TC Weekly News March 30 - April 5, 2021

Weekly News Volume 35 | No. 13 | March 30 - April 5, 2021

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT:

Price $1.00

TURKS AND CAICOS

tcnews@tciway.tc

TELEPHONE (649) 946-4664

THE NATIONAL NEWSPAPER OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

COUNTDOWN TO

RITZ-CARLTON OPENING Hiring of 300 workers to man TCI’s first 12-storey resort now underway There’s a palpable buzz in the air as the TCI counts down to the opening of the Islands’ first 12-storey development – and its first luxury-branded homes – now just 12 weeks away.

PAGE



5

CORRECTION Last week the TC Weekly News published the front-page headline ‘New SIPT trial begins April 12’, inaccurately representing the content of the story.

This was a tentative date mentioned by Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang and remains entirely dependent on the outcome of the latest motions presented in court.

The newspaper apologises to the chief justice and anyone else who may have been affected by the error.

A DECADE LATER, STILL NO RESOLUTION TO CORRUPTION CASE PAGE  6

RESIDENTS TURN OUT IN DROVES TO RECEIVE $1,000 CHEQUES

PAGE  7

COVID-19 SURVIVOR: ‘I THOUGHT I WAS NOT GOING TO MAKE IT’

PAGE  8

2

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

3

4

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Anticipation mounts ahead of Ritz-Carlton opening Hiring of 300 workers to man TCI’s first 12-storey resort now underway

BY GEMMA HANDY There’s a palpable buzz in the air as the TCI counts down to the opening of the Islands’ first 12-storey development – and its first luxury-branded homes – now just 12 weeks away.

Had it not been for the pandemic, the controversy which initially abounded over the RitzCarlton resort’s height might have lingered. In reality, what threatened to be an economic catastrophe for the nation just might have been the developers’ boon.

Today, the towering structures dominating the Grace Bay skyline, dwarfing their neighbours, stand as a paragon of hope, a light at the end of a dark tunnel as the TCI starts to dust itself off from the effects of the worst global crisis in a century.

The process of hiring the estimated 300 staff needed to man the hotel is now underway – music to the ears of the many local residents who lost jobs to the coronavirus.

Asked about the development’s impending impact on the TCI, general manager John Hazard’s

HR director Danitra Clare wants to show people what opportunities hospitality can bring (Ritz-Carlton)

passion is tangible.

“People have accepted its height on the basis of what the hotel and brand will bring to the local

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 Rebecca Bird - News Editor (At Large) Olivia Rose - Senior 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 Instagram: @tcweeklynews1

economy,” he tells the Weekly News.

“I have been here since January, and the welcome I have had from local businesses, residents and the Government has been overwhelming.

“We are on track to open on June 22 and we have had a fantastic amount of interest,” the British businessman continues.

“We have been very busy and 2022 is already looking very, very good. People are clearly ready to travel, especially those in the luxury end of the market.”

It’s no secret the Islands’ real estate sector has boomed in the last year, despite the odds, reaping dividends in everything from stamp duty revenue to the trickledown effects of a new batch of well-heeled residents spending time and cash here.

“The private homes have been very popular. All of Tower A has sold out – that’s 36 condos – along with 70 percent of Tower B [24 condos],” Hazard says.

“Most of our buyers are from North America but we have had significant local interest too.”

In three months’ time, the very first guests will check in to the resort’s deluxe 147-key hotel.

On hand to cater to them will be hundreds of specially trained staff.

General manager John Hazard says bookings are already booming (Ritz-Carlton)

And this is where the RitzCarlton brand really comes into its own; superlative service is a prerequisite for the industryleading firm.

“It’s our aim to get more local islanders into hospitality,” Hazard explains. “One of our goals is to support the education sector by establishing a structured programme of hospitality training.

“We will also develop internship programmes, attracting and growing the local talent that’s here.”

One way of ensuring the latter is via a forthcoming training scheme, delivered by 40 of the company’s most highly-rated hospitality professionals who are jetting in entirely for this purpose.

“Each trainer has their own area of expertise – for example, in the art of mixology; the cocktails of 10 years ago are certainly not what they are now.

“We will also have human resources professionals to give seminars and we have some great chefs coming in too,” Hazard says.

“Ritz-Carlton is investing very heavily in the countdown process to opening. This is probably a first for the brand.”

In addition to helping the hotel’s own staff sculpt their skills, the company will also roll out training seminars to the wider community

to give other local residents a legup in the sector too.

“We want to show people what opportunities hospitality can bring,” says Danitra Clare, director of human resources operations.

“The pandemic has left a lot of people unemployed; we want to engage with them and enhance the level of hospitality skills the TCI has to offer,” she explains.

By the end of 2022, the company plans to expand its workforce to 400, from its initial complement of 300.

A recruitment fair kicked off on Monday to help fill openings in everything from front-of-house and food and beverage, to the spa and casino.

“The wages will be competitive and will likely exceed the going rate,” Clare says. “We want to be an employer of choice.

“Staff will benefit from the robust training we offer, with opportunities to grow and create a meaningful career in the industry.”

Scores of residents have already embarked on a 10-week gaming academy with participants first in line to be considered for one of the 60 jobs in the resort’s 5,000 square foot casino.

Like the rest of Ritz-Carlton’s CONTINUED 

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

5

The Ritz-Carlton will bring new first-rate facilities to the TCI, including a BLT Steak restaurant, and create hundreds more jobs (Ritz-Carlton) CONTINUED 

facilities, the casino will be open to the general public.

“We want to be very much the centre of the community, providing a welcome to everyone who wants to come in,” Hazard says.

An on-site BLT Steak restaurant will be the latest addition to TCI’s lauded culinary scene. The fine-dining eatery fuses contemporary steakhouse fare with seafood dishes and signature salads.

There will also be a

Minister of Tourism Hon. Josephine Connolly (Facebook/Progressive National Party)

Mediterranean poolside restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner, a luxurious spa, and a lobby with a public bar.

Within the hotel itself, there are nine more properties for sale. The entire development spans 10.5 acres and 700 linear feet of Grace

Bay Beach.

For the next few weeks, the hundreds of workers hired for the Ritz-Carlton’s construction will be putting the finishing touches to the resort which is set to become another jewel in the TCI’s esteemed tourism crown.

“The mood surrounding this development is very upbeat right now,” Hazard adds. “People are starting to see green shoots of recovery in the Islands - and light at the end of the tunnel.”

Visit www.ritzcarlton.com/ careers for details of job vacancies.

Grace Bay Resorts chief operating officer Nikheel Advani encourages US travellers to visit the TCI on Fox Business show ‘Mornings with Maria’ (Screenshot/Fox Business)

Tourist arrivals from US expected to increase, says tourism minister

BY OLIVIA ROSE Minister of Touristm Hon. Josephine Connolly has said tourist arrivals from the United States to the Turks and Caicos Islands will

increase over the next few months.

Despite the demand plunge in the tourism sector due to Covid-19 pandemic and related restrictions, local tourism officials are optimistic that the tide will turn

for the industry. “… projections for the next coming months show an encouraging increase in arrivals from the United States, our main market,” Connolly said during

her ministerial speech during the House of Assembly on Monday, March 22.

The tourism minister said that with increases in vaccination rates the ministry will have to determine

how it will manage the TCI Assured portal in the coming months.

“The ministry and Tourist Board spent most of the last year very CONTINUED 

7

6

NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

A decade later, still no resolution to corruption case Accused say their constitutional rights have been violated

BY DELANA ISLES It has been 10 years since the corruption accused were first charged, 12 years since the Commission of Inquiry was launched, and 18 years since the offences were alleged to have been committed, and to date still no judgement on their guilt or innocence.

This length of time with still no resolution is a violation of the rights of the accused to a hearing within a reasonable time, Ariel Misick QC said in a constitutional motion last week.

Misick was presenting his motion on behalf of the plaintiffs six of the seven corruption accused with the exception of Clayton Green.

The matter was heard by Chief Justice Mable Agyemang during a virtual hearing on March 25 and 26.

The lawyer was clear that the reason for the motion is not predicated on the death of the trial judge, the late Justice Paul Harrison in February.

Misick said there are three criteria to determine whether the defendants’ constitutional rights have been breached, these are: the length of the delay, the conduct of the accused and significantly, the conduct of the administrative and judicial authority.

He added: “So, in a sense a

Chief Justice Mable Agyemang

Ariel Misick QC

constitutional motion may entail the court having to look at itself in determining whether… it contributed towards the breach of the reasonable time guarantee.”

The constitutional motion is separate from another application that was heard before the court this week - that of an abuse of process application.

Misick spent much of his arguments explaining why the two motions are separate and should be treated as such.

“In the case of an abuse of process there is a requirement… for the defendants to show prejudice… but there is no requirement for the defendants to show that he’s been prejudiced in a constitutional motion… and the available remedies are not the same.”

He stated that if the court finds that the reasonable time for a hearing has been breached, then there ought to be a remedy.

“The usual remedy is for the court to first declare that there has been a breach, and if the court makes a declaration it then considers whether there ought to be additional forms of relief,” the lawyer argued.

He added that the plaintiff has filed an originating summons in which they asked for various forms of relief.

“This is not a frivolous application, because on the face of it there has been undue delay. Now whether it rises to the level where it… constitutes a breach is one of the matters the court would have to decide.

“But what is unquestionable is that there has been a long delay.”

He concluded his submission by stating: “In the absence of any cogent justification for the 12 years since the plaintiff were charged, and in the absence of any explanation as to why it took from 2009 to 2011 before they were charged.

“And taking into account the fact that the offences for which they were charged occurred in 2003, one would have expected a greater degree of explanation and justification instead of the prosecution simply shifting the blame to the plaintiff.”

He added: “And in particular, there is no reference in the material to address the third factor which is the role played by the administrative and judicial authority.”

He said the question to be asked is: “Is what happened in this case justifiable; and we would submit it is not.”

“The time has come, and enough is enough,” Misick said, while urging the court to consider staying the criminal proceedings, or at the very least make a declaration that the defendants’ rights have been violated.

CROWN SAYS DELAY WAS PROCEDURAL Following Misick’s submission SIPT prosecutor, Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell presented the Crown’s application to strike out

Tourist arrivals from US expected to increase... much involved with the Covid-19 response and the setting up and management of the TCI Assured portal,” she said.

“The portal continues to assess persons entering the country to avoid the importation of Covid-19.”

She explained that in the coming weeks, the Ministry of Tourism will assess the workings of the portal and work with the Ministry of Health to review the current entry protocols.

April and May are traditionally peak travel months for US tourists to the TCI. “Although, we know we will not meet the pre Covid numbers, we are still encouraged that the numbers regarding arrivals show increases in arrival,” the minister

said.

“This is not for us to let our guard down. We are promoting our Islands as a safe and secure destination with clear pre-arrival protocols and a vaccination programme.”

She urged residents to get vaccinated.

“This act helps you and helps our country as well, it will put us on the map as a country that is doing all it can to prevent and protect against the spread of Covid-19.”

PROMOTING TCI The Tourist Board has been working with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, a public relations firm and local tourism partners to promote destination

TCI. “Our public relations and marketing teams are continuing an aggressive promotional programme centred around the safety and security of visits to the TCI,” Connolly said.

As part of the campaign, Grace Bay Resorts chief operating officer Nikheel Advani appeared live on Fox Business show ‘Mornings with Maria’ on Thursday, March 25.

During the programme, hosted by veteran business journalist Maria Bartiromo, Advani said despite the setbacks brought on by the pandemic, the TCI is still one of the most sought-after destinations in the region.

“We’ve had about a year which has been very quiet and

the plaintiff’s constitutional motion.

Mitchell said significant parts of the delay were procedural, and that the Crown does not dispute the right to take those procedural steps.

“But because of procedural steps along the way… it is the kind of case where even though it has been a long time, it is the kind of case where no stay would be granted.”

Mitchell argued heavily that the matters addressed and the issues raised by the plaintiff in this hearing should be dealt with in an abuse of process application.

“Under the common law, to adequately give the plaintiff their redress, there is a jurisdictional bar to you considering the issues under the constitution,” the prosecutor submitted to the chief justice.

He added: “Whilst there may be exceptional circumstances in a constitution that doesn’t have a proviso, where there is a proviso we submit you are jurisdictionally barred from considering it.”

The SIPT lawyer suggested that the motion is vexatious and frivolous and the constitutional motion is not the right way to resolve this case.

A ruling on this application is expected in the coming weeks, although no set date for the delivery of the judgement has been given.

The chief justice’s ruling on the constitutional motion and on the abuse of process application will determine the future of a retrial.

CONTINUED FROM 

we’ve opened our shores in the Turks and Caicos on July 22 [2020] and it was slow to start with, but it gave us time to kind of understand how the CDC guidelines are working, working with our Ministry of Health.

“Our Governor Nigel Dakin took a very proactive role to open up the Islands in the most sensible way but this is all new to all of us.

“Since then, we’ve done about 10,000 guests but in the last three weeks particularly. The phones have been ringing off the hook and in March and April it will be tough to find a room.”

Advani said the trend is projected to carry on throughout the summer given the travel restrictions for many European countries.

5

“Our market is mainly the United States…we’ve opened our door from day one and we’ve said Americans are welcome because there were so many places that were saying you can’t go here and you can’t go there, but we decided look you are our key market.”

He underscored that strict protocols are in place to ensure the safety of residents and guests.

“We’re going to do this safely and we’ve got great advice from CDC, and our own Ministry of Health, so we’re going to do this with you.

“That’s been great and that’s been received really well.

We’ve been tried and tested, so many guests are coming back feeling very comfortable that the protocols are really working.”

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Residents wait in long lines at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex to collect their cheques (Olivia Rose/TC Weekly News)

Residents turn out in droves to receive $1,000 cheques

BY OLIVIA ROSE Citizens across the TCI have turned out in huge numbers to collect their Government-issued $1,000 stimulus cheques.

The Government began the release of its Citizen Relief Stimulus cheques to approved applicants aged over 60 on Friday, March 26, and continued on Monday March 29.

More than 11,000 TCI citizens are set to benefit from the $11 million relief programme approved by the newly-elected Progressive National Party (PNP) Government.

At 10am sharp, huge lines formed at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex and the Treasury offices in Providenciales and Grand Turk where cheques were dispersed.

Although the wearing of masks was strictly enforced, the sixfoot social distancing Covid-19 preventative protocol was not adhered to by the excited crowds.

Police officers who were stationed at the Treasury and the sports complex struggled to enforce the social distancing rules due to sheer numbers.

Many residents, still reeling from the economic hardship induced by the Covid-19 pandemic, were seen smiling and waving their cheques after waiting for hours in the scorching sun.

Mother-of-two Sonya Lightbourne told the Weekly News the money will go to help with the purchase of supplies as she prepares to send her children back to school after the Easter break.

“For me it came in very handy,” she said, “and even the timing is perfect because school reopens within the next two weeks and I have to get my children prepared for school.”

Another resident said the money

will certainly assist her household during these difficult times.

“During the pandemic my husband lost his job, so this is giving us a jumpstart and helping us get back on track as well as catching up on some outstanding bills. I’m very thankful for this $1,000.”

Premier and Minister for Finance, Investment and Trade, Hon. Charles Washington Misick, in a statement on Saturday, March 27, assured all approved applicants that they will receive their cheques.

He said: “I would like to assure the public that applicants will receive an email with an update on the status of their application.

“Additionally, a list of all approved and cleared to print applicants will be published on the Turks and Caicos Islands Government portal (www.gov.tc) along with information of the date, time and venue for collection of Citizen Relief Stimulus cheques.”

Misick said each applicant will be given 30 days to collect their cheques from the allocated venues.

He urged residents not to crowd the collection sites and reminded them of the importance of following the established Covid-19 spread prevention measures.

“We must allow the elderly population to collect their stimulus cheques safely and swiftly,” he said, “and we must be mindful and adhere to the Covid-19 protocols and health measures while doing so.

“The Ministry of Finance is working to swiftly process and issue all Citizen Relief Stimulus applications and cheques and we need the full cooperation and compliance of the general public.”

The grant was made available to Turks and Caicos Islanders and British overseas territory citizens over the age of 18.

To access the Citizen Relief Stimulus cheque, approved

applicants must provide a valid TCI Government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s licence, NIB card, NHIP card, BOTC passport or a TCI status card.

They must also bring a copy of their application number and appear in person at the cheque issuance location.

Cheques will not be assigned to a bank or issued to individuals other than the approved applicant.

Senior citizens, who were the first to receive their grants, sit along the corridors of the Treasury building in Providenciales (Olivia Rose/TC Weekly News)

Under the tree By Benneth Williams

7

8

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Covid-19 survivor: ‘I thought I was not going to make it’

BY DELANA ISLES “I’m a strong person mentally and physically. It’s not normal for me to have the flu. I don’t get sick, a little migraine headache now and again.

“But I got sick,” Ansa Wilson said, while sharing her near-death experience with Covid-19.

Wilson told her story during a special event on Tuesday, March 23, to reflect on the one year anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic and the first confirmed case in the TCI. “I started feeling extremely weak and dizzy, then I got a fever,” she told those gathered at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales.

“In the day my temperature would be high, at night my temperature would be normal. I’m sweating and the strangest of all for me was my second Covid test came back negative.”

At this point this had been going on for a number of days. The fever came, the fever left. When it left the last time, Wilson said she went to work. But shortly thereafter she got sick again.

“But this time I lost my [sense of] smell and taste, and there was

extreme weakness in my entire body.”

She said the weakness was so severe that she could no longer care for herself. Her sister then came to her aid. When that happened, they both decided it was time to visit the hospital.

“We came to the hospital and of course there were others like me waiting to be seen. There were nurses and doctors, everyone trying to assist the best that they can.

“I waited and a nurse came and checked my vitals. I couldn’t breathe.”

She recalled how terrified she was at this stage: “There is nothing more scarier than when you can’t breathe.

“When you can’t breathe it’s like you lose everything in your body, you can hardly walk, you can barely talk. It’s so much that’s going through your mind at that time.”

Wilson vividly recalled the medical care she received from Dexter Tobias, an emergency department nurse.

“He was one of the first persons who came to me and he checked and he realised I couldn’t breathe… he hooked me up to the oxygen machine.

“I had to wait because there were

persons with worse symptoms than me.

“I waited for some time and I believe it was Dr [Denise] Braithwaite and Dr [Dawn] Perry came and tried to lift me up to get me into the building and while going on... I said to myself “this is impossible, these two ladies cannot carry you, so you have to be strong, you have to walk in there”.

When she got into the emergency department she was checked in and admitted.

“It was an awful experience.

“In addition to my fever, to me not being able to breathe, I really can’t help myself, I was also worried about my family who were caring for me during the time I was experiencing these symptoms.”

While strapped into machines and fighting for her life, she also worried about her co-workers.

“I started to worry about my coworker; that day I had a co-worker that died. He also had Covid.”

She said during her stay at the hospital she was told that she too was Covid positive.

“After getting that result back, I found out that I had a bad infection on my chest - pneumonia.”

Wilson said at that point she had “totally given up”. “The way I felt

Ansa Wilson shares her Covid-19 experience (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)

I had never, ever felt before.”

She added that being a heavy-set person she had concerns whether the hospital could cater to her, and was intensely afraid because of the way she was feeling.

Wilson recalls having to take several medications every hour on the hour, constant blood tests, and several other examinations during her stay at the facility.

“On the second morning, the doctor said to me that the medication is working fine, and it’s a miracle but you are going to be okay.”

She said when she woke up that morning and realised that she was still alive, “I found it funny, I thought I was not going to make it, with all of those symptoms…”

She added that throughout the ordeal she stayed positive by thinking about her mother and aunt in North Caicos, and being able to

reassure them that she was going to be okay.

But there is a flipside to the Covid-19 experience.

“Sometimes when people hear that you tested positive for Covid, they would say where she been, or maybe she wasn’t wearing her mask.

“But I didn’t go anywhere, I barely left home. I went to one particular place and I can’t even say I caught it at that place.”

Wilson has a message to everyone about this harmful form of stigmatisation: “Sometimes persons do get infected unknowingly, even when you are taking the most precautions that you can.”

Wilson is now vaccinated and on April 4, she is set to receive her second dose.

“Covid is real, Covid is so, so real,” she said.

Murder accused pair charged with another murder Two men, who had each been charged with murder last year over two separate incidents, have now been jointly accused of another brutal killing.

Shaquant Walkin, 24, and Jamasly Destine, 24, were on Wednesday, March 24, charged with the 2020 murder of 20-yearold Garfield Dennie Junior.

They have also been charged with wounding, discharging firearm, discharging ammunition and carrying firearm in connection with the same incident.

The men are both in Her Majesty’s Prison Grand Turk awaiting trial.

Superintendent Lisa Mitcheson, head of crime and public protection, praised the officers involved at every stage of the investigation.

“They work tirelessly on all outstanding serious crimes and are fully committed in their efforts to bring people to justice,” she said.

“We thank those members of our communities who have been supportive and seek further support to gain sufficient evidence to solve other unsolved crimes.”

Dennie died on June 5, 2020, after sustaining gunshot wounds in a shooting on Ralph Close in Blue

Hills, Providenciales, at about 8pm on May 23.

He was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and treated immediately by the trauma team for a gunshot wound to the upper body.

TCI Hospital press officer Nikira John said: “He was admitted to the High Dependency Unit for continuous care and monitoring and was transferred overseas for tertiary level care.”

Dennie was airlifted to Jamaica for further medical treatment but later succumbed to his injuries.

Another young man, aged 19, sustained a gunshot wound to the forearm during the shooting. He was also taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and received immediate care.

“The patient was in stable condition and did not require hospital admission thereafter,” John said.

The horrific incident brought the murder count to 11 in the Turks and Caicos Islands at the time, and the seventh murder since the territory was placed under lockdown.

OTHER MURDERS Shaquant Walkin was also charged

Garfield Dennie, 20, died on June 5, weeks after being shot in Blue Hills on November 17, 2020, for the murder of Florida-born Mathew Florez, along with Myrohn Pereira, who was 22 at the time of his arrest.

Florez, 39, was shot dead in a drive-by near Thomas Stubbs roundabout on Leeward Highway, Providenciales, on August 5, 2020.

Police were informed of the shooting at about 11.19pm. They were told that masked men driving a dark vehicle approached two men

changing a tyre and opened fire.

Nikira John from TCI Hospital told the Weekly News that the man “never made it to the hospital”.

Walkin and Pereira were charged with murder, discharging firearm, discharging ammunition, possession of firearm with intent to endanger life and carrying firearm.

At the time Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting said: “While we have charged two men, we still need the public for any relevant information they may have.

“If you can help our investigation, we are asking that you please come forward.”

Jamasly Destine and Wilkenson Beaute, who was 26 at the time of his arrest, were charged on November 5 with the shooting murder of an unknown man at Providenciales’ dumpsite.

They were also charged with attempted murder, discharging a firearm, carrying a firearm, carrying ammunition and wounding.

Just before 11.15am on April 18 officers and ambulance workers were called to the Providenciales dumpsite after reports were made of shots being fired in the vicinity.

“Upon arrival, they met the lifeless body of a male on the

ground with a gunshot wound,” a statement from the police press office said.

“The man, age unknown, was pronounced dead at the scene.”

Investigating officers soon after discovered a second man on Mary Jane Lane in Blue Hills who also had gunshot wounds.

