TC Weekly News March 23 - 29, 2024

UK to deploy warship to TCI amid Haiti’s unrest

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Amidst the ongoing Haiti unrest, the UK will be deploying the warship HMS Trent to the Turks and Caicos Islands in a show of military support.

The move is meant to bolster TCI’s border security in response to the influx of Haitian migrants fleeing the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.

In addition to the warship, the UK will also provide a range of support to the territory, including additional patrol craft, border security upgrades, and a package of new capabilities for law enforcement to the tune of £4.25m.

The Haitian migration crisis which has adversely affected the Turks and Caicos Islands for years, escalated when Haiti’s powerful criminal gangs, which were already in control of large parts of the capital city, Port-au-Prince, stormed the two largest prisons earlier this month, resulting in more than 4000 inmates escaping, further exacerbating the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.

As thousands of Haitians flee their homeland due to several factors, including political instability, gang violence, and economic hardship, the TCI continues to grapple with an influx of illegal migrants.

In this regard, the deployment of the warship, the HMS Trent, is part of a wider support package from

the UK to bolster TCI’s border security in response to the ongoing crisis in Haiti.

TCI’s Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick revealed the news during a press conference on Thursday, March 14.

Misick said: “The (HMS) Trent…is somewhere in the region and I believe that’s part of what is being discussed, deploying the HMS Trent around the TCI between here and Haiti and also other marine facilities we’re looking at doing as well, but part of what is going to happen with reconnaissance mission that arrived today, they would be assisting us in looking at the entire landscape to decide the threat level and what is needed.

He continued: “As you would know a very strong letter was written to His Majesty’s government, earlier this week, we’ve had contact with the foreign affairs committee chair and also the chair of the all-party group who asked very difficult questions in the House of Commons and also in the House of Lords”.

“Lord Cameron has made a generous statement publicly that the UK is committed to the safety and protection of the Turks and Caicos Islands and we intend to hold him to that,” Misick added.

A reconnaissance team from the UK Ministry of Defence, Home Office, and UK Border Force was dispatched to the TCI last week

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to assess what further support the islands require in addressing threats to national security following the deteriorating situation of Haiti.

Following a call on March 13, 2024, between Premier Charles Washington Misick, Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Minister for Immigration and Border Services, Arlington Musgrove and the Minister of the Overseas Territories, David Rutley MP, the FCDO also agreed to source an additional marine patrol craft for the TCI.

Along with the craft and policing equipment, the UK will send support for border security upgrades, including

drone surveillance, portable scanners, and new engines for the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources vessels.

The support package will also include new capabilities on forensics, body-worn cameras and CCTV.

Premier Misick stressed that tackling the potential threats that Haiti’s unrest poses to the TCI requires a comprehensive approach.

He pointed out that the TCI has aligned with regional partners to share information to identify and deal with “bad actors” undermining the security of the islands.

The HMS Trent has a crew of

65, a top speed of 24 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles.

It is armed with a 30mm cannon and a contingent of Royal Marines and can also deploy Merlin helicopters and unmanned aircraft.

The warship is expected to anchor between TCI and Haiti’s border and conduct joint activities with local law enforcement authorities and allies.

According to the Royal Navy, the vessel is designed for border patrols and defence diplomacy and is mainly used for tackling piracy and smuggling, protecting fisheries, counterterrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and search and rescue operations.

TCI Airport braces for thousands

travellers

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Over 10,000 travelers are expected to descend on the Howard Hamilton International Airport this weekend, which poses major congestion issues for the travelling public.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airport is bracing for the influx of travellers as the busy spring break season begins.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says travel volumes heading into the busy 2024 spring break travel season are already higher than in 2023, with the busiest period expected to be between March and April.

This means holidaymakers could

expect to see busier airports, longer security lines, and fuller planes.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) on Thursday, March 21, 2024 informed both domestic and international travellers about the anticipated surge in passenger traffic at Howard Hamilton International Airport (HHIA) on Saturdays, beginning with March 23 and continuing for the subsequent two months.

The TCIAA said: “On these peak travel days, passenger numbers are projected to exceed 10,000, posing considerable operational challenges.

To alleviate congestion within

the airport terminals, travellers are strongly advised not to arrive more than two hours before their scheduled flight times.

“It is recommended that all travelers consult their respective airlines well in advance of their travel dates.

“Given the anticipated high passenger volume, it is essential for passengers to remain updated on their flight schedules, potential delays, and any pertinent information provided by the airlines,” the TCIAA stressed.

The Airports Authority said it will continue to update travelers through its social media channels on Instagram and Facebook”

UK warship HMS Trent - Photo Royal Navy Facebook

Passengers arriving at the Howard Hamilton International Airport

of spring break

Surge in tourism causing water woes for TCI residents

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Due to an increase in tourism and local demand, residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands are experiencing water shortages, including reduced water pressure and water outages.

Residents in the TCI are already dreading the shortages which are expected to last until the end of April 2024, according to the Provo Water Company Limited.

Provo Water has implemented nightly water restrictions from 9:30pm to 6:00am through the end of April 2024 to fill the Suzie Turn tank, which supplies two-thirds of the island’s demand.

During this time, customers will experience reduced pressure and possible water outages at higher elevations.

In a notice to consumers on Monday, March 18, the company encouraged property owners to utilise a backup cistern where possible and to conserve water usage during this time.

“In the meantime, we are progressing the following projects to eliminate future restrictions and make the water network more resilient and reliable.”

Provo water said it is working on three projects to increase the water supply network in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“New City Water Transmission Main Project – A new water transmission main from the TCWC

Production Plant along June Plum, Gardenia Way, Kakeka Streets, and Garden Loop to Leeward Highway from the junction of Long Bay Hills Drive to the roundabout near Crackpot Kitchen will be completed by 31 May 2024. This pipeline upgrade will generally increase the water supply in the network.

“Leeward Highway Valve Replacement Project – We have proposed upsizing fittings at major junctions along Leeward Highway to be completed by 29 September 2024. These improvements to the central artery of the water supply network will increase the water flow to Suzie Turn Reservoir and customers west of Turtle Cove.

“Future Desalination Plant -

We have proposed a second water production plant. This new facility will be located towards Northwest Point and will serve the island’s western half, complementing the Grace Bay Plant, which will continue to supply the eastern half.”, the Water Company said.

In times of emergency, either plant will be capable of providing the entire island and ensuring uninterrupted access to water.

“We know water restrictions are inconvenient, and we appreciate your understanding during this period.”

The company said its long-term solutions are already underway and will extend beyond the peak season. We remain committed to providing a reliable water supply

to all residents and businesses in Providenciales.”

In light of the recent announcement, the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) of the Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged the significant pressure placed on the water supply by the continued surge in tourism and local demand.

Delano Arthur, the new Energy and Utilities Commissioner said he recognizes that the current situation is far from ideal.

“However, I assure the public that the EUD collaborates closely with PWC to identify and implement the best mitigation strategies.

“ It is our shared understanding that any disruption in water

service, for any reason, is an inconvenience, yet, given the current circumstances, these measures are deemed necessary.”

The Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) advises residents and businesses to utilize backup cisterns and to conserve water by repairing leaks, using water-efficient fixtures, and avoiding non-essential water use.

The EUD is working with Provo Water on several projects to increase the water supply and make the water network more resilient and reliable.

The EUD assures the public that these measures are necessary to ensure a reliable water supply for all residents and businesses in Providenciales.

(By Olivia Rose)

Air travel continues upward trend in 2024 – but cruise tourism suffers

January and February have been stellar months for the Turks and Caicos Islands for air travel, outpacing the same period in 2023.

January saw 61,924 air arrivals with 64,088 arrivals in February, numbers that saw a six percent increase over January 2023 which saw 58,413 arrivals and a 13.3 percent increase over February 2023 which saw 56,581 arrivals.

However, cruise visitors were lower in January and February 2024 when compared to the corresponding period for 2023.

The Grand Turk Cruise Centre welcomed 86,822 cruise passengers in January and 78,293 in February. The arrivals last January were slightly above that for this year, with 2023 pulling in 88,471 cruise passengers, a percentile difference of 1.89.

However, February’s arrivals

for 2024 were significantly lower, with an 18.56 percent difference, compared to 96,127 in February 2023.

Speaking on these preliminary figures was Minister of Tourism, Honourable Josephine Connolly, who said it was a bumper winter season for the destination.

“We entered the winter season with optimism based on our 2023 figures and our expectations were surpassed,” she said.

A significant upward trend was reflected this month, with arrivals at the Howard Hamilton International Airport on Saturday, March 9, being a staggering 10,077 passengers passing through the airport.

Connolly said that day “marked a pinnacle for us with the highest influx of arrivals for the season to date.

AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT

Meanwhile, as the Turks and Caicos Islands continue to attract increased visitors, the destination is working to ensure the comfort at the country’s main airport.

Recently, the TCI Airport Authority procured additional tents to provide a protective haven from the elements should the arrival line extend beyond the building. They have also started distribution of chilled bottles of water to ensure passengers remain cool during their wait.

As for departures, where the ongoing congestion continues to be a problem, the TCIAA advises that their Alleviation Project aimed to enhance passenger experience and minimise congestion at the airport is underway, as they work to advance the redevelopment project.

This project includes work to the immediate terminal building such as expanded vehicle dropoff area (completed), relocation of airline offices (completed), secondlevel security screening (ongoing), departure hold room expansion on the second level (ongoing), in-transit passenger screening and holding room (completed) and expansion of the departures and

boarding gates (ongoing).

Meanwhile, to enhance efficiency during peak periods, and mitigate delays, the Airport Authority has also added apron controllers to closely monitor aircraft parking and turnaround times.

They have also issued a Notice to Airmen restricting General Aircraft operations between 12pm and 3pm on Saturdays.

According to the TCIAA , this prioritises airlines, potentially reducing overall air traffic at the Airport and alleviating airspace congestion.

Other initiatives include increased security personnel, strategically positioning hosts to ensure efficient flow in high foot traffic areas and live entertainment to serenade passengers. (DELANA ISLES)

No water for households after 9:30 pm

Energy and Utilities Commissioner

Delano Arthur

SAME-SEX MARRIAGE

The Supreme Court has handed down a landmark judgment, granting Timothy Haymon - who is married to Richard Sankar - the right to work in the TCI under the Constitution as awarded to any married couple. Justice Anthony Gruchot handed down the written judgment this past Tuesday, March 12, having heard the case since November 2022. In his judgment, Justice Gruchot stated: “I express my gratitude to the parties for their patience in awaiting this decision. This is a sensitive subject and I have been presented with weighty authorities to which I have given careful consideration.” Haymon and Sankar were the plaintiffs in the matter, seeking several declarations related to same-sex marriage in the Islands, the right to work and fundamental rights under the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution.

Representing the couple were Tim Prudhoe and Yuri Saunders. Appearing for the respondents in the matter - former Director of Immigration, Derek Been and the Attorney General - were Ivan Hare KC and Clemar Hippolyte. In essence, the details of the case are that Sankara citizen of the TCI as of May 19, 2021 - married his partner on November 2, 2020, in Florida.

On August 16, 2021, Haymon - who was already in possession of a homeowner permit - applied for a residence permit as per the Immigration Ordinance reflecting his spousal relationship to Sankar. On October 1, 2021, the director of immigration refused the application. The couple then sought relief through the court, filing their application under section 21 of the Constitution which provides for the enforcement of the fundamental rights and freedoms of an individual protected under Part 1 of the Constitution. In his judgment, Gruchot wrote: “The limiting of the grant of a spousal resident permit to only heterosexual couples in my view is discriminatory but not on the basis of marriage. What are your thoughts?

Not news

Good for them, this should not be news, it should be normal procedure for any married couple.

Should have never gotten so far

My thoughts are that if this had all been dealt with administratively - then the issue would not have advanced.

Now that it has then legally and Constitutionally it (the legal decision) will not be overturned.

So, who do you blame from a TCI perspective?

Uncle Tom says jump and we jump

We are all just puppets on a string ready to do Massa’s bidding. Have we forgotten Sodom and Gomorrah? These activities are not in line with our Christian values. We sing to the “White Man’s” tune all the time. Whatever Uncle Tom feels is good for him, has to be good for the world, but it should not be.

Look at marijuana, when the US and other Western powers denounced weed, a natural herb, we had to adhere.

They promote alcohol, which has destroyed families; and tobacco, which is known to cause cancer, yet we never questioned those things. We are always being programmed. Now all of a sudden, the US can financially benefit from weed,

and all is good with the herb again.

Can we not stand on our principles? Can we not retain our values? Or will we allow them to rewrite everything? Maybe it will be Adam and Steve in their version of the Bible next if we don’t hold true to our values.

Personal vendetta

Why are our courts tied up with something that is nothing more than a personal vendetta of Michael Misick’s?

Would not this court time be much more effectively used if it were allocated to clearing up the backlog of criminal prosecutions?

Only in TCI

Only in TCI! It will go to appeal and eventually, the TCIG must sort this mess out.

Cultural imperialism and racism

The Turks and Caicos Islands and its people pride themselves as a Christian Nation where the teachings of the Bible, Jesus Christ and following the tenets of the Holy Scripture, remain an aspiration that the people and Church all aspire to.

There is a “global human rights” campaign by the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union and the United Nations to force the gay, liberal and woke agenda on the rest of the world.

TCI Christian leaders see marriage as a Holy Union and a sacred Communion with their God and an institution between a Man and a Woman. Not two women or two men.

Anything else such as the Supreme Court’s ruling is considered “anathema” and “ abhorrent” in the eyes of the people and the TCI Church. The preamble to the Constitution reads “the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a God-fearing people with convictions based on sound Christian culture, values and principles, tolerant of other religions”.

So, while there is tolerance, the main tenet of TCI’s cultural norms remains that of a God–fearing people based on a “ sound Christian culture”, which does not include beliefs, practices and norms which fall outside of that model.

This ruling by Justice Gruchot is the culmination of efforts by the “conservative” British Government that ironically enacted Gay Marriage in the UK and has governed like any woke, liberal or pro-LGBTQ party. In fact, the inevitable removal of this ToryConservative regime in the UK will lead to an intensification of the Gay agenda in the UK and the overseas territories by the incoming Labour Party, which is much more liberal.

Seers and “alert people” believe that the “end is here”. The Cultural and political

push in this Gay direction came from former Governor Dakin who was relentless in pushing an agenda that was contrary to the beliefs and aspirations of the TCI, using doublespeak, ambiguity and triangulation in forcing TCI politicians to follow his lead.

As Defacto Premier, Dakin campaigned daily to see gay marriage as law and policy in the TCI and to empower illegal migrants at the same time.

This push came in the absence of any public expression of support from TCI government or opposition to establish a public policy platform towards these “nether-ends”.

It comes as no surprise that the judges would take their cue from these ‘undermining efforts’ of the former Governor and not following the strict “letter of the Law” found in the TCI’s Constitution.

The end all is that the UK, their people and cultural adherents are here in the TCI and are forcing a policy on the Islands which the people do not support, and in sum it is cultural imperialism, somewhat racist because one set of people are forcing their will on another grouping.

Breaching TCI laws

It comes as no surprise that this ruling was made. Article 10 of the TCI’s Constitution provides clearly and succinctly, that marriage is a union between a man and a woman. It reads, “Every unmarried man and woman of marriageable age (as determined by or under any law) has the right to marry a person of the opposite sex and found a family”. With the transgender movement taking the world by storm it is a nuanced and much debated issue and question, what is a woman?

This is an attempt to obfuscate what’s written in law, proven in science and basic logic. Two men unless some doctor intervenes with “weird science” cannot make a child. Even so, the Privy Council in the case of the Cayman Islands has upheld the provision that marriage is a union between a man and a woman.

For the judge to rule otherwise, sanction alleged marriages of convenience, ignoring article 10, he is making a new law that is in breach of TCI law. After the Nation of Kenya banned gay marriage the low-level British Broadcasting Corporation BBC and the British Political classes, called it “wrong”. The US, UK, and European Union all threatened Kenya with economic sanctions and financial cut-offs despite

95 illegal migrants seized by Marine Branch in TCI waters

Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch this week intercepted a vessel in the French Cay area carrying 82 men and 13 women.

The vessel was spotted at about 6:15pm this past Tuesday, March 19. The passengers were all detained and handed over to the Immigration Task Force for processing.

Marine Commander, Assistant Superintendent of Police Everet Warrican said information received after 2pm indicated an illegal sloop

was spotted 28 nautical miles south off the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Partner agencies – Border Force, TCI Regiment, Fisheries Maritime Resource Management, Immigration and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (HMBS Bahamas) assisted with the interception.

ASP Warrican stated: “There are dangers associated with illegal migration, especially by sea. Not only are you risking your safety but that of officers escorting you to land.

what an absolute majority of the Kenyan people say and support.

It has reached the level of global policy and they are seeking to force their will on the people of the world. The ruling in the TCI is wrong and should be appealed. The Learned Attorney General is best advised to appeal the decision of the Supreme Court because it must not be allowed to stand.

Local writer and community leader, in the TCI, Mr Drexwell Seymour opines that “... despite the rights of individuals, they must respect and honour the laws of the country. Our law is clear as night and day and the judge knows that and people that want to live in this country must know the law and respect the desires of the local people.” Mr Seymour underscores the point well, “Despite what the judge stated, our Immigration Department did not discriminate against the couple because of their sexual orientation. The Immigration Department denied them spousal rights because marriage is between a man and a woman. That is not discrimination. That is our law.”

It is time for the PDM, PNP, church leaders, civil society, and leaders like the Hon Seymour, ‘come forward’, deal with this issue and speak truth to power. It is possible for this to be a unifying moment and for the Politicos to unite in sending a resounding message to the UK to back and take “your gay agenda elsewhere”.

How much more??

This generation, “x”, “Y” or “Z” have been reared in a “post-biblical” era, where their parents may have been Godfearing and Bible-driven but there is now a “falling away” of these sacred beliefs, norms and trends.

So the TCI is rife for takeover by these strange laws and people, including the youth have gone away into a prodigal land where they no longer care about biblical beliefs and what their parents believed. So, the ruling by the court is

“Illegal migration poses significant risks to individuals and communities. It fuels criminal networks, exploits vulnerable people, and undermines the integrity of our borders. The RTCIPF will not tolerate such activities. Those who facilitate or support illegal migration will face the full force of the law. Let us work together to protect the safety and well-being of everyone in our community.”

The RTCIPF continues to encourage anyone with information

culturally possible. The judge created a tension between two governing norms, ie (1.) the “definition of marriage between a man and a woman” and (2.) the so-called “right not to be discriminated against”.

These norms have nothing to do with each other, they remain mutually exclusive containing an integrity of their own, one cannot override the other, as the court did in this case. It would have been possible to declare that the gay couple was discriminated if article 10 (1) of the Constitution was silent, which it is not, on marriage being a union between a man and a woman.

If spousal and marital rights were being sought then they were “barking up the wrong tree”. In like manner, the judge went out on a tangent of his own to suggest that there was no definition of the word spouse in article 10(4), which reads (4) “Spouses shall be entitled to equal rights and shall be subject to equal responsibilities as between themselves and as regards their children both during marriage and, if the marriage is dissolved, on and after dissolution, but this equality of rights and responsibilities shall be subject to such arrangements or measures as may be agreed, or as may be ordered by a court, in the interests of their children.”

There could be no clearer definition that Article 10(4.) spoke directly and clearly to a heterosexual union and not a homosexual one. There is no scope in that part of the Constitution to create a new interpretation of the word “spouse”. It has to take its meaning from 10(1) which deals with marriage being a union between a man and a woman. The ruling was wrong, in breach of the constitution and must be appealed.

This debate must end in proper leadership from the major political parties, a line being drawn by the church and a reaffirmation of TCI’s public policy position that marriage is a union between a man and a woman. Most egregious is the application to force the Government to enact laws that suits these people and their way of Life. Nothing could be more

about this incident to help with the investigation.

The public is further advised to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, and anonymously give any information on illegal activity.

wrong, condescending and imperialistic.

Prophetic indeed

Today’s intellectuals prefer to separate the scriptural from the temporal but those who believe in scripture see events like this as prophetic in all essence. The Christian community calls this lifestyle wrong and “abominable”.

Biblical depictions of kings, governments and systems in the latter years of earth, today, depict the system of the antichrist as the “King”. Daniel 11;37 most accurately predicts that this king will not “regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any God for he shall magnify himself above all.” The operative language here is that he does not regard the desire of women.

The global onslaught of pushing the gay agenda on mankind and the world has commenced in earnest. This must be seen as a misinterpretation of the law and the constitution but in conformity with global trends to depart from the faith. Holding to the tenets of heterosexual marriage is a standard set by Scripture but Paul in his 2nd letter to the Thessalonians chapter 2, v 3, stated “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition”.

Again, the language ‘impacting is there will be a falling way first’, of standards, morals, decency and in our case, any respect for the rule of law or the standards that Turks and Caicos Islanders, from the old school, hold dear to their hearts. This will not sit well with the local population but the UK, their people and the courts do not care. It is “their will” that comes first

Interpreted or amended?

This

Residents are also encouraged to download the CrimeStoppers P3 app and share information.

law” seems basically to have “amended it” through judicial gymnastics of his own. Simply put a residency permit does not give rise to a work permit or the “right to work. Simply the right to reside and not to confer additional rights. Furthermore, the bestowing of Turks and Caicos Islander status or rights flowing from it is a privilege not a right that anyone is entitled to even if you meet the criteria for consideration, the Status Commission doesn’t have to issue it anything.

This “suit is an incursion and it is a backdoor to TCIslanders status”, as seen by some. The Attorney General should appeal the ruling. A line has been drawn in the sand and it should not be crossed. Either you fight for your country or you don’t deserve to have one.

The question is, do you have fights in the political high command of the TCI who will fight for “what’s right” and not be there for what they “can get”. PDM and PNP are on notice this election to take this issue and fight to the “lines”.

It really begs the question will this present crop of candidates see this as a fight that needs to be taken and or whether they, like the Brits, do not care. This current government and the next one will be obliged and challenged to change the law to address these issues. Do they have that fight in them or do they agree with the rulings of the court?

Dark Days

Natives under attack! If it’s not from immigration it is from the White Man’s agenda. The TCI is crumbling.

These Euro-minded individuals who run the Western World always know best, but I can remember the good old days of Christian values on these lands when our children had discipline, we had a purpose and our politicians were for the people.

