TCWN January 6 -12, 2018 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 32 | No. 01 | January 6-12, 2018

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PERSON OF THE YEAR

FROM PIPE DREAMS TO PODIUMS PLUCK, PROWESS AND TRIUMPHS SEE SPORTS VETERAN RITA GARDINER NAMED WEEKLY NEWS PERSON OF THE YEAR 2017 PAGE

BEACH ACCESS ROW SPARKS NATIONAL OUTRAGE 4 PAGE 

GRAND TURK AIRPORT TO BE FULLY OPERATIONAL SOON, SAYS PREMIER PAGE  7

12 YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 PAGE 

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

Beach access row sparks national outrage BY OLIVIA ROSE THE RIGHTS of access to public beaches in front of private properties raised its head again on New Year’s Day, after several beachgoers looking for a spot to soak up the sun were accused of trespassing and told to leave Taylor Bay beach. A video which circulated on social media depicted a heated argument between an apparent home owner and a group of residents. It garnered thousands of views and peeved comments from both locals and tourists on the seemingly complex issue of private properties encroaching on public beaches. The Weekly News understands that a private landowner erected a gate and a chain-link fence to block access to an overgrown path that leads to the popular Taylor Bay beach. Although the beach is public, it has no clear demarcation; this is the root of the problem since the path that leads to the beach is on private property anyone accessing it without permission is therefore trespassing. Wellington Williams who recorded the video believes the home owner was racially prejudiced. He said: “What made us furious was that, at this same beach there was about eight tourist families who also entered the beach the same way we did. “He called the security and told us that we can’t be on the beach because we were trespassing… so I went to ask (for) myself and they too said that no one told them anything and that they were just relaxing on the beach. Same thing we were doing, so I told him it’s because we were black.” He stressed: “I want to make a statement that not every white

Gate that prohibits entry to Taylor Bay beach

person you see in this country or in our everyday life are racist people, it’s not fair for every white person to be called racist because of this particular person. “And this is not a white and black post for everyone to start bad mouthing and fighting amongst each other, however is a time when we all can come together and get this beach publicise to all of us.” Since the incident several politicians and legal luminaries have weighed in on the issue pointing out that there is ambiguity in the law regarding public access to the beach. Many argue that since the public beach front goes to the high-water mark, the narrow path to access it should be subject to compulsory possession by the Government. However, Minister of Tourism Ralph Higgs says the solution is not that simple. In a Facebook post he categorically stated that all beaches in the Turks and Caicos Islands are public. “And therefore free for people and guests to enjoy in a responsible way.” He pointed out that back in 2016 there was a similar incident at Taylor

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Olivia Rose - Senior Reporter Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1

Aerial view of the beach

Bay which brought the situation to the attention of the Government. The then premier sought legal advice from a private sector lawyer but the issues surrounding the beach access and the beach itself remains the centre of investigation as to how it might be addressed as other factors

have revealed that it is not a straight forward issue. He informed that since his Government assumed office, his ministry led on the Government’s position to place a moratorium on further development and removal of beach accesses and ordered a full

review of beach accesses. This review was designed to ensure that there are sufficient quantities of beach accesses for unimpeded public use following years of high land sale, obstructed beach accesses and unregistered easement. “The matter at Taylor Bay along with other beach accesses has caught my Government’s full attention. “As a result, quick and decisive steps are being taken to arrest and address the matter at Taylor Bay, other beach sites and beach accesses around the country without delay. “It has become more urgent that my ministry accelerate our efforts to address these matters, which involve Chambers as Advisors, Planning and Crown Land Unit.” He noted that a further report replete with legal guidance will be released shortly.

Washy says protest peacefully over Taylor Bay beach access BY DELANA ISLES LEADER of the Opposition Washington Misick stated that his Government, the former PNP administration, had attempted to resolve the Taylor Bay beach access controversy - in spite of reports to the contrary. Misick weighed in on the issue which exploded over the weekend following an incident among some beachgoers and a homeowner in Chalk Sound. The beachgoers accused the homeowner of racially profiling them and illegally fencing off what should an access to a public beach. However, the issue is not as simple as that as the fencing was built on private land, but while the land may be private, the beach remains public but access to it has now been cut off. The blame should and as the PNP leader stated, lays squarely in the hands of the Government, his and the current administration for not ensuring access to public property. The issue has not only plagued the Taylor Bay beach, but several others across the islands that have received similar controversy over the years. Misick called a press conference on Wednesday (January 3) to address who really holds the blame for the issue never being properly resolved and to call on young people to be careful of whatever protest action they take in response to the incident. The former government minister said that his Government - led by Dr Rufus Ewing - had formulated a document making representation on the issue over some 18 months with an attempt to clarify and codify the legislation so that the issue would be settled. However, it was never settled,

despite efforts to do so. He recalled that when he became chief minister he met the land at Taylor Bay already contracted but stated that he had thwarted the deal from going through. “What we have today is a situation where the matter is still unsettled… “…that land was actually already contracted or there was an agreement in place or under negotiation prior to 1991 when I became chief minister. “It was yours truly who thwarted the arrangement and made sure the land was then subdivided and given to Belongers. “Now that is the truth, that is documented and anybody who is honest would know that is the truth, if it wasn’t for that action there wouldn’t be a black man living in Chalk Sound.” He stated that this is the nexus of the negative and racist tendencies in that area, one which has continued until today. “Having said that we must always come down on the side of the law and there is a legal and proper way to fix this problem and I admire the courage of the young man on the beach who took the pictures as I am for standing up and confronting bigotry. “There is no place for bigotry in this country. We should not tolerate it. “On the other hand, we have a right as a self-respecting people to make sure that whatever we do we do it within the confines of the law. “We also ought to petition the authorities to make sure that the effort that was made by the Progressive National Party to have the legislation changed and to make it clear what should happen with places like Taylor Bay is done quickly.” The PNP leader said that he is

aware of a planned beach party on the weekend, and while he did not discourage its hosting, he did caution the party goers to make sure that they are in the right. The beach party Misick alluded to is being hosted by his brother and former Premier Michael Misick as a form of protest against last weekend’s incident. The PNP leader further stated: “The issue as it relates to that beach is not settled, and I know there will be people within my own party who will take me to task for trying to be the voice of moderation but I believe this is time for leadership, not stirring conflict at a time when we as a country ought to be finding ways to solve it and solve it quickly. “We should also make it quite clear that anyone with racist tendencies should not consider living in these islands or even visiting them because that is not something that we will tolerate.” He also made it clear that at the moment he, like most other people, does not know the legal status of the land at Taylor Bay. However, he said that it is within the purview of the Government to ensure that there are beach accesses. He further called on the youth of the territory, who are riled about the years long unresolved issue, to be careful of whom they follow while looking for a revolution, stating that they need their own revolution. Misick called on them to be critical thinkers and to examine what they are being sold by persons with political ambitions and not much else to recommend them. He said that if they need to have a party on the beach in protest, do so, but be careful they don’t send the wrong message.

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Rita Gardiner has been awarded the Weekly News Person of the Year 2017 accolade due to her unwavering devotion to furtheri the development of sports in the TCI

PERSON OF THE YEAR

FROM PIPE DREAMS TO PODIUMS BY GEMMA HANDY YOU know you’re about to meet someone rather special when a preparatory Google search of their name throws up a catalogue of commendations, acclamations and awards. A perusal of Rita Gardiner’s potted work history reveals her professional accomplishments to be even more impressive than her online presence suggests. Her British Empire Medal could get lost in the litany. The trio of additional accolades garnered last summer not only served to cement TCI’s status as a force to be reckoned with on the world sporting stage, it has also seen the trailblazing 62-year-old named

Pluck, prowess and triumphs see sports veteran Rita Gardiner named Weekly News Person of the Year 2017 2017’s Weekly News Person of the Year. “Hard work never killed anyone,” Rita says cheerfully, in response to a question about the boundless energy which has characterised her fourdecade career. The mantra, borrowed from her grandmother, has been the impetus behind her multi-faceted endeavours - along with unending passion and a dogged refusal to see TCI’s burgeoning young athletes sidelined in favour of those from bigger, mightier nations.

The desire to see the territory represented atop the podiums of the globe’s biggest sporting events first sprouted wings on the hot dusty terrain of Grand Turk’s parade grounds in the 1960s. “I lived with my grandparents next to the grounds where all the sports were played. There was no TV in those days so we grew up doing sports. After my chores were done, I used to run and run and run,” Rita recalls. “I spent so much time there I became really good at it. If I had a

problem, once I got on the track all that sadness would go away; it was my getaway.” In the absence of television, childhood role models surfaced from the airwaves. “Cricket was the main thing played back then. Cricketers used to get to travel around the region; I’d hear about them on the radio and wish we could go to places to run,” she continues. “That’s what inspired me to get involved in athletics.” High school graduation was

followed by an associate degree in education from Indian River State College in Florida. But it was sport that held her heart. Rita became an executive member of the TCI’s first softball association in 1976, followed by captain of the Islands’ first female league. By 1977 she had helped found the territory’s Amateur Athletic Association (TCAAA), an organisation of which she would later become president. By now, Rita’s once loftyseeming ambitions of seeing the TCI’s sporting stars shine under the world’s spotlight were becoming a reality. The Islands’ made their international debut at the Florida CONTINUED 

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

Sports veteran Rita Gardiner has received numerous awards and titles throughout her colourful career

FROM PIPE DREAMS TO PODIUMS CONTINUED ROM 

Relays in Gainesville in 1978. That same year, Rita accompanied Team TCI as assistant coach to the Carifta Games in Nassau, Bahamas. ‘First’ is a word that appears profusely on Rita’s resume. It may have been breaking new ground in sports or her early 90s stint as a nominated member of the Legislative Council – both then male-dominated arenas – that spurred her on to champion the rights of women. In 1998, her ‘outstanding contribution’ to the development of sports in the TCI was officially recognised by the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF). Rita credits her grandmother, who she describes as her “greatest role model”, with her keen community spirit. In 1999, she was appointed director of the new Women’s Desk, now the Gender Affairs Unit. Combatting domestic violence and ensuring teenage mothers could continue to access education were causes close to her heart. “Years ago, girls were thrown out of school for being pregnant while the boy was allowed to stay on,” she says. “I made it my business to stop that.” Just a year into the role, Rita had established a school of continuous education for young mums and cofounded the Domestic Violence

Foundation. “We are now seeing the benefits of that,” she says. “More women are coming forward and reporting cases of violence. “We have done a lot to empower women in TCI. We far surpassed the UN’s goal of having 30 percent of political positions filled by women by 2015. To me that’s awesome. “These days, women are in the forefront of every aspect of life here, taking their rightful places and proving women can do anything on a par with men.” Rita says there is still work to be done, however, and it is vital to “keep the conversations going”. “Women used to be subservient, not forceful. If you were too strong, people would say you had ‘too much man’ in you,” she smiles, ruefully. “But we made sure we brought all these issues to the forefront so people had no choice but to listen.” It was that same tenacity that led to the Islands staging the biggest sporting event in its history. Undeterred by the absence of a modern stadium or even a 400m track, Rita made a passionate – and ultimately successful – presentation in 2004 urging the IAAF and Caribbean cohorts to allow TCI to host the 2007 Carifta Games. “That was so important to me; it wouldn’t have mattered if I never achieved anything else. Almost 500 people took part from many different

countries. It was huge putting it together, but vital for us moving forward and making sure athletics got the attention it deserved.” The success of Rita’s bid paved the way for the state-of-the-art national stadium in Providenciales. “Without Carifta, we would still be running on dirt,” she says. In 2004, Rita also lobbied the Commonwealth Games Federation to extend full membership to the TCI, becoming the territory’s first Commonwealth Games Association president. She still holds the reins today. Rita continues to beat a path for females in general and sports in particular. Organising the country’s first Queen’s Baton Relay, founding the TCI Women in Sports group, being the first woman inducted into the National Sports Hall of Fame, and receiving her British Empire Medal in 2016 are among her subsequent feats. Last June saw the first in a trio of successes during 2017 with an award by the World Anti-Doping Agency for her work towards keeping athletics clean. But it was July that saw her proudest moment to date when she received the Commonwealth Games Award of Merit, the first female ever to do so. Still reeling from that, a month later she was given the IAAF Veteran’s Pin for long and outstanding service to the field. Being named ‘Weekly News

Person of the Year 2017’ rounds off a year of triumphs for the motherof-three and grandmother to five. She says she was elated to be given the news from publisher, W Blythe Duncanson. Today, her grandmother’s words all those years ago still ring in her ears. “People tell me I am always going, that I work so hard. I tell them what my grandmother used to say. You only get there by hard work and determination. You have to fight for what you want. I do believe that.” Rita, a devoted Anglican since childhood, also cites her faith as a motivating factor, along with the support of her husband Walter Lake Gardiner, National Insurance Board chief. “I feel so grateful to have been able to touch so many lives over the years. Sports are great for our children because they broaden their horizons, offer many different opportunities and take them to places they’ve never seen,” she says. Five decades on from the days Rita was first pounding the parade grounds’ dirt track and dreaming of seeing TCI compete at major international tournaments, she had the honour of accompanying homegrown sprint champion Delano Williams to the 2016 Olympics. “I am proud to say I played a great role in getting him there,” she says. “He is a real inspiration for our youngsters as the only TC Islander

ever to qualify.” Without Delano’s own fierce determination, his future would have looked very different; a 1996 ruling meant that dependent territories could no longer compete for their native country. Delano had an even tougher fight on his hands to join Team Great Britain. “For the future I would like to see TCI become a member of the International Olympic Committee,” Rita says. “That’s something I have been working towards diligently, always making sure I have the ears of people high up in sports when visiting different countries.” Given her spunk and resolve, one would be forgiven for thinking Rita’s something of a tough cookie. Not so, she grins. “People think I’m aggressive – and I can be at times – but I’m a softy underneath. I have a big heart and cry easily. I just like to get the job done – and will go through hell and high water to do so.” Little surprise then that Rita won’t be resting on her laurels anytime soon. “I truly believe God put me here for this purpose,” she says. “Not only have I had the opportunity to make my mark on TCI through my passion, I have changed lives forever – and to me, that’s tremendous. “People didn’t think TCI could ever make it this far in sports,” Rita adds, “I’d like to be remembered as one who blazed the trail.”

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Grand Turk airport to be fully operational soon, says premier BY OLIVIA ROSE AFTER a prolonged search for a quantity surveying firm, a preferred bidder has been identified to begin construction work on the JAGS McCartney International Airport in Grand Turk. Almost four months after hurricanes Irma and Maria wreaked havoc on the territory’s capital causing significant damage to the airport, the first stage of the Government’s tendering process is now complete. Following the completion of a mandatory damage assessment by the airport’s insurer, Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in a recent statement said that efforts are being made to repair the damages in a timely manner. She said: “The Turks and Caicos Islands Government in collaboration with the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA) resolved to ensure that the JAGS McCartney International Airport in Grand Turk is fully operational and passengers - both locals and visitors - receive the best

arrival and departure experience on their visit.” She applauded the TCIAA for their tireless efforts in ensuring that the airport is restored to operational safe standards. “On the road to recovery, critical infrastructure such as airports is an essential component of a return to normalcy. “The progress towards full operational capacity is to be commended.” Terminal and marketing manager Lavern Skippings Reynolds told the Weekly News during a telephone interview that work will be carried out on the terminal building, the fire hall and the tower of the airport. She explained that once the quantity surveying firm has been engaged, they will prepare a scope of works for the contractors to bid on. “Advertisements for bids normally run for six weeks, before tenders are evaluated and a contract is awarded.” John T Smith, chief executive officer of the TCIAA, recently said that Grand Turk, South Caicos and

PDM parliamentarian Josephine Connolly denies switch to PNP THIS week rumours flew around the blogosphere that member of the House of Assembly and PDM stalwart Josephine Connolly had “jumped ship” to the opposition party PNP. On Wednesday (January 3), these rumours were staunchly denied by the PDM All Island Member in statements to the press, with her calling them malicious and mischievous. Online news site, Magnetic Media reported that the rumours about Connolly’s defection to the PNP came just two hours before a press conference was hosted by Leader of the Opposition Washington Misick. The report read: “Two hours before, the social media rumour mill churned out an item which said Josephine Connolly was to join that media meeting of the Progressive National Party to announce her allegiance to the PNP; the rumour added that Connolly would be the opposition party’s leader in one year.” But Connolly has publicly denied the rumour and disputed claims that she was also

All Island Member, Josephine Connolly

scheduled to appear with the PNP leader at the press conference. Connolly who has herself fallen out of favour with her own party leader and was subsequently fired from ministerial post earlier in 2017, called the gossip crazy and wicked. During the press conference, the PNP leader addressed the fallacious news, stating that should Connolly want to join the party, she is free to and would be welcomed.

JAGS McCartney International Airport in Grand Turk

the outer islands remain a priority for the authority. He said: “We wish to not only restore the damages caused but

also improve where possible each facility.” The TCIAA is a governmental body and is bound by the Public

Procurement Ordinance and other relevant policies and procedures that must be followed in order to proceed with works.

Illegal sloop lands on New Year’s Day BY OLIVIA ROSE A SLOOP carrying at least 18 Haitian migrants made landfall on the first day of the new year. According to the Immigration Department, the illegal visitors were apprehended in the North West Point and Silly Creek area of Providenciales on the morning of Monday (January 1). Footage has been circulating on social media showing a group of men wading through the water of Chalk Sound carrying some personal items. They were arrested by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and the Immigration Task Force and are currently being processed at the Detention Centre and waiting repatriation. All 18 will be entered on the Immigration Stop List, a measure which nullifies any opportunity for future grant of entry into the TCI. While investigations continue into illegal trafficking, the Ministry of Border Control and Employment Services is urging anyone with information concerning planned arrival of other sloops to contact the police on 911 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477. Minister of Border Control and Employment, Sean Astwood said that control officers apprehended and repatriated more than 1,000 illegal migrants in 2017. “In January alone, we had four boat arrivals and during the month of

A group of men wade through Chalk Sound from an illegal boat which made landfall on January 1

June, we were spared the arrival of nine,” he said. “This has to stop and it must stop now.” Astwood reported to the House of Assembly that the Task Force Agency continues to work with other law enforcement agencies on joint operations. Their combined efforts during the second quarter of the year netted as many as 739 illegal migrants who were then apprehended and repatriated, he said. He further observed that in the year the Government has been in power, the degree of human smuggling is the highest witnessed in the territory’s history. “Nothing would give me more

pleasure then to say that we are free of human smuggling, but in having it, I would have liked to be able to say that only foreigners are doing it - and how much more so, if I was able to say that only civilians are involved. “But, as we all know, we are not free of human smuggling and sadly not only foreigners but Turks and Caicos Islanders alike are involved, and sadder still it’s a belief that human smuggling has penetrated the core of the very agencies entrusted with the protection of our very own borders. “This cannot be right, must not be right and will not be accepted,” Astwood stated.

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

Lawyer calls on Government to properly define beach access BY OLIVIA ROSE VOCAL attorney Mark Fulford has urged the Government to take the necessary action to ensure that public beaches are visibly demarcated. Fulford in his response to a heated argument which erupted on New Year’s Day between homeowners and local beachgoers on Taylor Bay, said beach access is a “mess that needs action”. He said: “The law as it relates to our beaches is crystal clear like our waters, which is that all beaches are public. “The residents of Chalk Sound can’t seem to catch a break. Yesterday it was the landing of an illegal sloop, now today it is Belongers including our very own Miss Turks and Caicos Islands being chased off one of our beaches.” Fulford, shedding light on the issue, noted that the ambiguity and confusion surrounds access to the beach in the form of legally registered easement known as beach

access over the land towards the beach. He stressed that all public beach access needs to be registered with the land registry. “Chalk Sound residents have been talking about this issue for months as it appears that the position surrounding Taylor Bay Beach access is unclear. “However, to the naked eyes it appears that Taylor Bay beach is effectively surrounded by privately own land which were to have an easement ie. public beach access registered thereon at least 25 years ago when a well-known development was granted the land for the creation of an ultra-high end residential subdivision. “If this was all properly done and registered back, then the land documents will show that such an easement exists. “I cannot say as I don’t have access to those documents but the minister for DECR will have such access and can clarify the true position. “However, if it was not

properly done back then it lies to this Government to review the development agreement or file plans as was approved by planning to ascertain and confirm that it was agreed that a beach access was to be created.” Fulford further advised the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) to ensure a senior staff member visits the homeowner to properly advise them regarding the boundaries of their property. He said: “And also correctly advise him on the laws relating to beaches in our beautiful by nature TCI, which is that all beaches are public. “This will quell the storm that is brewing over the unfair, rude and downright disrespectful manner in which that property owner spoke to one of us (a Belonger) which I condemn in the highest fashion. “Our country is very inviting but there are lines that should not be crossed.” He further called on the

MILLS MUSES

New year, new values? WHENEVER the new year approaches we begin to think of the resolutions we want to make to achieve some of our objectives. Many of these speak to acquiring additional resources for various purposes, wanting to acquire a higher education or investing in new businesses and projects to enhance our financial or social status. But everything we plan for is based on the values we hold. Without proper, new values we lack direction and a clear purpose. We can’t plan resolutions using yesterday’s values. We need a new vision based on future needs. To be successful in the new year requires we rid ourselves of values that don’t work and adopt new ones that do. We can’t pour new wine into old wine baskets. A new year requires the will to make our new resolutions work for us and see them through. New values bring our resolutions to fruition. One of these is to trust ourselves to come up with what we really need and is in our best interest. Self-trust is therefore critical. We have to know that we can come up with the best resolutions, visualise them happening and live

BY OLIVER MILLS

Oliver Mills is a former lecturer in education at the UWI Mona Campus. He holds a BA (Hons.) UWI, an M.Ed. Dalhousie Univ., an MA University of London, and a Postgraduate Diploma in HRM and Training, Leicester Univ.

as if they have already materialised. And, we must believe in our ability to get the result we want. Personal trust is therefore essential. Valuing ourselves is another principle. It is having a positive view of what we do and praising ourselves for doing it. When we value ourselves, we become aware that doing our best in our own way is what counts. We then gain self-confidence and selfrespect, and can hold our own in any situation. Self-valuing gives us the courage to persist knowing we will be successful in realising our resolutions and provides the assertiveness necessary for us to overcome hesitation. We then move closer to making come true what we set out to accomplish. Facing and conquering our fears

is a further, important value we should commit ourselves to having. When we face squarely what deters us or causes us to hold back from what we want to do we find that it was all a mirage, simply tricks of the mind planted into us by our culture with no basis in fact. After we clear this psychological hurdle, we find the path is free for us to explore and make what we want a reality. To ensure whatever resolutions we make come to pass, we should therefore incorporate as an important part of our behaviour the new values of self-trust, viewing ourselves positively and conquering our unfounded fears. They not only prepare us to face the challenges of a new year but confer on us a new personality as well.

Attorney Mark A Fulford

Government to further take a paper to Cabinet with a decision to acquire a sliver of the land and have a beach

access registered over the land as it was intended, while ensuring that public access is clearly identified.

Police kill Lavern Smith in New Year’s Day shootout – Cayman Islands police arrive to investigate TWENTY-five-year-old Lavern Jeven Smith met a sudden and untimely death on January 1 at the hands of a police officer, making his the first death of the new year. The Kingston youth was shot down by police at about 5.45am following a shootout with cops. Ranks of the Royal TCI Police Force visited Aviation Drive following a report they received of people being in possession of firearms. The cops went with the intention of arresting two men whom they were informed had guns. According to a police report of the incident, while attempting to arrest the men, one of them was shot by a rank and later succumbed to his injuries. Police said Smith’s partner managed to make good his escape and police are now actively searching for him. During the same incident, a police officer was also shot, the report said. That officer is currently being treated for his injuries. As is customary when an officer of the law is involved in a shooting incident during the commission of his duties, outside police ranks are invited to investigate the incident. In a statement shortly after the shooting, acting Commissioner of Police, Trevor Botting confirmed that officers from the Royal

Cayman Islands Police Service would be arriving to the Turks and Caicos Islands on Wednesday (January 3) to commence their independent review of the circumstances of the shooting of Smith on New Year’s Day. Botting also stated: “This is a significant incident and my officers are actively seeking the other man involved in this shooting. “I would ask that any person with any information, either about the incident itself or the whereabouts of the man involved to contact my officers or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477. “An investigation is underway into the shooting of the male and with regards to the shooting of one of my officers.” He added: “It is the usual practice following a police related shooting to request an independent investigation and this will be undertaken by officers from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Force. “Given this matter is now under investigation, no further comment regarding the circumstances of the incident will be made at this stage. “I would urge the local community not to speculate as to the circumstances of this incident and to allow the independent investigators undertake their work to establish the circumstances of the shooting.”

January 6-12, 2018

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Government appoints Derek Been as new Director of Immigration BY OLIVIA ROSE AS THE Government seeks to improve the overall structure, systems and management of the Ministry of Border Control, a new Director of Immigration has been appointed. According to a recent Government press release Derek Been officially took up the post on Wednesday, November 15, 2017. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, said that Been’s appointment comes at a critical time. “I am pleased to congratulate Mr Been on his appointment and to welcome him back to the Turks and Caicos Islands’ civil service. “Mr Been possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience, having previously served as a former undersecretary within this and numerous other ministries along with serving as a former permanent secretary within government. “He is fully aware of both the challenges and needs of the department and has already in his short time in the department set about an action plan for change. “I look forward to working with him and to supporting him in his role where I have every confidence that he will do exceptionally well.” Minister of Border Control and Employment Sean Astwood pointed

Deputy Governor Anya Williams, new Director of Immigration Derek Been and Minister of Border Control Sean Astwood

out that now more than ever there needs to be sound direction and developments in the policies and practices guiding both migration and immigration activities for the protection and security of the country’s borders. “Mr Been, as a former civil servant, undersecretary and permanent secretary of numerous areas within Government, brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be fundamental

to the department’s ability to address the many challenges that have inundated our communities and social systems over the years. “While we have embarked on numerous initiatives for the reshaping of migration and immigration in the TCI, there is a long road ahead of us but I am encouraged by the energy and diversity that Mr Been has on how the department, and indeed the country, can achieve its goals. “Over the coming weeks Mr

Been will be working to institute new guidelines and policies for the improvement and revitalisation of his department and together, with our support, I expect that he will have another long successful tenure with us.” Commenting on his appointment Mr Been thanked God for the opportunity to help further develop his beloved country. “I am fully cognisant of the inherent challenges and threats that seem to dominate the immigration and labour sectors. “However, opportunities also exist and the way we manage migration and immigration is critical to the cultural, social and economic well-being of these Islands and for those who conduct business and reside here permanently. “The Immigration Department is essentially an enforcement body; the staff that I lead is expected to operate within the provision of the laws of the country. “I expect the officers to be fair, firm and consistent in exercising their functions and we expect the public and our clients to appreciate and adhere to the law. “As it relates specifically to the role as director, I will support lawful entry to persons (business and pleasure) who will benefit these Islands, while preventing the abuse of the society and its economy.”

He noted critical to meeting the objectives of the ministry, increased staff training and cross training, forging strategic alliances and the use of technology to protect borders are essential. Been is considered a civic leader having dedicated many years of service to the Boys Scouts where he serves as the Leader of the Grand Turk Division. He holds a post graduate degree from the University of Leicester Business School and previously dedicated over 10 years to the Turks and Caicos Islands’ civil service. He served as the former Undersecretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Communication and Immigration from 1999 to 2004; as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs from 2006 to 2009 and as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, Utilities and Housing from 2009 to 2010, before taking up the post of Deputy Director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Ports Authority from 2010 to 2016. During his tenure in Government Been had the opportunity to assist in a number of key projects including the construction of the North and Middle Caicos Causeway, Leeward Highway, the introduction of the Ports Authority, the Public Works Change Initiative, the Blue Ribbon Commission and several other key projects.