Police believe that the second man was also shot at the dump site but ran from the scene in search for help.

He was taken in an ambulance to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where he was treated for his wounds.

The murdered man has not yet been identified, and has been named by police simply as ‘John Doe’.

The territory recorded a record total of 23 murders by the end of 2020. The previous highest homicide count in a year was 13 in 2019.

Superintendent Mitcheson said: “It is important that we continue to work hard to seek justice for all of our victims and their families.”

Anyone who has information on the shooting can call 911 or Crime Stoppers confidentially at 1-8008477.

March 30 - April 5, 2021

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

9

Man charged with firearm offences Twenty-five-year-old Ellington Been is in prison after being charged with discharging a firearm, wounding and possession of imitation firearm with intent to cause fear.

Officers of the Serious Crime Unit in the Royal Turks and Caicos

Islands Police Force laid the charges on Monday, March 22.

He appeared in court the next day and was sent to Her Majesty’s Prison Grand Turk to remain in custody until his sufficiency hearing on May 7.

The charges are in relation

to a shooting reported to police on Saturday, February 20, in Providenciales, the police press office said on Wednesday, March 24.

A 35-year-old-man was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre at about 9.23pm after being shot. The

victim was subsequently released from the hospital.

Head of Crime and Public Protection, Superintendent Lisa Mitcheson, said: “This was a shooting during which the victim was lucky not to have suffered more serious injuries.

“We want to continue to appeal to the public to give us information.

We need to locate these firearms and take them off the street.”

Anyone with information on this incident can call 911 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477.

CABINET MEETING SUMMARY Mandatory Covid-19 tests for unvaccinated public sector staff and the change of testing rules for vaccinated visitors were discussed at the fifth meeting of the new Cabinet this year.

Governor Nigel Dakin chaired the meeting on Wednesday, March 24, at the Office of the Premier in Grand Turk. All members were present.

AT THIS MEETING CABINET:

- Was given an update by the Ministry of Health on: a) The measures being taken to address and mitigate against the threat of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) to the territory, including the need to test for multiple variants. b) The instillation of oxygen generators at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and the Cockburn Town Medical Centre.

- Approved amendments to the Public and Environmental Health (Testing of COVID-19) Regulations to include: a) The use of lateral flow devices for local surveillance of high risk TCIG departments. b) Robust reporting requirements. c) Confirmatory testing and testing requirements.

- Approved the rollout of an expanded

A phased reopening of schools, an in-house casino at the Ritz-Carlton and settlement terms on a claim against TCIG were discussed at the fourth meeting of the new Cabinet this year.

Governor Nigel Dakin chaired the meeting on Wednesday, March 15, at the Office of the Premier in Providenciales. All members were present.

AT THIS MEETING CABINET:

- Were updated on the state of the nation and discussed measures to further address and mitigate against any escalation of the coronavirus (Covid-19) and discussed increased testing of frontline staff and the population at large.

- Approved the extension of existing control measures (curfew, business hours, capacity or persons allowed in named establishments/scenarios and ban on public and private gatherings, sporting or social activity of any description on all islands save for training for Carifta and by the TCIFA) on the basis of expert modelling advice.

- Approved the following new measures with effect from Wednesday, March 17,

-

-

-

-

vaccination campaign, including among other measures, the use of more marketing mediums, drive through vaccine sites, and community outreach/ events.

Approved a policy for a programme of mandatory Covid-19 testing of unvaccinated staff in the public sector for key high-risk departments.

Approved an amendment to Public and Environmental Health (Arriving Passengers) Regulations to allow for upon arrival PCR testing at the airport for TCI residents who have been fully vaccinated (two doses) in the TCI; doing away with the requirement for such persons to obtain a negative PCR test within five days prior to their arrival in the Islands with effect from May 1.

Approved an amendment to the Public and Environmental Health (Pandemic) Regulations to reduce the prescribed quarantine period from 14 days to seven days for fully vaccinated persons (two doses) who come into contact with someone with the Covid-19 disease.

Approved an MOU with the Turks and Caicos Islands Medical Association (TCIMA) to assist the Ministry of Health with Covid-19 local surveillance through a programme of community testing

until Friday, April 2, unless otherwise stated: a) Suspension of business operations for eight or 15 days for repeat noncompliance with measures b) Extending the use of logbooks until June 30. c) Extending the ban on cruise ship arrivals until August 31.

- Approved amendments to facilitate the operation of pleasure craft. These include: a) Pleasure craft are permitted to operate at a maximum occupancy of 30 percent. b) Vessels with a capacity of 10 people or less be limited to a maximum of six people from outside the same household c) A ban on all boat parties d) All pleasure craft are required to register with DECR, who will also be responsible for determining the capacity of each vessel.

- Approved the appointment of attorney Elizabeth Charlton, senior Crown counsel, AG Chambers as a member of the Allied Health and Pharmacy Council until July 21, replacing attorney Chassidy Swann.

- Approved the discontinuation of the Social Stimulus Programme within the

using lateral flow devices.

- Approved the overturning of a decision by the collector of stamp duty by granting a waiver to a named individual on appeal in the context of a closed stimulus programme.

- Approved an update to the provisional warrant approved by the House of Assembly in December 2020 for a withdrawal from the Consolidated Fund in respect of the recurrent expenditure of the Islands for part of the fiscal year 2021-2022. The revised provisional warrant will be resubmitted to the House of Assembly.

- Approved the Invest Turks and Caicos Agency (Amendment) Bill 2021 to improve good governance within the Invest Turks and Caicos Agency Ordinance regarding legal, financial, regulatory, and compliance matters. The bill will be submitted to the House of Assembly for debate.

- Approved an amendment to the supporting documents to be submitted by applicants over the age of 75 to enable them to benefit from income assistance/relief under the Citizen Relief – Covid-19 Stimulus Programme.

- Approved the appointment of Joe Conolly as chairman and Carla P Blake-

Ministry of Education, with the balance of funds to be reallocated to the purchasing of food vouchers with distribution by the TCI conglomerate of NGOs to assist vulnerable people.

- Noted progress with the provision of online education for all students.

Approved a phased approach to the reopening of schools commencing on March 22 and May 3 depending on size of school and state of readiness. All schools with less than 200 students are allowed to return to face to face learning with schools with 200 or more students to use a blended approach.

- Approved the use of the Gaming Control Commission Board as a commission appointed under the Casinos Ordinance and following the requirements of the Gaming Control Ordinance to consider an application from Desarollos Hotelco Ritz Carlton for the establishment of an in-house casino.

- Approved Supplementary Appropriation No. 3 relating to FY 2020-2021 reducing funding from the Public Sector Investment Programme, reducing funding for specific capital projects, the transfer of

-

-

- -

-

Thomas as Deputy chair of the TCI National Health Insurance Board for a period of two years with effect from April 1.

Were updated on ongoing work by Labour and Employment Services and the Department of Immigration, in particular issuance of work permits, prosecution and departure from the TCI of persons found residing in the country illegally.

Were updated on progress with addressing processes, structures and staffing of the Gaming Control Commission and approved the removal of the members of the board.

Approved the waiver of stamp duty for the purchase of Project House by the Financial Services Commission.

Confirmed the round robin approval of the Supplementary Appropriation (2020/2021) Bill 2021 and noted its recent approval by the House of Assembly.

Were updated on ongoing works by the Ministries of Education, Infrastructure, Tourism and Health. Members were also updated on end of year (financial) work by the civil service and staffing across various departments.

funds from the Contingency Fund, and an adjustment to the recurrent expenditure.

Some of the funds recovered will be used to cover the increase in retirement benefits and the increase in allocation to the economic stimulus programme.

- Members discussed the implications of Supplementary Appropriation No. 3 and agreed next steps on a number of existing and new capital projects along with their associated human/funding requirements.

- In line with the process under the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance, approved the Procurement Board’s recommendations on the award of the following contracts: a) TR 20/31, consultancy services for valuation of the TCI Government (TCIG) fixed assets. b) PN 005577, furniture for Road Safety – Providenciales (TR 20/49). c) TCICAA 01/2020, automobiles for the Turks and Caicos Civil Aviation Authority – Grand Turk (TR 20/27).

- Approved the terms of settlement, as proposed by the attorney general, to an ongoing claim against the TCI Government.

10 NEWS OPINIONS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Everyone is a very important person Everyone is a very important person (VIP).

Unfortunately, society has created an elite status known as VIP. This status reflects individuals with money, power and titles.

These individuals include primarily politicians, celebrities, professional athletes, chief executive officers and others.

I believe most people want to be rich or have more money than what they have currently have and perhaps desire to gain ‘VIP’ status but the truth is not everyone will be rich.

There will always be poor people among us, but one thing I know is that everyone is a very important person no matter who they are or what they have.

‘Don’t you know who I am?’ is a common phrase when a VIP is looking for attention or being rejected by people. Everyone should use this line.

You are just as important as anyone else.

The fact that you were created by God, that alone makes you important because in the eyes of God we are all equal, but yet we have allowed wealth, power and titles to

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

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

separate us from others.

The common person may be considered powerless; however, you are very powerful.

It is the votes of the common man that allow politicians to win their seats making them VIPs. The common persons are the ones spending a significant portion of their money supporting entrepreneurs, making them rich.

The common person is a very important person. You are more important than you realise. Stop feeling inferior or insignificant

because you do not have money or big job titles.

The garbage collector and the sweepers are very important persons keeping our surroundings clean.

The teacher is a very important person.

All of us had a teacher and many of us are very important today because that of what we learned from our teachers.

That plumber is a very important person.

If anything goes wrong with our toilets, it is the plumber who we call to fix it.

The chef is a very important person.

Many people cannot cook and some people don’t have the time to cook, but the chef is cooking for us allowing us to have our three meals a day. Therefore, that chef is a very important person.

That college graduate may come on a job and know very little and it may be the experienced non-college graduate that has to show that college graduate what to do.

Not because you graduated from college or university especially an Ivy League school means you are very important.

I can go and on about this but I believe you get the picture of what I am trying to say.

I hope by now you have reached the same conclusion I have reached and that is, everyone is a VIP. As you ponder on this article, learn to appreciate others and see them as equal as you.

The status you are currently in may not be permanent for I have seen the rich become poor and the poor become rich. Be careful, for everybody is a VIP.

Perception, actions and explanations matter PART TWO If the fence is ever to meet its objective of managing migration, both the Dominican and Haitian governments will need to deliver rapidly not just the accompanying measures that Dominican president Luis Abinader, and the president of Haiti, Jovenel Moïse, agreed at the start of the year, but in the longer term with international support somehow deliver a Haitian economic and social revolution.

What the two presidents agreed in January is a start. Meeting in the border zone they agreed to address irregular migratory flows, improve cross border trade, establish maritime boundaries, and to jointly

BY DAVID JESSOP

David Jessop is a consultant to the Caribbean Council. He has worked on Caribbean issues for over 40 years. David is the editor of Caribbean Insight and Cuba Briefing publications. He can be contacted at david.jessop@caribbeancouncil.org

develop public health and environmental programmes.

In a joint statement issued at the time, the two presidents committed to delivering, in part with external financing, programmes addressing some of the most challenging issues that for decades have created friction

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.

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

between the two countries.

Of these, early progress has been made on planning an energy interconnection that will enable Haiti to take surplus Dominican energy generated from renewable sources, the first of several hospitals is under construction in Haiti, cross border investments are again being discussed, and a process has begun that will identify all Haitian citizens in the Dominican Republic to include them in the Haitian civil register.

What so far is missing is any real attempt to explain this and the longer-term overall objective to the many critics of the Dominican Republic in the anglophone Caribbean and elsewhere who remain concerned about the country’s migration policy.

Instead, in the case of Caricom, instead of conveying how the ‘fence’ and planned joint development programmes with Haiti

are linked and reflect president Abinader’s recent statement “we want a mutually beneficial relationship with Haiti”, the stress continues to be on improving trade.

Speaking recently at a media lunch, foreign minister Alvarez reportedly emphasised that Caricom was of ‘utmost importance’ to the country’s trade balance as it sold more in 2018 to its 5.5 million anglophone neighbours than to the 45 million living in Central America.

“We are going to establish deep links with Caricom,” he was quoted as saying.

While there is much that Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Caricom can accomplish though trade and much more to gain by working together, this will first require a willingness to address the negative perceptions that exist.

A good starting place to allay such doubts would be for the Dominican government to explain in detail, not just through occasional ministerial, diplomatic, and private sector exchanges, how the initiatives president Abinader is developing with Haiti will be developmental, joined up, and sustainable.

Without this, the public and private narrative in Caricom about the Dominican Republic will not be about trade and opportunity, but likely continue to focus on Haitian migration, perceived racism in the treatment of migrants, and now the construction of a ‘wall’.

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

Benefits of a multiculturalism policy in the TCI In America, it is the ultimate tool for success. It bridges the employment gap, providing skilled and blue collar workers and generates an abundance of competencies and successes in the sports sector, national security and the armed forces, entrepreneurship, scientific and social research and development, amongst other areas of national development.

An initiative known in America as the ‘H-1B visa program’ and a phenomenon that social scientists described simply as diversity – allowing people with highly specialised knowledge, with a bachelor’s degree or higher to become citizens.

Having seen the successes of this diversity programme in America, other countries are adapting.

Britain has engineered a programme that recruits Caribbean nationals for its armed forces and education system.

However, we must recognise that Britain has long practiced diversity, employing people

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

from the West Indies and other parts of the globe in its nursing programme long before planes were able to across in the Atlantic Ocean.

Lately, France has joined the party, accepting immigrants in its military and giving citizenship to African nationals – a programme that is clearly the bedrock for France’s 2018 World Cup soccer championship win in Russia.

The outcome from diversity in any nation has certainly been a success, so the TCI is encouraged to embrace such an initiative.

In so doing, this necklace of islands is poised to gained

enormous political and socioeconomic benefits, as we’ve seen in its attempt to diversity law enforcement, the education system and the medical fraternity among other professions.

Through the normative approach regarding diversity and integration, we must attempt to redefine nationhood and citizenship, which could lead to a justifiable interpretation of integration and democratic spaces in the TCI. To acquire these desires, as a nation we must elaborate on the normative value of the concept of multiculturalism.

These policies must, however,

express the hope of a TCI that would simultaneously respect equality, difference, individual freedom and community cohesion.

In short, this idea is to enable the TCI to develop both as a community of citizens as seen from the liberal perspective, while simultaneously mature as a community of communities, signalled by pluralists.

To bolster this argument, the attractiveness of diversity has enticed Canada to embrace this initiative, which has created a melting pot especially in Toronto.

The second largest country by geography is offering citizenship to non-Canadians who possess the right skills, experiences and academic qualifications for nation building.

Multiculturalism is intended to encourage a skilled worker programme, strengthen its education system, sports and competitiveness in trade.

To realise this feat, the authorities must craft a diversity policy and

address the effectiveness of the programme.

Too, this policy must be engineered to articulate multiculturalism’s real economic benefits, which are positively correlated to increases in skilled labour, job creation and repopulation.

Eventually, these actualities will lead to business formation, innovation and enhanced productivity.

Moreover, these advantages would engender a hike in new clients, improvements in regional development and create new international trade links.

We must ensure that the integration policies promote multiculturalism, enhance the economic situation for the immigrant population and not the political or cultural marginalisation of these citizens.

The idea of diversity is to fill the void and in respect to the Americans, their multicultural programme is simply pure genius.

‘The UK is not bigoted’ like water is not wet PART ONE “The UK is not bigoted.” So says Ian Murray, the former director of the UK Society of Editors, after his step down in the wake of his comments to the Megan Markle and Prince Harry interview with Oprah Winfrey detailing racism.

Since that interview people are running around as if their hair is on fire, agog with the notion that British royalty might possibly be ‘racist.’

This is comical. Is water wet? A fitting response to the notion that British royalty and society might be racist.

This is a nation that thrived, no survived, on slavery as their lifeline and lifeblood. This was followed by colonialism, which is nothing more than a legalised form of slavery, the latter which thrives to this day.

For them to claim their Crown

BY BEN ROBERTS

Ben is a Turks and Caicos Islander living in Maryland, USA, and published author of ‘Jackals of Samarra’. He is also a founding member of the NGO Turks and Caicos Forum.

Ben can be contacted at grandt730@aol.com.

and society is not racist is the equivalent of that overseer of ‘eternal damnation by fire’ guy saying he has no affinity for matches. Yes. Laughable.

Now more so because Prince William has come out to say the royal family is not racist and indicated his displeasure at his younger brother Harry for saying what he said in the interview.

Then his wife, Kate Middleton, is said to express horror at Markle for disclosing details of her wedding and clarifying that it was Middleton who made her cry, not

the other way around.

Let’s take the first: Prince William is not too pleased with his brother for disclosing what he revealed about his ordeal with their royal family and the British monarchical system of government.

His brother’s wife was close to dissociating from reality and taking her own life, during which the brother then begged the system to assist in this fragile moment of his wife’s mental well-being only to be shockingly told there was nothing to be done, and he is upset with his brother for divulging this?

What type of brother is he?

Then his wife Kate Middleton is quite comfortable hiding behind the curtain and letting the story expand out in concentric rings that Markle (the angry Black woman as is almost always sold) made her cry when she knew full well it was her who made Markle cry.

Then she is thunderstruck when Markle almost reluctantly, as seen in the interview, clears up this gross mischaracterisation, while at the same time applauding Middleton for her kindness in running out of the castle and giving her a crash course in how to curtsy when she made her initial acquaintance with Queen Elizabeth? How appalling and disingenuous!

This proves that if the British monarchy wants to update itself for the 21st century, it will not be with the succession of Prince William and Kate Middleton, but rather Prince Harry and Megan Markle.

That is if their default to racism

does not allow them to advance from their medieval fog.

In the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries Great Britain, along with the major world powers of Spain, Portugal, France, and the Dutch, uplifted its impoverished and destitute society by using a most violent and dehumanising action against another race, worse than anything the world had ever seen before or since. This was African slavery.

With the abolition of this stain on the human race, the British governing system, royalty included, went about reimbursing the slaveholders for their projected lost profits from ending this practice. The victim, the injured, broken, and destitute slave was awarded nothing.

That is the case to this very day.

What was that, and what is that, if not blackguard unapologetic and raw racism?

To be continued in next week’s newspaper.

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Fighting for independence is weak PART TWO Dear Editor, Here are some more things we need to look into to compete at every level of tourism: ECO AND AGRICULTURE Ecotourism is gaining more and more popularity for tourists worldwide.

When talking about a tourist destination not many people connect it to the possibility of doing ecotourism or agritourism as these concepts have only recently been introduced.

Nevertheless, there are a couple of very interesting offers in this sector which should be taken into consideration.

A combination of conservation, preservation and educational tours are offered through walks and visits of nature sites combining the culture, tradition and history of the various sites visited.

One can do walks through the nature and learn about the TCI flora and fauna and its geological characteristics in the same time or engage in exploring salt harvesting.

Visit vineyards in the Islands or see how honey is made. The educated guides on the different ecotours are able to explain the various flora and

fauna found on the islands and their importance to the society over the years.

With agritourism, one has the possibility to witness the traditional way of farming practiced in the many tucked away farms and savour the rural cuisine prepared by the local farmers.

We have masses and masses of land for mass farming. We have a lot of wetlands for ecotourism as well.

What are we doing with them?

The Government needs to make this land accessible to locals.

INSTA-TOURISM We are living in the age of the internet. Let’s make use of it.

Insta-tourism involves the use of the social media platform Instagram, which enables organisations and individuals to promote or research travel opportunities.

Insta-tourism is commonly associated with social media influencers. It’s the thing of the new age.

Instagram bloggers, models and content creators travel all over the world to capture artistic street art, to be captured in popular places or just to pose in front of an iconic building for social media purposes.

Development and artistic

beautification of our country and local communities will play a major role in this particular industry. All hands need to be on deck.

NIGHTLIFE Providenciales, known locally as Provo, needs a better luxury night life. High-end clubs, bars and lounges, gay and straight alike are highly needed.

It’s the island known as the city of the TCI, yet so many amenities are missing.

Luxury shopping is needed in Grace Bay. Shops should extend their closing time.

We need to make investments in areas of the arts. An art museum is needed and showrooms. It’s great for the night. It is very romantic and intriguing.

Wining and dining late eaters - restaurants should prolong their opening times to at least 1am.

If we are going to market the TCI to the world as a luxury destination, we can’t be so limited on amenities.

The world is changing fast. These are the basic things we need in place in order for our country to remain at the top.

Jeritt Williams, Providenciales

A tourist’s view of a paradise destination Dear Editor, I write this letter to you as I sit on my balcony looking over the cobalt sea wishing I had another week in Providenciales. I have been here a week already, had my fair share of sun and fun, but it is never enough, right?

I read your March 23-29, 2021, edition from cover to cover and want to set forth a number of comments on island life and mood of the local people.

First, I want to compliment all my hosts and hostesses at the resort, restaurants I frequented and transportation professionals (taxi and ferry) for their extraordinary warmth and service. I was always made to feel a welcomed guest.

I have been to many other Caribbean islands, Turks and Caicos ranks at the top of all.

It is clear to me that with the events of the past few years, hurricane and Covid-19, the people here have struggled, but their good-natured ways have not let these challenges taint their positive outlook. Bravo!

In this line of thought, I want to add some reflection. When I was looking for spring break destinations, there was quite a bit to choose from.

My choice to come to TCI

was based at that time solely on the fact I had not yet visited your islands. Now that my visit is nearly finished, allow me to make a few suggestions.

There is little mention of TCI’s history in the marketing of the Islands. I had to revert to Wikipedia to learn about how TCI became what it is today; the past industries (salt, sisal, etc.), quest for independence and more.

This may not be of interest to some tourists, but I have to imagine that many want to know a bit more than whether or not the resort under consideration is all inclusive or not.

Additional information about how the Islands have ‘grown up’ might add colour and a greater feel of individuality.

Turks and Caicos has great appeal beyond bright sun and clean beaches, but it doesn’t come through enough.

Additionally, it was difficult to learn in advance about all the different restaurants available in Grace Bay and other places.

It wasn’t until I got here that I learned about The Terrace and Coco Bistro and others. Had I known, I might have been able to visit more of them.

Perhaps the Ministry of Tourism

can support these establishments with SEO for their websites? Or compile an online listing?

Second, your Weekly News is full of rich information on daily life here. I found many examples of challenges to which I could relate: the seizure of an overcrowded sloop, issuance of food vouchers to vulnerable residents and the welcome news that students will return to school after Easter.

These are stories with great humanity, when I read these I found a commonality with Turks and Caicos.

Unfortunately, it was not easy for me to find your newspaper, it isn’t available in resorts. It was purely coincidental that I came across your news.

But if there were a way to distribute the Weekly News to resorts, I would think it might allow for further bonding between visitors and locals. This type of understanding often leads to deeper connections and repeat visits!

That’s all I have, I hope you find my thoughts constructive. Though I leave tomorrow, I look forward to returning again in the near future.

Bromme Cole, New York

The Right Reverend Laish Boyd urges the public to give encouragement and hope to others

‘Easter is about new life and new energy’

BY THE RIGHT REVEREND LAISH BOYD Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the TCI

“For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:17) We thank God for bringing us to a place where have never been before in our whole lives: to today, to this week, to this month, to Easter 2021. What a milestone!

At Easter we celebrate the fact that Jesus rose from the dead. It is a season which signifies not only resurrection, but new life, hope, and new beginnings.

