Turks & Caicos Weekly News March 2 - 8, 2020

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Director of Public Prosecution, Eugene Otuonye QC, filed fresh charges against seven accused of corruption during the Michael Misick administration on Tuesday, March 2.

PROTESTORS CALL FOR END OF SIPT CASE

FIRST CASE OF THE UK VARIANT OF COVID-19 IDENTIFIED IN TCI PAGE  4

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FIELD HOSPITAL ON ITS WAY AS TCI HOSPITAL HITS 150% CAPACITY

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PREMIER PROMISES $1,000 RELIEF GRANT TO ALL CITIZENS BEFORE APRIL PAGE  9

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Investment Guide to Real Estate in the Turks and Caicos Islands

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March 2-8, 2021

Premier asks citizens to unite for a better TCI

BY OLIVIA ROSE Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick has called on the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands to unite for a “better and more prosperous” nation.

“The election is over and the battle for the mind of the people of these Islands have been settled for now,” he said at the swearing in of the Cabinet on Wednesday, February 24.

Misick, who has pledged to “turbo-charge” the economy, said people must be at the centre of development as he urged residents to work together for betterment of the territory.

“I want us to think in terms of Team Turks and Caicos Islands,” he said, “and I call on every Turks and Caicos Islander to join with us and become part of the promise for a better and more prosperous ‘beautiful by nature’ TCI. “Together, if we do this, we will rise, we will strive and we will prosper and together I believe we owe the TCI a duty to do just that.”

The new premier, whose Government secured a landslide win at the 2021 polls, said: “We have said that no developments in this country will be green-lighted if we believe that they are not in the interest of the people of these Turks and Caicos Islands.

“The last 50 years of development in this country has, to some extent, been at the expense of the people of these islands and the next 50 years have to be different.

“That’s a pledge we make, and that’s a pledge that we intend to keep.

“We believe that our innovative

Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick at the swearing in of the Cabinet (TCI Government)

policies and programmes and your support will make the Turks and Caicos Islands unstoppable.”

As the territory battles a devastating pandemic which has resulted in massive job losses and business closures, Misick said his Government is aware of its obligation.

“As we celebrate our victory we are also mindful of our responsibility to honour the faith and trust that you have reposed in us.

“You have given us a mandate to work on your behalf to empower you and to build the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“As premier, I give you my word that we will work hard to deliver on every promise we made in our contract with the people and

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

that task will not be easy,” he said.

Misick emphasised that tackling the pandemic will require an all hands on deck approach.

“We must therefore tackle

Covid-19 together,” he said.

“Covid-19 has taken a severe toll on our people and has ravaged our economy and we can see the evidence everywhere; increase in

poverty, unemployment worsening standard of living.”

He added: “We don’t take the victory lightly, we believe it is as much repose of trust, as it is a cry for help and an indication of the pain that the public is feeling.”

The new Government will be responsible for distributing the coronavirus vaccine in an efficient and equitable way.

After that, it will focus on the societal and economic disruptions caused by the pandemic.

“We are committed to turbocharge the economy to create jobs, especially for young people, to cut the cost of living, to provide quality healthcare and education, to invest in agriculture for food security and infrastructure development as well and critical to protect the environment and to create a more secured Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Governor Nigel Dakin swore in the new slate of Cabinet members during a live streamed ceremony at the Premier’s Office in Providenciales on Wednesday, February 24.

The 1,500 foot pipeline replaces an aging installation believed to be more than 30 years old (FortisTCI)

Grand Turk gets new 1,500 foot fuel pipeline A 30-year-old 1,500-foot fuel pipeline that transfers fuel from tankers to FortisTCI to generate and deliver electricity in Grand Turk has been replaced with a brand new one.

The power company completed the $750,000 project this year after following the highest environmental standards, it said in a press release on Wednesday, February 24.

The old pipeline was decommissioned in 2019, and since then fuel has been transferred above ground under guidance of the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources.

Construction for the new pipeline began in 2020 and had minor delays

due to the coronavirus pandemic, but is now complete.

Delton Jones, director of the Ports Authority, said: “The new pipeline replaces a regime where fuel was transferred using hoses, which floated on the sea.

“This had inherent environmental and safety risks. The new pipeline is a win-win and a good example of a mutually beneficial public and private sector collaboration.”

Alvejes Desir, FortisTCI director of energy production, was the project lead, supported by international contractors Cape Caribbean and local contractors Rolle Construction.

Ruth Forbes, FortisTCI president

and CEO, said: “I want to commend project leader Alvejes Desir and the project team who worked to finalise the new pipeline installation.”

She said that having a secure method for fuel delivery in Grand Turk means that FortisTCI can continue to provide residents with the reliable electricity they have come to expect.

“And being an ISO 14001 and 45001 certified operation, we live by a code of safety always and protecting our environment in all facets while carrying out our day-today duties. “Replacing the pipeline represents our commitment to serving our customers with a safe, high quality and reliable service.”

March 2-8, 2021

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Second ‘streamlined’ SIPT trial on the horizon

BY DELANA ISLES

Director of Public Prosecution, Eugene Otuonye QC, filed fresh charges against seven accused of corruption during the Michael Misick administration on Tuesday, March 2.

The new “streamlined” charges, which had not been made public at time of press, are to be used in a second trial following the official end of the five-year long SIPT led trial.

“A retrial of this matter is absolutely in the public interest, so that the defendants and the alleged victims, the TCI and its people, can benefit from a verdict in this case,” the DPP said this week.

The original trial, presided over by the now deceased Justice Paul Harrison, was officially declared over by Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang during a hearing of the case on Monday.

The court sat to hear from the DPP what his office intended to do with the eight defendants engaged in the five-year long trial.

Queen’s Counsel, Andrew Mitchell - lead prosecutor in the trial - presented the court with the DPP’s decisions on the matter.

Importantly, a new trial will see a distinct lessening of the charges in the information-burdened trial, he said.

Mitchell explained that Lisa Hall - wife of the former deputy premier and corruption accused Floyd Hall - has been freed of two money laundering charges.

And the charges against Earlson

Robinson - which were severed from the main trial - have also been abandoned.

Robinson is the brother of Lillian Boyce who recently pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office on January 14 and is repaying a $1 million judgement.

This now means that the remaining accused are Michael Misick, Floyd Hall, McAllister Hanchell, Thomas Misick, Jeffrey Hall, Clayton Greene and Melbourne Wilson.

According to Prosecutor Mitchell the new trial will be presented in a different way that is streamlined to reduce cost and time - in terms of scope and size.

A statement from the DPP on Monday afternoon further explained the new charges being laid.

He said: “The allegations to be tried will be the subject of either substantive counts of bribery or single subject conspiracies to defraud.”

Otuonye stated that there will also be counts alleging money laundering against the attorneys, except for Melbourne Wilson who will continue to be prosecuted for his role in relation to the North West Point Crown land disposal.

In addition, he said, the allegation relating to the PNP will be limited to a conspiracy to launder money.

“Pursuant to the order of court today, new information reflecting these streamlined counts will be filed tomorrow [Tuesday] morning.”

Director of Public Prosecution, Eugene Otuonye QC, said the new charges will be “streamlined”

The DPP is also seeking a second trial without a jury, and will be filing its application for this with the court this week.

Defence lawyers were against the DPP being granted more time to file the new charges given the strict time limit imposed on them by chief justice last week.

When their arguments failed to persuade the judge, they urged her to set a very strict timeline for the DPP to abide by in terms of getting their information to the court.

The defence will also be making arguments to the court of abuse of process and infringement on the constitutional rights of the

defendants, as well as arguments against the prosecution’s application for another trial without a jury.

RETRIAL IS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST In his statement to the press on Monday, Otuonye reminded that his office has the sole authority to determine whether to bring and or continue proceedings.

He said he does so guided by the Prosecution Policy published under section 100(6) of the TCI Constitution.

The DPP, who took up his appointment in January 2020, said since that time he has had the case

under review.

He noted that in reaching his decision to conduct a new trial, he has given consideration to the representations made by the defence counsels in light of Justice Paul Harrison’s death and to the relevant and appropriate factors set out in the prosecution policy.

The DPP said this includes the nature and seriousness of the allegations, the period of time the alleged offending spanned, which was over a number of years; the impact on TCI community, including loss of public funds and resources for private gains and the established prima facie culpability of the defendants.

He added: “I noted that the actual sitting time during the first trial amounting to less than 45 percent of the available sitting days and this was relevant to the reasonable time guaranteed from the DPP’s perspective.

“Although, under the policy, cost alone should not be the ground for discontinuing a prosecution, I did take it into account as a relevant factor in my overall assessment of the public interest factors.”

The DPP stated that having given due consideration to these factors, he concluded that both the evidential and public interest stages of the prosecution policy are satisfied.

He said: “A retrial of this matter is absolutely in the public interest, so that the defendants and the alleged victims, the TCI and its people, can benefit from a verdict in this case.”

First case of the UK variant of Covid-19 identified in TCI One of four positive samples of Covid-19 from the TCI sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency for testing has been identified as the United Kingdom variant, also known as B.1.1.7.

On February 27, the Ministry of Health received the results of genomic sequencing on the National Public Health Laboratory samples.

A Government statement on Monday, March 1, said the results were not unexpected due to the territory’s borders being open to international and regional travel as well as the recent increase and spike in the number of new cases reported locally.

“…however, it does highlight the need for all TCI residents to remain vigilant in protecting themselves and one another through the use of face coverings, frequent hand hygiene, physical distancing and getting vaccinated.”

This individual has completed quarantine and recovered.

The Covid-19 virus like any other virus, can undergo mutations, which is well documented in viruses such as seasonal influenza (flu).

The B.1.1.7. variant was first detected in the UK and was first sequenced in the UK in September 2020.

This particular variant includes a

mutation in the ‘spike’protein which is responsible for the more infectious characteristic described.

More than 91,000 cases of the UK variant have been detected in England and Wales and it is responsible for the surge in cases seen in the UK since the end of 2020.

It was first identified in south east England and since then became the predominant strain in the UK, spreading more rapidly resulting in high case counts and a higher rate of mortality.

B.1.1.7. has been identified in a number of other countries including the US with cases being found in Florida which the TCI has close travel links with.

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, which is being rolled out to TCI residents, has been shown to be effective against this variant.

However, the general public is reminded to be vigilant in adhering to all public health protocols to prevent the spread of the virus throughout the community.

A number of other variants have been identified globally and there is concern that variants could cause additional challenges with controlling the pandemic, the statement said.

Covid-19 variants have been shown to spread more easily, have a higher mortality rate and possibly may not be as responsive to the different vaccines being rolled out.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day

NON-NATIVE APPOINTED MEMBERS

Last week Governor Nigel Dakin appointed a Haitian TC Islander and a Dominican TC Islander to the House of Assembly as his representatives for the next four years.

These appointments have caused much discussion and discontent among indigenous TC Islanders on social media and many have called for a boycott of the House.

What are your thoughts?

Largely symbolic

The Haitian and Dominican communities have become very integral parts of life in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and the governor’s decision to appoint a representative from each to the House of Assembly is a fair and proper move – one that will give these two communities a sense of participation in their Government, even if that participation is largely symbolic.

With regard to the apparent discontent of many TCI natives at this decision, if there is any ‘blame’ to be assigned here, it can only be laid upon successive TCI Governments.

These administrations have refused to implement and enforce a limited-term, nonrenewable condition on work permits for unskilled labourers, have failed to enforce the leaving of the country by those whose work permits have expired, and have not had the courage to punish those TCI natives who encourage and profit from illegal immigration and the provision of jobs to undocumented immigrants.

Should irresistible pressure eventually be applied by either the UK or the United Nations to grant citizenship and voting rights to these long-term residents, get ready for the legislature to be conducted in Creole!

Outdated appointments

It is mischievous what the governor has done. He knew this appointment would

spark some controversy.

It’s the age-old tactic of the British: divide and rule. They did it in Africa, they did it in India, they did it in Trinidad and Guyana.

They knew what the result would be.

We have no problem with a Haitian Belonger or a Dominican Belonger being in parliament, but let them get elected by the people.

The governor is out of order. And in trying to smooth over what he has done, he is suggesting a national conversation on who is a Belonger.

Yes, a national conversation is long overdue, but it should be on the outdatedness of appointing people to the House of Assembly.

We say put an end to this outmoded practice, and let everyone who serves in that august body be sent there by the people of this country.

If a Haitian and a Dominican wants to be there, let them campaign and run for office like everyone else.

Now we know this governor likes to hang out in places like Dock Yard and Dominican town. Is that where his heart really is?

Well represented

We have heard many ‘talks’ about an inclusive TCI - well those appointments are a just result of those calls.

There are enough indigenous Turks and Caicos members of parliament to look after our interest so having these nominations by the governor should not be a problem.

I know Mr Charles and he is a good pick.

I do not know the other person.

The ruling Government just have to utilise the 14 properly and we will be well represented. However, we need to empower some youths.

Just racism

It’s in the title TC Islander - if they are legally and professionally appropriate, what’s the problem? Just people being racist it seems.

Small-minded

Be realistic - it took Grenada a base population of 100,000 to develop and move forward. You can’t have it both ways inward investment with a mere 40,000 or a base starting point with select ex-pats and money accompanying.

No-one invests without a sense of getting some form of return and status security.

Get real and stop being so small-minded and parochial.

