

Cristiano Ronaldo banned for gesture to fans after ‘Messi’ chants

Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been banned for one match for “provoking fans” following the Saudi Pro League win over Al-Shabab.

Al Shabab supporters chanted “Messi” - Ronaldo’s long-term rival Lionel Messi - after Sunday’s 3-2 defeat in Riyadh.

Portugal captain Ronaldo, 39, cupped his hand to his ear and made a gesture to the fans.

He has also been fined 30,000 Saudi Riyals (£6,300) by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF).

The SAFF disciplinary and

ethics committee said Ronaldo cannot appeal against the decision.

Ronaldo opened the scoring from the penalty spot, but AlShabab twice came from behind before Talisca scored an 87thminute winner.

Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr on a free transfer from Manchester United in December 2022 for reportedly the biggest football salary in history.

He has scored 20 goals in 22 league games this season for AlNassr, who are second in the table behind Al-Hilal. (BBC)

James stars in dramatic LA Lakers comeback win against LA Clippers

LeBron James scored 34 points to help the Los Angeles Lakers overcome a 21-point deficit in the final quarter to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 116-112.

The 39-year-old scored 19 of his points in that period to quieten the home fans who had seen the Clippers lead 98-77.

Anthony Davis also contributed 20 points and 12 rebounds for the Lakers.

“I was in the zone, can’t really describe it. That was just the feeling - when you feel like everything you put up is going in,” said James.

“[You] wish you could stay in it forever. [You] feel you have a superpower.

“My team-mates did a great job of continuing to find me, and I then just tried to dictate the tempo,

dictate the game as we started making a run for it and getting the game closer.”

Kawhi Leonard top scored for the Clippers with 26 points but missed a shot to level with seven seconds left as they fell to a second successive defeat.

“When you’re up 21 points you can’t lose a game like that,” said Clippers coach Tyronn Lue.

“I don’t think that’s ever happened since I’ve been coaching - to lose a 21-point lead in the fourth quarter.”

The Clippers are fourth in the Western Conference standings, having played 57 of the 82 games in the regular season. The Lakers, who have won seven of their past 10, are ninth, having played 60 games.

Elsewhere, Luka Doncic registered 30 points, 11 rebounds and 16 assists as the mid-table Dallas Mavericks beat the struggling Toronto Raptors 136125.

Nikola Jokic also got a triple double - the 124th of his career - as he contributed 14 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists for the Denver Nuggets in a 11796 victory over the Sacramento Kings. It was a fourth successive win for the Nuggets who are third in the Western Conference.

DeMar DeRozan scored 35 points for the mid-table Chicago Bulls as they secured a double overtime 132-123 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are second in the Eastern Conference. (BBC)

Rashford says commitment to Manchester United cannot be questioned

Marcus Rashford says people questioning his commitment to Manchester United need to show “more humanity”.

Rashford, 26, has scored five goals for United this season and faced criticism about perceived attitude issues.

He missed United’s FA Cup win over Newport, days after he was reportedly seen in nightspots in Northern Ireland.

“If you ever question my commitment to United, that’s when I have to speak up,” the England forward said in a piece for The Players’ Tribune.

“It’s like somebody questioning my entire identity, and everything I stand for as a man.

“I grew up here. I have played for this club since I was a boy. My family turned down life-changing money when I was a kid so I could

Manchester-born Rashford came through the United youth ranks before making his first-team debut as an 18-year-old in 2016.

He has gone on to make 391 appearances for the Red Devils,

scoring 128 goals.

Rashford finished last season with a career-best tally of 30 goals, but he has been unable to make the same impact this time around as United have struggled to build on their first campaign under manager

Erik ten Hag. They sit sixth in the Premier League after 26 games.

“I can take any criticism. I can take any headline. From podcasts, social media and the papers. I can take it,” Rashford added.

“But if you start questioning my commitment to this club and my love for football and bringing my family into it, then I’d simply ask you to have a bit more humanity.”

Rashford has faced questions about his work-rate on the pitch and criticism about his off-field conduct.

In January, there were reports he had been seen in Belfast nightspots before missing training at United a day later through illness and then the Newport game.

He was dropped from the starting line-up for a Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle in November

because Ten Hag was unhappy at him being seen out celebrating his birthday just hours after a 3-0 defeat by rivals Manchester City. United face City again this weekend.

Another disciplinary measure saw Rashford put on the substitutes’ bench for United’s Premier League game at Wolves last season after oversleeping and being late for a team meeting.

Rashford believes there is a “tone which other footballers don’t get” in media coverage about him, putting that partly down to his high-profile child food poverty campaign which prompted a government U-turn in 2020.

“It seems like they’ve been waiting for me to have a human moment so they can point the finger and say, ‘See? See who he really is?’” Rashford wrote.

Ronaldo has scored 42 goals in 48 appearances in all competitions since joining Al-Nassr

The 39-year-old scored 19 of his points in that period to quieten the home fans who had seen the Clippers lead 98-77

Rashford made his Manchester United debut as an 18-year-old after coming through the youth ranks

wear this badge.”

Sports National

TCI footballers show grit against Guyana but lose 2-1

The Turks and Caicos Islands U20 football team continue to improve and in their most recent clash with Guyana at the CONCACAF U20 Championship Qualifiers in Antigua and Barbuda, they showed grit, but in the end, the scoring prowess of Ezekial Rowland proved to be too much.

The midfielder scored in the 32nd and 55th minute to ensure that the South American country emerged victorious.

The 2-1 scoreline could have been different since the game started with missed opportunities by the TCI youngsters.