Things are different now than they were last Easter: Last year this time we were in the midst of the first, big Covid-19 lockdown. This year we are not in lockdown.

Last year Covid-19 was a relatively new phenomenon and there was great fear and uncertainty about that unknown.

This year we are in a more comfortable space where we know a lot more about the virus, and we have protocols and procedures in place to manage it safely.

Last year we had no vaccine available. This year we have the new hope of several available vaccines. Millions of persons have been vaccinated already.

I am sure that you can think of ways that your life is better or renewed since last Easter, and ways in which you have new hope.

I am also certain that you can think of ways in which you are less fortunate or worse off than you were last year.

But, the thing is that we must all try to press on, whatever our circumstances. Easter is about new life and new energy, so let’s try to find that in each new day. Also, let us seek to give encouragement and hope to others in the pain and despair of their lives.

This is the real meaning of Easter: not just being renewed or resurrected ourselves, but sharing that and making it possible for others – in whatever small way that we can.

It is so easy to see, to feel, and to point out the negatives, but if we could only see more positives (find the silver lining in the dark cloud) we could actually shape our world and our lives for the better. Remember that our attitude determines our altitude.

Every Easter we are reminded about what God did for us: God so loved the world that he gave his only son (John 3:16).

This Easter let us seek to do something for someone else, to brighten their day, to ease their burden, to make them smile, to encourage, to give hope – especially in these Covid-19 times.

Let us serve the risen saviour who is in the world today.

Opportunities for service are right nearby, within arm’s length of each of us.

The Anglican Diocese joins me in wishing you a happy Easter! Yours in Christ.

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 13

THE SALT CAY NOTE

Governor Nigel Dakin and Amanda Dakin, with captain Jagan of Salt Cay Whale Adventures

Governor Dakin arrives in Salt Cay accompanied by District Commissioner Almaida Wilson

Governor Nigel Dakin addresses the Salt Cay community

The governor and his entourage prepare for their whale adventure

WhatsApp, whales and welcomes A

The governor’s flying visit to the charmed isle

visit was overdue and yet, when it was eventually announced via the Salt Cay WhatsApp community group chat, the residents of Salt Cay were taken by surprise at just how soon His Excellency the Governor would land on their beloved isle.

In caps the message from the district commissioner read: ‘NOTICE: PLEASE BE INFORMED THAT HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR DAKIN WILL BE VISITING SALT CAY TOMORROW, FRIDAY 26TH MARCH. A MEETING WILL BE HELD AT THE MARY ROBINSON PRIMARY SCHOOL AT 9.30AM TO MEET WITH THE COMMUNITY. YOU ARE ALL WELCOME TO ATTEND. THANK YOU.’ So now we knew, the governor was going to grace us with his presence the next day, Friday, March 26 - also, incidentally, National Vaccination Day. No sooner had the gubernatorial visit been announced, than the Salt Cay ‘speculative communications’, otherwise known as gossip, went into overdrive.

Why had the visit been announced at such short notice? And, more curiously, didn’t the Governor’s Office know that Friday is one of Salt Cay’s

BY TITUS DE BOER

Titus de Boer was born in Hamburg and spent his formative years in the West Indies.

After a formal education in Germany and subsequent training as a journalist, he moved to the TCI in 1989. Titus’ Salt Cay stories and photographs can be found on www.saltcaynote.com

three ‘community ferry’ days and so the currently-regulated passenger number (12) of the local community would be on Grand Turk?

“They know exactly that Friday is a ferry day, I wonder what it is he will announce?”

one native Saltan confided in me.

In less than 24 hours we were to know. But first the conflicting ferry and gubernatorial schedules had to be synced - and synced they were, thanks to the island’s district commissioner who informed the public, via WhatsApp: ‘NOTICE UPDATE: AFTERNOON ALL. PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO THE GOVERNOR’S MEETING TOMORROW, FRIDAY, THE SALT CAY FERRY WILL DEPART SALT CAY AT 11AM INSTEAD OF 9AM. THANK YOU.’ Problem solved. His Excellency could now look forward to a full house of attentive, masked and distantly-seated residents.

There is always one! At the time of the governor’s arrival, a ‘welcoming committee’, some by choice and some because they were about to board a plane, assembled in the departure/ arrivals area of the Salt Cay airport.

All were masked; the large sign at the door, ‘No mask, no entry’, being a bit of a clue. Except for ‘the one’ - large, unmistakably North American, unmasked!

Then again, if you’re going to draw attention to yourself, you might as well do it when His Excellency is in town…

It soon becomes apparent to all that

the governor is not just in the company of his wife but indeed has arrived with an entourage of four other visitors, all in tourist attire.

Would they perhaps have anything to do with His Excellency’s announcement?

As it turned out they did. But more on that in a moment.

Once everyone had made their way to the Mary Robinson Primary School, Britain’s top man in the TCI spent most of the one-hour town hall meeting praising the TCI’s UK-enabled vaccination roll out, warning of the consequences of an incomplete vaccination programme, giving folks a brief crash course on all things pandemic and envisioning a maskfree, open-to-the-world Salt Cay. And then it came- The Announcement!

“I am afraid I have to conclude this now, as we have a boat waiting for us at the dock, because we are going to go and look at your beautiful whales.”

Good for you Gov’, I couldn’t help myself think. No doubt, like so many people around the archipelago, he simply wanted and needed a break for a few hours to get away from it all and decided - quite wisely - that the best place to do that is…Salt Cay. Good for you Gov’ and welcome back!

14 NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

‘Much work left to be done’ – tourism, environment minister

BY OLIVIA ROSE Hon. Josephine Connolly has said that while the last Government accomplished much in her ministry, there is still a lot more work to be done to take it to the next level.

The Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming and Disaster Management presented her ministerial statement in the House of Assembly on March 22.

Connolly said she has spent the past few weeks becoming familiar with her ministry after her success in the February 19 general election and being sworn-in on February 24.

She highlighted the ongoing work of various departments and gave a brief account of her stewardship to date following weeks of briefings and familiarisation meetings.

“There are a number of policy and legislative issues around the environment, maritime and heritage that I aim to bring to the forefront and ensure they are at the top of our legislative agenda,” the minister said.

“My aim is to keep this honourable House and the listening public updated on every progressive step we take and every challenge we face, so that we are open and transparent and that we can be held accountable for the goals we set for the betterment of our people.”

TOURIST BOARD Connolly said most of its work of the Tourist Board last year was centred around navigating the new Covid-19 normal, which included setting up and managing the TCI Assured portal.

“The portal continues to assess persons entering the country to avoid the importation of Covid-19,” she said.

She explained that the Tourist Board launched an aggressive

campaign aimed at encouraging visitors back to the TCI as the territory works to rebuild its pandemic bruised tourism-based economy.

“We expect that over the next few weeks the arrival rates from the United States will increase, although they will not meet the pre Covid-19 figures,” she said.

She added that the Tourist Board has also been working on resuscitating the “staple” island fish fry which was halted due to the Covid-19 restrictions on social gatherings.

“I am informed of discussions and decisions on a new site for the fish fry and in the coming weeks will be discussing this matter so that we make the best decision possible on the suitability of a new site and timelines to achieve our objectives for this.”

MARITIME For the Maritime Department, Connolly committed to drafting new laws to give the department more legislative teeth “These new laws will help to modernise the maritime sector and improve the safety and security issues surrounding our boats and ship register.”

She said that in order to make the fishing industry stronger more resources are needed.

DECR AND DDME The minister said there is a need for more technical skills in order for the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) to achieve its vision.

“Through the DECR, the management of our national parks must be strengthened…my aim is to launch the environmental strategy that is being finalised by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee.

“We also hope to widen the awareness of the environment and

Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming and Disaster Management (Josephine Connolly/Facebook)

place the right amount of support for the promotional aspects of this department.”

She said that during the next few weeks she will be meeting with representatives from the Fisheries Advisory Committee, the Fishing Corp and all other interest groups.

“These groups are important to our vision of inclusiveness,” Connolly said.

She stressed that the DECR holds a serious mandate regarding the

protection and safeguarding of the environment.

The minister hailed the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME)’s performance.

“This is one of the departments that performs well. The staff is quite motivated to achieve their goals.

“My aim would be to ensure that we address the shelter management issues and that we establish systems to improve

Contributors needed Do you have a subject of interest that you’d like to share with our readers?

Perhaps you’re a great cook and have created lots of delicious recipes that use local ingredients.

Maybe you have ideas on how to save money when shopping and know where to find all the latest bargains.

Or are you an entrepreneur who would like to share tips on setting up a new business?

We need regular contributors of 400

word articles on a variety of topics for our Lifestyle pages.

Get in touch with us at the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and pitch your idea for a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly column.

You will have your name in print along with your business contact details if requested.

It’s a great way to share your knowledge and promote your business or start-up.

Contact us now at tcweeklynews@ gmail.com

early warnings, stronger volunteer involvement, and communication systems that will ensure that we can communicate throughout a disaster and immediately following.”

NATIONAL TRUST AND GAMING Connolly said the National Trust is currently reviewing its laws and strategies and improving its marketing and public relations.

“National Trust is described to me as the ‘little engine that could’. After my briefing I was able to garner the excitement of the director and her staff to the potential of the trust.

“I am convinced with the proposed marriage of culture and heritage we will see a combining of resources but also a new way of safeguarding our history to benefit our people and new methods to safeguard our artefacts and historical sites.”

She said there are many challenges in the gaming sector as it is in the midst of transitioning to a commission.

“The gaming sector is set to be a transformed entity that will meet all international and regional expected standards.

“I am currently continuing my review of this programme. I am working toward a speedy placement of key personnel and reviewing several matters to ensure that the gaming sector is on the right footing.”

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 15

The Turks and Caicos Islands marked one year since Covid-19 was detected in the TCI (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)

TCI marks one year since first case of Covid-19

BY DELANA ISLES One year to the day since the first case of Covid-19 was discovered in the Turks and Caicos Islands, officials reflected on the year past and the way forward and out of the pandemic.

On Tuesday, March 23, TCI Hospital hosted two events to mark the occasion at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk.

In attendance at the Providenciales event were Governor Nigel Dakin, Deputy Governor Anya Williams, TCI Hospital CEO Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, and several hospital officials.

A Covid-19 survivor and a frontline worker also shared their first-hand experience with the deadly virus [see additional articles] before the small gathering of speakers, staff and media.

Meanwhile, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders delivered the keynote address in the Healing Garden at the hospital in Grand Turk.

Governor Dakin - who lost his father to the virus earlier this year - shared his positive and negative memories of the past year, along with his predictions for the coming months.

“The strongest positive will be about our people,” he said.

“Everyone in the Islands ended up on the frontline during Covid and the vast majority were magnificent throughout, and continue to be so.”

He said that while a very small number failed the integrity test, he is still “immensely proud of the people of TCI”.

TCI Hospital CEO Dr Denise BraithwaiteTennant (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)

Governor Nigel Dakin shared his positive and negative memories of the past year (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)

As for his negative memory, he said this is the loss of life to the virus, which he noted increased significantly since the start of 2021.

“Having lost my own father to Covid, my family isn’t left untouched by this year’s events and when all other memories have gone this is the one that will of course abide.

“There will be others… who know exactly how this feels, and will also know that none of us want others’ memory of this period to be attached to this type of direct personal grief.”

He commended the work of the many non-governmental organisations that quickly came to the aid of those in need, thanking his wife Amanda Dakin for her efforts, and the countless others who offered help.

The governor noted that the territory’s overall health system and the relationships between medical practitioners and officials

measures we have in place clearly are reducing contagion, but not eliminating it, and those catching the virus are becoming more likely to die.”

He advised that the hospital has on several occasions risked being overwhelmed.

“The Government could of course return us, on a regular cycle, to a lockdown and stop the Islands’ economy, or keep ramping up and down restrictions forever, but why should we now need to do that.”

He stressed that there is no action the Government can take now that offers the protection that an individual can now take themselves, by taking the vaccine.

Dakin warned that the Pfizer/ BioNTech vaccine may soon be in short supply in the United Kingdom, and the TCI cannot ask the UK for more if it cannot be sure it will be used before expiration.

“We cannot have vaccines being thrown away here when there are

are immeasurably stronger in March 2021 than they were in March 2020; and this is a welcome foundation on which to build.

HINGE MOMENT “I believe the end of this first year does start to mark a hinge moment, a moment when we have to start to look towards individual responsibility for our protection rather than Government-imposed restrictions to govern our collective behaviours around our personal health.

“The latter got us through the last year but the former will not only get us through 2021, but reignite our economy and return our personal liberties.”

He stressed that Covid-19 is not going anywhere, anytime soon, if at all; it is actually getting stronger and deadlier.

“I confidently predict more deaths, there is no reason to think any other way. The restrictive

those in the UK who want the vaccine but have yet to receive it.”

He further warned that at some point in the future the supply of vaccines will be halted and the territory will have to move on “with some, hopefully most of the population safe, and some of it at risk, and at risk through personal choice”.

But amid all of this, the territory has managed to secure itself a spot among the top safest destinations.

Governor Dakin: “The memory I want to hold is that together we all created the safest destination and home in the Caribbean for ourselves and our visitors alike, and that our reputation for this secured us an unbelievably positive future for these Turks and Caicos Islands as a world and regional leader.”

He added: “This future is ours to have if we have the collective courage to seize it.”

16 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Clarity needed on Vincentian workers at Beaches, says PDM leader The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) has denied any part in allowing 200 citizens from St Vincent and the Grenadines to take up temporary work at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

“There is an urgent need for full transparency and clarification on this matter,” acting PDM leader Sean Astwood said in a lengthy statement on Wednesday, March 24.

The subject was first brought up by Hon. Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services, in a Facebook statement on March 22.

He said a WhatsApp message had been circulating claiming that 200 people from the southeast

Caribbean islands would be arriving soon to work at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The message spoke of an address Hon. Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Finance for St Vincent and the Grenadines, had recently made to the country’s parliament.

“While this may be their plan, it is certainly not the plan of this Government when we have so many Turks and Caicos Islanders who are out of work presently.

“I can assure you that we have not had any discussions along these lines and in the event. We do, we will always look out for the betterment of our people first.”

The minister said the message talked about a possible temporary

Acting PDM leader Sean Astwood attachment of Beaches personnel at various resorts to gain knowledge and skills.

They would then return to St Vincent and work at the newly

HEAVY DUTY VEHICLE AUCTION Sun Oil Turks & Caicos Limited is accepting bids on used heavy-duty vehicles. All vehicles are being offered on an “AS IS, WHERE IS” basis. Bidders are encouraged to perform their own inspections on or before April 9th, 2021. Inspections are by appointment only, kindly contact us at 649- 946-4377 to arrange.

Further terms and conditions are outlined on the bid portal which can be accessed as outlined below:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KLH8535 Auction closes at 5PM, APRIL 12th, 2021

acquired Buccament Bay Resort once it is completed and ready for opening, he recalled.

Musgrove said the Government must look at a reciprocal arrangement for the TCI people “so they too can benefit from such an exchange” to enhance their growth and development.

He said he planned to arrange a meeting with Beaches Turks and Caicos to discuss the matter further, after which an update will be provided to the TCI public.

Just days later, acting PDM leader Astwood revealed that he had also been made aware of the WhatsApp message.

He said following Musgrove’s response, he had been contacted by a number of concerned citizens seeking clarity on the PDM’s position.

Astwood explained that since the PDM was elected as the Government in December 2016, there had been no arrangements with Beaches Turks and Caicos to allow this programme.

On June 19, 2020, the immigration and labour minister placed a freeze on all first-time work permits, he reminded. “This policy was still in place up until the PDM left office.”

Then on July 23, 2020 the immigration and labour minister reminded the public that anyone whose work permits were not renewed or cancelled must leave the TCI, he added.

He said these moves were “critical” so that Turks and Caicos Islanders in need of employment would not have to compete with work permit holders for the same opportunities.

Astwood went on to say that cross training can be beneficial but the specific arrangement should be reviewed closely to ensure it is beneficial to Turks and Caicos Islanders.

He added that the June to July timeline that the 200 workers are anticipated to arrive is the same time when many students will be graduating from high school or university.

“Therefore, in addition to TC Islanders who are currently unemployed and underemployed, we will have recent high school and university graduates that will be seeking employment.”

Astwood said that where possible Beaches Turks and Caicos should fill those 200 available positions with TC Islanders.

He urged the Government to carry out a territory-wide employment registration drive along with a review of business staffing plans.

“I also note the public statements from those in official quarters stating that this arrangement was agreed by the former PDM administration,” he said.

“And call on the PNP Government to publicly release any and all agreements with Beaches as it relates to immigration matters.

The public has a right to have full clarity in this matter.”

On March 21, Sandals Resorts International sent out a press release on its “long established” Team Member Exchange Programme – an initiative of Sandals Corporate University.

This supports the movement of Caribbean nationals to take up assignments at a number of the company’s resorts across the region, it read.

In addition, the company continues to carry out region-wide job recruitment exercises, taking advantage of Caricom’s ‘Free Movement of Skilled Persons Agreement’.

Executive chairman Adam Stewart said: “We are proud of our longstanding tradition of providing cross-border growth and opportunities for regional residents to both learn new skills and share their existing ones.”

Each participant’s unique training programme, including length of stay overseas, and learning objectives, is determined through collaboration with the home resort and the SCU. Stewart added: “We want our people to travel to other islands, spend quality time and learn from their colleagues and other nationals. Each island is unique and so is each of our resorts.

“This exchange programme not only serves to strengthen our regional workforce but also to provide them with the kind of exposure and cultural sensitivity that positions them to be global citizens.”

The TC Weekly News reached out to Sandals for details on the alleged employment at Beaches Turks and Caicos but received no response up to press time.

March 30 - April 5, 2021

NEWS 17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EMT on the frontline calls for full Covid-19 disclosure

BY DELANA ISLES “I can still remember being absolutely terrified to go outside and treat patients with the coronavirus,” said emergency medical technician Shawna Robinson.

Robinson was sharing her experience working on the frontlines of the global Covid-19 pandemic over the past year at a special event held at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Tuesday, March 23.

“EMTs are the first persons to be called… during this time we had to deal with persons who falsified information, and as such we would have responded with limited personal protection equipment.”

Even in light of this, Robinson is grateful for the dedicated assistance of other frontline workers during this time.

“I would like to thank members from 911 who often go above and beyond to get information from persons who tried to hold back,” she said during the live streamed

TCI celebrates Easter with two public holidays Good Friday, April 2, and Easter Monday, April 5, are both public holidays in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The remaining public holidays during 2021 are JAGS McCartney Day on Monday, May 31, and Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday on Monday, June 14.

Emancipation Day is held on Sunday, August 1 – observed Monday, August 2, National Youth Day is on Friday, September 24, and National Heritage Day is Monday,

October 11.

National Day of Thanksgiving is on Friday, November 26, Christmas Day on Saturday, December 25 – observed Monday, December 27, and Boxing Day is Sunday, December 26 – observed Tuesday, December 28.

There is no automatic right to time off work on these days but banks close and the majority of the working population is granted time off or extra pay depending on their contracts.

event.

But she also has a word of caution, and an appeal to people’s decency during these perilous times for her and her workmates’ safety.

“For those persons who are in quarantine, I would love to inform them, please, say you are in quarantine, and if you are facing symptoms, please share such with us.

“It does not diminish the way we treat you or care for you, whether or not you have the virus.”

She explained this is absolutely necessary.

“When we are exposed to individuals who do not share their information, we therefore risk transmitting the disease to nurses, doctors, EMTs and by extension their families.”

Robinson also had words of advice on stigmatisation, which she herself has experienced.

“I would also like to advise the public not to stigmatise members on the frontline, we are often the safest persons to be around.

“We follow the protocols set by the Government and by our department in dealing with the coronavirus, so there is no need to pull away.”

She recounted her own experience with stigma.

“I have had several experiences… I can remember being inside Smart [supermarket]

Emergency Medical Technician Shawna Robinson, one of TCI’s many frontline heroes (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)

where a cashier had told me ‘please step back more than six feet apart’ simply because she was scared that I was carrying the virus.

“I have had to deal with patients who I have seen at their most vulnerable, who did not inform me that they were on… quarantine.

“I would have stood over them to nebulise them only to have a nurse pull me to the side to tell me this patient has coronavirus.”

These experiences, Robinson said, have all worked to her benefit as she is now more resilient and

prepared to deal with Covid-19.

“Regardless of the fact that I have had many close calls, I am still willing to go out and help those who are in need.

“I would like to encourage members of the public to continue to sanitise and properly safeguard yourselves from the virus.”

Robinson was speaking at one of two events held by TCI Hospital to reflect on the one year anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic and the first confirmed case in the TCI.

FOOD 

Spotlight on Blu Bar bartender Winston Rigby is a 31-year-old bartender at one of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ hottest new bars, the Blu Bar, located in Grace Bay, Providenciales, along the strip.

He has recently dedicated his life to the career of bartending.

Having being doing it fulltime now for about two years, his talents are shown in the colourful and spectacular array of delicious drinks and cocktails that he prepares by hand.

Being bit by the bartending bug while being a bar porter at Beaches Turks and Caicos, he paved a way for himself by learning from those around him until given the opportunity to shine himself.

He was born and raised on the beautiful island of Providenciales in the rural Five Cays district, with great family and friends, which is reflected

BY JAGO MOORE

Chef Jago Moore has been in the industry for over 12 years. He’s the winner of TCI Top Chef 2018 and Lobster Fest 2018, a member of the TCI Culinary Team, and owner of Moores Fries and Moores Cookies. Visit chefmoore649 and tciculinarycollection on Instagram to find out more.

One of Winston Rigby’s signature cocktails

in his kind-hearted personality and charm.

He said: “To me it was

a learning experience at first which than became a passion. The energy you

Winston Rigby, bartender at the Blu Bar in Grace Bay, Providenciales

get from being behind the bar is breath-taking and that rush is like no other.

“You’re also learning constantly about new drinks and tricks of the

trade and the interactions with the patrons is a plus, with their smiling faces.”

18

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Bahamian churches: Vaccine has our blessing THE Bahamas Christian Council’s COVID Vaccine Investigative Committee has released its report on coronavirus vaccinations, saying experts agree that the benefits of getting the shot far outweighs the disadvantages.

However, the committee recommended that all churches make their own determination in advising their flock about taking the vaccine, adding that whether or not a person decides to get vaccinated is a personal choice.

The March 22 report, which was released to the media yesterday, looked at several concerns of the Christian community: the emergency use of COVID-19 vaccines; COVID-19 vaccines’ interaction with human DNA; the use of fetal cell lines in the vaccines; and the relevance of COVID-19 to “end time prophecy”.

The report noted that the World Health Organisation validated its first vaccine on its Emergency Use Listing (EUL) on December 31, 2020.

“The EUL opens the door for countries to expedite their own regulatory approval processes to import and administer the vaccines,” the report said.

Some vaccine sceptics have been concerned at the pace COVID-19 vaccines have been rolled out and questioned their long-term impact.

The Christian Council’s report

The committee, chaired by Pastor Mario Moxey, interviewed a cross-section of experts for its report and also reviewed media reports, scientific journals and social media.

said that “it is well within reason” that the WHO’s validation of the emergency use of COVID-19 vaccines “is warranted”.

The group also noted: “The subject matter experts unanimously agreed that the long-term effects of the vaccines cannot be determined at this time simply because sufficient time has not elapsed; however, the benefits of the vaccines far outweigh the disadvantages.”