It’s a girl! Hospital delivers Christmas Day baby WEIGHING in at seven pounds and nine ounces, little baby Destin Naye Gaia Buckingham was the first baby to be born at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Christmas Day. Little baby Buckingham was born on the auspicious day to proud young parents Yariceincy De La Cruz and David Buckingham at the Providenciales hospital at 4.49pm. The jovial parents were presented with a gift bath tub stuffed with infant-care items such as diapers, clothes, bibs, baby wipes, and more, courtesy of TCI Hospital. In a statement on the birth, the hospital congratulated the Buckingham family, while offering “a huge thank you to all the staff in the delivery suite and maternity unit”. It read: “Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital wishes to congratulate a couple on receiving the best present they could have possibly imagined on Christmas Day - a bouncing baby girl.”

Midwife Basilla Otuonye, mother of newborn Yariceincy De La Cruz, Doctor Natalie Medley, father of newborn David Buckingham and baby Destin

Mother Yariceincy De La Cruz, father David Buckingham and baby Destin

10 NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Find and mind Caribbean culture Dear Editor, Maybe I should have suggested a headline ‘The quest for the Caribbean heart and soul and purifying its society’. But there are more and different perspectives to it. It should be a top resolution for the new year. Tourists and especially the new generation of so called Millennials will become the core customer group from the Caribbean source markets for travel and leisure. They are known to be looking for authenticity when the they visit destinations. They wish to find, understand and experience original culture or at least significant remnants of it. Culture may be one of the highest of values of a territory. Yet, there are those, who suggest promoting a ‘One Caribbean’, as if they are a player with 20 tennis balls. There are no 12 balls to play with and to be hit in various directions; there are 20 gems to be valued. Then there are those who aim to import what they find in other foreign cultures and try ‘Caribbeanise’ it, or what is worse, westernise the Caribbean. The Caribbean may be a melting pot of several cultures that had their influence in the past, yet the Caribbean has its own heart and soul

that has evolved from geographical and historic circumstances. Culture is what connects one to the people and their territory. It is a uniqueness that the people feel their heart. If it is not obvious on the surface, it should be explored and found. Very often it can still be found among elders. Unfortunately, these elders who may be wisdom-keepers are not visible, or get exposure, let alone be given a voice. Sometimes they themselves prefer silence especially towards who they consider to be the ‘uninitiated’. I have been part of interviews where one would first have gain trust before hearing about the wisdom and sentiments that were deep in their hearts. Essentially, elders are libraries of knowledge, history and tradition. It deserves respect, and is of importance to find out the cultural elements that need to be preserved for the younger generation but also for those visitors who have a serious and sincere interest in learning about a culture and its roots. For some young people, it may be an encouragement to not leave their island to find a new challenge, be it studying or finding a professional opportunity elsewhere.

Answers don’t always lay outside. One can combine the inner local understanding and use the outer behaviour like forms of external communication and processing activities. There is an opportunity in developing the uniqueness of the Caribbean that can be felt with the heart. It is a pity to allow to let a culture die from within; let it live or give it new live from within. Don’t let the self-identity of the individual Caribbean territories erode away. There could be an opportunity to empower a young generation of professionals and entrepreneurs. The Caribbean ways are part of a diverse world, that need respect. It is what tourist and other visitors hope and expect to find. Focus back on the originals and origins! Love for what you have! Some don’t even know or understand what they have in their culture. It’s not about more money, not about the new concrete structures, not about a new hip-hop or new fashion. The Caribbean shall not be a new Disneyland. Local birds still sing the same song of 100 years, they are divine and cannot be modernised.

There are regional teachings that might be considered sacred. They are things that one should give thanks for in one’s heart and they are actually admired by guests and visitors. Without commercialising them they can be used for new sources of revenue to support a sustainable economy while also having a positive socio-economic impact. Do the words ‘tourism product development’ ring a bell? The authenticity of culture it is what is found the heart of the people. It is not found in brochures. One has to travel and come over, show a sincere interest and then one can experience the culture. Culture cannot be promoted as hocus-pocus. Culture is not a surrogate from elsewhere that is copied and finds parroting words in promotional texts. In fact, replication shows contempt or disrespect for other cultures. Don’t adopt, but rather cultivate your own! The own culture should be a love romance that can be offered and shared with guests. How do I come to write these things? In my younger years, I was PR consultant for a tribal community of Ojibwa Indians in Northern

Wisconsin in a time when they regained their hunting and fishing rights in the ceded territories. A difficult time when protesters carried banners with the text: “Save a deer, kill an Indian”. I ‘ghost-wrote’ the following text for the chief: “May our Creator give us, our friends, and those who oppose our feelings, the strength to live in peaceful coexistence.” In a meeting with Indians in the Amazone region of Ecuador, while I was involved in the production of a TV documentary, I was asked by the natives if I had a less difficult name to call me. I suggested ‘Torro Blanco’ which well accepted. Intercultural communication and relations were always a pleasure for me to deal with. If I was asked to express my sentiments of appreciation for Caribbeans of all kind and in all territories, no matter what their origin is, I would do so as follows: “Maye the sun shine warmly on you and may your creator hold and protect you in the palm of his hand.” Let the top resolution for this new year be finding and minding the Caribbean culture. Cdr Bud Slabbaert

COMMENTARY

Pause and reflect THE HOLIDAYS are winding down. It is time to pause and reflect, refresh our thinking and hold the correct people responsible. While the calendar year ends on new year’s night and the fiscal year ends March 31, it is our political year, beginning in November, that draws attention. Much has happened in the past year and we have 13 years of problems yet to face. One old problem is the role of our governors and their performance. Governors are appointed by a bureau in Britain. Our Government has no influence and under the 2011 constitution have no responsibility for the results of border and police control. The governor is also responsible for managing civil service, not our Government. It takes more than

BY DAVID TAPFER

David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 27 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011

an entire term of service for a new governor to determine who is who and what is what in the TCI. What briefing passes from one governor to the next? While we have found all governors to be gentlemen with good intentions they have all failed. Failed in evaluating the past PNP governments. Failed to handle border control and policing, two of their basic responsibilities.

What about their management of the civil service? This, it appears, has been left up to the deputy governor, our own Anya Williams. The civil service, in my opinion, is underpaid yet paid too much based on job performance. This is a sure sign of mismanagement at the top. Ms Williams has responsibility for the public service for more than five years. Appointed shortly after Rufus Ewing became premier.

If you cannot receive a birth or death certificate while you wait (or months later) do not blame a civil servant. The buck stops at the top. If the civil servant does not show up on the job on time, takes prolonged lunch breaks and is away from the job for weeks with no trained back up - that is management failure. Take these problems up with Ms Williams. If you are a civil servant trying your best and can get no satisfaction from your middle manager - go straight to the top, Anya Williams. Year after year the civil service performance gets worse. Where are the governor and deputy governor? The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), which selects and manages our governors, has failed. Does Premier Sharlene need to spend more time in Britain? While our premier is celebrating her gender, she needs to form an

organisation that can function while she is in Britain. Our deputy premier is on overload and needs help. Thirteen years of Gilly-DonHue ministries and inept governors have left immigration a mess. Our deputy premier does not need criticism, he needs help. One leader to weed out corruption and another to form and manage sensible immigration policy. Sean cannot function as assistant premier while on immigration overload! The FCO, thousands of miles away in Britain, takes and gives advice to our revolving governors up in Grand Turk. Now Britain meddles in the statutory bodies. Question? Will the appointed governors and deputy governor continue to escape responsibility? Pause and reflect!

January 6-12, 2018

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PDM responds to PNP press conference Dear Editor, The malicious rumours speculating about the political manoeuvrings by our second all island member can only be seen for what it is, a desperate attempt by some PNP operatives to get attention and an audience ahead of a late 3pm press conference by their leader and leader of the official opposition party. Sadly, it worked and by all accounts the attention given to the leader by the public was a huge disappointment not because of Hon Connolly’s no-show but because of his tired and caustic rhetoric that continues to be past time just as he has now admitted in his first and second press conference in just over two weeks. Washington Misick and the PNP cannot try to disguise their history in the affairs of Silly Creek and Taylor Bay. It is of their own manufacturing which when we fast forward the clock to 2018 from their 19911995 decision making we see a young Turks and Caicos Islander being choked off from some of the remaining beaches because of their decision 23 years ago to sell off choice pieces of Crown land. In fact, what is comical is that Mr Misick’s, Washington’s that is, press conference was a political volley attempt at the young people who he fears will rush head first into

a revolution on the beach at Taylor Bay at the call of his younger brother. he sibling rivalry is well alive in the PNP. We take note too of the call by Mr Michael Misick to take back the beach he choked off from us poor Turks and Caicos Islanders and ask him to tell the truth to the people. He should clear his name of the wrong doing he has inflicted on the good people of the TCI while sitting in office from his many decisions which are not before the court. The people want access to their beaches. In fact, the latest selling of beach access in this country took place not too long ago under a Rufus Ewing led PNP Government. Our leader and premier is correct when she says: “We are constantly bogged down by having to fix and clean up PNP mess.” In the end, what is most noteworthy is that in the first week of 2018 we now see a desperate and power hungry group of individuals fielded from within the PNP making major accusations against government ministers and the premier. It’s as if they smell blood, but they really should look down at their feet because that blood is from a shot in the foot. Doug Parnell, PDM Chairman

PDM chairman blows harder Dear Editor, In a shameless effort to distract from the real matter at hand, which is the New Year’s Day incident at Taylor Bay, one must remind the PDM and its chairman that they have control of the reins of government! How foolish do you have to be to blame the PNP for your very own unofficial/official public relations officer running with a false story about the second all island elected member joining the PNP? Nice to see you remember she is on your team. We of course would welcome Hon Connolly and others back home with open arms, as the PNP is the only ‘Big Tent Party’ in the Turks and Caicos Islands. We have now heard from the minister of tourism, and latterly from the member for Cheshire Hall.

What has happened to the premier and minister of finance at whose desk the buck stops? Has the “best man for the job” gone into hiding or is it because the offender is a dear friend of her favourite ministerial colleague? Premier, it is your responsibility to govern and not just make excuses for your lack of ability. You all are being paid handsomely to do the country’s business, so please put your shoulders to the wheel and execute. If you need help, just ask, since you still seem dumbfounded as to what to do except play the blame game. Otherwise, as the say goes: “If you can’t do it then get up off the pot!” Royal S Robinson PNP Chairman

Children of Salt Cay

Mary Robinson Primary School to open in the new year BY CANDY HERWIN MARY Robinson Primary School will open its doors for school children to attend classes this January. This noteworthy information dispels rumours circulating on Salt Cay and further afield that the primary school would remain closed, and the children relocated to Grand Turk to attend school. Without doubt, such a plan would have caused undue hardship and further fragmentation of family life. The parents and community are now both reassured and happy that the children can develop their early cognitive, social and educational skills within the family setting and on home ground. Like many public buildings damaged by the hurricanes, the Mary Robinson school buildings are in need of repair, especially the roof, play area and toilet facilities. However, the community is optimistic and looks forward to seeing this historic building back in action. Volunteers and well-wishers are willing to help outfit the school if government permission is given. For now though, the juniors will temporarily attend classes in the Lloyd Been Methodist Church Hall which will serve as an excellent classroom having luckily escaped any major damage. Mary Robinson Primary School was one of the first schools to be built in the Turks and Caicos Islands and since its formation in the early 1800s. Many children have gone on to become leaders in the community, lawyers, businessmen and teachers. Just recently, on November 28, a former student of Mary Robison Primary School, Enjaleek Dickenson was officially called to the bar of England and Wales entering the

School children from Mary Robinson Primary School in Salt Cay

Enjaleek Dickenson called to the bar

world of barristers, court rooms, law and order. She attended BPP University, recognised as one of the leading law schools in England. The community of Salt Cay and throughout the Islands is proud of her success and subsequent return to practice law in the Turks and Caicos Islands with Duncanson and Co law firm based in Providenciales. Her early education was at Mary Robinson Primary School and it is

only natural that we all look forward to seeing other students follow in her footsteps and become future leaders and role models in the territory. We thank all concerned for listening to our wishes and keeping the school open on Salt Cay. Led by our District Commissioner and supported by the Community in Action Group, residents and friends, the local community intend to rebuild a strong, healthy and integrated community.

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2017

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Year in Review

January 6-12, 2018

THE YEAR 2017 will go down in history for the Turks and Caicos Islands and many of its Caribbean and close US neighbours as one that tested the resilience of both people and governments. While many of our counterparts are still reeling from the year’s impact, the road to recovery is clear and lined with many fertile possibilities. For the Turks and Caicos Islands, the year heralded the rise to power of the territory’s first female premier, the jubilation of a people to embrace and enhance change, the harrowing experience of two massively destructive hurricanes, and a call to action to rebuild, that was met with unwavering strength and community spirit.

JANUARY HAITIAN ILLEGAL MIGRANTS ATTEMPT TO ENTER TCI SHORES

(File name - Haitian sloop intercepted 2017 1) - Haitian sloop carrying 84 illegal migrants intercepted last week) A motorised wooden vessel containing 84 Haitian illegal migrants, attempted to enter the Turks and Caicos Islands. The boat carried 70 men and 14 women. The 25-feet yellow and blue sloop, powered by an engine and sail, was escorted to the South Dock where police and government officials were on hand to assist with the processing. A search for illegal drugs and firearms was carried out on the sloop but nothing was found.

‘PDM WON, BUT A PYRRHIC VICTORY’ – ROYAL ROBINSON

The opposition’s national chairman called the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM)’s win at the polls a ‘pyrrhic victory’. National chairman of the Progressive National Party (PNP) Royal Robinson, in a strongly worded statement, said: “The PDM won at too great a cost for the victory to be worthwhile. “The PDM may have won, but their victory was but a pyrrhic victory - and most certainly, not a total repudiation of the PNP.”

POLICE WARN RESIDENTS AGAINST DISPERSAL OF OBSCENE VIDEOS

(File name - Police probe Smith`s murder 1. Caption - Deceased Kevino ‘Bah’ Smith) A mother’s deafening outcry on social media prompted the police force to dig deeper into the gruesome murder of Kevino ‘Bah’ Smith. March 4 made it two years since 25-year old Smith went missing after a reported heated confrontation. Smith’s dismembered remains were found in Breezy Brae, Grand Turk, in late April 2015 following an aggressive police search effort.

FEBRUARY DPP WANTS TOUGHER PENALTIES ON FIREARM OFFENCES

– Challenges court’s ‘generous’ sentences

Director of Public Prosecutions Jillian Williams, registered concern about several sentences that judge Robert Shuster had handed down to convicted people. The sentences of five people who were convicted of various firearm related crimes did not meet with the satisfaction of the director. They were each sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for their offences with two years suspended sentences.

HEALTHCARE SECTOR TO FACE INCREASED SCRUTINY

(Filename - Statutory Bodies 2. CAPTIONPremier greets patients at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre)

The dissemination of a number of pornographic images and videos on social media outlets, featuring residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands led police to issue a warning to culprits. According to a police press statement, a few of those depicted appeared under the age of consent, classifying these images as child abuse or pornography. “Anyone in possession of these videos or pictures or who forwards them on in any format is committing offenses under the Obscene Publications Ordinance and upon summary conviction can be liable to a fine of $5,000 or a term of imprisonment of six months, or both such fine and imprisonment,” the statement said.

Amid growing concerns about the TCI Hospitals contract and the controversial National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), the healthcare sector has faced increased scrutiny. The new administration was in the process of conducting a comprehensive review of the health sector and several statutory bodies, and updated Cabinet on the management and financial situation and audit of the National Health Insurance Board. The People’s Democratic Party (PDM) before being elected to government made several calls over the years for an in-depth investigation into the healthcare system of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

FOURTH SUSPECT CHARGED FOR ALLEGED INVOLVEMENT IN GARY MEAD MURDER

DEATH TOLL CLIMBS TO 15 AFTER HAITIAN SLOOP CAPSIZES

(File name - Fourth suspect Gary Mead murder – Caption Jose Martinez) Jose Martinez, a Turks and Caicos Islander of Dominican decent, was the fourth suspect to be arrested and charged in connection with the murder of well-known business man, Gary Mead. The 25-year-old was formally charged on January 11 and cautioned with conspiracy to commit robbery.

POLICE CONTINUE PROBE INTO KEVINO ‘BAH’ SMITH’S MURDER

(Filename - Death Toll1. Caption - Haitian sloop intercepted (Magnetic Media photo) The death toll rose to 15 after an illegal Haitian sloop capsized in rough seas at North West Point, Providenciales. Police and immigration rescue teams continued their search for bodies of those who may have drowned following the incident. Police reported that 69 souls were on board the sloop ‘Adonai’ when it left Cape Rouge in Haiti. One survivor from that ship was captured by police.

GOV’T TO START ENFORCING JOB SITE INSPECTIONS

The Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Control, Sean Astwood, said that the TCI Government will be carrying out site inspections in an effort to tackle the problem of illegal migration. In an interview with the Weekly News, Astwood said he was cognisant of the fact that illegal migrants are being brought to the TCI to work as cheap labour. “We believe that most of this is currently going on in the construction industry.”

SAILING PARADISE MURDER ACCUSED FOUND GUILTY IN RETRIAL

(Filed saved as ‘Murder trial 1’ in photos 2017. Caption - Murdered Dominican woman Santa Suarez Ramirez) Lavardo Smith was found guilty for the second time of the brutal murder of Dominican woman Santa Suarez Ramirez. The guilty verdict was delivered by a 12-member jury at about 4.20pm on February 1 in Grand Turk Supreme Court.

TOP COP SAYS CRIME IS DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY

Police Commissioner James Smith says despite rumours, statistically crime is down significantly in Providenciales. He issued a letter on February 7 addressing the recent upsurge in criminal activity and in particular the non-fatal shooting of former Premier Galmo Williams. He said the incident brought into sharp focus the public’s concern about crime.

ACTING PREMIER URGES RESIDENTS TO SET UP NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH GROUPS

Acting Premier and Minister of Border Control Sean Astwood urged the public to do its part in maintaining law and order. Astwood in a strongly worded letter said that crime continues to be a serious issue, one which his Government intends to address robustly. This came after armed bandits robbed and shot former premier Galmo Williams in the leg in Grace Bay, Providenciales.

TOURIST FOUND DEAD IN MIDDLE CAICOS

On February 9 police and other emergency personnel launched an investigation into the discovery of a dead man on the beach in Middle Caicos. Detectives, a medical team and the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies visited Middle Caicos to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the man’s death. A slim built white male in his early thirties had checked into the Blue Horizon resort a few days prior.

NEW COURT OF APPEAL JUDGE APPOINTED

(Pic saved as ‘Weekes’ – New Court of Appeal Judge Paula-Mae Weekes) Justice Paula-Mae Weekes was sworn in by the Governor John Freeman as a judge of the Turks and Caicos Islands Court of Appeal. Justice Weekes was appointed to the Court of Appeal in September, 2016, for a term of three years.

THIRD QUARTER FINANCIALS OF PNP GOVERNMENT REPORTED

On February 3 Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Premier and Minister of Investment, Finance and Trade, outlined the finances of the Turks and Caicos Islands during financial year 20162017. During the House of Assembly sitting, she gave an in-depth look at financial performance of the last Government before the December 15, 2016, general elections as presented in the third quarter financial report. The unaudited results for November 30, 2016 showed an operating surplus of $38.2 million. This resulted in a favourable variance of $35 million over the budget of $3.1 million, the premier told the House.

YOUNG LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR COLLABORATES TO OPEN RESTAURANT IN DOWNTOWN

(Filename - Entrepreneur Willington Williams. CAPTION - 1. Coconut Grove restaurant and lounge opens its doors to the public) Wellington Williams is a young local entrepreneur hoping to make a difference in his community. The jewellery making guru branched off into the culinary world, opening doors to Coconut Grove restaurant and lounge, an establishment geared at providing a casual dining experience for residents and tourists at a reasonable price. An inaugural ceremony was held on February 4 at the restaurant which is located in the 2005 plaza, Downtown, Providenciales.

TCI IS FASTEST-GROWING TOURIST DESTINATION IN THE CARIBBEAN

The Turks and Caicos Islands is the fastestgrowing tourist destination in the Caribbean, according to a statistical report from the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO). Despite political uncertainties, security concerns and economic challenges in the territory’s major source markets, stopovers to the destination grew by a robust 17.5 percent in 2016 totalling 453,612 arrivals when compared to 385,531 arrivals in 2015. The CTO, in a press release issued on February 14, pointed out that the TCI welcomed and hosted 1,300,575 tourists to its shores in 2016.

OPPOSITION LEADER

January 6-12, 2018

NEWS 13

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 SUSPENDED FROM HOA FOR ‘DISRESPECTFUL BEHAVIOUR’

Leader of the Opposition Charles Washington Misick was accused of being disrespectful to members of the House of Assembly and was suspended. On February 13, a debate over allocations made in a 2016/2017 supplementary budget that was tabled by the new Government, denigrated into a shouting match among members after insults flew from the main opposition bench. The appropriation bill at the centre of the controversy requested $4 million for expenditure largely related to a number of contingency warrants, funds for hurricane Matthew, urgent and unforeseen works related to the prison, seawalls, projects in Grand Turk, treatments abroad, additional funding for TOLCO acquisition, various litigations and other sums for urgent and unforeseen expenditure.

UK SECURITY TEAM CARRY OUT ASSESSMENT IN TCI

Two security representatives from the United Kingdom visited the Turks and Caicos Islands to carry out a security needs assessment (SNA) exercise. During the three day exercise from February 20 to 23 the two person team met with the security, government and opposition officials as well as other key stakeholders to speak on crime, illegal migration and other issues.

MORE TRANSPARENCY AND

ACCOUNTABILITY NEEDED IN LITIGATION MATTERS PARNELL

The Appropriation Committee called on the Attorney General’s Chambers to present all potential litigation costs and liabilities to the House of Assembly before they are incurred. This call sparked a round of heated debate in the House on February 13, with the attorney general strongly refuting implications from the committee and the Government benches of a lack of transparency and accountability.

SPEAKER ACCUSED OF BLATANT BIAS TOWARDS THE GOVERNMENT

The speaker of the House of Assembly was accused of being biased towards the Government when he ejected the Leader of the Opposition from the House of Assembly. Leader of the Opposition Charles Washington Misick was suspended from the House on February 13 for calling Member for Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Doug Parnell, a “pompous blowhard”. Speaker of the House, Dwayne Taylor called on Misick to withdraw his remarks against the member and to apologise to the chair for other unparliamentarily remarks. A heated engagement then ensued between the speaker and the leader of the opposition, who responded: “As it relates to my comments in relation to ‘blow hard’, I stand on the dictionary, it is not an offensive word, and I will not withdraw it, and I will not apologise.”

continued

JACK NASTY COLLABORATES WITH BAHAMIAN ARTIST AVVY TO PRODUCE JOINT ALBUM (Filename - Jack Nasty collaboration 1 and 2. Captions – (Pic1) Jack Nasty (Pic2) Avvy ) Turks and Caicos Islands’ very own Jack Nasty collaborated with Bahamian artist Avvy to produce a joint album entitled ‘Dirty South Experiment’. In a statement, the duo expressed their excitement about the project and said that this had been in the works for about a year. David Lightbourne, better known by his stage name Jack Nasty, said that in his opinion the project is much bigger than music because it is a bond between the two nations.

AUTOPSY RESULTS DEEMED AMERICAN DOCTOR’S DEATH ACCIDENTAL

(Filename - Dr John McGurk update. Caption - Dr John McGurk) The autopsy results for Dr John McGurk, an American doctor, whose body was discovered on a rock above the shore in Middle Caicos in February revealed that he died of multiple blunt injuries and that the manner of death was accidental. Dr McGurk, a 32-year-old St Louis doctor, arrived on the island on February 6 and checked in at the Blue Horizon Resort at about 2pm. Hotel management, concerned about his

whereabouts after not seeing him since checkin, filed a report to the police on February 8.

FOUR PRISONERS OUT ON PAROLE

Out of 12 prisoners who applied for parole to the parole board, four of them were on February 22 granted early release. Tesney St Louis was sentenced to four years in prison for possession of a firearm and would have completed his prison term in November. Another parolee, Rubin Campbell was tried and convicted to 12 years in prison for robbery. The third man - Wesley Durmoney was convicted of aggravated burglary and sentenced to seven years in prison. The fourth parolee was Dentery Penn.

$3,700 RAISED FOR MRI MACHINE

(Filename - MRI Machine1. CAPTION - Bob Hayward, the husband of late Wendy Hayward accompanied by his daughter and four-year old granddaughter presented the cheque to the Hospital’s Chief of Allied Services Eleanor Hall and Director of Diagnostic Imaging Services, Larry Stout) A cheque for nearly $3,700 that will go directly towards procuring a Sound Dock System for the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Room at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre was presented to representatives of the hospital on February 22. This came as late cancer patient Wendy Hayward’s foundation raised over $9,000

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

16 NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 for the Sound Dock system and for future performing arts scholarships.

HEALTH MINISTER LAUDS SNAP CENTRE’S TEACHING METHODS

In an unparalleled move, on March 6, the Government invited the leader of the opposition and the PNP chairman to join them in a show of unity against the rising incidents of criminal activities in the Islands. PNP elected members Washington Misick and Royal Robinson joined the head table with Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Deputy Premier Sean Astwood and Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs, in a press briefing. The briefing came just two days after a tourist was robbed of $26,000 that he won at a local casino, after being stabbed and shot by armed criminals near the lobby area of The Palms resort in Grace Bay.

continued

dynamic milieu. The technology currently available in schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands is woefully inadequate for the task of preparing students for the 21st century workforce, enabling smooth post-secondary transition, and ensuring future economic development.

he and his fellow 15 athletes were. Eleven were murdered in cold blood; only five managed to escape. Alon was one of them.

RESIDENTS OF BLUE HILLS UNITE TO CLEAN UP THEIR COMMUNITY

Appointed member of the PNP Opposition, Royal Robinson labelled Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson a hypocrite for not bringing the Service Charge Amendment Bill 2017 for its first reading in the House of Assembly. Royal Robinson issued a statement calling on the premier to step up to the plate and to deliver on her ardent position. He recalled her eagerness to see her private members motion on the reinstatement of the service charge issue be implemented when she was Leader of the Opposition in the House of Assembly.

MUGGED AND ROBBED TOURIST DETAILS HARROWING EXPERIENCE IN LETTER

Minister of Health Edwin Astwood lauded the comprehensive and effective teaching methods of the Special Needs Association of Providenciales (SNAP) Centre. Astwood who toured the institute applauded the intellectual and life skills education being administered to students there. The SNAP Centre, which is located in Kew Town, Providenciales, provides an academic and well-rounded foundation for children and young people with disabilities between the ages four and 24 years.

HUNDREDS OF STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN THE SECOND ANNUAL CAREER DAY EXTRAVAGANZA

A Canadian tourist who was subject to a violent attack in Providenciales reported her harrowing experience on several international travel websites - stating they will never return to the TCI. The latest shocking account is just one of many that were published on the public forum for travellers, detailing incidents of violence, terror, rape and robbery.

HOSPITAL APOLOGISES TO ATTACKED JOGGER WHO COMPLAINED ABOUT POOR SERVICE

InterHealth Canada Turks and Caicos apologised to one of its patients for the alleged poor service she received at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. The apology came after a local media outlet reported on a review posted by one of the two women who was attacked and robbed while jogging in Grace Bay. The woman blasted the hospital for its “cold and incomplete treatment”, having to wait too long, “being spoken to without empathy” and not being properly attended to by the medical personnel who dealt with her case.