Congratulations

A Turks and Caicos Islander is a Turks and Caicos Islander whether by birth, descent or paper.

In my view both appointees bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table more so than most of the elected representatives.

There was no uproar when John Phillips was appointed so why the uproar now. I say congratulations to both of them.

Boycott the House

Boycotting the House is an excellent idea.

The governor has insulted us all!

The governor has failed miserably in his responsibility to protect our borders and control illegal migration now he adds insult to injury and disrespect with the current appointments.

The governor should give greater focus to

the matters in his portfolio which advances good governance. Matters such as effective policing, border control, diplomacy.

Has he ever initiated a discussion and sought to arrive at an understanding with our Haitian neighbours on the matter of illegal immigration?

Our relationship with our Haitian and Dominican fellowmen is an issue for us to decide on our own, not with an insult from a British appointed governor.

Boycott the House, yes! And throw the governor out. Send him packing.

Simply prejuduce

Blatant racism, pure and simple, no other way to describe it.

No similar issues were raised when one of the previous appointees, John Phillips, a white TC Islander, was appointed then reappointed without much fuss.

Mr Phillips is generally regarded as having been an excellent parliamentarian and I am confident these two respected new appointees will work just as hard on (all) the people’s business.

Move forward

Excellent choices. We need to move away from the impish practise of classifying people based on their place of birth.

If you have the Turks and Caicos Islands national status card you are a Turks and Caicos Islander.

 BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us?

What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it?

Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com

March 2-8, 2021

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NEWS

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Field hospital on its way as TCI Hospital hits 150% capacity about 100 percent bed occupancy.

He explained that the healthcare team were able to “retrofit” more beds.

BY OLIVIA ROSE A temporary field hospital is being imported to help with overflow, after TCI Hospital hit 150 percent capacity for several days last week due to escalating Covid-19 cases.

Premier Hon. Washington Misick made the revelation a day after two of his party members took a tour of Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales on Tuesday, February 23.

Speaking at the swearing in of the Cabinet at the Premier’s Office in Providenciales on Wednesday, February 24, Misick said the Covid-19 situation in the territory is very “serious”.

“We were presented with some pretty dire statistics by the health team, some of you may or may not be aware of that,” he said.

“Because we have pledged to be transparent, without scaring you I think it’s important that I let you know that…we were told that at one point last week for several days the hospital was running at 150 percent capacity.”

He said he was not aware if the situation was still as dire, adding: “A field hospital is on its way for delivery here.”

During a two-hour tour of Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders, and Member of Parliament, Hon. Jamell Robinson reviewed the hospital’s current operational status and Covid-19 response.

The tour was spearheaded by chief executive officer at TCI Hospital, Dr Denise BraithwaiteTennant and general manager of

TCI Hospital CEO Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant with MP Hon. Jamell Robinson and Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders (TCI Hospital)

facilities, Martin Dawtry.

Providenciales has been the epicentre for Covid-19 cases and the medical facility has supported 98 percent of Covid-19 patient admissions.

A statement from the TCI Hospital on February 24, said the visit focused on special areas of interest including the hospital’s 749 square metre shelled space, which can be developed to increase the hospital’s capacity as a longterm resolution.

It explained: “The area was constructed since the inception of the hospital as a spare unfinished space for any future expansion needs, and is temporarily used as storage for hospital supplies.”

The outpatient department renovation project was another key area that the politicians visited.

“The duo examined 12 consultation rooms, which were retrofitted with medical gas lines for oxygen support, inpatient beds and other biomedical equipment late last year.

“Resources are pre-deployed

All island curfew hours reduced to 11pm to 5am The curfew on all islands has changed to 11pm to 5am, the minister of health announced on Monday, March 1, with all businesses having to close at 10pm.

During a live streamed press conference, Hon. E Jay Saunders, Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services, spoke about the new Covid-19 safety measures.

The curfew will begin on Wednesday, March 3, and will continue until 5am on March 17, when it will be reviewed.

It is two hours shorter than the previous curfew which began at 9pm and ended at 5am.

Meanwhile, all businesses must close by 10pm, the minister said.

Bars and restaurants are limited to 30 percent capacity both indoors and outdoors and no congregating is allowed at the bar counter.

Pleasure crafts are allowed up to 30 percent capacity, as are places of worship.

No more than 20 people are allowed outdoors at religious functions such as church services, weddings and funerals.

And the complete ban on private, public, sporting and social gatherings of any description, including beaches, is extended to March 17.

into the area only under circumstances where the number of Covid-19 patient admissions exceed the bed capacity of the general wards.

“Six outpatient department consultation rooms were also retrofitted at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk for the same purpose,” the statement added.

Generally, capacity refers to the percent of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds currently occupied.

An ICU is considered functionally full when it reaches 85 percent capacity.

During a press conference on Monday, March 1, Minister of Health Hon. E Jay Saunders said TCI Hospital is now running at

VACCINATIONS AND TESTS Premier Misick reminded residents of the need to get tested and called on them to register to be vaccinated as well.

“I have been told that most or many Turks and Caicos Islanders have not embraced the opportunity or shown up and sign up to be vaccinated in the first shipment of vaccines that arrived. I am appealing to every person to show up and register to be vaccinated.

“If you feel ill, get in touch with the relevant health hotline, call the hotline and make sure you’re tested.”

He stressed that the territory’s economy relies heavily on its tourism product which has been severely impacted by the pandemic.

“We have a tourism industry and we have very negative numbers at the moment which is having a very serious impact on the industry and unless we can get that right we will have a difficult time turning this economy around.”

He added that the TCI remains at level four - which indicates a

very high level of Covid-19 - on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s four-level health notice rating system.

“I understand that part of the reason why that is because the number of people being tested is low and it’s low because people are refusing to be tested, people are not showing up to be tested and some people are showing up when it’s time to be admitted to the hospitals.”

The premier underscored the importance of the collective response to the surge in Covid-19 cases as the Government works to manage the effects of the pandemic on the nation.

“We need to be tested so that we can bring that negative number down. At the moment it’s 28 percent on Monday and it needs to be brought down to three percent if we’re going to get back on the United States corridor.

“I understand that that is doable with a significant increase in testing and I understand that the capacity for testing is actually here, so I appeal to use we’re in this together and we could all help.”

He added that his Government will meet with critical stakeholders in the private and public sectors as well international partners to discuss the territory’s situation further.

Under the tree By Benneth Williams

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March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Rachel Marshall Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services (TCI Government)

Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles QC taking her oath (TCI Government)

Deputy Governor Anya Williams is sworn in as a Cabinet member (TCI Government)

New Cabinet members sworn in

BY OLIVIA ROSE Governor Nigel Dakin swore in the new slate of Cabinet members during a live streamed ceremony at the Premier’s Office in Providenciales on Wednesday, February 24.

Newly elected Premier and Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade Hon. Charles Washington Misick will lead the Cabinet.

Members are Erwin Jay Saunders - Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services, Akierra Mary Deanne Missick Leader of Government Business and Minister of Infrastructure, Housing Planning and Development, Josephine Olivia Connolly - Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming and Disaster Management, Otis Chuck Morris - Minister of Home Affairs, Public Utilities and Transportation, Arlington Alexander Musgrove - Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services and Rachel Marshall Taylor - Minister of Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services.

Joining them are Deputy Governor Anya Williams, whose aim is to help Cabinet understand the implications and consequences of its decisions, and Attorney General Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles QC, who helps the Cabinet follow the law.

All Cabinet members took an oath of allegiance, the oath of due execution of office and officially assumed their portfolios.

Premier Hon. Washington Misick, who addressed Cabinet members after they were sworn-in, urged them to carry out their duties with great care for the welfare of citizens.

“To each minister and every

The first official meeting of the new Cabinet after the swearing-in ceremony (Instagram/Nigel Dakin)

public servant, I say be respectful of the people and work tirelessly to promote their rights, welfare and wellbeing,” he said.

“We come for this work because we want to deliver for the people and it is going to require team effort.”

Misick stressed that one of the toughest challenges he has faced since winning the election was choosing who would be in his Cabinet.

He said: “Each one of my ministers and each one of my candidates could actually be our leaders in their own right, so it was a very difficult job indeed, but at the end of the day the premise has to be to make sure that we have as broad a representation as possible, considering the archipelago.

“We want to make sure there is proper representation for each island and we also want to make sure those persons who have significant legislative skills could be part of that makeup because succession planning is very important to me,” he explained.

Misick also disclosed that

backbenchers will be assigned to shadow different ministries as part of his Government’s plan to promote seamless succession in the administrative system.

“We have actually assigned them to the different ministers so that they can shadow those ministries, because it’s critical that they interface with the public.

“They have constituencies that need to know and it is important that their constituencies have information and have an opportunity to benefit from their involvement.”

THE ROLE OF CABINET Governor Dakin congratulated the new premier on his “remarkable victory” in the February 19 general election and said that he looked forward to working closely with the Government.

“I know the expectations that have been placed on you and I know you feel them keenly,” he said.

Dakin explained the way Cabinet works, the differing roles in Cabinet, and the notion of

collective responsibility.

He said: “Cabinet members are provided with a manual entitled ‘Responsibilities and Procedures for Cabinet and Government Business’.

“The basic requirement for the successful operation of the constitution is that all members of the Cabinet should work together in unity as a team.”

He said the first duty of all members is to play a full part in reaching the decisions on policy matters which only the Cabinet can take.

“All members of the Cabinet are jointly responsible for all decisions taken by the Cabinet.”

Dakin underscored that the principle of “collective responsibility” is vital to the success and effectiveness of the system of ministerial government.

“Matters will be fully discussed in the Cabinet, but will not be put to the vote.

“All members of the Cabinet have not only full liberty but a clear duty at meetings of the Cabinet to speak for or against any proposal

before it.

“If agreement of all members cannot be reached initially it may be necessary for further discussions to take place until either full agreement is reached on the substance of the matter or else the dissentient(s) agree to accept and support the decision of the Cabinet as a whole, even though they may continue to be strongly opposed to it personally.”

The governor further explained that a Cabinet member who is not able to accept and support a decision taken by the Cabinet has only one course open to him (or her), which is to resign.

“Otherwise, each and every member of the Cabinet is bound to support the Cabinet’s decision, and to accept responsibility for it, once the Cabinet has given its advice to the Governor and he has accepted that advice.”

Dakin said that pragmatically this makes sense, because most of the serious issues facing Government require more than one ministry to work together to deliver a result.

“That has been particularly true in the past year and as the world and government gets ever more complex it will certainly be true in the future.

“It is therefore no good if, as we walk out of the Cabinet room, different ministries are hearing different things from different ministers, or a member of Cabinet is saying publicly that they do not agree with a particular course of action.”

He stressed that in terms of providing steady national leadership, if the premier and the governor are divided, that route leads to national confusion.

“At a time of pandemic that would be nothing short of disastrous,” he added.

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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Premier promises $1,000 relief grant to all citizens before April

BY REBECCA BIRD A grant of $1,000 is available to all TC Islander status holders or British overseas territory citizens over the age of 18 who have lived in the territory for the past 12 months.

A total of about $11 million is expected to be paid out in the Citizen Relief Programme, which was approved by the new Cabinet on Monday, March 1.

Premier Hon. Washington Misick announced the grant and several other measures designed to offer economic support during the pandemic, in a press conference the same evening.

He said residents have from March 3 to 12 to apply for the cash award, which will be paid to eligible applicants before the end of the financial year, March 31.

Registration forms will be made available on the Government’s website – www.gov.tc – as well as at temporary physical locations for those without internet access.

Misick said Cabinet also approved an exemption from customs import duty on personal protective equipment, cleaning, hygiene and sanitation supplies for six months from March 3.

It approved the write off of late fees on penalties on all outstanding contributions to the National Health Insurance Board owed by subscribers up to February 28.

And the write off of additional

charges on late payments of National Insurance Board contributions by employers and self-employed people up to February 28.

More measures have been discussed by Cabinet but not yet approved because “it is early days”, the premier said.

“We still do not know what the long-term impact is going to be and how long this Covid is going to last and so it is possible that there could be additional need to provide assistance to the people of this country.

“This is not a time to be stingy or frugal – we don’t want to transfer debt and hardship to our people, and so to the extent that this Government can assist, we will continue to assist.”

The Citizen Relief Programme is being funded by the Covid-19 Stimulus Programme and the Contingency Fund.

The news came less than a week after former premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson called on the new Government to meet the financial promises it made during its election campaign.

That includes giving voters “$2,000 each for three months” and giving civil servants a portion of their salaries as a stimulus, the former premier claimed on February 25.

The new administration must also not forget about policies that

Premier Hon. Washington Misick announced the grant and several other measures designed to offer economic support during the pandemic (Screenshot/RTC Station)

the PDM Government had already set in motion, she as she announced her resignation as leader of the PDM. These include the current stimulus of $600 for TC Islanders only and the payment of the $200 household grocery assistance.

In a statement she added that she will “personally back” the Government in following through on its promises and urged citizens to do the same.

STIMULUS CHATTER Prior to the February 19 general election, a screenshot of an alleged Whatsapp conversation between Charles Washington Misick and another person was circulated on

social media.

It hinted at promises of hefty $2,000 stimulus payments to persuade voters to mark their crosses for the PNP. But in a press statement on February 12, the now premier called the screenshot “fake” and a “manufactured message by desperate political operatives”.