The group also said: “There is no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines, and in particular, nucleic acid

vaccines, alter or modify the human DNA.” BCC also referred to concerns from the anti-abortion community about fetal cells being used in the vaccines.

“A cell line is a general term that applies to a defined population of cells that can be maintained for culture for an extended period of time. They are usually clonal, meaning that the entire population originated from a single common ancestor cell,” the report said.

“Historical fetal cell lines were

derived in the 1960’s and 1970’s from two elective abortions that have been used to create vaccines for diseases such as hepatitis A, rubella, and rabies. Any COVID-19 vaccine that relies on these historic cell lines will not require nor solicit new abortions.

“Generally, many vaccines use these cell lines either in the development stage where vaccines are created, the confirmation stage where vaccines are tested for their efficacy or the production stage where cell lines are used to produce the vaccine.

“Neither Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson or OxfordAstraZeneca vaccines use fetal cell lines in their production and hence neither of these vaccines contain aborted fetal components.”

The BCC committee said the religious body opposes elective abortion and recognises that the use of cell lines may infringe on what is deemed morally acceptable.

“However, given that COVID-19 vaccines do not contain components of aborted fetus or cell lines, those who receive COVID-19 vaccines should not be deemed an accessory to an abortion,” the report said.

In reference to some Christians who see COVID-19 as biblical “end time prophecy” and the vaccine as the “mark of the beast,” the group said there was insufficient evidence to prove this.

“The mark of the beast, when viewed in its scriptural context, speaks to a decision to renounce Jesus Christ and submit to the lordship of Satan. Consequently, the decision to be vaccinated for COVID-19, in a general sense, does not fall into this category.

“Further, our research has found that the events outlined in scripture surrounding the introduction of the mark of the beast, are not consistent with the global response of the medical and scientific communities to this current COVID-19 pandemic.”

Ultimately the group said people must make their own choice about taking the vaccine.

“Each and every Christian must weigh the risks and benefits of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine based upon their particular situation and condition, in addition to seeking spiritual guidance from their faith leaders.

“Whether or not a citizen chooses to take a COVID-19 vaccine is a matter of personal choice.”

The committee, chaired by Pastor Mario Moxey, interviewed a crosssection of experts for its report and also reviewed media reports, scientific journals and social media. The group also interviewed theologians and had a panel discussion with the government’s National COVID-19 Vaccine Consultative Committee.

(Tribune242)

Caribbean seeks vaccines to revive economy THE Caribbean is hunting for visitors and vaccines to jump-start the stalled economy in one of the world’s most tourism-dependent regions.

Clear waters and warm sand attracted a record 31.5 million tourists to the Caribbean in 2019, but visits plummeted by an estimated 60 percent to 80 percent as the pandemic hit last year. That’s devastating for a region whose countries depend heavily on visitors for income.

“Many countries prefer hurricanes compared to what has happened with the pandemic,” said Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, a former Bahamian tourism minister who also led the Caribbean Tourism Organisation.

Tens of thousands of tourismrelated jobs were lost, including those held by Nadia Kidd and her mother in Jamaica. Kidd, 31, was a waitress at a resort and her mother worked at a guest house. Kidd, like many other workers, has yet to receive her severance pay and now runs a tiny grocery store out of her home to support her mother and daughter.

“Everything is all on me,” said Kidd, who worked at the Melia Braco Village resort in Trelawny. “I have loans to pay, light bill and internet (that I) have to pay because my daughter has to go to school online.”

Desperate to create safe conditions for tourism, the Caribbean is turning to India and China for vaccines at a time when global supplies are strained and richer nations are ahead of them in line for shots from other sources. A few have been fortunate to get quick shipments, while others could wait weeks, if not months.

The Caribbean saw COVID-19 levels rising in November, along with variants feared to be more contagious. More than 522,000 cases and more than 7,500 deaths have been reported in 35 of the region’s countries and territories.

“The rate of increase has been alarming,” said Dr. Joy St. John, executive director of the Trinidadbased Caribbean Public Health Agency.

The small nations adopted a variety of anti-virus measures, nearly

all requiring visitors at a minimum to show recent negative tests upon arrival.

Cuba — the largest Caribbean nation and the only one working on its own vaccines — choked off arrivals after seeing infections surge. It requires visitors to stay in designated hotels and to take new tests upon landing.

International travelers to St. Kitts and Nevis must stay at certain hotels, and St. Eustatius requires visitors to register their reason for traveling before giving approval.

Many islands ask visitors to isolate, though how long and under what conditions can vary: Those arriving in the Cayman Islands or Barbados must stay inside a hotel for at least a week or face jail. Others, like Puerto Rico, don’t require quarantine if a negative test is presented upon arrival, and tourists can roam the U.S. territory’s beaches and forests.

Aruba, Anguilla, Curacao and Montserrat and others have promoted themselves as havens for those who

A tourist, wearing a protective face mask amid the new cornavirus pandemic, walks along the beach shore in Havana, Cuba.

can work by internet from a room by the sea, although officials can be harsh on visitors who flout virus restrictions.

At least 13 countries in the region have signed up for the World Health Organization’s COVAX program, created to ensure access to COVID-19 shots for low- and middle-income countries.

Among those is Jamaica, which had pursued an aggressive reopening to tourism despite not receiving a

single shipment of vaccines. On Sunday, however, it announced it was closing public beaches and rivers until March 22.

Its government says it expects to receive 50,000 vaccines from India this week and 14,400 AstraZeneca vaccines next week via the COVAX program. It also anticipates receiving 1.8 million vaccine doses by April via the African Medical Supply Platform, a nonprofit initiative by the African Union.

March 30 - April 5, 2021

World News

19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

‘Right’ for Cameron behaviour to be probed - minister IT WOULD be “absolutely right” if MPs or the public standards watchdog wanted to investigate the “behaviour” of David Cameron relating to a finance boss when he was in power, a minister has said.

The Sunday Times has claimed that Lex Greensill was given “privileged access” to ministries as an unpaid adviser.

Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said he did not think Mr Cameron had done “anything wrong”.

Neither Mr Greensill nor Mr Cameron has commented on the matter.

Labour has called for an investigation by the Committee of Standards in Public Life into the extent of Whitehall department access granted to Mr Greensill when the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition was in power.

The Sunday Times reported that - while working as an adviser - he had promoted a government-backed loans scheme to speed up payments to pharmacists.

His company, Greensill Capital, later went on to provide funds for the scheme.

In 2018 - two years after he had stood down as prime minister - Mr Cameron became an adviser to the firm.

Mr Kwarteng told the BBC: “If people, committees want to look at what happened, that is absolutely right for them to do that.”

David Cameron was prime minister from 2010 to 2016.

He added: “What we have to do is maintain really high standards in public life.

“We have lots of bodies look at that. We’ve got select committees in Parliament, other committees. It’s up to them to make sure best standards are upheld.”

‘GREAT DEAL OF TRANSPARENCY’ But Mr Kwarteng said he could not “act as judge and jury in this case”, as he was not “fully cognisant” of what had happened.

“I don’t know what the actual facts are,” he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. “There are lots of

allegations.”

The Committee on Standards In Public Life has said it does not investigate individual cases, but it is looking more widely at issues of lobbying and transparency.

It was recently reported that Mr Cameron had unsuccessfully lobbied Chancellor Rishi Sunak on behalf of Greensill Capital to increase the firm’s involvement in a scheme offering government-backed loans to companies struggling in the pandemic.

Mr Kwarteng said: “He was an employee of the company and there was nothing wrong with that... There is nothing particularly exceptional about that.

“There is a great deal of transparency...any member of the public can get the freedom of information.”

‘EXTENT OF ACCESS’ And the business secretary told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme there was “no suggestion” the former prime minister “could not pursue another career after politics”.

He added that he did not think Mr Cameron “did anything wrong”, but the government was “always reviewing the rules”.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said “obvious gaps” in the rules had

been “exposed”, adding: “What’s happening with Greensill gets murkier by the day, and I think it’s obvious that there’s got to be an inquiry. There are too many unanswered questions.

“We need a government that steps up and gives answers to those that are not only concerned about the murky nature of what’s going on, but also want to have the basic question answered - what’s going to happen to me and my job in Liberty Steel.”

Greensill Capital - the main backer of the firm Liberty Steel, which employs 5,000 people in the UK - went bust recently.

The government says it is looking at “all options” for keeping Liberty Steel going and saving jobs.

Mr Cameron was cleared last week by a lobbying watchdog, which looked at whether he should have declared himself on the register of consultant lobbyists over work he had done for the firm since leaving Downing Street.

But Labour said taxpayers “deserve to know the true extent of access to this current Conservative government that was afforded to Greensill Capital through the former prime minister”.

A government spokesman said Mr Greensill had previously acted as a supply-chain finance adviser and Crown representative - adding the appointment had been unpaid and approved in the normal manner.

Witness says Chauvin suffocated George Floyd ‘like a fish in a bag’ A WITNESS who saw George Floyd gasp for air during his fatal arrest last May testified in excruciating detail Monday, telling jurors he saw Derek Chauvin use a “blood choke” on the unarmed Black man.

Donald Williams, 33, said he happened upon the disturbing scene during an outing to Cup Foods in Minneapolis and could sense “the energy was off” even before he noticed Floyd pinned to the pavement under Chauvin’s knee.

Chauvin, a now-fired Minneapolis police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for 9 minutes and 26 seconds as the unarmed Black man repeatedly said he couldn’t breathe and called out for his dead mother, prosecutors said during their opening statement Monday.

Called to the stand by prosecutors as their third witness, Williams recalled “hearing George on the ground pretty much pleading for his life” as Chauvin used a “blood choke” on him.

A former college wrestler who studies mixed martial arts and works in private security, Williams said

he watched in horror as Chauvin allegedly “shimmied” his body back and forth to increase the pressure on Floyd’s neck and cut off his circulation.

He said the more Chauvin shimmied, “the more you see Floyd fade away, slowly fade away, like a fish in a bag.”

“You see his eyes slowly, you know, pale out,” he said. “His eyes slowly rolled to the back of his head.

You see blood coming out of his nose.”

He described Chauvin’s position on Floyd’s neck as “torture.”

“I felt the officer on top was shimmying to get the final choke in,” he said, “to get the kill choke.”

Chauvin’s defense objected to the characterization, and Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill instructed jurors to “disregard” the statement.

Williams recalled locking eyes with Chauvin at one point as he and other bystanders pleaded with police to relent.

As the graphic video of Floyd’s May 25 arrest played again in the

courtroom, Williams described what he saw from the vantage point of a wrestling and MMA expert.

“George wants to turn his face the other way to release the pressure, but he can’t,” Williams testified before the defense objected and the judge asked jurors to step into an adjoining room.

Cahill told Williams there was a limit to “how far your expertise can go” and then excused the jury for the day after learning the internet feed to a room where Floyd’s relatives were watching the proceedings was disrupted.

Williams is due back on the stand Tuesday.

Chauvin, 45, is facing charges of second-degree murder, third degree murder and manslaughter. If convicted of the top charge, he faces up to 40 years in prison.

The former cop who spent 19 years on the force has pleaded not guilty, with his defense making the argument Monday that Floyd died from an accidental drug overdose linked to heart problems.

(NYDailynews)

Former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin is pictured during the death of George Floyd. (Handout)

20 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

Premier, governor and Gov’t ministers visit the prison Premier Charles Washington Misick, Governor Nigel Dakin and four Government ministers visited Her Majesty’s Prison Grand Turk on Thursday, March 25.

The visit was held to enable the officials to tour the facility, and discuss the “current state of affairs” along with the 2023 Prison Visionary Plan, a Government press release said.

Prison Superintendent David Bowden and Assistant Prison Superintendent Meshelle Jennings escorted the visitors around the facility.

They spoke to them about the operations, security and structural integrity of the prison.

Joining the premier and governor were Hon. Akerria Missick, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, Planning and Development, Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime,

Gaming and Disaster Management, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services, and Althea Been, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Hon. Otis Morris, Minister of Home Affairs, Public Utilities and Transportation, who is responsible for the prison, visited the prison twice last week.

The first visit was on Tuesday, March 23, as part of a tour of his departments. He was accompanied by the Reverend John Malcolm, an advocate for rehabilitation During his visit, Morris said he understands this has been “an incredibly difficult time” for staff, prisoners and their families who have been unable to make visits since March 2020.

On December 29, 2020, 14 members of staff at the prison were reported as having Covid-19 and

The visiting officials are shown around the facility in Grand Turk (TCI Government)

had been temporarily removed from duty.

Then on January 7, the Ministry of Health announced five more employees had tested positive, bringing to total to 19, calling it a

“workplace cluster”.

“The site visit with staff, management and inmates of HMP, was well received,” the Government press release said on Friday, March 26.

“Staff members were thanked for all their work, particularly the work undertaken during an outbreak of Covid-19 among staff late last year, to keep prisoners and staff safe.”

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 21

22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

MARIO RIGBY

TO UNDERTAKE FIRST EVER

CAICOS CHALLENGE

BY DELANA ISLES

“I chose the Caicos Challenge because I wanted to come back home to my roots where it all began.”

These are the words of Mario Rigby, son of the soil, world traveller, eco-explorer, adventure seeker.

“Turks and Caicos Islands, particularly Providenciales, was an adventurous place for me as a child. I would head out into the bush, or along the beaches and traverse the land for hours in the hot sun.

“It is where my love for the outdoors began, right here in the Turks and Caicos.”

He’s talking about the upcoming challenge - which will no doubt be a breeze and a rekindling of idyllic boyhood days in the ‘beautiful by nature’ Islands.

The Caicos Challenge will be a gruelling six-day expedition taking place from April 30 to May 6, covering all eight of the TCI’s main islands, Rigby’s website outlines (www.mariorigby.com/).

The entire challenge will be done mostly solo with Rigby swimming, biking, kayaking, diving, running and hiking.

This, he writes on his latest blog post, will be an athletic feat that has never been recorded, therefore making him the first to ever do so.

An important aspect of the upcoming event is Rigby’s intention to push the drive towards self-sustainability by educating the youth of the Islands, and providing them with the resources to start tackling these issues as a community.

His message of a sustainable future for all started in the TCI and has taken him around the world.

He has addressed global climate change issues at the United Nations and continues to use his platform to educate and promote sustainable and responsible travel and lifestyle choices.

Additionally, he writes: “This is the perfect opportunity to spotlight

the importance of maintaining the precious natural resources of home.

“Focusing on the marine environment with its spectacular coral reef system and shining a light on local organisations implementing successful eco initiatives.”

ENDURANCE TRAINING “I’ve been training with Monvida Sports,” he tells Weekly News.

Monvida Sports is a sports conditioning studio that trains top level athletes.

“Steven, who is the coach at Monvida, trained me to overcome any and all obstacles, so we spent a lot of time on power, strength, mobility, body work (calisthenics) work and endurance.”

Sounds a bit exhausting no doubt for us couch potatoes, but for Rigby, it’s a just walk in the park, or should that read, a walk across Africa. Suffice it to say, this is not his first rodeo.

His well-documented walk across Africa, as many of our readers and his avid fans and followers may recall, was quite a test of endurance and perseverance.

Rigby says he will be bringing this same strength of will to this challenge.

“I’ve done three major expeditions and a number of projects: walking from Toronto to Montreal, walking the length of Africa, cycling across North America, kayaking the length of Lake Malawi, and kayaking the length of Lake Ontario.”

Meanwhile, there’s an opportunity for all to join the Caicos Challenge on the Strava app from anywhere in the world.

“As a notable influencer we are inviting you to choose your challenge, come along on Mario’s adventure and share it with your community.

“Our hope is to create a digital community where participants can interact, win prizes and become part of a global event,” Rigby’s website reads.

Mario Rigby takes on another challenge - this time at home in the Turks and Caicos Islands

During the six-day event, there will be giveaways. These prizes will be various Arc’teryx adventure gear and Rigby will also be selling clothes with the Caicos Challenge

logo on it.

Random prizes for participation and story sharing will be spread throughout the expedition as well.

To show your support and

follow along the journey, interested persons can follow Mario Rigby on Instagram @mariorigby, Facebook @MarioRigbyExplores and his website www.mariorigby.com

March 30 - April 5, 2021

NEWS 23

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

The hen is an endearing, funny, and even affectionate animal (Pixabay)

A pupil at Enid Capron Primary School proudly holding his new computer (Digicel)

Company donates laptops to pupils for at home learning Telecoms giant Digicel donated 10 HP Chromebooks to pupils at Enid Capron Primary School in Providenciales on Wednesday, March 25.

The company hopes the donation will aid the students in their athome and advanced studies for the remainder of the school term and beyond, a press release explained.

Principal Sophia Garland was key in selecting the children who had found it difficult to get access to dependable and quality devices for online learning during the pandemic.

“For the past year we have seen the struggles of our students and their families as a result of the abrupt transition to at-home learning,” she said.

“While I do believe teachers, parents and students did their very best in coping through the challenges, these devices will play a major role in alleviating those difficulties and we can’t say thank you enough.”

Lydia Tucker, head of ICT business solutions for Digicel TCI, presented the students with the laptops, MIFI devices complete with student data plans, and soft covers.

“We know this pandemic was

especially hard on students. Digicel is proud of all of you for staying the course and remaining focused through the challenges,” she said.

“We are always willing and happy to give back in ways that will benefit the learning and development of our youths and we will continue to build on this relationship with the school to ensure that we can continue to do just that.”

Regional CEO of Digicel Sinead O’Marcaigh, who was also present, spoke to the students about their favourite subjects and plans for the remainder of the school year.

“These students are a special group of students whom are passionate in incredible areas of studies ranging from linguistics to health science,” she said.

“These devices along with the MIFI student data plans will give them better access to the information they need to further their education and also tap into their individual interests and we are most excited about that.”

Principal Garland explained that the students will be able to use the devices both at home and at school, as schools across the TCI prepare to partially transition back to classroom learning.

Thinking of having chickens at home?

Interested in installing a chicken coop? Raising chickens at home certainly has a lot of benefits.

Much more if you want to start organic farming.

You will have fresh eggs, your vegetable garden will also benefit from the manure and there will be less waste from leftover meals.

In addition, it gives a rather rustic and charming decor to your garden, which is not unpleasant to contemplate.

However, having chickens in your home also has several disadvantages that you should consider.

You have to think about maintenance, which is not an easy task, without forgetting the risks for the vegetable garden - the danger from predatory animals like potcakes and wild cats, the precautions to be taken when you go on vacation or even respect for the neighbourhood.

To avoid bad smells, it is necessary to clean your henhouse weekly.

In addition, do not forget to remove your poultry from their habitat early in the morning and lock them up in the evening for their safety.

Although having chickens allows you to collect manure which is very high in nitrogen and use it as free compost for your garden, be aware that your poultry could also harm your vegetables.

BY DENIS BELANGER - NATURE SPLENDOR

Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs.

For more information call 332-3381 or email denisbgarden@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page Nature Splendor.

If you have not put in place a partition between your henhouse and your vegetable garden, your hens may peck your plants and destroy all of them.

So, it would make more sense to put up a separation fence between your chicken coop and your yard, which means you need to have enough space to hold everything.

If there is another downside to having chickens, it is probably their production capacity which is never precise. You may already be waiting more than six months for your first egg.

Some hens reach menopause faster, that is, only one year after their fertile period. Others can continue to lay eggs for up to six years or more.

On the good side, going to find your eggs in the henhouse, see the hens wandering in the garden, knowing what to eat, the benefits and pleasures of raising chickens are varied.

It is a return to the farm and the land that many of us really need in the time of pandemic. Having fresh eggs almost every day, going to collect them, to cook them, is a real pleasure.

The good layers can give us up to 250 eggs a year. Some good

layers are also often appreciated for their flesh, even if they often end their life quietly in the henhouse.

A hen can, on her own, swallow up to 150 kilos of organic waste a year: peelings, past vegetables or fruits, leftovers from meals, a net weight in months in your trash, and on your bill.

The hen is an endearing, funny, and even affectionate animal. Watching them live, discovering their character, their way of life, looking after them day after day, instilling this culture closer to nature in our children, all this is made possible by the simple raising of a few chickens.

Like humans, dogs or cats, chickens each have their own little character, some are shy, others aggressive, sociable or wild, domineering or submissive.

Having chickens can generate curiosity and interest in your neighbours, allowing you to make nice encounters.

The very good part is that slugs, snails, ticks and other insects are their dessert and by pecking they aerate the soil.

Happy Easter!

24 NEWS

March 30 - April 5, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TCI holds walk-in vaccinations It was National Vaccination Day in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Friday, March 26, and to celebrate the Ministry of Health opened a series of walk-in Covid-19

vaccination centres.

Residents were invited to register and receive their Pfizer/BioNTech jab in person all in one day at a number of locations in

Providenciales and Grand Turk.

At the Town Centre Mall in Downtown, Providenciales, there was a sense of festivity as a DJ played music and

BARBARA FRANCIS

Has Retired

spot prizes were awarded to lucky attendees.

Deputy Governor Anya Williams was on hand to welcome the public and hand out prizes.

She said: “The reason why we’re here today is because we’re continuing to work to increase our vaccination numbers here in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“We have now been fighting the pandemic for over a year, we have lost several persons and our hearts and our thoughts go out to the families of those persons.

“As far as we’re concerned there’s no more need for us to have any more loss of lives if we try to work to arm ourselves with the tools that have been necessary to help us to protect ourselves.”

She reminded that more than 30 percent of the adult population – over 13,000 people – have already been vaccinated, adding “but for us that’s just not good enough”.

“Our goal is to get to over 70 percent of persons

vaccinated here in these Islands so that we can have herd immunity,” she said.

“So, we’re working today to try to boost our vaccination numbers as we prepare to receive a third batch of the vaccine.”

The deputy governor, who is co-chair of the TCI Covid-19 Vaccination Oversight Steering Committee, said receipt of more vaccine is dependent on how the TCI’s demand grows.

She went on to explain that the walk-in vaccinations are there to support those that are not able to travel to medical facilities.

“We’re taking the vaccine out to the communities to be able to reach persons, that is our goal.”

She thanked Digicel, Flow and Graceway IGA, Business Solutions for their support during the day.

Prize winner Sheffield Green who works on South Dock said he chose to be vaccinated “to protect myself, my family and the country”.

Other walk-in locations included the Providenciales Primary Healthcare Clinic, Grand Turk Primary Healthcare Clinic.

And private clinics – Family Medical, Grace Bay Medical, Associated Medical, Omnicare Medical and Carolina Medical.

The TCI received its first batch of Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines from the UK government on January 7, and the second on February 25.

As of Monday, March 29, there were 101 active cases of Covid-19 – 77 in Providenciales, three in North Caicos, one in Middle Caicos, 19 in South Caicos and one in Grand Turk.

The South Caicos cases centred around the Eliza Basden Aged Care and Special Needs Centre which has since been deep cleaned and sanitised.

All clients of the centre have received their first vaccination and are being observed closely. Clients and staff continue to be tested weekly.

For the past thirty-five years your family had to share you with many strangers who very rapidly became friends and loved ones, we have watched you had done more than just teach and educate the minds of young ones.

We watch you sweep into the lives of many students and parents and filled it with love, laughter, care, knowledge and most importantly, education.

You have impacted the lives of many, and you shared yourself with many that will forever remember you, and not only because you are one of the best at what you do, but because you have become so special in many lives.

