VOLUME 10 ISSUE 46

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

Website: www.suntci.com

VOLUME 10 - NO. 46

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LIE DETECTORS IN USE AT BEACHES

By Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

PHOTO By: Vivian Tyson

E

mployees at Beaches Resort and Spa in the Turks and Caicos Islands are outraged by the hotel’s decision to start asking staff to take lie detector tests.

While hotel officials are saying that these tests are not mandatory, employees fear that they could lose their jobs if they refuse to subject themselves to this new policy.

In fact, the SUN understands that some employees of Beaches which is owned by Jamaican hotelier Gordon “Butch” Stewart, are even considering taking the matter to the law courts to determine if taking these lie detector tests violates their constitutional rights.

“It’s like you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t,” an employee told the SUN, while asking that their name not be published out of fear of retribution. “Who wants to say no if Sandals and Beaches tell you they want you to take a lie detector test? The bosses may tell you it’s not compulsory but then you just don’t know what will happen if you refuse. Trust me, a lot of team members are very concerned and unhappy about this.”

In an exclusive interview with the SUN, Stephen Hector, the Global Public Relations Director for Sandals Resorts International (SRI), the parent company of Beaches Resort, confirmed that the lie detectors are being introduced.

Hector stated: “As the world continues to evolve and the use of technology increases, Sandals Resorts International has introduced routine polygraph testing in a small number of departments at Beaches Turks and Caicos as part of a group-wide initiative.

At Sandals Resorts International, we pride ourselves on offering our guests the very best experience imaginable and, in order to achieve that, we continue to explore new, advanced technologies and systems which

TOURISTS GETTING DOWN TO THE JUNKANOO BEAT: The mega-popular

Thursday Fish Fry, staged at the Bight Park in Providenciales, attracts scores of tourists each week. The visitors who flock the event to experience the local culture and food are often not mere spectators but participants as well. At the latest event this past Thursday, the visitors were thrilled to get down to the Junkanoo beat. Not only did they dance and have fun, but also ensured that they collected keepsakes by way of photographing themselves with band. In this photo, a few tourists matching in strides dancers from the local Junkanoo group.

many of which can contain highly sensitive intellectual property as well as confidential guest and employee data. The unauthorized transmission of such information is illegal in most countries throughout the world and can lead to identity theft, lost revenue and other fraudulent activity.”

Hector denied widespread reports that the introduction of the lie detector tests at Beaches, which employs in

excess of 1400 people, had anything to do with alleged theft of money or classified information from guests.

He added: “In addition to providing a first class vacation for guests and comfortable workplace for our employees, we similarly have a great responsibility to protect their information and that of our company in order to safeguard our guests, team members, their livelihoods and

Green tips to save you some Green — Leaving your refrigerator door open causes the motor to run more in order to re-cool your food.

The motor also gives off heat while working which can make your whole household hotter.

www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 | P.O. Box 132 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

reputations of the destinations in which we operate such as the Turks and Caicos. The ongoing use of polygraph testing as a proactive deterrent for such activity has become common within workplaces throughout the world, particularly in industries where the handling of valuable financial information is required.”

Continued on Page 7

Wilkie Arthur wins case Page 12

Premier defends need for luxury vehicle - Page 2

Car knocks down female pensioner Page 9

Wife of Integrity Commissioner Investigator charged - Page 7

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LOCAL NEWS

Lie Detectors in use at Beaches

Continued from Page 1

Furthermore, Hector said, Beaches is “mindful of the rules governing fraud and corruption in particular the implications for corporations and individuals who undertake or facilitate such practices”.

He added: “Several major international corporations have also fallen victim to data breaches in recent months further underlining the importance of proactive and thorough protection policies. Only this past week a US entertainment giant was

the victim of a large-scale data breach that is expected to cost the company millions of dollars.”

Beaches, which is the largest hotel property and private sector employer in the country, has 775 keys equating to over 1,000 rooms, mainly suites.

It has one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and the third-rated barrier reef for scuba diving in the world. The hotel also boasts the largest water park in the Caribbean and its

21restaurants are more than any resort in the Caribbean.

Based on recent figures, Beaches paid some US$600,000 a month in accommodation taxes. The resort’s electricity bill topped US$700,000 a month as the biggest customer of the light and power company here.

Its wage bill is in the region of a staggering US$30 million. The Providenciales International Airport collects over US$19 million from arriving Beaches guests numbering

around 600,000 a year and Beaches is responsible for nearly half of the airlift into the country.

Taxi operators make nearly US$2million a year from 22,000 trips moving guests back and forth from the hotel.

Analysts place Beaches direct contribution to the economy somewhere in the region of US$60 million a year, not counting resources spent on charitable causes through the Sandals Foundation.

Premier defends need for luxury vehicle

By Vivian Tyson Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing is defending his need for a luxury vehicle, saying that a lot of people in the Turks and Caicos Islands are satisfied with His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham travelling in a Land Rover, but want him as Premier to be driving around in a sub-standard vehicle.

The Premier was responding to media questions about the delay in his office receiving the Chevy Suburban SUV that has been ordered but is still on the lot because of bureaucrats in government said he Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing must lease it instead of buying it.

“There is hypocrisy, but there are some of our makes it difficult to change. people that love that hypocrisy. Some of our people “Persons are going by the law, and this is have no problem with the Governor driving a Land where it gets frustrating where you have a law that Rover, but it is not good enough for the Premier of the you cannot do something by, but yet still you have a Turks and Caicos. And that is a sad state of affairs,” law that is very difficult for you to change because the Premier said. of the intermediaries like Integrity Commission, The Premier argued that some of the very which has to draft a report that will have to be used persons who do not want to see him driving a high- to influence the law, and that is specific reference to end vehicle in the TCI, would disclaim him if he were do with anything dealing with House of Assembly to turn up in a yellow taxi at an overseas event, while members, be it salaries, allowances, be it ministers’ other leaders arrive in high class vehicles. vehicles. Whatever they are they have to be drafted “If I was a Premier, and you visited some other by the Integrity Commission,” Premier Ewing said. country to a delegation, and you are a part of that Responding to the question of when he reception, and all of the other countries’ leaders thought the Suburban could be on the road, the pulled up, let’s say, in a Mercedes class, and I pulled Premier responded: “I don’t know.” up in a yellow taxi with a plate on the top, the first He highlighted that he would not be the first thing you would do is disown me as your Premier to drive a Suburban, since some of his predecessors from Turks and Caicos. You would do that overseas, moved around in such vehicles. but in Turks and Caicos you don’t think that should “I have heard the noise in the market from be the state of affairs,” the Premier added. a lot of people about vehicles, and what would have Premier Ewing said that the Chief Financial been driven, and the debate as to whether or not the Officer (CFO) is not to be blamed for the hold-up of Premier should drive a vehicle of (the calibre of) a the vehicle, since he is operating within the ambit of Suburban or not. We had two Suburbans before I the law, which he said was crafted in a fashion that became Premier, that were driven by the previous

administrations. We have the Governor driving Land Rovers. This is about the office of the Premier, it is not about me. I can go back to my own car any day. It is about the image of the Premier. It doesn’t matter who is in the office, it is about the office,” he asserted.

Premier Ewing pointed out also that since the Turks and Caicos Islands prides itself on being a high-end destination, when investors turn up to do business, they do not want to see the leader of the country being transported in a slapdash vehicle, but one that represents the office and country.

“If you are going to be a country that says you are a high-end destination, your country, who investors come in to look up to; when they see the Premier driving something that is not worthy of a country that they say is high-end, then already you don’t have any confidence in the country’s ability to run my affairs and to run my money. And so, it is about the office,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, the Premier is calling for a change in the ordinance that deals with procurement of government vehicles, since he said the present one is not helping the cause.

He added: “The ordinance as it is needs to be changed. It is not about us saying you can purchase one way or the other; it is about government having the option to get value for money in whatever you purchase. That should be the underlying principle, not that you can’t purchase or you can’t lease. It should be you keeping your options open for purchase or lease as long as you get value for money – that should be the principle. So the ordinance would need to be changed to reflect that. That change has to come through the Integrity Commission who developed the reports and for the House to affect those particular changes.”

Integrity Commission investigator’s wife charged with airport security breach Philippa Lake, wife of Simon Baker, the Integrity Commission’s Investigating Officer, is to return to the Grand Turk Magistrate’s Court on December 16, 2014, to answer to a charge of breach of security relating an incident at the JAGS McCartney International Airport recently.

Lake made her first court appearance last week, Wednesday (November, 26, 2014), and The SUN understands that additional charges are to be brought against her when she returns to court.

It was reported that Lake was seen by security personnel on the tarmac of the airport, where she had allegedly gone to retrieve items off a flight. The security personnel approached her Lake and informed her that she was in a zone

off limits to the public and requested her to remove from the area. However, she allegedly objected to the request.

When the security insisted that she remove from the location, it was reported that Lake went off of a tirade, using a number of choice worlds, before blurting out that a bomb was on the plane. She was subsequently arrested and later charged with breaching airport security.

When she went to court, prosecution, led by Deputy Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Latisha Williams, informed the defense that additional charges were to be laid against her at a later date. And after discussion, the two parties agreed to have all the charges brought against her at the same Photo of Philippa Lake and Simon Baker courtesy of Facebook time, to which the court also agreed.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

PNP government is A dismal failure, Says Opposition Leader

Members of the Opposition PDM display the awards of which they said the government is deserving Two years after being elected, going upwards of 6 months without ink, the Progressive National Party (PNP) no vehicles, broken down buildings and Government in the Turks and Caicos no raise.”

Islands, headed by Premier Hon. Dr. The PDM Leader said the Rufus Ewing has been described as Rufus Ewing led PNP Government nothing but a “dismal failure”. appears to have an overarching policy That assessment came from Leader of not speaking to or with its people and of the Opposition People’s Democratic being indifferent to their concerns and Movement (PDM) Hon. Sharlene cries. This, she said, is clearly evident Cartwright-Robinson during a media as they continue to appear on safe conference at the party’s headquarters shows, ignore questions, try to absent in Downtown, Providenciales, on themselves in Press Conferences Monday, December 1st, 2014. and refuse to consult on major lifeShe said: “Two years ago, the changing and country-altering laws Turks and Caicos Islands was excited such as the time change, the increase to see a return to elected Government in storey levels for buildings and the – our very own Elected Government. Immigration Bill.

Having lived through a period where Hon. Cartwright-Robinson added: the Administrators wanted the “What has changed in 2 years? We are power but not the care. Little did we now neglected by our very own elected all know that there would be much Government. Ask yourselves: Am I of the same. Two years later, there any better off today than I was before has been no real change for the my very own elected Government? people of this country. They are still What has changed? Things have hurting, hungry, unemployed, battling progressively gotten worse. Yet the with a broken healthcare system, Premier a few days ago, literally patted homeowners are seeing more and more themselves on the back as to the great foreclosures, youth – our future is left job that his Government is doing and wandering around unemployed and as recent as Friday during a News underemployed wondering where and Telecast said that the economy is good if they fit in this country’s design, civil for the Government. What about the servants are forced under its former people? champion to work with little to nothing The economy is healthy having often to bear attacks from the he says. His Minister of Finance says very same Government that does that we have an operating surplus of not give them the resources – critical $40 million dollars. Yet there is severe revenue generating departments are shortage of critical resources in the

Public Service: Critical positions remain vacant, the Civil Service Pay and Regrading Exercise completed since February 2013 remains unfunded, the Clinics remain without medication and supplies, departments remain without vehicles, offices without paper and ink, work permits (treated as a revenue generator) are still being given while our people remain unemployed. Yet we hear the PNP Government boast about a surplus and a huge surplus without the payroll tax and without VAT.” The Opposition Leader said the PNP Government has in a very short period become a dismal failure and the cries of what a dismal failure this Government has been has been coming from all quarters including high ranking officers in their very own camp.

She continued: “One (PNP) lamented that this Premier is a one termer while another in an impassionate plea for attention to healthcare said that this country could not take another two years of this PNP Government. And we agree. The people of this country are feeling the failure every day and because of the acute failure of this Government, they are calling on the Opposition to do more and govern. The PNP did inherit a broke country from itself. It did inherit a people broken in spirit and hope. They have on the hard working backs of our people taxed them into a deeper state of hopelessness

and weaker spirits. On the heel of the closure of TCI Bank, many of the same persons are fearful of losing their lifelong investments in British Atlantic Financial Services, many persons continue to be taken advantage of on jobs where the Labour Department and Government appear powerless and/or compromised, minimum wage is yet to become a living wage, the Government’s tax strategy has caused the cost of living to sky rocket and the dollar has lost purchasing power.

They have not help the people of these Islands. In fact, they have made matters worse.”

The PDM Leader reminded the media more people voted for the PDM (50.13%) than the PNP (44.87%), the PDM enjoyed wider margins of victory, won more national seats and secured the top spot in the All Island Constituency.

“Nonetheless in a twist of fate, the PNP won 8 and of the 15 seats with smaller margins of victory and became the Government,” she said. “These close results demonstrated a divided people but signaled for a mature elected Body, the need to work together. Under my leadership we tried to do just that. Over and over the olive branch was extended and the request was made to allow us to help. The place that TCI had found itself in required a different style of governance, one that was more mature and more patriotic and nationalistic.”

Members of TCIG Trained

by Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA)

Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health employees display their certificates optained following their Caribbean Public Health Agency training.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government, Ministry of Health was represented at a workshop sponsored by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) which was geared at bolstering the Region’s preparedness for Ebola and other high

risk threats by strengthening of capabilities of Caribbean Member States to manage possible outbreak situations.

The “Infectious Shipping Training” (November 17-19, 2014) focused on categorization, packaging and shipping of infectious substances. Successful

participants received certification for a period of two years to package and ship Category A, infectious substances.

The training was done in accordance with The World Health Organization (WHO) Guidance on regulations for the Transport of Infectious Substances 2013-2014.

The purpose of the workshop was to remind laboratories of the procedures that they should follow at all times when handling samples.

The participants learnt how to handle infectious substances safely and work in a safe laboratory by mitigating the risk.

Mr. Andrico Garland, Medical Technologist TCI Hospitalstated; “I was privileged to have been among 13 participants from 12 Caribbean countries. I am now an IATA certified

Category A Professional and prepared to continue my contribution to TCIG” Hon. Porsha Stubbs-Smith, Minister of Health & Human Services acknowledged; “The Turks and Caicos Islands now have 4 Medical Technologists Certified as Category A Professionals.

These 4 Medical Technologists are the only persons trained to handle and package infectious substances such as Ebola specimens.

“In addition to being trained and certified, the participants who have been trained at this workshop will become trainers in their respective institutions and countries. This is another example of the Governments commitent to strengthen its internal resources by utilizing all opportunites to do so.”

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS Athenee Harvey, and Derek Dean corruption cases resume next year The Sufficiency Hearing for Athenee Harvey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, charged with breaching the Integrity Commission Ordinance is set for January 5, 2015, while Road Safety Officer Dereck Dean’s trial is set for next summer.

Harvey, who is represented by attorney Jahmal Misick, appeared in the Grand Turk Magistrate’s Court on December 1, 2014, where she was arraigned for attempting to skip import duty payment on a number of bags laden with merchandise, from a cruise ship that docked in the country’s capital in August this year.

In the Harvey matter, Director of the Integrity Commission, Eugene Otuoyne QC, said in a November 3, 2014 news release that after a

meticulous investigation, the Commission decided to arrest and subsequently charged the PS with two offences of corruption contrary to section 44 of the Integrity Commission Ordinance.

She was granted $2,000 station bond.

Harvey, on November 3, 2014, issued a news release through her lawyer Jahmal Misick of Misick and Stanbrook, claiming her innocence and maintaining that the charges against her were without merit and that she was confident of vindication.

As a result of the charges against her, Harvey was suspended pending the outcome of the case.

Meanwhile, Dean’s trial should have started on December 1 in the Supreme Court before Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale, but the court has

rescheduled the trial for August 17 to 28, 2015.

The Integrity Commission announced on June 17, 2014, that it charged Dean with eight counts of corruption offenses contrary to Section 44 of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. Dean was granted bail on his own accord in the sum of $5,000 with one surety.

He is being represented by attorney Glenda Clarke.

When Dean first appeared before the Magistrate Court Two at Graceway House on Tuesday (June 24, 2014), Magistrate Jolyan Hatman announced that because of the nature of the charges, would deny the magistrate’s court jurisdiction and recommended that the matter be heard in the Supreme Court.

Turks and Caicos Sun Suite#5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Senior Editor: Vivian Tyson

Car knocks down 74-year-old woman in Grace Bay A 74-year-old woman knocked down by a motor vehicle on Friday November 28, 2014, in Grace Bay, Providenciales, causing her to slip into a coma and forcing the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre to airlift her out of the country, has said to regain consciousness.

Jaliyllah Rosati has opened her eyes for the first time since arriving at the hospital in Nassau, Bahamas, according to close friend Beryl Nelson, who accompanied the injured woman. Nelson has been posting regular updates about her condition on his Facebook page. .

“We got back from lunch and I was giving Jaliyllah an update on our dealings with the U.S. embassy (good) etc.... I was talking at length... And then... Scott said, ‘look at those beautiful

eyes’. I looked down to see her eyes were now open.

“So I have now seen Jaliyllah keep her eyes open for the first time since we were on board the air ambulance last Saturday,” Nelson wrote.

The SUN attempted on several occasions to obtain information from the Traffic Department of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, headquartered in Grace Bay, but an officer there told us that they do not speak to the media, and referred us to Audley Astwood – the Communications Officer for the force.

However, when contacted, Astwood said that he had not received any information from the Traffic Department regarding that and other traffic

BLUE HAVEN RESORT is inviting applications for the following position:

STORE-ROOM CLERK - This person will manage all the F&B

storages at Blue haven, this person will have the main keys and she/ he will deliver and deal with the orders from every outlet. Reporting to the Food and Beverage Director, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:

Responsibilities:

•Manage orders to and from every outlet of the resort.

•Must keep the store room, freezers and coolers organized.

•Keep inventory organized with minimum and maximum up to date •Answer questions regarding procedures and resolve discrepancies regarding receipts, deliveries and repairs.

•Receives and stores documents and confidential files; maintains record of approved document and confidential file destruction.

•Provide weekly and monthly inventories

Requirements

•Must have previous experience in same or similar field •Computer literate in Microsoft Office applications required •Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays.

•Highly responsible & reliable with the ability to work well under pressure in fast paced environment.

•Ability to work cohesively as part of a team •Must be able to lift/push up to 75lbs

Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Please Submit Applications to: cgibbons@wihl.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department.

Submissions to be no later than December 19th, 2014 Belongers need only apply.

incidents that had taken place across Providenciales in recent time, despite several attempts to do so.

The Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, through its Public Relations Officer, Takara Bain, was able to provide as much information as possible relating to the accident.

“On Friday November 28th, 2014, a 74 year old female was transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre at 8:53 pm, following a vehicular accident in Grace Bay, Providenciales. The patient was stabilized and transferred abroad for further medical treatment,” Bain said.

At press time, Astwood said he was still trying to acquire the information from the police traffic department.

Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell The Turks and Caicos SUN is a subsidiary of The SUN Media Group Ltd. We are committed to excellence in journalism, educating and informing our readers, serving and satisfying our advertisers and assisting in the overall development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

ABRAHAM & GALLIS GRAND TURK LTD. and its affiliated chain of signature brand stores trading as Ron Jon Surf Shop, Pirana Joe, Del Sol, Silver Sun and Splash Down, at the Grand Turk Cruise Center, South Beach Grand Turk, is accepting applications along with CVs/Resumes from interested and suitably qualified persons for the following positions:

SALES SUPERVISORS and SALES CLERKS

Requirements: •A sound educational background •A minimum of five years (Supervisors) and two years (Sales Clerks) general merchandising experience in a highly trusted or related field of employment or business •Proven and unblemished track record of employment •Positive and disciplined attitude and aptitude toward work in a customer service oriented business •Excellent communication, inter-personal and customer service skills •Trustworthy and reliable disposition •Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and public holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business.

•Clean criminal record •All candidates must be proficient in the English written and spoken word. Command of a second language will be a definite asset

LABOURER

Requirements: •Handyman to assist with cleaning and maintenance •Ability to give general assistance to Sales Clerks on receiving and storage of merchandise •Proven and unblemished track record of employment •Positive and disciplined attitude and aptitude toward work in a customer service oriented business •Excellent communication, inter-personal and customer service skills •Trustworthy and reliable disposition •Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and public holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business.

•Clean criminal record •All candidates must be proficient in the English written and spoken word. Command of a second language will be a definite asset Suitable candidates that do not meet the above requirements may, at the sole discretion of the Company’s management team, be eligible for consideration in circumstances where they demonstrate a clear willingness to embrace the Company’s in-house training initiatives and established standard operating policies and procedures. Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders.

Written applications only and accompanying CVs/Resumes must be addressed to the Regional Manager at the following address:

Via mail or delivery:

Abraham & Gallis Grand Turk Ltd. Ron Jon Surf Shop Grand Turk Cruise Center Grand Turk Turks & Caicos Is.

Via email to:

pedro@loscincosoles.com

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

Premier Ewing attends Ministerial conference in London

Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing in London Premier and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Dr. the Hon. Rufus W. Ewing, this week represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at the Annual Joint Ministerial Conference (JMC) in London United Kingdom.

The four day series of meetings, held from December 1-4, at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) was attended by the Leaders of the thirteen UK Overseas Territories and spanned

a range of pertinent issues facing the Territories, including Border Control & Security, Repatriation of Passports, migration and deportation and Environmental Protection and Public Private Partnerships (PPP) for Green Initiatives.

Premier Ewing, who was also joined by the Governor H. E. Peter Beckingham at this year’s JMC, copresented on Wednesday evening’s

session on Health, highlighting the need for the UK Government’s support in collaborating the procurement of medical supplies and their need to assist the Overseas Territories in the preparation efforts to protect their citizens from major health treats and pandemic outbreaks like the Ebola Virus.

According to a Government press release, Premier Ewing in highlighting the challenges that Overseas Territories face with Health, noted that the recent threat of the Ebola Virus and the necessary preparation and execution of protection measures costed the Turks and Caicos Islands some one million dollars in unbudgeted funds. The Premier further noted that particularly in the Turks and Caicos Islands and other multiisland countries, the issue of multiple ports and limited resources also presents Governments with challenges in border detection of illnesses.

On the matter of the Environment, the Premier, noting that the environment, in particular the pristine beaches, is the major attraction for the many visitors that the country receives every year, also lobbied for the re-establishment of the Conservation Fund for greater support for the protection of the environment.

The week culminated on

Wednesday evening with discussions towards the eventual agreement of an action document, communique, that will guide the initiatives of both the Territories and the UK Government over the next twelve months.

On Thursday morning the Premier attended bilateral meetings with James Duddridge, Minister with responsibility for the Overseas Territories and The Rt. Hon. Desmond Swayne, Secretary of State of the Department for International Development (DFID) to address matters of national concern including constitutional concerns, the state of the economy in relation to the small and medium businesses (SME) and support for combatting illegal immigration and national security.

While in London, the Premier will also be hosting a Turks and Caicos Islands Reception on Friday evening in celebration of the opening of a Turks and Caicos Islands Home Office in London that will cater to the furtherance of the country’s interests in the areas of Tourism, Investment and Financial Services. Expected to be in attendance are Leaders of the Overseas Territories, Turks and Caicos Islands Students, residents living in the United Kingdom, tourism partners, potential investors and friends of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Alexandra Resort & Spa is inviting applications for the following position: Activities Fun Guide

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

•To assist in teaching and coordinating a skill or activity, maintaining a standard that lead to a quality program.

•To plan ongoing daily activities in conjunction with the resort wishes and encourage our guest(s) •To assist in setting up special events such as Manager’s Cocktail Party •Administer first aid to children/guest in accordance with company policy •Set up activities ranging from volleyball to karaoke and other exercises

Requirements:

•High School Diploma •Specialized training in activity area •Good character, integrity, adaptability, enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience and self control.

•Energetic and Friendly •Patience in dealing with children and customers •Strong communication and interpersonal

LINE POSITIONS:- Labourers, housemen and pool and Beach Attendant

Salaries for the position listed above will commensurate with education and experience.

Please Submit Applications to: cgibbons@wihl.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department.

Submissions to be no later than December 19th, 2014 Belongers and Permanent Residents of the TCI need only apply.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

Deputy Police Commissioner Rodney Adams returns to work Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams will be returning to work in the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force on Monday, December 8th, 2014, it was announced by Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar.

A press release issued and signed by Farquhar on Sunday, November 30th said that Governor Peter Beckingham and the commissioner agreed that Adams will continue in his capacity of Acting Deputy Commissioner and that he will “focus on the corporate service portfolio to provide needed leadership in this area and it will be beneficial for his personal development plan”.

The Corporate Services portfolio includes human resources, training, finance, assets, strategic planning and policy development.

Superintendent Wayne Jones who was acting as Deputy Commissioner will be appointed as Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of operations.

After a jury found Adams not guilty of corruption in mid-November, he issued a press statement saying that he wanted to return to is substantive post.

“Now that this matter has run its course and has been resolved by the court, I will be officially advising HE the Governor’s Office and the Commissioner of Police that I am

high profile murder investigation on Providenciales in April 2013. It is noteworthy that three of the counts never made it to tri al and of the two that did, the Chief Justice instructed the jury to return a not guilty verdict on one count before sending them off to deliberate on the one remaining count. While I was always confident of my innocence in the entire matter, given the delicate situation involving a shocking murder in our otherwise peaceful country, I can understand why reasonable persons would be concern.

In light of these circumstances, I deliberately refrained from speaking out about my charges as I always wanted the legal process to run its course and at the end of the day the Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams results would be there for all to see.

I never doubted my innocence and I available to continue my duties as a in an organization like the RT&CIPF,” had every expectation that once the police officer. I do so out of a sense of Adams said in a press release dated court heard the evidence that it would commitment and duty to my country November 17th. conclude that I likewise was innocent and to the many young officers of the The veteran police officer said he of the charges filed against me.”

Police Service who seek a role model never once doubted his innocence.

Adams said he dedicated his to aspire to. They need to know that He added: “I was vindicated when entire professional career to policing in this life they too will face many a jury returned a verdict of “not guilty” since joining the RTCIPF on 5th March, challenges, however if you work hard, on the one count that they were given 1984. He said he decided to make be respectful of authority and always directions on by the Chief Justice of policing a career because of “love for do right, you will have nothing to fear. the Turks & Caicos Islands. This was my country and wanted to do my part I want them to know that in spite the last remaining count that I faced in ensuring the safety and security of of difficulty they too can overcome after being charged with five counts its citizens and those who come to visit challenges and achieve the rank of of corruption charges by the Integrity and live among us”.

Acting Deputy Commissioner or higher Commission alleging interference in a

BLUE HAVEN RESORT is inviting applications for the following positions:

RESTAURANT SERVERS - Reporting to the Restaurant Supervisor,

responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:

Responsibilities

•Prepares the tables, laying out napkins and utensils, making sure the condiments are refilled, performing all other preparation tasks.

•Staying updated on current menu choices, specialties and menu deviations, knowing if the kitchen staff is running out of any items…etc.

•Handle the table bookings, direct customers to their tables, presenting menus, suggesting dishes, assisting in drink selection, informing customers about food preparation details, communication specific customer needs to the cooks.

•Understands and can communicate products and services available at the hotel.

•Filling in for absent staff as needed.

•Assisting with special events as needed.

•Obtaining revenues, issuing receipts, accepting payments, returning the change.

•Greet all guests warmly with an appropriate greeting.

•Properly open and pour wine at the tableside.

Requirements

•Ability to speak and hear •Frequent walking and some standing at times •Frequently lift/carries up to 25 lbs •Able to reach hands and arms in any direction and kneel and stoop repeatedly.

•Fluency in English (1 additional language desirable) •Ability to work independently, multi task and prioritize responsibilities •POS experience – (IQ Ware desirable) LINE POSITIONS: Gardeners, Labourers and Kitchen Stewards.

Salaries for the positions listed will commensurate with skills and experience.

Please Submit Applications to: cgibbons@wihl.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department.

Submissions to be no later than December 19th, 2

FOR SALE 2006 FORD E450

SUPER DUTY BUS 26 SEATS DIESEL

Interested persons should contact 241-1355 or 331-1947 For price

Page 12

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL LOCAL NEWS NEWS

From left Country Manager James Pitt, Arielle Williams and Rachel Harvey , Marketing Manager about to announce the name that wins the Iphone 6

LIME’S Christmas Promotion launch and Christmas Tree lighting On Monday (December 1, 2014) LIME TCI announced its Christmas promotion and used the occasion to host its Annual Christmas Tree lighting. The event was held at its corporate office

A number of children’s gifts loaded under the Christmas Tree

Oseta Jolly Primary School students render a Christmas Carol

Santa Claus doles out gifts to the children

Children rush to the stage to answer a question posed by David Bowen

along the Leeward Highway, and despite the intermittent heavy downpour, scores of children with their parents turned out to the event. The following are photo highlights of the event.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

Santa and his helpers handing out the gifts

e n e

James Pitt, Country Manager for LIME TCI tells of the new products and plans that the company will be rolling out in the very near future

Tito Missick of LifeTV New Group, was the first media entity to arrive at the event, and is seen here collecting the Early Bird prize from Arielle Williams, Business Support Officer at LIME TCI

Renau Destin of Spotlight Communications collects his Iphone 6, won in the media raffle

Edith Skippings and Santa Claus official turn on the Christmas Tree

Al Smith, of PTV collects a prize from Arielle Williams of LIME

Page 13

Page 14

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS FOUR LEAF SOLUTIONS IS LOOKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING VACANT POSITIONS: InterCaribbean Airways has an opening for the position as Financial Controller Manager.

Junior IT Technician Seeking Infrastructure person with demonstrable skills/certification to A+ levels, minimum 12 months experience in similar roles, must be able to resolve a variety of Hardware and Software issues. Salary range $5-9 per hour based on experience.

With 15 years or more experience in aviation and business sectors, holding an ACA and BA in accounting from a well established and recognized institution.

Duties shall include:

Senior IT Technician

• Management of all company assets • Annual budget preparation with monthly variance analysis • Analysis of profitability for entire group of companies, their products and product line • Ability to initiate and deliver methods and systems for cost savings • Preparation and Reporting of all financial information to CEO/banks • Preparation for and overseeing annual audit • Ability and Experience in initiating new systems to assist with expansion of business • Management Supervision and Mentoring entire staff of Finance department.

Seeking degree qualified or equivalently experienced Infrastructure person with demonstrable skills/certification to at least MCSE and CCNA levels, minimum of 10 years experience, will be working at a different client locations on up to 100 user LAN/WAN configurations, must be able to resolve complex issues. Salary range $7-19 per hour commensurate with experience.

Salary shall be commensurate with educational qualification and experience.

Please no phone call for more details send resume to hr@interCaribbean. com. Only suitably qualified applications will be interviewed.

We are looking to IMMEDIATELY fill these positions, Belonger Applications are preferred, should you be interested please forward your CV to jobs@fourleafsolutions.tc, suitable applicants will be contacted within 7 days of us receiving your application.

DIJA BOUTIQUE NEEDS

BAREFOOT CABANA RESTAURANT IS LOOKING FOR

TWO DOMESTIC WORKERS. RESPONSIBLE FOR CLEANING AND GENERAL UPKEEP. SALARY $6.00 PER HOUR. ABILITY TO WORK SHIFTS, EARLY MORNINGS, LATE NIGHTS, WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS. CLEAN POLICE RECORD. ABLE TO WORK UNDER PRESSURE SALARY $ 6.00 PER HOUR. CONTACT # 3479069 NO CALL AFTER 5 PM PLEASE. BELONGER APPLICANTS PREFERRED.

WANTED

Caicos Bakery & Retail LTD Is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the following position:

LUC MAXIMILIEN RIGBY BUILDERS South Caicos

TWO LABOURERS BELONGER APPLICANTS PREFERRED .

MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 12 HRS SHIFT AND WEEKEND SALARY $ 6.00 PER HOUR. CONTACT # 3479069 NO CALL AFTER 5 PM PLEASE

DOMESTIC WORKER

Bakery & Pastry Chef Specialized in gluten free and organic products

1 LABOURER Applicant must be honest, reliable & hardworking also fluent in English & French Contact 346-7799

Chiraag Ltd

Have 5yrs experience in similar position Excellent Interpersonal skills Excellent written & verbal communication Ability to work within a team Must be a team player Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing or send resume to: Caicos Bakery & Retail Ltd. Grace Bay Road (behind Caicos café) Phone (649)242-2266(Eric) Email: bakerytc@gmail.com

NEW ERA PETROLEUM LTD

Seeks a Sales Clerk Responsibilities include greeting customers, presenting and selling merchandise, and inventory control. The successful applicant must have a minimum of 3 years sales experience, be honest, hardworking and self-motivated.

You must be available to work Monday through Saturday, with flexibility to attend training sessions outside work hours.

Working holiday hours may also be required.

Seeks 1 Driver Salary $6.00 per hour 6 Days per week Interested person should contact 341341-1123 or 346-1819

Consulting D’T.C.I BELLE BEAUTY FASHION SALON  



   

IS SEEKING A CASHIER

Sunday to Wednesday 6:00am to 11:00pm/Thursday to Saturday 6:00am to 2:00am Starting salary is $6.00 per hour, (44) forty-four hours per week.Interested persons can apply in person at the office, please bring your resume detailing your employment history.

Contact: (649)-946-5564

               

1 CARPENTER SALARY $7.00 PER HOUR INTERESTED

PERSON SHOULD

CONTACT

Salary $200 per week 5 days per week

347-1309

Contact : 331-8591

New Life Worship Center,

T.C.I Consulting

UPC, is accepting resumes for position of Sunday School Teacher. Candidates should be able to cast God’s vision and lead the association into a new era by helping churches fulfill their mission in developing the members to reach their full potential in God and foster partnerships between other charitable organizations. Base salary is set to $14,400.00 per annum.

Send resumes to_Attention: New Life Worship Centre, Kishco Plaza, Leeward Hwy or email to derek655@hotmail.com by December 19th, 2014.

is here seeking a Technology system Specialist should have a least 11 year experienced Skill and Certification in CCNA level and NCSE should be able to work unsupervised and work long hours included holiday as well We are looking to Immediately fill this position.

Belonger applications are preferred should you be interesting forward your CV to tcicsltd@gmail.com

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 15

LOCAL NEWS

Wilkie Arthur, Shamardo Hutchinson acquitted day.

By Vivian Tyson Wilkie Arthur, who is serving a 15-year sentence at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk, was acquitted of the home invasion and injuring of an elderly tourist couple who was vacationing at a villa in the Turtle Tail area of Venetian Road in Providenciales, 2013.

One of Arthur’s co-accused Shamardo Hutchinson also walked free. The prosecution however, pursued the case against teen Curtis Butterfield, who was said to have given a confession statement to the police when he was arrested.

Butterfield later pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and grievous bodily harm after consultation with his Wilike Arthur attorney, Ashwood Forbes.

He is to return for sentencing Antonio Luciano to carry out on January 24, after a pre- aggravated burglary at the sentencing report from Social villa, where the pensioners Services is presented to the were staying. court.

On March 3, 2013, three The court was told that armed masked men forced Arthur, who is currently their way into the villa. They serving the lengthy sentence flung the woman to the ground, for the Jai’s Jewelers robbery fracturing her hip in the in 2010, conspired with three process, which left her to walk other men – Hutchinson, with a permanent limp. They Butterfield and also used a machete to chop

the man to his head, leaving him with a noticeable scar.

They later used duct tape to bind their victims’ hands and feet, also using it to cover their mouths and eyes.

The female victim had to be flown out on an air ambulance the same night, while the man, after reliving the horrible incident to the police, was flown out the next

court on Monday (December Arthur, Butterfield, 1, 2014), that the office of the Hutchinson and another man - Director of Public Prosecution Antonio Luciano - were charged did not wish to further pursue with the home invasion. the case against Arthur, Hutchinson and Luciano were who represented himself charged with aggravated and Hutchinson, who was burglary, committing grievous represented by attorney-atbodily harm and conspiracy to law Laura Maroof. commit aggravated burglary.

To that end, presiding Butterfield was charged with judge, Chief Justice Margaret aggravated burglary and Ramsay-Hale, directed the grievous bodily harm, while seven-member mixed jury, Arthur, who investigated comprising six women and fingered as the mastermind, one man, to return a not guilty was only charged with verdict. conspiracy, as they believed The SUN understands though he assembled and that Arthur will now turn his dispatched the criminal trio, attention to appealing his Jai’s did not play a physically role jewellery robbery sentence, in the act. which he has been service All four were later since 2013.It is understood charged by investigators from that he is waiting to receive his the Royal Turks and Caicos bundle from the prosecution.

Islands Police Force. In August On July 10, 2010, three last year, prior to the trial, the masked men a woman, who charges against Luciano were police said was posing as withdrawn. customer, invaded the jewelry The trial started on store and robbed it of pricy Monday (November 24, 2014), merchandise including, a during which the victims number of Rolex Watches, flew into the country to give said to value at $USD193,966. evidence. And after a week Arthur was said to have been of trial, the prosecution one of the perpetrators of the comprising Clement Joseph robbery. and Carlos Mason, told the

Administration and Finance Officer – Providenciales Part time 30 hours a week Sunny Foods Retail and Wholesale Ltd. invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the following vacant position:

STORE MANAGER

The Red Cross is looking for a part time experienced Administration and Finance Officer who will be responsible for ensuring the fluent financial and administration management of the TCI Red Cross in relation to the overall TCI Red Cross at a national level, along with providing support to the Provo office, it’s programmes and the overall management of the financial systems.

Duties and responsibilities include: •managing and motivating a team to increase sales and ensure efficiency •managing stock levels and making key decisions about stock control •analyzing sales figures and forecasting future sales •analyzing and interpreting industry trends •managing staffing issues such as interviewing potential staff, conducting appraisals and performance reviews, as well as providing or organizing training and development •ensuring standards for quality, customer service and health and safety are met •responding to customer complaints and comments •organizing special promotions, sales and events •touring the sales floor regularly, talking to colleagues and customers, and identifying or resolving urgent issues •maintaining awareness of market trends in the retail industry, understanding forthcoming customer initiatives •Create and maintain good rapport with customer and overseas suppliers •Knowledge of food service products •Must be able to work on holidays and flexible shifts •Multilingual is an asset •Excellent communication skills on all levels •Must be customer friendly •Trustworthy, dependable and a team player •Salary commensurate with experience •5 years or more experience in this area

Interested persons are to submit resumes to hr@ alliedcaribbean.com by December 11, 2014.