“No such conversation has taken place between me and anyone else.

It is a LIE,” he said at the time.

This week, a pre-election video seemingly recorded on February 18 was shared on social media, featuring now Deputy Premier E Jay Saunders talking about stimulus grants.

“We want to start getting those stimulus cheques out by next week.

If you give us the Government, they’ll be delivered to you by next Friday - those cheques will be in your accounts,” he can be heard saying.

During Monday’s meeting Saunders said he was talking about the $1,000 grant, not a $2,000 grant as text on the video suggested, and added: “We delivered on that promise.”

Cartwright Robinson said she will always defend the “democratic right” of the people even as they ask for a new political direction.

She said that as finance minister she was transparent on reporting the TCI’s finances and invited new premier and Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, to do the

same.

“I sincerely hope that the new Government will be able to deliver for the people of the Turks and Caicos because at the time of challenge and amidst this raging pandemic, they deserve strong and decisive leadership,” she said.

The former premier stressed that the people’s success depends “almost entirely” on their Government’s success in office.

“I will urge the new Government to continue to look out, especially for the most marginal among us, and for those who have been beaten down by this pandemic.”

The eight year leader of the PDM said the party’s mission of lifting people up must now be coopted by the new Government.

“While in the coming days and weeks, there will be an ongoing post mortem on our term as Government, I want it be known that throughout these four years – and against many odds – we have kept the faith and uphold the honour of governance.”

Cartwright Robinson said that in every endeavour she wished she could have done more and always wished the many things she did, she could have done even better. “…but never for one day did we short-change the people or misled them and for this I am proudest.

“For all the things we did and did not do – one thing was consistent.

We kept the trust.”

40% of TCI’s population could be vaccinated by May Second batch of Covid-19 vaccine arrives

BY OLIVIA ROSE About 40 percent of the TCI’s population could be vaccinated against the coronavirus by May if the newly arrived 23,400 doses are administered, according to Governor Nigel Dakin.

A British Airways cargo flight touched down at Providenciales International Airport on Wednesday, February 24, carrying the second batch of Pfizer/ BioNTech vaccines.

The governor was joined by the new Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Hon. E Jay Saunders to receive the shipment from the United Kingdom.

Speaking at the swearing in ceremony for the new Cabinet that same day, Dakin said the

new Government is aiming for complete vaccination of the islands

by August.

“A pledge I and many others very much look forward to supporting you in as it is not only our only way out of a health crisis, but also signals the start of our return to economic prosperity.

“It seems real world evidence now strongly suggests that not only does the Pfizer vaccine seriously reduce hospital admissions and death, but also reduces transmission rates.”

Also speaking at the ceremony, Premier Washington Misick urged residents to get vaccinated to help curb the spread of the virus.

“To all residents you must be part of the solution...always social distance, wear your mask, wash your hands and sanitise and

embrace the opportunity to get vaccinated.”

Misick said the Government will provide healthcare including vaccines and support in the form of stimulus and care packages to those in need.

“Covid-19 has taken a severe toll on our people and has ravaged our economy and we can see the evidence everywhere - increase in poverty, unemployment and worsening standard of living and we must therefore tackle Covid-19 together.”

The TCI Government began vaccinating the local population against Covid-19 on January 11.

Governor Nigel Dakin and former premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson were among the first to receive the vaccine in an effort to

Governor Nigel Dakin and the new Deputy Premier Hon. E Jay Saunders on hand to welcome the flight (Nigel Dakin/Instagram)

encourage residents to take it.

As of February 8, 6,433 people had been vaccinated in the TCI against the coronavirus – or about 14.4 percent of the population.

The second batch of vaccine is more than twice the amount received last time and it will allow the TCI to fully vaccinate more than 11,700 people or another 26 percent of the population.

Once these doses have been administered, about 40 percent of the population will have been vaccinated.

The TCI Government accepted

the offer from the UK for doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine in November 2020 shortly before it received regulatory approval from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency.

The TCI, along with the Cayman Islands and Bermuda, were the only British overseas territories in the Caribbean to receive this initial batch of vaccines from the UK. This was attributed to the TCI having the required infrastructure to maintain the vaccine (requires cooling to -70 C) and distribute it effectively.

10 NEWS OPINIONS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

How shopping in Miami and online is impacting in-store shopping For many residents, shopping is a hobby.

Among others, it is a just an errand. Whether we enjoy or dislike it – as purchasing zealots and retail introverts we must shop.

TCI residents have – overtime – created a ‘shopping in Miami’ culture, which involves regularly flying to that city to purchase merchandise.

While this approach to purchasing is deemed in-store shopping, it is somewhat exhausting and quaint.

This is not only costly with respect to travel, accommodation and custom duties, but it is inconvenient, as one has to take time off from one’s jobs to do so.

And although this shop culture still holds strong, nowadays many of us are taking the new and easy way out – shopping online.

From this custom, the TCI found itself in a dire situation. Currently, there are hardly adequate and accessible shopping opportunities across the Islands.

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.

In fact, Kishco is the major outlet for apparel with a few small and scattered retailers.

One might think in-store shopping is going extinct, however this is furthest from the truth. According to statistics, overall retails sales in the US alone in 2018 were $6 trillion and in-store purchases accounted for 90 percent of those sales.

Fifty-four percent of brands accredited customer experience as the lead priority, while 51 percent of customers preferred in-

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store shopping, as it grants them the ability to touch, try on apparel, and get correct sizes before spending their money and leaving the store.

Another justification for in-store purchases is the instant gratification the shopper derives.

Coupled with this, many online merchants endeavour to mimic the in-person shopping experience via videos and emails, however it is not the same, as it lacks the option for sales persons to answer questions and demonstrate how a particular item works.

Alos if the shopper is not able to find an exact item a sales person can assist further by presenting a substitute product.

Despite the adoration for ordering online, these distinctly striking characteristics sustain the appeals for physical shopping.

Before I press on, we must acknowledge that online shopping has enormous benefits

to the shopper.

It supports home delivery, which saves time and avoid shopping centre rush. This methodology is especially suited for people who are extremely busy and whose orders are not quite urgent.

And while it allows for 24-hour shopping, access to a wider variety of brands, shopping online has more exclusive sales and discounts than physical stores.

But what happens when you’re pressed for time? How can you acquire a dress or tuxedo, books or a gift urgently and within 24 hours?

It is not rocket science to figure! Neither going to Miami to shop or shopping online can quench this urgent desire.

Hence, my recommendation for the introduction of shopping centres or a central shopping mall to house a variety of stores and brands, and other forms of convenient shopping, especially in apparel.

To realise this feat, the Government must encourage entrepreneurship, ease of conducting business and provide business funding.

However, price control must be formalised to make goods and services affordable to shoppers, locally.

I believe there should be a mixture of both online and physical shopping, as one complements the other.

Is it God’s will or our free will when selecting political leaders?

Most times during elections, the name of God is used frequently. In fact, it is used more than ever.

Sometimes I believe it is used because people know that God exists and they believe that if they have faith and whatever they ask for they will receive it.

During the elections, you will hear some of the following statements: God does not sleep, God appoints and God removes kings, let God’s will be done.

While these statements are true, it is my personal opinion that God is not directly involved in the selection of political leaders, however, he does know the outcome of an election because God is an omniscient God. Therefore, I believe that politicians are chosen by the free will of the people.

The political systems throughout the world, including my beloved Turks and Caicos Islands, have created a lot of chaos, confusion and division.

God is not a God of confusion and

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.

division. God’s desire is for us to elect Jesus Christ as our saviour not politicians.

Many of us have turned our backs on the God and have the politicians as gods.

Will God appoint leaders who kill people? Will God appoint leaders who promote hatred and division?

I believe that God will expose the wickedness and corruption of people thus allowing people to use their free will to select their politicians. However, I believe that

God’s will is for us to evangelise about him.

It is true that governments have been established throughout the world and someone has to run the government but are we better off spiritually with the political system.

Our involvement in the political system has driven us apart from God. This cannot be the design that God intended for us to do.

God has given all of us a free will to make decisions. According to Wikipedia: “Free

will is the ability to choose between different possible courses of action unimpeded.

“Free will is closely linked to the concepts of moral responsibility, praise, guilt, sin, and other judgements which apply only to actions that are freely chosen.”

Based on this definition of free will, it is indeed our free will that we use to select our politicians.

This is the reason why politicians and their supporters campaign a lot, because they want to convince us to choose their politicians of their choice and we do so, based on our free will.

Why do you think politicians work so hard going door to door to convince people to work for them?

You can pray as much as you want and have faith, but faith without works is dead.

In conclusion, I think we are getting God mixed up too much in politics. I believe an election result is the result of the free will of the people and not necessarily of God.

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

How our nation is turning its people into second class citizens PART ONE A young man and Turks and Caicos Islander walks into the police station in Providenciales to file a complaint that his land, legally owned by him, has been taken over by illegal migrant squatters who have built a home/rental property on his real property, and asks them for assistance rectifying this wrong.

They tell him there is little they can do and he has to “go to court”.

Some years earlier, another citizen, my neighbour for most of my life, and a former deputy chief of police suffered this same fate in this same island.

Illegal migrant squatters took possession of his land and built wooden dwellings on his generational property.

He, like this young man, filed a complaint to the authorities and they did nothing. So he bulldozed these structures, which he had every right to do.

Then what happened? The offenders rebuilt on his property,

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.

but this time they put up stone dwellings. I imagine assuming they would be harder to demolish.

He took the matter to court.

After much ignoring and cost to his pocket, he finally won and his illegally-appropriated property was returned to him.

He bulldozed these structures as, once again, he had every right to do, from the simple fact that his plans for his property might have been totally at odds with what had been illegally erected on it.

Now this is not medieval Europe where people did as they liked if they were blessed with privilege, or were the less fortunate trying to get out from under the thumb of that oppressive privilege.

This is a case where indigenous people own their property and newly-arrived illegal immigrants simply take over these properties.

The local TCI Government and the ‘so-called’ overseeing UK government (yes, TCI is still today a colonial overseas territory of the UK. How repugnant!) sit by in a state of permanent inertia as these citizens become more and more dispossessed in their own home.

How is this allowed, and who is liable?

That was Providenciales. Now to the serene island gem of Salt Cay. The TCIG, by way of the attorney general and her office, is in the process of reviewing

approval and awarding about 112 acres of Crown land on that island to a business entity for a cruise port development.

Now let me clarify here. In my use of the term ‘Crown land’ readers might be mistaken into thinking such land belonged to the Crown, and in this case the British Crown.

Perish the thought! This land is exclusively the property of the people of the TCI. That being the case it stinks to high heaven that the AG and her office is negotiating the awarding of this acreage of the people’s land.

Why? The AG and her office are the legal entity in the TCI ensuring the interests of the Crown, not that of the people of Turks and Caicos, despite this AG ‘hemming and hawing’ in a public meeting in Provo during the constitutional reform drive not long ago that she represents the people.

The travesty here is that the AG and her office oversee our TCI peoples’ Crown land.

This has been the case since the

UK-imposed interim government, before the PDM administration came to office. A most improper arrangement.

But it’s much worse. How can the attorney general and her office be overseeing the awarding of TCI land to a private entity when she represents the Crown, where it is quite possible that this business entity is connected to, or favoured by the Crown?

From a professional standpoint the attorney general and that office should be seeing to no such transaction until our land has been handed over to a proper Land Bureau Management Authority, in which their only role in such a transaction would be serving as the legal entity on hand to ensure all the I’s are dotted and T’s crossed to the benefit of the TCI Government.

Their true designated role.

If this transaction takes place under the current setting one cannot help but ask how it is allowed, and who is responsible?

Part two of this column will be published in next week’s newspaper.

What valuable lessons have we learned from this past election?

Dear Editor, If we have learned anything from the recent election in the TCI, it’s that our democracy is still intact and stronger than ever.

Now that we have a new Government in office, some may say we can breathe a sigh of relief.

I beg to differ and caution you.

Not so quick - we still have some difficult roads ahead.

We can all agree that the past four years was quite a challenging time for our country.

Let’s spell it out. A relatively small country that depends solely on the tourism industry, stuck with a oncein-a-century pandemic and back-toback devastating hurricanes - this is the epitome of any government being tested and tried.

Nevertheless, in an age of increasing demands, entitlement and little room for excuses, it’s no surprise this past election was a landslide for the Opposition.

Despite the unforeseen events, there is an expectation from the general public that no matter what, you still have to deliver on your promises with noticeable changes and reforms.

Most importantly, knowing

in what order of priority the challenges set before you should be pursued for the benefit of the people.

Prior to the pandemic, we had a seemingly robust and durable economy. However, in recent months, we quickly realised how delicate it is, and how swiftly it can be undermined if it lacks diversification of resources for long-term economic growth.

I believe it is with well intentions that most political leaders do good for their country.

Be reminded, when the new PDM party got elected to office in 2016, they gave off the appearance of great strength, at least on the surface.

But as we know for any leader to be effective, having the right team behind you is critical for success.

This brings me to my main points; at this juncture in our quest to move the country forward, lets focus on the opportunities that lie ahead rather them critiquing the past.

Let’s start with finding creative ways to stabilise the job market, conducting a deep dive into cost of living in these Islands, expanding

on agricultural opportunities and taking on other calculated risks.