COURT EXAMINES REJECTED AND SPOILED BALLOTS FOR ED6

Nearly 600 students took part in the second annual Career Day extravaganza at Enid Capron Primary, an event that gives local students a chance to explore the facets of different jobs that are available in the tourism industry. Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa partnered with the Sandals Foundation sponsored primary school. Students received practical knowledge on the diverse career options available to them in the tourism sector.

MARCH GOV’T TO ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT HOME SECURITY SYSTEMS

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson on March 2 said that the Government would be putting legislative measures in place to facilitate home owners installing home security systems in order to help curb crime. The premier’s remarks came as she was sending out yet another appeal to residents to help the police.

GOV’T AND OPPOSITION TAKE JOINT STANCE ON CRIME

On March 6, Chief Justice Margaret RamsayHale ordered that all of the rejected and spoiled ballots for electoral district six (The Bight) be scrutinised in open court. The order came following arguments by the lawyers for the petition of George Pratt and the respondents Porsha Stubbs-Smith, and the ED6 returning and presiding officers.

GOV’T AND CARNIVAL READY TO GO AHEAD WITH GRAND TURK MASTERPLAN

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson has promised infrastructural support through the national budget for the island of Grand Turk. The money will be allocated through the upcoming budget, the premier told the media during a press conference.

PREMIER CALLS FOR MODERNISATION OF TEACHING TOOLS

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said the traditional method of teaching is a disservice to tech-savvy students. She made these remarks during the church service launching Education Week in Providenciales on March 5. Cartwright Robinson said that in order to solve the technology shortfalls in classrooms, teaching methods must be tailored to the

Alvanetta Crystal Williams, a Blue Hills resident, spearheaded a clean-up campaign in her community on March 4 in an effort to maintain a high standard of cleanliness. She said she has the utmost pride in her community and that every year she organises a team of volunteers to clean up their streets.

DESARROLLOS HOTEL GROUP TIGHT-LIPPED ON RITZ CARLTON HOTEL

The developers for the proposed Ritz Carlton resort in Grace Bay refused to say what progress they made, if any, with the current Government regarding the new development. When this publication contacted the TCI point person for the group, real estate agent Walter Gardiner, he would only say that they haD “nothing to say at this time” and that the matter was still engaging the attention of the courts.

STACY COX ELECTED AS NEW PRESIDENT OF CSHAE

Seasoned hotel industry professional Stacy Cox became the new president of the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives (CSHAE). Cox was appointed to the leadership position during board meetings that preceded the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace event in the Bahamas.

CDB ANNOUNCES 2017 CHALLENGE FOR TCI YOUTH

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), through its youth outreach programme, VYBZING, launched a contest for young people of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). Those between the ages of 16 and 29 were invited to take part in the Snapchat Story Challenge, an interactive initiative that aimed to engage youths on the topic of creative entrepreneurship.

MUNICH OLYMPIC SURVIVOR SHARES HIS STORY

Dan Alon, survivor of the 1972 Munich Olympic Massacre was in the Turks and Caicos Islands, speaking at the Brayton Hall in Providenciales on his experience during that tragic day. The 72-year-old Munich Olympic survivor’s world was shattered on January 5 of that year when a group of terrorists called Black September invaded the building where

PREMIER A HYPOCRITE FOR IGNORING SERVICE CHARGE AMENDMENT BILL - ROYAL ROBINSON

LOCAL AUTHORITIES CAPTURE OVER 40 DOMINICAN POACHERS

More than 40 Dominican poachers were arrested and taken into police custody after they were found with a large quantity of fish on board a fishing vessel. The white vessel, bearing the name ‘Captain Blaze’, about 80 feet, contained a number of dinghies and over 39,000 pounds of mainly fish. According to a police statement, as marine police approached the vessel, the poachers attempted to evade capture and as a result, officers took action to bring the vessel to a stop.

SUNNY FOODS DEFENDANTS EACH SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS After three hours of deliberation, the sevenmember jury in the Sunny Foods trial came back with a verdict of guilty on all counts for the three defendants. On March 23, news of the verdict broke after the extended trial of the three Haitian men. Over these past several weeks 33-year-old Reginald Presil, 32-year-old Fritzer Prevalus, and Wilbert Almonor were on trial for offences stemming from the April 10 robbery and shooting at the Sunny Foods supermarket.

DELANO WILLIAMS FOUNDATION CONTRIBUTES TO SPORTS IN THE TCI

In keeping with their mandate for sports in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Delano Williams Foundation (DWF), made cheque donations to the Clement Howell High School and the Helena Jones Robinson High School. Representatives of the schools were presented with cheque donations of $1,000 each on March 14 at the National Stadium in Providenciales. Founder of DWF, Delano Williams himself, stated that these funds were donated in an effort to improve the sporting programmes at the schools.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 PREMIER CALLS ON SOCIETY TO GIVE EX-CONS A SECOND CHANCE

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson pleaded with employers and members of the community to give people who have served their time in prison a second chance at leading a law-abiding and productive life. The premier has consistently called for increased rehabilitative initiatives to be put in place so as to help ex-prisoners with their reassimilation into society. On March 22, she reminded that the Government is committed to putting a national rehabilitation program in place that the territory can expect soon.

BEACHES TCI INVITES LOCALS TO ATTEND FREE TRAINING IN TRADITIONAL FOLK ART

Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa planned to embark on a new training workshop. It will equip young Turks and Caicos Islanders with the skills needed to become entertainers in traditional folk art from stilt walking to fire breathing.

APRIL PRIVY COUNCIL DISMISSES AKITA HOLDINGS’ APPEAL AGAINST TCIG CIVIL RECOVERY CLAIM Her Majesty’s Privy Council dismissed an appeal by Akita Holdings Ltd against the Turks and Caicos Islands Government in a civil recovery case. The ruling, which was handed down in London on March 27, affirmed the 2014 decisions of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. Akita Holdings Ltd holds the majority of the land where its fuel storage and related facilities in South Dock, Providenciales resides, on trust for the Government.

GOVERNMENT DISPELS RUMOURS OF HAITIANS BEING FORCED TO EAT FROM GARBAGE DUMPS

Minister of Health Edwin Astwood dispelled rumours that Haitians are being forced to eat from garbage dumps in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The minister’s comments followed the circulation of a video purportedly originating from an investigative story by the international news network Aljazeera. The video detailed the hardship and plight many Haitian migrants face after their treacherous sea journey to the Turks and Caicos shores in search of a better life. In the video several Haitian migrants were seen scavenging through garbage at a dumpsite on Providenciales in search of food and other useful discarded household items.

COURT REFUSES TO RELEASE MICHAEL MISICK’S MONEY

In its refusal to release funds for Michael Misick’s living expenses, the Supreme Court cited his lavish 50th birthday party, his massive re-election campaign, and a number of other expensive habits he has maintained since being returned to the TCI. The March 23 judgement followed an application by Misick’s lawyer Queen’s Counsel Jerome Lynch and a subsequent hearing held on February 17. The matter was heard before Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale with Special Prosecutor for the SIPT cases Andrew Mitchell QC representing the Crown.

GOV’T TO LAUNCH NEW WORK PERMIT PROCESSING SYSTEM

The Government announced it is in the final stage of developing a new work permit management system that is designed to bring about and make changes in the submission, processing and issuance of work permits. Key features of the new system include the entry and submission of all data and supporting documents pertaining to work permit applications online by the employer or their delegate, electronic approval of labour clearances and work permits and automated responses to clients when key decisions are made. In addition is the issuance of a more secure, machine readable, work permit ID card to work permit holders and dependents who are qualified to be endorsed.

‘CHANGE GOVERNMENT’ MUM ON LEGISLATIVE AGENDA – ROYAL ROBINSON

PNP’s Chairman Royal Robinson accused the three-month old PDM Government of reneging on several critical promises made to the people on its touted 100 day plan. Robinson in two separate releases bashed the Government for not delivering on its promises. One such promise cited by the Progressive National Party’s chairman, was the crafting of a legislative agenda which would update and introduce new laws essential for a growing territory.

LABOUR OFFICERS ARRESTED ON SUSPICION OF FORGED WORK PERMITS

Two female employees of the Ministry of Border Control and Labour were arrested on suspicion of forged work permit documents on March 27. The investigation was part of a joint crackdown launched by detectives of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Financial Crime Unit and the Integrity Commission. The Crime Unit launched an investigation into a number of allegations of forged Turks and Caicos Islands work permits that had been issued to a number of persons within the Haitian and Dominican communities.

NHIP APPEALS TRIBUNAL RESTORED DURING FIRST 100 DAYS

The National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) appeals tribunal was restored, and all the required budgetary provisions made for the setting up of a Health Regulatory Authority. This was revealed by Minister of Health Edwin Astwood on TApril 4 at a press conference where he updated the media and

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the public on the ministry’s accomplishments during his first 100 days in office.

UNEMPLOYMENT AND CONSTRUCTION TO SEE MAJOR SHIFTS IN NEXT FEW YEARS

Unemployment in the TCI is expected to decline over the next few years, with expected growth in construction. This Fiscal Strategic Policy Statement (FSPS) tabled in the House of Assembly stated that the unemployment rate, which is currently estimated to be less than 10 percent, is substantially lower than the 17 percent in 2012 which was calculated from data obtained during the last census. The decline is said to be due to the increased participation in the territory’s growth by increasing number of residents.

GOVERNMENT TO MAKE HOSPITAL CONTRACTS AUDIT PUBLIC

The contractual agreement between InterHealth Canada and the previous Government was being scrutinised. Minister of Health Edwin Astwood on April 4 disclosed that his administration was in the process of conducting a comprehensive review of the health sector and several statutory bodies. InterHealth Canada has been a source of considerable controversy since it was awarded the contract to build and manage the TCI’s two hospitals back in 2008.

GUN-TOTING BANDITS ROB TOURIST OF VALUABLES, RENTAL CAR

On April 8, a 41-year-old tourist was relieved of several personal items and a rental vehicle by bandits. At around midnight, after dropping his family off to a beach near the resort on Stubbs Road in the Lower Bight, the man went to park his vehicle in the parking lot where he was approached by three men all dressed in black clothing. They pointed a black and grey handgun and a rifle at him before taking away his sunglasses, cellular phone and the 2007 Blue Suzuki Swift rental car licence plate number TC7599.

PDM SET TO ROLL OUT $2.1M BLUE HILLS MASTERPLAN

The long touted plan to completely overhaul the Blue Hills community will see major works being carried under the current administration in this financial year. That was the promise of Goldray Ewing, elected member for that constituency, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning.

FIVE CAYS FATHER GUNNED DOWN

POLICE INVESTIGATE DOUBLE SHOOTING IN KEW TOWN

Two men were shot and wounded in Kew Town, Providenciales, during the early hours of April 5. The first incident happened at about 2.15am in an area known as the ‘Trap’ in Kew Town. When emergency services arrived on the scene they found a 27-year-old man who was lying on the ground screaming in pain with what appeared to be blood and two wounds on his upper torso. The man was rushed to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where he remained in a stable condition. Just five minutes after that incident police met with a 25-year-old man who had a visible wound to his right leg.

MAN GETS SEVEN YEARS FOR GUN POSSESSION

Investigations were launched into the fatal shooting of Delano Ferguson also known as ‘Big Red’ on April 7 in Five Cays. During the same incident in which the 33-year-old father was shot and killed, another man, 38-year-old Godeano Missick of Grand Turk, also suffered gunshot injuries. Police reported that sometime after 9pm on the night in question, a 911 operator received a call stating that gunshots were heard in the area of Granny Hill and that someone was shot. Upon arrival at the scene of the crime, Ferguson was found lying on the ground unresponsive.

GOVERNMENT FLIP FLOPPED ON PERMIT FEES - ROBINSON

A Blue Hills man was on April 6 sentenced to seven years in prison for a November 2016 incident in which he was found threatening someone with a firearm. After three hours of deliberations in the Grand Turk Supreme court, Juvy Inelus was found guilty of the charges of carrying/ keeping a firearm and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear. Two of the seven years were suspended.

Chairman of the Opposition Royal Robinson condemned the Government for hiking up the residency permit fees some 30 percent. Robinson, who is also the opposition’s appointed member in the House of Assembly, said on April 12 that Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in a total about face, substantially increased her revenue intake.

NO MORE MONEY FOR FENCING OF LEEWARD FITNESS PARK

POLICEMAN CHARGED IN 2016 SUNNY FOODS ROBBERY

The Green Fitness Park in Leeward is not one of the Government’s priorities, according to Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning, Goldray Ewing. Ewing on April 3 dismissed a question by elected member for Leeward and Long Bay, Akierra Missick about fencing of her constituency’s new park. The minister in response to the member’s question in the House of Assembly, stated that his Government had other priorities.

A fourth man, this one a 30-year-old officer of the law, was arrested and charged before the court with conspiracy to commit robbery. The charge stemmed from the April 10 robbery and shooting incident at the popular Five Cays supermarket.

BANDITS KICK DOWN DOOR AND TERRORISE SLEEPING FAMILY

Barking dogs awakened a sleeping family on April 7 at about 3.09am, just seconds before

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 armed bandits kicked in their front door and stormed their bedroom. The victims, residents of Hope Street in Grace Bay, were then accosted by the invaders, who demanded their wallet and other valuables. One bandit pointed a gun at the victims while the other took their backpacks and relieved them of two cellular phones, an iPad 2 and a wedding band set.

BREXIT STILL A PRESSING CONCERN FOR TCI, SAYS PREMIER

Brexit is still an urgent concern for the Turks and Caicos Islands since the territory is a beneficiary of European Union (EU) funding. Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in a press statement issued on April 12 said that the Turks and Caicos Islands and all other overseas territories will undoubtedly be affected by the decision. On June 23, 2016, the people of Britain voted for a British exit, or Brexit, from the European Union in a historic referendum.

PRATT’S ELECTION PETITION DISMISSED AS STUBBS-SMITH KEEPS HER SEAT

On April 20, Chief Justice Margaret RamsayHale dismissed the elections petition which disputed the final results of the December 15 polls for the electoral district six (The Bight). In the elections, the petitioner, PDM candidate George Pratt lost to PNP elected member Porsha Stubbs-Smith after a tie breaker resulted in her being declared the winner. Speaking with the press after the court’s decision, Pratt said that he was happy the matter is over.

CAR ACCIDENT CLAIMS THE LIFE OF TEENAGE BOY

towards a Mango Reef restaurant employee. In a recorded phone call posted on social media an American woman accuses staff at the resort of stealing her cell phone. Her voice can be heard saying, “You’re a n*gger, you dumb n*gger,” and, “This is actually fun for us. This is going to be hell for you.”

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION CALLS FOR SHANTY TOWNS TO BE ERADICATED

Leader of the Opposition Washington Misick called for the eradication of shanty towns across the Turks and Caicos Islands. He said the settlements are unsightly and impact badly on the territory’s tourism. Misick, in the House of Assembly on April 18 during his budget rebuttal, said he was worried that the unpleasant environments would damage the Turks and Caicos Islands’ image. He added that the new administration should make the eradication of shanty towns a priority.

FEMALE PRISON WARDENS SEXUALLY MOLESTED AND ASSAULTED BY MALE INMATES

Two female officers stationed at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk were sexually assaulted by inmates. On April 23, inmate Clifford Gibson - who is serving a life sentence for the murder of a 16-year-old school boy killed in January 2008 - accosted a female guard by grabbing her in her private area. She reportedly pushed him away and punched him. However, Gibson, on seeing another female warden, is alleged to have grabbed her by the derriere.

PNP CALLS FOR TOURISM MINISTER TO RESIGN

Mario Powell, a 15-year-old high school student, lost his life in a car accident on April 19. The incident happened on South Dock Road in Providenciales after the vehicle he was a passenger in crashed into a stationary garbage truck. Powell was pronounced dead on the scene.

MEMPHIS COUPLE ACCUSED OF RACIST RANT WHILE VACATIONING IN THE TCI

Former Tourism Minister Porsha StubbsSmith called for the incumbent Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs to resign from office with immediate effect amid a “conflict of interest” concern. In an impromptu meeting in front of the Office of the Integrity Commission (IC) on April 26, Stubbs- Smith called for the minister’s resignation before filing an official compliant with the IC. According to Stubbs-Smith’s allegation, Higgs negligence to declare the accurate cost of the Silver Palms Hotel and Promenade project, located in Bottle Creek, North Caicos, during his budget presentation was sufficient justification for him to step down.

‘NO-GO ZONES’ DO NOT EXIST IN THE TCI, SAY POLICE

Holidaymakers Lauren Loeb and her husband Joe Marelle were accused of threatening and making racist statements over the phone

There are not any ‘no-go zones’ in the Turks and Caicos Islands, said the Commissioner of Police James Smith after rumours surfaced that there were areas in Providenciales that police feared to enter. These sentiments were expressed during a police press conference held at the police headquarters in Providenciales on April 27.

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He said: “I know that we have had many operations in Dock Yard, Five Cays and in Kew Town, along with other places. The outcome has been very positive.”

CRIME IS DOWN BY 14%, SAYS COMMISSIONER OF POLICE

Crime in the Turks and Caicos is down by 14 percent, said Commissioner of Police James Smith in a press conference at the police headquarters in Providenciales on April 27. Commissioner Smith broke down the numbers from 2016-17, stating that during that time period a total of 2,626 crimes had been reported in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He added that for the 2015-16 year there were 3,068 crimes reported for all islands, which means 442 victims fewer for the year.

BACK TO OUR ROOTS CAMPAIGN SEES ISLANDERS REINTRODUCED TO THEIR CULTURE

In an effort to reintroduce the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands to their traditions and disappearing culture, the Government geared up to launch a ‘Back to our Roots’ campaign. This initiative takes a multi-sector approach since both the Department of Culture and Ministry of Education will be spearheading the planning and implementation process.

MAY SIPT TRIAL WILL LIKELY PLOUGH ON INTO 2018 - CROWN PROSECUTOR

While the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team’s (SIPT) trial of Michael Misick and several others from all appearances appeared to be laboriously dragging on, the lead prosecutor assured that progress was being made in it drawing to a conclusion. The Weekly News spoke with the Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell on May 3 outside of the Supreme Court’s annex on Leeward Highway when he gave this assurance. However, while Mitchell is confident of the progress being made, he was almost as certain of it not coming to close in 2017.

COLLIN DELANCY JNR GETS 12 YEARS FOR MANSLAUGHTER IN SAILING PARADISE KILLING

stealing $40,000 in jewellery and cash from a Providenciales hotel room. Jamal Thompson Missick and Paul Missick raided the Ocean Club East condo in July 2016 as guests slept inside. On the day in question at about 1.58am, one of the victims contacted 911 and reported that two men entered their hotel room and stole over $5,000 in cash, two Rolex watches, along with an engagement ring and IDs. One victim, Shameka Watson, told the police that one of the culprits was being restrained by her boyfriend, Tyshawn Corbett.

LIGHTBOURNE CALLS PRISONERS RELOCATION TO GREEN DOOR FACILITY A GRAVE MISTAKE

Member of Parliament George Lightbourne called Cabinet’s decision to relocate prisoners to the Green Door facility a grave mistake. Lightbourne urged Governor John Freeman to reconsider and rescind and seek an alternative solution. The Green Door is located on the same property as the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College in Grand Turk. Lightbourne stated that it is apparent that no serious consideration was given to the impact and effect of the college sharing the same property as a jail.

HIGGS SAYS HE WILL NOT RESIGN

Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs says he would not resign, calling the PNP’s former tourism minister’s ploy to besmirch his character ‘unfortunate and reckless’. The incumbent tourism minister in a letter to the media attempted to clear the air on damning allegations made against him. He described the vitriolic attack on his character as malicious.

WOMAN DIES AFTER BEING STRUCK BY WATER TRUCK

The life of a 55-year-old Dominican woman was cut short on May 4 after she was knocked down by a water truck, in Blue Hills. The woman, who was affectionately known by the Dominican community as ‘Reyita,’ was a long-time resident of Providenciales.

POLICE SEIZE FILES FROM MINISTRY OF BORDER CONTROL

Collin Delancy Jnr was on May 4 found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 12 years in prison. He and his co-accused appealed their convictions following the 2013 trial into the murder of Dominican barmaid Santa Suarez Ramirez. They both won retrials. Delancy Jnr and his co-accused Lavardo Smith were first charged, convicted and sentenced in 2013 with the death of the Sailing Paradise bartender.

OCEAN CLUB HOTEL ROBBERS FOUND GUILTY

Two men were found guilty on May 3 of

Police seized several files from the Ministry of Border Control and Employment as an investigation into alleged malpractice morphed into a rigorous effort to weed out corruption. The investigation is part of a joint crackdown launched by detectives of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Financial Crime Unit and the Integrity Commission. It stemmed from allegations of forged Turks and Caicos Islands work permits that have been issued to several people within the Haitian and Dominican communities.

GRAND TURK MAN, 21, GETS EIGHT YEARS FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER

Leonard Pratt of Grand Turk was sentenced to

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 eight years in prison for a brutal and terrifying attempted murder. During the assault in Blue Hills, Providenciales, the 21-year-old held a gun to his victim’s head and pulled the trigger – but fortunately it failed to fire. Pratt pleaded guilty to the horrifying crime when he appeared in court this week and was subsequently sentenced on May 9.

The resort will feature 41 studio suites, one and two bedroom cottages – ranging from 600 to 1,750 square feet and priced from $600,000 to $1.4 million. The centre of attraction of the resort will be a dramatic, secluded beach, an oversized pool perched on a 25-ft limestone cliff and a restaurant and bar, spa, fitness centre and arrival pavilions perched on the hilltop.

ELIZA SIMON’S PRIMARY SCHOOL GETS $2.5M ANNEX

GOV’T CLOSES UNLICENSED BUSINESSES STORES, BARS AND RESTAURANTS IN GRAND TURK

Eliza Simon’s Primary School in Grand Turk is set to get a new state-of-the-art two-storey annex to the tune of $2.5 million. A corner stone laying ceremony for the new block was held in Grand Turk on May 17 despite the inclement weather. Wesley Clerveaux, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, told the Weekly News that the new annex will be used to foster the ministry’s vision of advancing information communication technology in schools.

GRAND TURK’S SANDBAR DESTROYED BY FIRE

Sandbar, a popular restaurant and hangout spot in Grand Turk, was completely destroyed by fire on May14. Although details are still sketchy, the blaze of unknown origin completely burned down the bar according to police. An investigation was launched in an effort to ascertain the cause of the fire.

CABINET CONCERNED ABOUT STATUTORY BODIES

Cabinet expressed serious concern about budgetary and wider management issues of a number of the statutory bodies in the Turks and Caicos Islands. On May 17 members reviewed the fourth quarter financial report for the financial year 2016-17 (January to March 2017) which looked at the financial performance of the TCI statutory bodies.

GRACE BAY RESORTS LAUNCHES $55M DEVELOPMENT

A roughly $55 million investment, designed to be developed on the elevated limestone peaks of Providenciales’ northern shore, became the latest addition to the Grace Bay Resorts brand.

Several businesses in Grand Turk were forced to cease operations after a Government task force conducted a major crackdown on unlicensed stores and restaurants. The ‘Joint Compliance Task Force’ operation which got underway on May 17 saw a number of establishments that were operating in breach of the Business Licensing Ordinance being closed. An official at the Revenue Department told the Weekly News that the overall mission of the task force is to maintain a compliant community to ensure the safety and protection of all residents.

JUNE BURGLARS BREAK INTO DDME’S PROVO OFFICE

‘Critical equipment’ used to protect the public in the case of an emergency was stolen - just days before the start of hurricane season. Several items including radios, computer monitors and phones were taken from the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME)’s Providenciales office on May 30. According to a press release, staff returned to the Leeward Highway building following the National Heroes Day holiday when they discovered the break-in. They alerted the police immediately.

BIPARTISAN SUPPORT FOR HOTEL, RESTAURANT AND TOURISM TAX BILL

An amendment to the Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Tax Ordinance to require restaurants to remit the taxes they derive from the deposits made on cancelled bookings and to keep proper records was passed in the House of Assembly. Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson read the amended bill in the House on May 30 calling for the full support of the assembly. In short, the amended bill sought to correct “mischief” by imposing certain duties on the part of proprietors causing them to keep records and dealing out penalties for noncompliance.

‘CUT THE MUSIC OR FACE ACTION’- DOUG PARNELL THREATENS KEW TOWN BARS

Operators of bars and restaurants in Kew Town, Providenciales, were called on to cut down on or entirely cut out loud music and partying on Sundays. And if the advice was not heeded action would be taken by the Government to ensure that the day remained sacred. That was the warning issued to owners and operators of establishments in the area, by elected member for the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill constituency, Doug Parnell, during an address in the House of Assembly

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on May 31.

PASTOR STONE AND WIFE ROBBED AT GUNPOINT

lungs and other vital organs. The Grand Turk resident hoped that her non-violent protest would lead to help with her medical condition and start a conversation among senior Government officials on wider political issues.

DEPUTY POLICE COMMISSIONER INTRODUCES POLICE CODE OF ETHICS

Pastor Andrew Stone and his wife Glenda Stone of the Church of God of Prophecy in Blue Hills were robbed at gunpoint by masked men during a home invasion. The incident took place on May 30 at about 3.22am in Blue Hills, Providenciales. The victims told officers that at about 11.25pm the previous night they secured their home and went to bed. They were awakened by the shattering sound of glass in their back door being broken by a rock. Two slim built masked men entered the home and pointed guns at the couple while demanding money.

FORMER CLEMENT HOWELL STUDENT BECOMES SENATOR IN THE BAHAMAS

A former Clement Howell High School pupil was appointed as one of four opposition senators in the Bahamas. Attorney at law JoBeth Coleby Davis along with three other senators received their instruments of appointment during a swearingin ceremony at Government House, Nassau, on May 23.

BABY BOY DEATH SPARKS QUESTIONS ABOUT NHIP COVERAGE

The death of a premature baby boy on June 4, attracted the attention of the premier and the National Health Insurance Board after an online furore broke out about health coverage. The baby, who is the son of two popular local personalities, passed away due to complications with his birth that could not have been attended to at the TCI Hospital. Konnor Smith was set to be airlifted overseas for treatment, but passed away before the arrangements were finalised.

POLITICAL ACTIVIST GOES WITHOUT FOOD FOR TWO WEEKS

Grand Turk’s Valerie Jennings had not eaten anything in two weeks in a protest against Government inaction on personal, social, political and economic issues. She embarked on her hunger strike on May 22 and regularly visited the Governor’s Waterloo residence to make her plight known. Jennings wrote in a letter to the Weekly News that she was battling the degenerative disease muscular dystrophy which causes muscle weakness, and can affect the heart,

New Deputy Police Commissioner, Trevor Botting, introduced a code of ethics intended to guide police on the many aspects of their profession. The document is available to the members of the public online and discusses the integrity of officers, leadership skills and abilities, respect, selflessness and honesty. Residents are encouraged to have a thorough read through the code of ethics document available to the public online at www.tcipolice.tc/code-of-ethics

CONVICTED RAPIST GETS THIRD TRIAL FOR SAME CRIME DUE TO MISSING DOCUMENTS

Lincoln Smith, a man convicted twice already of the almost two-hour long rape of a Dominican woman back in 2010, will get a third shot to prove his innocence. The decision came down on June 14 in the Court of Appeal after arguments by Smith’s counsel, Oliver Smith about some missing documents related witness testimony and questions about the judge’s summation of the second trial. Smith was convicted in the first trial and sentenced to nine years of imprisonment. He was convicted on the strength of his DNA being found on the victim. Smith appealed the conviction, won and a retrial was ordered. He was convicted again in the retrial and sentenced to 10 years.