Qualifications

•Working knowledge of Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel) •Financial Software (Quick books) •Seven plus years of finance experience •Three plus years in basic administration

Experience in the Red Cross or another humanitarian organization would be an asset.The successful candidate will also be sensitive to diversity, able to work cross-culturally and adhere to the Red Cross principles throughout daily responsibilities as well as working with the most vulnerable in the community. You will be required to provide support and work in Disaster Response.

For the full job description and an application form, please contact our Provo office on 941 8056 or by email redcrossprovo@tciway.tc

Deadline for applications is 19TH December 2014.

Page 16

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

Multimillion dollar Blue Heron FBO opens in Provo

The Blue Heron team Twenty one new aviation-related jobs have been created with the opening of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ second Fixed Base Operation (FBO)- Blue Heron Aviation, operated

by M Aviation.

The one storey aesthetically elegant, energy-efficient facility is equipped with spacious reception area outfitted with a massive flat screen TV affixed on the wall and other facilities for guests to relax, and offices for immigration and customs officers.

Louis Jennings, General Manager for the multimillion dollar new jet centre - opened a little over two weeks ago - revealed that the facility is part of Signature Flight Support, which he said is the largest portfolio of FBOs on the planet, and represents not just the largest but the best FBOs. “And we are very proud to be part of that and to bring that to the Turks and Caicos. It (Blue Heron FBO) is a multimillion dollar endeavor, and a lot of that went back to the local economy in the form of using local contractors and design firms,” Jennings said.

Jennings pointed out that

The entrance to the facility

the 6,200 square-foot building was designed to be elegant but not lavish.

“It is designed to be understatedly elegant, and I think you can see by the building that was accomplished. The transformation that occurred here daily, as the construction grew closer and closer, from a construction site to an open business was phenomenal.

“I came out here every day and I remember specifically when the landscaping first started going in.

What a huge difference that made in the look and feel of the building. And in a year’s time when all of this growth is matured, it will be like a jungle, and I think that’s pretty cool,” Jennings said.

He said that the entire facility was designed locally and constructed using local vendors and contractors, which he said provided a well-needed boost to the local economy. He said that Anthony Walking of Conservative Architects was the building designer; Olympic Construction was the prime contractor of the facility; while Herzog carried out the paving.

Jennings further explained that

during the excavation process, anyone with loose equipment and wanted in, was given an opportunity to earn.

He said that the construction of the FBO opens up the business opportunity especially for the community of Five Cays. He pointed out that the FBO’s construction appears to already begin to bear economic spinoffs with the construction a car rental company building in its vicinity.

“There is economic benefit; we have seen even a speculative economic growth in the area with a new car rental facility,” Jennings said.

The Blue Heron Aviation Manager said that the site has 12-acres of dedicated airplane parking space, and while it is designed to hold approximate 40 medium and large planes in one go, could hold much more or fewer depending on the combination of big and small planes on the ground at the same time.

“How many aircraft can fit on that, of course, is direct correlation to the size of aircraft mix, but in a planning process, this was designed to hold 40 medium and large size corporate and

The air side of the FBO

private aircraft,” Jennings said.

The Turks and Caicos Islands economy grows between six and eight percent annually. If you look at that in a global perspective, that is a tremendous number. We know from well-established data sets that the business and private aircraft growth in the Caribbean overall is approaching 10 percent annually, outside of China or the US. So I thought that was a very logical and well-thought-out business model to be able to accommodate that expansion,” Jennings said.

He said that the facility is equipped with a 5,000 and a 7,000 aircraft refueler, and a 102,000 gallon above ground fuel storage in its terminal, which he said is awaiting approval from the TCI Airports Authority.

“Until then, we have a relationship with Rubis to provide inter-plane and fuel services for us until our facility is green-lighted,” Jennings said, adding that preliminary inspection by the Airports Authority has already been done.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 17

LOCAL NEWS

Blame the PNP not the House of Assembly

Member of Parliament for Grand Turk South Hon. Edwin Astwood is asserting that persons who blame the House of Assembly and not the Progressive National Party (PNP) government for legislature’s sluggish productivity level are taking the coward route out.

Astwood told a People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) news conference on Monday (December 1, 2014) in Providenciales that he is frustrated with those members of the public who continue to broad brush the House of Assembly for the PNP’s failures, telling reporters that it is the government that is staking the legislature from being more productive.

“I am tired of people in the media and the general public keeps on blaming the House of Assembly for things that are not being implemented in the country.

And I have to keep reminding them that it is not the House of Assembly, it is the elected PNP Government (that is to be blamed). We are doing more with our voice than what the government is doing with millions of dollars,” Astwood asserted.

He added: “So I want people to stop saying it is the House of Assembly (that is not productive). So don’t take the coward way out because you want to blame a PNP government or your party. It is the PNP Government who is making these falsehoods, messing up, who is doing all these wrongs to the country.

“We are there stopping them, but we are getting the blame too and the House of Assembly that is getting the blame. So I want you to stop that. It is not the House of Assembly, it is the PNP Government that is doing all these bad things to the country, and it is the PDM who is there fighting for them.”

Astwood also blame government for being more proactive in reducing the chikungunya cases in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He said that if government takes the necessary

steps to tackle mosquito-breeding, the problem would be fixed in no time.

“After returning from a funeral on the weekend in Miami, I was greeted with ponds and swamps and lakes at the (JAGS McCartney International).

We know that a few months ago we had the issue with Dengue and Chikungunya. And with the current rains over the weekend, what is going to happen to our islands again? Is the ministry ready to deal with problem?

Because the mosquitoes coming back.

Do they have adequate supply of chemicals? We hear that they had run out, and we hear the excuses that they don’t have this and they don’t have that.

Are they ready again because the more it rains, the more mosquitoes there will be – they are not going anywhere,” he said.

Astwood called on the Ministry to make public their plan for tackling what could be another round of mosquito infestation.

“I want to know what the ministry is doing now, what is their preparation to deal with this. They must adequately do some spraying. Yes, they did some spraying in their cars riding on the road, but that is not effective enough. We hate to tell them how to do their jobs, and what leadership the minister should be giving to the relevant departments, but they have to be more aggressive in their efforts in eliminating the Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes.

And they can do that; once they eliminate the vector the disease will go away; it is as simple as that. I am speaking from a professional point of view, not as someone on the outside looking in. It is easy to do; just provide the resources and the manpower,” he urged.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Aedes Aegypti mosquito is responsible for the spreading of dengue fever, chikungunya, yellow fever viruses, and Hon. Edwin Astwood other diseases.

LITIGATION ATTORNEY WITH A MINIMUM OF AT LEAST 15 YEARS POST-QUALIFICATION EXPERIENCE WITH ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ATTRIBUTES:

MANAGER AQUACULTURE OPERATIONS

•Admission to the Turks & Caicos Bar, •A minimum of 15 years experience in commercial litigation and commercial arbitration at all courts levels , •Qualified and experienced as an arbitrator in the areas of insurance and banking disputes; •Hard working with a willingness to work long hours including weekends and holidays; and •Fluent French and Spanish are essential.

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Marine Biology or related field required.

Must have a minimum of ten (10) years husbandry experience in a marine environment and Industry experience in Broodstock incubation/larval production/hatchery & nursery protocol, as well as complete knowledge & familiarity with pumping, filtration and sterilizing systems. The Manager of Aquaculture Operations manages and is responsible for both skilled and unskilled employees (10) and answers directly to the TWI Board of Directors.

Salary will commensurate with experience, minimum starting rate is $300.00 per hour.

Interested parties should send a cover letter and resume to Saunders & Co., Attention: Office Manager – via Fax: 941-4533 or Email: info@saunders.tc

Compensation commensurate with experience.

Submit resume to: SAUNDERS & CO/Attention Caicos Conch Farm.

Town Centre Building *Box 257* Providenciales *Turks and Caicos Islands

Page 18

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TCI Hospital is NOT NHIP

LOCAL NEWS

The continuing debate over the provision and cost of healthcare in Why aren’t more services available at the Hospital? the Turks and Caicos Islands has confused many as to the differences • Since opening in 2010, additional services have been introduced between the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), the National and the Hospital remains eager to bring still more services onHealth Insurance Plan (NHIP) and the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital. island to lower the cost of sending patients overseas for treatment.

It can only do so with the approval of the TCIG after a full financial Here are answers to some frequently asked questions: and quality analysis has demonstrated that the new service will What is the difference between NHIB, NHIP and TCI Hospital? bring cost savings to the country.

The NHIB is the entity which manages and oversees all activities involving the TCI’s national health insurance plan (the NHIP). The NHIP is not a separate organization; it is the name of the insurance plan operated by NHIB. TCI Hospital is an entirely un-related organization.

It provides patient care to NHIP beneficiaries as the NHIB’s preferred provider.

Why do we have to pay a co-pay fee?

In the UK, the cost is borne wholly by government through taxation, but the TCI does not have a tax base strong enough to do so. The TCIG arrangements follow those of a number of countries and the cost is covered by a mix of contributions based on income and a payment made at the point of service delivery – the co-pay amount.

What is the role of the TCI Hospital?

The TCI Hospital provides the services that are identified by the TCI government and that are covered by the NHIP. The Hospital then collects co-pay fees on behalf of the TCIG. •

TCI Hospital is not responsible for and has no control over setting NHIP co-pay fees.

•

All NHIP co-pay fees paid at the Hospital are turned over to TCIG and are not retained by the Hospital.

•

All monthly contributions in accordance with the NHIP Ordinance are deducted by and paid to NHIB and not to TCI Hospital.

•

Other revenue for TCI Hospital comes from private insurance and direct payment from those individuals without any form of insurance coverage.

What health care benefits am I entitled to once I am a member of the NHIP? The health care benefits available to members of the NHIP are published by the NHIB. Benefit questions should be directed to NHIB personnel.

•

TCI Hospital has no role in determining what services or benefits NHIB makes available to its beneficiaries.

•

New services introduced since 2010 include medical oncology, hip and knee replacement surgery, plastic/cosmetic surgery, neurology, urology, ophthalmology, ENT and nephrology.

Who makes decisions about overseas treatment?

•

If the Hospital’s clinical staff finds that a patient’s medical care needs cannot be provided in the Hospital, the NHIB is advised of that fact and the NHIB then manages the transfer process.

•

The NHIB is responsible for deciding to which overseas hospital in which country patients will be sent. That decision is not made by TCI Hospital.

What should I do if I have questions about my benefits or concerns with my NHIP card?

The NHIB has excellent service representatives located at Salt Mills Plaza in Providenciales (649 941 8861) and in Grand Turk on Hospital Road (649 946 2611). If you have a problem with your card, contact them immediately. The Hospital does not approve NHIP coverage or issue NHIP cards to patients. NHIB has provided the Hospital’s patient registration services with software to allow quick identification of eligibility when the NHIP card number is entered into this system. If there are issues with your card contact NHIB immediately so they can investigate and respond to you. Please avoid taking your frustration out on Hospital staff, as these matters are out of their control.

This message was brought to you by the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

v

LOCAL NEWS JOB TITLE:

REPORTS TO (TITLE):

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 19

Human Resources Manager CEO

Type:

Permanent

Location:

Digicel TCI/Digicel Play Leeward Highway Providenciales

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Primary objective of the job:

Partnering with the Line Managers of all departments in Digicel to:

•Manage the day to day HR services provided to these departments which include Learning and Development, Performance Management, all Employee Relations activities, following the local appropriate processes and some aspects of recruitment and selection.

•Provide support and HR presence in the development of the department structure, manpower planning and job profiles to ensure alignment to business objectives.

•Perform in capacity of “Key partner” to Line Managers and employees in these areas to ensure that the objectives, policies, procedures that have been implemented and adopted are being consistently carried out.

Number of persons managed/supervised and their positions: •Nil

Main Duties and Responsibilities: Performance management:

Working in accordance with the Digicel performance review guidelines to manage the semi-annual DPR process for all departments with key activities to include: Providing guidance and training to all reviewers (up to line managerial level) and reviewers to ensure clear understanding of the objectives of the DPR tool/process.

•Ensuring semi-annual reviews are accurately completed and submitted based on deadlines set.

•Ensuring all Individual Development plans and Objectives for next review period are accurately completed for each employee.

•Ensuring the accurate tabulation of performance scores are submitted to payroll to facilitate timely payment of bonuses.

•Ensuring the issuing of bonus letters to all employees are done on a timely basis.

•Preparing and presenting analysis of DPR results to management team.

Training and Development:

Collaborate with CEO, Regional L&D Manager and relevant line managers to effectively manage and execute all training and development activities: •Ensuring that managers have completed 1-2-1 sessions with all employees on a monthly basis •Developing training needs analysis based on Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and identify relevant training programs to ‘match’ employees’ career development path.

•Where applicable, provide career counseling guidance to individual employees.

•Setting up course templates, training sessions, and managing registration roster to ensure attendants of employees to selected training courses.

•Identifying training facilitators to conduct training sessions as well as facilitate the delivery of Training sessions where applicable.

•Develop methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and prepare monthly reports accordingly.

•Partner with Line Managers to execute succession planning activities and ensure its continuity.

•Managing the company’s Induction Program.

•Succession planning, developing member of the HR Team to HR Manager level.

Employee Relations:

Partnering with Line Managers to oversee the management of all employee relations activities as it relates to: •Resolving management and employee issues by investigating complaints/grievances, evaluating all responses and offering possible courses of action, providing advice, guidance and direction for speedy resolution.

•Maintaining human resources records by coaching and directing managers/supervisors in the preparation of clear documentation of incidents and resolution of problems and the importance of building employee confidence by protecting reputations and keeping information confidential.

•Assuming full responsibility for all staff communication – staff meetings, management retreats, attending all departmental staff meetings, communicate organizational changes, new HR initiatives etc.

•Ensure that all senior managers communicate the results of the EOS with their respective teams ; follow up to ensure that all Senior Managers complete their assigned actions based on EOS feedback •Assisting with the formulation and updating/reviewing of all HR policies and procedures and ensuring timely communication, interpretation and consistency of policy application.

•Overseeing the execution of employee relations activities associated with, termination, exit interviews, employee assistance program, employee recognition and rewards programs, employee opinion surveys, staff welfare issues (sports and social club activities, health and wellness).

•Collaborating with line managers to monitor staff morale by providing counseling and staff relations services in an effort to foster and maintain a harmonious working relationship.

Recruitment and Selection:

In compliance with the company’s recruitment guidelines: •Partnering with HR Team and Hiring managers to ensure job profiles and manpower budget are relevant to support each department.

•Participating in the interviewing and selection process.

Other:

•Participating in the annual budgeting process ensuring the departments achieve its Opex budgeted targets.

•Providing direction and guidance for the assigned HR & Facilities team in the performance of their day-to-day duties as well as ensure the appropriate development mechanisms are in place to achieve success on the job.

•Participating as resource leadership team to support policy, program and procedure development as well as legal and compliance issues and other HR projects as required.

•Oversee Facilities team, ensure office operations are run smoothly by the Office Manager in order to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.

•Oversee organization of office operations and procedures and ensure relationships with external suppliers are maintained to a high level.

Academic qualifications and experience required for job:

•B.Sc. in Management Studies or Human Resource Management •Four (4) years’ experience in Human Resource Management at Managerial Level

Functional Skills:

•Working knowledge of employment legislation and labour laws.

•Advance working knowledge of MC Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio •Excellent counseling, facilitation and negotiating skills •Knowledge of manpower and budget planning.

•Exceptional communication, interpersonal and people management skills •Ability to exercise considerable judgment and discretion in establishing and maintaining positive working relationships and creating harmonious environment.

•Displays high level of confidentiality.

•Ability to be flexible and respond to a variety of issues in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Internal/External contacts:

•All Departments within the business as well as overall cross section of employees within the company.

•Recruiting and Training agencies, suppliers, business partners, group HR, prospective candidates.

Key Performance Indicators:

•Ensuring all HR Programs, policies, processes and practices are properly documented, current and support the achievement of company’s objectives.

•Driving employee satisfaction upwards & establishing Digicel as a top employer to work for •Ensuring consistent compliance to all HR policies and practices •Operating in an objective and transparent manner, sets high work standards and establish clear direction to ensure subordinates HR targets and objectives are achieved on a timely basis.

•Ensuring development and welfare of employees is timely and adequately addressed.

Only Belongers need apply – Salary Based on Experience Interested applicants should forward their resume to hrtci@digicelgroup.com Deadline for submission is 29th December 2014

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

Pavillion Restaurant opens at Somerset

By Vivian Tyson To widen the scope on how local and international cuisines are done in the Turks and Caicos Islands – that is the vision of the Pavillion Restaurant at the Somerset Resort on Grace Bay, Providenciales.

The Pavillion Restaurant – the former O’Soleil - which has its launch earlier this month has been recreated to offer a dining experience that goes beyond the wide array of local and international cuisines that it has been serving up.

The restaurant is divided into four sections: the Zhan Garden – which is roofless and embodies more of a Caribbean nature; the Verandah section, described as most romantic, which provides a panorama of the crochet lawn, is open for breakfast and sunset meals; and there are two indoor dining areas, one of them located upstairs. There is also the Pearl Bar, which is described as an experience in itself.

The Pavillion also runs the casual poolside bar and grill – LunaSea. LunaSea offers daytime beach and poolside dining, all day cocktail service and happy hour. The bar area is equipped with a television, which shows especially the latest in sporting events. LunaSea provides for resort guest as well as non-resort guests.

Russell Garland, owner of the restaurant, told The SUN that the aim is for guests to have an experience that whenever they think about eating out locally, the Pavillion would be at the top of their list.

“We have international chefs.

We have Canadians, Americans, Haitians, Dominicans; we have chefs from all over. So everyone is bringing their own flavor to the restaurant. And going forward, the whole objective is to create an ambience that gives the greatest dining experience. We don’t want to have a restaurant that caters to someone just going out to dinner, we want to create an experience,” he

Pavillion Executive Chef Justin Currrie and his team take time from their busy schedule for a photo op asserted.

American designer Paola Silverio The Pavillion is headed by 28-yearwas tasked with the job to create the old Canadian chef Justin redesign and aesthetics and theme Currie, who is in charge of the entire for the Pavillion. The Pavillion is food programme at the resort. The Silverio’s first Caribbean designing executive chef has been depicted by experience, and he said that he relished the resort management as a cooking the challenge. dynamo, who they said has managed to “I was hired to take a look at what combine Caribbean sensibilities with Executive Chef for the Pavillion Restaurant, Justin Currie share lens with restaurant owner existed and what we can do to maintain his formal culinary background. the integrity of the resort, which is the Currie explained that between Russell Garland Somerset and to get something that is Wednesday and Monday the Pavillion kind of upper level style of dining for offers dining service, but on Tuesday, it Currie told The SUN that his team the island. Basically we are trying to is shut down to accommodate a huge included some of the most amazing recreate and serve a dream. beach party, which he described as an local talents in regular culinary and “Pavillions are quite popular in all-Caribbean-style buffet, inclusive of pastry.