We are proud of you, not only as a teacher, but as a friend, a mother, a grand-mother, and great grand-mother. We are proud to say that we know you and we are sure you will be beyond missed in the educational system.

We would also like to thank the International School of the Turks and Caicos for sending you out with a bang by renaming the nursey after you as the ‘Ms. Barbara Francis Nursery”, you deserved it very much! We want you know that you are loved, your honored, and we appreciate you.

Congratulations on the retirement of your well-loved and achieved career journey, you will be missed.

Love: your children, grandchildren and your great grandchildren.

Residents at the walk-up vaccination point at the Town Centre Mall in Downtown, Providenciales, receive their shots (TCI Government)

March 23-29, 2021

Classifieds

25

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JOB LISTINGS SERVICES AUTO SALES REAL ESTATE

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

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

GET LEGAL HELP ON YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM

DELIVERY BOY

CALL OR EMAIL US AT

We are in need of a young man to deliver bills, pick up checks and distribute newspapers. Must be honest and have a clean driver’s license.

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

Contact the Publisher at tcweeklynews@gmail.com

26 CLASSIFIEDS ALDERAY VANESSA GARDINER Boddle Way, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

ALL SERVICES TCI Acting on behalf

HYNETTA FORBES Ball Park Rd, Down Town

2 HELPERS - $6.50 HOURLY

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly

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

CONTACT: 346-6466

CONTACT: 331-3937

5 MANUFACTURES - $7 HOURLY

NEMOURS SHELL AFFAIRS

Second Mara, Blue Hills

VELMA SMITH

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 246-0889

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

Asssiting in making soaps, shampoo, hand santizers, etc.

CONTACT: 331-7073

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board 24746

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24779

DJA STORE

DEREK JARRAD WILSON

DENIS PROSPER

24743

BACK OF MAX MINI MART, KEW TOWN Is seeking a

SALES CLERK

PHASE 2, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.50 hourly

• Greets customers, receive payment by cash, checks and credit cards, Issue receipts, and change due to customers. Count money in cash drawers to ensure that amounts are correct.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 345-0349

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24785

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24753

ELKANAH HALL

ER CLEANING SERVICES LTD

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24788

EASY WAY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES ACTING ON BEHALF OF R& L CONSTRUCTION JUNE HILLS, BLUE HILLS 3331236

TILE SETTER

$9.00 HOURLY Install tiles on different surfaces.

CONTACT: 245-1522

NORTH BACK SALINA, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

ARROW ENGINEERING & ASPHALT

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $6.50 hourly

LABOURER

CONTACT: 243-2874

DOREEN'S PLACE

BLUE HILLS, ON THE BEACH 232-5964

KITCHEN HELPER

$300 WEEKLY Preparing the workstation. Cleaning kitchen.

332-6872 South Dock

$6.50 hourly Set up equipment, erect scaffolding, mixing concrete, etc.

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY. WORK PERMIT RENEWALS 24735

LOCAL FRATELLO VENETIAN ROAD Is seeking to employ a

CHEF

Setting up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment.

Preparing ingredients to use in cooking chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

Salary: $8.25 hourly

CONTACT: 243-5353

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24772

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24752

L&A TOURIST SHOPPING TRADE

RESIDENCE, FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Sweeping, mopping the floor, and other work.

• Must be willing to work 5 days a week.

Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 3422986 OR 242-8751

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24771

CONTACT: 242-1307

28 Oyster Lane, The Bight Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Must be able to bend and lift.

• Cleaning consist of mopping, sweeping, ensuring office areas are clean and up to par.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 333-1246

BEAUTI FLY SALON KEW TOWN PLAZA, BLACK CROW ROAD Is seeking to employ a

SUPERVISOR Supervising staff in the salon and scheduling work hours. Salary: $9 hourly

CONTACT: 344-4801

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24754

CONTACT 345-7285

or email your resume to Kornellcarter@gmail. com Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labour Department

24774

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24755

Unit #5 Rony Eli Plaza, 576 millennium Hgwy Is seeking to employ a

BAKER

Measure and mix raw ingredients, bake and decorate items, and ensure that all raw and finished goods adhere to quality and food safety standards.

Salary: $1,200 monthly

CONTACT: 241-6646

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24730

E&V CONSTRUCTION GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

Duties: Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly

CONTACT: (649) 341 1299 Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

24748

Duties: Work in different site in the construction of small houses in area. To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $7 per hourly

CONTACT: (649) 242 1358

Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24749

GRANT’S PETROLEUM

#771 Leeward Highway, P.O Box 477, Providenciales Is seeking

HIGGS CONSTRUCTION LTD.

13 Aviation Drive, Goerre Williams Complex, Providenciales Is seeking

SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHER

PUMP ATTENDANT

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

EXTRAORDINARY MINDS LEARNING CENTER

• To tutor students with special needs • Must be willing to work 5 days a week.

Salary: $1,800 monthly

CONTACT: 232-1473

KENDRA HALL

in child care, Ensuring a safe environment, feeding, dressing, bathing, preparing meal and administering medication.

Salary @6.50 per hour

CONTACT: 246-6120

BLUE HILLS BAKERY

LABOURER MASON

KORNELL CARTER

BABYSITTER Must have experience

HAIR DRESSER

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, including deep conditioning, permanents, hair coloring, and weaving.

Salary: $7.50 hourly.

GRAND TURK, BACK SALINA Is seeking to employ a

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. The positions is currently held by a work permit holder

4 Ole Ch Street, Five Cays First time

NORTH BACK SALINA, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

MAGALIE JEAN MOREAU

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24736

BEAUTIFUL BRAIDS

24781

LONG BAY Is seeking to employ a

2 DOMESTIC WORKERS

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 231-7242

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24729

To fuel up customer tank and storage tank, clean and maintain the work area, stock shelves and freezers.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 343-4671

Bottle Creek, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a

• Removing debris from site, mixing mortar, loading and off-loading materials etc.

• To work Monday-Friday 7am to 5pm Salary: $6.25 hourly CONTACT: 243-2491 EMAIL: N_V_IGGS@HOTMAIL.COM

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently hold this position

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24744

KAHALIA CAPRON

KABATHA SMITH

24760

12 Black Crow, Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 331-2825

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24783

PROVIDENCIALES Seeking to Employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Caring for young child 4 years old • Sweeping and mopping the floors • Clean Bathrooms, Kitchen, Bedrooms, • Do laundry and other house work To work 6 Days per week Salary: $6.50 hourly.

CONTACT : 332-3106

Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the labour board.

247746

March 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BLUE HILLS CONSTRUCTION

#11 WILSON CIRCLE BACK ROAD, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

2 LABOURERS

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site. Salary: $7-$10 hourly

CONTACT: 346-0002

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24758

JAMEL HAWKINS #5 Oyster lane, The Bight Is seeking to employ a

BRANDFORD HALL Airport Road, South Caicos Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

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

• 6 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 348-3581 OR 243-1051

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24787

JOSEPH FABIAN FRANCIS #68 Tampa Ave, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

ELECTRICIAN Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems. Inspect transformers and circuit breakers. Identify electrical problems with a variety of testing devices.

Salary: $7.50 hourly

CONTACT: 243-4309

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24773

BUY WISE BEAUTY SUPPLY 71 Paradise Road, Cooper Jack Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

JEWELRY ARTIST

Make Jewelry such as necklace, bracelets etc.

Salary: $8.50 per hour.

Must be willing to work 6 days per week

CONTACT: 243-8574

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24737

JULIEN LANDSCAPING MANAGEMENT SERVICES

#24 behind Mara, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

NANNY Taking care of children, and doing housework. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 343-6577

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24784

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

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 244-8372

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently holds this position 24739

CHANDRA HAMILTON PARADISE ROAD, GLASS SHACK, PROVIDENCIALES

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping which includes Cleaning mopping dusting, sweeping and assisting with cooking and any other chores. Salary: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT 242-5686

CLIMATECH LTD

AC TECHNICIAN

To be held by a work permit holder • Install, inspect, maintain, and repair air conditioner.

• Ventilate equipment and controls making sure they operate efficiently and continuously.

• Perform regular maintenance work on cooling units.

• Install, replace, or repair equipment that has been damaged.

• Install new air-conditioning systems and equipment.

• Inspect and maintain refrigerators and ice machines • Clean blowers and coils, check tensions of belts and motors.

• Rate $10 per hour

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. RENEWAL 24742

ADDRESS: 636 INDUSTRIAL PARK, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS AND PLEASE DROP OFF RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, PROVIDENCIALES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. CONTACT 231-4545 24731

CRISMARKIS DIAZ

CLOVERLEAF AGENCY-246-7382

East Circle, Leeward Palms Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 247-9250

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24770

Whitby, North Caicos

AGNES SWANN

Whitby, North Caicos

MAINTENANCE (RENEWAL)

Fix and maintain building, and machines.

Rate: $8.00 hr

GRACE DIANA GLASGOW

DOMESTIC WORKER (NEW)

Description: cleaning house, running errands and cooking Pay: 7.00 hr

ARNOLD GARDINER

Major Hill, North Caicos

LABOURER (RENEWAL)

Rate: $6.50 hr Description: Cleaning and weeding yard, moving trash, washing windows

MOUNT LEBENON BAPTIST CHURCH

HELPER (RENEWAL)

Pay: 6.50 hr Description: A variety of tasks, cleaning the church, cleaning the church yard

ELIZABETH SWANN

Whitby, North Caicos

1 LABOURER (RENEWAL)

Rate: $6.50 per hr Weeding yard, moving trash, washing windows

24764

MAC MOTORS LTD.

D&B AUTO LTD

Shamrack Plaza, Industrial Park, Providenciales – Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 941-8438 | Fax: (649) 941-7387 | Email: dnbautoparts@tciway.tc D&B Auto Ltd. is currently looking for a suitably qualified person to the role of:

Auto Mechanic • At least 6 years or more experience as an Auto Mechanic • Must be able to perform all vehicle diagnostics and updates using diagnostic equipment.

• Able to maintain vehicle functional condition by listening to customers/ operator complaints, conduct inspections, repair engine failures, repair mechanical and electrical systems malfunctions and replace parts and components according to manufacturer standards specially Japanese vehicles.

• Keeps shop equipment operating by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, maintaining supplies and perform preventive maintenance.

• Must hold a valid driver license with a clean, insurable, driving record, must be able to drive manual and automatic transmissions.

• Knowledge of tools and equipment required to conduct all repairs.

• Basic wage is $9.00 per hour

Mechanic Helper • • • • •

Must have six months of prior work experience Assist Head Mechanic in servicing and repairing customer cars Must be able to work flexible hours Able to use cleaning devices/equipment for washing vehicles Knowledgeable on basic auto maintenance and repair and has ability to perform such tasks as prescribed.

• Able to assist in performing maintenance and repair of different variety of vehicle.

• Basic wage is $7.00 per hour

DOMESTIC WORKER • Clean Showroom & Bathrooms • Clean kitchen, takeout garbage • Must be willing to work on weekends/holidays • Must have a clean TI police record and a drivers license This Ad is for work permit renewal. However, this position is open to all suitable Turks & Caicos Islanders.

Starting Wage: $6.25/hour Drop your resume off at Mac Motors Ltd. 1089 Leeward Highway, Providenciales TCI or contact us on 649-339-3841

BODY REPAIR MECHANIC APPLICANT MUST: • Examine damaged vehicles and estimate needed repairs • Have knowledge and qualifications to repair & paint automotive bodies back to pre-damaged condition /manufacturer’s standard, using the appropriate repair techniques and tools (must have basic tools of trade; e.g. paint guns, sanders, etc.)

• Be able to refinish parts by mixing paints, match colors, apply primer & finishing coats; use chassis liner jig safely to perform chassis realignment; • Have knowledge of mechanical accident processes; e.g.: suspension drive shaft, steering & tracking; trim & lock, replacing glass and windscreens • Demonstrate sound knowledge of welding TIG/MIG, gas welding & brazing, and safety procedures during welding process • Present last four (4) years of work experience & two reference letters from past employers

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

• Remuneration: Basic Wage (Retainer) - $6.25 per hour plus commission.

DROP YOUR RESUME OFF AT MAC MOTORS LTD. 1089 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES TCI OR CONTACT US ON 649-339-3841 OR EMAIL AT JODELL@CLAYMORE.TC 24750

28 CLASSIFIEDS LOTUS SPA

LUCY MOTT LEE

#39 MANGROVE AVE, LONG BAY Is seeking to employ a

GRACE BAY RETREAT, LOWER BIGHT Is seeking to employ a

THERAPIST

• To work 6 days a week. (days off are flexible) • Must do Thai Massage (with certificate) Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 333-2014

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board.

A work permit holder currently holds this position 24757

ARTIST

• Painting on canvas.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 431-1079

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24759

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MARTIN GRAY #59 BIRD ROCK STREET, LONG BAY, PROVIDENCIALES

3 FARMERS

Experience in organic farming, fertilizing, spraying and harvesting. Salary $300.00 per week THIS POSITION IS FOR FIRST TIME APPLICANTS BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 232-3037 24752

#1 PALM CIRCLE, LEEWARD PALMS Is seeking to employ a

MECHANIC – $10 HOURLY

Engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters.

CONTACT: 231-0538

OVANDO CONSTRUCTION LTD.

101 Grace Bay Suites, Grace Bay, Providenciales. Tel: 344-8971

ROOFER

- Construct and install rafters; - installation of metal, glazed ceramic/Spanish tile roof; - meet with architects and engineers to discuss drawing or changes. $8 per hour

TILER

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board.

Work permit holders currently holds this positions

- float floors/walls to prep for installation - install/grout ceramic/porcelain/clay tiles - meet with architects as needed for changes to design concerpt $7 per hour BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR BOARD OR EMAIL: HELLO@THEKFORCE.COM. THIS A NEW POSITION IS FOR A WORK PERMIT RENEWALS. 24761

SIMON WOOD ASSOCIATES LTD. (DBA SWA ARCHITECTS)

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Unit 301 Neptune Court, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands is seeking to employ a

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

QUALIFIED ARCHITECT Applicant must be fully qualified RIBA part 3 or equal with a minimum of 3 years post-qualification experience; with the ability to travel freely throughout the Caribbean and South America

SUNNY FOODS

WHOLESALE CASH N CARRY Is now Interviewing for the following position:

ASSISTANT STORE MANAGER As a Grocery Store Manager you must have the passion to grow sales along with exceptional customer service and communication skills. A hard worker with integrity and great management skills.

• Candidate must have at least 6-8 years experience in the field.

• Delivering exceptional Customer service and passion to Grow Sales and Control Costs • Identifying, hiring and training talent especially Belongers.

MUST HAVE THROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF THE FOLLOWING: • Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most specifically, QuickBooks Pro 2018, Microsoft Excel, and Inventory control management.

• Extensive knowledge of SMS Front & Back Office POS System • Extensive knowledge of NCR 7456 POS • Plans and directs the day-to-day operations of a grocery store.

• Develops strategies to improve customer service, drive store sales, and increase profitability.

• Ensures customer needs are met, complaints are resolved, and service is quick and efficient.

• Forecasts staffing needs and develops a recruiting strategy to provide optimal staffing in all areas • Familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures.

Relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.

• Must be responsible in identifying and interviewing Belongers for hiring; • Setting up a training program for employees re proper merchandising and customer service skills as well as the workings of running an International Grocery Store.

• Candidate must be multilingual.

• Work schedule will include weekends, holidays, as required to meet the demands of the position.

Salary range commensurate with experience.

• Suitable candidate must be able to work under their own initiative and has the ability to see projects from concept to completion.

• Researches literature and maintain knowledge of current building materials, structural, mechanical and electrical system codes and methods of application.

• Reviews subcontractor’s shop drawings to ensure compliance with specifications and contract agreements by checking them for technical accuracy according to accepted guideline.

• Work with customers and clients to gather facts, define design and space planning problems, conceptualize possible solutions and secure approvals of proposals.

• Review product literature, analyze materials and determine appropriateness for application to projects.

• Provide advice and develop design documents to initiate and modify architectural, interior design and space planning solutions.

• Perform design drafting including preliminary drawings for architectural working drawings and full detail drawings for architectural, structural and mechanical works associated with building construction or improvement projects.

• Have advanced AutoCAD and SketchUp skills and intermediate Revit skills. Also, proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and Adobe Photoshop.

• Have post graduate Project Management qualification and experience in Contract Administration and Site Inspection procedures.

• Excellent written and spoken English and Spanish languages.

QUALIFIED TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO INFO@SWA.TC; FOR MORE INQUIRES CONTACT 649 946 5911.

SALARIES COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE

24732

24751

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

CONTACT: 941-8112

This Position is for work permit renewal interested Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of the resume to the Labour Department.

NINJA CONSTRUCTION

March 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 29

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS PHILIP CAPRON

P&D EMPLOYMENT Acting on behalf of

PORSHIA WILLIAMS-VALERIO #6 GEORGE ALLEY, AVIATION DRIVE Is seeking to employ a

#20B Liney Ave, Wheeland Is seeking to employ a

ROBINSON CONSTRUCTION

LABOURER

495 Leeward Highway Tel: 231-0327

NANNY

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

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER - $6.25 hourly Cleaning worksite.

D&B TILE

Henery Rd, South Dock Tel: 232-3465

TILE LAYER

- $10 hourly Install materials on floors, walls, ceilings, countertops. Level the surface with a layer of mortar or plywood.

Taking care of children, and doing housework. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 232-1473

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board.

A work permit holder currently holds this position 24780

CONTACT: 241-0968

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD. WORK PERMIT HOLDERS CURRENTLY HOLDS THESE POSITION 24738

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24740

SMITH ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING

SMITH ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING

SNAKE HILL, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

SNAKE HILL, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

DRYWALL FINISHER

MAINTENANCE WORKER

ROXY BEAUTY SALON

46A Airport Road, #4 Oswald Simons Building next to Caicos Coin Laundry. Is seeking

4 NAIL TECHNICIANS

-$6.25 hourly Manicures, gel nails, nail fills, nail repair etc.

Fix and maintain mechanical equipment, buildings, and machines.

Tasks include plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system.

Salary: $8.50 hourly

• Responsible for installing wallboards to ceilings or to interior walls of buildings and applying plaster. Smooths out imperfections with trowels and shackle.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $10 hourly

4 HAIR STYLISTS

- $6.25 hourly Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, hair treatments, etc.

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24741

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24786

EDITH MESA

GREEN DIAMOND SALON & BAR

OCEAN DRIVE, WEST ROAD, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

BARMAID

Duties: To take client orders, Mix and Serve drinks. Keep counter areas clean. Must be willing to work Irregular, long and late hours.

Salary: $8.00 per hour

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 343-0835

CONTACT: 232-1400

CONTACT: 243-7157

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder.

All applicants are asked to submit A copy of their resume to the Labour Dept.

These positions are currently Held by work permit holders.

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. ThIs is A first time work permit application.

24778

24777

24769

SUNNY FOODS RETAIL & WHOLESALE LTD Is seeking to Employee an:

MERCHANDISER

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Must be trained in merchandising and item categorization and posses certificate • Must be posses a minimum of 6- 8 years of job experience in merchandising and outfitting • Must be willing to work extended hours daily/weekly • Must be proficient in Sams 4s SPT-4740 Reflections • Must be available to work

• •

• •

different shifts day, evening and night Must be available to work variable schedules Must be willing to work in different environments (coolers, freezers, warehouse) Must be proficient in Back Office Implementation Ordering System Must be familiar or possess relationship with local and

SUNSHINE NURSERY

out of country suppliers and ordering systems.

• Must be proficient in: Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Backoffice • Must be willing and able to work in a team setting or as an individual Salary range $ 7.50 – $8.50 per hour , commensurate with experience.

$6:50 HR Maintenance if plants.

Cutting and transplanting of plants. And for

NANNY

QUINCY THOMAS

A STEELMAN

24775

To take care of two children and a baby, and to do light cooking and cleaning of the home at $7.00 per hour for 5 -6 days per week; sometimes Sundays and holidays.

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO ROBERTBEEN6@HOTMAIL.COM OR TANYABEEN@ HOTMAIL.COM, AS WELL AS TO THE LABOUR BOARD. THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Please reply to the emails or to 333-7296 on or before April 5, 2021.

24752

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS Sunny Foods Blue Hills

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Phone: 649-946-8384 Is now interviewing for the following position:

PURCHASER JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Must have prior experience purchasing Asian & American Products.

• Must be have prior experience with Quick Books 2020.

• Must be available to work on Holiday, Nights and weekends. Both Saturday and Sunday nights are required with a day off during the middle of the week.

• Must be have good communication skills in able to commutate with overseas vendors and logistics companies .

• Ensures orders are placed in timely manner, customer request are met quick and efficiently.

• Must have extensive knowledge on NCR 7456 or similar POS system.

• Setting up training programs for employees on proper merchandising and customer service skills.

• Most work is required by standing for long periods of time and working in an environment that is not air conditioned such as a dry warehouse.

CONTACT: 941-8112

CONTACT: 941-8112

This Position is for work permit renewal interested Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of the resume to the Labour Department.

ROBERT & TANYA BEEN

of Turquoise Point, 50 Allegro Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands are seeking to employ a

1 LABOURER

CONTACT: 347-3121

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DUTIES: As per the position SALRIES: NEGOTIABLE

ROBERTS AGENCY FOR

241-2043 THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT

RENALDO SEJOUR

HAIRSTYLIST (1) NAIL TECHNICIAN (1) MAKE-UP ARTIST (1) BARTENDER (1) WAITRESS (1) CASHIER (1)

24745

$6:50 hr Cutting and tying if steel as we bas laying of steel for concrete

Belongers are encouraged to apply at The Labour Board These positions are work permit Renewals 24782

OVER BACK, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ the following workers:

Projetech Construction Management & Services Ltd would like to advise the general public that we will be relocating our Head Office from Project House, Leeward Highway, to the second level floor of Morgan House, on Sandcastle Road, Grace Bay (formerly known as The Scotia Bank Building) adjacent to “Graceway Gourmet” in Grace Bay .

After 20 years located at Project House, we shall be opening our doors at the new location from 31st March 2021.

We look forward to welcoming all visitors accordingly

2 PEDICURISTS

- $6.25 hourly Perform pedicures and massage client’s feet.

CONTACT: 345-3914

CONTACT: 345-3914

PUBLIC NOTICE

24733

Salary for this position will commensurate with qualification and experience.

This Position is for first time work permit interested Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of the resume to the Labour Department. 24734

30 CLASSIFIEDS WARD’S CONSULTANCY

ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT A&L TRUCKING

WALKIN EQUIPMENT & CONTRACTING South Dock Road, Providenciales.

Tel (649) 231-0088. Is seeking to Employee

2 OPERATORS

South dock rd.

Tel: 246-5644

DRIVER

- $7.00p/h Load and unload cargo

SWANN CUTS HAIR STUDIO

A102 Graceway Plaza, IGA Leeward Hwy 345-7347

COSMETOLOGIST

-$.25 p/h Cut, trim and shape hair.

Belonger are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the labour board.