FISH FRY TO RELOCATE TO NEW VENUE, SAYS PREMIER

After five successful years at the Children’s Park in The Bight, the popular island Fish Fry will be relocated to a more spacious venue. Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said that the new location is a three acre lot, adjacent to Beaches Resort and Spa in Providenciales. She said: “Moving ahead with the home for The Bight Fish Fry, the tender has been completed for that one.”

GOVERNMENT REJECTS PNP SERVICE CHARGE BILL

The PDM Government has rejected a parliamentary bill brought by the PNP Opposition to stating that all tips should go to hospitality staff. On June 13 when the House of Assembly convened, members voted on whether the private member’s bill put forward by Royal Robinson (PNP) could proceed any further in the House. Ten resounding votes of no, with Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson leading the chorus, echoed across the air waves from the Grand Turk based NJS Francis Building. The two Governor’s appointed members Tueton Williams and John Phillips - promptly abstained from voting, while the six PNP members voted yes.

DDME HOSTS HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CULINARY COOK-OFF

Three groups of students from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College participated in the second annual hurricane

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 season culinary cook-off. The event was held on June 13 at the Providenciales branch of the college and was hosted by the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME), in collaboration with the school. The theme for the initiative was, ‘Do you know how to cook a nutritionally balanced meal with limited food sources?’

CONNOLLY ‘DISAPPOINTED’ OVER DISMISSAL

NHIP CEO FIRED

The chief executive officer of the National Health Insurance Board was ousted. Reliable sources confirmed that Zaneta Burton had already been replaced by Dr Hamlet Nation as new acting CEO. Government officials remained quiet on details surrounding Burton’s termination. However, since Burton’s appointment as CEO in 2011, a plethora of criticism befell the National Health Insurance Plan coupled with deteriorating financial conditions.

Former education minister Josephine Connolly said she was bitterly disappointed that the opportunity to help her people had been taken away from her. She was terminated as education minister because of what she described as “false allegations” of undermining the premier. Connolly, in a press release, made it clear that she was extremely saddened by the entire ordeal. She said that the premier’s termination of her appointment was unjust.

JULY US TOURIST SHOT IN GRACE BAY ROBBERY

PREMIER DEFENDS FIRING OF JOSEPHINE CONNOLLY

On June 15, a shocking development within the corridors of the Government rocked the Turks and Caicos Islands as news of the abrupt firing of PDM elected member Josephine Connolly made the rounds of social media. The move was authorised and signed by Governor John Freeman, upon the advice of Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. The premier defended her actions, stating: “I have unfortunately arrived at a place where I have had to ask His Excellency the Governor to revoke the appointment of Hon Josephine Connolly. “At this juncture, I will say that I thank Hon Connolly for her acceptance of my offer to serve in Cabinet and believe that she will continue to do for the people of this country as they have become accustomed.”

Government to address the escalating crime forthwith.

JOGGER ROBBER PLEADS GUILTY

Steve Remy Gardiner, 21, who was arrested for robbing two female joggers pleaded guilty to robbery and assault. On March 6 two women who were running in two different areas of Providenciales were attacked. At about 6am by Gardiner demanded cash from the first female in the Lower Bight. Shortly after he drove down Leeward Highway where the second woman was seen. Gardiner ran across the road and tackled her to the ground, stealing her cell phone before escaping in a black SUV.

CONNOLLY ACCUSES PREMIER OF USING, DISRESPECTING AND DISCARDING HER

Former minister Josephine Connolly has called on Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson to reveal the real reason why she fired her from her position. At a press conference on June 23 Connolly revealed her shock and dismay at having her appointment revoked. She said she believed she was performing exceptionally well in the position, and also pointed out that her and the premier had always struggled to maintain a harmonious relationship.

BIOMETRICS LEGISLATION WILL BECOME A REALITY, SAYS GOV’T

GOVERNMENT TO REMOVE MEGA ONE TRITON WRECK BY DECEMBER

The Government said it was making a concerted effort to remove the Mega One Triton wreckage on Governor’s Beach in Grand Turk by December. This was revealed by the Minister of Tourism Ralph Higgs during a recent Government press conference on June 20. He said: “We continue to make significant steps in the removal of the boat on the beach and it is our desire to have the boat completely removed hopefully by the end of the year.”

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American tourist Kevin Newman was shot and robbed in Providenciales while vacationing with his family. According to a police statement, at about 1.43am on June 23 officers responded to a report of a shooting in Grace Bay. It was established that a man had been shot and was being treated at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre for a wound in the abdominal area.

GOVERNMENT ‘DOING NOTHING’ TO CUT CRIME

Former Premier Rufus Ewing said the Government was doing nothing to curb crime. His comments came in light of the robbery and shooting of a US tourist in Providenciales. Dr Ewing called on all residents with information concerning the violent crime to share their intelligence with the police or Crime Stoppers.

CRIME FIGHTING IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS, SAYS PREMIER

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said fighting crime has to be everyone’s responsibility. Her sentiments came on the heels of a violent attack against US tourist Kevin Newman, 38, in Grace Bay, Providenciales. The man from Smiths Station, Alabama, was robbed and shot on June 23 while on vacation with his wife Tiffany, 40, and his son Gavin. The incident sparked local and international outrage which saw many calling on the

The PDM Government fully intends to implement its biometrics programme which will be used as a crime fighting tool. Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson assured that the biometrics legislation will be coming on stream as one of the new crime fighting initiatives and tools, with public education following closely behind. Biometrics is the science and technology of measuring and analysing biological data.

RADAR STATION DETECTION RATE REMAINS HIGH ASTWOOD

The radar station in South Dock, Providenciales, continues to detect illegal vessels on TCI waters at an astonishingly high rate. That was according to Minister of Border Control and employment Sean Astwood who said contrary to the public’s misconception, the radar station is indeed functional and very effective. “I’ve seen a number of comments on social media and general conversation as I move around and interact and I wanted to make it clear to the people of the Turks and Caicos that with the introduction of the radar station, detection has been extremely successful. “The radar station continues to enjoy above 90 percent detection rate and I need to repeat that because it’s important for people to understand - we detect above 90 percent. “By any measurement, anywhere around the world, that is a success story.”

APPELLATE COURT DELAYS DAVID SMITH’S PRIVY COUNCIL APPEAL

Convicted Ponzi schemer David Smith has to wait until 2018 for a court hearing on his application to plead his case to Her Majesty’s Privy Council. The decision to adjourn the hearing was

handed down by the Court of Appeal when they met in Providenciales. Smith is seeking a reversal or dismissal of the appellate court’s recently released decision to dismiss his appeal of a judgement made by Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale.

GREEN DOOR FACILITY JUST A TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENT, SAYS PREMIER

The use of the Green Door facility in Grand Turk to house 18 low risk prisoners is merely a temporary arrangement until security work is completed at Her Majesty’s Prison. This clarification was made by Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson during an interview on Radio Turks and Caicos. The facility, which was formerly used as a hurricane shelter, is located on the same property as the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College in Grand Turk. This sparked outrage from locals who called the Government’s move to house prisoners in close proximity to the college, ‘reckless’.

POLICE AND IMMIGRATION OFFICERS CHARGED WITH CORRUPTION

Police officer Georgio Chambers and Adonni Garland, an assistant immigration officer, were arrested and charged with corruption by the Integrity Commission. Chambers was charged with three counts of corruption offences contrary to the Integrity Commission Ordinance. Garland was charged with one count of a corruption offence contrary to the Integrity Commission Ordinance.

NEW POSITIVE OUTLOOK FOR TCI WITH FOURTH BBB+ RATING

For the fourth time, the Turks and Caicos Islands maintained its impressive and investment friendly BBB+ rating from global ratings agency Standards and Poor’s. The good news came early on July 6, that the TCI is now on a path to “positive” growth - a new development in the rating, which the TCI was previously rated as having a “stable outlook”. The report states: “Following several years of strong performance, TCI’s economy will, we expect, steadily strengthen over the next three years.

FLIGHT OPERATIONS RESTRICTED IN SALT CAY

Flight operations to and from Salt Cay were restricted due to the expiration of its aerodrome certificate. That was according to terminal and marketing manager of TCI Airports Authority, Lavern Skippings.

CRONYISM AT PLAY IN SALT CAY AERODROME CLOSURE, EX-PREMIER ACCUSES

Former premier Rufus Ewing spoke out against the closure of the Salt Cay aerodrome due to a dilapidated runway, blaming the new Government for not following through on his administration’s plans. In a strongly worded statement to the press, Ewing stated that the closure was completely avoidable if the short-term plans for the redevelopment of the Turks and Caicos Islands airports were followed through.

COLLISION CLAIMS THE LIFE OF ANOTHER YOUNG PERSON

A young man was killed in a vehicle collision on Leeward Highway in Providenciales on

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 July 14. Devante Lewis, 18, was driving a Ford Mustang car when it collided with a Chevrolet Colorado truck in the vicinity of Central Square at about 1.05am. Lewis was fatally injured in the crash.

SIPT TRIAL: DICKENSON ADMITS TO BEING ‘STUPID’ IN $12.5M BELIZE BANK LOAN

Premier and Border Control Minister, Sean Astwood, on August 26 during a sitting of the House of Assembly. Astwood was at the time delivering his ministerial statement, just days after the seven month anniversary of the Government being sworn into office.

Yai on August 25 at 5.30am, just a few days before her scheduled departure date. According to a Thai news source, the young woman checked into the Lee Gardens Plaza hotel on August 21. Missick was a studying biomedical science at Keele University in the United Kingdom.

ISLANDERS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR ADVERTISED JOBS

MARRIAGE FOR IMMIGRATION STATUS IS ILLEGAL, GOV’T WARNS

Among the many Belongers whom were allegedly used by cohorts of the Michael Misick administration was Edwin Dickerson, owner of Olympic Construction Company. Dickerson testifyied in the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) trial about a $12.5 million loan from Belize Bank. He had signed the loan as guarantor for the controversial Juniper Hole development. Dickenson, who was a witness for the Crown, testified to being used to secure the massive loan from Belize Bank as he did not read the documents which locked him into the deal.

Deputy Premier Sean Astwood encouraged Islanders to apply for jobs they see advertised in the local newspapers as work permit applications hit a new high. Astwood, who was speaking in the House of Assembly on July 26, reported that the Labour Department continues to see “record numbers” of people applying for work permits. As such he called on local people to apply to for jobs and to be forefront during the many job fairs that are held throughout the territory. He encouraged: “Do not be deterred by the advertisement that is a requirement for a work permit renewal, a renewal is only possible if no Turks and Caicos Islanders apply.”

RITZ CARLTON GETS SET TO BUILD AS LOCAL HOTELS DROP APPEAL

NEW PUBLIC CONSULTATION POLICY UNVEILED

Local point-man for the Desarrollos Hotelco Group, Walter Gardiner, confirmed to the Weekly News that the developers were very happy that the lawsuit against the 12 storey development had been dropped, paving the way for construction to start. On July 20, Gardiner, speaking on behalf of the developers, said: “We’re very happy with the decision and we’re looking forward to commencing construction as soon as possible.” The news broke when another publication reported that The Tuscany and The Venetian Hotels (Strata Corporation controlled) had decided not to pursue their judicial review to Her Majesty’s Privy Council.

CONCH FARM WINS CLAIMS AGAINST GOV’T

The results of a long running civil lawsuit by owners and operators of the Conch Farm - Trade Wind Industries (TWI) - against the Government were revealed. The company won several of its claims and was awarded damages of $255,010, according to the Attorney General. But being far short of the original $100 million in damages sought, the Government declared that as a win.

MINISTER REPORTS HUGE RISE IN ILLEGAL MIGRANTS

Border control officers apprehended and repatriated 751 illegal migrants to date in 2017. Sean Astwood, Minister of Border Control and Employment, revealed the alarming figure during his ministerial statement in the House of Assembly on July 26. “In January alone, we had four boat arrivals and during the month of June, we were spared the arrival of nine,” he said. “This has to stop and it must stop now.”

The premier made a promise of greater consistency in the Government’s approach to engaging members of the public and key stakeholders on matters of national importance. The assurance was given on July 26 during a House of Assembly meeting, in which Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson unveiled a proposed public consultation policy.

LEVEL PLAYING FIELD FOR ALL ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS TOURISM MINISTER

The Government’s proposed policies to collect revenue from operators in the vacation villa rental sector will level the playing field for all accommodation providers in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This sentiment was expressed by Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs in the House of Assembly on July 26. He said that the Government’s plan to sign a memorandum of understanding with Airbnb will secure entry opportunities for local businesses which may seek to enter into this segment of the hospitality sector.

FORTIS UNVEILS $10.8M OPERATIONS AND ENGINEERING CENTRE

A new multi-purpose building that brings together the engineering and operational functions of FortisTCI under one roof, was officially opened on August 30. Dubbed the ‘Operations and Engineering Centre’, the new facility is a $10.795 million project constructed over a 20-month period.

Twenty-four days after the Government announced its plans to tackle the immigration issues in the territory, it reminded members of the public of the illegality of entering marriage to gain immigration advantage. On August 30, the Ministry of Border Control and Employment said that anyone who enters into a marriage designed to gain immigration advantage commits an offence. It is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 or a term of imprisonment of two years or to both.

A 23-year-old TCI woman fell to her death from a hotel room during a holiday in Thailand. The lifeless body of Maxine Vernice Missick was found by a motorcyclist in Hat

$250M NEEDED TO REBUILD TCI - WASHINGTON MISICK

About $250 million will be needed to rebuild the battered Turks and Caicos Islands, according to former finance minister Washington Misick In a statement the leader of the opposition chided the Government for not releasing its own cost estimate for damages sustained following the passage of hurricanes Irma and Maria. And he chastised Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson’s administration for not quickly formulating a viable recovery plan for the territory.

TCI SUSTAINED 79.6% DAMAGE TO ITS CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

OCTOBER CARIBBEAN COUNTS THE COST AFTER DEADLY HURRICANE SEASON

Dozens dead, homes and livelihoods destroyed, infrastructure wiped out and thousands of people left homeless. That was the scene across the Caribbean where countries and territories up and down the island chain were left counting the costs amid one of the worst Atlantic hurricane seasons on record. As Irma-ravaged TCI battled on to pick up the pieces, scenes of destruction were mirrored and magnified among its regional neighbours reeling from the passage of two catastrophic category five storms in a fortnight.

EWING CALLS BRITISH GOV’T ‘HYPOCRITICAL AND CONVENIENT’

Former premier Rufus Ewing labelled the UK government as “hypocritical and convenient” for neglecting the needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands following the catastrophic impact of hurricane Irma. Ewing, in a social media post on September 15 a few days after the storm, lashed out at the British government for opportunely categorising the TCI as a “foreign” and “wealthy” nation to avoid aiding the territory in its recovery efforts.

LOCAL PASTOR DIES PREPARING FOR HURRICANE MARIA

The Turks and Caicos Islands suffered 79.6 percent damage to its housing stock and critical infrastructure during the passage of hurricane Irma. This damning revelation was made by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) in its rapid assessment report post hurricane Irma. The report concluded that damage across the TCI was similar in nature and related largely to roof damage across three levels and total destruction of homes. A massive 2,693 of the total 6,382 developments across the territory received level one damage.

GOV’T TO DEMOLISH ALL ILLEGAL SUBSTANDARD DEVELOPMENT

All illegal substandard homes that could become flying debris during storms and cause further damage to other residences and buildings were set to be demolished. That was according to the Department of Planning which strongly advised residents to cease any reconstruction or repairs of illegal development across the Turks and Caicos Islands. A department press release on October 4, said that over 28 days all illegal development would be demolished and the rubble removed to an authorised location.

FORTISTCI REPORTS NO SERIOUS DAMAGE FROM MARIA

YOUNG TCI WOMAN DIES WHILE VACATIONING IN THAILAND

‘LEAVE NOW OR BE PROSECUTED AND DEPORTED’ - GOV’T WARNS ILLEGAL WORKERS

Migrant workers whose work permits and or visas expired had until August 15 to leave the Turks and Caicos Islands or be prosecuted and deported. The announcement came from the Deputy

continued

Joseph Higgs, a local pastor, fell to his death as he prepared his family home in the Bight, Providenciales, for hurricane Maria. The 66-year-old contractor and businessman from North Caicos was putting up storm shutters when he lost his balance and fell.

After hurricane Irma took out sections of TCI’s power grid, FortisTCI crews worked around the clock to restore electricity to residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The utility firm announced that no further major damage to the electricity infrastructure was caused as a result of hurricane Maria. The company reported that the only minor outages occurred during the passing of the storm to just a few of the nearly 4,000 customers whose electricity was restored following Irma.

ROYAL NAVY BRINGS SUPPLIES TO AID TCI’S RECOVERY

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 On October 1, the TCI media joined the governor, deputy governor, premier and several other government officials for a tour of the Royal Navy’s HMS Ocean ship moored just miles off the coast of Grand Turk. The vessel was deployed to assist the United Kingdom’s Caribbean overseas territories following the passage of Irma. It arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands on September 30, with crew members that were deployed across the family islands to assist in the recovery efforts following the two major hurricanes.

TCI UNITES FOR POST HURRICANE CLEAN-UP

The corporate community along with residents participated in a clean-up campaign for the communities that were most greatly affected by hurricane Irma. The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources along with the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association and the Chamber of Commerce collaborated with residents to conduct the clean-up.

DECR CONDUCTS CAMP FOR DISPLACED CHILDREN

The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) arranged a children’s camp for students who were displaced due to damage to schools after hurricane Irma. Children between the ages of seven and 17 were welcomed to the DECR’s headquarters in Providenciales to take part in a list of activities. Environment outreach coordinator for DECR, Amy Avenant, explained that the motive behind the camp was to keep the children as occupied as possible.

HURRICANE IRMA BROUGHT RECORD NUMBER OF C-SECTIONS

for processing and more than 80 more illegal migrants remain on West Caicos awaiting transportation to the processing unit in Providenciales.

CRUISE SHIPS TO RETURN FROM NOVEMBER 1

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson reported that the Grand Turk Cruise Centre would begin taking cruise ships from November 1. The premier said that to lend to a welcoming look to the territory’s cruise ship capital, the Ministry of Finance committed to using the Infrastructure Fund to carry out critical works to ready the island for the return of ships.

FOOD DONATION REACHES MASSES

Pastor Kenneth Chukwu collaborated with volunteers from the community to provide hot meals and other necessities to the less fortunate. This was through a non-profit group called Good Neighbour’s Purse, founded by the pastor to help those in need throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. The non-profit set up the food distribution at the Downtown area in Providenciales on October 7.

SCORES OF ILLEGAL HAITIAN MIGRANTS ARRESTED

PREMIER CONDEMNS PRICE GOUGING

Taking the witness stand on October 16 was former first lady of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ex-wife of Michael Misick, LisaRaye McCoy. McCoy was summoned to testify before a TCI court in the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) trial that is currently underway, but had initially refused to cooperate with the prosecutors. However, under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) between the United States and Turks and Caicos Islands, McCoy was summoned by a US court to give testimony in the SIPT trial.

More than 150 illegal Haitian migrants were apprehended on the island of West Caicos after making landfall in the Turks and Caicos Islands on October 11. The Task Force within the Department of Immigration, along with police officials responded to reports received around midmorning that same day. As a result, about 81 people were apprehended and ferried to Providenciales

WEEKEND OF FUN TO HELP HEAL TCI

A mix of middle and senior managers and prison officers from the United Kingdom were working alongside local officers to restore order at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk. The deployment of the 22 ranks came on the heels of both hurricanes and a spate of incidents at the local facility.

About 57 illegal Haitian migrants were captured and detained as they attempted to enter the Turks and Caicos Islands through French Cay on October 17, according to sources. The week prior, on October 11, more than 150 illegal Haitian migrants were apprehended on the island of West Caicos after making landfall in the TCI.

MORE THAN 150 ILLEGAL MIGRANTS CAPTURED IN WEST CAICOS

in the yard.

UK PRISON OFFICERS JOIN LOCAL RANKS

Both Governor John Freeman and Chief of Medical Services of the TCI Hospital, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, reported an increase in caesarean section deliveries of babies as hurricane Irma raged through the TCI. Dr Freeman took the time to meet with Dr Braithwaite-Tennant and members of her team to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to British troops who worked alongside local hospital staff after Irma and during hurricane Maria, as they prepared to bid goodbye on October 7.

Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson condemned the actions of some unscrupulous merchants to exploit consumers during and after the hurricanes. The premier’s statement came amid reports that the prices of some goods were raised significantly as those affected by hurricanes Irma and Maria sought food, water and building supplies.

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US COURT SUMMONS UNWILLING EX-FIRST LADY TO TESTIFY IN TCI COURT

TODDLER FALLS TO DEATH

The life of a four-year-old boy tragically came to an end after he fell into a sewage well at his home in The Bight, Providenciales, on October 13. A police press release stated that at about 11.53am, police officers and emergency services responded to the scene where it was reported that the deceased and his twin brother were outside playing when he fell into the hole

The Hartling Group hosted two fun events at The Shore Club help raise money for the posthurricane recovery of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Relaxed revellers enjoyed a cocktail evening under the stars while energetic partygoers took to the pool where they were entertained by two popular DJs.

US ACTRESS TESTIFIES TO WHIRLWIND ROMANCE WITH MICHAEL MISICK

Scheme for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas).

WORK ONGOING TO ENSURE ALL AIRPORTS ARE SAFE

Work continued in order to restore all the TCI’s airports to a safe and functional operational standard, according to the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA). Following the passing of hurricanes Irma and Maria all airports within the TCIAA portfolio were affected. Chief executive officer John T Smith noted that notwithstanding the damage caused by the hurricanes, Grand Turk, South Caicos and outer islands remain a priority for the TCIAA.

FIRSTCARIBBEAN BANK DONATES $50,000 FOR HURRICANE RECOVERY

The TCI Red Cross has received a generous donation of $50,000 from CIBC FirstCaribbean bank to help support the charity’s hurricane recovery and relief efforts across the territory. At the handing over of the cheque on October 23, the bank’s country manager Larry Lawrence emphasised that the bank is committed to helping the community to see its way through this difficult period and to emerge stronger from these challenges.

NOVEMBER LABOUR OFFICER CHARGED WITH ISSUING FORGED WORK PERMITS

In her testimony before the SIPT court, US actress LisaRaye McCoy testified about her whirlwind, jet setting life with her ex-husband Michael Misick. She recalled that during their courtship days Misick told her that he owned several properties and businesses and that he was worth $108 or $180 million. McCoy testified to a courtship filled with trips around the world, frequent visits to the Turks and Caicos Islands, and telephone conversations that eventually led to a proposal of marriage from Misick shortly after they first started dating.

CUSTOMS DUTY EXEMPTION EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 31

Following disgruntled comments from residents on the length of the waiver of import duty, the governor and the premier extended the cut off from October 31 to December 31. Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson confirmed the extension to the Weekly News. She said the waiver had only initially been granted for six weeks because the Government had to take into account what could be done at the time, while keeping it under review.

CRITICALLY ENDANGERED CORAL SAVED AFTER HURRICANE DAMAGE

(Filename - Reef fund saves corals 4 - Hanging a fragment on the ladder) The Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF) and the TCIG’s Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), saved much of the critically endangered elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) damaged by the hurricanes. The work was funded through a European Union programme called BEST (Voluntary

A forty-eight-year-old labour officer was formally charged with 13 counts of issuing forged documents, one count of corruption and one count of use of criminal property. This came on the heels of an investigation and subsequent arrest in March of two employees from the Employment Services Unit in the Immigration Department.

GOVERNOR WEIGHS IN ON TELECOMS PROVISION POSTHURRICANES

In the wake of the two hurricanes, Governor John Freeman, in an exclusive interview with the Weekly News in late October, expressed concerns with the telecommunications issues experienced. One of the biggest challenges, aside from lack of electricity due to the destruction of key infrastructure, has been a lack of telephone and internet connectivity, he said. “I think personally one of the biggest points we have learned, and one area which is so obvious and it is irresistible to remark upon, is connectivity.”

HAITIAN GOV’T DONATES RELIEF ITEMS TO TCI

A large number of generators and building supplies were the latest aid donations received by the Turks and Caicos Islands Government. The Haitian government donated 630 generators, 1,000 sheets of plywood, 4,500 tarps, 2,000 sheet rocks and 4,000 metal roof sheets. The donation arrived in Providenciales on October 30, direct from Port Au Prince, Haiti.

OPPOSITION LEADER CALLS GOV’T NAIVE FOR ACCEPTING HAITI’S HURRICANE AID

Leader of the Opposition Washington Misick says accepting relief from Haiti is enabling

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 the exodus of Haitians to the Turks and Caicos Islands. In a strongly worded statement on November 2, Misick stated that the donation was made against the threat of the Government’s plans to eradicate illegal shanty towns where many Haitian immigrants reside. According to the opposition leader, this is a brilliant tactic by the Haitian government to allow its people to reside in the TCI.

substandard homes will be demolished and strongly advised residents to cease any reconstruction or repairs of these structures. But one month later, while speaking on radio show ‘Expressions,’ Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson admitted that the demolition and relocation is complicated and that it must be addressed holistically.

TCI TO BENEFIT FROM UK’S £13 BILLION RELIEF FUND

Governor John Freeman commended the growth in the economy of the Turks and Caicos Islands while also observing that there is definite room for growth within the financial sector. He pointed to the growth the territory has been experiencing over the past few years and the strides it has made allowing it to be one of few Caribbean islands that has been rated very well by international rating agencies.

The Turks and Caicos Islands along with several British overseas territories will now be eligible to receive official development aid. Changes were made to international rules which previously barred the territories from UK financial aid as they were deemed too rich. Amendments agreed in Paris by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). These changes will now enable the Turks and Caicos Islands to benefit from a £13 billion relief fund to aid in the territory’s recovery.

GOVERNOR FREEMAN RECOUNTS FIRST TIME HURRICANE EXPERIENCE

John Freeman told the Weekly News that his biggest challenge during his 12-month tenure as Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands was the two major hurricanes from which the Islands is still recovering. “I think it has got to be the hurricanes - not the politicians no, I am used to dealing with politicians,” he laughingly replied to our query. “I never expected the hurricanes and I have not experienced it before,” he said. Dr Freeman’s official residence in Grand Turk was severely damaged during the hurricanes, and luckily, he had weathered the storms in Providenciales.

RAISING PRICES IN DIFFICULT TIMES IS AN ASSAULT, SAYS GOVERNOR

Unscrupulous business practices in the form of driving up prices in the aftermath of hurricanes is an assault, said Governor John Freeman. Governor Freeman was adamant about not condoning such actions, and has stated to this publication that he has assented to the Consumer Protection Legislation, passed in early October 2016, since October 31, 2016 and that its assent has been posted in the Gazette. It is now the responsibility of the Attorney General’s Chambers to bring the law into force.

GOV’T GRAPPLES WITH CHALLENGING SQUATTING ISSUE

TCI ECONOMY CONTINUES TO IMPROVE, SAYS GOVERNOR

IMMIGRATION OFFICERS CARRY OUT SICKOUT FOR WORKERS’ RIGHTS

Several irate immigration officers carried out a sickout on November 5 to demonstrate their frustration with management. The protest caused operations at Providenciales International Airport to be disrupted just before the Southwest Airlines inaugural flight into the Turks and Caicos Islands was due. Only one officer reported to work while the others called in sick leaving multiple posts unattended. According to one immigration officer who spoke to the Weekly News, the industrial action was taken to demand better wages and outstanding overtime payment.