It is of paramount importance for the new administration to seriously consider strengthening of our fragile infrastructure or eventually the cookie will crumble. It is the framework for any reasonable, successful and durable society.

Secondly, we cannot and should not base progress on maintaining the status quo, especially when it comes to critical infrastructure issues like our public sanitation services across these developing islands.

Also, we must to be able to put aside political differences if only to protect our core institutions and values.

And at some point, the politicians on both sides need to see their interest as aligned as opposed to always in a conflict.

The only way to bring about real change is through continued accountability of our political leaders and having a unified voice.

Therefore, don’t stop blowing the conch shell horns just yet, the real test is about to come.

The newspapers along with the various social media platforms,

also have a vital role to play, as the public relies heavily on the facts rather than hearsay or opinions.

Also, the overarching negative comments of publicly attacking each other’s character has to stop. Being critical of his or her performance or lack thereof is more prudent.

Thirdly, given the rising voice and voting power of our youth in this country, they can no longer be ignored.

Our youth are the most important segment of society in terms of the future of our country, which was manifested significantly in their eligibility to turn out and vote in this past election cycle.

During the past several weeks, it has been fascinating to see how the political parties ramped up efforts to get their message out.

And kudos to the various talk show hosts for educating the masses and challenging the politicians on issues that mattered the most. This needs to become the norm.

We know the real success is when voters can cast ballots in significant numbers, which we saw in this election cycle despite the

fears and exposure of this ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

As a people, we must also be brave enough to speak up when we see corruption or things that undermine the basic principles of our core values.

Leaders who fail to listen to the voices of the people have no place in the free world, because they weaken the core of democracy.

In my opinion, if the solidity of our institutions in these Islands remains strong, and we can capitalise on missed opportunities, we will be in a much better position to weather the storms.

Certainly, this new Government is facing an uphill battle with returning the country to some kind of normalcy, but it’s time to heal the wounds and move forward.

If they make it a central focus of their administration to put the power back in the hands of the people, by restoring the rights of land to its citizens, in addition to restoring the original constitution as it once was or beyond, they will have accomplished much.

Ed Forbes, Grand Turk

12

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

A Turks and Caicos Islander is Both primary and secondary oaths a Turks and Caicos Islander should be kept Dear Editor, I was born in Haiti and was brought to the Turks and Caicos Islands at the tender age of five by my adopted Turks and Caicos Islander parents.

I obtained my primary education at Enid Capron Primary School in Five Cays and Ona Glinton Primary School in Grand Turk, my secondary education at Helena Robinson High School, and my tertiary education at TCI Community College.

I am a proud Turks and Caicos Islander, who is also a Haitian because of where I was born.

As I live in the TCI, my allegiance is always first to the TCI and our people. I love my land of birth, and I love my land of citizenship.

Those of you who know me and follow me on Facebook know that I label myself as a Haitian TCI Islander.

Is there such a thing? Some may say not, but I believe that to be the best that you can be in this world, you must never forget where you came from.

I came from Haiti, so I will always embrace and publicly acknowledge my land of birth just as much as I will embrace and acknowledge my land of citizenship/Belongership.

I belong to Turks and Caicos

Islands and am a true Turks and Caicos Islander at heart. This is my home, and there is no place I love more and no place on this planet that I will rather be.

Yes, I love kompa music, and I love Haitian cuisine, but I also love rake and scrape, and I love all food and things TCI. I am no less a Turks and Caicos Islander because of where I was born. Do you love TCI at heart more than I do? I would say no.

Are you more a TCI Islander than I am? I say no.

Are your children more Turks and Caicos Islander than mine because their mother was not born in the TCI? I say no.

Are the privileges afforded to you as Turks and Caicos Islanders under the TCI constitution greater than the privileges afforded to me and my TCI Islander children under that same constitution? I say no.

As per the TCI constitution, a Turks Islander Belonger is a Turks and Caicos Islander no matter where you were born, no matter what your last name is and no matter the colour of your skin or the texture of your hair. Our country’s constitution and immigration laws do not discriminate.

There are no different levels of Turks and Caicos Islanders - there is a clear path to becoming a citizen

of the TCI. Once you have acquired this status and, until the laws of the land change to reflect what we seem to argue amongst ourselves (that those who acquired their TCI status are less than those who are bloodline Turks and Caicos Islanders), we are all the same.

We are all equally eligible to receive and enjoy all the privileges and opportunities that exist within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

I say all that to say this, as Turks and Caicos Islanders we have a country to build, politicians and governments to hold accountable, and a people to unite.

Let’s direct our energy on the things that will propel our country’s progress in the right direction and guarantee a better future for ourselves, our children, and our entire family lineage.

If this includes changing our immigration policies better to protect the indigenous group of TCI citizens, let us advocate for this, but in a positive and nonslandering method.

Until then, let’s embrace the diverse backgrounds and heritage of ALL Turks and Caicos Islanders.

Rose Higgs, Turks and Caicos Islands

PNP appoints member for House of Assembly Jameka Williams has been chosen as the Progressive National Party (PNP)’s appointed member to take a seat in the House of Assembly.

Akierra Missick, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, Planning and Development, announced the appointment outside the PNP headquarters in Providenciales on Monday, March 1.

Three rounds of voting finally saw Williams take the 54 votes needed to win, ahead of Jas Walkin who placed a close second with 47 votes.

The news was met with cheers from gathered supporters, dressed in the party yellow.

Walkin offered his congratulations to Williams on her election as the PNP Government's appointed member in a Facebook statement.

“The elections by the NGC was fair open and honest. I am

Jameka Williams is the Progressive National Party (PNP)’s appointed member (Facebook/Matthew Stubbs)

proud of my party, its officers, and members for the display of democracy in three rounds of voting,” he said.

“I want to thank all the people who voted for me in all three rounds.

“I want to wish the new Government’s appointed member

all the best in her role as well as the rest of the soon to be sworn in members of the TCI House of Assembly.”

The People’s Democratic Party (PDM)’s appointed member is attorney at law, Alvin Garland.

Dear Editor Today I was lucky enough to hear the elected officials swearing allegiance to Queen Elizabeth II and her heirs so as to be allowed to sit in the TCI parliament.

As I see it, the oaths the elected officials were taking to the queen are secondary oaths, and to properly understand these secondary oaths one should understand and know the content of the primary oath.

The primary oath under which our leaders govern is the coronation oath that the queen took to God and man when she was crowned on June 2, 1953: During the coronation ceremony the archbishop stood before the queen and administered the coronation oath.

Archbishop: Madam, is your majesty willing to take the oath?

Queen: I am willing.

The queen, having a book in her hands, answered the archbishop’s questions as follows: Archbishop: Will you solemnly promise and swear to govern the peoples of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Union of South Africa, Pakistan, and Ceylon, and of your possessions and the other territories to any of them belonging or pertaining, according to their respective laws and customs?

Queen: I solemnly promise so to do.

Archbishop: Will you to your power cause law and justice, in mercy, to be executed in all your judgements?

Queen: I will.

Archbishop: Will you to the utmost of your power maintain the laws of God and the true profession of the Gospel? Will you to the utmost of your power maintain in the United Kingdom the Protestant Reformed Religion established by law?

Will you maintain and preserve inviolably the settlement of the Church of England, and the doctrine, worship, discipline, and government thereof, as by law established in England?

And will you preserve unto the bishops and clergy of England, and to the churches there

committed to their charge, all such rights and privileges, as by law do or shall appertain to them or any of them?

Queen: All this I promise to do.

Then the queen arising out of her chair, supported as before, the Sword of State being carried before her, went to the altar, and made her solemn oath in the sight of all the people to observe the premises: laying her right hand upon the Holy Gospel in the great Bible, and said these words: Queen: The things which I have here before promised, I will perform and keep. So help me God. Then the queen kissed the book and signed the oath.

The queen having thus taken her oath returned again to her chair, and the Bible was delivered to the dean of Westminster.

Now following the swearing in of our elected officials the governor explained to everyone the importance of the parliament being in unity, and closed by asking God to bless the nation.

So, in the primary oath that is taken, the queen swears “to maintain the laws of God and the true profession of the gospel with the utmost of her power”, and following this our leaders have sworn a secondary oath to faithfully align themselves with her.

Our leaders clearly expect the queen to uphold her primary oath to God and man, and they in turn will uphold their secondary oaths of allegiance to her.

And in line with this, I would think that the laws within this territory must align with the laws of God and the true profession of the Gospel; so that our leaders are in unity with him and his laws so that his blessing can flow.

I stand to be corrected, but as I see it this is what those who rule over us have sworn to do, and these oaths should be kept, both primary and secondary, and when they are, may almighty God richly bless the Turks and Caicos Islands.

For as the scripture explains: “Blessed is that nation whose God is the Lord.” Psalm 33:12 John D Wildish, Providenciales

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March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 13

THE SALT CAY NOTE

Against all odds

Divers head out to a dive site aboard one of the Salt Cay Divers boats

Salt Cay’s successful, home-grown marketing campaign pays dividends The Turks and Caicos Islands has a new Government. And as such, it would be remiss of me not to congratulate the incoming PNP administration on their resounding, landslide victory and to wish them well.

As the new Premier, the Honourable Charles Washington Misick, stated, shortly after his party’s success in the polls: “The elections are over. Today we are no longer duelling parties, we are Team Turks and Caicos Islands.

We will need all hands on deck for the work that is ahead.”

With those words he set the right tone and I for one was immensely impressed with the dignity and civility with which the key players of both political parties conducted themselves in the aftermath of the election and during the transition. Well done, Team Turks and Caicos!

From a Salt Cay perspective, the past four years of the PDM administration were marked by undeniable achievements on the ground and a sense of dealing with a Government that strove to demonstrate to Salt Cay and its residents that they were not forgotten.

From its redeveloped airport, new sea wall, refurbished school and district administration building, you do not have to be a card-carrying PDM member to admit that this was a Government that genuinely cared for Salt Cay and got things done. It will be good to see the new administration continue along this path.

But enough about politics and onto a Salt Cay poll of sorts that illustrated, once again, how truly independent and self-managed this island really is.

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

On February 16, the 1,400 followers of the Destination Salt Cay Facebook group and the 5,000 friends of the Salt Cay Ferry were asked the following question: “As we continue to promote the DESTINATION SALT CAY, what has been the most effective way to get the word out, during the last 12 months?”

People were given six choices, The Salt Cay Note column and website, the Facebook pages of the Salt Cay Ferry, Destination Salt Cay and other persons and groups, business websites and Tourist Board promotions.

Well over 400 persons decided to take part in the survey and the results were as interesting as they were revealing: A whopping 40 percent found that this column had been the single most effective way to get the Salt Cay story out to the rest of the world, followed by the Facebook page

A recently conducted survey revealed that 40 percent of participants viewed The Salt Cay Note as Salt Cay’s most effective promoter

of the Salt Cay Ferry, with 28 percent, and the Destination Salt Cay group coming in third with 15 percent. Notably, not a single participant found the Tourist Board effective.

What fascinates me about these findings are two things. Firstly, how persuasive and far reaching a homegrown, call it ‘grass roots’ marketing campaign can be and secondly how this then results in business coming in.

Now clearly this was never going to be a record-breaking season. And yet, every time a plane lands, a dive boat departs, a group of people go whale watching, a group from Provo rents a house for a short ‘staycation’, therein lies a small success story, especially in the midst of a pandemic.

A success story that illustrates how

a small island decided to attract new business through a very simple formula, namely by telling its story. This in turn explains the astonishing success of the Salt Cay Note. People like, and I’ll even go as far as to say, love the Salt Cay story!

Two weeks ago, I wrote a column about the trip to East Cay, aboard the ‘Sea Biscuit’ with Captain Ranfurly Been.

More than week went by until I saw Ranfurly again and I was wondering whether he’d seen any increase in interest in his excursion business. It turns out that he had. “The phone hasn’t stopped ringing,” he tells me, as we finally catch up again.

Here’s to the Salt Cay story and to successfully sharing it with the rest of the world.

14 NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Governor names two appointed members

BY REBECCA BIRD Governor Nigel Dakin has named his two appointed members for the House of Assembly as former police officer and attorney Willin Belliard and businessman Harold Charles.

He described his selection as “passionate Turks and Caicos Islanders” who have “completely committed to TCI”.

The governor made the announcement at a press briefing at the Office of the Governor in Providenciales on Thursday, February 25.

Dakin during his speech said he made his choice in terms of four selection criteria.

“First, I wanted to choose those who could cover as many matters as possible that I hold constitutional responsibility for - policing, national security and financial services are examples.

“Second, an interest in issues I described in my inauguration speech - wealth creation, tourism, the vulnerable, child welfare.

“Third, that they could contribute to good governance - so could scrutinise legislation lineby-line, or understood finances and budgets and had understanding of countering corruption, money laundering and human rights.

“And finally, had the gravitas and wisdom to hold and sustain an independent position in the House without being overly influenced.”

He said that Charles, who was born in Haiti, speaks Creole and is well connected to the Haitian community while being embedded in the TCI community.

“There are few people I’ve heard speak as passionately and optimistically about TCI as Harold.

He is the Islands adopted son – from the poorest of beginnings and grateful for it.”

Meanwhile Belliard was born in the Dominican Republic, speaks

Spanish and is well connected to the Dominican community.