These position is currently held by work permit holder

24763

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Duties: Operate Heavy Duty Equipment Hours 40-44 hrs per week Salary: $16.00 per hour

1 MECHANIC

Duties: Work on Heavy Duty Equipment Hours: 40-44 hrs per week Salary: $15.00 per hour BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. MUST BE WILLING TO WORK OVERTIME IF REQUIRED. MININUM OF 10 YEARS EXPERIENCE

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

VICIOUS CUTS

SHIVAGO MISSICK Breezy Brae, Grand Turk

LIGHTHOUSE ROAD, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

BARBER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

Duties: Welcome clients as they arrive in the shop and engage them in conversation to determine their needs. Cut, Trim hair and beards or Giving shaves. Assume responsibility for The maintenance of Instruments and work Station.

SALARY: $8.00 per hour

CONTACT: 431-5006

CONTACT: 431-7116

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder.

24767

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. this This position is held by a Work permit holder.

24768

AG CONSTRUCTION

KUBERA LIMITED

#62 MALVIN ROAD, JUBA SOUND Is seeking to employ a

DBA GOLDSMITH

STORE CLERK - $7.00 PER HOUR

MAINTENANCE WORKER

Must be able to provide assistance to customers and handle various duties such as operating the cash register, greeting customers, helping people locate products, doing paper work, stocking shelves, and maintaining the store clean and organized.

Fix and maintain mechanical equipment, buildings, and machines.

Tasks include plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system. Salary: $7 hourly

Positions are currently held by work permit holders Belongers can drop off resume to the store

JOB VACANCY DIRECTOR, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS RED CROSS LOCATION: PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

The Red Cross helps vulnerable people in crisis whoever and wherever they are.

We are looking for a Director to lead the organisation and to provide financial and operational oversight of the organisation’s activities. The Director will also lead the development and implementation of fundraising and income-generation activities, with the aim of achieving sustainable programmes and activities.

The Job Description and Application Form may be collected at the TCI Red Cross office, Downtown, Providenciales, or they may be found online at: https://www.redcross.org.tc/about/news/ You will need proven experience in organisational, programme and financial management. You will have experience managing significant budgets and operating plans and a well-developed understanding of the Government, statutory and voluntary sectors in which the TCI Red Cross works.

PROVIDENCIALES: CENTRAL SQUARE AND THE REGENT VILLAGE GRAND TURK: GOLDSMITH BUILDING FRONT STREET TEL: 649 946 4100. EMAIL: KUBERA@TCIWAY.TC BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT

CONTACT: 244-5638

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24793

THE LAW FIRM OF STANFIELD GREENE Is seeking one (1) suitably qualified

ATTORNEY The successful candidate will be responsible for the firm’s civil and criminal litigation.

• Applicants should have at least 15+ years of practical experience with emphasis in the field of litigation at both the trial and appellate level; general knowledge of legal principles and precedents of statutory and constitutional law, civic, criminal

administrative, employment, contract and procurement law and should possess good writing skills and have an eye for details.

• An annual salary package of approximately US$80,000.00 (is negotiable and based on experience).

APPLICANTS SHOULD APPLY BY SENDING THEIR RESUME OR CV TO: STANFIELD GREENE PO Box 481, Graceway House, Building A, Suite 201 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands ATTENTION: Clayton S Greene Tel: (649)-941-3101 Email: csg@stanfieldgreene.com Only those Applicants that will be interviewed will be contacted. The position is currently being held by a Work Permit Holder

24747

Salary is in the range of $36,000 – $45,000 per annum, commensurate with qualifications and experience. We are committed to welcoming people for the widest possible diversity of background, culture and experience.

Kindly note that the Application Form must be submitted. Consideration will not be given to a CV. The completed Application Form and supporting documents may be emailed to: chair@redcross.org.tc Or they may be delivered in a sealed envelope to:

The Chairman Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross Sam Harvey Building Downtown Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands The closing date for receipt of applications is April 16th, 2021 and interviews are provisionally scheduled for the week commencing April 26th.

PTW HOLDINGS LTD.

Meridian House, Le Vele Plaza, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

LIASON OFFICER

RESPONSIBILITIES: • Liase with customer and vendors, monitor delivery logistics, assist customer service • Negotiate with vendors regarding price, lead time, ordering quantities, pick packing, and delivery expectations to achieve ongoing cost containment • Coordinate, assign and review the work of pick

packers, dispatching crew; scheduling transportation crews and routes; and related activities • Coordinate activities with supply-chain vendors and clients, resolve supply-chain issues, prepare and submit progress and other reports EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • 4+ years of experience in

logistics or supply-chain management • Bachelor’s Degree in related field • Strong technical skills in: SaaS, Microsoft Office Suite, CRM and Social Media • Excellent written communication and technical presentation skills.

Salary: $2500/mo

SEND RESUME TO INFO@ISLEDELIVER.TC AND BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD.

24796

March 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS KAIERI PHOTOGRAPHY

M.P. & FASHION STORE

OVER BACK Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

STORE CLERK

Duties: Greet customers Receive payments by cash, Credit cards and cheques, Issue receipts and change.

Due to customers. Check And balance cash at the end of the day. SALARY: $7.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 347-8185

Belongers are encouraged To send copy of their resume to The Labour Board. This Position is currently held by a Work permit holder.

24504

PHOTOGRAPHER DUTIES WILL INCLUDE: • Weddings • Portraits • Real estate • Underwater • Video production • Office work and editing • Client Sales REQUIREMENTS AS FOLLOWS: • College Degree • 5 years experience in wedding

J&JF CONSTRUCTION

GK FOODS

• To work 6 days a week, hours of employment are flexible $ 7.00 per hour • Must have Bachelor’s Degree • Minimum 6 years of prior related Supermarket work experience is must • Duties: To install and maintain electrical works

7A Martha Yard, The Bight Is seeking to employ a

MECHANIC (2)

To work 6 days a week, hours of employment are flexible $ 7.00 per hour Minimum 10 years of experience in industrial refrigeration equipment installation/maintenance etc., Duties: Trouble shoot, maintenance of all the mechanical equipment.

Interested applicants should send their resume to:

gksupermarkettci@gmail.com

KST WATERSPORTS #31 Leeward Highway, Long Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

FIRST MATE

24720

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

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 341-2830

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24727

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24725

BOAT CAPTAIN

CONTACT: 432-6611 EMAIL: PPMLTCI@GMAIL.COM

CLEANER

CONTACT: 348-7523

LABOURER

CONTACT: 341-9801

Back Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site.

Salary: $10 hourly

UFLY PARASAILING

• operate various ship systems, and direct the deck crew • Responsible for cargo or passengers.

• Responsible for navigation and safety.

Salary: $550 weekly

TCI AUTO PARTS & CAR DEALER

LABOURER

PPML

Parker Ave, Phase 1, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

• To assist construction and maintenance company with general labour.

• Knowledge and proficiency of power tools.

• Experience in a general aspects of basic trades, to be knowledgeable and helpful.

Salary: $7.50 hourly

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24724

and underwater photography in the Turks and Caicos • Competent in Photoshop, light room, Final Cut. • Competent UW photographer with own underwater photo equipment and lighting • Dive master certified • Work Long hours and weekends • Own Pro Level Camera and Various lenses • Own Car Salary plus commission

THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL HOWEVER BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 232-2447 PLEASE SEND YOUR CV TO INFO@KAIERI.COM 24727

1125 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI Looking to fill up following positions

ELECTRICIAN (2)

TCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

Osbourne road, back Salina grand Turk

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24722

Walkin Marine, Long Bay Is seeking to employ a

Responsible for the safe operation of vessel and ensure that it is operated and crewed according to both company and legal guidelines. Salary: $10 hourly.

CONTACT: 341-2773

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24721

ST THOMAS PARISH GRAND TURK

SEXTON

St Thomas Parish is looking for a Sexton at Grand Turk, TCI area.

DUTIES INCLUDES: • Opening, closing and preparing churches and the Dillon Hall for services and activities • Cleaning inside

buildings and yard • Painting, tending plants, and weeding St Thomas churchyard etc ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: • Must be 21+ years old Salary: $6.50 per hour

Submit Resumes to: St Thomas Parish, Grand Turk. Fax number: (649) 946-1301 or Telephone: (649) 232-2402 (Parish Priest) Current Position held by Work Permit Holder Please submit copy of application to Labour Department, Grand Turk 24718

872 Business Solutions Building, P.O. Box 203, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-1900. Fax: (649) 946-1119

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEER SALARY RANGE: USD 50,000 – USD 60,000

CORE FUNCTION

Under the general direction of the Director of Technology – provide support to the Telecommunications Commission in technical regulation of the telecommunications sector.

POSITION OVERVIEW

A person that is well-rounded in radio communications and Information Technology (IT) systems. Have experience developing, implementing, and maintaining a variety of communications networks to National and International standards. The candidate must be familiar with the TCI Telecommunications Ordinance, ITU-R Recommendations, and other regional and international body’s recommendations as it pertains to telecommunication regulation. Excellent oral and writing skills are essential, and the individual must be able to work in teams and train others.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provide Support to the Director of Technology • Ensure that all communicating entities are radiating on their prescribed frequencies in accordance with the TCI Telecommunications Commission Ordinance and Regulations.

• Responsible for undertaking technical evaluations for all license applications.

• Responsible for testing and verification, approval of installers, Marking, and Registering of apparatus, equipment, and systems.

• Perform Quality of Service measurement on the Telco’s and other Radio Systems.

• Develop expertise to train staff on new technologies.

• Responsible for the administration and maintenance of the office computer systems and network.

REQUIREMENTS

• B.Sc. in Engineering, Telecommunications, or Computer Science degree.

• M.Sc. in related discipline and/or a professional certification is a plus.

• Candidate shall be a mature, qualified engineer with a minimum of 3 years telecommunications and radio communication experience.

• Highly competent, self motivated, self-managed.

• Able to carry out the responsibilities in the administration & monitoring of spectrum.

• Proficient in the use of spectrum analyzers, Electromagnetic Field (EMF) testers, frequency counters, network analyzers, Power Meters, and other testing equipment.

• Experienced with databases, network (LAN, WAN) and patch management.

• Knowledge of system security (e.g., Intrusion detection systems) and data backup/recovery • Knowledge of the information communication technology industry would be an asset.

• Applicants must not have a direct or indirect involvement in any local communications company.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE Submit your resumes with a cover letter and two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer). Copies of your qualifications and a copy of the passport photo page. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a Police Certificate that is issued no longer than six months from the date of submission.

Applications should be addressed to The Chairman of the Turks and Caicos Islands Telecommunications Commission at jobs@tcitelecommission.tc under the subject matter Application – Telecommunications Engineer Turks and Caicos Islander need only apply, and applications without all supporting documents will not be processed. We thank interested persons for their application, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted.

APPLICATION EXTENSION: MARCH 31st, 2021

32 CLASSIFIEDS ALL STYLE HAIR CUT BARBER SHOP #7 BLACK CROW, KEW PLAZA, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

BARBER

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.

Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 441-3791

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24701

GOOD TASTE RESTAURANT #70 Five Cays Rd

BAKER - $10

Measure and mix raw ingredients, bake and decorate items, and ensure that all raw and finished goods adhere to quality and food safety standards.

CHEF - $12 HOURLY

Setting up workstations.

Preparing ingredients.

Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

CONTACT: 246-5186

Belongrs are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24669

DOROTHY GERTRUDE BEEN

BREEZY BRAE, GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Duties: To clean and Maintain premises by raking And cleaning yard disposing of Refuse, cleaning construction sites. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 243-4125

PAINTER

Required by Medical Practice: 1. Full time 2. Must have at least 5 years’ experience 3. Assist doctors in

general practice 4. Good clinical nursing skills and bedside manner 5. Able to multitask

EMAIL: KATHLEENCANNON@GMAIL.COM NO LATER THAN APRIL 20TH, 2021.

FABRICE GRINDA

Millennium Hgwy, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

NAIL TECHNICIAN Basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing. Pedicures and the application of acrylic toenails. Salary: $8.50 hourly

CONTACT: 243-4580

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24684

24667

203 LONG BAY BEACH, LONG BAY Is seeking to employ a

PERSONAL AGENT

• Overseas and on island rep.

• Spearheads the estate and management of family.

• Plans travel dates.

• Assist with owners reservations.

• Personal Shopping.

• On call for 24 hours.

Salary: $5,000 monthly

CONTACT: 347-3630

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24674

IMPERIAL SECURITY SERVICES

Keeping the kitchen tidy at all times along with Restaurant area. Washing dishes and pots and putting them away in respective places. Dispose of garbage in kitchen after cleaning. All other duties assign by management. Salary: $6.75 hourly CONTACT: 946-4472 EMAIL: TATE@GILLEY’SCAFE.TC Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board.

A work permit holder currently holds this position

24685

MANPOWER SERVICES

3 Hope Street, Grace Bay, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

PLUMBER

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

Installs pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids. Installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc. Salary: $700 bi-weekly

CONTACT: 348-2374

CONTACT: 241-4976. EMAIL: MANPOWER-SERVICES@HOTMAIL.COM

A work permit holder holds this position. Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24700

EXPERIENCED RN

5A Windwood Drive, Leeward Highway

GEORGINA CASTILLO

24673

DISHWASHER

BABYSITTER

B&L CONSTRUCTION

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labor Board. Belongers only need apply.

This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

GILLEY’S CAFE

#3 AVIATION DRIVE, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

ASSOCIATED MEDICAL

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is for renewal of a work permit application.

AIRPORT TERMINAL, AIRPORT RD Is seeking to employ a

JARAD BURKLEY WILLIAMS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24680

Water Loo Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

SECURITY OFFICER

- $7.50 HOURLY Secures premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment, and access points; permitting entry. Obtains help by sounding alarms.

2 DOMESTIC WORKERS - $6.50 HOURLY Cleaning and other jobs.

CONTACT: 946-2375

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit renewals 24682

OLIVER BEEN

Hospital Rd, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-6712

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24712

ENID J. FERGUSON

Silverado Rd, South Dock Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 244-2251

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24670

Back Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces.

Salary: $300 weekly

BEACH COTTAGE CONCIERGE LTD

BUTLER

Greet guests at the door, assist in the planning of events and dinner parties, oversee table settings, and serve drinks and food. Salary –$12 hourly

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS WILL HAVE PREFERENCE. INTERESTED APPLICANTS ARE URGED TO APPLY BY CONTACTING INFO@TRITONLUXURYVILLA.COM OR 347-3630 203 LONG BAY BEACH DRIVE, LONG BAY, AND TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. 24675

DWIGHT SWANN

DANESI GUERRIER

CONTACT: 231-2134

24683

#3 Wendell Swann Apt., Wheeland, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

#16 BY THE NEW TESTAMENT, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

• Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 244-2121

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24710

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24715

CONTACT: 345-5284

HORIZON CONSTRUCTION LTD. #101 Grace Bay Suite, Grace Bay, Providenciales. Tel: 431-2871

INTERIOR SUPERVISOR • Responsible for supervising building projects and interior finishing team; • Ensure a consistently high standard of work is produced in accordance with specification of drawings and quality standards through regular quality inspections with sub-contractors and site manager; • Supervise day-to-day operations of sub-contractors/company team to ensure operational procedures are adhered to and projects are on schedule; • Issue material requisitions in adequate time to achieve construction work schedule; • Schedule, control/monitor all interior finishing projects and materials weekly; • Prepare material list for each job based on drawings; measure work completed by subcontractors to ensure that they are ONLY paid for works completed; • Record staff hours and prepare time-sheets for payroll.

Position requires working 44hrs weekly plus some holidays and weekends Wages: $25 per hour This position is being advertised for a work permit renewal. Qualified Belongers are encouraged to deliver resume to the Labor Department, Providenciales and Horizon Construction office. Or by emailing: hello@thekforce.com

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

24688

March 23-29, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

RACQUEL LEVY

Leeward Hgwy, The Bight Is seeking to employ a

CARETAKER

Help the patient get dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry.

Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0355

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position

24676

ELVA WILLIAMS

Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Seeking to employ a

LABOURER

DUTIES: To clean premises, remove debris and dispose of same and keep all surrounding areas. SALARY: $6.50 per hour

RAYCAL HANDFIELD

269 GOLD AVE., MILLENNIUM HEIGHTS Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 331-7641

SHERON STURRUP LIGHTHOUSE ROAD GRAND TURK

DOMESTIC WORKER GENERAL DOMESTIC CLEANING, TIDYING MOPPING FLOORS, OTHER SURFACE DUSTING, POLISHING FURNITURE CLEANING BATHROOMS, TOILETS, KITCHEN, LIVING ROOM AND BEDROOMS LAUNDERING SHEETS, TOWELS, PERSONAL CLOTHING AND IRONING TO WORK 3 DAYS PER WEEK SALARY: $6:25 PER HOUR

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24704

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24686

BRIDGETTE MISSICK

AUSTIN DICKENSON

South Suburbs, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Duties: To clean property, to trim Trees, remove all debris and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 243-9642

CONTACT: 243-0313

Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Duties: To clean vehicles at a car wash, remove all debris clients vehicles and any other duties as may be necessary.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-1549

CONTACT: 231-4657

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder.

24691

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder.

24698

WET MONEY ENTERPRISES

WENDAL JOSEPH

CALEB SIMMONS

LABOURER

MASON - $300 WEEKLY

East Suburbs, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Duties: To clean property, to trim Trees, remove all debris and to Assist clients with water sports equipment and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 331-3449

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held By a work permit holder.

24693

M.P. & FASHION STORE

OVER BACK Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

STORE CLERK

Duties: Greet customers Receive payments by cash, Credit cards and cheques, Issue receipts and change.

Due to customers. Check And balance cash at the end of the day. SALARY: $7.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 347-8185

Belongers are encouraged To send copy of their resume to The Labour Board. This Position is currently held by a Work permit holder.

24504

TURTLE CREEK DR, DISCOVERY BAY Is seeking to employ a

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

CARPENTER - $300 WEEKLY

Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

CONTACT: 333-8687 EMAIL: TCIUNIQUE@GMAIL.COM

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24678

of North Backsalina Grand Turk, is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

to work 6 days a week at $6.50 an hour.

THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY FILLED BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. PERSONS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPIES RESUMES TO THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND CALL 649-347-9209 24723

KAIERI PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHER

REQUIREMENTS AS FOLLOWS: • College Degree • 5 years experience in wedding

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

• Perform a wide variety of general building maintenance repairs and services • Repair appliances, pumps, and maintenance and landscaping equipment.

• Repair faucets, toilets, showers, seals, and any other malfunctioning plumbing fixtures Salary: $9 hourly

CONTACT: 649-946-5547

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24706

ANDY LIGHTBOURNE

South Suburbs, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 244-4724

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24695

SMITHCO

HEMINGWAYS'S RESTAURANT

PUMP ATTENDANT

DISHWASHER, KITCHEN HELPER, SERVER/ BEACH SERVER (2)

CONTACT: 231-0984 EMAIL SMITHCOTCI@GMAIL.COM Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds the position. 24716

POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD

BY WORK PERMIT HOLDERS. SUITABLE BELONGERS MAY APPLY WITH LABOUR DEPARTMENT 24708

ANA GODET

TROPICAL BAR

#84 INDUSTRIAL PARK ROAD, FIVE CAYS Is seeking a

To fuel up customer tank and storage tank, clean and maintain the work area, stock shelves and freezers.

Salary: $7 hourly

Osborne Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 242-1910

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position. Is currently held by a work permit holder. 24692

BEEN MEP CO. LTD.

and underwater photography in the Turks and Caicos • Competent in Photoshop, light room, Final Cut. • Competent UW photographer with own underwater photo equipment and lighting • Dive master certified • Work Long hours and weekends • Own Pro Level Camera and Various lenses • Own Car Salary plus commission

THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL HOWEVER BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 232-2447 PLEASE SEND YOUR CV TO INFO@KAIERI.COM 24727

Salary $6.25 - $8.00 per hour. Serve guest/ customers, take orders, wash dishes, stack dishes, offload incoming supplies, General cleaning of restaurant etc.

Front Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER Stocking and

supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-0426

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24677

WILSON CL, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

Positions available for

Must be able to carry out general repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Must have at least 5 years experience in maintenance on large homes and commercial projects. Must be willing to work weekend and Public Holidays. Remuneration will commence at $10.00 per hour depending on level of experience.

Please email resume to beenmep@tciway.tc This ad is for work permit renewal application and also any local/belonger qualified applicants as several positions are available

THE SANDS, GRACE BAY, PROVIDENCIALES Telephone:941-8408

BLUE HILLS GLASS

Unit 54, Saltmills Plaza, Provo. Tel: 649 331 0732

MAINTENANCE MEN

Osbourne road, back Salina grand Turk

DUTIES WILL INCLUDE: • Weddings • Portraits • Real estate • Underwater • Video production • Office work and editing • Client Sales

SIBONNE HOTEL

#2 The Bight, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

24690

GLASSMAN

- $6.25 hourly Installing glass in windows etc.

GLASS CUTTER - $7 hourly Cutting glass.

CONTACT: 2427012/347-9199

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently holds these positions

24671

CUTTING EDGE LANDSCAPING AND DESIGNS

CLUB PILLOWS

CHARLIE’S DEPOT

GARDENER

1 BARMAID

COSMETICS MANAGER

Must have at least 3 years experience and able to work with little or no supervision. Duty includes Selling and Serving of Drinks to customer and keeping work station clean.

Salary starts at $6.50 per hour.

756 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

Soil cultivation, digging, and forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 333-2621

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24714

Grace Bay. Seeks

CONTACT 941-4034 IF INTERESTED.

All Belonger are encouraged to submit copy of their resume to Labor. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

24699

Industrial Drive, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a -$7.50 hourly

GENERAL MERCHANDISE MANAGER - $7.50 hourly

• Must have passion to grow sales along with exceptional customer service and communication skills.

• Advanced knowledge in computer systems especially QB, POS and Microsoft Excel.

• Develop strategies to improve customer service, drive sales and increase profitability.

CONTACT: 241-7968

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24713

34 CLASSIFIEDS

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GRACE BAY PHARMACY Box 1276, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Community/Retail Pharmacy located on the Island of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, is seeking 3 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.

Ad is for permit renewal however position is open to all suitably qualified applicants. Salary ranges from $36,000.00 to $42,000.00.

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN REQUIRED 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.

Ad is for permit renewal however position is open to all suitably qualified applicants. Salary ranges from $22,800.00 to $25,200.00.

DOMESTIC WORKER • Needed for retail business.

• Must be willing to work • Weekends and Holidays Ad is for work permit renewal however position is open to all suitably qualified applicants. Salary $7.00 per hour

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

TRAVELERS WEST BUILDING, AIRPORT ROAD Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

STORE HELPER

PHARMACIST NEEDED

All applicants should apply to the Managing Director, Grace Bay Pharmacy, Box 1276, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or email jobs@gracebaypharmacy.com.

PATRICK E. HARVEY

PATIENCE HAIR BOUTIQUE

• Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

Clean the store, dusting, sweeping, mopping, restroom cleaning, stock shelves, pick, pack, receive and restock products inside the store. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 344-3964

CONTACT: 247-0097

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24702

24711

R&B COMPUTER #6 SOUTH SIDE PLAZA, FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN

• Repairing cell phones, computers and TV’s.

• Applicant must be honest, reliable and hardworking.

Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 231-0327

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24681

SOMEWHERE CAFE AND LOUNGE IS HIRING

LINE COOKS

- 1 year experience required, able to handle high volume, cook food effectively according to orders, works well in a team environment and speak English. $8-$10 based on experience.

DISHWASHERS

– no experience required, able to handle high volume and maintain a clean station, works well in team environment and speak English. $6.25/hr.