ASHCROFT PINPOINTED IN PARADISE PAPERS SCANDAL

A huge leak of financial documents threw Lord Michael Ashcroft once again into the spotlight. The UK-born billionaire businessman and TCI Belonger may have broken rules on how his offshore investments were managed, according to investigators. The documents also suggest that he retained his non-domiciled tax status while in the House of Lords, despite claiming he was resident in the UK.

TCI WELCOMES SOUTHWEST AIRLINES FROM FLL

The cost of flights to and from the US dropped to a record low in November. Southwest Airlines, the world’s largest lowcost carrier, became the latest to fly from Fort Lauderdale to the Turks and Caicos Islands with prices starting at $69 one way. Although the TCI was still recovering from the one-two punch of hurricanes Irma and Maria, that did not deter the airline from launching a daily nonstop service to the territory.

BREAST CANCER STILL DOMINANT CANCER IN TCI

Relocating residents from sub-standard illegal developments is a challenge, according to Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. On October 4, the Department of Planning announced that within 28 days all illegal

Breast cancer is still the most prevalent cancer in the Turks and Caicos Islands in 2017, according to president of the National Cancer Society (NCS), Rosemary Jolly. She shared this information during a press conference held at The Palms in Providenciales on October 31. Jolly said that the NCS currently assists less than 50 patients, although the numbers on the register are much higher.

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GOV’T MUZZLING VOICE OF OPPOSITION IN PARLIAMENT MISICK

Opposition Leader Washington Misick accused the Government of trying to muzzle the voice of the opposition by bulldozing through customary two minute speeches and not allowing enough discussion on important issues in parliament. During a House of Assembly meeting on November 8 Misick argued that it is due in part to the Government’s biased efforts to hush statements from elected minority representatives. “It’s been 11 months since this Government has been in office and it’s been twice we’ve had two minute speeches and twice the questions have been presented to ask,” he said.

SABRINA GREEN NEW DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

Former independent candidate Sabrina Green became the newly appointed director of the Human Rights Commission. The announcement was made at a press conference at the Human Rights Commission office in Providenciales on November 2. At the press conference, Green explained that from her understanding, many people are unaware of their human rights so one of her goals is to inform the public.

RITZ CARLTON EIA REPORT GETS MIXED REACTIONS AT PUBLIC MEETING

Residents expressed mixed reactions to the report of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) carried out by the Planning Department on the proposed Ritz Carlton Hotel. On November 9, the department hosted a public consultation meeting at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Centre in Downtown Providenciales to discuss the results of the EIA report for the Ritz Carlton Hotel development. At the meeting were several consultants who took the gathering through the results of the reports and answered questions.

ARIEL MISICK TESTIFIES BEFORE SIPT ABOUT WATER CAY LAND SALE

On the witness stand of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team’s (SIPT) trial was Ariel Misick, Queen’s Counsel and brother of two of the defendants in the trial. Misick answered questions related to the sale of Crown land to Aulden Smith in November 2003, and it being transferred to Aquarius Development and subsequently to a company named Ashley Properties. Misick’s law firm, Misick and Stanbrook, of which he is a senior partner, brokered the sale of the land to his client Peter Wehrli.

REAL GDP GROWTH NOW PROJECTED TO BE NEGATIVE

Projections of positive GDP growth for the TCI this year have been shelved following the passing of hurricanes Irma and Maria. “Prior to the hurricanes it was forecast that the TCI GDP would have experienced growth in the region of three and a half to four percent,” Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson reported to the House of Assembly on November 8. “From all indications, we were on track to achieve this level of growth. Resulting from the two hurricanes during the month of September, real GDP growth for 2017 is now forecast to be negative.”

PORTS DIRECTOR ARRESTED FOR UTTERING FORGED DOCUMENTS

Andy Robinson, Director of the TCI Ports Authority, was on November 10 arrested by police for questioning into allegations that he uttered forged documents. Police press officer Kevin Clarke told the Weekly News that Robinson was investigated by officers of the financial crimes unit and as a result of that he was arrested on suspicion of uttering forged documents and later placed on $50,000 police bail.

PUBLIC SERVANTS TO PAY BACK $2.6M SALARY ADVANCE OVER SIX MONTHS

The House of Assembly passed the Public Finance Salary Advance Temporary Provision Bill 2017, which was formulated for the repayment of the $2.6 million made in salary advances to civil servants in the month of September. The bill was presented by Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson on November 8. The special advance of $2.6 million represents one half month salary for each officer and was granted in September prior to the passage of hurricane Irma.

SIX STAR $100M LUXURY RESORT TO BE BUILT IN TURTLE COVE

Developers of a six star boutique resort in Turtle Cove are on track to break ground within six months.

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

YEAR IN REVIEW 2017 In a few months, potential investors will be invited to purchase condos at ‘The Cove Resort and Marina’, Sam Hunt of NW Hamilton Real Estate told the Weekly News. He said the developers – Circle Holdings Limited – already have planning permission, and have had it for a number of years. They are now at a stage where they are ready to get things moving and break ground within the latter part of the first quarter of 2018, or early in the second quarter, he revealed.

GRACE BAY RANKED MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACH IN THE WORLD

continued

BEACHES REOPENS ITS DOORS TO STAFF AND GUESTS

BLUE CAY ESTATE CELEBRATES CANAL OPENING

EMBATTLED FORMER AG’S APPEAL DISMISSED

A new ranking of the world’s 50 best beaches was released, with Grace Bay coming in at number one. “Grace Bay beach, in Turks and Caicos Islands is the most iconic and awe-inspiring stretch of sand in the world, and you’ll know you’ve set foot on one of the most spectacular beaches the moment you arrive.” These are the words of Canadian online travel agency FlightNetwork, which consulted with more than 600 travel journalists, editors, bloggers and travel specialists to weigh in on their favourite beach destinations. A frustrated Kurt De Freitas appeared before the Court of Appeal of the Turks and Caicos Islands on November 21, where he had his appeal against a decision of the Chief Justice dismissed. In spite of strenuous arguments that the current attorney general was abusing the process of the court in an objection to De Freitas’ appeal, the former chief legal advisor to the TCI was defeated in his attempts to be heard on the appeal by the three justices. The justices ruled that the former government advisor’s appeal was out of time, and that he has to take it back to the Supreme court to be regularised.

DECEMBER COURT ACQUITS CONVICTED THIEF DUE TO MISSING DOCS

Former senior customs officer Carl Gardiner, who was accused, tried and convicted of stealing a large sum of money from Butterfield Golds, was acquitted by the Court of Appeal. Gardiner appeared before the appellate judges for his appeal hearing, which had been pending since 2013 due to him not having legal counsel. Gardiner was tried and sentenced to six years in prison for stealing $130,000 from Butterfield Gold.

COURT OF APPEAL QUASHES CORTEZ SIMMONS’ MURDER CONVICTION

A case built entirely around circumstantial evidence and which was said not to be “sure win” by the prosecutor, was swiftly voided by the Court of Appeal. The three justices convened on November 27 to deliberate Cortez Simmons’ conviction and presented a swift judgement in quashing the conviction after reviewing written submissions. Simmons’ was convicted to life in prison for the murder of Kaziah Burke March 17, 2013.

at approximately $38 million, this puts our damage and losses at over half a billion dollars,” the premier shared.

LOW COSTS HOMES AND BETTER COMMUNICATION INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDED

Director of the Department for Disaster Management and Emergency (DDME), Dr Virginia Clerveaux, said low income housing and better communication infrastructure should be put in place following the devastation wrought by the two major hurricanes in September. In an interview with the Weekly News, Dr Clerveaux gave an assessment of the needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands post hurricanes, as well as a final assessment of the damages sustained to homes and critical infrastructure.

ABOUT 2% OF POPULATION LIVING WITH HIV

About 600 people in the Turks and Caicos Islands have been diagnosed with HIV, according to representative from the Health Promotion Advocacy Unit, Nora Tyndall. This information was shared during a special breakfast held in Providenciales to commemorate World Aids Day, which is celebrated on December 1 each year. She said: ¨Last year we had 24 new cases of HIV/Aids; to date for this year we have 17 persons.”

TCI TO TAP INTO MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR INDUSTRY

The Caribbean is rapidly emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for the multibillion dollar industry of business process outsourcing (BPO). And ready to tap into the trade is the Turks and Caicos Islands, according to Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. BPO is the contracting of the operations and responsibilities of a specific business process to a third-party service provider. It is worth a massive $140 billion and has a projected growth of $163 million by the end of 2021. According to the premier, the TCI has the political solidity and geographic positioning to take advantage of the industry.

Beaches Turks and Caicos officially opened its doors to guests and staff on December 14 at 9.30am. The resort reopened after a 10 week closure to allow for post-hurricane repairs. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, founder and chairman of Sandals Resorts International, said: “We know how important vacation time is and so we’re just delighted that Beaches Turks and Caicos is not only reopening its doors ahead of pace, but we’ve introduced some amazing new features making this award-winning resort better than ever.

TCI SUFFERS HALF A BILLION IN DAMAGES AND REVENUE LOSS

A sharp blow was dealt to the TCI’s economy by the two major hurricanes which pummelled the Islands in September, leaving more than half a billion dollars in damages and revenue loss. Sparse details of the UNDP and United Nations ECLAC report on the social and economic impact of the hurricanes on the TCI were on December 20 revealed by Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson at her Government’s one year anniversary press conference. According to the premier the Government is now in receipt of all critical reports and is gearing its energy towards finalising a detailed strategy for the territory’s recovery. “The UN ECLAC report has estimated our country’s damages at $289,625,726 and losses at $230 million with additional losses

The newest residential yachting community in Leeward - The Blue Cay Estate - celebrated the opening of its navigable canal. Conceived by the Windward Development Company, Blue Cay is a 16 home estate comprised of 12 canal-front and four oceanfront homes. Contemporary home designs by the architecture firm Blee Halligan have been crafted to maximise the homeowners’ appreciation for the beautiful flora and fauna surrounding the Leeward Channel and uninhabited cays. Only three home sites remain available for purchase.

AG SEEKS TO CLARIFY GOVERNOR’S STATUTORY BODY OVERSIGHT

Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles has offered what she deems a ‘clarification’ on the Government’s legislative proposal to grant the governor oversight over statutory bodies in the Turks and Caicos Islands. During a House of Assembly meeting on December 18, the attorney general stated that contrary to reports in the public domain, while the amendments remove the minister of finance and the permanent secretary from oversight over these organisations, the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands states that the governor would have to consult with the Cabinet at all times.

FORMER PREMIER BEMOANS SLOW RECOVERY OF ISLANDS

Former Premier Rufus Ewing said the Sharlene Cartwright Robinson led administration is either weak, incompetent or is ignorant of the authority and power that it has. Ewing made these remarks in a strongly worded statement a few days shy of the Government’s one year anniversary. He spoke of the Government’s approach to the territory’s rebuilding and recovery process after the hurricanes, and stressed that the slow pace of recovery on some islands is unsatisfactory.

January 6-12, 2018

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New UN Mission to take innovative approach to strengthening rule of law in Haiti

The first earthquake (left) occurred at 2:29 a.m. and the second followed at 2:54 a.m.

Two earthquakes occur off Trinidad less than 30 minutes apart TWO 4.5 magnitude earthquakes were recorded off Trinidad and Tobago in the early hours of this morning, less than a half hour apart. However, neither resulted in any damage or injury, according to initial reports. The University of the West Indies (UWI) Seismic Research Centre reported that the first one occurred around 2:29 a.m. Its location was put at 55 km north northwest of Trinidad’s capital, Port of Spain; 66 km northwest of Arima, Trinidad; and 95 km west of

Tobago’s capital, Scarborough. Some residents reported hearing a rumbling and feeling the tremor. Then 25 minutes later, the second one hit further away from Trinidad and closer to Venezuela – 115 km west southwest of Port of Spain; 80 km east southeast of Carúpano, Venezuela; and 107 km northeast of Maturín, Venezuela. The initial depth of both quakes was put at a 10 km – a fixed depth that is used when there is insufficient data to compute a reliable depth for an earthquake. (Caribbean360)

Google shifted $19bn to Bermuda in 2016

GOOGLE uses two structures, known as a “Double Irish” and a “Dutch Sandwich,” to shield the majority of its international profits from taxation. The set-up involves shifting revenue from one Irish subsidiary to a Dutch company with no employees, and then on to a Bermuda mailbox owned by another Ireland-registered company. The amount of money Google moved through this tax structure in 2016 was 7 per cent higher than the year before, according to company filings with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce dated December 22 and which were made available online yesterday. News of the filings was first reported by the Dutch newspaper Het Financieele Dagblad. “We pay all of the taxes due and comply with the tax laws in every country we operate in around the world,” a Google spokesman said in a statement. “We remain committed to helping grow the online ecosystem.” Google is under pressure from regulators and authorities around the world for not paying enough tax. Last year, the company escaped a €1.12 billion French tax bill after a court ruled its Irish subsidiary, which collects revenue for ads the company

sells in France, had no permanent base in the country. The European Union has been exploring ways to make US technology companies, many of which use similar tax shelters, pay more. The Irish government closed the tax loophole that permitted “Double Irish” tax arrangements in 2015. But companies already using the structure are allowed to continue employing it until the end of 2020. According to US financial filings, Google’s global effective tax rate in 2016 was 19.3 per cent, which it achieved in part by shifting the majority of its international profit to the Bermudian-based entity. The total pool of foreign earnings Google was holding overseas, free from taxation, was $60.7 billion at the end of 2016, the company said in its SEC filings. The US tax law passed last month would give companies such as Google an incentive to repatriate much of that cash by offering them a one-time, 15.5 per cent tax rate. After that, foreign earnings would be taxed at 10.5 per cent, although companies can deduct foreign tax liabilities from this amount.

THE head of the new United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti, known as MINUJUSTH, has said the operation will carry out its work in an innovative in the island nation – complete with an unusually tight timeframe and a bench-marking exit strategy. Describing what is unique about the mission, the Special Representative and Head of MINUJUSTH, Susan Page, underscored that it focuses “exclusively on the rule of law.” “The new mandate by the [UN] Security Council is to work with the Government of Haiti to strengthen its rule of law intuitions. It’s also to continue to support the HNP, the Haitian National Police, and to work on justice and human rights – and that includes human rights reporting, monitoring and analysis,” she told UN News. MINUJUSTH is also unique in that its mandate calls for a benchmarking exit strategy. “Within two years, we can figure out how we [will exit the country] but with benchmarks for progress that can be measured,” she stressed. The mission head stated that the country team created a framework with a focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which, along with SDG 16 – to promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies – is working in conjunction with the Haitian Government. “This is a way of bringing the entire country team together, along with the peacekeeping mission, to

The UN flag is raised at the opening ceremony for the new United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH).

attain those goals,” she continued, adding that the Government “has already signed up to be a partner in trying to accomplish this for its own development.” Page explained that while MINUJUSTH is almost exclusively based in the capital, Port-au-Prince, it will also have a ‘mobile approach’ that will take teams into the field – reaching the greatest number of people. The mission chief told UN News that the teams will focus on peace, justice and rule of law, to help the people figure out their needs, and then connect them with top-level political figures to see how the UN can help the Government address

those needs. “Once they have a baseline of what the people are looking for, what they need knowledge about, we hope that this bottom-up and topdown approach will help Haiti to strengthen its own institutions with a bit of push from us,” she explained. Page sees this new approach as a possible new peacekeeping model, commenting that with the aim of doing more with less, “one of the ways we can reach people is by being more flexible and being more mobile.” Turning to the situation on the ground, Page noted that while Haiti’s political system had been less than stable, “now, all of that is settled.”

BVI launches flood-resilient SMART communities project THREE flood-prone communities in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) will soon benefit from a project that will help them build resilience to that particular climate change impact. The Establishing Flood-Resilient SMART Communities through NonGovernmental Organizations (NGO) Partnerships project will target the communities of Sea Cow’s Bay and East End/Long Look on Tortola, and Great Harbour on the sister island of Jost Van Dyke. The project is being funded through the Community Disaster Risk Reduction Fund (CDRRF), which is managed by the Caribbean Development Bank. It is a collaborative effort among the Government of the British Virgin Islands through the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), and several non-profit organisations, including the Adventist Development Relief Agency, Rotary Family of BVI, BVI Red Cross and the Jost

Like other Caribbean islands, the BVI is highly susceptible to the devastating impact of natural disasters because of the proximity of communities to coastlines and changes to natural topography.

Van Dyke Preservation Society. CDRRF funded the project to the tune of US$649,500. “The devastation experienced in the Caribbean during the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season is a

reminder that tackling the impacts of climate change in one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions must be a matter of urgency,” said Claudia James, Project Manager, CDRRF, CDB.

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Move-a-thon invites residents to run, walk and cycle WORK off the food, drink and party excesses that are an inevitable part of the Christmas season by joining the Nutrition in Demand team for a vigorous stretch, walk and run event next

Saturday (January 13). The annual event is a 5km to 10km event hosted every year to get residents in the mood and motivated to really go after their New Year fitness goal.

Residents are encouraged to come out to the Kid’s Bight Park, Providenciales to participate in the event for nominal fees of only $20, $25, $35, $65 per person.

Registered dietitian Tamika Handfield founded Nutrition in Demand, a non-profit organisation, in late 2012 with the intention of raising awareness about the importance

of health and healthy eating. Some their programmes include nutrition education workshops, disease prevention workshops, nutrition education and culinary classes for children.

Its newest programme starting in 2018 will be KidFit which is an exercise programme just for children that engages them in physical activity through fun and interactive games. She then started hosting Move-a-thon TCI every second weekend in January to raise funds for the organisation’s many activities. Handfield said it is now Nutrition in Demand’s biggest event, with all the funds going towards running the various programmes in the community. “Many people make News Year resolutions and many of those resolutions are health related. “Therefore, one of the main aims of Move-a-thon was to encourage residents to kick start their New Year resolutions. This is why it is held so early in January.” She added: “We believe it’s the perfect time, especially since so many of us over indulge during the holidays, and over the years Move-athon TCI has grown to become one of TCI’s premier sporting events.” Handfield said that this year the team will be welcoming their first international runners who are coming to run in the territory’s first marathon. “This is exciting news and we are elated to be a part of it,” she said. For people who may not be as ambitious, there are many other distances they can walk, run or cycle. They can choose the 5km, 10km or half marathon - all of which start and finish at the Children’s Park in Lower Bight. Handfield said that her organising committee has prided itself on making Move-a-thon TCI a family friendly event. “Everyone from 0-100 is welcomed to either walk, run, cycle or be pushed in a wheelchair. “The aim is just to get moving! “We have had toddlers being pushed by their mothers, older children on tricycles and we’ve even had a few dogs in previous years. So, everyone is welcomed to join us on January 13, 2018.” Move-a-thon TCI is completely sponsored by private sector organisations and volunteers who give of their time and talent. If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer for the upcoming event, they can contact the committee on 442-3978 or send an email to nutritionindemand@yahoo. com. “We are encouraging families to come out with the children because this is how we, as parents, can teach healthy habits to our children while they are young,” Handfield encouraged.

January 6-12, 2018

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January 6-12, 2018

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January 6-12, 2018

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Regional CEO for Digicel, Sinead O Marcaigh and students share a light moment

Digicel spreads holiday cheer at SNAP Centre BY OLIVIA ROSE STUDENTS from the Special Needs Association of Providenciales (SNAP) Centre were treated to a day of goodies and toys as the Digicel team shifted their focus to spreading holiday cheer. All 16 students at the centre were given gifts from Digicel for Christmas, including remote control monster trucks, Moana and Dora dolls, fragrance giftsets and much more. Commenting on the outreach, regional CEO at Digicel Sinead O Marcaigh, said: “We all had a great time bringing the joy of Christmas to our little friends here. “At this special time of

year, it is even more important for us to let them know that we still care.” The initiative is very dear to Marcaigh who shared: “I’ve been working with children with special needs for over 30 years. “It was great to spend time with these children who are often forgotten. “Their smiles are genuine and they long to have a normal life like anyone else. So, I was more than glad to join the team and be part of making their Christmas a bit brighter.” She noted that teachers at the SNAP Centre received treats as a token of appreciation for their tireless work and dedication in ensuring that the students receive the best

possible education and early stimulation. In a hearty show of gratitude, the students treated the Digicel team to a few songs, showing off their musical prowess, and lots of hugs. The facility in Providenciales caters to children and young adults with a range of special needs including, but not limited to autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, developmental coordination disorder, speech/language disorder and learning disorders. The centre’s goal is selfdetermination for each child where possible allowing them to grow to their full potential.

January 6-12, 2018

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Brexit will give Corbyn same problems as Tories - Blair JEREMY Corbyn must change course on Brexit or he will find himself unable to deliver on his promises if he wins power, Tony Blair has warned. The ex PM said Mr Corbyn would find himself in “exactly the same position as the Tory government” - distracted by Brexit and short of money. Mr Blair told the BBC’s John Pienaar he was “committed” to seeing Labour back in power and Mr Corbyn as PM. Labour has backed Brexit and ruled out a second referendum if it wins power. One member of Labour’s shadow cabinet told the BBC Mr Blair’s intervention was “utterly unhelpful”. “Lots of Labour voters voted for Brexit and this to them sounds like the metropolitan elite ignoring them,” he said. “The whole Tony Blair project was about being on the right side of public opinion. And now look at this. Are you telling me the Tony Blair of 1994 would have said this?” Britain is due to leave the EU on 29 March 2019, but Mr Blair said it would be too late to change course by then. Shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer says Labour will push for a deal that would preserve as many of the benefits of the single market and customs union as possible, as well as protecting workers’ rights and the environment. But Mr Blair believes this is a “confusing” strategy and is not

Tony Blair said he was “committed” to seeing Labour back in power and Mr Corbyn as PM.

“credible”. “Far better to fight for the right for the country to re-think, demand that we know the full details of the new relationship before we quit the old one, go to the high ground on opposing Brexit and go after the Tories for their failures to tackle the country’s real challenges. “Make Brexit the Tory Brexit. Make them own it 100%. Show people why Brexit isn’t, and never was, the answer.” Mr Blair - a longstanding critic of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn - has ditched his business interests to take a more active role in British politics through his Institute for Global Change think tank. He has previously attacked

Mr Corbyn’s stance on Brexit prompting the Labour leader to say Mr Blair should respect the result of the 2016 EU referendum. Richard Tice, co-chairman of the pro-Brexit Leave Means Leave campaign, said Mr Blair “and his elite gang” were “still determined to stop Brexit” and will lead the UK “to the very bad deal which we had in the single market and the customs union”. Mr Blair said there were “elites on both sides” of the Brexit debate and it was not “undemocratic” to call for another vote because it was not clear what kind of relationship the UK would have with the EU when the 2016 referendum took place. “When we see what the actual alternative is, we are perfectly entitled to say, having looked at it, we do not believe it’s a better way forward for the country than what we have now,” he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. He said “democracy doesn’t just stop on one day” and “we are entitled to think again”. In Mr Blair’s latest article published on his institute’s website, he offered this advice to Jeremy Corbyn and his team: “At every PMQs nail each myth of the Brexit campaign, say why the Tory divisions are weakening our country, something only credible if we are opposed to Brexit, not advocating a different Brexit, and challenge the whole farce head on of a prime minister leading our nation in a direction which even today she can’t bring herself to say she would vote for.

Mr Trump responded by saying Mr Bannon had “lost his mind” after losing his White House position.

Trump-Bannon row: White House lawyers threaten former aide US President Donald Trump’s lawyers have written to his former strategist Steve Bannon, saying he has violated a non-disclosure agreement. The cease-and-desist notice accuses Mr Bannon of defaming the president in speaking to author Michael Wolff. Wolff’s forthcoming tell-all book describes the president as being unprepared for the job. Mr Trump responded by saying Mr Bannon had “lost his mind” after losing his White House position. His lawyers said Mr Bannon had broken his employment agreement by speaking to Wolff about Mr Trump and his family, “disclosing confidential information” and “making disparaging statements and in some cases outright defamatory

statements to Mr Wolff about Mr Trump, his family members, and the Company”. Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House makes many explosive claims, including that: Mr Bannon thought a meeting between Donald Trump Jr and a group of Russians was “treasonous” The Trump team was shocked and horrified by his election win His wife, Melania, was in tears on election night Mr Trump was angry that A-list stars had snubbed his inauguration The new president “found the White House to be vexing and even a little scary”. His daughter, Ivanka, had a plan with her husband, Jared Kushner, that she would be “the first woman president”

Jet Airways grounds pilots after ‘cockpit fight’ JET Airways has grounded two pilots following reports of a fight inside the cockpit of a flight from London to Mumbai. The Indian airline confirmed that a “misunderstanding” occurred between the cockpit crew on the New Year’s Day flight. It added that the crew involved had been taken off their flight duties, pending an investigation. The flight, which was carrying 324 passengers, landed safely in Mumbai. According to Indian media reports, quoting witnesses, the incident occurred after the male pilot allegedly slapped the female pilot. The woman left the cockpit in tears, but colleagues eventually persuaded her to go back, reports said. An official at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) told PTI news agency that the pilot had also left the cockpit unattended twice during the incident, breaking

Maria Batiz and her 8-month-old granddaughter, Amora Vidal, died in the fire on Thursday.

Toddler playing with stove accidentally started Bronx blaze that killed 12 people

According to media reports, the incident occurred after the male pilot allegedly slapped the female pilot.

safety regulations. A spokesperson for Jet Airways confirmed to the BBC that an incident had occurred, but did not detail the exact events that took place. The airline added that the incident has been reported to the DGCA,

saying that it had “zero tolerance for any action of its employees that compromises safety”. “At Jet Airways, safety of guests, crew and assets is of paramount importance,” said the spokesperson. (BBC)

IT wasn’t the first time the 3-year-old in the first floor apartment snuck off to play with gas stove jets — but for 12 of his Bronx neighbors, it was the last. The preschooler was blamed Friday for the raging blaze that killed a dozen residents of a five-story Belmont building, critically injured four others and left 22 families homeless. FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro described a five-alarm conflagration started by the child’s antics and fueled by a door left wide open as the boy and his family ran

for their lives. The nearby stairwell sent the fire and smoke spiraling quickly upstairs, cutting off the main escape route and trapping people inside the building’s 25 apartments. Although firefighters reached the scene in three minutes, they were already too late for the city’s deadliest blaze since the Happy Land arson fire killed 87 people in 1990. “The stairs acted like a chimney, and took the fire so quickly upstairs that people had very little time to react,” Nigro told a Friday news conference outside the evacuated building.

January 6-12, 2018

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U.S. blocks MoneyGram sale to China’s Ant Financial Large rallies in support of the leadership are now being held in cities around Iran.

Iran protests: US accused of ‘grotesque’ interference IRAN has accused the US of “grotesque” interference in its internal affairs in a letter to the UN. It said the US leadership, in “numerous absurd tweets, [had] incited Iranians to engage in disruptive acts” which violated international law. Twenty-one people died in six days of protests sparked by Iran’s economic problems, which spanned several cities. On Thursday state media focused on pro-government rallies after a second night without reports of major protests. The unrest was initially over price rises and corruption but the focus quickly turned to the remote elite and particularly Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, They are the largest protests

since the disputed 2009 presidential election. Since the protests broke out, US President Donald Trump has endorsed them, culminating on Wednesday with the suggestion that the US could offer “great support” to protesters. This chimes with the conservative Iranian narrative which blames the protests in part on foreign powers including Israel, Saudi Arabia and the US. In his letter, Iranian UN envoy Gholamali Khoshroo said the US had a track record of intervening in Iranian affairs. However, he added, the current administration had “crossed every limit in flouting rules and principles of international law governing the civilised conduct of international relations”.