India because they are a covered area fruit carvings and delectable disserts “We have got some of the best with no walls basically, a place to relax from whom he described as some of the bakers on this island. I come from and to have a meal. So basically, what most amazing and talented chefs he Toronto; I have seen some cool stuff.

I have done to this building was to has ever worked with.

And here, I have met some people, create different sections, so each dining who, their knowledge might not be section is basically like a pavilion. We where it should because there is no have a verandah room, we have a culinary school here, but the passion garden room and we have the round and drive is there. And honestly, the room. All the different rooms I treat as smallest amount of guidance on my a pavilion,” Silverio explained. part has turned some of these guys into Urmas Karner, General Manager phenomenal chefs and pastry chefs” he for the Somerset said that like many explained. of the fine dining options on Provo, the vvCurrie added: “Guys who Pavillion Restaurant does not report are only doing this for a couple of years directly to the resort, but said that they are well past where I was when I was work closely with the culinary team. a couple years into it, because they “It is a standalone operation. have this drive to just learn and better However, our management cooperates and better themselves and better the very closely, our line staff, the chefs, restaurant, because the reputation the supervisors, we all work together that they have built for this place will to provide a common guest experience A Pavillion waiter displays some of the food be the reputation that they will put on prepared at the restaurant to our visitors,” Karner said. their resume’s.”

POSITION AVALIABLE Domestic Worker

Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply:

Applicants must have previous experience as a domestic work and cook. Must be comfortable and experienced around the care and walking of larger breed dogs and be willing to work 6 days a week including holidays and weekends. Hours will need to be flexible in order to flex for evening service when required. Nutritional food experience also an asset. Must have a willing, positive and personable attitude. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply. Strong previous references and background check mandatory. Please e-mail your resume to turksdomesticworker@yahoo.com. Deadline is December 10, 2014.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 21

LOCAL NEWS

The Salvation Army invites you

Wednesday December 10, 2014 12.00 to 1:30 pm at the Seven Stars Resort

to e x p e r i e n c e a

n o e h c s Lun

’ n a M oor

P

Speakers: Clement High School testimony Salvation Army - Captain Derick Miller

raising awareness of Tci’s poor and hungry

Donation $50.00

Call 332-6418 or 431-9711 All proceeds go to the Salvation Army to help feed the hungry in TCI

Page 22

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

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†Conditions apply. You will earn 3% cash back on the first USD $20,000 (or equivalent in local currency) you spend annually at gas stations and grocery stores. This 3% cash back applies at merchants which are classified in the MasterCard network as Grocery Stores & Supermarkets, Service Stations and Automated Fuel Dispensers (Merchant Codes: 5411, 5541 & 5542). You will earn 2% cash back on the first USD $20,000 (or equivalent in local currency) you spend annually at drug stores and pharmacies. This 2% cash back applies at merchants which are classified in the MasterCard network as Drug Stores & Pharmacies (Merchant Code: 5912). Some merchants may sell these products/services or are separate merchants who are located on the premises of these merchants, but are classified by MasterCard in another manner, in which case this added benefit would not apply. You will earn 1% cash back on purchases made after you have reached the 3% and 2% USD $20,000 (or equivalent in local currency) annual spend maximum (“overflow”) and on all other eligible purchases made with the card. Purchase returns, payments, cash advances, Scotiabank Credit Card Cheques, credit vouchers, card fees, interest charges or service/transaction charges do not qualify for cash back. Subject to change without notice. Visit tc.scotiabank.com/cashback for full Terms & Conditions of the Scotiabank Cash Back Rewards Program. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under licence. ®MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated.

10295 Gold Newspaper-TC-Sun-FP.indd 1

2014-09-10 11:43

The Turks & Caicos Sun wants you to spread the Christmas joy by advertising your thanks and appreciation to staff and customers.

For more information on our Christmas special please call Tel:(649)-339-5879 or email: sun@suntci.com

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 23

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Page 24

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

Page B-1

VOLUME 10 - NO. 46

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CARIBBEAN NEWS/ WORLD NEWS AND SPORTS/BUSINESS SECTION B Website: www.suntci.com

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www.facebook.com/tcisun

Anger boils in New York City

U

.S. Attorney General Eric Holder promised a full investigation into a white New York police officer’s role in the choking death of an unarmed black man, following a night of protests over a grand jury decision not to bring charges in the incident.

The grand jury’s decision on Wednesday came nine days after the news that a white officer in Missouri who shot and killed an unarmed black teenager would also not face criminal charges.

The New York officer, Daniel Pantaleo, could face disciplinary action from an internal probe, his lawyer said, adding that he expects that process to move quickly.

A departmental investigation will likely focus on whether he employed a chokehold, banned by New York Police Department regulations, contributing to the death of 43-year-old Eric Garner as officers arrested him in July.

The New York and Missouri cases have sparked sometimes violent protests around the country by demonstrators who say U.S. law enforcement and the criminal justice

system are stacked against African Americans and other minorities.

Speaking in Cleveland, where he announced the Justice Department had found the police department in that city systematically engaged in excessive use of force, Holder said officials must do more to repair the trust between police officers and the communities they patrol.

Federal investigations into the Missouri and New York cases, which are ongoing, are not enough, said Holder, who is the country’s top law enforcement official.

The Cleveland investigation, which began in March 2013, gained added prominence after a Cleveland police officer last month shot dead a 12-year-old boy who was carrying what turned out to be a replica pellet gun on a playground.

POLICE RETRAINING New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who took office in January promising to improve relations between minority New Yorkers and

police, told reporters on Thursday the city’s thousands of patrol officers would undergo extensive retraining.

“The relationship between police and community has to change,” he told a news conference. “People need to know that black lives and brown lives matter as much as white lives.”

Stuart London, the police officer’s lawyer, said in an interview Thursday that Pantaleo testified to the grand jury that he never put pressure on Garner’s neck. Instead, Pantaleo said he used a proper takedown technique, London said.

That account was echoed by Patrick Lynch, the president of the patrolmen’s union, who called Pantaleo a “model” officer at a press conference on Thursday.

London said he expects the internal police review to conclude quickly, perhaps within weeks, and expressed confidence his client would be exonerated.

The city’s medical examiner has said police officers killed the 43-year-old Garner by compressing his neck and chest, adding that Garner’s

asthma and obesity had contributed to his death.

CHOKEHOLDS BANNED Although chokeholds are technically banned by New York City police regulations, the 2,000page patrol guide is vague about whether such use of force can be allowed in certain circumstances, said Maria Haberfeld, who heads John Jay College’s Department of Law, Police Science and Criminal Justice Administration.

That gray area, she said, may have influenced the grand jury and could play a role in determining whether Pantaleo faces departmental discipline.

A New York judge offered some basic details about the grand jury proceeding at the request of Staten Island District Attorney Daniel Donovan. Justice Stephen Rooney said the panel heard from 50 witnesses and examined 60 exhibits in the course of nine weeks of deliberation.

Continued on page B-2

Page B-2

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

WORLD NEWS LOCAL NEWS CARIBBEAN NEWS

Anger boils in New York City

Continued from page B-1

Prosecutors instructed the jurors on New York’s statute that delineates when police officers are permitted to use force during an arrest, the judge added.

The panel’s decision sparked protests by hundreds of people who swarmed the streets in midtown Manhattan on Wednesday night, many chanting “I can’t breathe,” the same

phrase Garner repeatedly gasped in a video captured by a bystander of the incident on a Staten Island sidewalk before his death. Police said on Thursday there had been 83 arrests.

People also demonstrated in other cities, including Oakland, Washington, D.C., Denver and Minneapolis.

Holder acknowledged on

Thursday that the bar for bringing federal civil rights charges is high but said the Justice Department has met that standard when appropriate.

Michael Selmi, a professor at George Washington University and former litigator in the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, said announcing a federal investigation following a controversial

state grand jury decision is a tool the Justice Department can use to ease tensions, though it rarely leads to a conviction.

He pointed to the federal investigation into the case of George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watchman who shot and killed unarmed black teen Trayvon Martin in 2012, which has yet to be concluded.

Republican woman resigns after criticising Obama girls

Malia, right, and Sasha Obama listen to their father, President Barack Obama, speak before pardoning turkeys during a ceremony at the White House in Washington on November 26, 2014.

WASHINGTON - An aide to a Republican congressman resigned Monday after her Facebook post criticizing President Barack Obama’s daughters touched off a backlash.

Elizabeth Lauten, communications director to Rep. Stephen Fincher of Tennessee, said 16-year-old Malia Obama and her sister Sasha, 13, should have shown more “class” at a turkey-pardoning ceremony last week at the White House.

Lauten posted on Facebook that the girls were “coming up a little short in the ‘good role model’ department” and needed to dress and behave more appropriately as she commented on their appearance at their father’s traditional pardoning of two Thanksgiving turkeys this week.

“Dear Sasha and Malia, I get you’re both in those awful teen years, but you’re part of the First Family, try showing a little class. At least respect the part you play. Then again your mother and father don’t respect their positions very much, or the nation for that matter, so I’m guessing you’re coming up a little short in the “good role model” department.

Nevertheless, stretch yourself. Rise to the occasion.

Act like being in the White House matters to you.

Dress like you deserve respect, not a spot at a bar.

And certainly don’t make faces during televised, public events.”

The original Facebook post is no longer live.

But, a screenshot of the post circulated Saturday on twitter.

Questions sent to Lauten on Saturday afternoon

by The Associated Press were not immediately answered.

After the post became the topic of conversation on sites such as The Root, Gawker and Vibe, Lauten issued an apology, saying “many hours of prayer,” conversations with her family and a re-reading of her words made her reconsider the post.

“When I first posted on Facebook I reacted to an article and I quickly judged the two young ladies in a way that I would never have wanted to be judged myself as a teenager,” Lauten told the newspaper in an email. “Please know, those judgmental feelings truly have no place in my heart. Furthermore, I’d like to apologize to all of those who I have hurt and offended with my words, and I pledge to learn and grow (and I assure you I have) from this experience.”

Lauten later apologized for the comments and deleted

the original post, which drew harsh criticism across social media.

Jessica Carter, chief of staff for Fincher, said Monday that Lauten resigned. Carter had no additional comment on a personnel matter.

After the post became the topic of conversation on a variety websites, Lauten issued an apology, saying “many hours of prayer,” conversations with her family and a re-reading of her words made her reconsider the post.

Roy Herron, chairman of the Tennessee Democratic Party, issued a statement Monday calling Lauten’s criticism of the Obama daughters “cruel, outrageous and inexcusable.”

Herron called the comment an “unprecedented low in Washington mudslinging” and “absolutely toxic for our civic life and political culture.”

Sean Spicer, communications director for the Republican National Committee, tweeted Monday that “children, especially the first daughters, are off limits.”

But while Lauten’s comments were “inappropriate and insensitive, the mainstream media’s coverage of this story is appalling,” Spicer said, adding that in more than 20 years in politics, he has “never seen one of the countless inappropriate comments by Democrats ever covered to a fraction of this” remark by a previously unknown staffer.

Elizabeth Lauten

Vatican has millions of dollars extra

Pope Francis listens to a speech during a special audience he held for members of the FOCSIV Italian Catholic volunteers, at the Vatican, Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014

VATICAN CITY — The Vatican’s economy czar says the Holy See’s finances are in better shape than he thought, revealing that hundreds of millions of euros were kept off the balance sheet and that reforms are forging ahead to make the Vatican “boringly successful.”

In a frank essay published Thursday in Britain’s The Catholic Herald, Cardinal George Pell outlined his vision for a Vatican that follows international a c c o u n t i n g standards, is

transparent and defending fiefdoms the scandals. The however, audited externally, and dragging its feet reforms, implementing are going ahead to and uses its in proceeds to help the international anti- make the Vatican moneylaundering “boringly successful,” poor.

Pell said.

Pope Francis was norms.

He said his elected in 2013 on a He resurrected mandate to get the two of the most team had discovered Vatican’s finances recent scandals — that the financial in order after years the “sacking” of situation was “much of scandal at its the Vatican bank healthier than it because bank and waste in president and the seemed, its administration. leaks of documents some hundreds of Pell was among the by the papal butler millions of euros most vocal in calling — which he said had were tucked away in for reform, and was “severely” damaged particular sectional Holy See’s accounts and did named by Francis the to head the new reputation. not appear on the Secretariat for the In saying they balance sheet.”

Pell didn’t say Economy to oversee were a “heavy cross” the process. for Emeritus Pope that the euros were In the essay, Benedict XVI to unknown to Vatican Pell disparaged bear, Pell suggested authorities, just the Vatican’s that Benedict’s that they didn’t was feature into the past practices of resignation financial secrecy, indeed linked to balance sheet.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page B-3

WORLD NEWS LOCAL NEWS

Flu vaccine may be less Mugabe warns effective this winter suspected plotters

NEW YORK -- The flu vaccine may not be very effective this winter, according to U.S. health officials who worry this may lead to more serious illnesses and deaths.

Flu season has begun to ramp up, and officials say the vaccine does not protect well against the dominant strain seen most commonly so far this year. That strain tends to cause more deaths and hospitalizations, especially in the elderly.

“Though we cannot predict what will happen the rest of this flu season, it’s possible we may have a season that’s more severe than most,” said Dr. Tom Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at a news conference Thursday.

CDC officials think the vaccine should provide some protection and still are urging people to get vaccinated. But it probably won’t be as good as if the vaccine strain was a match.

Flu vaccine effectiveness tends to vary from year to year. Last winter, flu vaccine was 50 to 55 percent effective overall, which experts consider relatively good.

The CDC issued an advisory to doctors about the situation Wednesday evening.

CDC officials said doctors should be on the look-out for patients who may be at higher risk for flu complications, including

children younger than 2, adults 65 About a month later - after vaccine and older, and people with asthma, production was underway - health heart disease, weakened immune officials noted the appearance systems or certain other chronic new and different strain of H3N2. conditions.

“This is not something that’s been Such patients should be seen around before,” Frieden said. promptly, and perhaps treated Health officials said they immediately with antiviral weren’t sure if the new strain medications, the CDC advised. If would become a significant a patient is very sick or at high problem in the United States risk, a doctor shouldn’t wait for a this winter until recently. Lab positive flu test result to prescribe specimens from patients have the drugs - especially this year, shown that the most commonly CDC officials said. seen flu bug so far is the new strain The medicines are most of H3N2. Specifically, about 48 effective if taken within two days percent of the H3N2 samples seen of the inset of symptoms. They so far were well matched to what’s won’t immediately cure the illness, in the vaccine, but 52 percent were but can lessen its severity and not, the CDC said. shorten suffering by about a day, This news follows another Frieden said. problem recently identified by Among infectious diseases, flu CDC officials, involving the nasal is considered one of the nation’s spray version of flu vaccine. leading killers. On average, about At a scientific meeting at the 24,000 Americans die each flu CDC in October, vaccine experts season, according to the CDC. were told of preliminary results Nearly 150 million doses of from three studies that found flu vaccine have been distributed AstraZeneca’s FluMist nasal spray for this winter’s flu season. had little or no effect in children Current flu vaccines are against the swine flu strain that built to protect against three or was the most common bug making four different kinds of flu virus, people sick last winter. depending on the product. The Because this year’s version of ingredients are selected very early FluMist is the same formulation, in the year, based on predictions experts said it’s possible the spray of what strains will circulate the vaccine won’t work for swine flu following winter. this season, either.

One of the vaccine components However, CDC officials believe chosen last February was a H3N2 will be the most common flu certain strain of the H3N2 virus. bug this winter.

North Korea still a suspect in Sony attack despite denial

North Korea is a principal suspect in the cyber attack on Sony Pictures, a U.S. national security source told Reuters on Thursday, while a North Korean diplomat denied Pyongyang was behind the crippling hack.

The U.S. government’s investigation into the Nov. 24 attack is being led by the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office and the Hollywood studio is cooperating, a law enforcement source said.

The national security official, who spoke

on the condition of government expert fabrication targeting anonymity, said North on North Korea said the country.

Korea is not the only that circumstantial “My country publicly suggesting declared that it would suspect and it was too evidence international soon to definitively its involvement in the follow banning know who is behind Sony attack included norms the attack that exposed the fact that the North hacking and piracy,” a trove of internal data Koreans had been the diplomat said. and shut down the “very vocal about their The denial from North computer systems at unhappiness” about Korea regarding the Sony hacking came the entertainment arm the film. of Sony Corp.

A New York-based despite sources telling North Korea had North Korean diplomat, Reuters that cyber had vehemently denounced who asked to remain investigators the Sony film “The anonymous, told the found connections to of America North Korea in the Interview,” a comedy Voice movie about a plot broadcast network form of hacking tools to assassinate North on Wednesday that similar to those used Korean leader Kim linking North Korea by that country in Jong Un, scheduled for to the hacking of Sony previous attacks on Pictures’ computers South Korea. release on Dec. 25.

A former top U.S. was “another

HARARE, Zimbabwe -- President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe said Thursday that any top official or civil servant who plots against him will face dismissal and prosecution.

Mugabe spoke at a ruling ZANU-PF party congress at which he is expected to consolidate his grip on power by appointing a new set of loyalists, including his wife Grace.

“Those who committed the crime and corruption will be prosecuted once we get the evidence,” the 90-year-old leader said. “Even if you are a government minister, deputy minister or a civil servant, you will be fired.”

Vice President Joice Mujuru did not attend the meeting at which Mugabe spoke. Mugabe has sharply criticized Mujuru, which underscores that she is no longer a favorite to succeed him.

The state-run Sunday Mail newspaper has alleged that Mujuru was involved in an assassination plot against Mugabe, who has been in power since independence in 1980. Mujuru denies the allegations, saying she is prepared to defend herself in court.

Other officials who were not present during Mugabe’s speech included Didymus Mutasa, the presidential affairs minister, and Labor Minister Nicholas Goche. Mugabe supporters had said they would bar Mujuru and her political allies from attending.

One political analyst said the political maneuvering indicates that Mugabe wants to be president for the rest of his life and also seeks to protect the economic interests of his family.

“You challenge Mugabe, you are accused of treason,” said Pedzisai Ruhanya, who runs the Zimbabwe Democracy Institute, a research group.

Rugare Gumbo, a Mujuru supporter who was recently ousted as ruling party spokesman, said he had worked long enough with Mugabe to know his political tactics.

“If he wants to destroy someone, he will just say just say you want to assassinate him,” Gumbo said.

“This nonsense about us trying to assassinate the president - that’s a trick that we have known from the liberation struggle.”

Americans watch less TV, stream more NEW YORK -- Americans are turning away from live TV on the tube and tuning in to streaming services, a Nielsen report says.

That’s bad news for cable and satellite TV providers. Americans are increasingly watching TV shows and movies on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon streaming and other services. CBS and HBO have announced standalone streaming services as well.

About 45 percent of Americans stream television shows at least once a month, according to research firm eMarketer. That number is expected to increase to 53 percent or 175 million people by 2018, it says.

According to the Nielsen report, which came out Wednesday, the average daily time spent watching live TV fell 12 minutes in the third quarter to four hours and 32 minutes. That means it dropped nearly 4 percent to 141 hours per month.

Meanwhile, time spent watching streaming services jumped 60 percent to nearly 11 hours each month.

That’s still a small amount compared with live TV, but it is growing quickly.

“Content is still king, but consumers are shaping their own content-discovery experience, and the evolving media landscape has not lessened consumer demand for quality, professionally produced content,” Dounia Turrill, senior vice president of insights at Nielsen, said in a statement.