PREP COOKS

– experience preferred, demonstrate some knife skills, able to handle high volume, works well with others and speaks English. $6.25-$8 based on experience.

Turks Islanders only with proof of status APPLY IN PERSON WITH CV AT:

SOMEWHERE CAFE AND LOUNGE CORAL GARDENS RESORT

FRANKLYN VIRGIL East Suburbs, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 241-2238

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder.

24694

24789

GERTRUDE GRANT

SOBEIDA V. GIL VERAS

DOMESTIC WORKER

DOMESTIC WORKER

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 241-3471

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder.

24697

Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for an elder person any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 343-1691

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position Is currently held by a work permit holder.

24696

DOCUWIN ACTING ON BEHALF OF

24687

Millennium Highway- Providenciales, is seeking to employ an

BAPTIST CHURCH OF BEREA

BEHALF OF BARBOS Located at the Somerset Resort - Grace Bay, is seeking to employ a

"EVANGELIST"

"COOK"

- Community Outreach - Support Witnessing Teams & Workshops - Plan Revivals Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: #242-1197 / 232-7077

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour board

- cook food to order following a specific menu - Extensive experience of preparation, cooking and serving of restaurant food - Familiarity with guest service, food handling and storage procedures and sanitation practices Salary : $14.00 hourly

CONTACT: #332-3250

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resumes to the Labour Board. These positions are for first time applicants

24726

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 35

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

*EXECUTIVE CHEF

Lead and ensure food is executed accurately, safely, and tastily. The position ensures the culinary and food/beverage operation meets the brand’s target customer needs, ensures customer satisfaction, focuses on growing revenues, and maximizes the financial performance of the department. This individual manages the kitchen operations by training kitchen personnel and supervise/coordinate all related culinary and food/beverage activities; estimate food consumption and requisition or purchase food; select and develop recipes; standardize production recipes to ensure consistent quality; establish presentation technique and quality standards; plan and price menus; ensure proper equipment operation/maintenance; and ensure proper safety and sanitation in the kitchen.

Previous experience with control food and labor cost, demonstration cooking, menu development, and pricing and development of culinary team preferred.

The ideal candidates will possess a bachelor's degree or related culinary degree with eight or more years of industry and culinary management experience.

Caribbean experience an asset. Salary Range: $70k$ 80k

*FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Oversees daily operations of the restaurant. Directs the activities of restaurant service personnel, Bartenders, Beverage Attendants, Host/Hostess. Resolve customer complaints regarding food service. Train workers in food preparation, and in service, sanitation, and safety procedures. Observe and evaluate workers and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service.

Assign duties, responsibilities, and workstations to employees in accordance with work requirements.

Previous experience working in a multicultural 5 Star property. Extensive wine knowledge. Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software, Opera, Micros POS, Open Table, Timeclock,). Must be fluent in English, Compensation: $25k - $35k per annum

*CHEF DE PARTIE

The Chef de Partie is a direct link between the Executive Chef, Executive Sous Chef, sous chef and his/her assigned production areas and outlets.

His primary responsibilities are to ensure all communication, standards, policies, and expectations are communicated to his/her team and then executed flawlessly. The Chef de Partie enables his/her team by ensuring equipment and sanitation standards are always met, supplies and inventories are readily available, expectations are communicated, recipes are current, and training is on-going. He or She is expected to be a “hands-on” supervisor who leads his/her team by example. The Chef de Partie is assigned to be directly responsible for one or more outlets or production areas in the following categories: production, alternative restaurants, buffets, or main galley. The Chef de Partie should expect to be rotated into different areas with or without advance notice in regards business demands and career development.

Compensation: $20k - $25k per annum

*SERVER/TEAM LEADER

Ensure the highest levels of professionalism are maintained in providing our customers consistent service quality. Ensure the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of Stelle Restaurant and Stelle Bar and Zest Restaurant. Perform major tasks that affect the overall operation of the restaurant. High energy leader with 2 years’ experience in leading a successful fine dining a la carte restaurant, preferably in hotel environment. 5 years’ experience in the food and beverage, culinary and event. Must be computer literate: Must be proficient in Mircos and Microsoft Suite and 5 Years’ experience in food and beverage, culinary and event. Compensation: $6.70 per hour.

*ROOM ATTENDANT

Report directly to the Assist Director of Housekeeping.

Responsible for the overall cleanliness of assigned rooms/suites and provide a pleasant, comfortable experience for guest. Report’s maintenance deficiencies in order to maintain rooms/suites in compliance with standards. Compensation: $6.25 per hour

*WAITRESS/SERVERS

Provide guests with food and beverage service – restaurant, bar, room service, beach & pool. Able to work on feet all day, good math skill, experience in fine dining service an asset. Compensation starts at $6.25 per hour.

*DOMESTIC WORKER

Report directly to the Assist Director of Housekeeping.

To clean and maintain all public areas (i.e. hotel lobby, restrooms) in impeccable condition in accordance Conrad Miami standards and they promote a positive image of the property to guests for a better hotel rating score. Compensation: $6.25 per hour.

*OPERATIONS MANAGER

Operations Manager is responsible for directing, planning, organizing and developing of the overall operation of the Wymara Resort and Villas, to ensure exceptional levels of guest service and satisfaction with cleanliness and comfort of guest facilities.

Maintain outstanding relationships with all Owners and leaders of the resort. Be fully versed on Forbes Service Standards and ensure all these are communicated to all employees.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE/ BE; • Coordinate and manage the day-to-day operations • Ensure all Wymara Resort and Villas Policies and Procedures are developed and implemented • Discuss and explain all rules and regulations as well as rights and obligations for relevant Ownership structure • Discuss and explain budget for all relevant entities • Conduct weekly operations meetings with key stakeholders to discuss operational challenges, opportunities and to improve or maintain an excellent communication flow • Monitor and review the daily labor report and the monthly profit and loss statement, analyze results and initiate improvements

• Manage all third-party contracts.

• Manage and attend Owner/Board/Committee Meetings • Ensure the facilities are well maintained with respect to Housekeeping and Engineering • Oversee preventive maintenance and deep cleaning programs • Respond appropriately in the event of any emergency or safety situation and comply with all local codes and ordinances with a focus on resident and employee safety.

• Personally, meet and interact with owners, review all written owner comments and follow up on any owner service issues or needs • Lead with intellectual and emotional maturity, demonstrating a personal philosophy of life and work habits, practicing consulting supervision and observing ethical business practices.

• Ability to develop, with the aid of key personnel, strategies and programs to ensure attainment of the Resort and Villa goals and objectives.

• Maintain a solid working relationship with the Resort and Villa owners • Display at all times a friendly, courteous and professional manner in dealing with owners, guests and other employees Required Skills: • Ability to perform a myriad of duties with extreme care and attention to detail, while working in a fastpaced and busy environment.

• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Opera PMS and Knowcross.

• Working knowledge of chemicals, fabric care, carpet care, floor and stone care.

• Knowledge of Food and Beverage Operations • Knowledge of Laundry operations, textiles, fabric care, equipment and housekeeping techniques.

• Strong leadership qualities, sound judgment, superior decision-making and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to read and interpret business records and statistical reports.

• Ability to use mathematical skills to interpret financial information and prepare budgets.

• Effective listening abilities.

• Excellent customer service skills.

• Have interpersonal skills to deal effectively with all business contacts.

• Work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays.

• Able to effectively communicate in English, in both written and oral forms.

• Knowledge of a second language is preferred • Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a major hotel/resort complex with a Forbes Five Star Rating & AAA – 5 Diamond Rating • Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a large Housekeeping department of an internationally recognized luxury hotel brand • Pre-opening Experience with proven ability to successfully lead, train motivate, develop staff and processes implementation is essential • University Bachelor's Degree, Tourism and Hospitality Management preferred, or equivalent experience 5-10 years of property operations management.

• Caribbean experience an asset.

Salary Range: $40k-$ 50k

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to Hr@wymararesortandvillas.com

24707

36

March 23-29, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Pfizer, Moderna COVID-19 vaccines highly effective after first shot in realworld use, -U.S. study COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer Inc with BioNTech SE and Moderna Inc reduced risk of infection by 80% two weeks or more after the first of two shots, according to data from a realworld U.S. study released on Monday.

The risk of infection fell 90% by two weeks after the second shot, the study of nearly 4,000 U.S. healthcare personnel and first responders found.

The results validate earlier studies that had indicated the vaccines begin to work soon after a first dose, and confirm that they also prevent asymptomatic infections.

Some countries dealing with limited vaccine supplies have pushed back schedules for second doses

with the hope of getting some protection to more people. U.S. public health officials, however, continue to recommend two doses be given on the schedule authorised by regulators based on clinical trials.

The study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) evaluated the vaccines’ ability to protect against infection, including infections that did not cause symptoms. Previous clinical trials by the companies evaluated their vaccine’s efficacy in preventing illness from COVID-19, but those studies would have missed asymptomatic infections.

The findings from of the real-world use of these messenger RNA (mRNA)

vaccines also confirm the efficacy demonstrated in the large controlled clinical trials conducted before they received emergency use authorizations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The study looked at the effectiveness of the mRNA vaccines among 3,950 participants in six states over a 13-week period from Dec. 14, 2020 to March 13, 2021. About 74% had at least one shot, and tests were conducted weekly to catch any infections without symptoms.

“The authorised mRNA COVID-19 vaccines provided early, substantial real-world protection against infection for our nation’s healthcare personnel, first

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES! The Financial Services Commission (FSC), the regulator of financial services business in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is seeking suitably qualified applicants to fill several vacancies.

Pfizer, Moderna reduce risk of infection by 80% two weeks or more after the first of two shots.

responders, and other frontline essential workers,” CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said in a statement.

The new mRNA technology is a synthetic form of a natural chemical messenger being used to instruct cells to make proteins that mirror part of the novel coronavirus. That teaches the immune system to recognize and attack the actual virus.

The CDC study comes weeks after real-world data from Israel suggested

that the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine was 94% effective in preventing asymptomatic infections.

Britain and Canada were among the countries that have allowed extended gaps between doses of up to three or four months. UK authorities said in January that data supported its decision for a 12-week gap between doses.

Pfizer and its German partner have warned that they had no evidence to

prove that. In their pivotal trials, there was a three-week gap between Pfizer shots and four weeks for the Moderna vaccine.

The CDC said the study results on Monday provide reassurance that people start to develop protection from the vaccine two weeks after their first dose, although the agency reiterated that the greatest protection was seen among those who had received both recommended doses of the vaccines. (Reuters)

GREEN REVOLUTION LTD

RENEWABLE ENERGY INSTALLATION AND DESIGN TECHNICIAN

APPLICATION DEADLINE 6 APRIL 2021

SYSTEMS ENGINEER Department: Information Technology Location: Grand Turk Annual Salary: $51,604 - $63,007 JOB SUMMARY The holder of this position reports directly to the Director of Information Technology.

The Systems Engineer is responsible for planning and designing Windows based infrastructure, virtualization environments and storage networks across the infrastructure.

This includes recommendation, configuration, installation, support and deployment of all server, storage and backup/archive technology including operating systems and management tools and associated software applications supported by the IT Department.

This position is currently held by work permit holder.

Details on the above vacancies can be found on the Commission’s website at https:// tcifsc.tc/vacancies/ or by contacting the Commission at telephone numbers 649-9462550 ext. 4021 or 4048.

Applications should be emailed to administration@tcifsc.tc no later than 6 April 2021. A copy of the application should be submitted to the Employment Services Department by emailing to CHbacchus@gov.tc and MCadams@gov.tc. Applications received after the application deadline may not be considered in this recruitment phase but may be placed on file for future reference. While we appreciate your response, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

24766

• Suitable Candidate should be a fully qualified time served electrician with a minimum of 10years experience.

• Candidate should hold an Advanced qualification in Renewable Energy systems (USSI PV201 or similar).

• Candidate should have hands-on experience of installing grid tied, grid interactive and off-grid renewable energy systems.

• Candidate should have hands on experience of renewable energy systems design.

• Candidate will be responsible for procurement and logistics of delivery of renewable energy systems.

• Candidate will oversee and maintain renewable energy systems.

• Candidate will Review and research alternative new forms of renewable energy, suitable for this market.

• Suitable candidates will be required to perform a mock-up installation of a renewable energy system.

• Candidate will be responsible for liaising with clients and consultants • Candidate should be computer literate and be able to operate word, excel, outlook and other Microsoft office software suite.

BELONGER CANDIDATES SHOULD DELIVER RESUMES TO #2B COURTYARD PLAZA, LEEWARD HIGHWAY TEL: 649-331-1393. EMAIL: MOREINFO@GREENREVOLUTIONLTD.COM STARTING SALARY $1250/WEEK POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.

24776

March 23-29, 2021

37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Long spaceflights and endurance swimming can ‘shrink the heart’ SPENDING very long periods of time in space has something in common with extreme endurance swimming: both can cause the heart to shrink.

That’s the conclusion of a study that compared the effects of astronaut Scott Kelly’s year in space with a marathon swim by athlete Benoît Lecomte.

Both remove the loads on the heart that are usually applied by gravity, causing the organ to atrophy.

Exercise wasn’t enough in either case to counteract the changes to the heart.

The study was led by Dr Benjamin Levine, professor of internal medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and is published in the journal Circulation.

The research has implications for very longduration journeys in space - such as the expeditions to Mars which Nasa plans to mount in coming decades.

“One of the things we’ve learned over many years of study, is that the heart is remarkably plastic. So the heart adapts to the load that’s placed on it,” Professor Levine, who is also director of the Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, a collaboration between UT Southwestern and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, told BBC News.

“In spaceflight, one of the things that happens, is you no longer have to pump blood uphill, because you’re not pumping against gravity.”

Scott Kelly spent 340 days aboard the International

BLUE PARROT

Unit #1 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Cleaning office complex.

• Work hours are Mon-Fri, weekends when call.

• 8am-5pm.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 649-946-4344 ALL RESUMES SHOULD BE SENT VIA EMAIL: INFO@DEMPSEYANDCOMPANY

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24705

The lack of gravity reduced loads on Scott Kelly’s heart, causing it to lose mass.

Space Station (ISS) to allow scientists to study the effects of long-duration flights on the human body.

On 5 June 2018, Benoît Lecomte embarked on an effort to swim the Pacific Ocean, having previously traversed the Atlantic.

He swam 2,821km over 159 days, eventually abandoning the attempt.

Swimming for very long periods also changes the loads placed on the heart by gravity because the person is in a horizontal position rather than vertical.

Lecomte swam an average of 5.8 hours per day, sleeping for around eight hours each night. This meant that he was spending between nine and 17 hours each day in a supine state.

Scientists sometimes use

bed rest studies to simulate spaceflight because lying down eliminates the headto-foot gradient that places a load on the heart. But Prof Levine said water immersion for long periods in a prone position is an even better model for time spent in orbit.

“Now you take away the head-to-foot gradient and then you put the person in the water, so you adjust that gradient too. It’s just about like being in space,” said Prof Levine.

Because both men were no longer pumping blood uphill, as Prof Levine puts it, their hearts began to lose mass.

“When we look at the left ventricle [of the heart] we see about a 20-25% loss in total mass over the four or five months that Mr Lecomte was

SALOMON SHOP

CHANCES GAMING

FIVE CAYS ROAD, FIVE CAYS PROVIDENCIALES Seeks to employ

LABOURER Salary is $6.25 per hour.

Hours of work is 8 hrs. per day and 5 days per week.

Duties include; washing windows, keep yard clean, dispose of trash, clean in and outside of the shop.

PLEASE CONTACT 333-7889 REGARDING EMPLOYMENT. TCI BELONGERS CAN ALSO DROP THEIR RESUMES TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT, PROVIDENCIALES. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

24679

BLUE HILLS RD, PROVO Is seeking to employ a

DOORMAN

• Applicant must be respectful to all clients, honest and willing to work.

• Making sure all clients are sanitized and wearing the right apparel before entering the game room.

Salary: $6.50 hourly CONTACT: 242-1818

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24703

swimming,” said co-author James MacNamara, also from the UT Southwestern Medical Center.

“We saw specifically 19% and 27% of mass lost for Captain Kelly over the year.”

Exercise, however, counteracts the process of mass loss. Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) are already subjected to

an intense exercise regime to mitigate the muscle and bone wastage that also occurs in orbit.

Even so, this exercise regime wasn’t enough to prevent the heart atrophy seen in Captain Kelly.

At the start of the study, researchers had wondered whether the amount of physical exercise Mr Lecomte was doing in the water might be enough to prevent the heart tissue wasting.

“I absolutely thought that Ben’s heart would not atrophy. That’s one of the nice things about science - you learn the most when you find things you didn’t expect,” said Prof Levine.

“It turns out when you swim for that many hours a day, it’s not like Michael Phelps, he’s not swimming as hard as he can.”

Instead, Mr Lecomte kicked his legs relatively lightly throughout. “It’s just not that much activity. Low levels of physical activity do not protect the heart from adapting to the absence of gravity,” said Prof Levine.

The heart adaptations, however, aren’t long-term both men’s hearts returned to

normal once they were back on terra firma.

But chambers in the heart known as the atria expand in space, in part because of changes in the way fluid passes through. This might lead to a condition called atrial fibrillation, where the heart beats fast and in an irregular manner. It can impair exercise, but may also increase the risk of stroke.

There’s also another risk to this vital organ from space travel. The higher radiation levels in space might accelerate coronary heart disease. Astronauts are screened for atherosclerosis, but they are generally middleaged when they go into space and scientists know this is a problem that builds with age.

This is important because suffering a heart attack in space could be catastrophic.

Prof Levine is part of a Nasa programme called Cipher that will send another 10 astronauts into space for long-duration missions. The researchers will subject the crew members’ hearts to a number of different tests and high-tech scanning methods for a more detailed picture of heart function in space.

(BBC)

IS INTERVIEWING FOR

MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEMEN STAFF MAINTENANCE STAFF REQUIREMENTS • Able to perform minor electrical, plumbing, drywall and painting work.

• Strong oral and written English skills • Valid drivers license HOUSEMEN REQUIREMENTS • Outgoing friendly personality • Hotel housekeeping experience • Strong oral and written English skills Drop off resume at hotel or email

tlewin@portsofcallresort.com

24791

38

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

March 23-29, 2021

Coronavirus likely came from animal, not a lab, WHO draft report finds Covid-19 probably came to people through an animal, and likely started spreading no more than a month or two before it was noticed in December of 2019, a World Health Organization draft report finds.

The least likely source: a laboratory leak, the WHO’s joint international team concluded.

WHO is scheduled to release the final report on its investigation into the origins of coronavirus on Tuesday, but a draft version of the report obtained by CNN shows there’s still no smoking gun and no evidence suggesting the virus was spreading any earlier than the very end of 2019.

The report gives four possible sources for the virus and the most likely scenario is via an intermediate animal host, possibly a wild animal captured and then raised on a farm.

But the investigation has not found what other animal was infected by a bat -- considered the most likely original source of the virus -- and then may have transmitted it to a human. “The possible intermediate host of SARS-CoV-2 remains elusive,” it reads.

Next likely is direct transmission from one of the animals known to

Genomic testing of the virus indicates it was not engineered in a lab but passed naturally from animals.

carry a similar coronavirus, such as a bat or a pangolin. Possible but not probable is transmission from frozen or chilled food, and least likely is an accidental laboratory release, the report finds.

Former US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Robert Redfield told CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta that his personal opinion was the virus was released from a lab.

The report says this is “extremely unlikely.” “There is no record of viruses closely related to SARS-CoV-2 in any laboratory before December 2019, or genomes that in combination could provide a SARS-CoV-2 genome,” it reads. “In view of the above, a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely.”

Independent researchers have

been saying this for months.

Genomic testing of the virus indicates it was not engineered in a lab but passed naturally from animals -- as did the SARS virus that infected 8,000 people globally in 2002-2004 before it was stopped.

Frozen food is also not a likely source, the report indicates. “There is no conclusive evidence for foodborne transmission of SARSCoV-2 and the probability of a cold-chain contamination with the virus from a reservoir is very low,” it says.

The role of the Huanan seafood market in Wuhan is also unclear.

It’s possible the market was not the original source of the outbreak, but that the crowds that gathered at the market -- which was densely packed, with a roof and open sewers -- may have amplified the spread of the virus.

Sampling at the market turned up the virus on surfaces but not in samples taken from animals or food sold at the market. Plus, there is evidence the virus was circulating before the Huanan market outbreak -- including at other markets.

“Many of the early cases were associated with the Huanan market, but a similar number of cases were associated with other markets and

some were not associated with any markets. Transmission within the wider community in December could account for cases not associated with the Huanan market which, together with the presence of early cases not associated with that market, could suggest that the Huanan market was not the original source of the outbreak,” the report added.

“No firm conclusion therefore about the role of the Huanan market in the origin of the outbreak, or how the infection was introduced into the market, can currently be drawn,” the report concludes.

The report recommends more testing of blood samples taken and stored before the first outbreak in December, more testing of animals from Southeast Asia, and more indepth study of mass gatherings that could have aided the spread of the virus.

The report was written by a joint international team made up of 17 Chinese experts plus 17 experts from other countries, WHO, the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) participated as an observer. (CNN)

Asteroid Apophis won’t impact Earth for at least a century, NASA finds AN ASTEROID named for the Egyptian god of chaos and darkness won’t be wreaking any havoc on Earth -- at least not this century. That’s the good news from NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, released on Friday.

Asteroid 99942 Apophis has been considered one of the most hazardous asteroids with the potential to impact Earth since its discovery in 2004. Now, scientists have revised that opinion after a precise analysis of the asteroid’s orbit.

Previous predictions noted that the 1,110-foot-wide asteroid might be too close for comfort in 2029, 2036, and it could have a slight chance of impacting Earth in 2068.

It recently passed within 10 million miles of Earth on March 5.

During that distant flyby, astronomers used radar observations to get a better handle on the asteroid’s orbit around the sun. Their results allowed them to rule out any risk of the asteroid impacting Earth in 2068. The previous concerns about 2029 and

2036 had already been put aside due to prediction refinements and research.

“A 2068 impact is not in the realm of possibility anymore, and our calculations don’t show any impact risk for at least the next 100 years,” said Davide Farnocchia, navigation engineer and researcher at NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), in a statement.

“With the support of recent optical observations and additional radar observations, the uncertainty in Apophis’ orbit has collapsed from hundreds of kilometers to just a handful of kilometers when projected to 2029,” Farnocchia said. “This greatly improved knowledge of its position in 2029 provides more certainty of its future motion, so we can now remove Apophis from the risk list.”

The CNEOS Center maintains a risk list, tracking asteroids with orbits that bring them close to Earth -- close enough to cause concern over a potential impact.

Scientists at the center use radar

and telescopes to study near-Earth objects and understand the dangers they may pose to the planet.

The European Space Agency’s Near-Earth Object Coordination Centre also has removed the asteroid from its risk list.

The CNEOS Center is managed

by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California.

In order to observe Apophis and remove it from the risk list, astronomers used the Deep Space Network’s Goldstone radio antenna near Barstow, California.

This dish is one of three around the globe that enable communications with spacecraft across deep space. Scientists also relied on a collaboration with the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia.

“Although Apophis made a recent close approach with Earth, it was still nearly 10.6 million miles away,” said Marina Brozovic, a scientist at JPL, in a statement.