Jacinto Suarez, 65, (r.) died Wednesday, Jan 3, 2018 after allegedly being sucker-punched onto the R-line subway tracks in Brooklyn by 18-year-old Edward Cordero (l.).

Man dies from fall onto Brooklyn subway tracks after suckerpunch from ranting teen A MENTALLY ill teen off his meds and ranting about God, the devil and the constant battle between good and evil sucker-punched an innocent straphanger Wednesday, sending the victim tumbling from a Brooklyn subway platform onto the tracks. Jacinto Suarez, 65, landed on the R-line tracks at the Jay St./Metro Tech station at 2:35 p.m.

Suarez wasn’t hit by a train. And it wasn’t clear whether he climbed back up on the platform or if onlookers helped him. But the grandfather’s initial story of survival took a tragic turn as medics treated him. He had a massive heart attack on the platform and died at Brooklyn Hospital.

A U.S. government panel rejected Ant Financial’s acquisition of MoneyGram International Inc over national security concerns, the companies said on Tuesday, the most high-profile Chinese deal to be torpedoed under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. The $1.2 billion deal’s collapse represents a blow for Jack Ma, the executive chairman of Chinese internet conglomerate Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, who owns Ant Financial together with Alibaba executives. He was looking to expand Ant Financial’s footprint amid fierce domestic competition from Chinese rival Tencent Holdings Ltd’s WeChat payment platform. Ma, a Chinese citizen who appears frequently with leaders from the highest echelons of the Communist Party, had promised Trump in a meeting a year ago that he would create 1 million U.S. jobs. MoneyGram shares were down 8.5 percent at $12.06 in after-market trading. The companies decided to terminate their deal after the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) rejected

Dallas-based MoneyGram has approximately 350,000 remittance locations in more than 200 countries.

their proposals to mitigate concerns over the safety of data that can be used to identify U.S. citizens, according to sources familiar with the confidential discussions. “Despite our best efforts to work cooperatively with the U.S. government, it has now become clear that CFIUS will not approve this merger,” MoneyGram Chief

Executive Alex Holmes said in a statement. A standard CFIUS review lasts up to 75 days, and the companies had gone through the process three times in order to address concerns. Additional security measures and protocols that the companies suggested failed to reassure CFIUS, the sources said.

Man who fatally stabbed wife in Queens told mom to ‘cremate me,’ then hanged himself SHORTLY before taking his own life, a Queens man who had stabbed his wife to death in the early hours of New Year’s Day had just one request — he wanted to be cremated, police sources said Tuesday. In a bizarre phone call to his mother, Vinny Loknath, 46, called his mother and asked her not to bury him, but to burn his body, which was found hanging from a tree in Forest Park at about 11 a.m. Monday, sources said. At the time, Loknath’s mother didn’t know that her son had just stabbed his wife, Stacy Singh, 26, after a New Year’s Eve filled with cocaine and hard partying, police said. The two Guyanese had a 5-yearold son and a 1-year-old daughter together. Singh was found stabbed repeatedly in the back and was left facedown in the couple’s Richmond Hill home on 103rd Ave. near 113th St., according to the sources. A knife was found near her abandoned corpse when police arrived around 2 p.m. Loknath — who was found swinging from a tree three hours earlier about 1 1/2 miles from the

Vinny Looknauth, who later committed suicide, reportedly stabbed his wife Stacy Singh in New York’s first homicide of 2018.

murder scene — was immediately linked to the killing. Singh is the city’s first murder victim of 2018, police said. Friends of the couple told police that Loknath and Singh were arguing with each other all night. The fighting was so loud at one point that the two were thrown out of the club where they were celebrating, family

members said. Cops arrested Loknath for attacking Singh last September and charged him with misdemeanor assault. A judge granted an order of protection barring Loknath from being near Singh until October 2019, but the couple apparently reconciled, police sources said.

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Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

FLOWER GIRL

WANTED URGENTLY

FLORAL DESIGNER

Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.

Call: 231-3788

SPACE AVAILABLE ON BUSY HIGHWAY FOR IMMEDIATE RENT. THIS SPACE IS NEWLY RENOVATED.

GOOD FOR LAW OFFIES, REAL ESTATE, SPA, BEAUTY SALON ETC...

CALL 649 231-3788

FOR SALE House in Richmond Hill residential area on a half acre land.

CONTACT: 231-3788

January 6-12, 2018

NEWS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FOR QUICK SALE ONE BRAND NEW WASHER CALL 231-3788

GET LEGAL HELP ON YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM CALL OR EMAIL US AT

duncansonlaw@gmail.com duncansonlaw.office@gmail.com 649-941-4444/ 649-245-1314/649-348-5744 DUNCANSON & CO BARRISTERS & ATTORNEYS 16121

NATIONAL COLONY REALTY LTD seeks to employ a

NOTICE The Flower Girl will be closed for 1 week to complete renovations We look forward in servicing you with the best prices on Island and the Freshest Floral Arrangements

MOMMY LORNA DAY CARE seeks to employ a

SPARK CAR RENTAL SOUTH DOCK ROAD IS SEEKIGN TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER BABY SITTER LABOURER

5 days a week at a salary of $300.00 per week please contact Theresa MENELY AT

in Grand Turk 5 days per week at a salary of $200.00 per month please

TELEPHONE NO. 946-5945

CONTACT TEL NO. 244-7818

16914

16915

SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 345-3825

16918

NEEDED URGENTLY Senior Reporter Reporter/Sub-Editor

We are looking for an experienced all-round reporter to join our small team. The successful applicant would have run the gamut of covering community events to court and parliamentary reporting. The ideal candidate should be able to copy edit and be able to write eye-catching headlines, as well as proofread. He or she will be responsible for ensuring that copy is accurate; has correct grammar and follows house style. Applicant should be computer-literate and should know how to use a camera. Please send application to the publisher at Turks & Caicos News Ltd. (The Weekly News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com, or P.O.Box 52, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands.

We are looking for a qualified reporter who has strong news gathering and writing skills, as well as the ability and enthusiasm to help keep the countryâ€™s leading newspaper ahead of the pack. The position is available for immediate start and the successful candidate will be joining a small, dedicated team covering a wide range of news and features across the islands of the Turks & Caicos. Local knowledge is preferred but not essential, but the successful applicant would have had wide experience in community, court and parliamentary reporting. A working knowledge of computer and photography is essential. The salary for this position will be dependent on experience. Write or email the publisher at tcweeklynews@gmail.com No phone calls please.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

36 CLASSIFIEDS A&G VARIETY STORE FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

ANGELA WILLIAMS DOWNTOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER

LABOURER Salary: $150 per week Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 241-6565 Position is held by a work permit holder

16808

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MUST HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF VEGETATION. 4 WEEKS PAID VACATION LEAVE ACCOMODATION PROVIDED SALARY: $6.50 PER HOUR MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 232-1473 POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16811

ANTHONY GRANT GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 5 days per week

CONTACT: 241-1652

16846

APEX INNOVATIVE BUILDERS LEEWARD HIGHWAY Is looking for a

APEX ROOFING COMPANY PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

PAINTER MASON

to work 5 days per week salary $8.00 per hour this position is for work permit renewal

Salary: $10.00 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 332-5020

CONTACT: 331-7663

16851

16824

BAREFOOT CAFÉ PORTS OF CALL Is seeking to employ a

KITCHEN HELPER Salary: $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 441-1686

Position is held by a work permit holder 16821

BENJAMIN BRUCE WALKING BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

Unit G203, 2ND Floor , Regent Village West, Grace Bay, P.O Box 641, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Cell: 649 331-3890 Tel: 649 946-8504 Fax: 649 946 8506 Email: bsd@tciway.tc

Building Services Design Ltd. is currently seeking suitably qualified individuals to fill the following positions.

KITCHEN HELPER SALARY: $7.00 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

SENIOR MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER / MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER The successful applicant must be a member of American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and competent in the design of HVAC systems: Duties shall include preparation of standard detail drawings including sections and isometrics of various mechanical services such as HVAC, plumbing, sanitary, sprinkler systems, swimming pools etc. using Auto CAD software and Carrier E20 software

CONTACT: 346-7857

16751

DJ’S BAKERY GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

ELECTRICAL DESIGN ENGINEER The successful applicant must be competent in the design of electrical systems: Power generation and distribution of power supply, performing electrical calculations, sizing equipment and performing computer analysis of alternate systems; must also be competent in the design of fire alarm systems and communication systems using the latest Auto CAD software. All applicants must be familiar with USA Codes and Regulations and should be a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) All applicants must have extensive experience in the installation of, including testing and commissioning of the electrical and mechanical services. Applicants should have a minimum of 5 (five) years experience and a proven design track record on projects for condominium complexes, hotels, commercial and industrial facilities and residential dwellings. It is essential that all applicants must have a degree in his/her field obtained from a recognized University and registered with his/her respective Engineering Council/ Commission. The successful applicants must have the technical experience for solving design solutions and can work unsupervised in the preparation and issuing of mechanical and electrical design drawings. All applications will be considered from suitably qualified candidates who should forward a copy of their resume including relevant experience to the email/fax address below.

MALE ASSISTANT BAKER Salary: $6.50 per hour

CONTACT 242-0718

16824

E.L CONSTRUCTION KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

CARETAKER/ PERSONAL ASSISTANT TO CARE FOR A PROFESSIONAL MAN’S INFANT CHILD AND TO BE A GENERAL PERSONAL ASSISTANT

CONTACT 941-4444 DOSSOU CONSTRUCTION

DOWNTOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER Salary: $7.00 per hour

CONTACT: 231-0770

Position is held by a work permit holder 16803

DREADZ

LEEWARD HIGHWAY IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER

COSMETOLOGIST

CONTACT: 346-7379

CONTACT: 342-2182

SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

THIS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

ELIE’S LANDSCAPING CLEANING SERVICES

EMMANUEL BELIZAIRE

16849

DOWNTOWN Is seeking to employ a

16796

FIVE CAYS Is looking for a

Deadline for Application is January 19th, 2018 Please fax your application to: - 649-946-8506 – Building Services Design Ltd. Email: accounts@bsd.tc

LABOURER

Or mail to: P.O Box 641 Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

Must be willing to work 5 days per week Salary $200 per week

Please copy application to: - Labour Commissioner Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands 16825

CONTACT 231-6153

16848

LABOURER CARETAKER Salary: $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 343-1963

Position is held by a work permit holder 16822

to work 5 days per week salary $200 per week

CONTACT: 649-347-0913

This position is for work permit renewal 16853

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

A&B RETAIL SHOP BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 342-8856

16880

AGNES JESTINA SWANN NORTH CAICOS Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

AGNES SWANN NORTH CAICOS Is seeking to employ a

2 LABOURERS

Salary: $6.50 per hour

Salary: $6.50 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 246-7382

16893

16896

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

NATURES VISIONS LTD

These position are currently held by work permit holders

Seeking an

ENVIRONMENTAL URBAN DESIGNER

GENERAL DUTIES: • Landscape design and implementation • Manual labour and supervision of crews • Irrigation design and installation • Hardscape design and implementation • Dealing with clients and subcontractors • Budgets and work schedules quotes • Use heavy equipment and jack hammers

• 5+ years’ experience • Able to read and follow architectural designs • Knowledge of quoting jobs /scheduling and budgets • Must have own transportation, driving license and phone • Self-starter and self-motivated and willing to work holidays and 6 days a week

REQUIREMENTS: • Supervisory skills and willing to do manual work • Degree in Environmental Urban Design

Position open to all qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders. Basic wage $3,000.00/ month plus commission on certain projects.

Send resume to bunderwood@tciway.tc or call Barbara Underwood 232 2272 Turks and Caicos Islanders also invited to send resume to the Immigration Board.

ANDREW HIGGS Bottle Creek, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a

ARNOLD GARDINER NORTH CAICOS Is seeking to employ a

CLASSIFIEDS 37

16886

BAY BISTRO GRACE BAY Is seeking to employ a

PUBLIC NOTICE All water bills are now available. If you have not received your bill, please contact Provo Water Company immediately on (649) 3399282 or email Billing@provowater.tc to request your bill. Any balance not paid in full by the due date of Friday 22 December 2017 is considered past due (delinquent) and the account is subject to immediate disconnection of service. The amount due plus a reconnection fee must be paid in full to restore a disconnected service. Late fees are also applicable. A delinquent disconnection can take up to 24 hours to be restored. Please allow three (3) business days to process payments not made directly at Provo Water Company offices. Please ensure that faucets are turned off before service is reconnected to prevent accidental flooding. 16781

GET LEGAL HELP ON YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM CALL OR EMAIL US AT

duncansonlaw@gmail.com duncansonlaw.office@gmail.com 649-941-4444/ 649-245-1314/649-348-5744 DUNCANSON & CO BARRISTERS & ATTORNEYS 16121

BABYSITTER Salary: $200 per week Must be willing to work 6 days per week

LABOURER

WAITRESS

CONTACT: 246-7382

CONTACT: 343-4959

Salary: $200 per week

CONTACT: 347-4157

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

BENJAMIN BRUCE WALKIN

C&S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

16875

BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

Acting on behalf of our client Jason Missick Who is seeking to employ a

Salary: $6.25 per hour

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16877

CARIBBEAN BAR & RESTAURANT PROVIDENCIALES IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER

DOMESTIC KITCHEN WORKER HELPER

CONTACT: 231-0770

CONTACT: 241-5922

Salary: $7.00 per hour

Position is held by a work permit holder

16803

Salary $6.50 per hour

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16900

SALARY: $7.00 PER HOUR MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 346-7857

16751

TECHNICIAN NEEDED FOR A PRIVATE PROPERTY IN PROVIDENCIALES OPERATED BY SARAWACK LTD.

Certified technician with minimum seven year’s professional experience. Must possess at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. Must be fluent in English and Spanish and have a working knowledge of Italian. Must be fit and able. Required to work five days a week. Salary is $2,500.00 a month. Required to live on property. Applicant must be able to do the following: • Provide technical maintenance and repair services to property • Assist with general maintenance of the property as needed • Ability to use and safely operate maintenance tools and equipment • Must be computer literate and have excellent written and oral communication skills • Possess valid driver’s license with clean record This advertisement is required for a work permit renewal application for this position.

All suitably qualified TC Islanders are requested to submit resumes/ portfolios to PO Box 560, Regent House West, Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, TCI or send by fax to 946 4663. Prospective TC Islander applicants are also free to lodge a copy of their applications with the Labour Board.

16779

38 CLASSIFIEDS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PROPERTY MANAGER Key Responsibilities: • Managing both short and long-term property rentals • Marketing & price setting to optimize revenue and occupancy • Negotiating and enforcing leases • Maintaining and securing premises • Managing the TKCA team, plan and budget • Coordinating with (multiple) homeowners and TKCA director Deadline January 5tth 2018 Position for Belongers only Applications should be sent to info@tkcavacationrentals.com or P.O. Box 608, Providenciales Contact: 649-941-3445

This is a tourism related job and will

RICHMOND HILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL Is looking for a trained

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

With a minimum of ten years’ teaching experience and a teachers’ certificate from an accredited institution. Teachers should be able to teach all subjects to any grade level, complete unit and lesson plans, serve on various committees and complete annual reports. Salary is $2200 per month PLEASE APPLY IN WRITING TO RICHMONDHILLPREP@YAHOO.COM

Qualified PADI/NAUI SCUBA Instructors Needed

Successful candidate will be a PADI MSDT with current membership and insurance, resort operations experience including advanced level instruction, dive accident management, compressor maintenance, equipment and engine maintenance and repair. Captain’s license and STCW95 qualification preferred, or applicant must be willing to train.

16841

16840

ROSE KELLY

PROVO TURTLE DIVERS

include all aspects of the company’s daily routine including but not limited to, teaching all levels of instruction, guiding dives, boat and vehicle operations and working the front office. The work schedule will include weekends, public holidays and occasional night dives.

DOMESTIC WORKER SALARY: $6.75 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

Starting Salary $390 - $510 per week based on experience and qualifications.

Contact David Volkert at 946-4232 or info@provoturtledivers. com Positions available starting Feb 10, 2018. Please submit applications before January 5, 2018 16799

SAINTALESTE OLIBRICE FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work Monday- Friday

CONTACT: 342-2553 Preference for Belongers

16835

Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty Seeking Real

SAINTILIA 0. PARKER PROVIDENCIALES Is looking for a

DOMESTIC WORKER to work 5 days per week salary $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 649-341-1400

Estate Sales Executive RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE • Assist clients in the sale, purchase, letting or leasing of real estate • Introducing new clients and promoting real estate sales and new listings • Promptly notifying the Employer of the particulars of any new listing secured by the Employee, and of any potential listing or potential buyer coming to his/her attention • Performing such administrative functions as the Manager or acting Manager for the time being of the Employer (“the Manager”) may from time to time assign to the Employee • Participating in such meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, events and functions connected with real estate • Assisting in the preparation and publication or promotional material and media • Fostering good relations with companies in the real estate business and their employees and agents • Participate as a practicing member of the Turks & Caicos Real Estate Association (TCREA) • Keeping proper and organized records of activities and of the properties with which you are associated with • Sales and listing reports Required to work after hours and weekends as necessary • A minimum of 12 years in Real Estate Sales • Business Courses from a recognized University • Sales Training Courses • Multi Language Skills an asset • Microsoft Computer application knowledge APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS Commission Based Remuneration – Application Closing Date – March 1st, 2017. Please submit CV to: Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, P.O. BOX 279, Venture House, Providenciales, Telephone: 649-9464474 or Fax: 649-946-4433 16805

DOMESTIC WORKER

POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16819

FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

Salary $6.25 per hour Must be working MondayFriday

CONTACT: 231-6432

CONTACT: 344-8432

STANLEY WILLIAMS

CONTACT: 347-9222

16800

DOMESTIC WORKER

SUMA KENDALL INGHAM

SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

SHERRIE FORBES

Grand Turk is seeking to employ a

This position is held by a work permit holder 16815

LABOURER

CONTACT: 946-4360

SALOMON ALTIDOR

This position is for work permit renewal 16854

PROVIDENCIALES IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LEEWARD IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 946-1689

16833

Reference for Belongers

16837

SNR STUDIO BEAUTY AND BARBER VARIETY FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

HAIRSTYLIST Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work Monday – Friday

CONTACT: 346-4624 Belongers preferred

16836

SERVICES BY EA Is seeking to employ a

NURSERY MANAGER Applicants must have knowledge of finance, accounting, cash flow projection and proficient in using POS Systems for landscape, chemical and fertilization inventory. Ability to analyze financial data and prepare automated financial reports. Statements and reports, statements and projection. Work requires professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills to deal with customers and suppliers. Salary is $600 per week and willing to work long hours, weekends and holidays if needed. Reference will be given to applicants who completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy, Finance or Business Administration. Excellent reference from previous employers a must.

Interested applicants including Islanders/Belongers can bring all applications to EA Services Ltd. located at #65 Beechwood Road, Grace Bay, Providenciales or e-mail to mary@environmentalarts.tc successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview. This position is currently held by work permit holders. 16771

January 6-12, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS 39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SWEET T’S RESTAURANT DOWNTOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

SYDENY M. DEAN FIVE CAYS IS LOOKING FOR A

TCI PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS SERVICES

Acting on behalf of our clients

BELONY ANTOINE BIEN-AIME

THE WENERIS JEWERLY REPAIR

TRAVELLING GOURMET

JEWELRY REPAIRER

CHEF

KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

WOUDELINE DESIGN TAILOR SHOP

FIVE CAYS IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

DOMESTIC WORKER $6.25 per hour

SERVER CARETAKER SALARY: $250 PER WEEK

CONTACT: 343-3655 POSITION IS GHELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

6812

TO WORK 5 DAYS PER WEEK SALARY $250 PER WEEK THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENWAL

CONTACT: 649-332-5020

16852

VILLA HOST A Hardworking, trustworthy and service oriented individual with excellent communications skills

AUTO MECHANIC $10 per hour

SALARY: $6.50 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 241-7878

CONTACT: 345-0557

CONTACT: 243-3036

CONTACT: 442-1349

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

WILMAN CONSULTANCY

WINSTON GARDINER

DOSSOU CONSTRUCTION

LABOURER $6.50 per hour 16847

Acting on behalf of our clients

AFTER 5 CATERING SERVICE

CATERING SUPERVISOR $20 per hour

WAITER

EY CONTRACTAL

UPHOLSTERER $ 7.00 per hour YOSHI SUSHI BAR

COOK

$8.00 per hour WOODS CONTRACTAL

LABOURER

$14.60 per hour CONTACT: 345-7212

Positions are held by work permit holders 16831

L&M CRAFT MARKET L & G VARIETY STORE Seeking employment for the following:

1) DOMESTIC WORKER Interested candidate may contact the employer at 345-3454 regarding employment

GRACE BAY IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

ARTIST

SALARY: $8.00 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 4 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 347-0198

16857

16863

CASABLANCA CASINO

is looking for a candidate in the following FULL –TIME position.

DICE DEALER $12/ HOUR WAITRESS $12/ HOUR CANDIDATES MUST HAVE AT LEAST 3-5 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN THE CASINO INDUSTRY. FULL KNOWLEDGE OF ALL CASINO TABLE GAMES. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK NIGHT SHIFT, WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS.

Please drop CV’s at Casablanca Casino Position is held by a work permit holder16898

16829

GRAND TURK Is acting on behalf of our clients who are seeking the following

16810

BOTTLE CREEK, NORTH CAICOS IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY AN

SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR

16810

DOWNTOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

ELVA WILLIAMS

LABOURER

$6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 5 days per week Contact: 231-4657

$7.00 per hour

16842

SEAMSTRESS

Salary: $275 per week Must be willing to work Monday- Friday

NORTHSIDE CITY MARKET

COYABA RESTAURANT

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Care for guest and create a warm and welcoming environment; Assist departments as instructed by supervisor; work flexible and long hours, including, evenings, week-ends and public holidays • Remuneration $10/ Hour

Deadline January 5tth 2018 Position for Belongers only Applications should be sent to info@ tkcavacationrentals.com or P.O. Box 608, Providenciales Contact: 649-941-3445

QUALITY CAR RENTAL LTD.

LABOURER

WARREN WILLIAMS

2 LABOURERS

$ 6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 5 days per week JEAN EDDY JEROME

1 LABOURER 1 DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.25 per hour Contact: 242-1358

16754

CARLA PROSPERE LONG BAY Is seeking to employ a

ORGANIST

SALARY: 320 PER WEEK

CONTACT: 2473538 OR 244-9643

16799

AFFINITY MANAGEMENT LTD LEEWARD Is seeking to employ a

SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 346-7379 POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16859

DOSSOU CONSTRUCTION DOWNTOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER LABOURER

CONTACT: 346-5604

CONTACT: 332-5020

Salary: $6.50 per hour

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

Salary: $6.25 per hour

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16816

SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 346-7379 POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16859

6882

CLOVERLEAF AGENCY NORTH CAICOS

Acting on behalf of our client Kim Douglas Taylor Who is seeking to employ Is seeking to employ a

CARETAKER Salary: $6.50 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 246-7382 This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16870

D&B AUTO RENTAL

CLOVERLEAF AGENCY

AUTO RENTAL AGENT 1. Prepare rental and return documents accurately and completely 2. Qualify each customer using our company rental requirement guidelines 3. Review rental parameters with all customers to ensure a complete understanding of our rates and service charges. 4. Minimum two year experience 5. Must have good marketing skills and willing to work on weekends and holidays 6. Salary based on commission.

Interested persons must forward resumes and qualification to robert@dnbautoparts.com or dnbautoparts@tciway.tc 16427

NORTH CAICOS Darlington Higgs Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER Salary: $6.50 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 246-7382

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16868

40 CLASSIFIEDS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GET LEGAL HELP ON YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM

DEIDRE FORBES FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

CALL OR EMAIL US AT

duncansonlaw@gmail.com duncansonlaw.office@gmail.com 649-941-4444/ 649-245-1314/649-348-5744

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.25 per hour

DUNCANSON & CO BARRISTERS & ATTORNEYS 16121

CONTACT: 343-7077

16865

DIVINE ROOTS is seeking a

D&B TILE

Long Bay, Providenciales

HAIRDRESSER To work 6 days a week. Salary $6.50 per hour

PLEASE CALL 241-4248

This Ad is for work permit renewal. However, this position is open to all qualified Turks & Caicos Islanders. 16897

TILEMAN Salary: $ 6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 241-7845

DUFRY GRAND TURK LTD

16887

is seeking

SUPERVISOR

APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS INCLUDES: • 5 years of retail experience with at least 2 year in a supervisory role • Experience in logistics procedures. Transport & warehousing background, knowledge of current custom legislation • Strong leadership skills • Demonstrated ability to build effective teams and motivate employees • Understanding of basic retail concepts • Good problem solving skills • Available to work store schedule

SUPREME COURT TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

NOTICE CEREMONIAL OPENING 2018 LAW YEAR The ceremonial opening of the 2018 Law Year of the Supreme Court of the Turks & Caicos Islands will take place on Wednesday 10th January, 2018 in GRAND TURK. The ceremony will commence with a Church service at the St. Mary’s Pro Cathedral Church at 10:00am. Following the service the Honourable Chief Justice will lead a procession along Pond Street to the Court House, where Her Ladyship will inspect the Guard of Honour drawn from the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force. A sitting of the Court at which the Chief Justice will deliver the feature address immediately follows the inspection of the Guard of Honour. Registrar Supreme Court 21st December, 2017

Resumes should be delivered directly to the store

16883

BCS-CS/GRACEBAY CAR RENTALS Is seeking to employ a

NIGHT AUDITOR

The Night Auditor is a key member of the Car Rental team, responsible for the over-night operations, verifying the accuracy of clients’ accounts balancing charges and revenues, as well as assisting with all aspects of Customer Services. The night Auditor must have a Positive and professional up personality with a desire to deliver outstanding customers service to our clients.