“What has changed is the number and reliability of new media available to viewers.” (equals)

Page B-4

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS WORLD NEWS

2014 on track for hottest year

LIMA, Peru - With their claims that man-made energy trapped in the atmosphere temperature data showing 2014 warming is not a big problem. by greenhouse gases from fossil currently tied for the hottest Most climate scientists reject fuels and other human activities year on record, the U.N. weather that idea. Michael Oppenheimer ends up in the oceans. Therefore, agency on Wednesday rejected of Princeton University said the heat content of the oceans is claims that global warming has the long-term warming trend is key to understanding the climate paused. combined with natural variations system,” the WMO said.

The World Meteorological that tend to be cyclical, with a While scientists are now Organization said the global period of lower-than-average 95 percent certain that the average temperature in January- warming followed by a period of temperature rise since the middle October was 0.57 Celsius (1.03 rapid warming. of the 20th century is mostly Fahrenheit) above average, the “Whether such a period is man-made, they can’t say with same as in record hot year 2010. about to begin, we cannot say but the same confidence how the The ocean temperature set the warm 2014 is a reminder that warming affects different parts of a new record in the nine-month the warming never stopped and the climate system, including the period, while land temperatures the long term trend is up, up, up,” frequency of tropical storms or were the fourth or fifth highest Oppenheimer said. hurricanes. since record-keeping began in Parts of the planet were

By Nov. 13 there had been the 19th century, the WMO cooler than average, including 72 tropical storms, well below the said in a report released at U.N. large areas of the U.S., Canada average of 89. climate talks in Lima and at its and central Russia. But most of the Arctic sea ice shrunk to the headquarters in Geneva. world experienced temperatures sixth lowest level on record in “The provisional information above average, with heat waves September, while Antarctic sea for 2014 means that 14 of the 15 in South Africa, Australia and ice grew to a record extent for the warmest years on record have Argentina in January and in large third straight year. all occurred in the 21st century,” parts of South America in October, The concentration in the WMO Secretary-General Michel according to the WMO assessment, atmosphere of carbon dioxide, a Jarraud said in a statement. which was based on two global key greenhouse gas, rose to a “There is no standstill in global data sets from the U.S. and one new high of 396 parts per million warming.” from Europe. last year, the WMO said, 42 Climate skeptics point Ocean temperatures were percent above the level before the to a perceived hiatus in the particularly high in the northern industrial revolution, when people temperature rise since 1998, an hemisphere from June to October. started burning fossil fuels for exceptionally hot year, to support “Around 93 percent of the excess energy.

Man allows himself to be swallowed alive by anaconda

US calls on Russia to calm turbulence in Ukraine LONDON -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said Thursday that Russia could rebuild its relations with the West “if it simply helps to calm turbulent waters” on its border with eastern Ukraine, where pro-Moscow separatists are fighting with Kiev forces.

Kerry spoke in Basel, Switzerland, at a meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which includes both the United States and Russia as partners. He met briefly - and separately - with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Georgian Foreign Minister Tamar Beruchashvili.

In his opening remarks, Kerry publicly cited “hundreds of Russian soldiers who fight and die” in Ukraine - alluding to what the U.S. says is proof of Moscow’s direct involvement in the fighting. U.S. officials believe an estimated 400 Russian troops have been killed in Ukraine this year.

In their private half-hour meeting, Kerry and Lavrov spoke briefly about the situation in Ukraine, and Kerry urged Lavrov to have Moscow “return to serious discussions” for a cease-fire, a senior State Department official who sat in on the discussion told reporters.

Lavrov did not respond to a reporter’s question about the Russian troop deaths in Ukraine.

OSCE has sought to help broker an enduring cease-fire in eastern Ukraine, where it’s believed Moscow is supporting the separatists with weapons and troops in their quest to secede from Ukraine’s central government.

Kerry called it a “very turbulent year” and noted that when the 57-state OSCE met last year, Ukraine protesters were in the throes of demanding a new government in Kiev.

“They were warmed by a simple desire - to live in a country with an honest government,” Kerry said at the start of the OSCE meeting. Over the last year, however, the fledgling leadership in Kiev has been beset by separatists in the eastern provinces of Donetsk and Luhansk, and has seen the Crimea region vote to secede.

Bill Cosby Sued for Alleged Sexual Molestation

Rosolie in his “snake-proof” suit In a shocking act, an American naturalist allowed himself to be swallowed alive by an anaconda in the Amazon forest.

American naturalist Paul Rosolie filmed himself getting eaten by an anaconda for a highly-anticipated television event to be aired this Sunday on Discovery Channel.

Rosolie is a naturalist, author, and award-winning wildlife filmmaker who has specialised in the western Amazon for nearly a decade.

This past summer, something that would Rosolie donned a special absolutely shock suit to let a 25-foot people.” Rosolie, a New snake, weighing over Jersey native, spent 60 400 pounds, eat him in a days hiking through a dangerous performance, rain forest in Peru with the Daily Mail reported. a team of about a dozen “I didn’t want to people searching for the stress the snake much. right anaconda to take I wanted to make part in the stunt.

In the process, the sure that the suit was smooth and wasn’t team also started the going to hurt the snake,” first scientific study of Rosolie said. anacondas in the wild, “I really wasn’t taking down the weight, scared. We tested this length and sex of each suit and worked on this snake they came across.

It took 12 people with experts so we knew I was going to be safe,” fighting in water above their heads to catch the Rosolie said.

“I wanted to do 25-foot 400-500 pound

anaconda.

Herpetologists were on site to make sure the snake was in good health throughout its short captivity.

In order to attract the snake’s attention, Rosolie doused himself in pig’s blood and imitated movements of the anaconda’s typical prey.

The snakes usually hunt wild pigs, deer, capybaras and caiman.

“Experiencing that kind of power was worth everything, because it was just amazing,” he said.

A woman has filed a suit against Bill Cosby, claiming that he gave her alcohol, took her to the Playboy Mansion and sexually molested her when she was a teenager in the 1970s.

In the suit, filed Tuesday in the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles, Judy Huth of Riverside, Calif., alleges that in 1974, when she was 15, she and a friend, who was 16 at the time, met Cosby where a movie was being filmed in Los Angeles.

According to the suit, he allegedly invited them to meet him at his tennis club the following Saturday.

When they arrived, Cosby allegedly brought them to a house, where he gave them alcohol.

He allegedly then took them to the Playboy Mansion, where, in a bedroom suite, he “proceeded to sexually molest her by attempting to put his hand down her pants and taking her hand and performing a sex act on himself without her consent,” the suit says.

“This traumatic incident, at such a tender age, has caused psychological damage and mental anguish for [Huth] that has caused significant problems throughout her life,” the suit says.

The suit seeks unspecified compensatory, punitive and exemplary damages.

ABC News has tried to reach Cosby’s representatives for comment on the suit, but they could not be reached.

More than a dozen women have come forward in recent weeks, accusing the comedian of drugging and sexually assaulting them. Cosby, 77, has never been criminally charged stemming from any of the sex-abuse allegations, many of which date back to the 1970s and 1980s.

A statement released last month by Cosby’s attorney, Marty Singer, called the recent allegations against Cosby “unsubstantiated, fantastical stories.”

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Straight No Chaser feat. Kristen Bell

“All About T hat Bass” Because you know I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass Yeah, it’s pretty clear, I ain’t no size two But I can shake it, shake it Like I’m supposed to do ‘Cause I got that boom boom that all the boys chase And all the right junk in all the right places I see the magazine workin’ that Photoshop We know that ain’t real C’mon now, make it stop If you got beauty, beauty, just raise ‘em up ‘Cause every inch of you is perfect From the bottom to the top Yeah, my mama she told me don’t worry about your size She says, “Boys like a little more booty to hold at night.”

You know I won’t be no stick figure silicone Barbie doll So if that’s what you’re into then go ahead and move along Because you know I’m All about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass Hey!

I’m bringing booty back Go ahead and tell them skinny ladies that No, I’m just playing. I know you think you’re fat But I’m here to tell ya Every inch of you is perfect from the bottom to the top Yeah my mama she told me don’t worry about your size She says, “Boys like a little more booty to hold at night.”

You know I won’t be no stick figure silicone Barbie doll So if that’s what you’re into then go ahead and move along Because you know I’m All about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass Because you know I’m All about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass Because you know I’m All about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass, no treble I’m all about that bass ‘Bout that bass ‘Bout that bass, ‘bout that bass Hey, hey, ooh You know you like this bass

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Cayman Islands chief immigration officer suspended amid investigation

Linda Evans Cayman Islands Chief Immigration Officer Linda Evans was put on required leave – suspended with pay – late Monday, the Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed.

According to the Caymanian Compass newspasper, in a statement released on Tuesday afternoon, the ministry stated that Ms. Evans had been placed on required leave with immediate effect, in relation to a “number of allegations of misconduct by the CIO, which require a full investigation.

The Cayman Compass has confirmed from multiple government sources that the suspension,

which is expected to last at least 30 days, is in connection with an investigation into an award of Caymanian status and other administrative matters.

Ms. Evans has been suspended under provisions of the government’s Personnel Regulations, which state: “The appointing officer (with the approval of the Head of the Civil Service if the period of leave is to be more than 30 days) may require an employee to go on Required Leave where the appointing officer deems it to be in the public interest for the employee to do so, and that leave shall be leave on full pay for such period as the appointing officer deems necessary.”

According to the ministry, the required leave provision was invoked “to allow the allegations to be investigated quickly and thoroughly.”

Ms. Evans could not be reached for comment by press time.

Her suspension marked the second time in a month that a senior immigration official was removed from her job in connection with an investigation.

On Monday, the Compass reported that Immigration’s director of boards and work permits, Kimberley Davis, was placed on required leave on Nov. 7. Mrs. Davis declined to comment in relation to an investigation into alleged administrative infractions. She remained on paid leave Tuesday.

Ministry officials did not state whether the two suspensions were connected in any way.

A third top immigration official, Deputy Chief Officer Garfield Wong, was charged with traffic offenses in relation to an incident late last year. Mr. Wong was not suspended and remains on the job.

Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Bruce Smith will lead the department in Ms. Evans’s absence, ministry chief officer Eric Bush confirmed.

Meeting with outspoken US politician refused BAHAMAS Consul General Ricardo Treco is refusing to discuss the current issues affecting immigration and human rights in the country with Daphne Campbell, the outspoken Florida State Representative, unless she withdraws her call for a boycott of the Bahamas.

Ms Campbell claimed the Bahamian diplomat has said in a letter he will not meet with her until she publicly withdraws her call for a boycott. She said they had been due to meet on Monday at the Bahamas Consulate Office in Miami and that she would continue to stand by her comments.

According to the Nassau Tribune, Ms Campbell, who has Haitian, Bahamian and Turks and Caicos roots, has been very vocal and critical about the new immigration policies that were implemented by the Department of Immigration on November 1.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration Fred Mitchell said no meeting between the Consul General and Ms Campbell was scheduled. “She was told to apologise or no meeting would take place,” he said, adding she can go “fly a kite”.

According to a statement issued by Ms Campbell yesterday she was informed on November 7 by a fellow Representative that Mr Treco wanted to set up a meeting

with her and that she had called and written a letter to the Consul General’s office.

Three days later, Ms Campbell held a press conference about the deportation of children of Haitian descendants born in The Bahamas.

She and other former stateless Haitian descent constituents in her district believe that “it is wrong to penalise children for their parent’s birth place, and almost every Haitian in the Bahamas has a family member in the United States, particularly in Miami.”

Ms Campbell also protested against the “inhumane treatment and the need for justice for the innocents” outside the Bahamas Consulate General Office on November 14. Two days later further contact was made with Ms Campbell by her fellow Representative regarding a request for a meeting with Mr Treco. However, in a letter dated November 25, which was forwarded to Ms Campbell’s office, Mr Treco withdrew from the meeting he had initiated.

In his reply, Ms Campbell claimed Mr Treco made it seem like she had initially scheduled the meeting. Her statement said that he had claimed that Ms Campbell called for a boycott of the Bahamas without familiarising herself with the country’s new immigration policies.

“Representative Campbell and other human right advocates know that the immigration policies are a direct violation of the fundamental concept of the Constitution of the Bahamas because it violates Chapter 3, Article 17, which says “no person shall be subjected to torture or inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment,” the statement read.

Regarding the earlier statements she had made Ms Campbell said she would continue to stand by them. “The issues that are going on in the Bahamas are bigger than race, culture, or national origin. There are human rights that are being violated and as long as that continues, I will not rest until I see justice,” her statement continued.

Ms Campbell listed a slew of questions she would have asked Mr Treco on Monday on the specicifcs of the new policies, the violation of human rights and allegations of mistreatment.

Ms Campbell also claimed that there has been a report to the US Department of States regarding relations with the Bahamas which states that the Bahamian detention centres failed to meet international standards and that “anti-Haitian prejudice and resentment regarding Haitian immigration was widespread”.

Caribbean Celebrates Abolition of UK Air Passenger Duty for Kids

The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) is celebrating the abolition of the Air Passenger Duty (APD) for children 12 years of age and under starting in May 2015 as announced today

by British Chancellor George Osborne. Additionally, Chancellor Osborne promised to eliminate the APD for children 16 years of age and under starting May 1, 2016.

“We welcome today’s announcement by Chancellor Osborne about the elimination of the Air Passenger Duty on children as this alleviates costs for family vacations and essentially cuts the taxes in half for a family of two adults and two children,” said Jeffrey S. Vasser, CHA, director general and CEO of CHTA. “The timing of the abolition of the tax will further benefit families as vacations in the Caribbean are reduced for summertime travel,” Vasser added.

Today’s announcement adds to the good news Chancellor Osborne released earlier this year with regards to reforming the current four-band system for the APD to a two-band system starting April 1, 2015.

Under the new two-band system all long-haul flights (over 4,000 miles) will be moved into band B, which means UK customers traveling to the Caribbean will pay the same tax as if they were traveling to the United States.

According to the Budget: From April 1, 2015, the tax on long-haul flights between 4,001 and 6,000 miles will be reduced by £14 per person, while those over 6,000 miles will be cut by £26. With today’s announcement, a family of four (two adults, two children) could save over £140 starting May 2015.

The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) facilitates the full potential of the Caribbean hotel and tourism industry by serving members’ needs and building partnerships in a socially responsible and sustainable manner. CHTA is the voice of the Caribbean hospitality industry for the development of the region in the highly competitive and sophisticated environment of international tourism. Today, tourism is widely recognized as a pivotal industry in the economy of the region - and CHTA functions as the common denominator for this industry in a region of diverse nationalities, languages and styles, identifying mutual problems and marshaling the resources of the active and allied members to devise solutions. CHTA represents all facets of the hospitality industry with more than 600 member hotels and over 300 allied members.

Antigua grants citizenship to 150 investors ST JOHN’S, Antigua – An “aggressive”

approach has been credited as the reason for about $50 million being pumped into the economy through the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) since the Antigua & Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) government was elected in June.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne told OBSERVER media that, to date, about 150 new citizenships have been granted under the CIP. “We have been very aggressive about promoting the programme,” he said, adding that the goal is to receive about US $10 million a month through the CIP. “The country is in a very precarious financial position, so we need to grow revenues aggressively in order to meet our obligations, including salaries and wages,” he said.

As the government continues to push the citizenship programme, it has formed a partnership with a high-end residential development in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

People who purchase villas in the Ajhman Uptown project in UAE will be offered Antiguan and Barbudan citizenship.

“So that every time they sell a unit, and clearly individuals that buy these units will be wealthy individuals … they add another US $200,000 dollars and then they will be accorded Antiguan citizenship under the CIP,” the PM outlined.

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FBI raids Puerto Rico highways authority

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation raided the offices of Puerto Rico’s Highways and Transportation Authority (HTA) on Wednesday, taking documents and arresting the organization’s treasurer for alleged bribery in programs using federal funds.

The treasurer, Silvino Cepeda Ortiz, was arrested at his place of work “without incident” the U.S. Attorney’s office said.

The raid was the second against one of Puerto Rico’s indebted public corporations in little over a week. On Nov

25, the FBI seized documents and computer equipment at the offices of the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (ASA).

No arrests were made as a result of that raid.

What appears to be increased enforcement activity by federal authorities against Puerto Rico’s public corporations comes as the commonwealth tries to raise up to $2.9 billion in a bond deal that would repay $2.2 billion that HTA owes the Government Development Bank (GDB).

HTA Executive Director Javier E. Ramos Hernandez

said the HTA has suspended corporations, the electric Cepeda Ortiz from his post. power authority PREPA, is “We won’t tolerate expected to default on over $9 actions that go against the billion in total debt.

The HTA has over $7 public well-being,” Ramos Hernandez said.

“We billion in debt, according to always support all state and the GDB. federal initiatives to combat Puerto Rico’s governor corruption wherever they Alejandro Garcia Padilla, in a speech on Sunday may lead.” referred to the Cepeda Ortiz could not night, immediately be reached for “irresponsibility” of loans comment and did not respond made to the HTA. Last week to a message sent to his the governor threatened to shut down the island’s Facebook page.

Puerto Rico is struggling transport system - including with a slow economy and the HTA - because of a dispute over $70 billion in total debt. over increasing a tax needed At least one of its public to help fix HTA’s financial

Barbados celebrates 48th anniversary of Independence BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Prime Minister Freundel Stuart is encouraging Barbadians to face the current challenges with a “calm, mature and disciplined approach.”

In his message to mark the 48th anniversary of Independence from Great Britain, being celebrated today (Sunday), Stuart noted that Barbados, like most other countries in the Caribbean has been facing “unrelenting economic challenges.

“These challenges have accentuated the need to restructure our economy in order to make it more viable. We do not enjoy any special dispensation under the laws of international economics. Barbados is not exempt from the challenges and crises which other countries and societies have to face.”

He said as part of a globalised world which dispenses benefits as well as burdens, Barbadians must “steel ourselves to meet those burdens and, by dint of our hard work and sacrifice, to eventually overcome them. That is the true essence of Independence.

“As we work our way through present challenges, let us not confront life as a disordered jumble of hopes and fears. Our present

time is not the culmination of all time! We will get past present challenges not by panic-stricken hurry and worry but by a calm, a mature and a disciplined approach to what we now face.”

He also stated that 2015 promises to be a better year for Barbados than the year 2014.

“That is as it should be and would be an appropriate reward for the sacrifices and the patient endeavour of the people of this nation … as we embark on our 49th year, let us resolve to see what we can do for Barbados; what we can give back to Barbados.”

According to Stuart, socially, economically and politically Barbados is a more advanced and developed country.

“Today our people are better educated than at any other time in our country’s history, thanks to the expansion of opportunity at the nursery, primary, secondary and tertiary levels of our education system.”

Concerning housing, he said Barbadians are better housed than they were in 1966 and significantly larger numbers of Barbadians have had access to modern housing, complete with greater access to water and to electricity.

On the labour front, he said, “workers are much safer at the workplace today as a result of the combined efforts of successive governments and robust but responsible trade unions. A panoply of modern labour legislation now enriches our statute books.”

Stuart also pointed to the opportunities available to young people as well as the aged and disabled.

“Today, the vulnerable among us benefit from the existence of an extensive, highly sophisticated and reliable social safety net to which they can turn when necessity requires that they do so.”