These days they sin their souls, bow to their Masters and sell the TCI for a few dollars. Shame on you all!!!

The small vessel carried 95 persons (RTCIPF photo)

TCIG to invest $15m to develop advanced border protection

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) is developing advanced, sustainable strategies to protect its borders and mitigate the lasting effects of the Haitian migration crisis, including investing in digitalisation and linking systems with stakeholders to protect tourism.

In a recent address to the nation, Premier Charles Washington Misick emphasised the importance of safety and security, calling for collective responsibility to protect borders.

He highlighted the need for electronic borders, biometric identification systems, and regional partnerships to protect the country’s borders and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.

He said: “We’re spending something like $15m, honourable minister to have a completely electronic border system which would mean that before everybody legally lands in the country we would know who they are, but also the investment we’re making in digitalisation would make sure that we know exactly who is here.”

The digital border solution being implemented by the Government to address border security challenges will create an immigration management system, introduce eGates and pretravel authorisation, and enhance customer service.

This will make it easier to track migrants, protect the immigration system from abuse, and improve the efficiency of border crossings.

“It is not going to go anywhere, we have to treat it and I hate to use these words, like you would treat a chronic illness in the body, whether it be diabetes or heart disease or something, always have to find funding for medication and until there is stability in Haiti, both in terms of the politics but also in

terms of economics that is going to be the case.”

Misick made it clear that the TCI government is obligated to protect its borders and its people.

“We do not necessarily have anything against the Haitian people,” he said, “but we cannot accommodate 11 million people or even anything close to that.

“We have an obligation to look after our borders and our people, and we have to deal with the problem that’s in front of us at the moment.”

As part of the long-term strategic plans being put in place to protect the borders, the government will also be linking systems with stakeholders to protect the tourism sector.

He called on residents to do their part to help authorities counter illegal migration, especially those who are encouraging their families and friends to enter the territory illegally.

“We have a great little country here with great opportunities for growth.

“We all have an obligation to protect this rock, if you want to protect your way of life, you have a responsibility to protect our borders. We’re not going to

tolerate anybody undermining the security of our islands.”

TCIG is working with regional partners and sharing information to identify and deal with “bad actors” seeking to undermine the security of the islands, emphasising the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the Haitian migration crisis.

Misick said: “There are some really deep-seated problems in Haiti, particularly economic ones, and that’s the reason why people are leaving and they have been leaving even before now, but obviously anxious to leave in larger numbers.

And, so I think the TCI has taken the position that Haiti is not going to go anywhere.

“As members of the Caribbean community, we have a voice in CARICOM and through the Bahamas, because we didn’t go to the meeting in Jamaica. But we have aligned the Bahamas’ position and our position has always been the same, they (The Bahamas) obviously have the full membership and they sit at the centre and we sit at the periphery.

“So when they speak their voice carries more, more weight than our voices carry so we’ve always leveraged that relationship.”

Measles symptoms infographic

Measles alert: Residents urged to be vigilant

The Ministry of Health and Human Services is reminding the TCI public to be aware of the symptoms of measles, as there are outbreaks in neighbouring countries.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious illness.

Although there are no reported cases in the Turks and Caicos Islands to date, the Ministry urged residents especially those traveling outside of the Turks and Caicos Islands to be on the lookout for symptoms including a runny nose,

cough, red and watery eyes, and a rash.

The virus is spread through airborne droplets from an infected person. The MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles.

The Ministry said: “It is also very easy for measles to be imported from other regions through travel. To date, the Region of the Americas has reported a total of twenty-seven (27) confirmed cases of Measles in five (5) countries, eighteen (18) of these cases are in the

United States. Measles is a highly infectious disease.”

The rash begins about 7–18 days after exposure, usually on the face and upper neck. It spreads over about 3 days, eventually to the hands and feet. It usually lasts 5–6 days before fading.

Measles is transmitted by airborne droplets from the nose, mouth, or throat of an infected person. The virus can stay active and contagious in the air or on surfaces for two hours.

If other people breathe the

contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected.

Measles is so contagious that one infected person can infect nine out of 10 of their unvaccinated close contacts.

The period when a person is infectious and can spread the virus is within 7 to 10 days of exposure but can be up to 14 days.

Measles can cause severe disease, complications, and even death.

Unvaccinated people are at

highest risk of measles and its complications, including death. Anyone who has not been vaccinated or was vaccinated but did not develop immunity can become infected.

The Ministry said the number one way of preventing measles is through vaccination with the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

“The measles vaccine has been in use for over 50 years. It is safe

Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick

Providenciales sees uptick in robberies and burglaries

– police sets up a new unit to investigate

BY OLIVIA ROSE

An uptick in aggravated robberies and burglaries has prompted the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force to set up a dedicated robbery Policing Unit to investigate these crimes.

In recent weeks, there has been an increase in serious crime including aggravated robberies and burglaries, particularly in Providenciales.

A number of these incidents which were caught on CCTVs involved armed, masked men who stripped both locals and tourists of their money and other belongings during the ordeals.

In what could be described as a robbery spree over the last two weeks, assailants invaded villas, popular eateries, and other business places across the islands and have stolen vehicles and other valuables from unsuspecting victims.

There has also been a concerning rise in the theft of boats from various locations in the TCI.

The RTCIPF said these thefts represent a significant financial loss for the owners and a threat to public safety and security.

“The stolen boats range from small recreational vessels to medium crafts, and the perpetrators appear to be targeting them for either resale value, facilitation of illegal migration, or use in other illicit activities.

The Police Force said it is actively investigating these reported incidents, and urged boat owners to take precautionary measures to safeguard their property.

HE Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam in an address on Thursday, March 14, said over the last two weeks, there have been 18 arrests related to serious crime.

Although the Governor did not reveal how many of these arrests were directly related to the string of robberies, she disclosed that the Acting Commissioner Mr.Christopher Eyre has established a “dedicated

robbery Policing Team to provide focused investigative and policing capability on this front to secure our defense position.”

Speaking at a press conference last week, Premier Honorable Washington Misick said the Government is investing heavily in protecting both citizens and visitors.

Misick said to ensure the tourism sector is protected, the Government is looking to put in place a tourism police unit.

He said: “This is one of the things that I’ve spoken to our counterparts and colleagues, political colleagues up in the Bahamas about because they have recently also put that in place.

“A community tourism police unit so for us, given a dependency on tourism, which is probably the highest in the region, if not in the world is critical, everything depends on safety and security, everything.”

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police said it has launched investigations into several incidents on Providenciales.

BACK-TO-BACK ROBBERIES

Speaking to the recent robberies which have occurred backto-back, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force said: “Shortly after midnight today (March 15), a male victim reported he was robbed of his vehicle and personal belongings by two males in the area of Kew Town while in a separate incident after 1 am, reports state a couple had returned to their Blue Hills home and were robbed by four armed males.”

Superintendent in charge of Crime, Safeguarding and Public Protection Dean Holden said detectives have actively investigated reported firearmsrelated incidents within the past 48 hours.

“ We understand the seriousness of the situation and assure the community that we are working

diligently to ensure their safety and bring those responsible to justice.”

Another incident occurred in the Bight around 9:03 pm on (March 14).

The RTCIPF said a call was placed to the Police Control Room indicating two armed, masked men had robbed a couple of personal belongings and a white Daihatsu vehicle.

“At 9.21 pm yesterday (March 14), police officers were notified that three armed men robbed a

food establishment along Leeward Highway.

Another incident was carried out on March 13, which saw two armed men robbing a restaurant located along Airport Road around 9:38 pm.

Before these occurrences, a woman was also fleeced of her possessions by armed assailants on Tuesday, March 12 in the parking lot of Chances Gaming Parlour on Millennium Highway, Blue Hills.

Superintendent Holden added:

“Thankfully, no one was injured during these incidents, but the suspects managed to flee the scene before officers arrived.”

Measles alert: Residents urged ...

CONTINUED FROM  8

He urged anyone with information regarding these crimes to come forward and assist the Police in apprehending the suspects by notifying the closest police station, contacting 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, and anonymously give any information on illegal activity. and highly effective.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands has maintained high immunization coverage, over 90%, in the MMR vaccine.

“The last reported case of measles in the TCI was in 1991, although, we have good immunity

in the TCI, persons who are not protected are at an increased risk of contracting the virus.

“We encourage parents of children traveling during the Easter and summer holidays to ensure that their children’s vaccines are up to date.

“Being vaccinated is the best way to prevent getting sick with

measles or spreading it to other people. The vaccine is safe and helps your body fight off the virus”, the Health Ministry stressed.

Vaccines are offered free of cost to all children at government-operated primary care facilities across the TCI.

(By Olivia Rose)

Masked men leaving a business establishment following a robbery- CCTV imagery

Armed assailants attacked a woman in the parking lot of Chances Gaming Parlour

Flight cancellations leave over 500 passengers stranded in the TCI

BY OLIVIA ROSE

An unexpected travel disruption left over 500 passengers stranded in the Turks and Caicos Islands after five flights were cancelled on Saturday, March 16th, 2024.

The territory’s booming tourism is proving to be a double-edged sword as the main gateway, the Howard Hamilton International Airport on Providenciales, is undeniably strained during peak seasons, such as spring break when thousands of holidaymakers are pouring into the territory.

However, Saturday’s cancellations were mainly due to pilots reaching their maximum allowable flight hours, per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, according to the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA)

A combination of factors, including an increase in passenger traffic and limited availability of parking gates at the airport also contributed to the cancellations.

The unprecedented situation drew ire from hundreds of outbound holidaymakers hoping

Critical engine failure forces interCaribbean flight to emergency landing

An interCaribbean flight outbound from Antigua on March 13, suffered a critical engine failure just shortly after takeoff, forcing it to make an emergency landing.

Flight JY634 was on its way to Tortola, British Virgin Islands when the flight, carrying 36 passengers, safely returned to V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua shortly after takeoff due to an engine warning indication.

According to the airline, minutes after takeoff, the crew of Flight JY634 detected abnormal indications with the left side engine, prompting the captain to shut the engine down and return to Antigua

where the aircraft landed safely.

“As per standard protocols, the crew declared an emergency, ensuring the flight could get priority handling at the airport where emergency fire services were dispatched to the runway, though no fire incident occurred.

“All passengers and crew remained safe throughout the event,” interCaribbean stated.

The airline noted that the safety of their customers and crew is critical and of the highest priority.

“Our engineering team is working to identify the issue for rectification before the aircraft can be returned to service.”

to return home after vacationing in the islands, and inbound passengers.

A total of 528 passengers were affected by the cancellations, and the TCIAA quickly worked to provide accommodations for the stranded passengers.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA) has since issued an apology and explanation of the events that led to the frustrating inconvenience caused to passengers and said it worked assiduously to ensure that all affected individuals were

supported and accommodated.

Seventy-seven passengers chose to camp- out overnight at the Howard Hamilton International Airport, which remained open, while the remaining passengers were accommodated in various hotels and villas.

TCIAA’s Communications Manager Ms Nikeva Ariza in a statement said: “The cancellation of these flights was necessitated by the pilots reaching the maximum allowable flight hours regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), rendering

them unable to continue flying without mandated rest periods.

She said: “The TCIAA expresses gratitude to the numerous hoteliers and villa operators who swiftly accommodated these passengers on short notice.

“Saturdays typically witness heightened activity at the Howard Hamilton International Airport, with recent weeks marking recordhigh travel volumes in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

She further explained that last

All passengers on the flight were provided with accommodation in Antigua for the night, and alternative flight arrangements were made to transport them to their destination.

“interCaribbean Airways remains committed to providing the necessary assistance and

addressing their needs throughout this process,” a statement from the airline noted.

It added: “We understand the concerns such incidents may raise and assure the public that we are devoted to continually maintaining and enhancing our operational and safety standards.”

Several videos of the incident were taken by eyewitnesses and shared via several social media channels, all showing the propeller on the left side of the aircraft not moving, as it should have been.

Flight JY634 was on its way to Tortola, British Virgin Islands when it experienced an engine warning indication

Hundreds of passengers queued up at the Howard Hamilton International Airport

Some passengers chose to remain at the airport overnight following flight cancellations

Rising electricity costs prompt FortisTCI to seek 6% rate increase

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Rising demand for electricity, high inflation, and soaring interest costs are some of the reasons FortisTCI is seeking to increase electricity rates in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

FortisTCI, the electricity provider for the Turks and Caicos Islands, has submitted a proposal to the Governor to increase electricity rates by 6% on February 14, 2024.

The request is currently under review by the Energy and Utilities Department, and a decision is expected by March 31, 2024.

The proposed revised rates are 6% above current rates across service territories and if approved will directly impact the electric rate on customer bills.

In a statement on Thursday, March 14, 2024, Fortis TCI cited rising costs as the primary reason for the proposed increase.

The company said that it has only sought an increase in electricity rates on two occasions in the past 20 years and that it remains committed to providing its customers with the “least-cost, safe and reliable electricity service.”

“Over the past few years, the Turks and Caicos economy has experienced robust economic growth.

“This has led to increased demand for electricity. The rising demand requires expansion to the system to ensure continued reliable service to our customers.

“This, together with high inflation and rising interest costs, are the primary reasons for the electricity rates review.

“FortisTCI understands the difficulties that customers can face with electricity bills. Rate increases are a concern for everyone.

“For this reason, the Company works hard to ensure that electric rates remain as stable as possible, the company stated.

FortisTCI stressed that this recent proposal is the second time in over two decades that it has sought a general increase in electric rates.

Fortis TCI noted that it will continue to provide information to the Governor, the Ministry responsible for Public Utilities,

and the Energy and Utilities Commissioner’s Office on its submission.

“The Company remains open to working collaboratively with the Government to advance regulatory reform for the benefit of our customers.”

Last week, the Energy and Utilities Department said it is analysing the information submitted by FortisTCI and is seeking further details that may aid in the justification of the increase.

The government must complete its review and respond to the proposal by March 30, 2024.

Speaking to the proposal, the new Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, Hon Kyle Knowles, stressed that the Government would “continue to exercise due diligence in its examination of the case put forward by FortisTCI, but the timeframe is very tight”.

This is due to a 1987 agreement on rate-setting that does not give the government the authority to require studies, provide expert opinions, or test evidence.

“Within the confines of the present process, he explained, “the government will continue to press the utility for as much information

and justifications as it can before the deadline”.

Under the limited review process allowed by an agreement made in 1987, the government has only six weeks to complete its review before providing a full response.

If the application is denied, the same agreement allows FortisTCI to appeal the decision by referring it to a government-appointed independent enquirer.

In 2018, FortisTCI proposed an increase in electricity rates to the Turks and Caicos Islands government following the devastating hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 to recoup losses sustained and to cover the costs of rebuilding and recovery efforts.

However, this proposal was denied by the governor, who cited a lack of sufficient information and assessments regarding the efficiency of investments and the real costs of providing electricity services in the islands.

The utility company then requested a commission of inquiry to examine the reasonableness of their rate variation application, which was granted by the governor.

The commission ultimately found that the rate increase was justified and recommended that it be approved.

However, the increase did not take effect until 2020, when the courts rejected a government decision to deny the findings of the independent commission.

To increase regulatory oversight of utilities in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the government said it will begin consultations on a policy to review regulations soon.

Flight cancellations leave over 500 passengers ...

Saturday the airport experienced a surge in departing and arriving passengers, surpassing 5,000 guests in each category.

This resulted in terminal, ramp, and airspace capacities exceeding standard levels.

holding patterns, prompted airlines to redirect flights to the Dominican Republic and Miami

“It is important to clarify that, contrary to circulating social media reports, the airport did not cease operations.

importance, and adherence to flight hour regulations is crucial to maintaining a high standard of aviation safety.

added.

On March 17th, 2024 arriving and departing flights met their scheduled operating times.

“Moving forward, we are committed to enhancing our operational processes to minimise the likelihood of similar incidents occurring in the future.

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-ofthe-art passenger terminal to accommodate a projected growth of circa 2.5 million passengers among other upgrades and enhancements. CONTINUED

She said: “Despite the majority of flights adhering to their schedules until midafternoon, the limited availability of commercial aircraft parking gates—only nine in total, all occupied by recently arrived planes—coupled with additional aircraft in the vicinity and in

“We understand that unexpected cancellations and disruptions in travel plans can be frustrating for passengers. The TCIAA is working diligently to ensure that all affected individuals are supported and accommodated to the best of our abilities.”

She underscored that the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members are of paramount

“We appreciate the understanding and patience of those impacted by these unforeseen circumstances.

“The Airports Authority is grateful to staff in all areas of the entity who worked diligently to manage the difficulties of yesterday’s operations,” she

To address capacity woes facing the Airport, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government recently shortlisted five International construction companies that will vie for a Public Private Partnership agreement to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the Howard Hamilton International Airport.

The multimillion-dollar redevelopment project when completed is expected to give the

Fortis TCI’s headquarters on Leeward Highway, Providenciales

NJS Francis Building reopens its doors to Members of the House of Assembly

BY DELANA ISLES

After five and a half years, the hurricane-hit NJS Francis Building which houses members of the House of Assembly in the nation’s capital of Grand Turk has been fully renovated and reopened with lots of pomp and fanfare.

During a ceremonial event on Thursday, March 21, members of the Assembly, the acting Governor, the chief justice, and special invited guests, were welcomed to the newly renovated building by Speaker of the House, Honourable Gordon Burton.

The reopening of the building is a significant milestone symbolising the culmination of concerted governmental efforts aimed at reinstating the Honourable House to its esteemed place of operation.

Acting Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams delivered the proclamation officially reopening the Honourable House.

She recalled that due to Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017,

the building suffered extensive damages, and was subsequently vacated. This prompted a move to the Helena Jones Robinson High School’s auditorium in 2018, where the members held Assembly until this past Thursday.

“I believe, some five and a half years later, the House of Assembly has overstayed its welcome,” Williams said.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to the oldest government-owned high school in the country, to its staff, to its pupils, to the community, we say our profound thank you.

“Following significant investment, it is with great pride that the House of Assembly can now return to the Honourable NJS Francis Building in the nation’s capital and to once again proclaim it is the official House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” the acting Governor said.

Speaking to her personal feelings regarding the reopening of the Honourable House, Williams stated: “As we gather on this

auspicious occasion I am filled with a sense of pride, duty, hope and determination.

“Across our islands, we are proud of our resilience and our ability to navigate various challenges through our history, including natural disasters, economic shocks, and the recent global pandemic.”

Following her remarks, the acting Governor and members of the House gathered outside of the building to witness a march pass

by the armed and uniformed forces and corps of the TCI.

As the House resumed, Premier, the Honourable Charles Washington Misick presented a motion to the House thanking the Speaker, Governor and all others involved for the reopening of the People’s House.

Following his remarks, Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Edwin Astwood, along with other members of the House joined the chorus of gratitude.

The House of Assembly is named after Nathaniel Joseph Selver Francis, who served as the Fourth Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands from March 28, 1985, until July 25, 1986.

Prior to becoming Chief Minister, Francis was the Deputy Minister of Public Works.

In 2005, the new Parliament Buildings of the Turks and Caicos Islands was renamed NJS Francis Building following his death in 2004.

TCI takes transformative step toward utility regulatory reform

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a move that will revolutionise the utility sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Cabinet has approved a draft policy for the development of a Multisector Public Utility Regulatory framework.

This comes as residents in the territory lament the high cost of utilities and the poor and often unreliable service they are receiving from some utility providers in the islands.

The Government’s announcement also comes on the heels of a 6% electricity rate increase proposal recently submitted for review by Fortis TCI, the territory’s sole electricity provider.

The policy aims to establish a unified regulatory body to oversee telecommunications, electricity, water, sewerage, and related services, to promote innovation, environmental sustainability, and the delivery of high-quality utility services in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The approval of this policy

represents a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to reform and enhance the regulatory framework for essential services.

It is also a testament to the government’s commitment to “transparency, accountability, and the public interest”, a statement issued by the Government on

Thursday, March 14, said.

The policy will be guided by a set of principles that ensure that the regulatory framework is responsive to the needs of consumers and other stakeholders.

These principles include “transparency, independence, public interest, affordability, reliability, competitiveness,

innovation, and environmental sustainability.”

The next phase of policy development will involve targeted stakeholder engagement, led by the Energy and Utilities Department.

This initiative will provide an opportunity for key stakeholders, including service providers, consumer groups, and industry

experts, to provide feedback on the draft policy and help to shape its final form.

“Their feedback will be instrumental in ensuring the regulatory framework is both robust and reflective of the diverse interests within the utility sectors”, the Government stressed

The Turks and Caicos Islands government underscored that it recognizes the importance of inclusive policy development, and it encourages all stakeholders to participate in the stakeholder engagement process.

“This is a pivotal opportunity for the TCI community to contribute to the development of a utility regulatory framework that is aligned with the islands’ shared goals for sustainable development, technological innovation, and equitable service provision.”

The overall aim of utility regulation is to ensure that these services are provided in a safe, reliable, and affordable manner.

Utility regulators also set standards for environmental protection and consumer protection.

Senior leads of the Energy and Utilities Department and Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam (File photo)

The re-opening of the Honourable NJS Francis House of Assembly Building was well attended

UK team in TCI for reconnaissance mission

BY OLIVIA ROSE

A team of UK officials arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands last week to assess the territory’s needs in light of the ongoing migrant and security crisis in Haiti.

The reconnaissance team, comprised of officials from the UK Ministry of Defence, Border Force, and Home Office, met with local leaders and law enforcement upon their arrival on Thursday, March 14th.

Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam, Premier Charles Washington Misick, and the Minister of Immigration Hon Arlington Musgrove briefed the

team on the current situation and the challenges facing the islands.

The UK officials then visited Grand Turk, where they met with the Border Force and toured HMP Grand Turk. They discussed security measures and the detention of high-risk migrants, according to an update from the Governor’s Office.

Deputy Director of Overseas Territories from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Mr Adam Pile, also arrived in the territory to support the UK reconnaissance mission.

He attended a meeting with the Strategic Coordination Group (SCG) to discuss the UK’s response

to the crisis in Haiti.

“With the Acting Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams, Mr Pile had a bilateral meeting with the Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick, to discuss the ongoing crisis in Haiti and the UK’s plan to assist.

“Mr Pile also took the opportunity to visit the Police National Crime Intelligence Bureau and the TCI Regiment to understand the focus of required operational support,” the Governor’s Office said via its Official Facebook page.

Governor Selvaratnam has assured residents that the safety and security of the islands is the government’s top priority.