REQUIREMENTS

• • • • •

Exceptional interpersonal skills to enhance the service standards throughout the operation. Excellent communication and time management skills. A team player and a self-starter Ability to work effectively in an innovative, fast paced and multi-tasked environment Excellent computer skills, specifically Microsoft Office and use of the internet, Rent Centric, Excel, All Windows, Europcar Systems. • College or University degree preferred in Accounts or a minimum of 3 years’ experience in guest services role. • Must have the ability to wow the customer. Duties and Responsibilities • Perform accurate check-ins and return car rentals • Answer the telephone in a timely and professional manner. • Make reservations over the phone and in person and ensure all aspects of the vehicle reservation procedures are followed, including bookings, confirmation and cancellations policies • Responsible for a cash float throughout your shift and ensuring all floats balance correctly at the end of the shift. • Listening to clients’ complaints or concerns and resolving their issues in a timely manner. • Produce daily reports for departments and department heads • Compile and run statistical reports for all departments and transfer information to our Accounting department. Languages • Written, spoken and reading proficiency in the English Language Salary • $2775 per month. Held by a work permit holder

This position is currently held by a work permit holder Email: frantz@gracebaycarrentals.com

16864

January 6-12, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS 41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GUSTAVUS FRANCIS BLUE MOUNTAIN Is seeking to employ a

IMPERIAL SECURITY SERVICES GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

EMPLOYERS ARE SEEKING THE FOLLOWING POSITION:

JAMES FULFORD OF GRAND TURK

LEGISTER W. MISSICK

is seeking to employ a

GLASS SHACK Is seeking to employ a

EXOTIC HAIR & NAIL CREATION 342-2222

DOMESTIC WORKER

CLEANER

CONTACT: 649-332-5020

CONTACT 2412560

CONTACT: 345-2426

TCI WASTE DISPOSAL 332-5032

LABORER $6.25 PER HOUR QUALITY WILBERT CONSTRUCTION 347-2608

DOMESTIC WORKER $6.25 PER HOUR

LABOURER Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 241-6040

Position is held by a work permit holder 16826

LEGRAND ROSELINE BEAUTY SALON

DOWNTOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

HAIRSTYLIST

LINA CHARITE TIMA 347-5313

CARETAKER $6.25 PER HOUR

SECURITY OFFICER Salary: $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 946-2475

Position is held by a work permit holder 16829

CARIDAD GARCIA DE POZO 331-8583

LABOURER $6.25 PER HOUR

Interested person may

LABORER $6.25 PER HOUR BARBER $8.00 PER HOUR These positions are for renewal purpose

LOUISENA GUSTAVE

16855

LYNEAL GIBSON Is seeking to employ a

FIVE CAYS IS SEEKIGN TO EMPLOY A

DOMESTIC WORKER

CARETAKER HANDYMAN

Applicant must be Honest, Reliable and Hardworking Salary: $6.50 per hour

POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

CONTACT: 344-7847

CONTACT: 649-232-6835

CONTACT: 343-3398

NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH OF GOD

NORIS BAR AND RESTAURANT

P&D CONSULTANCY

SALARY: $1000 PER MONTH

CONTACT: 332-5032 16818

SOUTH CAICOS IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 341-4730

THIS POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16806

PORT ATLANTIC CONSTRUCTION

IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

CARPENTER HELPER SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK MONDAY-FRIDAY

CONTACT: 346-6622

BELONGERS PREFERRED POSITION IS HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16803

SALARY: $250 PER WEEK

16817

DOWN TOWN Is seeking to employ a

Salary $6.25 per hour

16838

Is seeking to employ

2 DOMESTIC WORKERS

BARTENDER $200 per week

2 LABOURERS $6.25 per hour

2 MASONS

CONTACT: 232-4905

CONTACT: 232-2001

16830

PROMISE

Grand Turk is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 247-6615

This position is held by a work permit holder 16814

16802

Position is held by a work permit holder 16820

MOMMY LORNA DAY CARE

NATIONAL COLONY REALTY LTD

BABYSITTER

LABOURER

seeks to employ a

in Grand Turk 5 days per week at a salary of $200.00 per month please

CONTACT TEL NO. 244-7818

16798

seeks to employ a

5 days a week at a salary of $300.00 per week

PLEASE CONTACT THERESA MENELY AT TELEPHONE NO. 946-5945

16797

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

$6.25 per hour

KITCHEN HELPER $250 per week

16834

Salary is $6.25 per hour

Salary: $6.25 per hour

$7.00 per hour

16828

ROBERTS AGENCY

Who is seeking and acting on behalf of our client is looking for

PAINTER TILE LAYER

Salary: 6.25 per hour D&U LANDSCAPING

GARDENER

Salary: $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 241-2043

Positions are held by work permit holders 16827

MOMENTOUS LTD. Momentous Ltd. is seeking qualified individuals. Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including weekends and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers. Applicants will be required to pass a written skills test. These positions are currently occupied by Work Permit holders. Qualified Turks Islander applicants are invited to forward resumes to the Labour Board.

ASSISTANT MANAGER – COMMUNICATIONS & SALES EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to communicate, liaise, and negotiate internally and externally using appropriate methods to facilitate the development of profitable business and sustainable relationships • Strong understanding of Microsoft Office applications and ability to troubleshoot/diagnose computer and network issues • Manage and maintain effectiveness of IT • 5+ years project management experience • 5+ years managing and executing marketing plans • 5+ years computer network experience • 5+ years experience in legal contract drafting and negotiation • 5+ years experience in troubleshooting computer hardware/software issues • 10+ years sales experience • 10+ years experience management, training, and recruiting staff according to company policies and employment laws, ensuring relevant HR procedures are followed

Applications can be submitted directly to careers@momentous.com 16850

42 CLASSIFIEDS DALVEM LTD.

Venetian Road, Providenciales.

MICHELE'S CONSTRUCTION Five Cays, Providenciales

GLADYS LOUIS JEAN HIGGS Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

CONTACT 231-2010

CONTACT: 346-5872

Salary: $6.25 per hour

For First Time Work Permit Application 16890

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Salary $6.25 per hour

For First Time Work Permit Application

16889

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 345-9238

16862

MILLS INSTITUTE

NAYDEAN FAIRLENE JOHNSON

MILLENNIUM HEIGHTS Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER Salary: $300 per week

CONTACT: 243-4580

16872

PHILADELPHY BAPTIST CHURCH OF SAINTS FIVE CAYS Bishop Doctor Emmanuel Innocent General Overseer and Senior Pastor Is seeking to employ a

Juba Sound - Is seeking to employ

FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

JAVIER R. CASTILLO

TEACHER

KETTLIE ROCK GRAND TURK IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

CONTACT: 245-9594

HANDY MAN $6.25 per hour

DOMESTIC WORKER $6.25 per hour

Contact: millsinstitute@gmail.com

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16892

16860

MUSICIAN Salary: $6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 241-1735

16871

BCS-CS/GRACEBAY CAR RENTAL

HELPER SALARY: $343-5005

JOBS SUMMARY The Supervisor/ Rental Sales Agent complete all of the duties of a Rental Sales Agent and as such will complete rental and return transactions. Integral to this role is the sale programs and services to customers and prospective customers at the counter, following established procedures and sales techniques. In addition, the Supervisor/ Rental Sales Agent is expected to • Direct the daily activities of the work group • Assist the Manager in preparing shift schedule and reports • Train, coach, and direct their work group in the performance of job duties • Report to management noncompliance with established policies and procedures. The Supervisor/ Rental sales Agent perform and provides services which reflect the company’s values. Essential duties and responsibilities shown below will vary accordingly based on the location, team size, brand and any specialized or specific requirements. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Complete qualifications procedures prior to renting vehicles • Maximizes up-sells and walk-up sales based on vehicle availability, utilizing established sales techniques and dialogues. Programs and services include protection options, refueling program, special promotions, future reservations, upgrades, etc. • Reviews completed contracts with customers to verify accuracy of information and explains rates and charges • Adhere to Company Quality Assurance and Uniform Guidelines • Solves problems raised by customers using sound judgment within applied empo9werment guidelines and company policy. REQUIRED EXPERIENCES • Level 3 NCEA or higher • Previous Customer Service and Sales experience REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES • Strong professional demeanor, interpersonal skills • Excellent English written and oral communications skills • Judgment/problem solving • Persuasiveness/Sales ability • Planning and organizing • Conflict resolution and negotiation • Knowledge in computer systems Excel, Rent Centric, Europcar, All Windows Salary: $2955 per month This Position is currently held by a work permit holder

Email: frantz@gracebaycarrentals.com

CONTACT: 246-7382

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

MARTHA CLARE

MARIE MICHELE JOSEPH

16863

BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER With at least 5 years’ experience In the field Salary: $10.00 per hour

CONTACT: 345-5556

16873

16867

FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ

DOMESTIC WORKERS Salary: $6.25 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 346-5872

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

NOTICE OPENING 2018 LAW YEAR

The opening of the 2018 Law Year of the Supreme Court of the Turks & Caicos Islands will take place on Wednesday 10th January, 2018 in GRAND TURK. Church service at the St. Mary’s Pro Cathedral Church at 10:00am. Inspection of the Guard of Honour at 11:00am Following inspection, address in Court Registrar Supreme Court 21st December, 2017

16865

Salary: $6.50 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

SUPREME COURT TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

Is seeking to employ a

OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR

NORTH CAICOS Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

$1800 per month/Teacher’s Aide $1000 per month

SALES PERSON Salary: $6.50 per hour

KEVIN SWANN

16861

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLUB MED TURKOISE

QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays Is now interviewing for the following position:

BUTCHER

JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Must be trained in the profession of butcher. • Must have at least 5 years experience of on the job experience cutting for both retail and food service. • Must be familiar with vendors and ordering as well as taking inventory, including inventory in a FREEZER. • Must be familiar with cutting styles particular to store demographics. • Must be familiar with the operation and maintenance of a BIRO 3334, Hill Phoenix Freezer and other required operating equipment. • Must be willing and able to work extended periods of time, in extreme temperatures, including FREEZER (-10 Fahrenheit or -23 Celsius). • Must be willing to work a 6 day work week, including Holidays and nights and weekends, including Sundays. • Working hours will mostly be during the afternoon to late evening hours including both weekend days with a scheduled day off during the week. • Must physically be able to lift cases in excess of 65 pounds. • Must be able to read and write English proficiently.

PLEASE APPLY WITHIN AT ABOVE ADDRESS OR CONTACT 941-7939. ONLY BELONGERS NEED APPLY.

16878

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays Is now interviewing for the following position:

PURCHASER

JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Must have minimum of 5 years international purchasing experience of supermarket and food service products; both perishable and non-perishable. • Also MUST have experiencing purchasing Filipino Products. • Must be willing and able to work extended periods of time, in extreme temperatures, including FREEZER (-10 Fahrenheit or -23 Celsius). • Must be willing to work a 6 day work week, including Holidays and nights. • Working hours will mostly be during the afternoon to late evening hours including both weekend days with a scheduled day off during the week. • Must have extensive computer purchasing experience as well as excellent proficiency with Quick Books Purchasing System, Word and Excel. • Must physically be able to lift cases in excess of 65 pounds. • Must have at least 5 years experience in grocery merchandising. • Must be able to read and write English proficiently.

PLEASE APPLY WITHIN AT ABOVE ADDRESS OR CONTACT 941-7939. ONLY BELONGERS NEED APPLY.

CLASSIFIEDS 43

16879

JOB ADVERTISEMENT RESTAURANT MANAGER

• Achieves restaurant operational objectives by contributing information and recommendations to strategic plans and reviews, preparing and completing action plans, implementing production, productivity, quality, and customer-service standards, resolving problems, completing food and safety audits, identifying trends, determining improvements and implementing change. • Accomplish restaurant human resource objectives by recruiting, selecting, training, orienting, assigning, scheduling, coaching, counseling, and disciplining employees, communicating job expectations, planning, monitoring, appraising, and reviewing job contributions, planning and reviewing compensation actions, enforcing policies and procedures. • Meet restaurant financial objectives by forecasting requirements, preparing an annual budget, scheduling expenditures, analyzing variances and initiating corrective actions. • Control costs by reviewing quantities of preparation, minimizing waste and ensuring high quality of preparation. • Maintain safe, secure, and healthy environment by establishing, following, and enforcing sanitation standards and procedures. • Maintain ambiance by controlling lighting, background music, linen service, glassware, dinnerware, and utensil quality and placement. • Enhance department, organization reputation by exploring new opportunities to add value to job accomplishments. RESTAURANT MANAGER SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: • People management, planning, foster teamwork, giving feedback, customer service, developing budgets, self-motivated, energy level, multi-tasking, Resolving conflict, verbal communication. • Bachelor degree in hospitality management 3-4 years in the specify field. Salary will be based on qualifications, experiences and negotiable.

RESTAURANT SUPERVISORS

• Provide hotel guests with a first and last impression as a greeter at the Grace Bay restaurant. Delegate various tasks to employees that are essential to daily operations. • Supervise all dining rooms and terrace activities to ensure optimal quality of the restaurant. • Oversee all sections of the restaurant clean restock all supplies before the end of employees shifts and perform regular inspections on all equipment’s and recommend require repairs. • People management, teamwork, giving feedback, customer service, selfmotivated, energetic, multi-tasking, resolving conflict, verbal communicator. Minimum of 2-3 years in the specialized field. Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $8.80 per hour.

• • • •

WAITERS

Provide the perfect service experience for every Guests. Ability to comprehend and communicate in fluent English. Pre-set tables with tableware; maintain table cleanliness and re-set tables. Personal traits customer Service, teamwork, persistence, high energy, thoroughness, professionalism, stamina and physical strength. Minimum of 1-2 years in the specialized field. Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $6.25per hour.

BELLMAN

• Transport guest’s luggage to rooms. • Ensured timely execution of all guest’s luggage at arrivals and departures. • Follow work schedules and kept time records, time-management and organizational skills due to high-volume of business. • Ability to walk up and down stairs, bent, physical strength, stamina and lift 50lbs. • Ability to comprehend and communicate in fluent English. • Excellent communication skills through effectively communicating with guests and management. Minimum of 1-2 years in the specialized field. Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $7.25per hour.

Ability to be on time and present for all scheduled shifts including weekends and Holidays. Qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders should email their CV to turcrehu02@ClubMed.com along with supportive qualifications, references and police record.

44 CLASSIFIEDS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons for the following full-time lecturing positions at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College for the semester commencing February 12, 2018.

Faculty of Computer Engineering and Mathematics (CEM):

Director

(CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER) Reporting: Directly to the Board of Directors and, as required, to the responsible Minister Reporting: Deputy Director Corporate Services, Financial Controller, Investment Manager,

Corporate Secretarial Assistant

Indirect Branch Managers

MATHEMATICS/COMPUTER SCIENCES

– Grand Turk & Providenciales, Marketing & Public Relations Manager, Legal Counsel,

Faculty of Humanities & Fine Arts/Education & Training (EDT):

COMMUNICATION STUDIES/PRIMARY EDUCATION Lecturers are required to teach across different academic levels from the G.C.E. Advanced level, Caribbean Advanced Proficiency and up to the Associate and Bachelor Degree levels. Multi-disciplinary candidates are particularly encouraged to apply for these positions. The ideal candidate must have knowledge and skills obtained through collegiate preparation resulting in a Master’s degree (Doctorate preferred) which must include eighteen (18) graduate semester hours in the area being applied for, from an accredited and recognized institution plus a Teaching Diploma or Postgraduate Diploma and no less than three years post qualification teaching experience. A Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of a second class honors or other postgraduate qualifications, teaching certificate/Diploma and experience in teaching at Tertiary level may be considered. SALARY IS IN THE SCALE: Level I: US$27,399.90 – $39,102.30 per annum. Level II: US$40,210 – $43,488.40 per annum. Entry point will depend on qualifications and experience. In the case of staff recruited from overseas, appointment is on contractual terms for an initial period of two years. A gratuity is payable at the end of satisfactory contractual service at the rate of 10% of salary drawn during the period of service. A housing allowance is payable at existing rates. Applications with copies of qualifications (including official transcripts), two character references, a police record and a recent testimonial from current place of employment should be sent to: THE PRESIDENT, TCI COMMUNITY COLLEGE, P.O. BOX 236, LIGHTHOUSE ROAD, GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

Reporting: Human Resource Manager, Information Systems Manager. Liaising The Minister and Ministry of Finance, Actuaries, External, Auditors, Brokers, Relationships: The National Health Insurance Board, Banks, Investment Companies, Insurance Companies, Government Agencies, other National Insurance Organizations, Employers and Scheme participants, the public media Objective: The achievement of overall objectives of the National Insurance Board within the guidelines of the National Insurance Ordinance and Regulations and in keeping with its Mission: to achieve social protection for the aged, working population and their dependents by being financially viable and providing social security in a reliable caring and effective manner through competent motivated staff and informed leadership KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS: • Provision of strong leadership and management of the NIB’s staff in pursuit of its objectives and the fulfillment of the NIB’s responsibilities. • Achievement of strategic, financial and actuarial targets, and meeting obligations to subscribers. • Proper fiscal management and safeguarding the financial viability of the National Insurance Fund. • Development of strategies, policies and procedures for sound governance and ensuring adherence. • Coordination of the development and implementation of effective human resource and performance management systems throughout the NIB. • Development and execution of internal and external communications strategies, including marketing and public relations, to engage stakeholders for effective policy formulation and operations. • Provision of sound advice, recommendations and reports to the Board of Directors and the responsible Minister. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: • A minimum of ten (10) years experience in a senior executive capacity in a similar or related industry, preferably including some experience working with a multi-disciplined Board of Directors • Masters Degree in Business Administration or related discipline from a recognised institution • Proficiency in strategic planning, financial analysis and portfolio management • Training in contemporary management practices and human resource development • Training in marketing and public relations, presentations development and execution, and report writing • Information technology knowledge and its application in monitoring performance standards • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Proven track record of sound decision making and managerial performance Compensation will be within the range of US$95,550 to US$110,000. The position is based at the Head office in Grand Turk. PLEASE RESPOND BY MAIL TO:

The Secretary Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board Hon. Headley Durham Building, Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands, BWI or Email: nib@tcinib.tc Please send your application and résumé by January 31, 2018.

to reach not later than 10th January, 2018. Where possible, applicants should e-mail their applications. EMAIL

tcicomc@tciway.tc president@tcicc.edu.tc dean@tcicc.edu.tc We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for interview will be contacted.

TURKS AND CAICOS NATIONAL INSURANCE BOARD

16884

16876

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

STORE SUPERVISOR Salary: $8.00 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 247-3577

This position is currently held by a work permit holder

16756

SAM’S SHOP

KEW TOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

FISHERMAN SALARY: $8.00 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 342-2511

16901

MICHEL ANGE & CYNTHIA OXIL

LONG BAY IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

PLUMBER/ ELECTRICIAN TILE LAYER CONTRACTOR SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 3331113 OR 333-7970

16896

SANCHEZ & WILLIAMS CAFÉ

OLD AIRPORT ROAD IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

WAITRESS SALARY: 46.50 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 231-2397

SOON FATT RESTAURANT KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

KITCHEN HELPER Salary: $6.25 per hour

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

CONTACT: 346-5721

IRSHA ALEXANDRIA FREITES

NICODERME AUGUSTIN

16891

THE BIGHT IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

16881

seeks to employ a

BABYSITTER DOMESTIC SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK MONDAY- FRIDAY

CONTACT: 231-9205

PREFERENCE FOR BELONGERS

16907

BRANDALEE TRAVENTENA GRAND TURK IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

DOMESTIC WORKER SALARY: $6.25 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK MONDAY- FRIDAY 8:00 A.M-4:00 P.M

CONTACT: 241-2206 THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

16905

VARIOUS POSITIONS AVAILABLE HILL TOP APARTMENTS IS SEEKING A

MAINTENANCE WORKER

WORKER

in Grand Turk 5 days a week at a salary of 250.00 PLEASE CONTACT PASTOR NICO AT TEL NO. 245-7142 16912

CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY WHEELAND IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY

2 MINISTERS SALARY: $200 PER WEEK

CONTACT: 343-4618

16903

ROSESAM’S CONSTRUCTION

KEW TOWN IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

$9.00 PER HOUR

LONG LIFE RETAIL IS SEEKING A

CASHIER

$6.50 PER HOUR

ELECTRICIAN

B&J RESTAURANT & BAR IS SEEKING A

COOK

$6.50 PER HOUR

SALARY: $8.00 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 5 DAYS PER WEEK

RIGBY CLOTHING STORE IS SEEKING A

STORE ATTENDANT $6.50 PER HOUR

BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

CONTACT: 242-8792 FOR FURTHER DETAILS

16888

CONTACT: 342-2511

16902

VACANCIES S.H.A CONTRUCTION IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY • CARPENTERS • WELDER • MASON • PLUMBER • TILE LAYER NEW TECH CONSTRUCTION • CARPENTERS

• WELDER • MASON • PLUMBER • TILE LAYER

WARD CONSTRUCTION LEEWARD HIGHWAY IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER

MAID TO CLEAN • CLEANER (MALE&FEMALE) • GARDENER • MAID SALARY: $9-$11 PER HOUR

SALARY: $7.00 PER HOUR. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 5 DAYS PER WEEK

CONTACT: 946-4923

MUST BE WILLING TO WORK MONDAY – SATURDAY

CONTACT: 231-6858 OR 432-3447

16841

S&F WHOLESALE CASH AND CARRY

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER

6895

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

TRAIL ENTERPRISES

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

SUMMARY The Property Manager is responsible for the general operation, maintenance and record keeping of at least one property, but typically several, which are part of all the company’s management portfolio, reporting to the General Manager on a regular basis. Duties associated with this role include lease negotiation, marketing, bookkeeping, landscape management as well as all tasks associated with co-ordination of property maintenance, repairs, regulations and inspections. As such mandatory experience for this role includes a minimum of 10 years’ experience in business accounting, along with several years of each, team management, contractor co-ordination, real estate management and landscaping management. Successful individuals working in this role generally possess a diverse skillset including the ability to negotiate, build relationships, manage records, attract tenants and coordinate with contractors. Additionally, they should have sound knowledge of real estate, business and financial proceedings. SKILLS • Accounting and Finance background (extensive), with the ability to use QuickBooks and Excel to provide at least monthly reporting to company management and property owners as required. • Administrative skills and demonstrable attention to details. • Communication and negotiation skills dealing with property owners in contract preparation, leasing arrangements and other reporting requirements. • Real Estate background with understanding of property leasing, previous work with maintenance and construction contractors and the ability to identify and resolve issues in extremely prompt fashion( our clients can be paying $1,000’s per night and EVERYTHING must work all the time). • Experience in Landscape management of at least several years, knowledge of plant types, environmental suitability and health. Again some of our properties have individual plants worth in excess of $10-$15,000, it’s the responsibility of the Property manager to ensure correct irrigation/feeding and maintenance of these valuable assets of our clients. • Ability to work flexible hours and extended periods, we have a season that can be very busy, the Property Manager is expected to be available to clients 24/7 when they are in-residence, position is a salaried position and after hours work is expected. • Being positive and encouraging to co-workers and contractors, being courteous to clients. EDUCATION Knowledge and proven experience of management, accounting, real estate, landscaping construction and repairs are mandatory, an extensive health and safety knowledge, along with first aid training is also favored.

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology WHO to classify ‘gaming addiction’ as mental health disorder PUT the controller down and step away from Candy Crush.

The World Organization will

Health classify

“gaming addiction” as an addictive behavior disorder,

EXPANDING COMMUNITY/RETAIL PHARMACY IS SEEKING THE FOLLOWING EMPLOYEES:

similar to gambling disorder, in its 2018 International Classification of Diseases (ICD11), according to a beta draft posted on the ICD website. The International Classification of Diseases contains codes as well as signs and symptoms of diseases and

disorders to be used by healthcare and clinicians across the globe. The organisation classifies gaming addiction as a “pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behaviour which may be online or offline.” The description says that the addiction may manifest by

impaired control over gaming onset, frequency, intensity, duration or context, increasing priority giving to gaming so much so that it takes precedence of over aspects of daily life, and continuing or escalating gameplay despite negative consequences.

5 FULLTIME PHARMACISTS KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE: 1. Dispensing prescription medication, checking dosage, giving advice and instruction on the usage of over-the-counter medicines and medical appliances. 2. Patient counseling on health matters especially relating to managing hypertensive and diabetic patients. 3. Liaising with doctors about prescriptions and new medication 4. Managing, supervising and training pharmacy support staff. SKILLS REQUIRED: 1. A minimum of three years experience within the Retail Pharmacy business will be an asset. 2. Certification from a reputable institution as well as proof of current pharmacist registration. 3. Good communication skills, and keen attention to details 4. Proficient in the English Language however a second language (Spanish or French Creole) will be an asset. 5. Knowledge of the Kroll pharmacy computer program or similar 6. Must be willing to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends in rotation. Salary ranges from $36,000.00 to $42,000.00 annually

1 PHARMACY TECHNICIAN KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE: 1. Assist pharmacist in labeling and filling prescriptions as well as enter prescriptions into the computer 2. Assist patients in dropping off and picking up prescriptions 3. Compound oral solutions, ointments, and creams under Pharmacist supervision 4. Medication ordering 5. Work with insurance carriers to obtain payments and refilling authority. SKILLS REQUIRED: 1. Previous experience working as a Pharmacy Technician 2. Certification from a reputable institution as well as proof of current Pharmacy Technician license. 3. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. 4. Understanding of medical terminology and calculations 5. Proficient in the English Language however a second language (Spanish or French Creole) will be an asset. 6. Must be willing to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends in rotation. 7. Salary ranges from $21,600 to $24,000.00 annually

WAREHOUSE MERCHANDISER/ ATTENDANT NEEDED MUST HAVE THE FOLLOWING 1. Experience working in a warehouse setting 2. Merchandising 3. Valid Driver’s license for 3 years and 25 years old or older The successful candidate MUST be physically fit, able to lift heavy boxes and off load containers. Salary ranges from $20,400 to $21,600.00 annually

Ads are for work permit renewal however Positions are open to all suitably qualified applicants. Applicants can apply for further details via e-mail addressed to the Managing Director, Box 276, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or email jobs@gracebaypharmacy.com.

16908

GOVERNMENT VACANCIES – (APPLICATION DEADLINE: 19th JANUARY 2018)

Job Title: Superintendent of Prisons - CFB6-05 DEPARTMENT: Her Majesty’s Prison LOCATION: Grand Turk Salary: Grade 10 - $73185.00 per annum and Allowances - 24,560.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY The Superintendent of Prisons has national responsibility for the effective management of Her Majesty’s Prison Service in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Job holder will ensure compliance with Prison Ordinance and regulations, protection of the public and the welfare of Prisoners, international standards on the detention of persons and will be an effective partner within the wider criminal justice network. The Job holder will oversee and direct Prison policy and reform to ensure compliance with the Government's Mission and Vision Statements as it relates to the Prison Service and the wider requirements of international law. For more details regarding this position, kindly refer to the attached documents or visit www. gov.tc.

Please ensure that all applications submitted by email clearly states the Job Title in the subject line of the email and all applications received via hard copy is clearly marked with the Job Title. 16956

Is seeking suitable applicants for the following positions: CASHIERS GROCERY PICKERS / VAN LOADERS DELI CLERKS DELI COOK (APPLICANTS WITH PREVIOUS WORK EXPERIENCES AS COOKS PREFERRED) WHOLESALE LATE NIGHT ORDER FILLER / PICKERS DELIVERY DRIVERS – MUST HAVE “B” CLASS DRIVER’S LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: • Must be friendly, hardworking and honest • Must have a clean Police Record • Must be able to work in hot / cold environment • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays • High school education preferred Only persons with TCI status requiring no work permits need apply for these positions Salary ranges from $7.25 to $9.00 per hour

Interested applicants can visit our HR Office located, Leeward Highway, to complete an in-house employment application.

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology Woman receives bionic hand with sense of touch SCIENTISTS in Rome have unveiled the first bionic hand with a sense of touch that can be worn outside a laboratory. The recipient, Almerina Mascarello, who lost her left hand in an accident nearly a quarter of a century ago, said “it’s almost like it’s back again”. In 2014 the same international team produced the world’s first feeling bionic hand. But the sensory and computer equipment it was linked to was too large to leave the laboratory. Now the technology is small enough to fit in a rucksack, making it portable. The development

team included engineers, neuroscientists, surgeons, electronics and robotics specialists from Italy, Switzerland and Germany. HOW IT WORKS The prosthetic hand has sensors that detect information about whether an object is soft or hard. These messages are linked to a computer in a rucksack that converts these signals into a language the brain will understand. The information is relayed to Almerina’s brain via tiny electrodes implanted in nerves in the upper arm. In tests Almerina - who was blindfolded - was able to tell

whether the object she was picking up was hard or soft. She told me: “The feeling is spontaneous as if it were your real hand; you’re finally able to do things that before were difficult, like getting dressed, putting on shoes - all mundane but important things - you feel complete.” This represents another advance in neuroprosthetics, the interface between machine and the human body. Professor Silvestro Micera, a neuroengineer at EPFL in Lausanne and Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies in Pisa told me: “We are going more and more in the direction of science fiction movies like Luke Skywalker’s bionic hand in Star Wars

Hon. Vaden Williams Minister of Home Affairs Communication and Transportation

EARTHQUAKE AWARENESS WEEK MESSAGE My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders and residents alike Earthquake awareness Week will be observed from January 8 -12 under the theme “Shake It Out”. As Minister of Home Affairs, Transportation and Communication with responsibility for Disaster Management I am pleased to associate with the activities planned in observance of this important week and encourage all our communities to get involved. Too often we believed that certain disasters will not impact the TCI. Information and preparation are the keys to mitigate the effects of such disasters. We must get involved and take advantage of the opportunity to gain knowledge to equip ourselves. I support the efforts for the Department of Disaster Management and Emergency to continue to lead the efforts ensuring that adequate preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery mechanisms are established to counteract the impact of an Earthquakes and I urged all residents to take the necessary measures to protect their homes and families in the event of an Earthquake. Do not be caught off-guard “Shake It Out” remember disaster is everybody’s business let us always be prepared. Once again I congratulate the Director and her staff on all the work they are doing to ensure that the public is always informed and prepared in the event of an earthquake here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. God bless our beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands.