He said inspite of achievements related to the economy the nation still has some way to go.

“Not everyone has benefited from the Independence effort to the extent he or she would have wished. Some have experienced hurt at some time or another during the last 48 years. But that is not surprising for, in every part of the world, at any time of the day, the week, the month or the year, there are people who are hurting.

The challenge facing our society is to ensure that the numbers of those who are hurting are kept to the barest minimum,” he said.

problems.

“We are now confronting the consequences of the irresponsibility of these loans that were taken, situations so serious that it threatens to shut the operations of the HTA and important public works projects.”

Bonds of Puerto Rico’s Highways and Transportation Authority (HTA) traded sharply lower on Wednesday.

Bonds maturing in 2015 and carrying a 4 percent coupon traded with an average price of 88.50 cents on the dollar, down from 94.998 when the bonds last traded on Nov. 21.

Jamaica Prime Minister’s office to review flow of information to media KINGSTON, Jamaica – An incident involving two television journalists at a media briefing on Wednesday, has prompted the Communication Department of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), to review arrangements on how information is passed on to the media.

In a statement on Thursday, Director of Communication at the OPM, Huntley Medley, made reference to the incident in which a microphone was taken from one journalist and the audio cut off from another after the journalists were asked to permit others to ask questions.

According to Medley, media reports on the incident have not conveyed the position and views of the Communication and Public Affairs Department.

He said the Department has advocated for the briefing to be held more regularly and for there to be “fulsome, honest, open communication with the media and the public at all times”.

He pointed out that there are basic procedures that have always guided Media Briefings and press conferences at Jamaica House.

While stating that he will not attempt to muzzle journalists in the performance of their duties, he said journalists also have a duty to act responsibly, fairly, and to recognize and respect the rights of others, including their colleagues.

Meanwhile, the Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) said the journalists were fulfilling their responsibilities to get information in the public interest.

The PAJ says in displaying their persistence in asking questions on a matter of significant national interest they were doing what any good journalist would.

Haiti opposition meets with US ambassador

Port-au-Prince - US Ambassador to Haiti Pamela White met with opposition leaders seeking an end to the rule of President Michel Martelly.

The closed-door meeting, arranged at the request of the activists, was held on Tuesday in the party offices of Haiti’s social democrat Fusion party, and lasted nearly one hour.

“We told Mrs. White in no uncertain terms that the current crisis is one of Haiti’s making, and it is up to Haiti to find a solution,” opposition leader Jean Andre Victor told reporters after the meeting.

It came just days after thousands of angry protesters fanned out

across the country Friday to demand the resignation of the Haitian leader.

Haiti has been mired in political crisis for three years over the failure to hold long delayed municipal and legislative elections.

If elections are not held before January 12, the legislature will be automatically dissolved and Martelly can rule by decree.

Demonstrators for Martelly and Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe to step down, accusing them of mismanagement.

Recent talks initiated by the government aimed at resolving the crisis before the end of the year were boycotted by opposition US Ambassador to Haiti Pamela White (C) arrives for a meeting with members of opposition in Port-au-Prince, on December 2, 2014 parties.

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Paradise Beach Nevis To Welcome Guests in January 2015

Paradise beach Paradise Beach Nevis, the newest luxury development on the charming Caribbean island of Nevis, will officially open its doors in January 2015. To celebrate the occasion, the boutique

villa resort is welcoming guests with a special starting rate of $1,000 per night.

Paradise Beach, the island’s only villa option located directly on the

beach, offers guests the intimacy of a posh private home with all the service of a five-star resort. Guests have seven exquisitely designed three and four bedroom villas to choose from - all inspired by a sophisticated blend of Balinese and Caribbean culture. Each villa features hand-woven thatched roofs with 20-foot vaulted ceilings, privacy walls enclosing lush gardens plus an outdoor dining pavilion and a waterfall pool overlooking the Caribbean and neighboring St. Kitts or beautiful gardens.

Renowned designer Adam Tihany created the villas to blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, and new contemporary interiors add a unique elegance with clean lines and eclectic elements. Each villa has two king bedrooms, one or two queen bedrooms, a full entertainment kitchen, open living space and romantic outdoor showers. Guests are catered to with concierge and butler service and a private chef can be arranged to whip up a romantic dinner under the stars or a full party spread. The villas are all air-conditioned, but, sliding, floor-

Robert De Niro appointed Special Economic Envoy for Antigua

Antigua PM Gaston Browne (left) and Robert DeNiro.

ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Prime Minister Gaston Browne said, in a statement, he has appointed actor Robert De Niro as a Special Economic Envoy for Antigua & Barbuda.

The International film star was appointed on Friday, soon after he made commitments to a US $250 million hotel investment to redevelop the defunct K-Club resort in Barbuda.

De Niro signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) for concessions from the government of Antigua & Barbuda on the project.

The actor and filmmaker, who is said to be a regular visitor to Jumby Bay on Antigua’s Long Island, is reportedly partnering with Australian billionaire James Packer.

Little details have been revealed and OBSERVER media has not yet been able to confirm whether De Niro and Packer have completed a

to-ceiling Balinese glass walls can completely open to create an authentic island setting capturing fresh tropical breezes.

To be the first to experience Nevis’ newest boutique villa resort with a special opening rate of $1,000 per night for a three-bedroom garden villa, please call (869) 469-7900. Book now through January 26, 2015 for stays from January 15 to 30, 2015. There is a three-night minimum and rates do not include taxes, service charges or gratuities.

Ideal for a family or group of friends, Paradise Beach Nevis offers guests a luxurious villa experience in a gorgeous oceanfront setting. The villas are a tropical oasis for privacy and relaxation, but guests interested in venturing out have access to the resort’s stretch of white-sand beach and private beach bar as well as nearby restaurants, sight-seeing attractions, tennis and golf as well as Nevisian cultural activities and events.

Paradise Beach - formerly known as Villa Paradiso - is managed by Richard Williams and Associates.

Barbados is Least Corrupt Country in The Caribbean

Barbados is the least corrupt country in the Caribbean and among the top-20 cleanest countries in the world, according to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2014 which was released world-wide on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2014.

The CPI showed Barbados, with a score of 74, tied at No. 17 with United States of America, Hong Kong and Ireland on the list of the least corrupt countries in the world.

The only countries ahead of Barbados were Denmark which retained the number one spot as the least corrupt country in the world, followed by New Zealand (2), Finland (3), Sweden (4), Norway (5), Switzerland (6), Singapore (7), Netherlands (8), Luxembourg (9), Canada (10), Australia (11), Germany (12, Ireland (13), United Kingdom (14),Belgium (15) and Japan (16).

The CPI ranks countries and territories based on how corrupt their public sector is perceived to be.

A country or territory’s score indicates the perceived level of public sector corruption on a scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). This year’s index includes 175 countries and territories.

After Barbados, the least corrupt countries in the Caribbean were: The Bahamas at No. 24 with 71 points; St. Vincent at No. 29, with 67 points; Puerto Rico at No. 31 with 63 points; Dominica at No. 39 with 58 points; Cuba at No. 63 with 46 points; Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago tied at No. 85 with 38 points; purchase of the resort’s lease agreement from the Dominican Republic at No. 115 with 32 points, and Guyana at No. 124 with 30 points.

Italian Mariuccia Mandelli.

Haiti and Venezuela brought up the rear The government’s statement, however, said on the list of most corrupt countries in the Caribbean the hotel will be renovated and expanded into an region, tied at No. 161 with 19 points. According to exclusive 5-star resort. the CPI, the most corrupt country in the world is Browne said the project is still attracting Somalia, with 8 points. other investors and he hopes De Niro can use his Commenting on the 2014 report, José Ugaz, celebrity status to attract more famous people to Chair of Transparency International, said: “Countries Antigua & Barbuda.

Browne said he hopes to have the deal at the bottom need to adopt radical anti-corruption completed within thirty days and for construction measures in favour of their people. Countries at the top of the index should make sure they don’t export to begin within the next 12 months.

Ambassador Gilbert Boustany reportedly corrupt practices to underdeveloped countries.”

Noting that corruption is a problem for all countries, executed the agreement.

In order for the project to go ahead legally, the CPI stated that a poor score is likely a sign of it must first receive the approval of the Barbuda widespread bribery, lack of punishment for corruption and public institutions that don’t respond to citizens’ people. needs.

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As a part of our mandate in our continued efforts to bring about an awareness and to promote Human Rights education and awareness, the Human Rights Commission began conducting education sessions to incorporate in the secondary Schools in Providenciales. The educational training entails the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by the TCI constitution and the rights of the child guaranteed by the Convention on the Rights of the

Child.

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School

Our objective was to set a foundation of basic human rights knowledge to be incorporated into the school curriculum from the 2014/2015 school year. By educating the children we are helping the children develop intercultural and ethical understanding, building their social skills, motivating them to learn, bringing about their realization of their rights as children; hence creating a safer school and

empowering them to become active citizens.

We commenced each session by displaying a video about the “Story of Human Rights” which explained the history of how human rights came about. It prompted the students to think that if human rights are inherent to all human beings why are so many persons in the world deprived of their fundamental rights daily. The presentation was led by the Director of the Commission Mrs. Doreen

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l Visits Quelch-Missick and Staff Donessia Gardiner and Kabatha Smith. Provoked thoughts and discussions We started the school presentations in Providenciales on November 12th 2014 with the Secondary Schools of Wesley Methodist School, Maranatha Academy and Clement Howell High School consecutively. All students showed an interest in what was discussed and were very interactive in the lesson. Next on November 24th and 25th the

Commission visited the Doris Robinson Primary School in Middle Caicos where the group was the smallest but most enjoyable. They displayed a high interest in the topic and a strong drive to learn. In North Caicos we visited the Raymond Gardiner High School and Adelaide Oemler Primary School in Bottle Creek and Hubert James Primary School in Kew. Each school was receptive in the information presented and their students were very enthusiastic

when asked engaging questions. The Hubert James Primary School Students displayed this quality most of all.

The Human Rights Commission was thrilled with the way all the schools received the presentation of Human Rights and will continue on with the School in South Caicos, Grand Turk and Salt Cay at the beginning of next year’s term.

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Jamaica clamps down on toy guns

FALMOUTH, Trelawny — The police displayed a large number of toy guns seized from a store in this town and pointed to the danger of them being used to commit crimes, especially at night.

At the same time, Superintendent Wilford Campbell, commander of the Falmouth police division, said that arrests should be made in connection with the seizure of the contraband, as they are uncustomed goods.

“We are currently conducting an investigation into how and by what means these guns would have come into the island, as they are regarded as uncustomed goods. So at the end of that investigation we will be making some arrests or prosecutions where this is concerned,” he told journalists at a news conference at the Falmouth Police Station.

According to Superintendent Campbell, the police will be conducting operations in other stores in the

Some of the toy guns seized by the police from a store in Falmouth Falmouth area as they will not allow the sale of toy guns, firecrackers or any other goods that are restricted by Customs.

He said that the toy guns could be used by criminals to stage robberies and other illegal activities due to their close resemblance to real weapons.

“We are concerned that if, by any chance, these uncustomed goods get into the hands of the wrong persons there could be lots of problems as they

Bermuda delays new work permit policy A work permit policy that It was touted as a means to encourage Government said would create jobs — businesses to hire more Bermudians and that the Opposition has criticised while cutting red tape. as hurting Bermudian workers — has Sen Fahy’s remarks came on the same been delayed, according to Home day that Shadow Immigration Minister Walton Brown called for the deadline to Affairs Minister Michael Fahy.

Speaking during the Senate’s be delayed. motion to adjourn, the Minister said Mr Brown said Bermudian workers the draft policy needed to be reworked in international business felt they were in the wake of extensive feedback from being hit harder by redundancies than work permit holders. the public.

“We are making this call so that “Obviously we will not make the December 1 deadline,” Senator Fahy a number of issues can be addressed added, saying he was “not happy with to ensure Bermudians have genuine where we are” in the draft policy. opportunities for jobs,” Mr Brown “That is a sign of true consultation,” said in yesterday’s statement. “In its current state, this new policy will mean the Minister concluded.

The policy, which was presented for less employment opportunities for public feedback on October 1, included Bermudians in international business, the proposed Bermuda Employment the erection of a glass ceiling for Bermudians, and significantly fewer Visa or BEV. Exempt companies that qualified opportunities for musicians.”

Mr Brown said he had requested for the visa would be able to get one work permit free non-Bermudian last week to meet with the Minister, worker for every five Bermudian staff. but nothing had been scheduled.

relate to criminal activities,” Superintendent Campbell said.

“Because they bear the resemblance of a firearm, and especially if they are used at nights in robberies, break-ins, etcetera, certainly the victim would not hesitate to give in, or the fear factor as it relates to the commission of the offence could not be contemplated in any different way than to believe that they are being held at gunpoint,” he argued.

Superintendent Campbell also said that for the festive season the majority of the cops in the division have been relieved of their administrative duties and have been assigned to the streets.

“We in the Trelawny division would have formulated our Yuletide Strategic Plan,” he said. “The plan basically encompasses our activities for the season, which would see us adopting a 80/20 ratio; meaning 80 per cent of our staff would be mobilised on the streets, and the 20 per cent would be engaged in administrative and CIB functions.”

He said the seizure of the toy guns was evidence of the Yuletide Strategic Plan already reaping success.

“Resulting from that, our vigilance would have increased and, so, acting on intelligence, we would have conducted a special operation on one of those stores in Falmouth, which would have resulted in the seizure of these toy guns,” Superintendent Campbell said.

Man killed in Bahamas plane crash that hospitalized his wife

A plane crash in the Bahamas Tuesday morning claimed the life of a 77-year-old male passenger from Wenham and left his wife, 74, hospitalized with injuries along with nine other people who were in the chartered plane.

Selden M. Loring, Jr. and his wife Aila Tuulikki Loring, both Wenham residents, were aboard the Navajo Chieftain operated by Ferguson Air when the small plane lost power and crashed in the water about 550 feet off the coast of New Providence, the largest island in the Bahamas which also contains the capital city of Nassau and an international airport.

Chief Superintendent Paul Rolle of the Royal Bahamas Police Force said the plane just departed from the island of Eleuthera — the Lorings owned a home there -- that morning when the pilot apparently alerted officials that he was having problems and tried getting the plane close to

shallow water before it lost power.

Divers from a nearby aquatic sports business were first on the scene to help rescue the survivors, authorities said. The other passengers, including an infant, did not suffer serious injuries but were all taken to a local hospital.

Alia Tuulikki Loring remained hospitalized with scrapes and bruises, according to family members who traveled from New Jersey to Nassau after receiving news of the accident.

They said the couple had been planning to catch a flight home to Massachusetts.

The Lorings moved to The Maples, a senior living community off Route 1A in Wenham, four years ago from the town of Lexington where Selden Loring grew up. He worked in the auto industry at Boston area dealerships and the couple had two children along with several grandchildren.

Jamaica Prime Minister’s office to review flow of information to media KINGSTON, Jamaica – An incident involving two television journalists at a media briefing on Wednesday, has prompted the Communication Department of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), to review arrangements on how information is passed on to the media.

In a statement on Thursday, Director of Communication at the OPM, Huntley Medley, made reference to the incident in which a microphone was taken from one journalist and the audio cut off from another after the journalists were asked to permit others to ask questions.

According to Medley, media reports on the incident have not conveyed the position and views of the Communication and Public Affairs Department.

He said the Department has advocated for the briefing to be held more

regularly and for there to be “fulsome, “It must be acknowledged that the that officials who are properly able to honest, open communication with the organisers of press conferences must respond to the issues are present at have the right to allow other journalists such briefings. media and the public at all times”.

He pointed out that there are basic present to ask questions, and it must “We also maintain that although procedures that have always guided be within their right to ask journalists procedures must be followed, overall, there must be adequate time allowed Media Briefings and press conferences asking questions to yield.”

The association added that the process for questions and answers. This has at Jamaica House.

While stating that he will not attempt to at the press briefing on Wednesday was not always been the case.” muzzle journalists in the performance not handled professionally. “We call on The Portia Simpson Miller led of their duties, he said journalists also the Office of the Prime Minister to find administration has also been chastised have a duty to act responsibly, fairly, ways to manage its press conferences by the PAJ for its lack of interaction and to recognize and respect the rights other than to have officials physically with the media. of others, including their colleagues. wresting microphones from journalists. “At her swearing in ceremony on Meanwhile, the Press Association of This is not acceptable, and we urge a January 5, 2012, Prime Minister Portia Jamaica (PAJ) said the journalists review of its procedures in this regard.” Simpson-Miller said, “The Jamaican were fulfilling their responsibilities to The PAJ also expressed concern about people have sent a clear message. the frequency of post-Cabinet press They want a more accountable and get information in the public interest.

The PAJ says in displaying their briefings, and “the inadequacy of transparent government which persistence in asking questions on a the answers to questions of national consults them; and, they should expect matter of significant national interest interest provided at many such press nothing less” and she promised that her administration would be “marked they were doing what any good conferences”.

The PAJ said the OPM must ensure by greater openness in Government.” journalist would.

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TECHNOLOGY

Samsung asks court to throw out $930M damages in Apple case

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd asked a U.S. appeals court to toss out an order that it pay Apple Inc $930 million for infringing on iPhone patents to make its Galaxy line of smartphones and tablets.

The hearing at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit was the latest fight between the two smartphone makers, which have been litigating around the world for three years, each accusing the other of infringing patents in making smartphones and other mobile devices.

They have essentially fought to a draw in about a dozen countries, but in August announced that they had

agreed to withdraw all patent lawsuits phones did not carry an Apple logo, against each other except in the United did not have a “home” button like States. an iPhone and had speaker slots in In this case, Samsung asked the different places than the Apple phones.

“Apple was awarded Samsung’s court to throw out a decision from the U.S. District Court for the Northern total profits on those (Samsung) District of California which had found phones, which was absurd,” she said, that Samsung infringed Apple patents arguing that it was akin to awarding and ordered it to pay the iPhone and entire profits on a car because of an iPad maker $930 million, a reduction infringing cup holder. from an earlier award of $1 billion.

Arguing for Apple, William Lee Kathleen Sullivan, a lawyer with of the law firm Wilmer Hale disagreed.

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan “This is not the cup holder,” he said.

LLP who represents Samsung, argued He argued that the $930 million that the lower court erred in deciding verdict was the right decision. that the design and trade dress patents “What Samsung is actually asking were infringed because the Samsung you to do ... is to substitute yourself for

Judge Koh and the jury,” he said.

The three judges on the panel did not indicate which side they supported, and did not indicate when they would rule.

Apple and companies that make phones using Google’s (GOOGL.O) Android software, such as Samsung’s top-selling Galaxy, have filed dozens of infringement lawsuits against one another around the world to protect their technology. Apple and Google Inc’s Motorola Mobility unit, which has since been purchased by Lenovo (0992.HK), agreed in May to settle all smartphone patent litigation between them.

Starbucks eyes booze, food and technology to boost US growth

Sandy Roberts pours samples of Starbucks Reserve Sun Dried Ethiopia Yirgacheffe coffee during the company’s annual shareholders meeting in Seattle, Washington Starbucks Corp, aiming to give cooling U.S. traffic a jolt, on Thursday announced it will add beer, wine, and evening snacks to thousands of domestic cafes, widen lunch offerings and roll out mobile ordering.