She said, “We have mounted a full force, air, sea and land enforcement effort to tackle the threats we face breaking the migration, an organized crime”.

The Governor has been actively working with the UK government to provide additional support to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“The UK Foreign Secretary has confirmed that the Turks and Caicos Islands is a priority for the UK Government.”

An additional marine patrol craft has been agreed upon, and a wider package of support is in the works, including upgrades to TCI’s marine domain awareness and border security.

Along with this support, TCI will benefit from security upgrades in drone surveillance capability and policing assets, including new capabilities on forensics, bodyworn cameras and CCTV.

The Governor added, “We remain focused and determined in our efforts to interdict, disrupt, and dismantle the threats we face”.

She underscored that such assistance will not only strengthen TCI’s ongoing efforts to counter illegal migration but also provide a critical change to TCI’s response measures to ensure the safety and security of the islands.

‘Exquisite Turks and Caicos’ launched to enhance local businesses

‘Exquisite Turks and Caicos’ is an immersive tourism program formed by the Strategic Development Unit of Experience Turks and Caicos, to assist Islanders in creating and expanding niche product offerings and services to enhance their businesses and add value to the overall visitor experience.

South Caicos Community Centre.

The programme was launched last February 27 at the Invest Turks and Caicos MSME Roadshow held at the

A statement on the program explained that immersive businesses are land-based heritage and waterbased tours, attraction sites, culinary experiences, local art and craft. The

program supports the three pillars that Experience TCI was established on, namely ‘inclusive growth, sustainability and competitiveness’.

Courtney Robinson, Strategic Development Manager and the

face of the ‘Exquisite Turks and Caicos’ programme, said immersive tourism is about creating compelling and interactive visitor

(L-R) UK Officials from the Ministry of Defence, Border Force and Home Office were briefed by Governor HE Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam, Premier Charles Washington Misick, and the Minister of Immigration Hon Arlington Musgrove and law enforcement. (Office of the Governor photos)

Officials from the UK Reconnaissance, TCI Border Force, HE Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam and HE Deputy Governor Anya Williams visited His Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk

Conch Bar, Middle Caicos launch of the new programme by the DMO

In Providenciales, Robinson met with scores of business owners and other interested persons

‘Exquisite Turks and Caicos’ launched to enhance ...

CONTINUED FROM  14

experiences through strategic partnerships with local vendors.

He said it goes beyond traditional sightseeing and offers travellers a deeper connection to the destination’s culture, history, and environment.

“Exquisite Turks and Caicos is our commitment that extends

beyond the sunshine smiles, picturesque landscapes and pristine sandy beaches; it is a promise to curate experiences that create memories that resonate with the soul of every traveller,” Robinson explained.

Commenting on the new program was Minister of Tourism, Honourable Josephine Connolly. She urged local entrepreneurs and

business owners to get involved in the programme.

“Immersive tourism is becoming very popular as travellers look for a more enriched and memorable travel experience, and by enhancing our products to create such experiences, we are creating avenues for increased spend and visitation, which ultimately works to the benefit of all in the tourism

sector.

“I applaud Experience Turks and Caicos for this initiative, and I look forward to seeing the creative and innovative initiatives that will come out of this,” the minister said.

Persons interested in being a part of the program can contact Courtney Robinson via email at crobinson@myexperiencetci.com or call (649) 946-4970.

They will be required to complete and submit a Tourism Vendor Service Provider Registration Form.

Qualified vendors for the ‘Exquisite Turks and Caicos’ programme will be awarded up to $5,000 in technical support, business support services, marketing including brand creation, education and training.

Sickening neglect of Turks & Caicos borders as Britain vigilantly defend theirs

Do not let your eyes fool you. This photo and its article are not what you think. It is not Turks and Caicos Border Patrol and our UK Overseers successfully apprehending the never-ending wave of illegal mass migration from next door in Haiti, and vigilantly securing our borders.

Not a chance. This is a BBC photo with the article ‘UK signs new deal with EU to tackle small boat crossings’ about the British proactively and diligently working out a deal with the EU to aid in the protection of their British borders from the influx of migrants from member countries. This deal being worked out includes a ‘returns’ agreement for illegal entrants, and UK’s access to an EU fingerprints database to help those apprehensions and returns. So their concern, and a legitimate one at that, is migrants coming to the UK from the less well-off EU member countries.

Now compare that with Turks and Caicos, a miniscule country in size with a population of roughly 50, 000 people, adjacent to its neighbour Haiti with a population of 12 million souls facing crushing poverty, a breakdown in social order, and prison breaks, both natural and manmade, that have put many of those incarcerated for violent crimes back on the street.

With TCI only 90 miles away, with ‘naked’ borders, guess where many of them show up? No, you do not have to guess. Just access the Governor and Acting Commissioner of Police address to the public on this serious matter. The speeches are essentially the same, so either would be fine. What becomes clear is confirmation of the British outstanding ability to package and sell drivel. A hallmark of their ‘swarm’ of colonial Empire as they dispossessed victims the world over. This is hilariously depicted in a skit from the late

BY BEN ROBERTS

Ben is a writer and published author of the novel ‘Jackals of Samarra,’ at Amazon.com. He is a Turks & Caicos Islander who often contributes articles to T&C local newspapers. He is a founding member of the NGO Turks & Caicos Forum (TC Forum) that gives voice to matters Turks & Caicos Islands. Contact him at: grandt730@aol.com

Benny Hill as he, playing an FCO official, attempts to deceive and sell nonsense to the African chief. In this ‘fireside chat’ speech our TCI and its citizens are being lulled into a sense of security even as potential disaster reigns, thanks to their longstanding utter negligence in securing our borders even as they do everything humanly possible to secure theirs. And not only theirs but that of White Falklands as well. Atrocious.

We should not be listening to a single word from this Governor and her Acting Police Commissioner, and especially the latter. This man, Christopher Eyre, is ‘acting.’ That means he does not fully have a handle on matters related to TCI policing and the serious circumstances, at this point in time regarding the mass migration from next door. This breakdown of law and order in civil society there, and our danger to it in TCI has been an ongoing point of concern that the UK, and its Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Parliament, have neglected consistently, or provided hodge-podge solutions to. Now that this ‘mass migration’ has reached a flashpoint and is boiling over due to a near-total collapse of civil society next door we see these ‘subjects of the Crown’ coming out talking nonsense about the UK allotting ‘resources and manpower’ and ‘TCI law enforcement

working with partners in Haiti.’ What partners? That country is practically ungovernable when its leader went on a trip abroad but had to cool his heels because there was no government to go back to, and faced risks to life and limb if he did. Yet we, in TCI, are dialoguing with ‘partners’ there? Typical British ‘equine manure’.

Turks and Caicos, in its appearance before the United Nations by the TC Forum NGO, has warned both that body and the FCO non-stop, and with alarm, about the gravity of this situation. Yes, that would be founding members Alpha Gibbs and myself [get your hands on one of those UN TV Network video presentations available on social media].

All one has to do [Gibbs and I have] is review the Working Papers for the last decade that the UK has submitted to the UN on the situation in our home of Turks and Caicos. The ‘ho hum’ nature of these papers and the misinformation, especially regarding this non-stop ‘mass migration, is staggering. So, we should not be listening to any ‘foolishness disguised as oversight policy’ coming from the Crown and its ‘boosters’, working valiantly in advancing the interests of that entity. What we should be doing, if our elected representatives were worth what we pay them in salary, is have a case against the UK before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on this matter, based on three

claims: That their abject neglect of our borders is prosecutable because our Constitution requires that they prioritise protection of our borders; that such conduct is grossly racist and discriminatory as they diligently protect the borders of White British-populated Falklands sister territory; and that their odious conduct is prosecutable in that they diligently see to protect their own borders in the best way possible, but totally neglect ours. This ‘horse already out of the barn’ nonsense by the UK that endangers our national well-being should not be tolerated by any well-thinking T and Caicos Islander, elected or otherwise.

Here is a suggestion: I am in contact with someone who is a TCIslander by family heritage. Yes, his father played barefoot in the streets of Grand Turk and South Caicos growing up. This man has gone through the upper echelons of the US military and is their ‘go-to’ person for anything related to military intelligence, and especially drone surveillance. He is retired but the branch of his service has retained him due to his skills, and he travels the country providing top training to prospective military personnel in this arena. I have proposed drone surveillance for our Turks and Caicos for many years, including

before the UN around a time when Lord Ahmad was running around our region talking nonsense about a hodge podge solution of a helicopter from Cayman and Bahamas forces rushing in to intercept illegal migration flow. Not a practical or very effective solution. It has to be really bad when a boatload of illegal migrants land on Salt Cay after being ‘stiffed’ by their traffickers into thinking they were in Provo and went around that island knocking on doors inquiring as to whether or not they were in Provo. How shameful for our illegal migration situation to deteriorate to this. All because of wilful negligence by the British, as they pursue their agenda for TCI. At this ‘horse has left the barn’ moment our TCI can do without this UK ‘hyped’ forthcoming assistance and manpower boost to deal with this crisis. They would be better off remaining at home, and not within our borders. Our government would be better off engaging the above-mentioned specialist of TCI origin. Because after all, would it not be better to have someone who is ’us’ looking after our house than a stranger who has no connection to us and, based on his past conduct over close to four centuries, has clearly demonstrated that our concerns matter little to him?

Confronting the surge of crime in the TCI: A call for progressive action

The Turks and Caicos Islands, once heralded as a beacon of tranquillity within the Caribbean, now find itself at a pivotal juncture, grappling with a surge in violent crime, primarily fuelled by the infiltration of illegal firearms.

BY ED FORBES

A concerned citizen of Grand Turk

The idyllic narrative of safety and peace is increasingly marred by the echoes of gun violence. This challenges the fabric of our community and demands an urgent and sophisticated response.

The gun amnesty programme rolled out by local law enforcement

departments, the shakedowns during traffic stops, while commendable, scratches merely the surface of a more profound dilemma. The crux of the issue lies in staunchly fortifying our borders against the clandestine influx of weaponry.

Supposedly, help is on the way! We hail the new approach

by Governor Dileeni-Daniel Selvaratnam, in her efforts to engage the UK with putting together a more robust security package to include providing a warship in our waters. This is a response citizens were expecting

Photo used with BBC article, ‘UK signs new deal with EU to tackle small boat crossings’

The invisible politicians are now becoming visible

You have the power to make them invisible again

It is this time of the season when people whom you have not seen or heard from for years suddenly become visible. Individuals are now in your face making noise and writing articles because they are looking for your vote. Mind you, there are some individuals who remain invisible because they know if they run in a particular area or with a particular party, they will win anyway.

However, they can only win through you. You have more power than you realise. In the same way, they were invisible to you, you can become invisible to them, or you can make them invisible again by not voting for them.

I know there are some individuals who may have just decided to run but I believe these

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.

individuals are few. I think most people had intentions of running a long time and if that is the case, they should have been more visible. Do not wait until the election year to become visible. Get involved in community events.

Host community events. Speak out publicly on issues. Educate the public about what is going

on. Check regularly on the people in the community. Listen to their concerns and try to address them. There are some things that can be done without being a Member of Parliament. Guide and train people on how they can become better in what they do. If you do not know what to do, then find people who can help them. While I encourage

you to be visible, it does not mean you should be taking and posting pictures of everything you do. Be sincere in whatever you do. Also don’t be visible just to say you are visible, address the pertinent and pressing issues affecting individuals.

It is becoming a trend now when some politicians (whether they win or not) become invisible after an election. Isn’t it amazing how some of these individuals appear to forget you? Maybe they haven’t forgotten you, maybe they are reaching out to you privately but one thing I know is that they are very visible during this time of the year. You as the electorate have a lot of power. One vote makes a difference. Likewise, when you don’t vote, it also makes a

difference. Voting for people who you know will make a significant impact. Vote for individuals who you know will be there for you and the community whether they win or not.

Too many politicians want to use you. They know they can only get in power because of you. Do not let any politician or political party use you. Remember you have the power.

It is time we teach some of these politicians a lesson or two. Aren’t you tired of falling for the same political tactics every four years?

There are some people though that have remained visible. Of course, not because someone is visible means that you should also vote for them. Be wise. Be smart. Do not be gullible.

Living in confidence in a chaotic world

The world as we know it is spiralling into chaos. Nations are warring against each other, and all-over geopolitical conflicts are brewing. Interminably, natural disasters are taking a toll on the world’s ecosystems and these phenomena are not only devastating human lives, but they bear hefty economic costs.

Look at what’s happening in the US political arena. Partisanship inside Congress is wreaking unending gridlock between the Democrats and Republicans and; consequently, these impasses are disrupting normalcy across the US, and by extension the world.

To bolster this argument, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has sparked worldwide disruptions in food and energy production and has hiked prices. Meanwhile, extreme global temperatures have had similar impacts on global yields and costs.

A similar economic outcome is echoing from the Israeli-Hamas war and the Red Sea “shoot-out”

BY D MARKIE SPRING

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

between the US’s and Britain’s navies and Yemen’s Houthis promises to undermine the global supply chain and exacerbate product delays and inflation.

Moreover, political instability across Africa’s nations is impacting the world, considering that the continent is home to 30 per cent of the world’s mineral accumulation and accounts for 12 per cent of global oil reserves and 8 per cent of natural gases.

The continent also holds 40 per cent of the world’s gold cache and boasts the largest stockpile of platinum and uranium, which the

world craves.

Not withholding, the infusing territorial disputes in the South China Sea could severely cripple the global economy, energy, and food supplies.

At this juncture, the biggest concern is, how can the TCI overcome these inevitable effects from the constant unnecessary strife around us?

Indeed, there are policy frameworks that lawmakers can adopt to help placate the global shortages of energy, water and food and to add to it, inflation – emanating from geopolitical tensions.

On a broader scale, governments and international organizations are cooperating to mitigate the effects of these man-made events on the world’s economy and its citizenry with the hope of normalising the status quo.

However, there are uncontrollable phenomena, which are constantly disrupting the world and the economic well-being of its citizens.

Concerning this, the Holy Scriptures – and trends – warned about turbulent times in the latter days: widespread diseases, earthquakes, famines, heightened violence and volcanic eruptions and these events are already happening!

In addition to these incorrigible eventualities, the TCI has an acute problem that must be dealt with domestically. It has been marred by a spate of sporadic criminal activities, which has left an indelible impression in communities.

And now, the land is plagued with mass human migration, which is ramping up a myriad of costs and, while this is not new to the TCI – considering that 1000 gang members are on the loose in neighboring Haiti, the TCI faces an even tougher challenge.

This transnational activity poses grave threats to national security and promises dire implications for public safety, public health, and eco-political stability in the TCI.

Especially the latter, if policymakers are not able to determine a resolution, it can pose a dent in the health of the tourism sector; hence, political instability, social inequality, and economic degradation.

While we may not be able to control the endless cross-border quandary, timely and effective planning at home could alleviate the impacts.

And considering policymakers’ customary bureaucratic inertia, I’d rather pray!

Prayer: a conversation with God

Prayer has been described as many things. In its simplest form, it is a conversation with God. One in which he speaks first, and we respond. When we pray, we respond to what we hear from God. The Bible is God’s word to us; it is not the only way he speaks to us; his creation, circumstances, and even dreams are also ways God talks to us. But his definitive voice is heard most in the Bible. The challenges we face are not beyond the power of God. His wisdom and power can lead us. Below are prayers that are fed from the Word of God. Though I have written prompts, you can use your own words.

John 10:10 – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Prayer of Repentance for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Almighty God, we humbly come before You, recognizing how our nation has been vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes. We repent for the times when we have allowed theft, destruction, and darkness to infiltrate our land. Forgive us for straying from Your abundant life and not fully embracing the blessings You offer. Grant us the courage to turn away from sin and to walk in Your light. Strengthen our resolve to resist evil and to

OCTOPEN

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

pursue Your abundant life for our nation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Prayer of Praise for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Heavenly Father, we lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving for the abundant life You have graciously bestowed upon the Turks and Caicos Islands. Thank You for Your provision, protection, and guidance throughout our history. We celebrate Your faithfulness in leading us into a future filled with hope and promise. May Your abundant blessings flow over our nation, shaping us into a beacon of Your light and love in the Caribbean. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Prayer of Supplication for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Dear Lord, we come before You with hearts filled with needs and desires for our nation. We ask for Your wisdom and discernment to navigate the challenges and opportunities before us. Help us to ask in faith, without doubting,

trusting in Your generous provision for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Guide our leaders and citizens to make decisions that align with Your will and promote the flourishing of our society. May Your abundant life manifest in every aspect of our nation, bringing prosperity, unity, and peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Psalm 119:10-11 – With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! 11 I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

Prayer of Repentance for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Merciful God, we confess that there have been times when we have strayed from Your commandments as a nation. Forgive us for letting our hearts wander from Your truth and not seeking You with our whole being. We repent for any actions or decisions that have led us away from Your path of righteousness. Help us store Your word in our

collective heart so we may not sin against You. Guide us back to obedience and faithfulness to Your commands. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Prayer of Praise for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Lord, we praise You for Your word and commandments, which serve as a guiding light for our nation.

Thank You for the privilege of seeking You with our whole hearts and for the protection Your word provides against sin. We rejoice in the opportunity to store Your word deep within our national consciousness, shaping our identity and guiding our actions.

May Your word continue to be our foundation and source of strength as we journey together. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Prayer of Supplication for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Heavenly Father, we ask for Your guidance and protection as a nation so that we may not wander from Your commandments. Help

us to remain steadfast in our commitment to You and Your word. Grant us the wisdom and discernment to make decisions that honor You and benefit our people. Empower us to store Your word in our hearts collectively, guarding us against our temptations and trials. May Your truth reign supreme in our land, bringing transformation and blessing. In Jesus’ name, amen.

James 1:5-6 – If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.

Prayer of Repentance for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Gracious God, we confess that as a nation, we have lacked wisdom and understanding in various matters. Forgive us for relying on our knowledge instead of seeking Your guidance. We repent for doubting Your wisdom and for being driven and tossed by the winds of uncertainty. Help us to turn to You with faith, knowing that You give generously to all who ask. Lead us out of doubt and into confidence in Your provision for the Turks and Caicos Islands. In Jesus’ name,

The depths of hypocrisy

Iscariot’s betrayal, exchanging a heavenly friendship for mere coins, remains etched in history as a profound example of biblical hypocrisy. One moment, he is sharing bread with the Son of Man; the next, he betrays Him with a kiss for some 30 pieces of silver. But before we condemn Judas outright, let’s reflect.

ARE WE IMMUNE TO HYPOCRISY?

Before casting the first stone, consider that hypocrisy is a flaw we all share. No one is untouched by its allure; we are all susceptible, being fallible humans. Despite our professed moral standards, we often falter. We decry reckless drivers, then fail to signal at intersections; we champion environmentalism while driving gas-guzzling SUVs; we claim affection for animals, yet indulge in a steak dinner. In each instance, hypocrisy lurks.

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

Here are some common manifestations, and hopefully, you can alter some of your behaviours.

THE GOSSIPING QUEEN:

Criticising others behind their backs while craving immunity from such gossip. Beware of such a double standard. And avoid being that “gurl”.

THE BUSINESSMAN CRIES

POOR:

Opposing wage increases while

amassing wealth. Hypocrisy at its most egregious.

THE TRUST FUND BABY: Dismissing the poor as lazy while oblivious to their paved driveways, a second home in the south of France, and two salon cars.

Born privileged.

THE DISHWASHER: Berating housemates for unwashed dishes, then neglecting their own.

Guilty. Sorry. Not sorry.

THE SELFISH SANDRA: Accusing others of selfishness while prioritising personal gain.

THE RELIGIOUS HYPOCRITE: The pastor who advocates for religious freedom while excluding others’ beliefs.

THE NEPOTIST:

Preaching equality whilst being the COO of a family business. Sure, it’s a family legacy!

THE CRITIC: Urging authenticity while deriding those who deviate from societal norms. A bit like my folks.

OPPORTUNISTIC GENDER

ROLES:

Espousing gender equality while expecting traditional gender roles in personal interactions,

expecting men to pay for the meals on dates, and changing your tires. Why don’t you go to Debra instead?

THE STEAK-EATING ANIMAL LOVER:

Professing love for animals while consuming steak with peppercorn sauce.

Indeed, hypocrisy is pervasive. We denounce actions in others that we excuse in ourselves. Let’s not exempt ourselves from this introspection. The shift starts here.

Share if you care.

Your insights are welcome. @daviid.l2 louisedens@gmail.com

PS.

Judas eventually came to his senses, returned the money, and then hung himself.

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.

Response to former minister for border security

Border control is a serious issue, and focusing on finding solutions is essential rather than creating sensationalism for self-gain. The timing of Astwood’s return and critique raises questions about political opportunism.

It’s a common strategy to re-enter the political arena by capitalising on people’s anxieties and fears. However, leadership is more than identifying problems; it offers viable solutions and unites people toward common goals. It’s worth questioning what concrete plans Astwood proposes beyond the critique to address the security of our borders.

BY AUDLEY ASTWOOD

The portrayal of our border issues as solely the current government’s failure ignores the multifaceted nature of border security and the collaborative efforts needed to address such

challenges. The problems at our borders are not new and require more than national efforts; they demand regional cooperation and strategic partnerships. It is misleading to attribute the initiation of such partnerships solely to one administration or leader, especially when the OPBAT (Operation Bahamas, America and Turks & Caicos) agreement, a cornerstone of our regional defence against narco-trafficking, was established decades ago in 1982, while Sean Astwood was in high school.

Astwood and the PDM have a culture of taking undeserved credit for results they never worked for. This operation was not the brainchild of any single

Confronting the surge of crime ...

CONTINUED FROM  17

since the onset of lawlessness and civil unrest that broke out in neighbouring Haiti.

Albeit, the porous nature of our maritime boundaries presents a formidable obstacle. This necessitates a multi-faceted strategy far beyond conventional law enforcement tactics.

The myriad of concerns that haunt our citizens — from inadequacy of maritime vessels and patrols to the need for more robustness of port security measures. These issues underscore a collective yearning for transparency and decisive action.

The effectiveness of our current assets, including the utilisation of aerial surveillance, begs for reevaluation in light of the evolving criminal modus operandi.

What exactly is in the proposed UK security package is yet to be seen, but we remain hopeful the plan is sustainable. Here are a few questions inquiring minds should ponder.