“But likewise, Willin’s home and his family’s future are embedded here in TCI and, as an ex-police officer, demonstrated he was prepared to put his life on the line, for the people of TCI, and committed to run towards danger rather than away from it for many years.”

The governor said he has made it clear to both appointees that his recommendation to any successor will be that they should not be reappointed after one term.

“That is because I believe the maximum number of people should be cycled through these roles bringing the maximum amount of opportunity and diversity to the chamber,” he said.

“But also because, as governor, I do not wish to impose on the public purse by having members of the House of Assembly that I appoint profit from the generous pension provision, following two terms of office, without having had to stand before the electorate.”

He spoke widely on his controversial decision to appoint two foreign-born TC Islanders to the role, which he said he hoped would stir some overdue national conversation. “..that results in a more inclusive TCI where the status of being a TCI Islander, however that status was achieved, and however that process in the future is managed, is a badge of solid national unity and shared national pride.”

WILLIN BELLIARD During the meeting, Governor Dakin spoke in length about Belliard, a former police officer, with commendations from a past chief justice and the UK House for Commons for a successful investigation into a major $200 million fraud.

“As a result he brings the interests

Willin Belliard, Governor Nigel Dakin and Harold Charles (Governor’s Office)

of front line law enforcement into the House,” Dakin said.

He said he hopes Belliard will be able to talk intelligently in the House of Assembly about the challenge and future of policing.

The appointed member is also an attorney who has worked on issues in the TCI relating to human rights, holding the Government to account.

“Policing on its own cannot solve the problem of crime in TCI. It also needs an excellent, modern, efficient justice system,” Dakin said.

“The chief justice is leading on this and I hope Willin will help support her agenda, along with other attorneys, in the legislature.

“Having trained at the London Bar – Willin should also bring an attorney’s eye to the line-by-line scrutiny of legislation.”

He was, until recently, a member of the Board of the Financial Intelligence Agency.

And he has spent the past months consulting on a significant anti-corruption investigation in another jurisdiction.

“The insight he gained from

that will, I hope, help inform his thinking when it comes to issues relating to procurement and capital projects,” Dakin said.

HAROLD CHARLES Dakin described Charles as a man who has commanded respect through creation of wealth and employment in the TCI and was the second largest employer, directly and indirectly.

“I also said…that I had great respect for those who put themselves before the electorate and Harold did this in 2012, not successfully, but he provided an alternative political party offering something different.

“I hope Harold, through his actions, encourages others to stand knowing that there is a route into the House – if not immediately – by showing early courage and commitment to the democratic process.”

Harold also clearly has an eye for finance, Dakin added. “…so in matters relating to budget I hope he can bring his financial rigour into the House.”

The governor said that as the

TCI recovers its tourism industry, Charles may be a great asset.

“I hope Harold’s deep knowledge of this industry, particularly at a time when our international airport requires renewal, will be of help to his colleagues.”

Charles brings into the House real knowledge of TCI’s neighbouring country Haiti, Dakin said, which “frustrates and undermines us” with national security problems.

“I hope he can use his influence in his community, and whatever influence he has in Haiti, to help us defend our borders.”

He concluded that Charles’ life experience and rags to riches story is “frankly inspirational”.

“He is, I hope, a role model to all young people here in TCI, whatever their background, that it’s possible to rise from the most humble of beginnings to a position where you receive international recognition and you can serve the Territory in its Legislature.”

In 2014 Charles was presented with TCI’s National Honour for 20 years of outstanding and exemplary public service.

Oxygen supplies are low, says health minister The Turks and Caicos Islands’ health facilities have just 50 days’ worth of oxygen left to support Covid-19 patients, according to Minister of Health E Jay Saunders.

“We’ve been running low on oxygen levels and this oxygen can actually be depleted pretty quickly,” he said during a press conference on Monday, March 1.

“The depletion rate is dependent on the amount of persons on ventilators, so we need to make sure we try to keep people healthy.”

The new health minister said this is just one of the stressors the

Ministry of Health is facing.

“Thankfully we’ve got oxygen generators on island right now and those will allow us to produce oxygen on island, and those are being installed.”

In May last year, former health minister Hon. Edwin Astwood said oxygen supplies were dangerously low because of high global demand due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He added that the territory did not have the capacity to produce oxygen cylinders, and as a result they had to be shipped from overseas.

At the time Astwood said the Ministry of Health planned to buy the full range of products required to generate oxygen in-country, and provide oxygen therapy and monitoring. “…focus has been given to improving local oxygen supply and oxygen therapy systems at both TCIG hospitals,” he said.

Normally, hospital patients receive air or low-flow oxygen, but during the Covid-19 pandemic a much larger number of patients need oxygen therapy to support their breathing.

Covid-19 attacks the lungs and can cause severe pneumonia and difficulty in breathing.

Some patients require a sustained form of ventilation including full sedation and a tube passed into their windpipe.

“Covid-19 causes pneumonia and approximately 15 percent of Covid-19 patients are classified as ‘severe’ and require oxygen therapy,” the former minister explained.

“Much fewer, approximately five percent, are classified as ‘critical’ and require a ventilator.”

Oxygen therapy involves the

free-flow of oxygen through the nostrils to support hospitalised patients recovering from Covid-19.

A ventilator is a complex device that requires well trained staff to operate and maintain.

It provides mechanical ventilation and is only used for those critical Covid-19 patients in intensive care who are unable to breathe.

Nikira John from TCI Hospital told the Weekly News on Tuesday, March 2, that a comprehensive press release will be sent out on the topic later in the week.

March 2-8, 2021

NEWS 15

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Picketers are up in arms about the length, cost and continuing prosecution in the SIPT case, calling for a halt to the proceedings

Protestors hold signs expressing their upset at the length and cost of the case (Delana Isles/TC Weekly News)

Protestors call for end of SIPT case Angry demonstrators gathered in front of the Supreme Court annex in Providenciales on Tuesday morning, March 2, protesting the DPP’s decision to continue the corruption prosecution.

Protestors held signs which read, ‘Millions on SIPT, $0.00 for pandemic’, ‘Spend a billion to collect a million’, ‘SIPT trial has nothing to do with justice’ and ‘Britain = Oppression’ among others.

That morning Director of Public Prosecution, Eugene Otuonye QC, filed fresh charges against seven accused of corruption during the Michael Misick administration.

The new charges come after the first trial, presided over by the late Justice Paul Harrison, was officially declared at an end

by Madam Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang on Monday.

Appointment of non-native TC Islanders to House sparks debate

BY REBECCA BIRD Leaked news of Governor Nigel Dakin’s two non-native appointments to the House of Assembly, caused passions to run high for several days last week.

During a press briefing, where he publicly announced the new members, he said that over the prior 48 hours a number of people had reached out expressing “worries and concerns”.

But he said this has simply reinforced in his mind that “there is a need for a national conversation on this issue” that he hopes will lead to a more inclusive TCI. On Thursday, February 25, the governor announced Dominicanborn Willin Belliard and Haitianborn Harold Charles as his appointed members of the House.

Both are TC Islanders that have lived in the TCI for decades.

Following the announcement most online commentators seemed to be in support of his decision, however some expressed their upset at his “disrespect”.

On the Office of the Governor’s

Facebook page, one critic said selecting a Haitian and Dominican-born TC Islander was a “a slap in the first [sic] to intelligent indigenous Turks and Caicos Islanders”.

Another added: “Even tho we have thousands of Turks Islanders can full that position, he don’t care…I really thought he was for us but he proves he’s not.”

During his speech, the governor said that it is important for the future identity of the TCI that its citizens begin to clear up any confusion over who is regarded as a TC Islander.

“People might not agree on how it should be settled, but they do believe it does need to start to be settled.”

He said he hoped to play some part in catalysing and sustaining that debate over the course of the present parliament through those he has appointed - but it needs to be designed and managed by TC Islanders.

“I stress from the outset I offer no preferred solution, or indeed any solution. I am quite clear the

issue is one for Turks and Caicos Islanders alone to resolve.

“But what I do hope to do is generate a conversation that moves beyond short bursts of anger or frustration on social media - or quiet resentment in many communities - into a set of reflections and interventions on the floor of the House of Assembly which is where mature serious debate, on matters of national importance, should occur.”

THE CONSTITUTION At the press briefing at the Office of the Governor in Providenciales, Governor Dakin explained that he is bound in his appointments by the constitution by law.

“I cannot appoint a foreigner,” he said. “If the persons I am about to appoint are considered by you to be ‘foreigners’ then you are at odds with the foundational legal document that all others on the Islands are built from.”

He said that alone is worth a proper conversation.

“Linked to that it is worth saying that there is nothing, anywhere, in

the constitution that differentiates between different types of Turks and Caicos Islanders.”

Dakin explained that in law a Turks and Caicos Islander is simply a Turks and Caicos Islander and under law has equal status.

“Some may not like that, but that is the legal position,” he said.

He added that the constitution guides him to choose people who among those representing shades of opinion not otherwise represented in the House of Assembly.

The governor defended his appointments of non-indigenous TC Islanders, particularly addressing “some on social media” who said they were “hugely disrespectful”.

“I hope find it hard to find an example of where I have shown disrespect to anyone – in person or in social media,” he said.

He spoke of his appointments of many native-born TC Islanders to the roles of deputy commissioner, judge, resident magistrate, officers of the TCI Regiment and others.

Dakin added that a former non-

indigenous governor’s appointed member added “great value” to the House of Assembly.

He added that the many “quite brilliant” TC Islanders he could have appointed to the role would be better placed to stand before the electorate.

“A governor’s appointed member has limits placed on them that an individual with a big and expansive vision, and dream for the Islands, would be constrained from delivering.”

He concluded that his responsibilities as the governor of the TCI brings with it a responsibility to every person who lives there, under the law.

“It is therefore incumbent on me, if I see a chronic problem that is not being tackled, to highlight it.”

He said he has no view as to who should get status in the TCI but a route to status must exist and he will look for the stalled Islander Commission to restart its work imminently.

Visit out Talk Back page for public opinion on this issue.

16 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

Former premier resigns as leader of PDM

BY REBECCA BIRD Sharlene Cartwright Robinson has handed in her resignation as leader of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) after eight years at the helm.

“This is the right and proper thing to do,” she said in her farewell address, adding that it had been an honour to serve the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The official announcement of the former premier’s departure from the party leadership was made in a statement by national chairman Douglas Parnell on Thursday, February 25.

He said its executives had accepted her decision on Saturday, February 20, just after the Progressive National Party (PNP) was named landslide winners of the 2021 general election.

Deputy party leader Hon. Sean Astwood will fulfil her duties until a new party leader is selected at June’s convention.

Meanwhile, Hon. Edwin Astwood, as the only PDM party member elected to the House of Assembly, will be the Leader of the Opposition in parliament.

He will be joined by PDM appointed member, attorney at law, Alvin Garland.

Parnell said: “On behalf of our party, I would like to thank Hon. Robinson for her years of dedicated service to our party and country.

Sharlene Cartwright Robinson is no longer the leader of the PDM (Facebook/People’s Democratic Movement)

Our party is an institution and it will take a new generation to carry it forward to its full potential – Sharlene Cartwright Robinson “History will be kind to her as she blazed a bright trail for many others to follow and admire and made us proud, regionally, and internationally.”

Former lawyer Cartwright Robinson first entered the political arena as a member of the Consultative Forum in 2009 after the suspension of self-governance, serving until May 2012.

In July 2012 she was named deputy leader of the PDM under leader Oswald Skippings and in the November general election ran as one of the 11 candidates for the at large all island seats.

She obtained the highest number of votes winning a seat in parliament and in December that year was voted in as the new leader of the PDM.

Cartwright Robinson later led the party to victory in the December 2016 general election, winning ten of 15 contested seats, and became the first female premier of the TCI. “I remain humbled for the opportunity to serve and know that these last four years when recorded will stand out in the halls of history as a time of great challenge but also a time of great achievement,” she said in a statement on February 25.

The former leader said she will be taking “a long overdue break to recharge” and added she will always be there for the party she had the honour to lead.

“I leave this office with my head held high as did my former leaders and after making significant progressive steps towards a brighter tomorrow.

“The dream of lifting our people up – shall never become irrelevant or grow old. The dream lives on. It shall never die.”

She said the PDM party is an institution and it will take a new generation to carry it forward to its full potential – “to take on the mantle and to usher in a new era”.

“There are a new breed of leaders waiting and many have already entered and I encourage them to stay committed; do not disappear. TCI needs you.”

Cartwright Robinson thanked the party and for the opportunity to lead and for all the support over

the years.

“I have enjoyed a level of confidence that kept me focused even among the criticisms and personal attacks,” she said.

She also thanked the members of the civil service and Cabinet who assisted in delivering on her mandate to uplift and deliver transformational changes.

“I have a record of doing what others have never dared to or done.

I will as before I enter politics, continue my life of service.”

Cartwright Robinson offered her best wishes to the new premier, Charles Washington Misick, and his party in leading the TCI Government.

She said that as the premier and the leader of the PDM, she took responsibility for the many successes and also takes full responsibility for the losses.

“Though many thousands are disappointed around the country, we will do well to remember the best of times.

“This is not the moment to turn on each other; it is not a time for recriminations.

“While it is human to always wonder what might have been, we can forever cherish what has been the many people who were touched by our policies and the many projects we embarked on, with the Vision of 2040 – a blueprint we have left for this new Government to pick up on.”