Such efforts are part of the world’s biggest coffee chain’s plan to broaden its appeal as a destination with consumers who are spending more

time shopping online rather than in malls and Main Street stores.

The company, which is hosting its biennial investor meeting in Seattle, said it would lay out its five-year plans to double U.S. food revenue to over $4 billion by expanding food choices, particularly during lunch hours.

Starbucks plans to reap about $1 billion in new

sales from the addition of evening menus, including beer, wine and food, at nearly 3,000 of its 11,900 cafes in the United States.

The company also will detail the launch of a new mobile ordering and payment system that it says will make getting a coffee fix even more convenient. That same technology will underpin deliveries in select U.S. markets next year.

Additionally, in coming months, it will debut express stores, coffee trucks and upscale “reserve” shops, which will offer premium specialized coffee sourced from small farms.

Starbucks’ U.S.-dominated Americas unit had a traffic gain of 1 percent in the latest quarter, versus the 5 percent jump in the year-earlier period.

An increase in sales of food, such as croissants and breakfast sandwiches, has helped offset slowing traffic in the last three quarters.

Chief Executive Howard Schultz in January warned that a “seismic” shift to online shopping was taking a bite out of traffic to U.S. brick-and-mortar stores.

That, executives said, contributed to a moderate slowdown in traffic in December 2013.

Traffic softened earlier this year than last and the weakness is expected to continue through the holiday season, said Steven Barr, who leads PwC’s U.S. retail and consumer practice.

The chain, which has 21,000 shops worldwide serving 70 million customers weekly, forecast fiscal 2019 revenue of nearly $30 billion, up from $16 billion in the fiscal 2014 ended Sept. 28.

Plans for the Asia-Pacific region include doubling its cafes in China to over 3,000 by 2019.

UK Treasury Chief levies tax on multi-nationals UK Treasury chief George Osborne has unveiled plans to crack down on multinational tax avoiders as he sought to deflect criticism for failing to meet his budget targets.

In one of his last major speeches before May’s general election, Osborne trumpeted the fact that Britain is one of the world’s fastest growing developed economies at a time when much of Europe is barely growing.

The independent Office for Budget Responsibility raised its prediction for

U.K. growth this year to 3 percent, from the 2.7 percent prediction in March. And though growth is expected to slow to 2.4 percent next year, the U.K. economy will still be performing better than most of its peers.

Despite the solid growth performance, the U.K.’s public finances have not improved as much as Osborne anticipated when he laid out the Conservativeled government’s deficitreduction strategy in June 2010. And that it seems is due to the failure of tax revenues to pick up

as anticipated, possibly because many of the jobs created are low paid.

While the budget deficit is falling, the OBR said the shortfall will be 91.3 billion pounds ($143.2 billion) in 2014-15 or 2.7 percent of GDP. Next year, it’s projected to fall to 75.9 billion pounds, or 2.2 percent of GDP. In 2010, Osborne had laid out the hope of clearing the deficit by the time of the election.

With the deficit proving harder than planned to deal with, Osborne announced plans

for an “economic activity tax” on multinationals.

Dubbed by the media as the “Google Tax,” it levies a 25 percent charge on profit generated in Britain, regardless of where companies are based. It is expected to raise 1 billion pounds over 5 years.

“Some of the largest companies in the world, including those in the tech sector, use elaborate structures to avoid paying taxes,” Osborne said.

Osborne also announced a reform of the levies on house purchases, saying the

changes to so-called stamp duty will benefit 98 percent of homebuyers. The reform is seen as a move to outflank Labour’s so-called “mansion tax” on expensive homes.

Labour’s economic spokesman, Ed Balls, slammed Osborne’s prescription say the main beneficiaries have been the rich.

“For all his strutting, for all his preening, for all his claims to have fixed the economy, he promised to make people better off, working people are worse off,” he said.

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LOCAL NEWS BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY

Man jailed Emergency repairs for Facebook for cracked phones revenge porn

A man has been jailed after to protect victims whose lives and breaking a “revenge porn” law reputations have been upended by a introduced in California last October. person they once trusted,” said state Noe Iniguez posted a photograph of his prosecutor Mike Feuer. ex-girlfriend naked to her employer’s “This conviction sends a strong Facebook page alongside derogatory message that this type of malicious comments. behaviour will not be tolerated.”

The 36-year-old is the first person Revenge porn laws are intended to be convicted under the new law. to make it easier for prosecutors to gain Thirteen US states have enacted convictions for internet-based offences revenge porn laws over the past two without having to appeal to preyears. England and Wales are also existing laws governing harassment making it a criminal offence. and other offences.

However, it remains a contentious California enacted a relatively issue. tough law, requiring prosecutors to California’s revenge porn law bans prove perpetrators had intended to the posting of nude or sexual images of cause distress at the time of their an individual, including selfies, with actions. the purpose of causing emotional But other states have attempted distress. to take a broader approach.

Los Angeles-based Iniguez posted Arizona tried to ban all posts the photograph of his victim in March, showing anyone “in a state of nudity accompanied by a message that called or engaged in specific sexual activities” her a “drunk” and a “slut” and urged unless the person pictured had given her employer to fire her. He used an their explicit permission. alias in an attempt to hide his identity.

This prompted a backlash from free The woman had previously secured speech campaigners, who suggested a restraining order against him after it would have prevented newspapers receiving abusive text messages publishing pictures of abused naked following the break-up of their four- prisoners at Abu Ghraib. year-long relationship in 2011.

A judge subsequently halted Iniguez was sentenced to one year enforcement of Arizona’s law until it in jail, 36 months of probation and was rewritten. instructed to attend domestic violence England and Wales’ new Criminal counselling after being found guilty Justice and Courts Bill is set to make of breaking the revenge porn law and “the distribution of a private sexual violating a restraining order. image of someone without their consent “California’s new revenge porn and with the intention of causing them law gives prosecutors a valuable tool distress” illegal.

Grand Theft Auto V pulled

by Australian retailer LOS ANGELES -- Target Australia is removing “Grand Theft Auto V” from store shelves after more than 40,000 people who say the video game encourages players to murder women for entertainment signed an online petition asking the retailer to stop selling it.

The decision is the latest in a long line of controversies sparked by the 17-year-old video game series that casts players as car-stealing criminals.

“We’ve been speaking to many customers over recent days about the game, and there is a significant level of concern about the game’s content,” said Jim Cooper, Target Australia’s general manager of corporate affairs, on Wednesday.

“We’ve also had customer feedback in support of us selling the game, and we respect their perspective

on the issue.” perspective, offering A petition posted Nov. 29 a closer glimpse at on Change.org called for gameplay, including sex Target Australia to stop acts that were previously selling “GTA V” because obscured. it “makes a game of Strauss Zelnick, bashing, killing and chairman and CEO of horrific violence against Rockstar Games’ parent women.” company, Take-Two The latest installment in Interactive Software Inc., Rockstar Games’ action- called the Australian adventure series centers retailer’s decision to on a trio of bank robbers stop selling the game in Los Santos, a tongue- disappointing. in-cheek rendition of Los “`Grand Theft Auto Angeles. The open-world, V’ explores mature third-person game allows themes and content players to participate in similar to those found a several optional virtual in many other popular activities, including and groundbreaking visiting strip clubs and e n t e r t a i n m e n t hiring prostitutes, as properties,” Zelnick well as playing tennis said.

“Interactive and riding a roller entertainment is today’s coaster. most compelling art “GTA V” originally form and shares the debuted in 2013 for the same creative freedom PlayStation 3 and Xbox as books, television and 360. A new edition for movies. I stand behind the PlayStation 4 and our products, the people Xbox One released last who create them, and month adds the ability the consumers who play to play in a first-person them.”

Needing a phone fixed quickly was not a “First-World problem”, iCracked said A US firm is launching an drop-in services where they can emergency repair service for broken repair phones or tablets in a matter or damaged smartphones in the UK. of hours, often more cheaply than Increasingly services are iCracked. springing up offering quick fixes for ‘First-World problem’ the annoyance of cracked screens or Websites such as Quick Fix broken home buttons.

Mobile also offer repairs within 24 New entrant, iCracked, is hoping hours, with prices averaging £30 its model of sending technicians to £50 for a broken screen. customers, sometimes within an Marketing manager Sean Barber hour, will help it win market share. was dismissive of iCracked.

But critics questioned what “I’m not sure why these big impact it would have. companies come from the US and The firm already operates in 250 make such big news. There are US cities and as the name suggests, already plenty of others in the UK focuses mainly on iOS devices but already offering this service.” also repairs some Samsung models.

He compared iCracked’s The prices it will charge for fixing launch with that of Uber, the liftdevices will vary but will average sharing service which has proved about £57, according to the firm. controversial to the taxi industry.

“For most people, their phone “I don’t think iCracked is is an extension of themselves, so going to disrupt the market like when it breaks it can have a huge Uber did. You still have to book an impact on the way they go about appointment with a technician and their everyday lives,” said founder A in that time, a customer could have J Forsythe. come to a service like ours and had The firm began life in 2010 at it fixed,” he said. a US university where Mr Forsythe Mr Forsythe admitted that was a student. some may question the need for an “I started handing out flyers emergency service for iPhones, but around campus and people would said that demand was there. call me and I’d fix their device,” he “We’re seeing hundreds of told the BBC. requests each day and we are Growth came fast and the firm expecting London to be one of our now employs 1,000 technicians busiest cities. across the US. “I wouldn’t say that it is limited Its UK launch will initially to a First World problem.” be focused in London with 30 Apple did not wish to comment technicians which it hopes to expand on the service but on its website it to 100 next year. advises customers to contact their Customers can call out a fixer carrier or Apple to arrange service either via the iCracked website or for damaged devices. Users can also its app. They then arrange a time for take broken phones into stores. them to come to their home, office or There is also a growing trend local coffee shop to repair the device. for do-it-yourself services such as There is a burgeoning industry the Restart Project - which gives springing up around smartphone amateurs advice on how to extend repairs. High street shops offer the life of their gadgets.

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Driverless cars set to be tested in four English cities

The four English locations picked to test driverless cars have been named.

Greenwich, in south-east London, and Bristol will each host a project of their own, while Coventry and Milton Keynes will share a third.

The decision was announced by the quango Innovate UK, after George Osborne’s Autumn Statement.

The chancellor also announced an additional £9m in funding for the work, adding to the £10m that had been announced in July.

The businesses involved will add further funds.

Bristol will host the Venturer consortium, which aims to investigate whether driverless cars can reduce congestion and make roads safer.

Its members include the insurance group Axa, and much of its focus will be on the public’s reaction to the tech as well as the legal and insurance implications of its introduction.

Greenwich is set to run the Gateway scheme. This will be led by the Transport Research Laboratory consultancy and also involves General Motors, and the AA and RAC motoring associations. It plans to carry out tests of automated passenger shuttle vehicles as well as autonomous valet

Milton Keynes is set to begin tests of the Lutz self-driving pods next year parking for adapted cars.

In addition, a self-drive car simulator will make use of a photorealistic 3D model of the area to study how people react to sharing the

Sony makes experimental epaper watch

Sony has developed a watch made from e-paper as part of an initiative to experiment with the use of the material for fashion products.

The Fes Watch has a minimalist, monochrome design but falls short of the features offered by smartwatches.

However, the battery of the e-paper watch could last far longer with an estimated 60 days of use.

The device has been described as “retro and cool” by gadget expert Stuart Miles from Pocket-lint.

“One of my predictions for next year is that fashion is going to play a huge part in shaping the tech industry.

“Having a phone that’s big and square is one thing, but if we’re actually wearing things, it has to look good.”

The watch face and straps have an e-paper display - comparable to the technology used in e-book readers such as Amazon’s Kindle.

It means the watch can alternate between several different styles of watch face and strap design.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Sony had deliberately kept the development of the watch low-key, opting to use a spin-off division called Fashion Entertainments to work on the device.

Fashion Entertainments ran a crowdfunding campaign to fund the watch’s creation, the WSJ reported, in an attempt to gauge the public’s

interest in the concept.

It raised 3.5 million yen ($30,000; £19,000).

“We hid Sony’s name because we wanted to test the real value of the product, whether there will be demand for our concept,” a person involved in the project told the newspaper. A spokeswoman for Sony confirmed to the BBC that Fashion Entertainments is a division of company’s New Business Creation Department, and was working on a number of e-paper prototypes.

Other e-paper experiments being worked on by Fashion Entertainments include shoes, bow-ties and glasses.

One drawback of using e-paper rather than, for example, liquid-crystal displays (LCD) is a limitation on possible features due to the limitations of what e-paper can display.

However, Mr Miles said he did not envision that being too significant a drawback for e-paper wearable technology.

“Look at traditional watches now, they just tell the time and we’re happy with that,” he said, noting that one of the most popular smartwatches on the market, the Pebble, uses e-paper.

Sony has not provided a date for the Fes Watch’s release.

driving of a vehicle with its computer.

“The combination of TRL’s independent expertise; robust, reliable testing protocols and driving simulation facilities alongside the

diverse and high calibre qualities of our consortium means we can safely demonstrate automated vehicles to build acceptance and trust in this revolutionary technology,” said the firm’s chief executive Rob Wallis.

Milton Keynes and Coventry will host the UK Autodrive programme.

This involves Ford, Jaguar Land Rover and the engineering consultancy Arup among others, and will test both self-drive cars on the road as well as self-driving pods designed for pedestrianised areas.

Part of this group’s work will be to develop the technologies that will need to be built into roads and the surrounding infrastructure to aid vehicle navigation.

“Our plan with the practical demonstration phases is to start testing with single vehicles on closed roads, and to build up to a point where all road users, as well as legislators, the police and insurance companies, are confident about how driverless pods and fully and partially autonomous cars can operate safely on UK roads,” said Tim Armitage from Arup.

The tests will last from between 18 to 36 months and begin on 1 January.

Microsoft shareholders approve $84million CEO pay AN FRANCISCO -- Microsoft in the right direction. shareholders gave a lukewarm vote of “He probably would have taken the approval Wednesday for CEO Satya job for less, so from that regard they Nadella’s $84 million pay package, are certainly not exhibiting frugality,” after an investor advisory group said at a time when Nadella is overseeing the company was paying him too much. a reorganization that includes cutting Nadella’s pay package puts him among 18,000 jobs, said Colin Gillis of BGC the highest paid CEOs in the country Financial. But he also pointed to the for last year, although his pay as a first- 30 percent increase in Microsoft’s stock year CEO falls short of the $378 million price this year and said, “I think that’s that Apple awarded to Tim Cook when the primary metric most people care he became CEO in 2011. Oracle CEO about. If you think about the billions in Larry Ellison was awarded stock value that’s been created, this is a tiny options and other pay valued at $67.3 fraction of that.” million last year. Former Microsoft Most of the meeting was CEO Steve Ballmer was paid only $1.3 devoted to a recap of Microsoft’s million in 2013, but he held shares business strategy and a discussion worth nearly $16 billion. about diversity. Executives heard a An advisory vote on Microsoft’s presentation from civil rights leader executive pay program won approval Jesse Jackson, who has been urging from more than 72 percent of the tech industry to hire and promote shareholder votes cast, the company more women and minorities. Nadella said after its annual shareholder repeated an earlier pledge to make meeting on Wednesday. ISS, which that a priority at Microsoft. While the reviews proxy measures for many large Redmond, Washington company has companies and criticized Nadella’s previously disclosed some workforce pay, has said a vote below 70 percent statistics, Nadella also promised to is an indication that a company should release more detailed figures this review its policies. The vote fell short month from a report that employers of the average support level of 91.5 must file annually with the federal percent for executive pay measures government. at other companies tracked by ISS Nadella’s pay largely consists affiliate, ISS ExecComp Analytics. of stock grants that won’t vest before By comparison, more than 92 2019, and Microsoft has said they are percent of votes supported the an incentive for future performance, company’s slate of directors, who ran since his stock will increase in value without opposition. if the company does well. Nadella was That doesn’t mean investors are paid a base salary of $918,917 and a overly concerned, according to Wall $3.6 million bonus, along with stock Street analysts, who say Nadella is grants valued at $79.8 million. generally viewed as moving Microsoft

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BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY LOCAL NEWS FUN & GAMES

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LOCAL SPORTS

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DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

Jam Turk, Police Score Wins in Provo Cricket League

Cricketers having a moment of silences for Donald Walters and Australia’s Phil Hughes

By Michael C. Pereira The Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association T20 Cricket Tournament sponsored by HAB Group, preliminary round was completed on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2014 at The Down Town Ball Park, Providenciales.

On Saturday 29th November 2014, Jam Turk dashed KB Homes hopes of continuing their winning streak by handing them a defeat. KB Homes won the toss and batted closing on 158 runs for 7 wickets from 20 overs.

The ever consistent Marlon Graham, top-scored with 67 runs which include 11x4 and 1x6 and Gareth Butler weighted with 35

Ian Heath

runs, 4x4.

Bowling for JamTurk Ian Heath generated a lively pace and snatched 5 wickets for 26 runs from 4 overs.

Douglas Brown took 2 wickets for 32 runs from 4 overs.

In response, JamTurk who at one stage was staring defeat rallied to reach the needed total for 7 wickets in 19 overs. Much to the disappointment of KB Homes; Dane Ritchie led the way with an unbeaten 49 runs which included 4x4 and 4x6 and Sidue Hunter added 35 runs, 3x4 and 1x6.

Douglas Brown chipped in with 19 runs 2x4 and 1x6.

Bowling for KB Homes Marlon Graham claimed 3 wickets for 16 runs from 3 overs. Ajay Vyas pickedup 2 wickets for 20 runs from 4 overs.

Ian Heath was named Player of the

Match.

Meanwhile on Sunday 30h November, 2014, Police asserted their dominance by comprehensively beating the Jaguars. The lawmen won the toss and decided to take first strike and amassed a formidable 208 runs for 7 wickets before their allotment of 20 overs expired.

Chabbie Charlery set the stage with a brutal attack on the Jaguar’s bowling, racing to 72 runs which was laced with 7x4 and six towering 6’s.

He was ably supported by his opening partner Kareem Jack with 33 runs, 5x4 and a rapid 38 runs from Damian St Ange which contained 5x4 and 1x6.

Bowling for Jaguars Smijo Devassy with 2 wickets for 21 runs from 4 overs and Walter Henry with 2 wickets for 26 runs from 4 overs were

Chabbie Charlery

the main wicket takers.

When Jaguars batted they appeared lethargic and lack-lustre and never seemed to be in the hunt, and were restricted to 142 runs for 9 wickets from 20 overs. Naga Kuthalingham top-scored with 23 runs and 5x4.

Bowling for the Police, Jerry Grant and Ira Baptiste captured 3 wickets a piece for 26 runs from three and 4 overs respectively.

Chabbie Charlery was named Player of the Match.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association fraternity had a moment of silence for former local Cricketer Donald Walters and international Cricketer Phil Hughes.

We extend our sympathies and condolences to their families.

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CARIBBEAN

LOCAL NEWS

SPORTS

Lara counsels trust-building to defuse crisis

Former West Indies captain Brian Lara has called the recent pull-out by West Indies from the India tour should be treated as a “watershed” moment in Caribbean cricket. He said the lesson to be learned for both the WICB and the players is to “communicate” better with each other. Lara also called for the WICB and its administrators to stop wanting to be the “stars” and warned that in the absence of trust West Indies cricket would continue to be “problematic.”