- a fully controlled, fully natural, sensorised prosthesis, identical to the human hand.” A robotic prosthesis better than the human hand is still a long way off, but the team believe it might eventually be a reality.

The prosthetic hand has sensors that detect information about whether an object is soft or hard.

QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays Is now interviewing for the following position:

STORE MANAGER

JOB DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS: • Must have experience managing, leading and directing a team of more than 50 associates. • Minimum educational requirement of a Bachelor's Degree in Management. • Must have 10 + years experience with Retail Grocery and Food Service operations. • Must have food safety certifications. Including HACCP, Seafood and Meat Certifications. • Must be available to work weekends (every weekend), nights, holidays and extended hours. • Must be able to lift 50 Lbs or more. • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time. • Must be willing to work in a Freezer regularly for extended periods of time. • Must have 5+ years experience purchasing both locally and overseas. • Must have 5+ years of Grocery and Food Service Inventory Management Experience. • Must be proficient with Quick Books, word and excel. • Must have 5+ years financial management and budgeting experience.

PLEASE APPLY IN PERSON AT 78 INDUSTRIAL RD, 5 CAYS. BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY.

16910

QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays Is now interviewing for the following position:

LOSS PREVENTION & LOGISTICS COORDINATOR JOB DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS: • Must be trained in security techniques and hold certificate of training. • Must be trained in logistic coordination and hold certificate of training. • Must have a minimum of 5 years job experience in security and logistics fields. • Must be willing to work variable schedules including holidays, nights and weekends. • Must be willing to work for extended periods of time in extreme environments (coolers, freezers & warehouse) • Must be proficient in Quick Books, Microsoft word, Excel, Power Point, Back Office. • Must be proficient in: Counter Internet and Cyber Hacking. PLEASE APPLY IN PERSON AT 78 INDUSTRIAL RD, 5 CAYS. BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY.

16911

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology Multivitamins and folic acid use by pregnant mothers help lower autism risk in children IF you’re pregnant, a new study released this week may give you one more reason to

listen to your doctor if he or she prescribes a folic acid or multivitamin supplement.

Researchers in Israel studied 45,300 children born between Jan. 1, 2003 and

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE CAP9.01

NOTICE OF LOST LAND CERTIFICATE TITLE NUMBER 60713/7

SECTION ISLAND CHESHIRE HALL PROVIDENCIALES & RICHMOND HILL

Take that I, Brandie Anderson, Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new land certificate for the said title six weeks from the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette.

16916

BAY BISTRO

POSITION AVAILABLE Sous Chef

• The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, self-motivated, energetic and creative with good people and organization skills. • Must be willing to work all public holidays and weekends • Knowledge in the following areas in a necessity, mother sauces, basic vegetable cuts, garde manager and mis en place, cutting and dressing of meat cuts, fish and shellfish, kitchen management, food costing, safety and sanitation. • Computer literacy in MS, Excel absolutely essential. • Qualified application must have classical training with exposure to Modern Caribbean Fusion and a broad range of European cookery styles, French, Mediterranean as Asian with at least 6 years’ experience in a similar capacity. • Qualification city and guilds or diploma from an internationally recognized institution. Salary commensurate with experience

QUALIFIED BELONGERS ONLY PLEASE SUBMIT RESUMES TO P.O BOX 459, PROVIDENCIALES

study aims to examine the association between maternal supplementation with FA and multivitamins before and/ or during pregnancy and the risk of ASD (autism spectrum disorder) in offspring.” What researchers found: Those mothers who got either or both of the supplements during pregnancy had an estimated 73 percent lower chance of having a baby with an autism spectrum disorder than women who were not prescribed one or both of these supplements.

“Maternal exposure to folic acid and/or multivitamin supplements before pregnancy was statistically significantly associated with a lower likelihood of ASD in the offspring compared with no exposure before pregnancy,” researchers said. “Maternal exposure to folic acid and/ or multivitamin supplements during pregnancy was statistically significantly associated with a lower likelihood of ASD in offspring compared with no exposure during pregnancy.”

NATIONAL COLONY REALTY LTD

A job vacancy exist for a

MARIE MILLWORK

who duties would include basic housekeeping and child care. Remuneration is $7.50 per hour and work days are Mondays to Fridays from 1pm to 5pm. For more information and to arrange an appointment, kindly

4 DOMESTIC WORKERS 5 LABOURERS 1 CARPENTER

seeks to employ a

Whereas JAMES MURPHY, Director of Cockburn Directors Ltd, The Director to A&R Construction Ltd of No.1 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands has declared that the Land Certificate for the above-mentioned title number registered in the name of A & R CONSTRUCTION LTD was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found.

Dated this 29th day of November 2017. Signed Brandie Anderson; Registrar of Lands Witnessed: Kissyah Gardiner

Dec. 31, 2007, also looking at survey data that indicated whether their mothers were prescribed multivitamin and folic acid supplements. The children were followed from birth to Jan. 26, 2015.”Maternal vitamin deficiency during pregnancy is inconsistently associated with cognitive functioning in offspring. ... Hence, FA (folic acid) and multivitamin supplements are routinely recommended to pregnant women,” the study’s authors said. “Our

LABOURER

5 days a week at a salary of $300.00 per week please contact Theresa MENELY AT

TELEPHONE NO. 946-5945

16914

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONTACT YAA MCCARTNEY, PO BOX 54, PALM GROVE, GRAND TURK AND TELEPHONE NUMBER 16913 946-2067.

FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ

Salary: $6.25 per hour

CONTACT: 344-3710

16919

QUALITY FOOD SERVICES

78 Industrial Road, 5 Cays Is now interviewing for the following position:

FOOD SERVICE FROZEN ORDER PICKER JOB DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS: • Must have at least 2 years experience in working with Food Service Products. • Picks orders daily for Food Service Customers (mostly restaurants) • Must be able to work in a very cold environment for extended periods of time (temperature is -10 Fahrenheit or -23 Celsius). • Must be familiar with Food Service Products and be able to identify different brand names and pack sizes. • Must have a sense of urgency in accurately picking an order for the customer. • Must be able to lift up to 65 Lbs. • Must have prior experience, (preferably certification) to operate manual pallet jack, electric jack and LP operated forklift. • Must be able to work any hours including but not limited to nights, holidays and weekends.

Please apply in person at 78 Industrial Rd, 5 Cays (next to Smithco) Belongers only need apply.

16908

January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

Manchester City ranked as the world’s most financially powerful club BOTH at home and abroad, Manchester City have swept all before them this season. Pep Guardiola’s side have scored 78 goals in 28 games in the English Premier League and the Champions League -- an average of nearly three goals a match -- and have lost just once. They’ve done so playing a thrilling brand of football that has fans and pundits cooing with delight. If City has become accustomed to breaking records on the pitch this season, the Premier League side is now also dominating off the field, according to a new football finance report. In a study conducted by Soccerex -- organisers of the world’s biggest football finance forum -- City were deemed the world’s most financially powerful club, beating traditional powerhouses like Real Madrid, Barcelona and cross-city rivals Manchester United. David Wright, Soccerex Marketing Director, said the company’s first study into football finance highlighted how the football landscape has changed globally over the last two decades. “We wanted to create a study that provided a broader evaluation of football finances, one that reflected the modern reality of football, impacted by increased owner investment and the need for better financial management,” Wright said in a statement. “The results have certainly been eye-catching.” City’s rivals are also starting to realise the implications of the financial might of the club, which is owned by an Abu Dhabi-based multibillionaire. In December, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho, who has spent over $400 million on players

Ex-Saints youth coach Bob Higgins is accused of multiple counts of indecent assault against boys.

Manchester City have twice won the EPL title under the ownership of the Mansour family.

since his arrival at the start of the 2016/2017 season, complained about how City had bought defenders for the usual value of strikers at the start of this season. “It is not enough,” Mourinho said of United’s recent spending after his team drew 2-2 with Burnley. “And the price for the big clubs, the price for the big clubs is different from the other clubs. So the big, historical clubs are normally punished in the market for that history. “When you tell [describe] a club like Manchester United, do you think AC Milan is not as big as us? You think they are not as big as we are? Do you think Real Madrid are not as big as we are? You think Inter Milan is not as big as we are? There are many big clubs and you say big clubs, I know what is a big club.” While City, managed by former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach Guardiola, came top, fellow EPL side Arsenal were second and big-spending French club Paris StGermain, who broke the world record last summer to acquire Neymar from Barcelona, third.

Reflecting China’s growing influence in the sport, Guangzhou Evergrande, regarded as the country’s glamor side, were fourth -two places ahead of reigning Spanish champions and 12-time European Cup winners Real Madrid and nine places above Barca, who are 13th. According to the study, the financial clout of Barca, five-time winners of the European Cup, and Real was stifled by the clubs’ member ownership structures and the lack of potential owner investment. However, the study did point out that should Real be capitalized on the stock markets, their overall financial power would make them worth more than any other club, regardless of the wealth of billionaire owners. Nine Chinese Super League clubs, which have spent heavily in the last couple of years to attract superstar players, were in the top 100, equal to Spain and more than France, Germany and Italy. Five of the top 10 clubs play in the EPL, while Italy’s Juventus are eighth and German league champions Bayern Munich 10th.

Cole signs one-year LA Galaxy contract extension FORMER England defender Ashley Cole has signed a one-year contract extension with Los Angeles Galaxy. Cole, 37, joined Galaxy in January 2016 and has played 55 times in two seasons. The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea leftback played 107 times for England but ended his international career when he was not selected for the 2014 World Cup. “He’s been a tremendous leader for our club,” said Galaxy head coach Sigi Schmid, whose side start their season against Portland Timbers on 4 March. “He’s shown he can be successful in this league and we’re confident that will continue in the season ahead.” (BBC)

Cole has made 55 appearances for Los Angeles Galaxy.

Bob Higgins: Ex-Southampton coach denies child abuse charges A FORMER Southampton Football Club youth coach has pleaded not guilty to 50 counts of child abuse. Bob Higgins, 64, is accused of carrying out indecent assaults on 24 boys between 1970 and 1996. Mr Higgins, of Litchfield Road,

Southampton, was the youth development officer at Southampton in the 1980s. He was granted unconditional bail by a judge at Bournemouth Crown Court and is due to appear for trial at Salisbury Crown Court on 29 May. (BBC)

The defender won the top prize of €1,000,000 on the National Lottery’s Millionaire Raffle draw which took place on New Year’s Eve.

Irish footballer O’Connor hits lottery jackpot with $1.2 million win NEW Year’s Day proved quite the rollercoaster for Irish footballer Kevin O’Connor. First he watched from the substitutes’ bench as his team suffered another defeat in English football’s second tier before a big victory came the 22-year-old’s way -- a lottery win which would make him a millionaire. O’Connor, who plays for Preston North End in the Championship, was given the winning ticket as a present by his godfather and uncle, Peadar Murphy, who posted the ticket with the message: “I wish you the best of luck.” “We had a game with Middlesbrough on Monday night so I completely put it to the back of my head until after the final whistle,” O’Connor, who helped Cork City

win the league and cup double last season, told reporters. “It’s been an incredible two days and I don’t think the win has sunk in yet.” The Ireland Under-21 defender told reporters that it was his mother, Breda, who had told him that he should check his numbers after the winning ticket was said to have been sold locally. His uncle had bought the ticket at Flanagan’s Centra in Castlebridge, County Wexford. O’Connor returned to Ireland on Tuesday to validate his ticket and then collected his €1,000,000 ($1.2 million) winnings in the National Lottery offices in Dublin. The left-back said he had “no immediate plans” on how to spend his fortune.

January 6-12, 2018

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Man Utd manager says he wants to stay at the club Murray has not competed in a major since Wimbledon last summer.

Murray pulls out of Australian Open FORMER world No.1 Andy Murray, who has not played competitively since July because of a hip injury, has withdrawn from the Australian Open. “Sadly I won’t be playing in Melbourne this year, as I am not yet ready to compete,” said the threetime grand slam champion in a tweet on the Australian Open Twitter feed Thursday. “I’ll be flying home shortly to assess all the options.” Murray, now ranked 16th in the world, attempted a return at the US Open in August but pulled out two days before the start of the tournament and his only oncourt appearances since have been exhibitions. “I’ve obviously been going through a really difficult period with my hip for a long time and have sought council from a number of hip specialists,” Murray wrote on Instagram earlier this week. “Having been recommended to treat my hip conservatively since the US Open I have done everything asked of me from a rehab perspective and worked extremely hard to try get back on the court competing. “Having played practice sets here in Brisbane with some top players

unfortunately this hasn’t worked yet to get me to the level I would like so I have to reassess my options. Obviously continuing rehab is one option and giving my hip more time to recover. “Surgery is also an option but the chances of a successful outcome are not as I high as I would like which has made this my secondary option and my hope has been to avoid that. However this is something I may have to consider but let’s hope not.” The Australian Open starts on January 15 and Murray is not the only high profile player to withdraw. Kei Nishikori will miss his second consecutive grand slam as he has not yet fully recovered from a wrist injury. Nishikori, a US Open finalist, has not competed since August and has consequently dropped to 22 in the world rankings. “My rehab is going well but I am just not ready 100% to come back yet in best-of-five set matches,” said the 28-year-old. Novak Djokovic, winner of 12 grand slams, on Wednesday said he will make a decision on whether to participate in the Australian Open after taking part in two exhibition events.

JOSE Mourinho has branded claims he is ready to leave Manchester United at the end of the season as “garbage”. Mourinho is in discussions over a new contract but it has been claimed he is so unhappy at Old Trafford that he is ready to walk away. His commitment has also been questioned as he continues to live in a hotel rather than move into his own house. “I say garbage. I don’t find a better word than to define the talk,” Mourinho said. “The worst thing someone can do is put one inch of doubt into my professionalism, to every detail related to my job, so yes the garbage news affected me just on this aspect because it’s something I don’t admit. “I repeat I am in the middle of my contract, if I am going to sign a new one it depends on the club but my commitment is total and I want to stay.” Mourinho, whose current deal does not expire until 2019, is in the second year of a three-year contract. It is understood detailed conversations have taken place between United executive vicechairman Ed Woodward and Mourinho’s advisers over extending his stay at Old Trafford. “I see myself here,” added Mourinho. “It is just a question of the club, the board the owners, Mr Woodward, they are all happy with my contribution and they want me to stay beyond the end of this contract.” The Portuguese also addressed his apparent unhappiness at his present situation. “Because I don’t behave as a clown on the touchline? It means I lost my passion?” said the 54-yearold. I prefer to do it the way I do it, much more mature, better for my

Jose Mourinho has made his feelings clear more money needs to be spent on his United squad to challenge for the Premier League title.

team and myself, you don’t have to behave like a crazy guy on the touchline. “The way a person is dedicated to his work, not what you do in front of the cameras.” It is thought that sources inside Manchester United have been bewildered by speculation over Mourinho’s future. They remain adamant that Mourinho is happy at Old Trafford, despite obvious frustration at being 15 points adrift of a Manchester City side managed by his old rival Pep Guardiola. United beat Everton 2-0 in their most recent match but drew three games - against Leicester, Burnley and Southampton - over the Christmas period. Club sources, however, believe that Mourinho remains a jovial figure at United’s Carrington training complex and dispute a claim that he has become withdrawn and rarely speaks to staff. In addition, they say whilst Mourinho does travel down to his

home in London, where his family still live, the United boss is present on the training ground whenever the first team is there - unlike Sir Alex Ferguson, who in his latter years was not averse to missing the odd session. Mourinho has made his feelings known both inside and outside the club that more needs to be spent on his squad to make it competitive. However, inside Old Trafford this has been viewed as an observation the squad Mourinho inherited was inferior to that of Manchester City, rather than an outright attack on the money he has been given during his 18 months in charge. Mourinho evidently wants to strengthen his squad, although United have already told Inter Milan they are not willing to enter into a loan agreement for Armenian midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan and would only consider a straight sale. However, Inter are not in a position to buy Mkhitaryan outright because of Financial Fair Play restrictions imposed by Uefa.

Alpine skier Shiffrin crowned ‘Snow Queen’ MIKAELA Shiffrin is officially the Snow Queen. The American slalom ski racer secured her seventh win in just 14 starts this season in Croatia Wednesday, dominating alpine skiing’s first major World Cup event of 2018. The 22-year-old scored her 38th World Cup win and now has 1081 points in the overall World Cup standings -- more than double the total of her nearest rival, Germany’s Viktoria Rebensburg (510). Shiffrin was handed the Zagreb event’s traditional glass Snow Queen crown by Croatian four-time Olympic champion Janica Kostelic -- a true great she is already well on

the way to emulating. But unfortunately for Shiffrin’s slalom rivals, complacency simply isn’t on the cards. “I’m going to go back out there in the next days, train and race again,” Shiffrin told CNN Alpine Edge. “I don’t feel like a snow queen, I just feel like another girl trying to ski fast.” Shiffrin, champion in this event in 2013 and 2015, now has three Snow Queen crowns. “I love racing here so I wanted to come back and have a little bit of redemption and ski aggressive,” she said. “I am feeling really good with my skiing.” Should the American maintain her

red-hot form over the coming months, she could finish the season with a record points tally -- obliterating the current best mark of 2,414 set by retired Slovenian Tina Maze. “I don’t know if I will ever be able to do that. It’s not really one of my goals,” said Shiffrin, who has made the podium in 23 of her past 24 slaloms. “I also have so much respect for the season that Tina Maze had with so many points, it was incredible. “There is a part of me that hopes that nobody ever beats that because she should really be remembered as one of the best ski racers of all time.” (CNN)

The 22-year-old scored her 38th World Cup win and now has 1081 points in the overall World Cup standings.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018

SPORTS YEAR IN REVIEW

The BWIC Spartan Girls dedicated their win in the 2017 Inter-High School Softball Championships to former team captain Latrivia Grant, who died in December of 2016.

Despite the hurricanes of September that damaged several sporting venues and postponed the start of several leagues and competitions, 2017 was not without its excitement when it came to sports in the TCI. There were several national records achieved and international marks made by local athletes. In this, our first edition of the year, we will look back at some of the exciting moments in the last 12

months.

her progression dispelled all doubts.

JANUARY National athlete Helcy-Ann Brianna Sauver resuscitated her athletic career in January of 2017. After a less than progressive 2016, the sprinter was unsure about her athletic future, but in the first few weeks of last year,

The then Holmwood Technical High School student clocked personal bests in the 100M, the 150M and 200M events before anchoring her team to second place in the 4X100M at the Central Hurdles and Relays meet at the GC Foster College in Jamaica on January 21. Also in track, TCI’s first Olympian Delano Williams won his opening race in January with a time of 46.67s. Although slower than his 400M PB of 45.42s in 2015, the run was still one of the fastest time for the year when it happened. In football, Bass 011 played unbeaten to win the inaugural Caicos United Premier League, while national captain Billy Forbes returned to San Antonio to play with the San Antonio FC. Forbes would go on to score a club season record of 10 goals. The Filipino Basketball League, which started in 2016, was also completed in January, but in an unceremonious way. Freedom Fighters won the title after Danesh quit, which led to a one-year suspension for the second place finishers. In softball, the BWIC Spartan Girls won the Inter-High School Softball Championships. They dedicated their win to the memory of former team captain Latrivia Grant, who died in December of 2016.

FEBRUARY

Akia Guerrier ran personal bests/national records in both the 60M and the 200M indoor events early last year.

If January belonged to Sauver, February was the month of TCI’s best sprinter Akia Guerrier. The K-State University student, who holds the

National athlete Helcy-Ann Brianna Sauver resuscitated her athletic career in January of 2017.

outdoor records in the 100M, 200M and 400M, began her conquest of the indoor sprint distances. The teen registered national records in the 60M and the 200M. She was also able to better her times as the season progressed. Guerrier was not the only record breaker in February. Wikenson Fenelon tied Woodens Corvil’s pole vault record in early February, before breaking it a week later. One of the most exciting moments early last year happened in football, when the national U12 team won TCI’s first overseas football tournament. The pre-teen boys won the Weston Cup and Showcase held in Weston, Florida. The Zachary Scholar led team played unbeaten to the title. Youth football had another moment to celebrate in February when FortisTCI sponsored a 22-teams Youth League. Almost 300 youngsters competed for six U13 co-ed teams, and eight teams (boys and girls) each in the U11 and U9 divisions. Another historic signing took place in Colombia when Chairperson of the TCI Sports Association Judith Robinson and General Secretary Ben Stubenberg got TCI voted in as a Central American and Caribbean Sporting Organisation (CASCO) associate member. TCI qualified by highlighting 10

of the local sporting entities with international affiliations. Records from athletics, football, basketball, cycling, rugby, sailing, softball, swimming, tennis and volleyball were used. With the unanimous vote, the island chain is now set to compete in this year’s games.

MARCH More athletic records were broken in March. It started at the National High School Track and Field Championships when seasoned athlete Sanadia Forbes broke a 34-year-old TCI high jump record. The then 18-year-old BWIC sixth form student had jumped 1.63M to eclipse the 1983 record of Mary Lightbourne, now Mary Kemp. Another track star, middle distance runner Ken Reyes broke his own 800M record at the Digicel Grand Prix at the National Stadium in Jamaica while competing for Jamaica College. In football, TCI was given its highest Beach Soccer rankings. The team, which performed admirably at the CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championships in the Bahamas in late February, was placed as the fourth best Caribbean nation, sixth best in CONCACAF and 73rd in the world. In the international competition, TCI had registered a 4-1 win over the USVI and held their own against some strong nations. The Provo Hockey League concluded in March with the

January 6-12, 2018

Sports National

Sanadia Forbes broke a 34-year-old record at last year’s National High School Track and Field Championships.

The TCI U12 Boys dominated their age division to win the Weston Cup in February of 2017.

Scotiabank Sailfish, the Coco Bistro Bruins and the Villa del Mar Flyers winning the 2016/2017 PHL titles. The Bruins and the Sailfish had recorded comfortable wins against

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

the Turkberry Hurricanes (6-1) and the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders (4-2); but it was a fight for the Flyers, who withheld an onslaught by the Gansevoort Gators towards the end

of their game for a 9-8 finish.

APRIL Fenelon continued his dominance in April. He finished third in the decathlon at Jamaica’s Champs. The feat was a TCI record, as he earned 6270 points, 40 more than what Woodens Corvil made in 2016. Incidentally, it was Corvil, Fenelon’s Jamaica College schoolmate and friend, who coached him throughout the event and spurred him on to break the record. Fenelon then captured silver in his

first ever Octathlon at the CARIFTA Games. He missed the gold medal by a single point. Also at the Games, Akia Guerrier, Shavell Sutherland, Helcyann Sauver and anchor Sanadia Forbes ran the fastest time ever by a TCI female relay team, while Colby Jennings finished with a bronze medal in the U18 400M race. In Jamaica, Reyes’s desire to be better in the 800M resulted in him registered new national records. In rugby, The Meridian Marauders defeated Le Bouchon Nuff Said to win the Carlisle Supplies Spring Tag Rugby League.

TCI’s most outstanding bodybuilder, former athlete, Denique Scott won both his class (Physique A division) and the overall title in April. In high school volleyball, the BWIC females and the Wesley Methodist males were crowned respective champions, while TCI’s relay team of Ifeanyi Otuonye, Angelo Garland, Frantzley Benjamin and Devante Gardiner broke TCI’s 4X200M relay record while competing at the IAAF/BTC World Relays.

The Meridian Marauders won the 2017 Spring Tag Rugby League title.

The Coco Bistro Bruins recorded a 6-1 win against the Turkberry Hurricanes in the 2016/2017 PHL Bantam Division final.

Wikenson Fenelon (in picture) broke Woodens Corvil’s decathlon national record in early April at Champs last year, before copping silver in the Octathlon at the CARIFTA Games.

Denique Scott won both his class (Physique A division) and the overall title last April.

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Beljour invited to MLS Caribbean Combine NATIONAL footballer Jeff Beljour is one of 22 players across the region invited to participate in the Major League Soccer (MLS) Caribbean Combine, which will take place at the Sawgrass Hotel and Suites Sports Complex near Fort Lauderdale, Florida, from January 9-11. The central defender, who participate in the Florida Kraze Krush (FKK) College ID Camp two years ago, is the captain of the TCI U20 Men’s National Team, the TCIFA Boys Academy team, as well as a representative of the TCI Men’s National Beach Soccer Team. The invitation-only annual event organised jointly by MLS, the top professional men’s football league and Caribbean Football Union (CFU), showcases Caribbean talent between the ages of 18-21 years. All 31 CFU member associations were encouraged to nominate representatives who fit the criteria. Selected players are given an opportunity to compete in front of league scouts prior to the MLS Super Draft, where MLS Clubs sign players during the transfer window.

Jeff Beljour is one of TCI’s best young football talents.

Those players will then advance to the MLS Combine, which usually runs from March to October, with each team playing 34 games. “One of the primary objectives of the TCIFA is to create player pathways for the talented and elite players within our programmes,” opined General Secretary of the TCIFA, Oliver Smith. “We see this as a way of further developing our

players, which in turn will improve the quality of our senior national team. This is a massive opportunity for Jeff to be exposed to an intense and higher level of football with the hope that his quality will be recognised.” “We wish him all the best and we are comforted that he will represent us well and fly the Turks and Caicos Islands flag in a very high fashion.”

January 6-12, 2018

Bruised knee almost derailed Robinson’s running goal TCI’s most outstanding long distance runner Lynn Robinson had an uphill task in attempting to complete 3000 miles last year. In fact, it was not until December 31 that she achieved the feat when she clocked six miles in an early morning run. “Most days I was running both morning and evening, between 10-12 per day. It was getting very mentally challenging in the last couple of weeks too.” Leaving out the volume of activities, the 49-year-old suffered a slight injury during one of her runs. “I did worry that I wasn’t going to finish when I tripped over a branch on the side of the road with 3 weeks to go. My knee was pretty bruised and sore but I was still able to run thankfully. It’s still a little sore even now but at least I can rest a little more now.” On average, Robinson ran 8.219 miles per day, although some days she clocked a lot more, like early last month when she competed in the Reggae Marathon in Jamaica. NEXT GOAL Although Robinson does not intend

Lynn Robinson was outstanding last year. She clocked a whopping 3000 miles in 365 days.

to emulate her 2017 feat, she will not be having an easy year. She said that the plan for 2018 is the TCI marathon this month, then a 54K hilly run in Tortola on her 50 birthday in April, before 120 miles over a six-day race in Bhutan in May. The Vegan runner is also looking to attempt her first 100-mile event in England this September. “So my training is going to be more specific to these events...hill training and endurance.”

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January 6-12, 2018

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

January 6-12, 2018