Is it high time for TCI to invest in the strategic deployment of a locally stationed helicopter, as opposed to leasing arrangements with neighbouring countries?

Do we have an adequate budget for ports, airport security and drone technology to enhance our rapid response capabilities and provide a deterrent to illicit activities?

Do we have police stations in high-crime areas, particularly in Five Cays?

Moreover, the adaptation of our law enforcement to the rapid pace of technological and societal

changes remains questionable. The skill enhancement of our frontline officers is imperative to bridge the gap between traditional policing methods and the exigencies of modern-day crime fighting.

The palpable frustration among our citizenry, stemming from perceived inaction and the stifling of community voices, signals a critical need for a more inclusive approach to crime prevention.

The path forward demands a departure from passive discourse on social platforms to active civic engagement, advocating for substantive policy reforms and the empowerment of law-abiding citizens.

The recent spate of armed robberies, particularly targeting cash-reliant businesses and persons, highlights a vulnerability intrinsic to our economy’s structure.

This situation necessitates a reevaluation of self-defence measures for business owners and security personnel, potentially including the need to revisit the regulations and provision of firearms for law-abiding citizens, could be a deterrent.

The discourse on crime and public safety inevitably evokes divergent viewpoints across the political spectrum. Yet, the gravity of our current predicament warrants a collaborative effort transcending partisan lines, aiming for a comprehensive and actionable crime prevention agenda.

The underutilisation of community-based programmes like Crime Stoppers points to a broader issue of trust and engagement between law enforcement and the

local politician but the result of international cooperation to combat a common threat.

Politicising border security serves no one, especially not the citizens of Turks and Caicos. Let’s focus on strengthening existing collaborations and seeking new avenues for partnership. We must accept that illegal migration is a transnational issue, and a unified response is required. The success of operations like OPBAT demonstrates the power of cooperation over isolation. We need a better approach that addresses the socio-economic disparities that drive people to undertake dangerous journeys. We must also address the demand for illegal drugs in our communities. The current administration is working on such a comprehensive approach. It goes beyond increasing patrols and enhancing surveillance.

communities they serve.

Innovative approaches to community outreach, such as town hall meetings led by high-level Crime Stoppers leadership, could help debunk the notion that law enforcement are connected to them in some way. This will promote reassurance of anonymity and foster a more cooperative stance against crime.

Perhaps, local banks can also step up their game and make access to credit card machines more convenient and feasible for small businesses, thereby reducing the risk for only cash driven transactions at bars and restaurants.

In acknowledging the dedicated efforts of our law enforcement agencies, we must also recognise the imperativeness of constructive criticism and advocacy for systemic improvements.

The stakes are high, and the ramifications of inaction or inadequate responses could have far-reaching consequences for our nation’s social and economic fabric.

In conclusion, the battle against crime in the Turks and Caicos Islands is not solely the purview of law enforcement; it is a collective endeavour that requires the active participation of every sector of society.

Through vigilant community engagement, strategic policy reforms, and enhanced law enforcement capabilities and the much-needed assistance from our UK partner, we can aspire to reclaim the tranquillity that once defined our islands, ensuring a safer future for all residents.

former minister to say for himself.

Sean Astwood’s return to the political arena, especially during an election year, raises questions about the timing and motivations behind his critique. However, the electorate needs to evaluate the substance of these discussions critically. Is he offering solutions? Is he fostering understanding? Don’t let a former politician trying to return to power trick you with their divisive political tactics. We, as voters, should look past their fancy talk. We must check their past actions and recognise a drowning man clutching for straws.

The narrative that paints the government’s efforts as wholly insufficient overlooks the complexity of border security and the strides made in cooperation with our neighbours and international partners. While there is always room for improvement, acknowledging the ongoing efforts and challenges is essential for constructive debate.

What is it about border control that the former minister expected the current minister to fix in three years; that he could not fix in four years? I will leave that for the

While a few of Astwood’s concerns are not without merit, the narrative requires balance and perspective. Let’s aim for plans that solve problems in a helpful way, where we all work together and understand what our community needs. As we look ahead, we want leaders who can motivate us, bring us together, and make fundamental changes for the better for everyone in Turks and Caicos.

Our focus should be on crafting policies that not only secure our borders but also honour our commitments to human rights, economic stability, and regional solidarity. This is the path to a secure, prosperous future for Turks and Caicos, not through divisive rhetoric or politicised narratives that serve individual ambitions over the collective good.

Prayer: a conversation with ...

CONTINUED FROM  19

amen.

Prayer of Praise for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Lord, we praise You for Your abundant wisdom, which You generously give to those who ask in faith. Thank You for Your faithfulness in guiding and directing our nation, even in times of uncertainty. We rejoice in the assurance that as we trust in You wholeheartedly, You will make our paths straight and lead us into prosperity. May Your wisdom shine brightly in our national decisions, bringing honor and glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Prayer of Supplication for the Turks and Caicos Islands: Dear Lord, we come before You seeking wisdom and discernment for our nation, the Turks and Caicos Islands. Grant us the wisdom to address our challenges and seize the opportunities before us. Help us to ask in faith without doubting Your provision and guidance. Strengthen our leaders and citizens to make decisions rooted in Your wisdom so our nation may thrive and prosper under Your care. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Regional News

PM ‘explores’ GB diamond repository with Botswana

Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president on Tuesday said he was unsure what economic benefits will flow from the diamond repository proposal that the Prime Minister discussed with Botswana.

James Carey told Tribune Business he had been unable to discover any details on a facility which the Prime Minister’s Office said was “explored” by Philip Davis KC and his ministerial delegation during their five-day state visit to the African nation his week.

“Moreover, the establishment of a diamond depository in Grand Bahama was explored as a strategic initiative to facilitate Botswana’s diamond exports to the US. This collaboration involves the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Freeport Container Port, aiming to enhance trade links and foster economic co-operation,” the Prime Minister’s Office said.

Several sources suggested such a facility should be described as a repository, not a depository. It would seemingly act as a secure storage facility for diamonds in transit from Botswana to the US, with the gems held in it until they were required for onward transportation. Botswana is one of the world’s largest sustainable diamond sources, and the country

is the world’s leading producer by value.

“I saw that and I’ve been trying to find out a bit of information on what they may be talking about,” Mr Carey told this newspaper of the statement by the Prime Minister’s Office. “Diamonds are not bulky items, so they won’t be shipping container loads of the stuff. I don’t know what it brings to Freeport but there will be some payroll on the ground.

“I’ve not been able to find out anything. The positive thing is if it brings jobs they will be highend jobs and some security staff. Any type of that thing bodes well

for Freeport. From a business standpoint I can’t see any impact apart from payroll, utilisation of space and security. If it does come through there will obviously be some high-end employees involved. How many, I can’t begin to guess.”

Freeport’s bonded status as a free-trade zone, under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, makes it the best location in The Bahamas to store highvalue objects such as diamonds in a secure facility because they can be held tax-free. The city’s transhipment, logistics and distribution infrastructure can then

be used to facilitate their onward dispatch to the US.

Tribune Business sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, yesterday said they recalled previous discussions about establishing a repository for precious valuables, such as gold and silver, in Freeport several years ago. One said he remembered the former Associated Grocers warehouse, located at the Sea/Air Business Centre, being talked of as a possible location.

“There was some talk a while back about their being a repository in place to store valuables,” the source said. “The way the law is set up you can ship pallets of gold anywhere. If there was a repository in The Bahamas, it would not fall under the banking laws.

“There was some talk about that a couple of years ago; two years ago. I know they were kicking around for a building to use, and the Associated Grocers building came up at one point. That’s an interesting concept. They’d have to licence it here. What they were looking at back then I think was gold, silver, precious artworks, antique vehicles and high-value consumer electronics.”

The Prime Minister’s Office, in its statement on Mr Davis’ meeting with Botswana’s president Masisi,

said: “On the table for both countries is an economic co-operation of a proposed MOU (memorandum of understanding) between the Central Bank of the Bahamas and the Bank of Botswana.

“This partnership will facilitate the exchange of expertise and technology in the area of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), leveraging The Bahamas’ Sand Dollar and Botswana’s SmartBots initiatives to spur advancements in the digital economy.

“The meeting also set the stage for partnerships between financial institutions of both nations, aimed at unlocking investment opportunities and diversifying financial services. Plans for joint conferences to explore collaborative financial solutions were discussed, promising to strengthen economic ties further.

“In a move towards enhancing digital economy co-operation, the two countries agreed to collaborate on developing a regulatory framework for digital assets. Drawing from The Bahamas’ experience with the DARE (Digital Assets and Registered Exchanges) Act 2023, this initiative aims to bolster Botswana’s digital economy strategies and secure robust investment avenues.” (Tribune242)

Bahamas wants 2,000 more hotel rooms for ‘good footing’

The Bahamas’ prospects for continued tourism growth depend on bringing 2,000 hotel rooms, or 15 percent of its total pre-COVID inventory, back on line swiftly with the industry at “maximum capacity”.

Robert Sands, the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) president said told the Tribune Business that the country must “address capacity” if its largest industry is to maintain the post-pandemic growth momentum, adding: “We have to get those rooms out of order back in order.”

Apart from the loss of the nowdemolished Melia Nassau Beach Resort’s 694 rooms, and the closure of Atlantis’ Beach Towers property for redevelopment into the Somewhere Else concept the BHTA president said a “significant” amount of inventory has also been lost in Grand Bahama. That largely stems from the closure of two of the three properties that form the Grand Lucayan complex.

Voicing optimism that hotel developers and operators are working to “reverse” these trends, Mr Sands told this newspaper that The Bahamas has withstood

earlier negative international media coverage of its crime woes and US/Canadian travel warnings with bookings for the upcoming Easter period and winter tourism peak “meeting or exceeding the expectations” of many resorts.

While acknowledging that the negative perceptions created by such coverage never completely dissipate, he added that he is confident The Bahamas “can trump” any fall-out by providing visitors with such high-quality experiences that they will continue to recommend the destination to family and friends.

And, asserting that tourism’s benefits are “not Nassau-centric”, Mr Sands said the two days he and other BHTA executives spent in the company of Eleuthera resort executives showed that “they are very bullish” on current and nearterm business prospects for the sector.

Kerry Fountain, the Bahamas Out Island Promotion Board’s (BOIPB) executive director, this week told Tribune Business that room nights sold by member properties during the early part of 2024 were 7 percent up on the same period

last year although they have yet to match pre-COVID performance.

Ben Simmons, proprietor of the Ocean View and The Other Side proper- ties on Harbour Island and mainland Eleuthera, said his occupancy numbers for March and April 2024 are “running neck and neck” with the same months for 2023. “It means the post- COVID boom is not a bubble,” he told this news- paper, as occupancies for March stand at 95.5 per- cent compared to the prior year’s 95.8 percent.

However, Mr Sands said increased room inventory - both

among hotels and vacation rentals - remains critical to maintaining tourism and the wider economy’s momentum by providing sufficient accommodation to meet the stillsurging demand for a Bahamas vacation.

While New Providence “will be seeing in earnest this year” the impact from the British Colonial’s re-opening, and “can look forward to an entire year of that additional capacity” with some 290 rooms returned to operation, he added that more was required to further cement the country’s growth prospects.

“I would say that we will be at maximum capacity,” Mr Sands told Tribune Business of the hotel industry’s anticipated Easter weekend. “We have to put this in the context of the amount of rooms we have available. The only way we’re going to grow our tourism industry for the future is we need increased capacity. I believe everybody knows that.”

Explaining that the solution is not simply just building more hotels, the BHTA president called for an “holistic” solution “because a lot of infrastructure has to go into place” - especially increased airlift and upgraded Family Island airports - to support greater room inventory and visitor demand.

Acknowledging that this was occurring, although “possibly slower” than desired when it came to Family Island airport transformation, Mr Sands said: “The holistic development of the industry is beginning to take shape. But we have to address capacity. We have to get those rooms out of order back in order, and a significant number of them are in the Family Islands, especially Grand Bahama.

Prime Minister Philip Davis speaks with members of the Bahamian delegation during the state visit to Botswana

Regional News

Gangs target peaceful communities in new round of attacks on Haiti’s capital

Armed gangs launched new attacks in the suburbs of Portau-Prince early Wednesday, with heavy gunfire echoing across oncepeaceful communities near the Haitian capital.

Associated Press journalists reported seeing at least five bodies in and around the suburbs, and gangs blocked the entrances to some areas.

People in the communities under fire called radio stations pleading for help from Haiti’s national police force, which remains understaffed and outmatched by the gangs. Among the communities targeted in the pre-dawn hours were Pétion-Ville, Meyotte, Diègue and Métivier.

As the attacks continued, the U.S. State Department announced Wednesday that it had completed its first evacuation of American citizens from Port-au-Prince. More

than 15 Americans were airlifted to neighbouring Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic.

More than 30 US citizens will be able to leave Port-au-Prince daily aboard the US governmentorganized helicopter flights, the agency said.

“We will continue to monitor demand from U.S. citizens for assistance in departing Haiti on a real-time basis,” the department said.

On Sunday, the agency evacuated more than 30 U.S. citizens from the coastal city of Cap-Haitien in northern Haiti to Miami International Airport.

“We hope that conditions will allow a return of commercial means for people to travel from Haiti soon. We and the international community and the Haitian authorities are working for that to become a reality,” the State

The violence continues to create gang deaths

Department said. Wednesday’s attacks in parts of Port-au-Prince came two days after gangs went on a rampage through the upscale neighbourhoods of Laboule and Thomassin in PétionVille, with at least a dozen people killed.

The violence forced the closure of banks, schools and businesses across Pétion-Ville, which until now had been largely spared from

the attacks that gangs launched on Feb. 29.

Gunmen have set fire to police stations, forced the closure of Haiti’s main international airport and stormed the country’s two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

Scores of people have been killed and some 17,000 others have been left homeless amid the violence.

Meanwhile, Haitians await the possibility of new leadership as Caribbean officials rush to help form a transitional presidential council that will be responsible for appointing an interim prime minister and a council of ministers. Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who was locked out of Haiti when the airports closed, has said he will resign once the council is formed. (ABCnews)

Cayman Islands: Number of work permit holders reaches new record

After a slight decline at the end of last year, the number of work permit holders in the Cayman Islands, as of 11 March, reached a new record high of 36,972. According to a freedom of information request made by local attorneys HSM, this is an increase of 1,529 new permit holders since the start of the year. There are 15,439 Jamaican workers, which is still the largest group of WP holders (42% of the total). The next biggest groups are Filipinos (6,219), British (2,051) and Indians (2,032).

With a massive influx of expatriate workers, as well as wealthy foreign property owners and retirees, and people who came as part of the Global Citizen Concierge Programme, Cayman’s population has surged to unprecedented numbers, which is putting a huge strain on the local infrastructure, such as rental accommodation, traffic on the roads, supermarkets and overflowing hospitals.

According to HSM, there are currently 6,086 permanent residents in the Cayman Islands. The largest groups of nationalities are Jamaicans, British Overseas Territory citizens, British citizens, Canadians and Americans.

A growing population has led to an increase in the number of applications for permanent residency and Caymanian status. The processing of these applications in 2023 was incredibly slow because the board barely met, and their terms of appointment ran out in September. However, the UPM government appointed new line-ups to the immigration boards at the very end of 2023, which appears to have sped things up.

Huw Moses, a partner at HSM, said in an email to his many immigration clients that there

had been “a significant increase compared with prior periods in the determination of status applications based on marriage or naturalisation”.

In 2022, the Caymanian Status and Residency Board completed 432 applications for the Right to be Caymanian on the basis of marriage or naturalisation, up from 413 completed in 2021. Last year, only 160 such applications were concluded. However, the new board determined 57 last month alone, which means that, if it maintains that pace, it could clear

around 550 applications this year.

But new applications for status based on marriage or naturalisation — 35 in February — are adding to the large backlog, so it will still take many months, or even years, to get their decisions, HSM warned.

“In our opinion, no application should wait more than six months to be determined given the potential adverse consequences to applicants,” Moses stated in the update, as he gave an estimated timeline for people waiting on various applications. (See below)

In 2023, the board rejected

24 applications for the Right to be Caymanian on the Basis of Naturalisation. HSM was instructed on eight appeals from those 24 rejections, four of which relate to children of permanent residents who had PR in their own right and spent their formative years in the Cayman Islands.

However, they were denied status and informed that it was not in the public interest to grant them the right to be Caymanian. Moses said these decisions were made despite the fact that in 2022, the Immigration Appeals Tribunal overturned a decision made by the board in similar circumstances and granted a child the Right to be Caymanian.

Moses also gave an update on six appeals that HSM had made to the IAT on behalf of clients. He said that on 5 February, they were informed that all six decisions were favourable to their clients. In the children’s cases, the IAT said the status board had not provided an explanation as to what they had considered before they determined that the grant would not be in the public interest, and it “continued to apply a subjective assessment of the applications in the absence of policies”.

File: The Cayman Islands work force is made up of a diverse pool of workers

World News

UK interest rates: Bank boss says cuts ‘on the way’

The Bank of England boss has said “we are on the way” to interest rate cuts after they were left unchanged at 5.25%, their highest for 16 years.

The Bank still needed to see inflation fall further, but last month’s drop to 3.4% was “very encouraging and good news,” governor Andrew Bailey said.

But he said rate cuts could come before inflation hits its 2% target.

It leaves open the option that the Bank could cut interest rates as early as May, sooner than had been expected.

Mr Bailey sounded far more optimistic on rate cuts than the official statement accompanying the Bank’s decision to leave the cost of borrowing unchanged for the fifth time in a row.

Most economists had predicted interest rates would start to drop in the summer, especially after inflation fell to its lowest level in two and a half years in February.

“We don’t have to actually get inflation all the way back to target… to cut rates for instance, what we have to do is be convinced that it is going there. We should act ahead of time in that sense because

we have to be forward looking,” Mr Bailey told the BBC’s economics editor Faisal Islam who was interviewing him on behalf of UK broadcasters.

Mr Bailey added: “We do need to see further progress, but I do want to give this message very strongly we have had very encouraging and good news, so I think you know we can say - we are on the way.”

He said it was “reasonable” that financial markets were pricing in two or three rate cuts this year, but warned he would not “endorse” that view. “That’s not a prediction from me as to what’s going to happen, either on timing or amount, but I am encouraged,” he added.

The Bank has kept interest rates high in a bid to slow the pace at which consumer prices have been rising.

But eight of the nine Bank rate setters voted to leave rates unchanged in March, with only one voting in favour of a cut. Thursday marked the first time since September 2021 that no one on the Bank’s committee which decides rates voted for an increase.

On Thursday, the Bank said it

The Bank has kept interest rates high in a bid to slow the pace at which consumer prices have been rising

expected inflation to fall slightly below 2% by the summer, but warned that the conflict in the Middle East and disruption to one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes in the Red Sea posed “material risks” to prices surging again.

It added its contacts had said the Red Sea situation had delayed shipments by two to three weeks from Asia to Europe and that container costs had risen.

“The goods that are impacted are typically bulky items and

components, electrical, clothing and DIY,” it said.

‘IMPROVING OUTLOOK’

The Bank’s base rate informs the rates set by High Street banks and lenders. The higher level has meant people are paying more to borrow money for things such as mortgages and credit cards, but savers have also received better returns.

While it is independent from the government, the institution is charged with keeping price growth

at, or close to, a target of 2%. It either raises, holds or lowers rates to try to achieve that.

The theory behind increasing rates to tackle inflation is that by making borrowing more expensive, more people will cut back on spending and that leads to demand for goods falling and price rises easing.

But it’s a balancing act as high interest rates can harm the economy as businesses hold off on investing in production and jobs. (BBC)

Harris favourite to become Ireland’s new leader

One day on from Leo Varadkar’s resignation as taoiseach, it looks likely that Simon Harris could get a clear run to be Ireland’s next leader.

Mr Harris, 37, is currently the minister for further and higher education.

Three other ministers who were viewed as potential competitors have ruled themselves out of the top job.

Helen McEntee, Heather Humphreys and Paschal Donohoe have confirmed they will not contend the Fine Gael party’s leadership race.

Ms McEntee and Ms Humphreys have publicly said they will support Mr Harris in his bid to become leader.

Nominations for a new leader opened at 10:00 local time on Thursday and will close on Monday at 13:00.

If there is to be a contest the winner will be announced on 5 April.

Mr Varadkar pledged his

unequivocal support to his successor during a Fine Gael parliamentary party meeting on Wednesday night.

He said he would remain as a TD (member of parliament) but hoped his replacement at the top of the Irish government would take up office shortly after Easter.

Mr Harris was the early favourite

with many bookmakers.

He had garnered a healthy roster of backers before nominations even opened.

Fine Gael Minister of State Neale Richmond told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland programme that he would “absolutely be backing” Mr Harris.

He called him “the best person

for the job”.

It would mean the Republic of Ireland would have another young leader, following Mr Varadkar who was appointed taoiseach aged 38.

Mr Harris was the youngest member of the 31st Dáil at the age of 24 and became health minister in 2016.

There he led the department during a change in Ireland’s abortion law and at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic as emergency lockdown measures were introduced.

ANALYSIS

He was the boy wonder who dropped out of college to become a TD - he now stands a real chance of becoming taoiseach.

Wicklow’s Simon Harris says he was inspired by former Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny to get involved in politics.

Harris was distressed by the lack of services for his younger autistic brother when Kenny told him that joining politics was the only way

to make real change.

A go-getter, he went for it.

He went on to nominate Mr Kenny for taoiseach at the age of 24 in his maiden speech in 2011.

The one-time baby of the house has had a meteoric rise.

His career highpoint was overseeing the Repeal the Eighth referendum and subsequent abortion legislation as minister for health.

He grew in popularity during his tenure during the first half of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Post 2020, some suspected his “demotion” to minister for higher education was due to how ambitious he had become and perhaps Mr Varadkar sensed a threat.

Mr Harris was one of the first Irish politicians to embrace TikTok with some now dubbing him the first “TikTok taoiseach”.

It is all to play for with nominations open till next week, but in this racing season, Mr Harris is an odds-on favourite. (BBC)

Simon Harris is favourite to become the next taoiseach

World News

US accuses Apple of monopolising smartphone market

The US has filed a landmark lawsuit against Apple which accuses the tech giant of monopolising the smartphone market and crushing competition.

In the lawsuit, the justice department alleges the company used its control of the iPhone to illegally limit competitors and consumer options.

The complaint accuses it of squashing the growth of new apps and reducing the appeal of rival products.