“Even so, we were able to acquire incredibly precise information about its distance to an accuracy of about 150 meters (490 feet). This

Asteroid 99942 Apophis has been considered one of the most hazardous asteroids with the potential to impact Earth since its discovery in 2004.

campaign not only helped us rule out any impact risk, it set us up for a wonderful science opportunity.”

While the images seem fuzzy, the resolution is quite strong considering the asteroid was about 17 million miles away, or 44 times the distance between Earth and the moon, at the time.

“If we had binoculars as

powerful as this radar, we would be able to sit in Los Angeles and read a dinner menu at a restaurant in New York,” Brozovic said.

The data from this observation will help scientists learn more about the asteroid’s shape and rotation rate. The current belief is that Apophis is shaped like a peanut.

March 23-29, 2021

39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Champions League 2024: Decision on new format with 10-match first phase delayed

Westbrook’s triple-double was the 162nd of his career.

NBA: Russell Westbrook makes historic triple-double for Washington Wizards RUSSELL Westbrook made an historic triple-double to power the Washington Wizards to a 132-124 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Monday.

He made 35 points, 14 rebounds and 21 assists - the first NBA triple-double to top 35 points and 20 assists.

A triple-double is achieved when a player makes double-digit totals in three statistical categories.

Only Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson had previously achieved the feat with 30 points, 10 rebounds and 20 assists.

“I take pride as a leader in making my team-mates better,” said Westbrook, who now has a

record 16 triple-doubles for the Wizards in only 38 games.

The Brooklyn Nets’ James Harden also made a triple-double on Monday as his side beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 112-107.

He scored 38 points, passed for 13 assists and pulled down 11 rebounds while Kyrie Irving added 27 points on his return after a threegame absence.

Western Conference leaders the Utah Jazz moved to 35-11 for the season by thrashing the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-75.

The Los Angeles Clippers extended their winning run to six games by the beating Milwaukee Bucks 129-105. (BBC)

A DECISION on a planned new Champions League format, with a 10-match first phase from 2024, has been delayed.

The proposal, which has been under discussion for almost two years, had been expected to be signed off by Uefa’s executive committee on Wednesday but has been pushed back to 19 April.

Under the new format, the current group phase would be scrapped.

In its place, the number of qualifiers will be expanded from 32 to 36, with space for two ‘wild card’ entries.

The wild cards will be reserved for clubs with the highest Uefa coefficient - points used to rank clubs based on past European success - who have not qualified for the competition through their league position.

If the format was being used now, based on the current table it would mean Liverpool would gain a Champions League spot despite being seventh in the Premier League.

Sources say there are no major stumbling blocks that cannot be overcome, and rumoured arguments over commercial deals are incorrect.

However, it is known that within the major clubs there is disquiet over the corporate governance of the European competitions.

Bayern Munich beat Paris St-Germain to win their sixth Champions League title in 2020.

In addition, clubs are aware of the external opposition to the new format, specifically the two wild cards that are planned to be given to the highest ranking clubs who do not qualify for the Champions League.

There has been opposition to the plans, in particular from the European Leagues organisation, who said it would create a “de facto closed shop”.

However, Uefa officials and representatives from the European Club Association have backed the

new arrangement, which former Manchester United keeper and current Ajax chief executive Edwin van der Sar is credited with suggesting.

Under the new format, each team will play 10 matches against opponents varying in strength, with the results forming an overall league table.

Those in the highest eight positions will move on to the knockout phase, with those from ninth to 24th going into a play-off round.

Aguero to leave Manchester City at end of season Record goalscorer Sergio Aguero will leave Manchester City at the end of the season, the club has announced.

The 32-year-old striker’s contract expires at the end of the season and he has been told it will not be renewed.

The Argentine, who signed from Atletico Madrid in 2011, has scored 257 goals in 384 appearances for the club.

“With the guidance of the owners and the contributions of many players, we earned a place among the greatest of the world,” Aguero said.

He will be honoured by a statue at Etihad Stadium, alongside titlewinning captain Vincent Kompany and influential playmaker David Silva, who left the club in 2019 and 2020 respectively.

The trio played leading roles in City’s renaissance, with Aguero famously scoring the injury-time winner against QPR in 2012 which clinched the club’s first English

The 32-year-old striker’s contract expires at the end of the season and he has been told it will not be renewed.

title in 44 years.

Since then, the striker has helped City win three more Premier League titles, one FA Cup and five League Cups.

“Sergio’s contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated,” City

chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said.

“His legend will be indelibly etched into the memories of everyone who loves the club and maybe even in those who simply love football.”

‘A new stage with new

challenges will begin’ - what now for Aguero?

Aguero has played a peripheral role this season, in part because of injury and illness, as City chase a quadruple of Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup. In 14 appearances, of which he has started nine games, Aguero has scored three goals.

However, former City defender Micah Richards - who won the title alongside Aguero in the 2011-12 season - thinks the Argentine still has a lot to offer.

“Unless you get [Kylian] Mbappe, [Erling Braut] Haaland or [Harry] Kane, what striker are you going to get to replace him?

You get another year out of him,” Richards told BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club.

“We don’t know the full details - he might want to leave. But if he is being forced out, that’s another story.”

Aguero has been linked to

several of Europe’s top clubs in recent months, with his contract running down and an exit looking likely before being confirmed on Monday.

Spanish giants Barcelona are reported to be potential suitors, with French champions Paris StGermain, plus Italian duo Juventus and Inter Milan, also credited with interest.

Last week, Chelsea were said to be monitoring Aguero’s situation and ready to move if the Argentine decided to stay in the Premier League.

“I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans,” Aguero added in a statement announcing his exit.

“Then, a new stage with new challenges will begin and I am fully ready to face them with the same passion and professionalism that I have always dedicated to continue at the highest level.”

(BBC)

40

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

Hamilton wins Bahrain Grand Prix after Verstappen forced to give up lead MERCEDES Lewis Hamilton held off Max Verstappen’s Red Bull for victory in an extraordinary finish to the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Verstappen actually took the lead from Hamilton with four laps to go but handed the position back because he had overtaken by running off the track.

The move - an order from race control - cost the Red Bull driver the victory. Verstappen never quite got close enough again to challenge Hamilton.

It was a remarkable climax to a tense and thrilling strategic battle that bodes well for an epic season between the two men.

Verstappen complained over the radio about being ordered by his team to hand the lead back, but was told they had no choice.

The drivers had been referred by the race director before the race to a rule that says they cannot not leave the track and gain a lasting advantage, and that officials can give them the “opportunity to give back the whole of any advantage gained by leaving the track”.

WHAT A RACE TO OPEN A POTENTIALLY THRILLING SEASON It was a brutal end to the race for Verstappen, who had taken a dominant pole position and had looked to have pulled off a great comeback drive for victory.

Lewandowski won the German league and cup double last season plus the Champions League with Bayern Munich.

Max Verstappen was told to hand the lead back to Hamilton.

But both men drove brilliantly, as Mercedes and Red Bull fought a strategic battle for superiority in one of the most gripping races for some time.

Verstappen converted his pole into a lead at the start, but Hamilton moved in front when Mercedes stopped him earlier to go for the so-called undercut, when a driver pits to gain from the speed benefit of fresher tyres.

That gave Hamilton track position, and he kept it through his second pit stop.

Red Bull decided to run Verstappen 11 laps longer to give him a tyre advantage at the end of the race, and he stopped with 18 laps to go, setting up a grandstand finish.

Hamilton had to measure his pace to hold Verstappen for as long as possible while also keeping his tyres in decent shape for the inevitable battle in the closing laps.

Verstappen was on Hamilton’s tail with five laps to go, and passed him a lap later around the outside at Turn Four.

It looked to be a superb move to clinch what would have been a deserving victory and an emphasis that Red Bull had the fastest car this weekend.

But a flick of oversteer as he went around Hamilton took him wide, and he broke the rule that said drivers had to stay the right side of the exit kerb on the outside of the corner.

Poland striker Lewandowski out of World Cup qualifier against England POLAND striker Robert Lewandowski will miss Wednesday’s 2022 World Cup qualifier against England at Wembley with a knee injury.

The 32-year-old Bayern Munich player limped off during Sunday’s 3-0 win over Andorra after scoring two goals.

Meanwhile, midfielder Grzegorz Krychowiak and defender Kamil Piatkowski have tested positive for coronavirus.

The rest of the squad has tested negative for the virus, Poland say.

Two other members of Poland’s squad, goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski and Leeds midfielder

Mateusz Klich, tested positive last week.

The Polish FA have queried the positive result for former West Brom midfielder Krychowiak and have approached Uefa to request a new test.

Lewandowski, whose injury was confirmed on Monday, faces a race to be fit for Bayern’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Paris St-Germain in nine days’ time.

The Polish FA said he faces up to 10 days out with ligament damage.

He has returned to Germany for further treatment on the injury.

(BBC)

GB Marathon Trials: Chris Thompson and Stephanie Davis take Tokyo Olympics spots CHRIS Thompson and Stephanie Davis qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with victory in the Great Britain marathon trials.

Thompson, 39, finished the Kew Gardens course in two hours 10 mins 50 seconds, 40 seconds inside the qualifying time.

Davis, 30, was the only woman to finish inside the qualifying time, winning in a personal best of 2:27:16.

Ben Connor, 28, will also be in Tokyo after finishing second, having set the qualifying standard in a previous race.

Scotland’s Callum Hawkins, 28, had already secured a spot in the delayed Games this summer and was only on pacemaking duties in London.

Natasha Cockram finished second in the women’s race but was 30 seconds off the qualifying time of 2:29:30.

To qualify for Tokyo, those competing on Friday had to finish inside the top two and have beaten

the Olympic qualifying times at any point from January 2019 onwards.

Thompson, who will turn 40 in April, was dropped by the leading trio of Connor, Mo Aadan and Dewi Griffiths by the 30km mark but surged back to regain his place at the front.

Griffiths then dropped back, before Thompson left Connor and Aadan, who finished third, behind, taking a healthy lead into the last lap.

Thompson, whose son Theo was born earlier this week, had time to celebrate, clenching his fists and yelling as he crossed the line to qualify for his second Olympics - having run the 10,000m on the track at London 2012.

“This week has knocked me for six, I’ve been trying to hold it together, but I’ve never felt so much emotion in my life,” Thompson, who won European 10,000m silver in 2010, told BBC Sport.

“After 30 minutes I worked the course out and knew I needed to check back, because those guys

Chris Thompson will be 40 by the time the Tokyo Olympics start, while Stephanie Davis only ran her first marathon three years ago.

needed to be in very good shape to keep up that time.

“After one hour 30 minutes I thought, ‘I’ve messed this up royally or it will turn around quickly’ and then in the last two laps I knew nothing was stopping me.

“I’m 39 for crying out loud - this doesn’t happen.”

Davis, who had already beaten the qualifying time in Valencia in 2019 having only run her first marathon in 2018, took an emphatic victory, surging clear of the rest of the field after the halfway mark.

“I can’t believe it, I’m smiling so much, I’m so delighted,” she said.

“I knew I was in good shape but anything can happen in the marathon and you can’t just rely on it being your day.”

Rosie Edwards finished third in 2:31:56, just in front of Rebecca Gentry, who works as a fitness instructor for home workout company Peloton, in 2:32:01 - five minutes quicker than her previous personal best.

In the men’s 20km walk, Callum Wilkinson beat Tom Bosworth to win the race, but failed to go under the Olympic qualifying time of 1:21:00.

Wilkinson, 24, finished in 1:22:47, but has several more attempts to beat the mark coming up.

Bosworth, who finished sixth in the Rio 2016 Olympics, had already beaten the qualifying time in a previous race so his secondplace finish secured the 31-yearold a spot at Tokyo.

March 23-29, 2021

Sports Interational

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Golfer Niemann helps raise $2.1 million to save his infant cousin’s life SINCE announcing himself on the world stage with a PGA Tour victory as a rookie in 2019, Chile’s Joaquin Niemann has established himself as one of golf’s most exciting prospects.

It’s been a whirlwind six months on the course for the Santiago native and a series of outstanding results have seen the 22-year-old break into the world’s top-30 for the first time.

It’s events at home in Chile, however, that will define this past year for Niemann.

“My cousin was born in October and in the beginning, it was amazing,” Niemann tells CNN Living Golf’s Shane O’Donoghue.

However, joyful video calls home to celebrate the arrival of a new family member were short lived.

“After a couple of weeks, we found out that he had a really rare disease ... in the beginning, we had no idea what it was and over time, we figured out that it was bad.”

Niemann’s new-born cousin, Rafita Calderon, had been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare inherited disorder stemming from a defective gene that leads to the death of nerve cells responsible for moving muscles that allow us to walk, talk, breathe and swallow, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Calderon required a one-time intravenous shot of the gene therapy medicine Zolgensma, labeled “the world’s most expensive drug.”

As many as 1 in 8,000 babies is estimated to be affected by one of the genetic mutations that causes it. That includes about 450 to 500 infants in the US per year, according to a Novartis -- the

recent months. However, with a series of excellent performances to start the 2021 season including a second place at The Tournament of Champions in January, he’s in the form of his life and has achieved a career-high ranking of 28.

Niemann plays his shot from the tenth tee during the second round of The Honda Classic.

parent company which markets Zolgensma -- statement.

The treatment works by replacing a working copy of the defective gene into the nerve cells before they die and symptoms develop.

“We started getting really worried about it and a little desperate because the only medicine and the only cure to help him live for more than two years would cost $2.1 million -- we were going out of our minds,” explains Niemann.

“In the beginning we were like: ‘Oh my god, how are we going to do this? How are we going to get the money? Because if we don’t, he’s going to die.’”

With Calderon’s father leading the fundraising efforts in Chile, the country’s best-known golfer set about doing everything he could from his home away from home, the PGA Tour.

“Rafita started getting a lot of attention on social media in Chile and they made a lot of money, but

it still wasn’t enough, so I decided to start donating money during golf tournaments,” says Niemann.

Initially donating $5,000 per birdie and $10,000 per eagle on top of the $152,450 he earned at the RSM Classic in November, by the time December’s Mayakoba Classic rolled around, news of Niemann’s fundraising efforts had spread and fellow tour pros including the likes of Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler could be seen sporting white ribbons in support of the cause.

“To get so much support from the PGA Tour, from the players and on social media was amazing.

Now we’re in March and we got the medicine a month ago, it feels amazing to achieve something like that,” said Niemann.

“With one shot he can create the protein to get muscles, he’s doing a lot better now and he can move ... so hopefully he’ll be alright,” he says.

With thoughts elsewhere, Niemann could have been forgiven for losing focus on his game in

FOLLOWING HIS OWN PATH Growing up in a country where football rules, it’s been an unlikely journey for the Chilean, but one he looks back on fondly “I started playing when I was probably around two or three years-old ... I had three plastic clubs that I would carry around my house all the time, I could barely walk and I was swinging these clubs,” he laughs.

It didn’t take long for Niemann’s natural talent to catch the attention of the Chilean Golf Federation and he earned a scholarship to the prestigious Athletic Study Centre in Santiago.

“There were a lot of soccer players, tennis players and I would only have school for around three hours from 8 a.m’-11 a.m. ... After that, I was just going to the golf course to play, I think that was the time where I got really good.”

Niemann was soon earning invites to play overseas and began to rack up wins, reaching the top of the world amateur rankings in May 2017, a position he would hold for 44 weeks until he turned professional in 2018.

Walking into a PGA Tour locker room at the age of 19 could be a daunting prospect for any young player. Fortunately for Niemann, he shared an agent with Sergio Garcia, one of the most respected veterans on Tour and a Masters winner, who went out of his way to help the youngster settle in.

“In the beginning I was feeling a little weird, I didn’t know where the locker room was, I didn’t know where the tee-box was, where to register, I didn’t know anything ...

He helped me a lot, getting in to practice rounds, getting to know more of the professional guys ...

I was a little bit scared of being professional but he made it feel more friendly,” Niemann explains.

With the support of Garcia, it wasn’t long before the Chilean began to hit his stride. He earned an outstanding win in his rookie season in 2020, claiming the Greenbrier Classic by a remarkable six shots to become the youngest international winner on the PGA Tour since 1923.

With the 22-year-old now playing some of the best golf of his career, many are tipping the youngster to kick on and add to his PGA Tour win cabinet this season.

One tournament in particular this year stands out for the Chilean, who, like most of his compatriots, has an enormous sense of pride in his homeland.

“The Olympics, for me being from Chile is big. I don’t think everybody in golf looks at it the same way as I do, being from a small country, it would be huge for Chile to have a golf medal “Having the opportunity to play in the Olympics and being able to win a gold medal would be a dream come true for me and my country,” he explains.

‘Chi, chi, chi, le, le, le, viva Chile!’ is a chant that has historically been reserved for the formidable national football team.

With the entire country behind him and his star continuing to rise, don’t be surprised if this becomes the soundtrack to many a PGA Tour Sunday in the future. (CNN)

England second row Maro Itoje backs ‘phenomenal’ captain Owen Farrell MARO Itoje says that England and Saracens team-mate Owen Farrell is a “phenomenal” captain who brings out the best in those around him.

Farrell has come under pressure after England finished fifth in the Six Nations, suffering defeats by Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

“I have known him since I was 11 and been fortunate to be very close to him,” said Itoje.

“I am fully 100% behind Owen.

He’s a great player, friend and captain.”

Itoje added: “I have seen how he operates, how he thinks, gets

the best out of himself and how he motivates people around him.

“I think he is a phenomenal captain. If you look at what he has done with England and with Saracens, he has led the team to some brilliant things.”

Itoje has been mentioned as a potential candidate to take on the role should Farrell, who head coach Eddie Jones has said is still ‘learning’ about captaincy, be replaced.

However the second row, 26, said he was unsure who took on captaincy duties when Farrell was

forced off with a head knock in the 55th minute of the 32-18 defeat by Ireland on 20 March.

“Erm…Good question,” he replied when asked who stood in during Farrell’s absence.

“I am not even too sure, if I am going to be honest with you. There was a bit of chatter, but, hand on my heart, I can’t give you a definitive answer.”

Itoje, who lifted the world junior title as England under-20s captain in 2014, is philosophical about his own prospects of one day leading his country at senior level.

Owen Farrell and Maro Itoje have played for the same school, club and national team.

“If you are clamouring to be captain or campaigning to be that is not the right thing to do,” he added. “You are wanting it for

selfish reasons.

“If that happens, it happens. It is not something that keeps me up at night.” (BBC)

42

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021

Marrucci appointed as associate head coach of TCIFA beach soccer team ITALIAN coach, Matteo Marrucci has been officially appointed as associate head coach of the Turks and Caicos national beach soccer team.

The new coach brings with him a wealth of experience, including a three-year stint with Germany’s national side.

According to information from beachsoccer.com, Marrucci is scheduled to travel to Provo in the last week of April to start a three-week preparation for the team ahead of the CONCACAF Beach Soccer 2021 Championship, which kicks off in Costa Rica on 17 May. HAPPY FOR THE OPPORTUNITY The 37-year-old said he was

elated with the opportunity.

“I am really happy with this opportunity and very thankful to the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association for their confidence. I am sure I will have a great experience and I will make the most of it, especially because it means a great opportunity to compete again after the lockdown.”

Although qualifying for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Russia 2021 posed a huge challenge, Marrucci doesn’t want to rule anything out. “Our objective is to improve the squad and to give good performances in Costa Rica.

“The team have been playing together for a long time now since they made their debut on the international stage six years ago, and I am sure they will be in good shape, as they keep competing on

TCIFA recently received masks and hand sanitizers from the TCI National Health Insurance Board.

The Italian coach will lead the Caribbean side in the upcoming CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship.

an international scale. Now, our job is to have an intensive training schedule and make the most of our quality to perform at the maximum level in Costa Rica”.

Despite having spent his

coaching career in Europe, where he coached Pisa Beach Soccer Club and The Netherlands before joining Die Mannschaft in 2017, Marrucci has good knowledge of the CONCACAF beach soccer

scene, as he had an experience as Angelo Schirinzi’s assistant coach for the Bahamas before the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in 2017. (Excerpts from Beach Soccer.com)

The South Caicos players, who will compete in the camp.

(TCIFA South Caicos photo)

TCIFA Girls and Boys U15 teams set for Port St. Lucie camp THE Turks and Caicos Football Association (TCIFA) Girls and Boys U15 teams were scheduled to travel to Port St. Lucie, Florida

this weekend to take part in a national team training camp.

The camp is billed to take place from April 1-9. The players from

the various islands had assembled in Provo before leaving.

A total of six female players and two males had journeyed from South

Caicos last Saturday for the camp.

Meanwhile, in an effort to keep our junior players safe, the Turks and Caicos National

Health Insurance Board made a recent donation of masks and hand sanitizers to the FA for the travelling youngsters to use.

March 23-29, 2021

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

43

St Lucia drop out of Qualifying Campaign of the 2022 World Cup – TCI had hopes of a victory THE Turks and Caicos Islands hope of getting a win in the Qualifying Campaign of the 2022 World Cup was placed in jeopardy after St Lucia, the lowest-ranked team in the group, barring the TCI, opted to drop out.

Information from the Caribbean island indicates that the decision to drop out came from the FA and players and even the government were shocked.

With the COVID-19 pandemic hampering training and overall preparation of the teams, the TCI side was hoping that they would have been able to work out their kinks before their June clash with the side.

St Lucia are ranked 176, while TCI are ranked 203.

The other teams are ranked

lower, including Nicaragua, who we suffered an opening defeat to on Saturday last.

In that game, we went down 7-0.

We were however missing several of our starters.

Captain of the side, Billy Forbes said the absence of the starters hindered our team’s efficiency.

“The first game was a bit hard.

We play without Marco, Herby and Belbwa, so 3 of our main starters were missing. So we got beat.”

Forbes was hoping for a better performance against Belize, but that game had not started up to press time.

Prior to travelling to the Dominican Republic, where our first-leg games are being held, National Coach Omar Edwards

Billy Forbes (right) and Fred Dorvil are with the national team.

had said that though the senior team would miss a few players, he was hopeful of a good performance in the DR. “The coaches have given players individual programmes to do on their own, because of the

restriction on contact training.”

Edwards was hoping that the side could have gelled in the 12 days of training prior to their clash.

“My expectations are for the lads to represent to their best of their

Sauver registers season best in 100M and 200M HELCY-ANN Sauver registered a pair of season-best performances when she competed at the USC Weems Baskin Meet, which attracted some of the SEC and ACC schools over the weekend.

The event also got an NCAA provisional qualifier.

The Turks and Caicos national sprinter finished 11th overall in the 100M in a time of 12.17s and 22nd in the 200M with a time of 25.44s.

She then anchored the Women’s 4X100M relay team to an overall 8th position, in a field of top-flight division one teams, with a time of 47.31s.

The Benedict Tigers relay team

are currently ranked first in the SIAC division.

Sauver said that despite the finish, against some quality opponents, she felt good during the races. She however did pick up an injury, but claimed that it was minor.

“My lower hamstring started to give a little discomfort before and after the 4x100M.” The 23-year-old was asked to stay away from the track for a few days and to do rehabilitation work.

She is next scheduled to compete on April 10 and is confident that she will be 100% for that meet.

Helcy-Ann Sauver ran three races at the meet.

abilities. And make the country proud at the end of the games.”

He had said that the team’s strengths are“containing and counter-attacking”.

After Belize, TCI will face Haiti in June in their next clash.

44

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 23-29, 2021