“Any issues like that could be handled a lot better, but I believe the key component, which avoids situations like that, which settles situations like that amicably is communication,’ Lara told ESPNcricinfo, speaking at the Sydney Cricket Ground. “And the West Indies Cricket Board and the players and all its people, communication is one thing that’s really lacking in West Indies cricket. Things are allowed to spiral out of control, and then there’s the trust issue - ‘why would I trust in this critical moment’.

“Players in India playing cricket without a contract (wondered), ‘how do I know that you’re looking after my interests’. Yes, you may make decisions

that hurt a situation as we’re seeing now, leaving India might not have been a good idea in terms of even guys’ personal careers. But we’ve got to stop airing our laundry in public, and we have to try to handle issues. I believe the only way that can be done is if we really use this moment as a watershed and try as much as possible to engage.”

Admitting that he would always be “biased” towards the players considering his own battles with WICB during his playing days, Lara said the administrators could not solely blame Dwayne Bravo and his men for abandoning the India tour in October. “The fact of the matter is I am very player-biased because I’ve been a player in the past and I’ve Brian Lara experienced bad relationships with my cricket board. If you come and tell me tour, had commenced its work and the players should be blamed, hold up, would submit the report on December I am one who understands as a player 13. “While it is regrettable that the all the fractures at the board level situation into which we are enquiring and how it is handled, and I’m very occurred, the Task Force recognizes the sympathetic to the players.” responsibility to West Indies cricket Lara’s comments come a day and is honoured to have been chosen after the WICB sent a media release for this assignment. We commit to indicating the three-man task force, pursuing the facts and circumstances set up to investigate the circumstances in a fair and unbiased manner and to behind the premature end to the India allow for all the critical matters to be

FIFA to Strengthen Monitoring and Prevention of Discrimination in Football

Jeff Webb The Anti-Racism and Discrimination Task Force, chaired

by FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb, met last week at the Home of FIFA to discuss the strategy for strengthening education and sanction measures within football.

The Task Force was presented a concrete action plan to reinforce monitoring and evidence-finding mechanisms to tackle discriminatory incidents in football under FIFA’s jurisdiction, including the appointment and training of antidiscrimination officers for upcoming tournaments.

“It is shocking to see how we still face cases of discrimination in football on a regular basis,” said Webb.

“The appointment and training of anti-discrimination officers as well as the publication of a handbook of good practices will be two important steps in the fight against racism and all forms

of discrimination. Both measures send out a concrete message. Now we need the full support from clubs, member associations, NGOs and campaign groups.”

Further measures in the fight against discrimination include the publication of a handbook of good practices that will be distributed to FIFA member associations in 2015, guiding them to foster diversity and anti-discrimination in football in their respective countries. The handbook will include information and best practices on policy, education, sanctions and cooperation with civil society partners.

“The Anti-Racism and Discrimination Task Force and Jeffrey Webb, as its Chairman, have the full support of FIFA and its administration,” said FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke, emphasizing the need for strong measures in order to achieve concrete results.

“The topics that were discussed today are very relevant, starting with the practical measures that need to be taken against racism and discrimination – and the Chairman brought to us today very concrete elements that we may hold ourselves accountable to,” said Tokyo Sexwale, politician, anti-Apartheid activist and founder of Global Watch.

The Task Force also agreed on the importance to use the 2018 FIFA World Cup as a platform to raise awareness on the issue and showcase FIFA’s zero tolerance policy against

any form of discrimination.

“It was an interesting discussion about concrete measures to combat racism and discrimination.

Together with FIFA and the other stakeholders, we are developing a plan that will encompass all areas concerning the fight against discrimination,” said Alexander Djordjadze, Deputy CEO of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Local Organizing Committee.

The Task Force involves representatives from diverse stakeholder backgrounds such as United Nations, NGOs, players, coaches, referees, media, legal and Member Associations, among others.

Discrimination is an issue that impacts heavily on the image and enjoyment of the game.

“It was a very mature and intense debate, which is a good sign: it means that the Task Force is getting beneath the skin of the issues that face us. This bodes well in terms of getting a clear direction to football around the globe, which in the end is what FIFA is about,” stressed Piara Powar, CEO of Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE).

The Task Force was also handed for their review and feedback the first edition of CONCACAF Diversity Handbook, which gathers educational information and practical resources from leading international organizations to promote inclusiveness within the football family.

highlighted and ventilated,” Michael Gordon, the task force chairman, said.

Former West Indies fast bowler Wes Hall and Richard Cheltenham are the other two members on the panel.

Although all the West Indies players signed the mandatory tour contracts to play the Test series in South Africa, their lawyers continue to negotiate with the WICB and West Indies Players’ Association. The air of distrust, which was highlighted in bold by Bravo in his various e-mail exchanges with WICB president Dave Cameron and WIPA president Wavell Hinds, continues to remain. According to Lara Cameron and his team did not have any choice but to regain the trust of the players.

“The board and administrators have to look at themselves as not the stars. Sometimes personalities clash, but you have players who take the spotlight and have to understand their responsibilities, and the players need to know they’re supported, and everyone is working hand in hand together.

Unless that happens I believe we’re going to be a laughing stock ... this is one issue, you never know what’s going to happen next.”

South Africa not taking West Indies for granted JOHANNESBURG, South Africa Captain Hashim Alma says South Africa do not intend to underestimate West Indies when the series against the tourists from the Caribbean get underway here in two weeks.

The eighth-ranked West Indies come into the series with six losses from their last 10 Tests, but Amla believes Denesh Ramdin’s men would provide a good contest for the Proteas.

The first test match of their tour begins on December 17 in Centurion.

“There’s definitely no need to be complacent against the West Indies. They are a team that has a lot of explosive power, they play colourful, exciting cricket,” Amla said in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

“There’s no reason for us to hold them in any lighter esteem. We’ve got a good squad and the strength of our team is concentrating on what we do well.”

South Africa have come off a 4-1 ODI series loss away against Australia last month.

However Amla is optimistic that their 50-over struggles against the Aussies will not return to haunt them against their West Indian rivals.

“I don’t think any of the baggage [from Australia] will follow us,” he said.

“Test cricket is a largely different format from one day cricket. Being at home with the team we have — an almost developing Test team — I don’t think that series will impact us.”

The second test starts on Boxing Day, December 26th; the final test is due to start January 2nd at Capetown while three T20s and five One Day Internationals (ODI) will follow

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SPORTS

Kobe Bryant to soon pass Jordan on top-scoring list

Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant sits right below Michael Jordan on the all-time scoring list. As things stand, Bryant has 32,165 career points while Jordan is at 32,292.

Ask Bryant about these numbers and he might offer a look of bewilderment. Bryant contends that he has no idea how many points he needs to surpass Jordan in scoring, according to Adrian Wojnarowski.

“I don’t even know how many points he has,” Bryant said. “I don’t even care.”

Bryant only trails Jordan by 127 points for the time being. Based on his average of 25.8 points per game, he should hit that number in the next five or six games. But, as Bryant explained to Wojnarowski, he won’t be focused on the numbers when that day comes.

“The process of how I got here moves me,” Bryant said. “Never the accolades. It’s the years that I’ve put in, the work. That’s the thing now for me: the work. Every year I play, it’s about winning championships. That’s what I’m supposed to do. What else am I supposed to do? Not about this guy has that, that guy has that. …This is my job.”

Kobe Bryant has described comparisons between himself and Michael Jordan as ‘crazy’ as he closes in on the NBA legend on the all-time scoring list.

Bryant is set to surpass Jordan’s mark this month and move into third spot behind basketball icons Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone.

The 36-year-old, who currently has 32,195 points to his name, has had to deal with comparisons to Jordan throughout his career with the now Charlotte Hornets owner a senior

figure in the game at the time when Bryant started out as a rookie.

In an interview with Bleacher Report, Bryant admits to be seen up there with the six-times NBA and MVP champion, 19-years on from his debut season, as a real honour.

‘I’ve always welcomed the comparison to Michael if it’s in competitive spirit or in terms of records that I may set,’ Bryant said.

‘I’ve always been cool with that. To be in that kind of company is… is…is…crazy, for lack of a better term.

Rare air.’

The pair have built a good relationship on-and-off the court since they first met, with Jordan giving his then-young protege advice on what it takes to succeed at the top Asked what the former Chicago Bulls star has helped him with the most, Bryant prefers not to share that priceless information.

‘There are a lot of ‘em, actually.

‘To get that kind of information, to me it’s like climbing Mount Everest Jordan (left) and Bryant have built a good relationship ever since the latter entered and speaking to a Buddha at the the NBA as a rookie top of the mountain. You want that information? You’ve got to climb that mountain yourself.’

During his own illustrious career, Bryant has won five NBA titles and two MVP crowns of his own, with his style of play on both ends of the floor reminiscent to Jordan.

And the shooting guard admits Jordan’s aggressive nature in scoring is one thing he has always admired.

‘It takes a lot of work, a lot of conditioning, skill and thought to be that aggressive and that assertive.

He was relentless, man. He just kept coming after you.

Funeral of Phillip Hughes Prompts Outpouring of Grief

Hundreds attended Hughes’ funeral

Thousands of Australians, including Prime Minister Tony Abbott, took part in a national outpouring of grief Wednesday during the funeral of Phillip Hughes, a 25-year-old cricket star who died last week after being hit by a speeding ball in what was depicted as a freakish accident.

Such was Hughes’s global status that Narendra Modi, the prime minister of cricket-obsessed India, posted a message on Twitter referring to the “Heart-rending funeral in Australia.”

“Phil Hughes, we will miss you,” he wrote. “Your game & exuberance won you fans all over!

RIP.” The funeral was held in Hughes’s

hometown, Macksville, about 300 miles north of Sydney, but fans gathered in the thousands across the nation to follow the proceedings on large screens at some of the country’s best-known cricket grounds. Schools and businesses shut early, news reports said.

The breadth and depth of emotion reflected Australia’s passionate attachment to cricket, a national sport played with fierce competitiveness at home and overseas. But the moment made headline news as far afield as Britain, where cricket and its forerunners date back centuries.

A campaign on social media, where people posted images of their cricket bats under the hashtag

#putoutyourbats, drew a huge response.

Even though he was wearing a safety helmet, Hughes was hit on the neck during a domestic game Nov. 25 and died in an induced coma Thursday after heavy bleeding to the brain.

At a time of broader concerns about safety in sports, his death inspired a debate about the design and role of helmets and the practice of so-called bouncers, when bowlers pitch the ball short at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour, forcing it to rear up toward the batter’s upper body.

Sean Abbott, 22, who bowled the fatal ball, was among the mourners, news reports said.

Florida hires Colorado State’s McElwain as coach

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- After working though a buyout issue, Jim McElwain is leaving Colorado State to become Florida’s next head coach.

The Gators announced the hiring Thursday at the same time McElwain started a team meeting with players and assistants. Florida said McElwain agreed to a six-year deal that will

average $3.5 million annually. He made $1.5 million this year at Colorado State.

McElwain accepted the job after working with Colorado State to reduce his $7.5 million buyout. Florida will pay the Rams $3 million over six years. McElwain will pay $2 million over time. The Gators also will pay

Colorado State $2 million for a game in Gainesville between 2017 and 2020.

“Coach McElwain was someone we targeted from the beginning of the search,” Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley said. “The more we worked through the process and did our due diligence, coupled with our meeting and conversations with him

and those around him, it was obvious he is the right person to lead the Florida Gator football program.”

The Gators already are on the hook for about $8 million to pay fired coach Will Muschamp and his staff.

Florida also has about $87 million in on-campus projects underway, with roughly $60 million of that raised.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2014 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2014

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Ray Rice wants second chance Ray Rice wants a second chance it just happened to be on video, but we in the NFL and hopes that any team are truly sorry to the people that are interested in signing him will “look really going through it. You know, it’s deeper into who I am.” a real problem. And I know when the Rice, who was reinstated to the time is right, I know my wife wants to NFL on Friday after winning his appeal help, I know I want to help.” of an indefinite suspension, spoke The Rices had a June meeting about his future in football during an with Goodell, who initially issued a interview that aired Tuesday on NBC’s two-game suspension before increasing “Today” show. it to an indefinite suspension after the Rice is now eligible to sign with release of the in-elevator video. any NFL team. But the former Ravens Janay Rice told the “Today” show running back may have difficulty in a different interview that Goodell Ray Rice told “Today” that even if he never plays football again, “I would adapt into life and I would finding another team following his wasn’t being honest when he said high-profile domestic violence case, sacrifice more” so his wife can have a better future her husband was “ambiguous” about which has gained significant national hitting her. attention since a video of the incident for his wife in the event that he never that the priority is to have the three“I know for a fact ... that Ray told was publicly released in September. plays in the NFL again. time Pro Bowler signed with a team by the honest truth that he’s been telling When asked what it would take for “If I never play football again, I’ll this weekend. from February,” Janay Rice told the a team to sign him, Rice said potential be honest with you, I would adapt into Rice was suspended indefinitely “Today” show in an interview that was suitors would have to understand that life and I would sacrifice more so she Sept. 8 for violating the NFL’s broadcast Monday. he and wife Janay “had one bad night.” can have a better future,” he said. personal conduct policy after a video As for Goodell, she said: “I can’t “They would have to be willing At least four teams have expressed of him hitting Janay, his then-fiancée, say he’s telling the truth.” to look deeper into who I am and interest in Rice, multiple league sources emerged and began widely circulating.

Ray Rice said he understands realize that me and my wife had one recently told ESPN NFL Insider Adam The Ravens released Rice that day. inquiries into whether prior instances bad night, and I took full responsibility Schefter. Two of those teams are the The incident occurred in February of domestic violence had occurred with for it,” Rice said. “And one thing about Colts and Saints, although neither inside an elevator at an Atlantic City, his wife. my punishment and everything going team is expected to pursue him, sources New Jersey, casino.

“I truly understand that, and along with anything that happened told Schefter.

Rice said during the interview one thing you learn is that, we weren’t is that I’ve accepted it. I went fully The NFC West-leading Cardinals that he is “horribly sorry for everything in a perfect relationship,” he said. “No forward with it. I never complained, or also are not considering signing Rice, a that I have put my family through.” relationship is perfect. We’ve had I never did anything like that. I took league source told ESPN’s Ed Werder.

“We all just want our lives back,” arguments, but when you talk about full responsibility for everything that I Despite the hip injury suffered this he said. “I realize football was one thing, abuse, that’s something that we know did, and the only thing I can hope for past Sunday by starting running back but now I realize that the amount of that we’d never cross that path. ... and wish for is a second chance.”

Andre Ellington, the Cardinals have people we’ve affected, the amount of (The incident in the elevator) was Accompanied by Janay and her “no interest” in Rice, according to the families we’ve affected, that domestic just very uncharacteristic of myself. parents during the interview, Rice also source. violence is a real issue in society.

I take responsibility. That was very said he would be willing to “sacrifice” A source close to Rice told Werder “We could take our one bad night, uncharacteristic.”

Tiger’s new deal biggest in years WINDERMERE, Fla. -- Tiger Woods’ sponsorship deal with Hero MotoCorp is his biggest new endorsement contract in five years and is expected to pay the golfer $6 million to $8 million annually.

Woods’ agent, Mark Steinberg, would not disclose exact figures Wednesday but said media reports out of India, where Hero is based, that put the number at $8 million per year were “in the ballpark.”

Steinberg said the deal is for four years and does not include a stipulation that Woods play in the India Open.

Woods also will not have the company’s logo on his golf bag or his shirt.

Earlier this year, it was announced that Hero would take on the title sponsorship role of Woods’ annual Tiger Woods fundraising event, the World Challenge, which this year has moved to Isleworth, Tuesday, during photo opportunities near Orlando. with him seated on a motorcycle, that The personal deal with Woods was he’s never ridden one and “I don’t plan announced Tuesday. to start now.”

“I believe he is going to add a Munjal would not comment on huge amount of value to the brand the India reports but told Forbes, “It is Hero, which clearly is going global in Tiger Woods after all.” its intent and with its product brand,” Woods’ biggest endorser remains said Pawan Munjal, the vice chairman, Nike, which he has been with since he CEO and managing director of Hero, turned pro in 1996. Woods signed a who played with Woods in the pro-am new deal with Nike in 2013 that was Wednesday. believed to be paying him in excess of The company is huge in India, $20 million per year. with sales of 6.3 million motorcycles The latest deal with Hero is and scooters in 2013-14. Munjal said his biggest new endorsement since the company plans an expansion into losing several sponsors in the wake of Europe in 2015 and the United States his 2009-10 personal issues that kept in 2016. him from the game for several months.

“Taking the brand out there into Accenture and AT&T were among new markets where Hero is not a the companies to cut ties, and he has known brand, we believe that Tiger’s parted ways in recent years with EA brand, Tiger’s recognition, Tiger’s Sports. attributes will also lift and make In addition to Nike and Hero, the brand as recognizable as Tiger,” Woods also represents Rolex, NetJets, Munjal said.

MusclePharm and Kowa, a Japanese That, despite Woods joking company.

Rio matches London sponsorship sales RIO DE JANEIRO - Organizers He said any shortfall in reaching of the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro a balanced operating budget might said Wednesday they have matched be made up for with a “bit of higher the domestic sponsorship revenues for revenue in ticketing.” He said budget the 2012 Games and expect to surpass details were continually being adjusted.

London’s total with almost two years to Olympic host cities are bound by go. contract to pay for any cost overruns or Renato Ciuchini, the chief deficits. commercial officer of the Rio Games, Other major income sources for said Rio has already earned 2.6 billion the operating budget are licensing, reals ($1 billion) in sponsorship sales, merchandising and a large contribution amid fluctuating exchange rates . from the Switzerland-based London raised about $1.1 billion International Olympic Committee. from domestic sponsors.

Rio has landed six major sponsors “We matched the numbers of including: Banco Bradesco, Bradesco London already,” Ciuchini said.

Seguros, Embratel, Claro, Nissan and Ciuchini said Rio had reached the government-run postal service about 85 percent of its local sponsorship Correios. But it has failed to get sales goal despite a slumping economy, any major sponsors from five major the distraction of a recent presidential industries: airlines, utilities, oil and election, and corruption allegations gas, mining and agribusiness. Many of aimed at Petrobras, Brazil’s state-run those are key industries in Brazil. oil giant. He termed the recent World Ciuchini said negotiations in Cup “a good thing for us” in stimulating those industries “haven’t closed” but he sales. said no new major sponsors were likely Despite being poised to overtake to be added.

London’s domestic sponsorship, Rio’s “We don’t believe they will come sales may still fall short. as tier one (sponsors) here,” he said.

Organizers expected them to “Today we are doing very well without make up about 50 percent of the $3 them.” billion operating budget for running Reports have suggested that some the games. companies have balked and what have Rio is also spending separately been seen at Rio’s steep sponsorship about $20 billion - a mix of public prices. Organizers do not disclose what and private money - to build sporting sponsors pay, but Rio reportedly got off and urban infrastructure for South to a fast start by landing $500 million America’s first Olympics and and meeting early targets.

Paralympics.

Ciuchini said that Rio will have Brazil spent about $15 billion on signed 19 new contracts this year with this year’s World Cup. smaller sponsors.

Ciuchini’s numbers suggest local “If we were that expensive, sponsorship sales will come in below how could we sign 19 contracts in 12 the 50 percent target. months?” he asked.

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