Apple has vowed to “vigorously” fight the lawsuit and denies the claims.

The lawsuit, filed to a federal court in New Jersey, alleges that Apple used “a series of shapeshifting rules” in a bid to “thwart innovation” and “throttle” competitors.

In a statement, Attorney General Merrick Garland said the company “undermines apps, products and services that would otherwise make users less reliant on the iPhone...

Apple has vowed to “vigorously” fight the lawsuit and denies the claims

and lower costs for consumers and developers”.

The complaint lists a number of “anti-competitive” steps allegedly taken by the company, including blocking apps with broad functionality, suppressing mobile cloud streaming services, limiting third-party digital wallets and “diminishing the functionality” of smartwatches not made by the company.

At a news conference on Thursday, Mr Garland said Apple had “maintained its monopoly, not simply by staying ahead of the competition on the merits, but by violating federal antitrust laws”.

“Consumers should not have to pay higher prices because companies break the law,” Mr Garland said.

He pointed to the experience of iPhone users who message non-

Biden administration unveils strictest ever US car emission limits to boost EVs

President Joe Biden has announced the strictest regulation on vehicle exhaust emissions ever introduced in the US in a bid to accelerate the auto industry’s shift to electric cars.

It includes a target for 56% of all new US vehicles sold to be electric by 2032 - a huge increase from current levels.

In a concession to car-makers, the goal was softened from last year’s draft.

But the Biden administration says it will still dramatically reduce planet-warming gases.

Wednesday’s regulation will prevent 7bn tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions over the next 30 years, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The new measure increasingly

limits year by year the amount of pollution permitted from vehicle exhausts. Car-makers that do not meet the new standards will face stiff fines.

Companies will still be able to make petrol-powered vehicles, so long as they are a shrinking percentage of their total product line.

The US is taking a more moderate approach than the European Union and UK, which will ban all sales of petrol-powered cars from 2035.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced last year he was delaying the British ban by five years from its original deadline of 2030.

The American car industry pointed to slower electric vehicle (EV) sales growth in objecting to

Apple smartphones, which he said led to “limited functionality” including non-encrypted communications and pixelated images.

“Apple creates barriers that make it extremely difficult and expensive for both users and developers to venture outside the Apple ecosystem,” Mr Garland said.

A spokesman for Apple, Fred Sainz, told US media that the lawsuit was “wrong on the facts and the law” and that Apple would “vigorously defend against it”.

“The lawsuit threatens who we are and the principles that set Apple products apart in fiercely competitive markets,” Mr Sainz said. “If successful, it would hinder our ability to create the kind of technology people expect from Apple.”

It marks the third time Apple has been sued by the justice department since 2009, and is the

first antitrust challenge against the company under President Joe Biden’s administration.

Apple has faced a growing legal backlash over its iOS ecosystem and business practices. Last month, it was fined €1.8bn (£1.5bn) by the EU for breaking competition laws over music streaming.

The firm had prevented streaming services from informing users of payment options outside the Apple app store, the European Commission said.

Competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager said Apple had abused its dominant position in the market for a decade, and ordered the tech giant to remove all of the restrictions. Apple said it would appeal against the decision.

According to the justice department, Apple’s share of the US smartphone market exceeds 70%, and its share of the broader smartphone market exceeds 65%. (BBC)

King Charles III’s medical records not compromised after alleged Kate data breach

a draft of the rules last year that would have ensured such vehicles accounted for 67% of all new cars sold in 2032.

EVs made up less than 8% of all new car sales last year.

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a trade group representing the car industry, welcomed the slower pace of the rollout, but said the goal was still “extraordinarily ambitious”.

Environmental groups broadly welcomed the measure, though some activists expressed disappointment it was not stronger.

But the rules are expected to face legal challenges from the oil industry and Republican-led states. It could ultimately be settled by the Supreme Court.

The personal medical records of Britain’s King Charles III were not accessed in an alleged data breach at a London hospital, according to multiple British media outlets, including CNN affiliate ITV.

The Daily Mirror, a UK tabloid, was the first to report on the story.

This development comes a day after the United Kingdom’s data privacy watchdog, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), confirmed it was “assessing” reports that a hospital staffer had tried to access the Princess of Wales’ medical notes. She was discharged from the facility on January 29 following an unspecified abdominal surgery.

The King, who is currently

undergoing treatment for cancer, was being separately treated at the same hospital for an enlarged prostate and left hours after his daughter-in-law.

Buckingham Palace said it had no comment when approached by CNN on Thursday morning.

Several British media outlets citing the Daily Mirror reported on Thursday that up to three staff members at the clinic were being investigated in connection with the alleged incident over Kate’s records.

CNN has reached out to Kensington Palace regarding the latest reports surrounding the Princess of Wales’ medical data but has yet to hear back.

Britain’s King Charles III leaves the London Clinic on January 29 after receiving treatment for an enlarged prostate

Biden at the 2022 Detroit car show

Jersey City mum violently attacked by ‘taxi driver’ on Turks and Caicos vacation

After being violently attacked during a taxi ride in Turks and Caicos, a mother from Jersey City is now warning other travellers to practice caution while vacationing abroad.

“What seemed like a place of paradise on my last day turned into a complete nightmare,” Suyapa Ramos wrote in a post on GoFundMe earlier this week.

Ramos, 48, says she was beaten brutally on March 10, the last night of her trip to the islands, she told

ABC 7 on Thursday. She was out at a bar past the time when taxis normally run, and was offered a ride by a man claiming to work as a driver.

“Everyone knew him at the establishment [and no one] interjected when he said he drove a taxi so I believed him,” Ramos wrote on GoFundMe. “With no way of getting back to the hotel and since he said he did taxi, I went.”

Ramos doesn’t know what prompted Davidson Martin to later

attack her while she was in his car, but said, “he was growling at me, he was trying to poke my eye out.”

“I fought for my life,” she told ABC 7. “It was so scary to feel yourself so close to death.”

Eventually, Ramos was able to escape Martin’s grip and run out onto the street where she flagged down a car, which then took her to the hospital.

In images posted to her GoFundMe, Ramos is shown with multiple scars and heavy bruises

from the incident.

She’s asking for donations to help with her medical bills and other expenses, as she’s currently unable to work. She’s also trying to save up money to return to Turks and Caicos to face her alleged attacker in court.

Martin, 29, of Grand Turk, was arrested on March 12 in connection with the case and charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm.

He’s currently being held on $10,000 bail and is due back in court in May.

The U.S. State Department advises “increased caution” while traveling to Turks and Caicos, and recommends not walking alone at night in the region. Still, the British territory is only listed as a Level 2 Travel Advisory, with Level 3 being “Reconsider Travel” and Level 4 being “Do Not Travel.”

“Be careful where you travel to because paradise can turn into a nightmare for anyone but especially a woman and tourists,” Ramos said. (NYDailynews)

CONTACT: 247-4924

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 247-4924

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL Cleaning

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 246-8103 41657

KVANAR LTD is seeking a PROCUREMENT / PURCHASING OFFICER FOR

IMMEDIATE EMPLOYMENT

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE NEEDED:

• Hold a minimum of 5 years’ experience in the purchasing of construction materials ranging from rough/first fix materials to finish/final fix items.

• Have a concise understanding of all construction materials including, but not limited to, lumber & masonry products, windows, doors, hardware, appliances, cabinetry, electrical & plumbing materials, tiles, drywall, paint etc.

• Excellent written and oral skills and advanced experience in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Plan swift (or equivalent) and able to create detailed purchasing schedules, financial analysists, procurement programs, take offs and reports.

• Must have the ability to easily read and understand construction drawings & plans and provide detailed take offs from the same and have a good understanding of physical construction schedules.

• Be willing to seek out new suppliers, negotiate competitive pricing and assist the office with purchase orders and monthly construction claims.

• Have experience in shipping logistics, preparing all necessary documentation to ship, receive and inventory materials ordered.

• Extensive experience in design build projects would be an asset as the employee will work closely with the design department in the development of future projects.

• Employee must be fluent in written and oral English. Other written and oral languages would be an asset (in particular French and Spanish).

• Salary Range Dependant on Individuals Qualifications and Experience, plus company Cell Phone. Annual Bonus Scheme Offered based upon Employee and Company Performance.

• Please email résumé and covering letter to info@kvanar.com and also deliver a copy to our main office at the following address: 390 Leeward Highway, Long Bay, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands (Tel 649 333 2210).

• Islanders applying for this position are encouraged, in addition to providing a copy of their resume and covering letter to the company, to provide the same to the TCIG Labor Board & Immigration Board for consideration.

• Applicants should be aware that one of the requirements of the interview for this position will be for the candidate to provide a live demonstration of their ability to read construction drawings, operate take off software and produce associated schedules.

Please email résumé and covering letter to info@kvanar.com and deliver a copy to our main office at the following address: 390 Leeward Highway, Long Bay, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands (Tel 649 333 2210).

Islanders applying for this position are encouraged, in addition to providing a copy of their resume and covering letter to the company, to provide the same to the TCIG Labor Board & Immigration Board for consideration.

JMLM (TI) Island Property Ltd of No.1 Caribbean Place, Leeward Hwy Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands gives notice of its intention to sell by public auction the following property pursuant to its power of sale as registered chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands

PARCEL 60804/189

Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales. 0.35.

Registered proprietors: Cavenham Capita (TCI) ltd

The auction will be held at No.1 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway Providenciales at 11.0am on 25th March 2024. A reserve price will be fixed and a deposit of 10% is due immediately upon an accepted bid. Conditions of sale available at the auction.

B & S COOLING SERVICES

PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

CONTACT NO. 941-8112

Is seeking to employ:

MAINTENANCE WORKER

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Survey buildings and repair refrigeration & mechanical systems to ensure they are consistent with health and safety standards

• Perform maintenance of electrical& refrigeration systems.

• Setup of ventilation, refrigeration, and other systems and conduct repairs when necessary

• Maintain and repair plumbing and heating& cooling components

• Prepare, prime, and paint building interior and exterior surfaces

• Maintain and repair Hill Phoenix racking and other HVAC systems.

• Perform manual repairs, when necessary, on refrigeration and other equipment

• Conduct general upkeep procedures and other tasks as assigned (painting, carpentry, etc.)

• Compile with all policies for the safe storage, usage, and disposal of hazardous materials.

• Participate in ongoing technical, safety, and operational process training programs

• Maintain a clean and safe work environment

• Document work performance and materials procurement as directed

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous working experience as a Maintenance Technician for 10+ years (s)

• High school diploma

• Relevant certification in HVAC, CMRP, etc.

• Advanced understanding of electrical, refrigeration, and other systems

• In-depth knowledge of general maintenance processes and methods

• Applicable knowledge of tools, common appliances, and devices

• Manual dexterity and attention to detail

• Problem-solving aptitude

• Good physical condition

This position is for the renewal of work permits. The salary for this position is $12.00 per hour.

41674

NOTICE OF DORMANT ACCOUNT

SCOTIABANK (TCI) LTD

The public is hereby given notice that SCOTIABANK (TCI) LTD holds the following dormant accounts: Scotiabank invites heirs, next of kin, executors, to contact the Bank concerning deceased clients.

Chequing Account ALINGTON JONAS BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account PEARLINE HINSON FREDERICK ST. GRAND TURK

Chequing Account JULIUS RIGBY WEST ROAD, GRAND TURK

Business Current Account TURTLE ARCHITECTS USA

Chequing Account MARIE OSCAR-HINSONMA MATILDA WAY, PROVIDENCIALES

Savings Account JOSEPH FELIZOR FIVE CAYS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account HOPEFUL HANDFIELD AIRPORT ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account JULSON TELUSMA FIVE CAYS, PROVIDENCIALES

Savings Account DUERADO HANDFIELD BOTTLE CREEK, NORTH CAICOS

Savings Account DOUGLAS GLENN RUSE GRAND VIEW, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account ANGELA RAMCHARITAR AIRPORT ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES

Savings Account JEFFERSON SEIDE BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account JOSEPH GARDERE PROVIDENCIALES

Chequing Account KAZIAH BURKE LONG BAY, PROVIDENCIALES ACCOUNT TYP E

NAME LAST KNOWN ADDRESS

Chequing Account ALAN DUFFY LEEWARD PALMS, PROVIDENCIALES

Current Account CAICOS LANDSCAPING BLUE MOUNTAIN, PROVIDENCIALES Business Current Account WATER’S EDGE BISTRO HIBISCUS SQ. GRAND TURK Business Current Account ALAMO LTD PO.BOX 65 GRAND TURK

Current Account AMERIGLOBE INSURANCE P.O BOX 103

THE PUBLIC IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN NOTICE OF THE FOLLOWING –

1. Unless one or more of the following transactions are effected on a dormant account listed above on or before the 15th day of April 2024, the monies in the dormant account will be transferred to the general revenue of the Islands without further notice-

(a) Increase or decrease the amount held or owed in the Financial Institution1;

(b) Present the passbook or other record for the crediting of interest or dividends in respect to any general deposit, demand deposit, savings deposit or deposit for a fixed period, made in the Islands;

1 Interest paid, or account fees applied, by a Financial Institution on monies held or owed in the Financial Institution shall not be regarded as a transaction which increase or decreases the amount held in the Financial Institution pursuant to section 4(4) of the Dormant Accounts Ordinance.

(c) Correspond in writing with the Financial Institution concerning the monies; or

(d) Otherwise indicate an interest in the monies as evidenced in writing by the Financial Institution.

2. Subject to the Dormant Accounts Ordinance, on the transfer of the monies in the dormant account to the general revenue of the Islands, the dormant account holder will no longer have any right against the Financial Institution to the repayment of the monies transferred, but the dormant account holder will have against the Government such right to repayment of the monies transferred that the dormant account holder would have had against the Financial Institution.

3. Any interested person should contact the Financial Institution mentioned above to establish if that person is a dormant account holder.

Ruth Forbes appointed to global professional accounting advisory group

FortisTCI President and CEO

Ruth Forbes has been nominated by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) to serve on the International Federation of Accountants’ Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group (IFAC PAIB).

The PAIB’s Advisory Group is a global corps of business and finance leaders who consider and address trends affecting business and public sector organisations and their professional accountants.

Her appointment to the IFAC PAIB Advisory Group is for a period of three years, ending on December 31, 2026.

As the IMA’s representative, Forbes will contribute to the IFAC PAIB Advisory Group’s strategic involvement in business and accountancy matters, support IFAC’s initiatives and projects, and be involved in stakeholder engagement across the global accounting profession.

Commenting on her appointment, Forbes stated: “It is a special honour for me to be nominated to serve on IFAC’s PAIB Advisory Group, and a remarkable

opportunity to represent the accounting profession on this global body.

“The profession plays a significant role in shaping the strategic direction, governance framework, and, ultimately, the success of private sector companies and public organizations.

She said she looks forward to helping the PAIB Advisory Group advance the accounting profession and nurturing the relationships that she will develop with her global colleagues.

“I am thankful that through this appointment, I can also contribute to the profession’s evolution and help guide the next generation of leaders.”

The group welcomes members who, through their experiences, are knowledgeable about the demands and needs of organisations and the business environment and recognise the importance of accountancy professionalism and expertise to their success.

The group advocates for professional accountants in business and supports effective corporate governance.

The PAIB’s Advisory Group members are nominated by a professional accounting organisation.

Forbes is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Barry University. She also completed the Directors Education Program and received the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors through the University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management.

She has been serving as President and CEO of FortisTCI since 2020.

She is also one of the few female CEOs in the utility sector serving the Caribbean region. She also was Senior Vice President of Corporate Services, Chief Financial Officer, and Company Secretary at FortisTCI and has 17 years of experience in the energy industry.

She serves as a Director on the boards of FortisOntario and Fortis Belize Limited. She is also a Director on the board of The

Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC). She has served for three years as the

Governor’s Appointed Member of the Public Accounts Committee of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

TCI Red Cross to host third Red Hot Challenge

The TCI Red Cross (TCIRC) will be hosting its third annual Red Hot Challenge, a fun and vibrant sporting event scheduled for June 1, at the National Stadium in Providenciales.

After a successful turnout last year, with over 15 teams competing for top honours, the event is back, calling on the TCI community and businesses to join in the spirited competition for a shot at trophies, medals, and the coveted title of champion.

TCI Red Cross Director Candianne Williams expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event, expressing her hope for an increase in team participation in this year’s Red Hot Challenge.

“We are so excited about the third annual Red Hot Challenge, and we encourage individuals and the corporate community to once again join us for an exciting day of fun, camaraderie, community spirit, and sportsmanship as we come together to support the Red Cross and its humanitarian efforts,” she said.

Participants can look forward to a day of fun and friendly competition as they come together to support a worthy cause.

“If your team is up for the challenge, then we encourage you to join us for an all-day fun-filled

festival of sporting events ranging from non-athletic

athletic,” Williams encouraged

colleagues to join us for a day filled with fun and excitement.”

The event will be hosted from 8am to 3pm this coming June 1, and registered team members will receive complimentary T-shirts to mark the occasion.

Teams can enter for $1,000 each, with a maximum of 10 participants permitted.

Attendees can join in for a $5 general admission fee, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free entry (accompanied by an adult).

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to register a team, organizers are encouraging interested persons to call 649-241-2905 or 649232-8760 or email admin@ redcross.org.tc. Additionally, persons can also visit the new TCIRC headquarters at Sunshine Plaza, 1005 Leeward Highway in Providenciales.

The event will showcase a total of 20 competitions: 10 non-athletic and athletic contests games. Participants can enjoy a range of activities such as spoon relay races, egg tosses, water balloon tosses, sprints, tug-of-war, arm wrestling, soccer kicks, and so much more.

individuals and corporate teams.

Karen Whitt, VP of Marketing at Hartling Group and Chair of the Fundraising Committee for the TCIRC, said that the Red Hot Challenge welcomes both

“We depend on the kindness of individuals and businesses to ensure the success of this event. We urge everyone to get involved, particularly the corporate community. So, we encourage you to gather your employees and

“Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting event that promotes sportsmanship and community engagement. Register your team today and make a difference in our community,” Williams said.

All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the TCI Red Cross vital humanitarian efforts in disaster preparedness, relief, and recovery.

FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes

TCI Red Cross’ Red Hot Challenge is back with a bang (Photo: TCI Red Cross)

to

Jonathan Majors: Marvel actor sued by ex-girlfriend for alleged assault

US actor Jonathan Majors, known for playing Kang in the Marvel films, has been sued by his ex-girlfriend.

British choreographer Grace Jabbari filed a civil lawsuit on Tuesday in a New York federal court.

She alleges she was a victim of battery, assault, intentional infliction of emotional distress,

malicious prosecution and defamation.

It comes three months after a jury convicted Majors of attacking and harassing Ms Jabbari.

He could face up to a year in prison when he is sentenced in April.

Court documents submitted on Tuesday contain further allegations,

with Ms Jabbari claiming Majors subjected her to a “pattern of pervasive domestic abuse that began in 2021 and extended through 2023”.

The documents also detail several alleged violent interactions as well as “verbal assaults and frightening anger”.

The lawsuit also claims that in September 2022, Majors attacked Ms Jabbari and caused “serious injuries to her body”.

“Soon after, Grace disclosed the physical abuse to a member of Jonathan’s management team in an effort to get him help. Majors was furious when he learned that Grace had outed

him as an abuser,” it said.

Priya Chaudhry, a lawyer acting on behalf of Majors, said the lawsuit was “no surprise” and that Majors was “preparing counterclaims against Ms Jabbari”.

Ms Jabbari’s lawyer Brittany Henderson praised the British actress and said in a statement that it “takes true bravery to hold someone with this level of power and acclaim accountable”.

After Majors’ criminal conviction in December, a Marvel spokesperson said the studio would no longer work with the actor.

In an interview in January, he said he was “shocked” by the jury’s verdict.

‘Will & Grace’ star, says roles should go to best actors, irrespective of sexuality

Actor Eric McCormack has weighed in on the debate around whether non-LGBT actors should be able to play gay characters.

McCormack, who is straight but is best known for playing gay lawyer Will Truman in the NBC comedy series “Will & Grace,” said in an interview on British television Monday that he still hopes “the best person for the role” would be cast, regardless of their sexuality.

Susanna Reid, a cohost on ITV’s “Good Morning Britain” show, asked McCormack what he thought about straight actors playing gay characters.

“That’s a tough one for me, because I didn’t become an actor so that I could play an actor,” said McCormack.

“There’s no part I’ve

ever played where I wasn’t playing something I’m not. It’s part of the gig.”

“And I’ve always said: ‘If gay actors weren’t allowed to play straight actors, Broadway would be over,’” he added.

“So this is what we do. I’d like to think that I represent it well, you know, literally. I came from the theater, and one of my best friends was a gay man.”

“So I think I took their spirit and their message in what was otherwise just a sitcom and, represented it, I hope,” said the Canadianborn actor.

“Good Morning Britain” co-host Ed Balls then asked McCormack whether he felt he would be cast as Will if the show were being made today.

Jonathan Majors and his Ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari

Eric McCormack and “Will & Grace” costar Debra Messing in June 2023

AUTO SALES

G

ERLINE CHARLES

•

•

•

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 649-241-5563

BELONGERS

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

Salary: $9.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-7379

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: 342-7421

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

Installs pipes and fixtures, installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-9399

Assemble install, test, and maintain electrical or electronic wiring, equipment, appliances, apparatus, and fixtures, using tools and power tools

Salary: $12.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-9287 41566

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO

Salary:

CONTACT:

CONTACT: 331-3887

BELONGERS

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: 649-344-1567

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

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. IS

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-346-2583

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-6150

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41571

PUBLIC NOTICE

Building roofs, casing etc.

Salary: $12.00 hourly CARPENTER

CONTACT: 649-242-2548

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41664

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, 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 Lanie Selius Pierre/ Regis by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

•

years of Restaurant and Hotel experience including

• Knowledge of food costing and controls, monthly inventory and FB training experience is a must

• Knowledge of food hygiene and safety, menu planning, managing and scheduling staff,

• Plus the knowledge and experience of worldwide pastries, desserts and chocolates

•

selection of wines as costing and menu print

• Use of micros POS system, Applicant should be able to both operate and program the POS.