PDM’s sole seat winner Edwin Astwood is Opposition leader

BY OLIVIA ROSE Former Minister of Health, Hon. Edwin Astwood, is the new leader of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM)’s parliamentary Opposition.

He was sworn in by Governor Nigel Dakin at the Governor’s Office on Wednesday, February 24.

Astwood’s ascension to the role followed the party’s massive defeat in the February 19 general election where he emerged as the sole parliamentary seat winner for the PDM. He will retain his House of Assembly seat for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay – which he has held for eight years - and will be joined by PDM appointed member, attorney Alvin Garland.

Premier Hon. Washington Misick broke the news of Astwood’s new position, at a live streamed swearing-in ceremony for the Cabinet on Wednesday, February 24.

Speaking from the Office of the Premier in Providenciales, Misick said he had had “contacts and congratulations and a pledge” from Astwood.

The announcement of the Opposition leader’s appointment followed the resignation of former premier Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson as the party’s leader.

PDM’s national chairman Douglas Parnell in a statement on Wednesday, February 24, said she resigned on February 20, a day after general elections were held in the territory.

He said deputy party leader Sean Astwood will fulfil her duties until a new leader is selected at June’s convention, while Edwin Astwood will lead the Opposition in parliament.

In her statement of resignation on February 25, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said: “Our party is an institution and it will take a new generation to carry it forward to its full potential.

“The immediate task at hand will be with Hon. Edwin Astwood, who has become the Opposition leader.

“But there is also a whole new generation willing and able to take on the mantle, and to usher in a new era.”

In his biography on the gov.tc website Astwood is described as an

Hon. Edwin Astwood is sworn-in as the leader of the Opposition by Governor Nigel Dakin (Magnetic Media)

“independent-minded person, who is known for being unafraid to speak and hear truth when necessary”.

He is also known for delivering some strong and passionate performances on the floor of parliament, on issues of concern to the community, it adds.

“His values are strongly shaped by his expertise as a health professional and human resources manager, and by his strong moral upbringing.”

As a member of the Opposition, Hon. Astwood’s areas of special legislative interest have been in support for working families and single parents, juvenile justice, healthcare, environmental protection, infrastructure development and upgrading, unemployment and job creation, and the improvement of the economy of Grand Turk and Salt Cay. Parnell stressed that the party

is now gearing its efforts towards rebuilding with an intention to come back stronger. “…which includes diagnosing our loss, modernising our party’s constitution, and making the necessary changes to ensure our success in the next general elections.”

He thanked the candidates who offered themselves in the last elections as well as party supporters.

March 2-8, 2021

NEWS 17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Family continue search for missing father-of-four More than a month after Ruperto Mercado García went missing at sea, his family and friends continue to search for the “cheerful, friendly, hardworking man”.

The lead mechanic on the Tropic Scout II cargo boat, which capsized 40 miles south east of Providenciales on January 27, was the only one of eight crew members that was not rescued.

Police, the Department of the Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), the Maritime Department and the TCI Ports Authority have searched for him above and below the water.

Fifty-seven-year-old Ruperto from Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic is married to Norma

Vasquez and has four children, Ruth, Esther, Jesús and Keyla.

He is about five foot, six inches tall, has brown skin and eyes, sparse grey hair and a scar on his left hand by his thumb.

Anyone with information can contact the police on 911 or the family at kjmv0125@gmail.com The Tropic Scout II left Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic at about 4.30pm on January 26 carrying construction materials, dry goods, diesel and liquid propane.

It was on its way to Providenciales and expected to arrive at South Dock on January 27 at 2pm.

The 180 foot vessel capsized near Swimmers Rock, to the south of the

Caicos Banks, at about 5.10am on January 27, a spokesperson from the DECR said.

A private citizen discovered four of the crew in a life raft at about 5am on January 28 and took them to Blue Haven Dock.

Caicos Express Airways later enlisted a plane which located the upturned vessel, and police boat Sea Pursuit was dispatched.

Marine officers rescued three of the remaining crew members at 10.30am.

All of the rescued crew members were tested for Covid-19 and quarantined while awaiting results.

“The incident resulted in an oil spoil”, according to the police press office, which made the search for the

Ruperto Mercado García has been missing since January 27

boat’s lead mechanic difficult.

As well as the vessel’s fuel, about 30,000 gallons of diesel and liquid propane were secured to the vessel in containers, a DECR spokesperson said.

“Aggregates and other construction material sunk to the

bottom of the ocean at the location where vessel capsized.

“However, three fuel containers were taken from the vessel and brought to South Dock Providenciales, whilst the remainder of fuel containers drifted with the vessel to Great Inagua, The Bahamas.”

FOOD 

Baker and banana bread TCI Culinary Collection would like to showcase avid baker and culinary professor at Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Jedrick Taylor.

Taylor grew up in the twin islands of Middle and North Caicos, and is an alum of Raymond E Gardiner High School and subsequently the TCI Community College.

He was introduced to organic produce from a very early age as well as the Saturday fishing trips, which led to his profound love of homegrown produce as well as line caught fresh seafood.

He obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island.

His culinary experiences include internships at the Radisson Airport Inn, Warwick Rhode Island, the Marriott Forrest of Arden Hotel in Coventry, United Kingdom, and The Grove Hotel in Watford, United Kingdom.

Taylor is a baking fanatic and has recently adopted the sourdough philosophy.

“Food for me is more than eating to full my stomach,” he said. “It is the pleasurable experience of flavour which includes textures, smell, feel and sight of food being prepared.”

You can find him at the TCI Community College’s Providenciales campus moulding the new culinary minds of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BY JAGO MOOR

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.

Simple banana bread is a great ‘go to’ dish if you have any ripe bananas (Jago Moore)

Jedrick Taylor has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson and Wales University

Simple banana bread INGREDIENTS

• • • • • • • •

3-4 ripe bananas 1/3 cup melted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1-1/5 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg and Chinese five spice

METHOD

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and prepare the baking pan you will be using.

• Combine your flour with the salt, baking soda and spices.

• In a separate bowl mix your bananas,

sugar and vanilla.

• Add butter and eggs to banana mixture.

• Slowly add flour mixture to the banana mixture and mix until flour is blended. Do not over mix.

• Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

18

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News

Police quickly recaptured some inmates but hundreds of others are still unaccounted for.

Haiti prison escape: Hundreds of inmates flee from Croix-des-Bouquets jail The Dominican Republic tightly controls the border with its impoverished neighbour, Haiti.

Dominican Republic announces plans for Haiti border fence THE president of the Dominican Republic has announced plans to build a fence along its border with Haiti, which extends for about 380km (236 miles).

Luis Abinader said the barrier would help curb illegal immigration, drugs and the flow of stolen vehicles between the two countries, which share the Caribbean island of Hispaniola.

Mr Abinader said work on the barrier would start later this year.

Haiti is one of the poorest nations

in the Western Hemisphere.

Relations between the two neighbours have been historically difficult.

“In a period of two years, we want to put an end to the serious problems of illegal immigration, drug trafficking and the movement of stolen vehicles,” Mr Abinader said in an address to Congress.

The cost of the project has not been disclosed.

Mr Abinader said the barrier in some “conflictive” sections would

include a double-fence along with motion sensors, infrared systems and facial recognition cameras.

The Dominican Republic, which has a population of about 11 million, has already constructed some stretches of fencing along the border.

It is estimated that about 500,000 Haitian migrants are living in the country - many of them there illegally. In January, the government agreed to help Haiti provide identity papers to its citizens living in Dominican territory. (BBC)

MORE than 200 prisoners are on the run in Haiti after escaping from a jail near the capital, Port-au-Prince.

Authorities said 25 people died following Thursday’s mass escape from the Croix-des-Bouquets prison, including the prison director.

The victims included bystanders who were caught up in the violence, officials said.

One of those who fled, a powerful gang leader named as Arnel Joseph, was killed hours after escaping.

Joseph, still wearing prison ankle cuffs, was a passenger on a motorcycle that was flagged down at a checkpoint, police spokesman Gary Desrosiers said.

The motorcycle failed to stop and Joseph pulled a gun on officers who then shot and fatally wounded him, Mr Desrosiers said.

Joseph was Haiti’s most-wanted gang leader before his arrest in 2019.

Details of the escape are not clear, though it was initially reported that more than 400 inmates had escaped.

Witnesses reported hearing bursts of gunfire at about midday on Thursday and prisoners were then seen running from the prison.

Staff at a nearby clothing store told reporters that they had been forced to give items to the escaped prisoners.

The Croix-des-Bouquets jail was inaugurated in 2012 and was designed for a maximum capacity of 872 inmates, AFP news agency reported.

Frantz Exantus, Haiti’s Communications Secretary, told a news conference on Friday that the jail had held more than 1,500 prisoners before the breakout.

Bahamas: 50% property tax amnesty: huge incentive to persuade families to wipe out arrears PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Monday announced the government’s intention to offer a real property tax amnesty programme while announcing a scheme to offer “upscale” western New Providence building lots to young Bahamians.

Speaking in the House of Assembly Dr Minnis said officials realised recovering overdue property tax has been a long-standing challenge.

“There has been some improvement over the years, but there remains a substantial backlog of real property tax arrears spanning many administrations. My government understands the challenges faced by families and business owners, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 economic downturn.

“To ease the burden on persons and to provide them with some measure of relief, Cabinet has approved a real property tax forgiveness programme that will provide substantial discounts on arrears.

“For Bahamian property owners my government will waive 50 percent of the total amount unpaid

Dr Minnis urged Bahamians to contact the Department of Inland Revenue and take full advantage of this tax forgiveness programme.

arrears for more than 180 days on such property, including overdue tax and accumulated surcharges, where full payment of all amounts due and payable is made on or before the 31st May, 2021.”

For those who are unable to pay 50 percent, Dr Minnis said if they enter into a payment agreement with a 25 percent down payment on or before the 31st May, 2021, the government will waive the total accumulated

surcharge payable on taxes assessed on such property that has remained unpaid for more than 180 days.

Dr Minnis urged Bahamians to contact the Department of Inland Revenue and take full advantage of this tax forgiveness programme.

As regards the initiative to offer building plots to younger families Dr Minnis said he was of the view “our young people deserve” a better chance at living the Bahamian dream

of homeownership, jobs and proper quality of life.

In view of this, he said two areas in the western portion of the island have been identified for lots earmarked for young Bahamians.

The lots are valued at $150,000 but will be sold at a cost of $50,000 or less. Those in the Carmichael area valued at $70,000 are being offered at $15,000.

The programme is being carried out through a public private partnership.

Dr Minnis made the announcement during the start of debate on the 2020 Fiscal Strategy Report and Public Financial Management, Debt Management, Statistics and Public Procurement Bills.

The Killarney MP said: “Many of our young people would find great difficulty in purchasing land within our country and before I expand on that I only want to point out that we have started already with the service lots programme, most recently in Carmichael and there in the Carmichael area lots that would be appraised, that’s with

all the infrastructure in place, would be sold. I know initially we had said $20,000 but Cabinet feels that our young people deserve even a better chance and these service lots with all the infrastructure in the Carmichael area although appraised at $70,000 will be sold to our young Bahamian populace at $15,000.

“Mr Speaker what that would mean, and we have discussed this with financial entities that would mean a $70,000 lot. The government is selling to its citizens for $15,000 and it means that they already have an equity of $55,000 and therefore they can use that equity as a down payment to build their homes as opposed to the obstacles they face today. Never before has this been done.”

He continued: “The demand for this has been overwhelming. Today, I am pleased to advise that through a PPP arrangement, we will soon be launching the commencement of a 150-lot subdivision, upscale within western New Providence area that will be geared strictly to young professionals, young Bahamians, young millennials.

March 2-8, 2021

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News

Pandemic caused dramatic job losses in Bermuda The Cayman Islands government said in a statement that it has completed 60 out of 63 FATF recommended actions to strengthen its anti-money-laundering system.

Cayman Islands, Moroccobased financial firms to be under increased monitoring FOUR jurisdictions, including the Cayman Islands and Morocco, will undergo increased monitoring as they face pressure from a global watchdog to address deficiencies in their anti-money laundering efforts.

The Financial Action Task Force, a Paris-based organisation that sets anti-money laundering law standards, on 25 February added Burkina Faso, the Cayman Islands, Morocco and Senegal to its list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, joining 15 other countries. The identified deficiencies vary for each jurisdiction, but they include maintaining comprehensive beneficial ownership information and expanding the operations of countries’ financial intelligence units, according to FATF. For instance, FATF in a report said the Cayman Islands government needs to impose effective administrative penalties and enforcement actions against entities involved in moneylaundering violations, as well as implement adequate sanctions in cases where accurate and timely beneficial ownership information isn’t provided.

“The Cayman Islands are a major financial center; we expect from countries who have higher risks, we expect commensurate measures against these risks,” FATF President Marcus Pleyer said during a virtual press conference.

The Cayman Islands government said in a statement that it has completed 60 out of 63 FATF recommended actions to strengthen its anti-money-laundering system and has given its commitment to meet the action plan’s requirements to work on the remaining three.

The government said the work was already underway.

Being added to the so-called “grey list” means the four countries and territories will work with FATF on plans to address identified deficiencies in their counter-terrorfinancing regimes within agreed time frames and subject to extra checks, FATF said.