In the 23rd minute, a glint of hope shone for the Turks and Caicos as Keniel Clervil unleashed a shot, only to witness it veer wide. Progressing to the 25th minute, another opportunity presented itself where Cory Williams took aim, yet his endeavour was deftly parried. The 37th minute brought forth another pivotal moment; Christopher Louisy seized the chance, but his strike failed to find the back of the net, leaving supporters yearning for the elusive goal. As the clock ticked towards its final moments, seeing

two goals secured by Guyana, a surge of triumph electrified the atmosphere. Emmanuel Martin, a symbol of hope for the Turks and Caicos Islands MNT, scored in the 90th minute, igniting jubilation among fans watching from home.

Earlier in the week, TCI lost 7-0 to El Salvador, and 2-1 to the host nation.

Guyana drew their clash with El Salvador 2-2.

TCI’s next clash is on Saturday against the strong Surinamese side, who had defeated Guyana 4-1 earlier in the week.

Cope attends CONCACAF’s Venue and Match Coordinator Course

As part of CONCACAF’s overarching strategy to foster football within the region, various courses are conducted to support member associations. The CONCACAF Venue and Match Coordinator Course, held in Houston, Texas, USA, on February 27-28, was used to equip individuals with the necessary skills to fulfil the role of venue and match coordinator for CONCACAF competitions.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association was represented by local match commissioner, Andrea Cope. The curriculum encompassed a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities and functions of a venue and match coordinator, both in theoretical contexts and practical scenarios.

Participants had the opportunity to observe the operational dynamics of the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup match between Houston Dynamo (USA) and St. Louis FC (USA), as well as a double-header CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup match. The course culminated with a robust assessment to gauge the participants’ comprehension of

the workshop content.

Through her participation in the course, Andrea Cope was armed with practical exposure, fresh and valuable insights into the pivotal duties of a venue and match coordinator. She also gained an understanding of the meticulous planning required for seamless match execution, encompassing prematch arrangements and onsite operational oversight. By witnessing the live action of the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup and the electrifying CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup matches, Andrea observed first-hand the practical implementation of the concepts covered by CONCACAF in the training.

“Thanks to the TCIFA for giving me the experience necessary to embark on this journey,” commented Ms Cope. “I don’t take the opportunity lightly. I look forward to representing the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association with great enthusiasm. The knowledge and skills gained will not only benefit me but the TCIFA as well. Once again, thank you.”

Andrea Cope represented the TCI at the event

TCI had opportunities to defeat Guyana

TCI U20 footballers have improved since their opening clash

A total of 14 teams, comprising156 players, competed for the titles

CHHS and Louise Garland win U18 and U15 rugby titles

The Clement Howell High School (CHHS) and the Louise Garland Thomas High School were crowned the U18 and U15 champions when the Inter-Island High School Rugby Championship was played at the Meridian Field in Grace Bay on Friday last.

A total of 14 teams, comprising 156 players, competed for the titles.

Organisers of the event, the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) had the help of 20 Brock University students.

The visiting students, who had been in the TCI for 10 days, had visited over 25 schools to deliver positive social messages and to teach rugby skills.

After the completion of pool play and semifinal matches, Louise Garland faced Provo Middle School in the final of the U15 competition.

Alexander Hernandez sounded the whistle and Aiden Docherty from Provo Middle School kicked off and the contest was on. Excited voices rang across the pitch as the Louise Garland side flung the rugby ball from side to side seeking a chink in the defense. Strong runs were met by exciting tackles as the smaller Provo Middle School players were forced to dive on several occasions to seize the Louise Garland tags. Eventually, Jordan was fed a pass in space, and he raced down the touch line to score the first try of the match. Play went back and forth with Provo Middle School matching

Louise Garland try for try. The score was tied at 2-2 before Louise Garland managed to break free from their own end and score the final try of the match, winning 3-2.

In the U18 final, CHHS faced off against Louise Garland in what turned out to be another electrifying championship clash.

Louise Garland needed to utilise some players from their U15 team and their coach did his best to delay the start time of the final to give his players as much rest as possible.

At the kickoff, CHHS players showed plenty of flair in trying

to outstep the defense, but their opponents defended their half with vigor. As the game progressed, the eventual winners started to pick holes in Louise Garland’s defence and eventually Rayshawn Rigby dotted down for a score. Louise Garland struck back through a quick offensive series and tied the match. However, CHHS were not to be outdone and managed to score three more tries before Louise Garland pulled within two. It was however CHHS’s title and with less than a minute remaining, they scored to seal a 5-2 win.

According to information from the TCIRFU, members were “very happy with the teams and players turnout”.

“Rugby is now firmly embedded in the hearts of many young players and we look forward to seeing these young players improve their skills in the coming months.”

Minister Hon Rachel Taylor, PS Cheryl Anne Jones and Sports Commission Director Jarrett Forbes were at the tournament.

The minister said that she was “Filled with a sense of appreciation, as we witnessed

the level of partnership between the Rugby Union and that of the Departments of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Education by extension.

“This level of support strengthens opportunities for our youth to learn, grow and thrive in the sport of rugby and at the same time promote discipline, teamwork and leadership skills.

“The days spent visiting the schools around the islands with members from Brock University is a testament of the inclusive approach taken to engage our students.

“The visit from representatives of Brock University also provided an opportunity for further discussions in relation to sports tourism and educational partnerships with our Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.

“We anticipate this new relationship that will further advance our efforts in the area of sports and education.”

The excellent condition of Meridian Field was mentioned by all government parties and TCIRFU President Keith Burant explained that growing grass in the TCI is not easy and requires constant attention and the expenditure of money for water, irrigation system, fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides.

“Most of all a playing field needs love. The rugby field should be considered by all as a safe space and the TCIRFU encourages anybody to visit the field in order to relax, exercise meditate, study or plan,” Burant added.

U18 champions, the Clement Howell High School with President of the TCIRFU, Keith Burant