• This position above requires working long hour’s nights and days public holidays and weekends

• Salary range is about $45, 000 per annum

LIVE-IN BUTLER AND VILLA RESIDENTIAL MANAGER

A live-in Butler and Villa Residential Manager is required to work in a luxury private family home/villa located in Leeward. Exceptional housekeeping and F&B skills are essential to this position.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To include but not limited to the following:

• Managing the smooth running of the villa for the owner, the family and personal guests.

• Ensuring that all areas of the villa are cleaned & maintained to the highest standard.

• Ensuring areas such as pool patios and gardens are clean.

• Provide first class food and beverage service.

• Ensuring dining setup properly for each meal.

• Ensuring efficient preparation and service of food and beverages.

• Ensuring villa is set up properly prior to owner’s arrival on island.

• Maintaining an inventory for all items in the villa as necessary.

• Ensuring the daily tracking of utility readings supervision of outside contractors.

• Carrying out regular checks on all equipment & furnishings, reporting any damage or breakage immediately to villa manager or owner and following up on repairs.

• Being present or regularly checking on maintenance /outside contractors working in the villa to ensure no damage or theft in the villa.

• Being knowledgeable with regard to villa facilities & amenities.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• At least 5 years’ experience as a butler or similar position in a high-end residence or resort.

• Possess an exceptional eye for detail and standard with regards housekeeping service.

• Be able to work well under pressure.

• Be flexible in dealing with last minute requests.

• Experience in handling high profile personal guests of the owner.

Due to the nature of this position this is offered as a live-in position only

Salary $60,000.00 per annum.

or send by fax to 946 4663.

Prospective TC Islander applicants are also encouraged to lodge a copy of their application with the Employment Services Department.

SKILLS REQUIRED:

CNC ROUTER

5 years’ work experience in operating a CNC machine and 5 heads molder. Knowledge in manufacturing furniture, woodworking, joinery and cabinet making.

Salary at $12.00 per hour

CARPENTER FINISHER

SKILLS REQUIRED:

5 years’ work experience in technic that involves making custom-made stains, applying/spraying coatings such as polyurethane/conversion varnish/lacquer. On product made in manufacturing department. Includes furniture, doors, windows, cabinet making, etc.

Salary at $11.00 per hour

FURNITURE CARPENTER & CARPENTER

SKILLS REQUIRED:

5 years work experience in manufacturing furniture, woodworking, joinery and cabinet making.

2 Salary offered at $10.00 $11.00 per hour.

LABOURER

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• 5 years’ work experience in helping in manufacturing furniture, woodworking, joinery and cabinet making.

• Trained to help cabinet maker, furniture carpenter

• Cleaning the shop, offload materials, stack materials

Salary at $11.00 per hour

TRADESMAN

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• To utilize wood, metal and other materials, install cabinets and shelves, hang drywall, install molding and trim, and ensure measurements and cuts are accurate, may also perform repair work and install hardware. Temporary structures like scaffolds, etc.

• Trained to help cabinet maker, furniture carpenter.

• Cleaning the shop, offload materials, stack materials

Salary at $8.00 per hour

SKILLS REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS ABOVE:

• Individual must have previous experience with manufacture, construction, and installation of high-end cabinetry.

• Must be familiar with operation of all current woodworking machinery and tools with proper safety practices.

• Must be able to read Auto-Cad drawings.

• English speaking, bilingual preferred.

manufacturing, finishing and or re-finishing of furniture, cabinets and woodwork in general including installation. Assist other employees in general millshop operations and maintenance. Must be professional and courteous.

HR COORDINATOR

• Compiles all compliance and mandates reporting requirements including those related to the Department of Labor

• Ensures that the labor and immigration law posters are updated as necessary and as required.

• Ensures all personnel records are maintained as per requirements. Maintain and Update Employee Personal Files.

• Handle Employee Resignation, Exit Interview, Clearance, Closing Activation and Final Settlement as required

• Arrange all the event management issues for the office on different occasions such as: Employee of the month program, Birthday and Farewell Program

• Assist with the set-up of apartments for new arrivals, with strict adherence to policies, procedures, and check lists.

• Prepare monthly updated staff housing list.

• Check the condition of the building and all electrical and plumbing before releasing the apartment as ready for occupancy. Assist with housing briefing for all new staff tenants.

• Liaise with internal departments regarding housing related services, e.g. Housekeeping, Engineering, Landscaping, Laundry, etc. as and when necessary.

• Maintain staff housing entry & exit inventories. Check inventories with tenants before their departure; collect all loaned items such as apartment keys and advise the Finance department if any are missing for deduction of cost from final pay settlement.

• Maintain on-going records of tenancy and unit history. Prepare and submit monthly reports of tenancy and costs of repairs and replacements.

• Identify, recommend, and review staff housing needs with Human Resources Manager Salary starts at: $38,000.00 annually.

GROUPS & EVENTS COORDINATOR

• Coordinate and lead execution of all Group and Event-related gatherings.

• Coordinate and host Group and Event-related site inspections.

• Respond to all Group and Event-related guest requests, complaints and/or accidents as reported via Front Desk, Reservations, online forums, survey responses, emails, letters and/ or phone calls, in an attentive, courteous, and efficient manner. Follow up to ensure guest satisfaction.

• Immediately report any travel agent V.I.P. guest concerns and/or service recovery issues and actions taken or pending to the Director of sales

• Monitor guest feedback to identify service improvement opportunities.

• Produce weekly “Event Overview” document for circulation to all hotel teams, as needed.

• Coordinate with the Sales and Marketing team as needed to communicate private events that may impact other guests and/or sales efforts.

• Assist in the development of marketing strategies to promote the hotel brand and increase Group and Event sales revenue from existing guests, report opportunities to Director of sales.

• Assist with the implementation of Group sales, Event, marketing, and revenue strategies.

Salary starts at: $30,000.00 annually.

COMPUTER & INFORMATION SYSTEMS DIRECTOR

• Planning and directing installation and maintenance of the organization’s computer software and hardware.

• Ensuring the security of the organization’s data network and all electronic documents

• Learning new technologies and coming up with alternative ways to upgrade the organization’s computer network.

• Determining short and long-term individual needs in the department

• Negotiating with salespersons to get the best service for the organization’s computer systems.

• Overseeing computer-related activities in the organization and recommending actions for improvement

• Troubleshooting and solving network system problems

• Keeping technical projects under budget and on schedule

• Managing a group of staff including analysts, programmers, and support specialists

• Evaluating the functionality of the organization’s computer system

• Ensuring adherence to all software licensing laws

• Providing user support, training, advice, and feedback

• Developing and implementing maintenance procedures

Salary starts at: $69,996.00 annually.

• 10 years knowledge of Artisan style pizza making.

• Knowledge of short and long rising dough’s.

• Experience with a high temperature refractory ovens.

• Willing to work weekends, evenings and holidays.

• Available 6 nights per week

• Must speak, read and write English

• Must have clean police record.

• Salary $600.00 Weekly

CONTACT: BELLA@TCIWAY.COM OR 649-331-6763 41604

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL DEADLINE: MARCH 25TH ,

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

Jehovah’s Witnesses Launch Invitation Campaign

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS RESIDENTS INVITED TO TWO SPECIAL EVENTS IN MARCH

Turks and Caicos Islands – March 4tht, 2024

–

During March 2024, Jehovah’s Witnesses will be launching a special campaign to invite fellow residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands to two special events.

On Sunday, March 24, millions of Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world will gather to commemorate the death of Jesus Christ, an observance Jesus himself instituted in the Gospels.

“Every year, Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world look forward to observing the Memorial of Christ death, an event that is very close to their hearts,” said Louis Cesar, spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “Worldwide millions who are not Witnesses have accepted our invitation to attend this special annual event,” he continued, “ and we anticipate extending an open invitation for all in our local community to once again join us in remembering Jesus Christ”

The annual observance of the Lord’s Evening Meal will feature a discourse highlighting the significance of Jesus’ death and what it means for all of mankind.

Free and open to the public, the one-hour event will begin and conclude with prayer.

To learn more about how Jehovah’s Witnesses observe the Lord’s Supper, please visit the event’s Frequently Asked Questions page found on jw.org , the official website of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Before the Memorial, a special discourse titled, “The Resurrection—Victory Over Death! , will be delivered at local Kingdom Halls on the weekend of March 16 and 17, 2024.

The 30-minute, Bible-based public talk will focus on the scriptural hope of a resurrection of the dead in the near future.

Starting salary $12.00/ hr

Driving dump trucks and operating heavy equipment including backhoes, skid steers, excavators and rollers.

Starting salary $12.00/hr

Routine maintenance of the company's vehicle fleet.

Starting salary $15.00/hr

Coordinating and supervising grading and paving crews to perform various tasks.

Starting salary $8.00/hr

Cleaning and preparing the job site for installation of asphalt, loading and delivering materials, and using a variety

Basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing.

$8.00 Hourly

247-1957/231-0640

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41551

Cleaning

CONTACT: 232-0071

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41600

CONTACT:

Setting up workstations.

Preparing ingredients, chopping

Salary:

CONTACT: 244-1801/244-1809

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

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.

CONTACT:

• Must be knowledgable in all aspects of butchery with experience breaking down primal and subprimal animals

• Must have 5-7 years experience in a simaler role

• Must have experience with making charcuterie and

sausages

• Must have experience with ordering and inventory pars

• Must be personable, goal driven and detail oriented

• Monthly salary of $5,000$7000 monthly depending on experience

v

Setting up workstations. Preparing ingredients, chopping, and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers. Salary: $8.00 hour weekly

Prep and prepare all meals at a timely manner and the ability to work with little or no supervision.

Salary $10.00 hour weekly

Providing customers with menus. Waiting for the customers to place their orders. Taking customer orders and relaying them to the kitchen. Serving food and beverages to customers. Preparing bills and processing payments. SALARY: $8.00 Hourly weekly

CONTACT: HOG ROAD RESTAURANT

BELFIELD DOCK, NORTH CAICOS, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS EMAIL:INFO@HOGROAD.COM

SWEEP AWAY CLEANING SERVICES

Granny Hill, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER

EASYWAY EMPLOYEMENT SERVICES

809

342-2165

$9.00

Mix

JAY’S RENT A CAR

Five Cays (across from Tropical)

348-0030 CLEANER

$8.00

Cleaning vehicles, vacuuming, washing, etc.

JEAN MILORD TOUSSAINT

$8.00

LOURDINE OXCE

Jones hills, Blue Hills

$8.00

Caring for two children, clean, wash, iron and cook

JACOB

342-2981

Blue Hills

$8.00

M

342-4747

Millennium highway TAILOR

$9.00 hr

Create custom clothing for men and women, take measurements and clothing alteration

ORETA DORINE BEEN

Blue Hills (front Road) 232-5164

DOMESTIC

$8.00

Cleaning home and restaurant, wash, iron and cook

VIVIO SHOP

346-2270

Storage unit 203- 204 D

STORE HELPER

$8.00

Store cleaning, put good outside on display, assist customer with heavy lifting.

ROLDSON LACOSSADE

Blue Hills 342-2707

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for children and home, wash, cook, iron and clean

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-2015

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41724

PHONE: (649) 247-9909

T&C SECRETARIAL SERVICES

Wilson Circle, Blue Hills

Acting on behalf of

3F LUXURY HAIR BEAUTY SALON

2 HAIRSTYLISTS $8.00 hourly

Washing and styling hair.

1 NAIL TECHNICIAN $8.00 hourly Perform manicures, pedicures and nail care.

JACQUELIN BERNADIN LABOURER $8.00 hourly Perform cleaning and repair duties.

CONTACT: 649-331-2251

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

41760

TANIS WAKE-FORBES

#121 Man O’ War Road, Long Bay Hills Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: TAWAKE@TCIWAY.TC OR 231-5012

BELONGERS ARE TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41651

• Hold a minimum of 4 years’ experience in the field of finish carpentry – including, but not necessarily limited to, internal doors & frames, baseboards, lumber roof finishes and millwork in general.

• Some experience in rough carpentry (formwork etc.) would be an asset – but not essential.

• Have a concise understanding of all finish carpentry materials and be able to fully interpret, read and understand architectural and shop drawings and have a very high level of finishes experience.

• Employee must be fluent in written and oral English. (French and Spanish would be an asset)

• Employees will also need to be computer proficient as many drawings and schedules being used on site will be computer/tablet based not in the form of hard paper drawings.

• Must be able to work under own direction and able to manage subordinates.

• Must be willing to work outside of the normal working hours of operation (weekends and public holidays)

• Salary $15 hourly (subject to overtime and public holiday pay where applicable)

CONTACT: 241-0452

RENEWAL,

Responsible for purchasing products, materials, and services. Duties include assessing the market, ordering new products, and keeping accurate records.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0160

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

Manual labor such as digging trenches, holes, cleaning irrigation tanks, moving equipment, moving soil, cleaning and assisting technicians on other duties as require.

Salary 8.00/hr

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing

2 CLEANERS

Cleaning villas, houses and schools, etc.

Cleaning and maintaining the work area

Salary: $8.00 Hourly, 6 days per week

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Care for the garden, water plants including soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, raking, weeding, edging, seed sowing, cleaning the yard,

RENEWAL, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.

CONTACT: 649-941-5579 41742

CONTACT: 243-8950

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE

CONTACT: 649-347-7980

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41625

CONTACT: 649-341-3168

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41609

GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES IS LOOKING TO HIRE TALENTED CANDIDATES TO JOIN OUR TEAM!

COST CONTROLLER

(starting salary $30,000 per annum)

Oversee and manage all financial aspects related to the restaurant’s cost control. You will play a crucial role in maximizing profitability by monitoring expenses, implementing cost-saving measures, analyzing financial data, and ensuring adherence to budgetary guidelines.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Financial Monitoring and Analysis/Inventory Management/Vendor Management/Cost Control Strategies/Financial Compliance/Training and Communication/Restaurant Operations/Guest Satisfaction

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• A minimum of 3 years of successfully managing F&B operations.

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial analysis and reporting.

• Proven leadership with excellent management and interpersonal skills.

• Exceptional customer relations skills.

• Food Service Management, Restaurant Management, or Hospitality degree is a plus.

• Proficiency in MS Office and POS systems

• Extensive knowledge and ability to negotiate food purchasing terms, pricing, and delivery based on budget and schedule requirements

INVENTORY CHECKER

(starting salary $10 per hour)

Ensure accuracy and correctness of inventory movement. Also, responsible for keeping inventory records, overseeing the ordering of inventory, conducting physical counts of inventory, and updating inventory records.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Customer Order Processing and Management/ Coordinating stock counts/Analysing discrepancies/Monitoring inventory levels and

planning delivery schedules/Creating reports

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Degree in Business Management or similar

• Experience in an entry-level role in logistics, supply chain operations, or a similar field.

• Good analytical and logistical thinking abilities.

• Knowledge of inventory control methods and techniques

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry

• Ability to communicate effectively in English both in written format and oral presentation; second language is an asset

RETAIL STORE MANAGER

(starting salary $40,000 per annum)

Responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of assigned retail outlets, and for ensuring customers have access to desired products.

KEY RESULTS AREAS:

Customer Statement Processing and Management/ Accounts Monitoring and Reconciliation/Payment Processing/Collection Activities/Reporting and Documentation/Customer Service and Communication

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing or related discipline OR 5 years sales/marketing experience OR combination of education and relevant experience in the Wine and Spirits industry

• Familiarity with the latest trends, technologies and methodologies

• Prior experience working in a retail store setting

• Proficient in MS Office software, with emphasis on Word and Excel

• Minimum of Level 2 WSET or equivalent qualifications in The Wine and Spirits Industry.

• Strong analytical skills and reporting abilities.

• Ability to communicate effectively in English both in written format and oral presentation; second language is an asset

Cleaning

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

CONTACT: 232-7630 41687

Cleaning

the

pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, lifting heavy objects, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Smooth Surfaces of objects or equipment. Roll new rubber treads. Repair tires. Order replacements. Order materials, supplies, or equipment. Prepare rims and wheel drums for reassembly.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Salary: $15.00 hourly

CONTACT: 242-3546 41770

CONTACT: 331-5918

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41685

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

RENEWAL,

CONTACT: 947-6909

BELONGERS

41699

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-343-6410

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41753

buildings, and machines. Tasks include plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 345-5616

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41656

Applicant must be willing to work, honest and reliable.

General housework such as washing, ironing, cooking and cleaning.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-331-8166

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41752

LOFTON

Salary:

Hourly

CONTACT: 231-5109

CONTACT: 242-0287

BELONGERS

Ensuring

Salary:

CONTACT: 243-0397 41661

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

Salary:

CONTACT:

NICOLAS LETANG

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

Cleaning of shop, sweeping, mopping and dusting.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5914

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41691

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-1532

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

Salary:

CONTACT: 347-0283

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41658

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: 344-5390

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL Fix

Salary:

CONTACT: 649-244-4813

CONTACT: 342-0803

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE

Greets customers, receive payment, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Ensure money is accurate and correct and be in charge of office.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 244-2327

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41719

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, deep conditioning, permanents, coloring, and weaving.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 241-2550

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Salary:

CONTACT: 346-5546

BELONGERS

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 342-4436

JOHN

JUNIOR ETIENNE RIGBY

JOSENIE

KEKE

KENNRICK GARDINER

LATASHA MILANDA JENNINGS

LUCIEN

v

/ JULINE HIGGS

GENERAL WORKERS BEACH ATTENDANTS

(unskilled) to carry out daily activities associated with tours provided to mainly cruise ship guests, at the beach and other locations. To work closely with the Management Team. To assist the Operations Manager, with the preparation and executing of customer service activities for all cruise ship and local guests, during their beach visits.

ONE DOMESTIC WORKER

To care for basic household chores, without supervision.

PAYMENT STARTS AT $8.00 PER HOUR, BASED ON EXPERIENCE.

PLEASE SEND ALL WRITTEN APPLICATIONS WITH A CURRENT PHOTO ID, LEGAL STATUS AND A CHARACTER REFERENCE LETTER TO:

DWIGHT OR JULINE HIGGS

OFFICE ESSENTIALS PLUS, WINDMILLS PLAZA, UNIT #2

GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS CONTACT NUMBERS: 649-2310400 OR 649-2316975 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDERS, SHOULD ALSO FORWARD A COPY TO THE LABOUR BOARD OFFICE.

KVANAR LTD

is seeking a

SITE SUPERVISOR / ENGINEER FOR

IMMEDIATE EMPLOYMENT

POSITION OVERVIEW

BSc Building Management / Civil Engineering Graduate with a minimum of 5 years construction experience.

The prospective person must be a leader with a high level of initiative and the ability to deal with a variety of on-site activities. They must be a logical problem solver who can effectively communicate solutions to crew leaders and tradespeople. This position requires high levels of organization and attention to detail.

KEY TASKS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Supervising and overseeing the overall direction and logistics of the project, ensuring that the Client’s specifications and requirements are met, reviewing ongoing progress, and liaising with in-house quantity surveyors to monitor costs.

• Construction scheduling and programming

• Liaising with the Client and other construction professionals

• Co-ordinating and supervising construction workers and trades

• Selecting tools and materials

• Making safety inspections and ensuring construction and site safety

• Checking and preparing site reports, designs, and drawings

• Maintaining quality control procedures

• Assessing and mitigating risk

• Writing reports and preparing time sheets / records for payroll

• Negotiating contracts and securing permits and licences.

The chosen candidate would become part of the Kvanar team and contribute to the development of the company’s corporate strategy to lead, motivate, and develop the construction operations team as well as develop and maintain relationships with key Clients and other relevant bodies to maximise both personal and company potential.

Salary Range Dependant on Individuals Qualifications and Experience.

PLEASE EMAIL

VACANCIES

MODERN DAY CONSTRUCTION (241-4108)

9 Moonstone Road, Blue Hills, Providenciales

HELPER - $8 hourly Dig trenches, remove refuse, etc.

RIGBY BUILDERS (241-9541)

Five Cays, Providenciales

CARPENTER - $8-12 hourly Formwork, install doors etc.

CHRISTOPHER & REBECCA DAVIES (941-8743)

Leeward, Providenciales

NANNY - $500.00 weekly Care for twins, house chores etc.

CLUB COCONUTS (242-3173)

#26 Aviation Drive, Providenciales

BARTENDER - $8.00 hourly Mix & serve drinks etc.

CHADWIN GRAY (346-3859)

Downtown, Providenciales

41727

DOMESTIC WORKER - $8.00 hourly

General house chores etc.

GOOD QUALITY STORE (231-3450)

#15 Musgrove Cl, Kew Town, Providenciales

CLEANERS - $8.00 HOURLY

clean inside and outside of the store, remove refuse etc.

RODY FRANCOIS (342-2705)

Blue Hills, Providenciales

LABOURER - $8.00 HOURLY

General cleaning, heavy lifting etc.

THELUSMA SAINT LOUIS JR (346-5721)

Five Cays

LABOURER - $8.00 HOURLY

General cleaning, heavy lifting etc.

VISION CONSTRUCTION (242-9155)

Five Cays, Providenciales

LABOURER - $$8 -$9:00 hourly Clean sites, remove refuse, dig trenches etc

NEW & RENEWAL WORK OF PERMITS. BELONGERS TO APPLY

41771

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

B & S TECHNOLOGY

Five Cays Access Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9417939

We are looking for the following:

PRICING CLERK

• Ability to read/interpret documents, Intermediate math skills.

• You are detail-oriented and organized.

• You work well in a fast-paced environment.

• Good communication and listening skills.

• You are process-driven and able to follow procedures in an organized and efficient way.

• Desire to work with customers consistently.

• Adequate knowledge of computer systems, and POS, and comfortable using them.

• Strong attention to detail; Sound judgement /decision-making skills; selfdirected.

SHIPPING AND RECEIVING CLERK

• Will prepare orders for shipment complete all paperwork, obtain the best rate quotes, and ensure accuracy of the order to ship.

• Adequate knowledge of computer systems and comfortable using them.

• Duties include but are not limited to, receiving in, storing, and distributing all deliveries, as well as stocking and restocking items in their proper locations as needed.

• Employees will pick customer orders per pick ticket and ensure the accuracy of selected items and quantities.

• Safety, organizational, and housekeeping responsibilities are encompassed in the position.

REQUIREMENTS:

• College Graduate with a degree in any 4-year Course.

• With at least 5 years of work experience.

• In an 8-hour workday: stand or walk for 6-8 hours.

• Flexible schedule including working nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• A positive attitude. Show up on time.

• Being flexible on what days and hours you can work.

• The willingness to do any job that is needed even if it’s not “technically” part of your job description.