Pakistan, another country on the grey list, has made significant progress in improving its frameworks to counter illicit finance, including demonstrating that its law enforcement agencies were identifying and investigating terrorist finance activities and taking enforcement actions against violations of targeted financial sanctions, FATF said in a report. But Pakistan will remain on the list for increased monitoring; the country still needs to address deficiencies related to terrorist financing, according to FATF. The Washington embassies for Morocco, Senegal and Pakistan didn’t respond to requests for comment.

FATF, which evaluates antimoney-laundering and counterterrorism-financing laws of 205 jurisdictions around the world, said the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted its evaluations of countries, delaying some of its on-site reviews.

“The FATF continues to monitor the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing connected with Covid-19 financial crimes,” Pleyer said.

The organisation, however, was able to discuss a mutual evaluation report on New Zealand virtually, Pleyer said. After 14 months of work, the watchdog found that New Zealand’s measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing are doing well, particularly in the areas of confiscation and recovery of criminal proceeds and international cooperation. But the country needs to focus on improving the availability of beneficial ownership information, according to FATF. FATF also plans to release an update to its 2019 guidance on cryptocurrency regulations. Current guidance states that countries should adopt regulations requiring virtual currency companies—including exchanges and wallet providers— to collect information about their customers and share it with other institutions, including other crypto firms, that receive fund transfers.

ALMOST 3,000 jobs were lost last year as the pandemic wreaked economic havoc across Bermuda, Government said on Friday.

With the Bermuda economy contracting by an estimated 8.5 per cent, the near Depression scale downturn was thought to have cost 2,924 jobs or 8.5 per cent of all jobs held in November, 2019.

The National Economic Report of Bermuda for 2020, released with the Budget on Friday, also estimated that employment income plunged by 7.4 per cent through the first nine months of the year.

However, the impact of the pandemic and the lockdown on Bermuda are expected to ease in 2021, and the report predicts annual growth of 3.5 per cent as pent-up demand is released and the tourism industry begins to recover.

That growth will be welcome after the damage done in 2020, which effectively demolished growth which had been painfully built over the four years.

Curtis Dickinson, the finance minister, noted that even that growth had been inadequate. He said growth at constant prices between 2015 and 2019 had averaged 0.5 per cent, which was too slow to enable the economy to recover from the recession which began around 2010.

Mr Dickinson also said the pandemic had shut down tourism,

Hotel closure contributed to the loss of jobs.

but international business had proven to be more resilient.

He said: “Total visitor air and cruise arrivals fell by historic proportions in the calendar year 2020 (84.4 per cent and 98.3 per cent respectively), and spending was only $69.8 million (-86.6 per cent).

He added “In 2020, the international business sector provided 4,199 jobs in the economy, reflecting a growth of 4.5 per cent year over year, or an increase of 179 posts.

“During 2020, 733 new international companies and partnerships were registered in Bermuda, representing a 7.6 per cent increase compared with 681

registrations in 2019.”

That was fortunate, because along with tourism, construction was hard hit in 2020 with the number of new building permits - a leading indicator of development - dropping by 14 per cent and the value of new projects started, another leading indicator, through the first nine months of the year plunging by 45 per cent to $48 million.

The actual value of work put in mirrored this, falling from $183 million in the first nine months of 2019 to $106 million in the same period in 2020. The report said this was because no new residential projects were underway in 2020 compared to three in 2019.

Jamaica getting 50,000 doses of COVID vaccine from India JAMAICA is set to receive 50,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines from India some time next week, which will be the country’s first shipment of the drug.

Indian High Commissioner to Jamaica Masakui Rungsung made the announcement on Friday morning at the handover ceremony for medicine and supplies worth US$100,000 ($13.5 million) to the Jamaican Government, and revealed that the vaccines should’ve already arrived in the country, but were delayed due to uncontrollable issues.

“Jamaica’s share is ready to be shipped! The vaccines should have been here by now, as we speak. The shipment could not be scheduled on time as expected. This situation has given us sleepless nights. As much as you’re worried, we’re even more worried. But today, just before I came here, I received good news that the vaccines are about to arrive next week,” Rung-sung said, noting that he will not disclose a specific arrival date.

This news follows an announcement from the health ministry, which said 50,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines were expected

Jamaica is among several Caribbean Community countries that will benefit from a donation of 500,000 OxfordAstraZeneca vaccines by the Government of India.

from India. Jamaica is among several Caribbean Community countries that will benefit from a donation of 500,000 Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines by the Government of India.

India has been pushing for Jamaica to get the vaccines, Rungsung said, admitting that he has been pressing several players to

ensure that happens.

“I’ve gone to the extent of pushing our people in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we’ve gone to pushing the Serum Insti-tute who are the producers of these vaccines.

We’ve gone even a step further to go to the Ministry of Civil Aviation to find out exactly what the situation was,” he said.

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World News

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Queen urges people to ‘think about others’ by taking Covid jab THE Queen has urged the public to “think about other people” and get a Covid jab when they are offered one.

The monarch, 94, and the Duke of Edinburgh, 99, received their first doses of the vaccine in January.

In a video call with health leaders delivering the Covid vaccine across the UK, the Queen was asked about her experience of having the jab.

She smiled as she replied: “Well, as far as I can make out it was quite harmless.

“It was very quick, and I’ve had lots of letters from people who’ve been very surprised by how easy it was to get the vaccine.”

The Queen, who rarely talks about her own health, added: “It didn’t hurt at all.”

The monarch said she understood getting a jab could be a “difficult” experience for some people but urged everyone to “think about other people rather than themselves”.

It comes after UK vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said figures suggested 11-15% of people were vaccine-hesitant, with data skewed toward some black and ethnic minority communities.

Some studies have also found

The 99-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth II was moved from King Edward VII’s Hospital, where he has been treated since Feb. 17.

The monarch, 94 received her first dose of the vaccine in January.

disparities between poorer and wealthier areas.

Dr Emily Lawson, who is leading the vaccine deployment programme for the NHS in England, said the Queen’s comments about her vaccine experience were an “incredibly important vote of confidence in the programme”.

“We just want to make sure we create the conditions where everybody feels able to take up the offer of a vaccination when they’re

called,” she said.

“And Her Majesty offering her view on that is a huge boost to our confidence and I hope to confidence more broadly in the programme.”

The Queen also said the speed of the UK’s vaccination rollout had been “remarkable” so far.

Speaking to the four officials overseeing the programme in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, she added: “Keep up the good work.”

Prince Philip moved to specialized London heart hospital PRINCE Philip was transferred Monday to a specialized London heart hospital to undergo testing and observation for a pre-existing heart condition as he continues to be treated for an unspecified infection, Buckingham Palace said.

The 99-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth II was moved from King Edward VII’s Hospital, where he has been treated since Feb. 17, to St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, which specializes in cardiac care.

The palace says Philip “remains comfortable and is responding to treatment but is expected to remain in hospital until at least the end of the week.”

Philip was admitted to the private King Edward VII’s Hospital in London after feeling ill. Philip’s illness is not believed to be related

to COVID-19. Both he and the queen, 94, received a first dose of a coronavirus vaccine in early January.

The Bart’s Heart Centre is Europe’s biggest specialized cardiovascular center, the National Health Service said. The center seeks to perform more heart surgery, MRI and CT scans than any other service in the world.

Philip, who retired from royal duties in 2017, rarely appears in public. During England’s current coronavirus lockdown, Philip, also known as the Duke of Edinburgh, has been staying at Windsor Castle, west of London, with the queen.

Philip married the then-Princess Elizabeth in 1947 and is the longestserving royal consort in British history. He and the queen have four children, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

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Previous investigations were shelved, causing outrage among rights campaigners.

Peru forced sterilisations case reaches key stage

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A KEY hearing is due to be held in Peru on Monday which could see former President Alberto Fujimori charged over the sterilisation of hundreds of thousands of Peruvians.

Fujimori has previously argued that all sterilisations were consensual but thousands of women have disagreed.

Some said they were not informed, others that they were tied down.

The programme was introduced as part of an anti-poverty drive, aimed at cutting birth rates among poor families.

Prosecutors are expected to argue that Alberto Fujimori’s government is responsible for the forced sterilisations.

March 2-8, 2021

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

Covid-19 variants pose ‘real threat’ to vaccine progress, CDC warns

Andrew Cuomo is a high-profile Democratic politician.

Andrew Cuomo: Fresh calls for NY governor to resign over harassment claims NEW York Governor Andrew Cuomo is facing calls from colleagues in his own party to resign after a third woman accused him of sexual harassment.

A photographer told the New York Times that the politician touched her face and asked to kiss her at a wedding.

Mr Cuomo, 63, denied touching anyone inappropriately but apologised if his comments were misinterpreted.

An investigation has begun after two former staff members also alleged harassment.

Following the latest accusation New York Congresswoman Kathleen Rice added her name to the list of people calling for the governor, who is one of the most influential Democratic politicians, to resign.

In the latest allegations, photographer Anna Ruch said that Mr Cuomo put his hands on her back when they met at a wedding in 2019.

She said he seemed “aggressive”

when she removed his hands, and he went on to touch her face and ask to kiss her.

A photograph of the incident was also published in the newspaper. “I was so confused and shocked and embarrassed,” Ms Ruch, 33, told the New York Times.

In a statement released before Ms Ruch’s accusations were published, Mr Cuomo apologised that some things he had done “have been misinterpreted as an unwanted flirtation”.

On Monday New York Attorney General Letitia James announced the first steps in an external investigation of the allegations by former staff Lindsey Boylan and Charlotte Bennett against Mr Cuomo.

The governor became a familiar face internationally for his handling of the Covid-19 crisis, but he is now under scrutiny for allegedly hiding the true number of pandemic-related deaths in New York care homes.

THE spread of highly contagious coronavirus variants is threatening to fuel a “potential fourth surge of cases” in the US, a top health official has warned.

The head of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said she was concerned by recent Covid-19 data.

Dr Rochelle Walensky said about 70,000 new cases a day had been recorded last week - “a very high number”.

There were nearly 2,000 deaths a day in the same period, she added.

“Please hear me clearly: at this level of cases, with variants spreading, we stand to completely lose the hard-earned ground we have gained,” Dr Walensky said. “These variants are a very real threat to our people and our progress.”

There are many different versions, or variants, of Covid-19 circulating, but health experts are particularly concerned about a few which appear to be more contagious, including those first detected in the UK, South Africa and Brazil.

The CDC has predicted the highly contagious B.1.1.7 variant first found in the UK will become the dominant strain in the US this month.

Given this, Dr Walensky said she was “really worried” about reports of US states “rolling back the exact public health measures we have recommended to protect people from Covid-19”.

“We have the ability to stop a potential fourth surge of cases in this country. Please stay strong in your conviction,” she said.

In total, the US has recorded more than 28 million infections and 500,000 deaths related to

Three vaccines against the coronavirus are being rolled out across the US.

Covid-19, according to World Health Organization (WHO) data.

Daily infections and deaths fell steeply after a peak in January, when vaccinations against the disease started to be ramped up.

But the CDC says, until more people are vaccinated, variants could drive a spike in cases, threatening health systems already under strain.

More than 2,463 infections involving variants of concern have been reported, according to CDC data. Most of those cases - at least 2,400 - are of the UK variant.

The true number of people infected by variants in the US is thought to be higher.

There is no evidence that any of the variants causes much more serious illness for most people who become infected.

Scientists believe current vaccines do offer protection against variants as well.

As of Monday, the US had

administered more than 76 million doses of vaccine, CDC data showed.

Overall, the US has given the most doses of any country in the world. But when breaking the figures down by population, looking at doses administered per 100 people, the US ranked fourth behind the UK, the UAE and Israel, according to Our World in Data.

Among the vaccinated in the US are former President Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump, according to reports. They were both vaccinated at the White House in January, an adviser told the New York Times and other US media outlets.

It was not clear which vaccine they had received, but only jabs made

by Pfizer and Moderna had been approved by regulators in January.

A third, single-shot vaccine developed by Johnson & Johnson was approved for use in the US on Saturday.

Nigeria school abduction: Hundreds of girls released by gunmen A group of nearly 300 girls who were kidnapped from a school in northwestern Nigeria last week have been released, a local official says.

The girls were abducted by unidentified gunmen from their boarding school in Jangebe, Zamfara state, on Friday and taken to a forest, police said.

The state’s governor said on Tuesday that the group had been freed and the girls were now safe.

Such kidnappings are carried out for ransom and are common in the north.

Dozens of the girls were seen gathered at a government building in Zamfara after they were taken there in a fleet of mini-buses.

“It gladdens my heart to announce the release of the abducted students... from captivity,” Governor Bello Matawalle wrote on Twitter.

“This follows the scaling of

The girls gathered at a state government building following their release.

several hurdles laid against our efforts,” he added. “I enjoin all well-meaning Nigerians to rejoice with us as our daughters are now safe.”

The authorities said 279 girls had been freed, adding that a figure given last week by police that 317 had been kidnapped was no longer accurate.

One official told Reuters news agency that the discrepancy was because of the fact that some girls had fled shortly after being abducted.

“Most of us got injured... and we

could not carry on walking,” one of the girls told the BBC. “They said they [would] shoot anybody who did not continue to walk,” she added. “We walked across a river and they hid us and let us sleep under shrubs in a forest.”