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

Salary: $12.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-431-2975

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE

LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

Cleaning tires, assisting with washing vehicles, etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-3452

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

SALARY: $8.00

Installs pipes and fixtures, installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc.

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 649-344-1567 41723

hour weekly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

REYNOLD CHARLES

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-5109

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

SHANTAL JASMIN

CONTACT: 241-2266

ROBERT ANTHONY JOHNSON

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

CONTACT: 649-241-9388 41706

ROBERT CHRISTOPHER FULFORD

CONTACT: 241-3247

BELONGERS

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-5467

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 243-5512

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-5655

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD Cleaning the house, laundering

4757

SJ’S CURRY CLUB

STEVE MICHEL

Washes dishes and keeps kitchen area clean

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 232-7289

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41754

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: 245-1167

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41748

CONTACT:

Cut lawn using various tools, trim, and edge around areas. Planting flowers, grass, shrubs, and bushes

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-232-4352

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

SPRINKLER

Salary: $10.00

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

Installs pipes and fixtures, installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc.

Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-6772

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Coordinate the scheduled use of resources such as labour, equipment, and materials within budget, safety guidelines and quality standards.

Salary: $500.00 Weekly

CONTACT: 341-3168

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

41606

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

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-345-5113

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensuring all rooms inspected according to standards.

Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-242-4444

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

41605

TACIANNA BIEN-AIME

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-8703

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

41558

TIODEL PIERRE

Five

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-332-6772 OR FRANCISSECRETARIALTCI@GMAIL.COM

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41632

TOWN TAILOR SHOP & FURNITURE

Handfield Cl., Kew Town 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.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 231-7249

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

41549

Fit and study garments to determine required alterations, Sew garments, measure clothing.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-4221

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41602

VADELINE JEAN BAPTISTE

WMW CONSTRUCTION $10 hourly Place blocks, plaster, etc. 354 Blue Hills/ 345-6297

ANNETTE J ELCY

QUENTIN

CONTACT:

Clean tank

Cut grass

CONTACT: 343-4221

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41601

Care for the property, trim down the trees, water plants including soil cultivation digging, forking, take out garbage.

Pay: 8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 343-7987

RENEWAL, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.

41583

Care for my son, supervise while am at work, maintain the house clean, wash dishes, clean dining & living room, wash and iron. Pay: 8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 244-0608 41585

NEW APPLICATION.

BELONGER TO APPLY.

Sweep the house. Mop the floor. Clean bathroom, doors, and windows. Wash & iron. Salary starts at $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 241-4995

RENEWAL, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.

41552

HELPER

Cleaning all areas within the yard, cleaning the gutters, trimming down the trees in the yard, Sweeping and removing debris from outside.

Salary: at $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 342-9699

FIRST TIME, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE.

41584

J AND C CONSTRUCTION

CONTACT:

Salary:

CONTACT: 345-5372

Salary:

CONTACT: 649-231-9835

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 232-2267

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

Service and perform maintenance on boats and other marine crafts.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-5341

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-343-2852

CONTACT: 345-1036

Salary:

CONTACT:

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 347-3520

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0673

BELONGERS

CAICOS

Grace

Salary: $10.00 hourly

SABRINA

Duties:

CONTACT: 244-1837

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

SALARY:

CONTACT: 232-6296

BELONGERS

CONTACT: 342-9647

BELONGERS

CONTACT:

Duties:

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

Salary:

CONTACT: 241-5922

BELONGERS

Responsible for

operated and crewed according to both company and legal guidelines.

Salary: $400.00 Weekly

CONTACT: 245-9125

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 346-0206

BELONGERS

Peel conch, processing of lobster and

Salary: Based on commission

CONTACT: 649-332-3826

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and etc.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 331-0830

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 243-5384

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

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

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 348-7631

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

41684

• Receive items and knows about manage more system and other office position.

• May be required to work six days a week and holidays.

Salary: Commensurate with experience.

CONTACT: 243-1019

BELONGERS APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. RENEWAL

41702

Installs pipes and fixtures, installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc.

Salary:

CONTACT: 244-0065

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

DESIGN BUILD ASSOCIATES

Design Build Associates is a large contracting firm building Custom Residential Villas in Turks and Caicos. Seeking that is a well-rounded, dedicated, honest, reliable, and educated individuals with the following qualifications to join our

REQUIREMENTS

- 10 + years’ experience with various types of builds

- Hold a clean driver’s abstract and police record

- Hard working and task oriented. Able to handle various warranty works and punchlist items.Have a high-quality standard work ethic, able to read Blueprints and maintain high level of quality

DUTIES

- On site repair work for new construction and warranty works

- Install trims and finishing works, some mechanical and drywall/ framing duties.

- Maintaining a high degree of quality in workmanship

Work week is full time Monday to Friday 7 am-5 p m and 7 am-1 2 p m on Saturdays.

Salary $400 -$600 weekly dependent upon level of experience

CONTACT:

BELONGERS

Turks Tour Company www.turkstourcompany.com info@ turkstourcompany.com 649-232-9161

Turtle Cove Marina, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Do you have an outgoing personality, a love of sales and tourism?

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

We are looking for a sales representative to build solid relationships with agents and help group the company. Pay will commensurate with experience $10$18 per hour.

• Must hold a current driver’s license

• Have your own car is an asset

• Answering phones and emails in a professional and efficient manner

• Build relationships with on island concierge

• Greet guests at the marina for departure and return of trips.

• Ensure payment and waivers are collected.

• Complete booking process and payment in our Peek booking system

• Knowledge of Peek software and asset.

• Be able to multi task and have excellent attention to detail.

• Must have clean police record

BOAT CAPTAIN

We are looking for a Boat to run the clear boats for public and private trips. Pay will commensurate with experience $75-$125 per day plus tips.

• Must hold current TCI Captain’s license and STCW

• Knowledge of boat engine and basic maintenance

• Experience in the waters of Turks and Caicos

• Have an outgoing, friendly and professional personality

• Greet guests for your trips and ensure waivers are signed.

• Must have clean police record.

QUALITY CONTROL SUPERVISOR - FT

Applications are invited for a Quality Control Supervisor position at Blue Heron Aviation Ltd dba Atlantic Aviation PLS commencing April 2024. This role would require an immediate start or a short notice period. Closing date for application is Friday 5 April 2024. Please note: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted to attend interviews.

Salary:

Salary:

CONTACT: 245-6668

BELONGERS

JEAN CLAUDE AUGUSTE

341-0275

Blue Hills

HELPER

$8.00

Pick up waste, dispose waste, maintain cleanliness of property and assist with on going construction

ALEX LUMA

443-1195

Millennium highway, (Jack apartments)

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for my 5 months old daughter, feed, care for her and clean my home, wash, cook & iron

TORTILLAS

Rock Plaza, blue Hills

241-2078

KITCHEN HELPER

$8.00

Preparing the workstation for the cook, sorting and distributing ingredients, keeping the kitchen clean

FREDELYN REGIS

South inn, Five Cays

Salary:

CONTACT:

342-9892

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for my 5 years old daughter, bath, feed, dress, and change her diaper, monitor her and create a clean environment for her, wash, cook & clean IRMIDE

341-3716

Blue

$8.00

Pick

$8.00

Cleaning

$8.00

Collect

SUMMARY:

As a member of the operations team, the Quality Control Supervisor is primarily responsible for the oversight as well as execution of all duties related to the facility’s daily quality controls functions. This position will ensure the equipment and personnel that deliver fuel products meet all safety guidelines as outline by the company and appropriate governing agencies.

GENERAL DUTIES WILL INCLUDE:

• Ensure all operations are conducted in accordance with company policies and procedures.

• Maintain high levels of safety and customer service.

• Application of the principles of the “Atlantic Attitude” at all times.

• Communication of work progress and significant issues with the management team.

• Comply with all airport authority rules and regulations including AOA operations and airport security requirements.

• Participate in continuous training including NATA programs and company designed curriculum.

• Perform fuel quality tests on applicable equipment and fuel product in accordance with ATA form 103 guidelines.

• Acceptance and control checks of fuel received into site operated fuel storage system(s).

• Conduct weekly, monthly and yearly maintenance checks and audits.

• Maintain appropriate safety equipment on hand such as cones, ear plugs, reflective vest, etc.

• Function as a Line Service Technician as needed.

SELECTION CRITERIA FOR THIS POSITION:

• Fuel handling experience Required.

• Minimum of at least two (2) years of experience as a Line Service Technician. Required.

• Customer relations skills Required.

• Supervisory experience Preferred.

• Minimum of a high school leaving diploma.

• Good communication skills, both written and oral.

• Computer literacy particularly with the use of Microsoft Office Suite.

• Consistently demonstrated good organizational and leadership skills.

• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and meet company’s insurability requirements.

• Ability to comprehend and perform basic math calculations with minimal errors.

SALARY RANGE:

$32,000 - $42,000 USD commensurate with qualification and experience

Preference for Belongers/PRC Holders/Freelance Work permit Holders Please send your CV for consideration to

The General Manager, travis.handfield@atlanticaviation.com

Closing Date: Friday 5 April 2024

Telephone: +1649 941 8000 / +1649 432 7728

41802

First cow to produce human insulin in its milk created in Brazil

Scientists have created a cow which can produce human insulin in its milk.

The animal is transgenic –meaning DNA from another species, in this case human, was introduced into it through genetic engineering.

The research was led by Matt Wheeler, professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois in the US, who says it takes advantage of the special factors of the mammary gland.

“Mother Nature designed the mammary gland as a factory to make protein really, really efficiently.

“We can take advantage of that system to produce a protein that can help hundreds of millions of people worldwide.”

The research described in a new study in Biotechnology Journal.

According to the World Health Organization, about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce its own insulin, whereas type 2 occurs when the body doesn’t make enough insulin and becomes resistant to it.

The insulin-producing cow is a ‘proof-of-concept’ that could one day be scaled up to produce enough insulin to supply the world’s diabetics, eliminating scarcity and high costs associated with it.

“I could see a future where a

100-head herd, equivalent to a small Illinois or Wisconsin dairy, could produce all the insulin needed for the country. And a larger herd? You could make the whole world’s supply in a year,” Wheeler claims.

Wheeler’s colleagues at the University of São Paulo in Brazil inserted a segment of human DNA coding for proinsulin – the precursor of the active form of insulin – into the cell nuclei of 10 cow embryos. These were implanted in the uteruses of normal

Scientists uncover new secrets to natural appetite control

In a study, just published in Nature Metabolism, scientists from Trinity College Dublin and Princeton and Harvard Medical School share newly uncovered secrets to natural appetite control, which offers promise in the battle against obesity and type-2 diabetes.

The new research shows the diabetes drug Metformin and solid foods elevate a hunger-reducing factor (Lac-Phe) in the body, while sugary drinks have minimal effects.

Obesity is a key driver of type-2 diabetes, and the 2022 Eurostat report revealed that 1 in 5 Irish adults are obese. Indeed,

global diabetes cases have more than tripled in the last 20 years, alongside the rise in obesity. The cost of managing diabetes represents approximately 9% of EU Member States’ health care budgets—totaling €149 billion in 2019.

There is no cure for diabetes, and every year in Europe, 114,000 people lose their lives from diabetes-related complications.

The scientists today report new insights into how the widely used diabetes drug metformin benefits patients with type-2 diabetes. Metformin is described by some

cows, which resulted in the birth of one transgenic cow.

“In the old days, we used to just slam DNA in and hope it got expressed where you wanted it to. We can be much more strategic and targeted these days,” says Wheeler.

“Using a DNA construct specific to mammary tissue means there’s no human insulin circulating in the cow’s blood or other tissues. It also takes advantage of the mammary gland’s capabilities for producing large quantities of protein.”

Attempts at impregnating the cow once she had reached maturity were unsuccessful, so the team stimulated lactation using hormones.

“Our goal was to make proinsulin, purify it out to insulin, and go from there. But the cow basically processed it herself. She makes about three to one biologically active insulin to proinsulin,” Wheeler says.

The insulin and proinsulin were expressed at a few grams per litre of

milk. But because the milk volume was smaller than expected due to the hormone-induced lactation, the researchers can’t say exactly how much insulin would be made in a typical lactation.

Wheeler says the typical unit of insulin equals 0.0347 milligrams and, conservatively, if a cow could make 1 gram of insulin per litre “that means each gram is equivalent to 28,818 units of insulin.”

“And that’s just one litre; Holsteins can produce 50 litres per day. You can do the math,” he says.

The insulin and proinsulin would need to be extracted from the milk and purified for use in humans.

The team now has plans to re-clone the cow and attempt pregnancy and full lactation cycles in the next generation. Eventually, they hope to create transgenic bulls to mate with the females, creating transgenic offspring that can be used to establish a purpose-built herd.

Wheeler says even a small herd could quickly outcompete existing methods — transgenic yeast and bacteria — for producing insulin.

“With regard to mass-producing insulin in milk, you’d need specialised, high-health-status facilities for the cattle, but it’s nothing too out of the ordinary for our well-established dairy industry,” Wheeler says.

“We know what we’re doing with cows.” (CosmosMag)

The new research shows the diabetes drug Metformin and solid foods elevate a hunger-reducing factor (Lac-Phe) in the body

as a “wonder drug” even though we still do not know exactly how it works.

This study shows that metformin increases the amount of an appetite-suppressing factor called

Lactoyl-Phenylalanine (Lac-Phe), identified in 2022 as a natural appetite suppressant and which is known to be raised by vigorous exercise.

The scientists probed data

from other studies involving large numbers of patients to conclusively demonstrate that Lac-Phe levels rise after individuals take metformin.

Matt Wheeler (right) helped develop the first transgenic cow to produce human insulin in her milk (left)

Eight-hour timerestricted eating linked to a 91% higher risk of cardiovascular death

An analysis of over 20,000 US adults found that people who limited their eating across less than 8 hours per day, a time-restricted eating plan, were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease compared to people who ate across 12-16 hours per day, according to preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Scientific Sessions 2024, March 1821, in Chicago. The meeting offers the latest science on populationbased health and wellness and implications for lifestyle.

Time-restricted eating, a type of intermittent fasting, involves limiting the hours for eating to a specific number of hours each day, which may range from a 4- to 12-hour time window in 24 hours. Many people who follow a timerestricted eating diet follow a 16:8 eating schedule, where they eat all their foods in an 8-hour window and fast for the remaining 16 hours each day, the researchers noted. Previous research has found that time-restricted eating improves

several cardiometabolic health measures, such as blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

“Restricting daily eating time to a short period, such as 8 hours per day, has gained popularity in recent years as a way to lose weight and improve heart health,” said senior study author Victor Wenze Zhong, Ph.D., a professor and chair of the department of epidemiology and biostatistics at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in Shanghai, China.

“However, the long-term health effects of time-restricted eating, including risk of death from any cause or cardiovascular disease, are unknown.”

In this study, researchers investigated the potential longterm health impact of following an 8-hour time-restricted eating plan. They reviewed information about dietary patterns for participants in the annual 2003-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) in comparison to data about people who died in the U.S., from 2003 through December

Scientists uncover new secrets to natural ...

CONTINUED 

This work opens a new avenue for developing targeted antiobesity treatments.

Barry Scott, the first author of the research, is a former stock market trader and now a Ph.D. Candidate in Trinity’s School of Biochemistry and Immunology, based in the Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute (TBSI).

He said, “I’m hopeful our research can have a big impact. Metformin is the most prescribed drug for type-2 diabetes, and it’s very safe and well-tolerated. How metformin affects appetite was not known, but this work shows that its influence on Lac-Phe is a key part of its hunger-suppressing impact.”

The team also discovered that Lac-Phe increases after eating and so contributes to the

8-hour time-restricted eating linked to a 91% higher risk of cardiovascular death

2019, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Death Index database.

THE ANALYSIS FOUND:

People who followed a pattern of eating all of their food across less than 8 hours per day had a 91% higher risk of death due to cardiovascular disease.

The increased risk of cardiovascular death was also seen in people living with heart disease or cancer.

Among people with existing cardiovascular disease, an eating duration of no less than 8 but less than 10 hours per day was also associated with a 66% higher risk of death from heart disease or stroke.

Time-restricted eating did not reduce the overall risk of death from any cause.

feeling of fullness after a meal.

David Finlay, Associate Professor in Immunometabolism, Trinity, who co-supervised the work with Professor Lydia Lynch, Princeton and Harvard Medical Schools, said, “Our study shows that the type of food you eat matters. For instance, eating sugar-rich date fruits caused an immediate and large surge in Lac-Phe, for example, whereas drinking a sugar-rich drink did not. This could help explain why liquid calories can drive obesity.”

Professor Lydia Lynch said, “Identifying the factors that control appetite and satiety after a meal is important to help us to understand and ultimately treat the current obesity epidemic. Further understanding LacPhe’s actions may lead to a new class of safe and effective antiobesity drugs.”

An eating duration of more than 16 hours per day was associated with a lower risk of cancer mortality among people with cancer.

“We were surprised to find that people who followed an 8-hour, time-restricted eating schedule were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Even though this type of diet has been popular due to its potential shortterm benefits, our research clearly shows that, compared with a typical eating time range of 1216 hours per day, a shorter eating duration was not associated with living longer,” Zhong said.

“It’s crucial for patients, particularly those with existing heart conditions or cancer, to be aware of the association between an 8-hour eating window and increased risk of cardiovascular death. Our study’s findings encourage a more cautious, personalized approach to dietary recommendations, ensuring that they are aligned with an individual’s health status and the latest scientific evidence,” he

continued. “Although the study identified an association between an 8-hour eating window and cardiovascular death, this does not mean that time-restricted eating caused cardiovascular death.”

Study details and background:

The study included approximately 20,000 adults in the U.S. with an average age of 49 years.

Study participants were followed for a median length of 8 years and maximum length of 17 years.

The study included data for NHANES participants who were at least 20 years old at enrollment, between 2003-2018, and had completed two 24-hour dietary recall questionnaires within the first year of enrollment.

Approximately half of the participants self-identified as men, and half self-identified as women.

73.3% of the participants selfidentified as non-Hispanic white adults, 11% self-identified as Hispanic adults, 8% self-identified as non-Hispanic Black adults and 6.9% of adults self-identified as another racial category, including mixed-race adults and adults of other non-Hispanic races.

The study’s limitations included its reliance on self-reported dietary information, which may be affected by participant’s memory or recall and may not accurately assess typical eating patterns. Factors that may also play a role in health, outside of daily duration of eating and cause of death, were not included in the analysis.

Future research may examine the biological mechanisms that underly the associations between a time-restricted eating schedule and adverse cardiovascular outcomes, and whether these findings are similar for people who live in other parts of the world, the authors noted.

“Overall, this study suggests that time-restricted eating may have short-term benefits but long-term adverse effects. When the study is presented in its entirety, it will be interesting and helpful to learn more of the details of the analysis,” said Christopher D. Gardner, Ph.D., FAHA, the Rehnborg Farquhar Professor of Medicine at Stanford University in Stanford, California, and chair of the writing committee for the Association’s 2023 scientific statement, Popular Dietary Patterns: Alignment with American Heart Association 2021 Dietary Guidance.

“One of those details involves the nutrient quality of the diets typical of the different subsets of participants. Without this information, it cannot be determined if nutrient density might be an alternate explanation to the findings that currently focus on the window of time for eating.

Second, it needs to be emphasized that categorization into the different windows of time-restricted eating was determined on the basis of just two days of dietary intake,” he said.

“It will also be critical to see a comparison of demographics and baseline characteristics across the groups that were classified into the different time-restricted eating windows -- for example, was the group with the shortest time-restricted eating window unique compared to people who followed other eating schedules, in terms of weight, stress, traditional cardiometabolic risk factors or other factors associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes? This additional information will help to better understand the potential independent contribution of the short time-restricted eating pattern reported in this interesting and provocative abstract.” (ScienceDaily.com)

Science & Technology

Scientists say they can cut HIV out of cells

Scientists say they have successfully eliminated HIV from infected cells, using Nobel Prize-winning Crispr gene-editing technology.

Working like scissors, but at the molecular level, it cuts DNA so “bad” bits can be removed or inactivated.

The hope is to ultimately be able to rid the body entirely of the virus, although much more work is needed to check it would be safe and effective.

Existing HIV medicines can stop the virus but not eliminate it.

The University of Amsterdam team, presenting a synopsis, or abstract, of their early findings at a medical conference this week, stress their work remains merely “proof of concept” and will not become a cure for HIV any time soon.

And Dr James Dixon, stem-cell and gene-therapy technologies associate professor at the University of Nottingham, agrees, saying the full findings still require scrutiny.

“Much more work will be needed to demonstrate results in these cell assays can happen in an

Existing HIV medicines can stop the virus but not eliminate it

entire body for a future therapy,” he said.

“There will be much more development needed before this could have impact on those with HIV.”

‘EXTREMELY CHALLENGING’

Ancient lizard-like species discovered in Australia

Scientists have identified a new species of amphibian that occupied Australia some 247 million years ago.

The finding ends a mystery that has captivated researchers since the 90s, when the creature’s fossilised remains were found by a retired chicken farmer in New South Wales.

Less than 10 fossils of the lizardlike species have been identified globally.

Experts say the discovery may “rewrite the evolution of amphibians in Australia”.

It was a broken garden wall at his home in Umina - a roughly 90-minute drive north of Sydney - that led to Mihail Mihaildis’s discovery of the extraordinary fossil, almost three decades ago.

The retired chicken farmer had purchased a 1.6 tonne sandstone slab to fix the problem. But as he sliced through the stone’s outer layers, the immortalised outline

of an unknown creature revealed itself.

Mr Mihaildis contacted the Australian Museum in Sydney about his discovery, and in 1997 he handed the fossil over.

It was there in a climatecontrolled display room that Lachlan Hart - the palaeontologist who would ultimately decode its petrified remains - first encountered it as a child.

“I was obsessed with dinosaurs... and so 12-year-old me saw that fossil on display back in 1997. And then 25 years later it became part of my PhD, which is insane,” Mr Hart says.

Mr Hart says it was “dumb luck” that led to his team, which was studying life in Australia’s Triassic era some 250 million years ago, being given the fossil to identify.

Remarkably, the mould contains a “nearly complete skeleton”, which is almost unheard of, Mr Hart explains.

HIV from all the cells that might harbour it in the body was “extremely challenging”.

“Off-target effects of the treatment, with possible long-term side effects, remain a concern,” he said.

“It therefore seems likely that many years will elapse before any such Crispr-based therapy becomes routine - even assuming that it can be shown to be effective.”

HIV infects and attacks immune-system cells, using their own machinery to make copies of itself.

Even with effective treatment, some go into a resting, or latent, state - so they still contain the DNA, or genetic material, of HIV, even if not actively producing new virus.

Other scientists are also trying to use Crispr against HIV.

And Excision BioTherapeutics says after 48 weeks, three volunteers with HIV have no serious side effects.

But Dr Jonathan Stoye, a virus expert at the Francis Crick Institute, in London, said removing

Most people with HIV need life-long antiretroviral therapy. If they stop taking these drugs, the dormant virus can reawaken and cause problems again.

A rare few have been apparently “cured”, after aggressive cancer therapy wiped out some of their infected cells, but this would never be recommended purely to treat HIV.

People who stay on antiretroviral treatment, which is very effective, can have the same life expectancy as people without HIV, for example.

Richard Angell from the Terrence Higgins Trust said: “While year and years away, today’s research is an important step in the search for an HIV cure. The work needed to transform this technology into a cure for those already living with HIV should be expedited.

“While there’s no cure for HIV yet, it’s vital everyone knows we have incredibly effective HIV treatment. That treatment means people living with HIV can expect to live long and healthy lives. If they take their medication as prescribed, they cannot pass the virus onto their sexual partners. PrEP, a free pill that protects you from HIV, is available for HIV negative people from sexual health clinics across the UK. We have all of the tools necessary to end new HIV cases in the UK by 2030 - and mark the first time a virus was stopped without a vaccine nor cure.” (BBC)

“It’s got the head and the body attached, and the fossilisation of the creature’s skin and fatty tissues around the outside of its bodyall of that makes this a really rare find.”

From that data, Mr Hart and his colleagues estimate the amphibian was approximately 1.5m in length and that it had a salamander-shaped body. The newly identified species has been named Arenaepeton

supinatus, which means “sand creeper on its back” in Latin.

Scientists say the carnivorous amphibian once lived in the freshwater lakes and streams of Sydney. This particular species belongs to the Temnospondyli family: resilient amphibians that survived two of the earth’s five mass extinction events.

Only three other fossils capturing the Temnospondyli

species have been successfully identified in Australia.

The findings, which were published Tuesday, show that “Australia was a great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions,” Mr Hart says. The extraordinary fossil will go on full-time display at the Australian Museum later this year. (BBC)

Artistic recreation of the arenaepeton supinatus

Sports International

Conor McGregor: Irishman

tested twice more than any other UFC fighter this year

Conor McGregor is the most drugtested fighter under the UFC’s new anti-doping regime as the Irishman continues to tease his return to fighting.

McGregor has been drug tested five times, external since January 1. No other fighter has been tested more than twice.

The former UFC champion has spoken at length this week about his desire to return this summer having not fought since 2021.

But the UFC are yet to officially announce his return.

McGregor has been promoting his acting debut in the film Road House this week and has used the tour as an opportunity to appeal to the UFC to officially confirm a fight date.

The 35-year-old is expected to face American Michael Chandler on his return.

McGregor caused a stir when it

emerged he had removed himself from the United States AntiDoping Agency’s (Usada) testing pool following his defeat by Dustin Poirier in 2021.

The Dubliner suffered a broken leg in that fight but he returned to the anti-doping programme last year.

The UFC has since ended their anti-doping partnership with Usada and have now teamed up with Drug Free Sport International.

Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) oversee the anti-doping programme and on Thursday heavyweight Walt Harris, of the USA, became the first UFC athlete to be given a ban in the new era.

Harris has been given a 48-month suspension for two separate anti-doping violations, occurring in July and August last year.

The in-form 23-year-old has 10 goals and seven assists in all competitions for Newcastle this season England v Brazil: Gordon says playing for Scotland over England was ‘never a thought’

Newcastle forward Anthony Gordon says playing for Scotland was “never a thought” after receiving his first call-up to the senior England squad.

The in-form 23-year-old has 10 goals and seven assists in all competitions for Newcastle this season.

Scotland had been interested in securing his services as he qualified to play via his grandparents.

Reports suggested they would move for Gordon when he missed out on the last England squad.

Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate said Gordon was “very close” to being selected at that time.

“It was never a thought for methat’s no disrespect to Scotland at all,” said Gordon.

“I’ve been tunnel vision on playing for England since I was five, six years old and nothing

could ever shake that off. I would never forgive myself if I didn’t get to this point.

“It’s been a dream I’ve had since I was so young and nothing else has ever entered my mind.”

England have a lot of depth in the attacking areas of the pitch and Gordon will be competing for a spot with Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford, Cole Palmer and Jarrod Bowen.

However, Gordon, who won the European Under-21 Championship last summer with England, thinks his call-up has come at the right time for him to break into Southgate’s side before this summer’s European Championship in Germany.

“I don’t think I have ever been as consistent in my career so far,” he added.

“If you aren’t doing that, you aren’t going to get into this team.

I’m quite thankful for that as I get to show a great account of myself now.

“Maybe if I’d come in earlier it would have been a bit too early. It’s all in good time.

“From the outside trying to break into it, you know you have to be really consistent and on your best form to even get near the squad because of the level that’s around me in my positions.

“I’ve been able to do that this year. Now I’m just relishing it and I get to train and stuff, and the standard is so high and I’m learning from the best players in the country.”

England take on Brazil at Wembley on Saturday before hosting Belgium on Tuesday. The matches are the last time Southgate works with his players before he names his training squad in May for the Euros. (BBC)

Robinho: Ex-Brazil star told to serve nine-year rape sentence

Former Manchester City and Real Madrid forward Robinho must serve a nine-year rape sentence in his home country of Brazil, a court has ruled.

Robinho, 40, was found guilty by an Italian court in 2017 of taking part in the 2013 gang rape of a 22-year-old Albanian woman.

He has been living in Brazil, which does not extradite its nationals.

Judges in Brasilia ruled on Wednesday that he should serve his sentence in Brazil following a request from Italy.

He will remain free pending a possible appeal against the ruling, lawyers said.

The former Brazil international, who has 100 caps for his country, was playing for AC Milan at the time of the crime.

After being found guilty he lost

an appeal in 2020 before Italy’s highest court upheld his sentence in 2022.

Italian prosecutors then issued an international arrest warrant for him.

The footballer, who spent two years with Manchester City, told a Brazilian network on Sunday that the sex had been “consensual”.

Robinho won two La Liga titles in four seasons at Real Madrid, before joining City for a thenBritish record fee of £32.5m on transfer deadline day in September 2008 - also Sheikh Mansour’s first day as owner of the Premier League club.

After two seasons he joined AC Milan, where he spent the next five years before moving to Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande and returning to Brazil with Atletico Mineiro. (BBC)

Conor McGregor is expected to fight lightweight contender Michael Chandler on his return

Robinho was playing in Italy for AC Milan at the time of the offence

Sports International

Hamilton says F1 hard to trust with no accountability in the sport

Lewis Hamilton says there is “no transparency and no accountability” in Formula 1 as the sport continues to be rocked by offtrack wrangles.

The seven-time champion appeared to conflate controversies involving governing body the FIA and the behaviour of Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.

Speaking before this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton said: “With the FIA, things happening behind closed doors, there is no accountability and the fans need that.”

He added: “How can you trust the sport and what is happening here if you don’t have that?”

Hamilton praised F1 Academy director Susie Wolff for taking legal action against the FIA following its controversial conflict of interest inquiry into her last year.

Wolff announced her legal case, which is believed to be one of defamation against a number of senior figures within the FIA, on the same day as the organisation’s ethics committee cleared its

president of claims he interfered with races in Saudi Arabia and Las Vegas last year.

Asked whether Mohammed Ben Sulayem still had Hamilton’s confidence as FIA president, Hamilton said: “(He) never has.”

The Mercedes driver added: “I am incredibly proud of Susie. She is so brave and she stands for such great values and she is such a leader.

“In a world where often people are silenced, for her to be standing up sends such a great message, and I love that she has taken it out of this world and is fighting it from the outside.

“So hopefully, this stand she is taking now will create change and have a positive impact. And especially for women.”

In continuing his remarks, he appeared to reference the controversy surrounding Horner, who was accused of inappropriate behaviour by a female colleague.

Horner, 50, has always denied the claims. Red Bull dismissed the complaint after an internal

investigation and have since suspended the employee who made them. She has appealed against Red Bull’s decision to dismiss her complaint.

BBC Sport has previously reported that the reason given by Red Bull to the employee for her suspension was that she had been dishonest.

Hamilton added: “It is still a male-dominated sport. And we are living in a time where the message is: ‘If you file a complaint, you will be fired.’ And that is a terrible narrative to be projecting to the world, especially when we’re talking about inclusivity.

“We need to make sure we are

staying true to the core values.”

Ben Sulayem was accused by a whistleblower of demanding the overturning of a penalty to Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso in Saudi Arabia last year, and of asking his officials not to pass the Las Vegas track fit for racing.

A report by the FIA’s compliance officer contained claims by an eyewitness who was a senior FIA official that both things had happened.

But on Wednesday, the FIA announced that after interviewing 11 witnesses, its ethics committee had cleared Ben Sulayem “of any wrongdoing”.

Hamilton’s team-mate George

Russell, a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, said: “You trust that the leaders in the sport have its best interest at heart rather than their own best interests, and that goes back to the transparency thing.

“If things are transparent and we see the outcome of these cases, we all have a chance to judge for ourselves with all the facts and figures.

“But when we don’t have the facts and figures and there is no transparency, you always think there is something being hidden. That’s why I think it is so important for the sport to send the right message.” (BBC)

Dani Alves: Ex-Brazil player to be freed on €1m bail after rape conviction

A Spanish court has ruled that exBarcelona and Brazil footballer Dani Alves can be conditionally released from jail after serving about a quarter of his sentence for rape.

Alves, who was sentenced to four and a half years in prison last month, will be released on a €1m (£853,000) bail.

He had been held in pre-trial detention since January 2023.

The 40-year-old was found guilty of raping a woman in a Barcelona nightclub in December 2022.

The victim’s lawyer called the decision “a scandal”.

The conditions for his release include turning over both his Brazilian and Spanish passports so he cannot leave Spain.

He must also appear before the court on a weekly basis.

The court additionally imposed a restraining order, preventing him from approaching the victim.

The ruling came a day after Alves’

Dani Alves was first arrested in January 2023 and has been detained since

lawyer requested his release on the grounds that he had already served a quarter of his sentence in pre-trial detention following his arrest.

The decision, which was not unanimous due to a dissenting vote from one of the judges, can still be appealed.

The victim’s lawyer, Ester

Garcia, said: “To me, it’s a scandal that they let a person who they know can get a million euros in no time walk free.”

Ms Garcia told RAC1 radio she was “outraged and dissatisfied” with the ruling, adding it was “a justice (system) for the rich” and that she would lodge an appeal.

Lawyers for Alves have not yet commented.

During last month’s trial, prosecutors said Alves and his friend had bought champagne for three young women before Alves lured one of them to a VIP area of the nightclub with a toilet which she had no knowledge of.

They argued that it was at this point he turned violent, forcing the woman to have sex despite her repeated requests to leave.

Alves had maintained she could have left “if she wanted to”. However, the court found that she did not consent.

Spanish law was changed recently to enshrine the importance of consent under the so-called “Only Yes is Yes” principle.

In a statement, the court said there was evidence other than the victim’s testimony that proved that she had been raped.

It said Alves had “abruptly grabbed the complainant” and thrown her to the ground. He had

then raped her while preventing her from moving as “the complainant said no and wanted to leave”, it added.

The woman said the rape had caused her “anguish and terror”, and one of her friends who was with her on the night described how the 23-year-old had cried “uncontrollably” after leaving the bathroom.

Alves changed his testimony on a number of occasions.

He first denied knowing his accuser only to claim later that he had met her in the toilet but that nothing had happened between them.

He then changed his version of events again, saying that they had had consensual sex. “We were both enjoying ourselves,” he alleged.

Alves played more than 400 times for Barcelona, winning six league titles and three Champions Leagues across two spells with the club. He was also part of Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad. (BBC)

Lewis Hamilton will move to Ferrari next season

Sports International

Jayson

NBA: Boston Celtics hold off late comeback to beat Milwaukee Bucks

Jayson Tatum scored 31 points as the Boston Celtics held off a comeback from the Milwaukee Bucks to win 122-119.

The Celtics powered to a 21-point lead late in the third quarter after Milwaukee had closed the gap to five just after half-time.

But the Bucks outscored Boston 36-21 in the final period to set up a nervy ending.

“It was ugly. We didn’t play the way we wanted to in the fourth quarter and they went on a run,” Tatum said.

“No lead is safe in the NBA. But a win is a win and we’ll take it.”

Boston, who are top of the

Eastern Conference, have now won seven consecutive games and have a record of 55-14, 11 wins clear of the Bucks in second.

Milwaukee were without star player Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard scored 32 points while Bobby Portis added 24 in his absence.

Meanwhile, the Miami Heat beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 107-104 and the Sacramento Kings eased past the Toronto Raptors 123-89.

The Indiana Pacers swept past the Detroit Pistons 122-103 and Western Conference leaders Oklahoma City breezed past the Utah Jazz119-107. (BBC)

Women’s Six Nations 2024: Marlie Packer to win 100th cap in England’s opener against Italy

Captain Marlie Packer will win her 100th cap in England’s opening game of the Women’s Six Nations against Italy on Sunday.

The 34-year-old flanker debuted for the Red Roses in 2008 and becomes the seventh woman to reach the milestone.

Fly-half Zoe Harrison, centre Emily Scarratt and lock Abbie Ward all return to the starting XV.

The trio have not played for England since the World Cup final defeat by New Zealand in 2022.

Loughborough Lightning’s Scarratt starts in the unfamiliar role of inside centre despite spending the majority of her 108cap international career at 13.

Scarratt played at inside centre for Lightning last month following her return from a 13-month injury lay-off with a neck injury which required surgery.

Bristol Bears’ Ward returns to international rugby for the first time after the birth of her daughter last year, with Saracens’ Harrison recovering from her lengthy ACL injury in time for the Six Nations.

The Red Roses won a Six Nations Grand Slam last year and are aiming to win their sixth Six Nations title in a row.

“Talking to Marlie about her journey, she has had to overcome adversity since her Test debut in 2008,” Red Roses head coach John Mitchell said.

“What has been evident since I first met her is her determination to succeed has been ingrained in her over the past 16 years, helping her achieve she has in the game.

“She epitomises what it is to be a Red Rose.”

Flanker Sadia Kabeya and scrum-half Lucy Packer are also

named in the starting XV after missing the inaugural WXV1 tournament in New Zealand, which England won in November to partially avenge their World Cup final defeat.

Exeter Chiefs back rower Maddie Feaunati, 21, could make her Red Roses debut after being named on the bench.

“We are excited to get going in what is an awesome tournament,” Mitchell added “Italy is our first opportunity to put into practice what we are aiming to achieve.”

LINE-UP

England: Kildunne; Dow, Rowland, Scarratt, Breach; Harrison, Packer; Botterman, Atkin-Davies, Clifford, Aldcroft, Ward, Kabeya, Packer, Beckett. (BBC)

British sprinter Ohuruogu cleared of anti-doping violation for prohibited association

British sprinter Victoria Ohuruogu has been cleared of an anti-doping rule violation concerning alleged prohibited association with a banned athlete.

It had been alleged the 31-yearold was being coached by her boyfriend Antonio Infantino, who is serving a three-year doping ban. But this was dismissed by a UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) panel.

British 400m champion Ohuruogu said the allegation had cost her “a great deal” and disrupted her Olympic preparations.

“I can confirm that an independent panel has emphatically dismissed the charge of prohibited association against me, finding that it was ‘not satisfied, let alone comfortably satisfied’ that I have broken any rules,” said Ohuruogu,

Two-time British champion Victoria Ohuruogu won Commonwealth Games 400m silver in Birmingham in 2022

who has had her UK Sport funding reinstated and will aim to qualify for Paris 2024.

“I take my anti-doping obligations extremely seriously and am pleased that the truth of the

matter - which is exactly as I have always maintained - has now been confirmed.”

UKAD said in a statement the outcome of the hearing, held before the independent National AntiDoping Panel (NADP), would not ordinarily be disclosed, but it had done so at Ohuruogu’s request.

Her long-term boyfriend Infantino, who formerly represented GB but competed for Italy at the Tokyo Olympics, is banned until December 2024 following his failed doping test.

Ohuruogu was investigated after being photographed training alongside Infantino by reporter for The Times, external. Anti-doping rules state athletes must not work in a professional or sport-related capacity with coaches or other

athlete support personnel currently serving an anti-doping ban.

The Commonwealth Games silver medallist also helped the British team to 4x400m relay bronze at both the World and European Championships in 2022, but she was left out of GB’s quartet at the 2023 Worlds in Budapest last summer with the investigation ongoing.

Nicole Yeargin, Laviai Nielsen, Amber Anning and Ama Pipi made the relay podium, clinching bronze, while Ohuruogu missed out on the individual 400m final.

When British sprinter CJ Ujah was banned for 22 months following a positive test for two prohibited substances at the Tokyo Olympics, the entire British team was stripped of its men’s 4x100m silver medals.

Tatum scored 31 points for the Boston Celtics

Marlie Packer debuted for the Red Roses in 2008

Sports National

Ona Glinton Primary dominate InterPrimary Track and Field Championships

TCAAA names 20 athletes for CARIFTA Games

The Turks and Caicos Islands Amateur Athletic Association has named 20 athletes, several of whom are in schools in Jamaica, for the 2024 CARIFTA Games, which is scheduled for the Kirani James Athletic Stadium from March 30th to April 1st in St George, Grenada.

The Walkin brothers, Antwon and Rayvon, who are both attending

Kingston College are expected to lead the U20 Boys Division, which also includes the likes of Bernard Hyde (Quality Athletics), Xavier Joseph (HJRHS), Renaldo Registre (RGHS), Kyle Belazaire (MBHS) and Melique Evans (CHHS).

There are three dominant U20 girls: Roniesha Joseph (Excelsior High School, Jamaica) and Tanesia

Gardiner (Edwin Allen High School, Jamaica) and Irener Moline (MBHS).

The U17 division includes the likes of Rayvon Black (Denbigh High School in Jamaica), who advanced to the final of the Class 3 Boys 400m at the ISSA Boys and Girls Championships in Jamaica this week with a time of 50.76s.

He was expected to compete in

the finals on Thursday night.

The other U17 Boys are overall champion boy at Inter-High, Love Joseph (CHHS), Ali Eliasu (ALGTHS), Shagarion Mills (WMHS) and Deans Saints Hilaire.

The U17 Girls are Krysanne Williams (CHHS), Chloe Jennings (WMHS), Tanaire Gardiner (ALGTHS/Quality Athletics),

Eunice Missick (ALGTHS) and Kelandy King (ALGTHS).

The Head Coach of the side is Randy Ford, with Courtney Missick as his assistant.

The Team Manager/ Chaperone is Rosalie Ingham-Hall.

Other travelling officials are TCAAA President Edith Skippings, Nekoda Fulford and Owen Roberts.

Ona Glinton Primary School won the InterPrimary Track and Field Championships title this week at the National Stadium in Providenciales.

The ace-primary school athletes have dominated the primary school event over the years. During this week’s competition, they amassed 368 points.

Second place went to Enid Capron Primary School with 211 points, with Oseta Jolly Primary placing third on 194 points.

Ianthe Pratt Primary finished fourth with 166 points and Irish Stubbs Primary with 155.

Ona Glinton are three-time Inter-Primary School Track and Field champions

Rayvon Black won his 400m heat with a time of 50.76s this week at Champs

Roniesha Joseph

Melique Evans will compete in the U20 division

Sports National

Islanders, Panthers and Flyers win PHL Da Conch Shack titles

The GBCR Islanders, the Temple Financial Panthers and the Waratah Flyers were crowned champions of the Da Conch Shack’s Provo Hockey League (PHL) when the finals took place at the Graceway Sports Centre on Saturday last.

The Islanders and Flyers registered easy victories, while the Panthers withheld a second-period surge from the TMW Lightning to register a 4-3 win.

The dominant Bantam Division side, the Panthers, looked solid all season and in the first period of the final, it looked like it was going to be another easy victory, Owen Barkworth Knight scored twice and made an assist to Liana Bonrud, who converted for the 3-0 lead, but in the second period, the Lightning regrouped.

Adrien Penn opened the scoring in the fourth minute while Kale Luker added a second less than two minutes later. Knight then fired in his third to give the Panthers a twogoal cushion at 8:26.

Penn scored again at 10:08, but that was as far as the Lightning would get.

Third place went to Parrot Cay Canucks, who defeated Tibor’s Sharks 4-3.

Felix Arnth Jensen led the Canucks with three goals, while Ryan King added a goal and an assist.

The Sharks were led by Emeric

Gula with two goals and an assist and Lucas Emery with a goal and an assist.

Earlier, in the Novice Division, the Islanders made relatively light work of the Saunders and Co Greyhounds with a 10-4 victory.

Nicholas Comert led the attack with an impressive seven goals, four of which were scored in the opening period.

Support came from Tejas Gururaja, who opened the scoring with two goals and Walter Stipa who scored the other.

The Greyhounds were led by Yash Ochani who scored twice and Dylan Garland and Wyatt King, who added one each.

The day’s action commenced with the Projetech Pirates winning the third-place Novice battle, 5-2, against the Design Studio Jets.

Lennox Losinske led the Pirates with three goals, while Harvey Arthur added a brace. The Jets’ goals were scored by Tyler Wake Forbes and Asher Soderquist.

The 2023-2024 league concluded with the Junior Division final between the Flyers and Canadiens.

The Flyers opened the scoring at 1:20 in the first period, off the stick of Aiden Doherty, but the Canadiens answered via a goal from Liam Redstone and then they went ahead less than two minutes later with Jacob Been finding the

back of the net.

It was not until 13:20 that Cj Moriarty drew the game even,

before the Flyers dominated the second period with four unanswered goals for a 6-2 win.

The GBCR Islanders won the Novice Division title

The Temple Financial Panthers won the Bantam Division title

The Waratah Flyers won the Junior Division title

Nicholas Comert led the Islanders with seven goals

Doherty finished with a hattrick, Moriarty with two goals and Rishith Gururaja with the other.