The group’s release was secured through negotiations between government officials and the abductors, authorities in Zamfara state told the BBC. Mr Matawalle has denied paying for the girls to be released, but last week President Muhammadu Buhari admitted state governments had paid kidnappers “with money and vehicles” in the past and urged them to review the policy.

President Buhari said he felt “overwhelming joy” at the news of the girls’ release. “[I am] pleased that their ordeal has come to a happy end without any incident,” he said.

22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

Lisa Robinson-Hall freed of SIPT charges

BY DELANA ISLES Lisa Robinson-Hall is a woman free of the “stench of the SIPT” now that the Director of Public Prosecution has dropped the two money laundering charges against her.

Following the bombshell announcement on Monday, March 1, of a new SIPT trial minus her presence, Robinson-Hall took a few minutes to thank God, her family for their faith and the DPP for this latest development in a case which she has been embroiled in for the past 12 years.

While the decision comes several years late, her and her lawyers - Oliver Smith and Patrick Peterkin - are nonetheless glad that it finally came, and expected such an outcome at the end.

The three invited the media to a brief press conference at Skippings Law in Grace Bay, Providenciales, to formally speak on the development.

Robinson-Hall told the press: “I am thankful to God for his grace and keeping me this long, having to bear this burden.

“I am thankful to my family and friends, my team here who have represented me and who have stood by my side for the past 12 years.

“I just want to say that I am praying for the ones who are going to be retried and I pray that they too will have the same outcome.”

Smith also offered remarks from a prepared statement.

“We are extremely pleased with the announcement of the DPP

Lisa Robinson-Hall flanked by her attorneys Patrick Peterkin and lead attorney Oliver Smith

today to enter a nolle prosequi in relation to Mrs Lisa Hall.

“The effect of this is to bring an end to this very protracted criminal proceeding against her.

Proceedings which consumed over 12 years of her life.

“Mrs Hall has seen her daughter complete high school and university whilst being weighed down by the albatross of these criminal proceedings.

“In the spirit of collegiality, we would like to commend the Office of the DPP in making this decision and though in our view it came very late in the day, we nonetheless welcome it and again thank the Office of the DPP for taking a second look.”

Smith said the case against Hall was entirely baseless and

unjustified from the outset; and that during the trial his team had made applications to this effect. All of which were denied.

He said he is grateful the DPP took a second look, and special regard should be given to this, but it is not an act that is out of the ordinary.

“We believe there were other reasons why Mrs Hall was brought into the case, reasons that I will not comment on.”

Robinson-Hall was charged with two money laundering counts.

Her lawyer said it was very significant to note that she was not charged with any conspiracy counts or allegations of bribery or fraud.

He stated, as he has in the past, that the money laundering counts

were not criminal transactions in their belief.

“We argued that at all times that these money laundering counts are baseless because they are not based in criminal transactions, we would have argued that to the highest heavens and we would have gone as far as we need to go to exonerate her.”

Asked if he believes the charges against his client could have been abandoned earlier, or a fair consideration could have been given to his initial arguments before the late trial judge, Justice Paul Harrison, Smith was not willing to critique prior court decisions.

He replied: “We have to abide by what the trial judge rules, so at this point I’m not going to critique whether the trial judge

ruled fairly…or unfairly, I think it would be beyond me and I think walking close to a fine line if I do that.”

He maintains that as officers of the court, when the court makes a decision, they are bound by it.

Meanwhile, as to the new trial, Smith said he stands with his colleagues in the new trial.

“We believe that the country has expended enough funds to launch this trial, we believe that if the British government thinks it fit to continue with a new trial that they should assist the funding, it’s not a burden that should be left on this country alone, especially during this time of the pandemic and the resultant negative effects on the economy.”

Smith also alluded to the stench of the SIPT case, and how it has severely impacted the livelihoods of some of the defendants.

“A lot of these guys, their liberty have been taken away from them for the past ten years… some of them are unemployed, some of them are unemployable based on the stench of the SIPT case.

“Whatever point that the British government wanted to make, or whatever points the prosecuting attorneys wanted to make we believe that’s enough, we believe it has been made and it is time for a reconsideration, a similar reconsideration of the charges against the other seven persons.”

Smith warns that the TCI and the treasury could be in for another long haul with this new trial looming.

History book gets revamped for a new generation ‘Turks Islands Landfall - A history of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ has been rereleased as a new and expanded 2020 edition.

The late HE ‘Bertie’ Sadler, a resident of Grand Turk and former civil servant, wrote the book which was first published in the late 1960s and has achieved recognition internationally.

It was published in several formats over the years but eventually went out of print - until the new 434-page hard cover edition was published by the author’s daughter Marjorie Sadler.

The book is rich in illustrations, statistics, historical maps and charts, and recounts in detail the history of the TCI from the earliest records to the present years.

“It presents a compelling argument - shared by many historians - for the theory that Columbus made his first landfall on the island of Grand Turk,” Marjorie said, “and gives an overview of the

Lucayan culture existing on the islands at that time.”

The book also documents the TCI’s colourful past as a rendezvous point for Caribbean pirates and Bermuda privateers and mariners who pioneered the salt making industry in the 17th century.

“In the 18th century, the TCI was placed under a Bahamian custodianship, which didn’t sit well with the Islanders, who later successfully lobbied England for a form of self-government and separation from the Bahamas in 1848,” Marjorie said.

“The period known as the ‘Presidency,’ which followed unfortunately ended in bankruptcy after 25 years, and TCI became wards of Jamaica until 1962.”

She explained that a subsequent realignment with the Bahamas came to an end on that country’s independence in 1973, and the TCI reverted to its status as a

British Crown colony.

The Islands’ political and constitutional advancement then started in 1976 with JAGS McCartney, the first chief minister, is also recorded with events up to the present.

The book’s history includes copious information on the salt economy, and its demise, as well as the settlement and development of the Caicos Islands during and after the Loyalist period.

There are extensive sections dealing with slavery, the role played by religious institutions, experiments in agriculture, the fishing industry and the development of a tourism industry.

The book also contains a vast trove of documented shipwrecks that occurred around the TCI, as well as some of the devastating hurricanes impacting the Islands.

“This work is a valuable resource for students and followers of TCI’s historical background

The expanded 2020 edition of Turks Islands Landfall

and cultural heritage,” Marjorie said.

It is available in shops in Providenciales and Grand Turk

and can also be ordered online via www.turksislandslandfall.com.

Copies will be made available to TCI libraries and schools.

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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March 2-8, 2021

March 2-8, 2021

NEWS 25

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TCI judiciary pays homage to SIPT judge

BY DELANA ISLES The Turks and Caicos Islands judiciary remembers the late Justice Paul Theodore Harrison as a patient, charming man of God, a studious jurist and a teacher.

On Friday, February 26, the court held a remote, ceremonial hearing in memory of the long serving judge who died at his home in Jamaica on February 7 aged 85.

The main ceremony saw members of the TCI legal fraternity speaking about an application to “place the name of the Honourable Mr Justice Harrison OJ CD JP as a judge who served in the TCI judiciary with distinction”.

In attendance at the service was the widow of the late judge, Doreen Harrison.

First to speak to the application was SIPT lead prosecutor, Queen's Counsel Andrew Mitchell.

He expressed condolences on behalf of the bar, to the court, the judicial family in the TCI and Justice Harrison’s family in Jamaica at the loss of such a charming, caring and devoted jurist.

Mitchell said the passing of the judge was a tragic, sudden and shocking loss for everyone.

He heaped praises upon the judge for his integrity, calmness and consideration during the carriage of the five-year long trial, and

throughout his esteemed career.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Jerome Lynch QC - who spoke on behalf of the entire defence team wholeheartedly supporting Mitchell’s motion.

Also speaking to the life and career of Justice Harrison were Deputy Attorney General Khalila AstwoodTatem, Justice Hilary Phillips QC, member of the Judicial Service Commission, and the registrar of the Supreme Court, Renee Mclean.

The doyen of the bar, Ariel Misick QC brought remarks on behalf of the TCI Bar. “We join with his family and his friends in his native country of Jamaica as well as the judiciary of the TCI in mourning his loss.

“The motion is one which deserves the support of the bar and the bar so endorses the motion,” Misick said.

Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang then delivered her ruling on the submissions - the judiciary’s tribute accepting the application to have Harrison honoured.

She stated that even though she only knew Justice Harrison for a short period and only interacted with him via electronic means due to Covid-19 pandemic, he was always a breath of fresh air.

“I found he was sharp and very much in control of the conduct of the case before him, yet humble and always

ready to provide answers without being combative.

“There is so much more to say and not enough words to describe the... patience, purpose, integrity and discipline that he represented.

“I can only give the sum of the matter, that the late Mr Justice Paul Harrison was tall in his professional achievements and as tall in his humanity.”

She said there is no surprise that he is as tall in death as he was in life.

The chief justice’s speech was followed by concurring opinions of Justice Shiraz Aziz and Justice Tanya Lobban-Jackson.

The virtual service also saw sermons from Father Adderly and a rendition of a song by registrar for Grand Turk, Carlo Mason.

These were followed by the presentation of floral arrangements from the judiciary and the TCI’s Judicial Service Commission, accompanied by an expression of sympathy to the widow and the bereaved family.

This was delivered by Zaila Mccalla, former chief justice of Jamaica and member of the TCI Judicial Service Commission.

Justice Harrison died at his home at the age of 85 on February 7, 2021.

Harrison was first appointed to the TCI bar on June 21, 2012, and sworn in

Twenty-six detained after boat makes landfall An undocumented Haitian boat landed in West Caicos on Wednesday, February 24.

Marine branch officers on police boat Sea Guardian were dispatched at about 12.10pm after they received reports of the arrival.

With the assistance of the Immigration Task Force, officers apprehended 26 Haitian migrants.

They took them back to South Dock port in Providenciales for processing and repatriation.

The entire operation was conducted without incident, the police press office said.

The last illegal vessel to arrive prior to that was on January 19, when the Coastal Radar Station told police that it was tracking a “target of interest”.

“The vessel was noncompliant and it was not until after a lengthy pursuit, officers were able to intercept the vessel two miles out to sea.”

Three Haitian men that were on board were detained and taken to

South Dock Port where they were handed over to the Immigration Department for processing and further investigation.

It is an offence to harbour illegal migrants.

Anyone found guilty may be fined $20,000 or be imprisoned for four years, or both in accordance with the Immigration Ordinance 2018.

Anyone with information on migrant arrivals or harbouring can call 911 or Crime Stoppers confidentially on 1-8008477.

on July 10 as the Supreme Court judge to preside over criminal cases arising from the 2008 Commission of Inquiry.

From December 18, 2015, up until the time of his death, he led the corruption trial of former TCI premier Michael Misick, several former government officials and others.

In his native Jamaica, Justice Harrison served as President of the Court of Appeal from 2005-2007,

Justice Paul Theodore Harrison was remembered fondly during a ceremonial hearing

having previously served as a judge of the Supreme Court and a Crown Counsel in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

He was also appointed to the Privy Council of Jamaica on September 3, 2007, and

was named senior member on September 3, 2013.

After he retired as a President of the Court of Appeal in Jamaica, Justice Harrison was much sought after in the region, including in the TCI.

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ENTERTAINMENT

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

Boseman wins posthumous Golden Globe for ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ CHADWICK Boseman was a superhero and now, he is also a Golden Globes winner.

The beloved “Black Panther” actor, who died in August following a private four-year battle with colon cancer, was named the recipient of best actor in a drama motion picture at Sunday’s ceremony for his performance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”

His wife, Simone Ledward, accepted the award on his behalf in a tearful Zoom call.

“He would thank God,” she said, choking back tears. “He would thank

his parents. He would thank his ancestors for their guidance and their sacrifices.”

It’s the first Golden Globes win for Boseman, who portrayed a headstrong horn player named Levee in the movie.

The drama centers on a contentious recording session with groundbreaking blues singer Ma Rainey, played by Viola Davis.

Boseman, who was 43, is also nominated for best actor at April’s Screen Actors Guild Awards for his performance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” as well as best supporting

actor for “Da 5 Bloods.”

Both of those films are also nominated for best ensemble cast at the 2021 SAG Awards, making Boseman the first actor ever to receive four film nominations in a single year at that award show.

China-born Chloé Zhao made history when she won best director for “Nomadland,” marking only the second time in the 78-year history of the ceremony that a female filmmaker has received the honour. Three of the five nominees for best director at the 2021 Globes were women: Zhao, Emerald Fennell for “Promising

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Michael Potts as Slow Drag, left, Chadwick Boseman as Levee and Colman Domingo as Cutler in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020).

Young Woman” and Regina King for “One Night in Miami.”

Zhao joined Barbra Streisand, who won the directing honor for 1983’s “Yentl.”

“Nomadland” also won the top honor of the night, best drama film, beating out “The Father,” “Mank,” “Promising Young Woman” and “The Trial of the Chicago 7.”

“Nomadland” is the first femaledirected best picture winner in Globes history.

Sacha Baron Cohen’s “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm” — starring former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani in the year’s most compromising role — won best musical or comedy and the actor also won best actor in a musical or comedy.

On the TV side, “Schitt’s Creek” and “The Crown” were big winners, taking home awards for best comedy and drama, respectively, as well as acting awards for Catherine O’Hara, Emma Corrin and Josh O’Connor.

“The Queen’s Gambit,” about a damaged chess prodigy, netted a trophy for best limited series and one for star Anya Taylor-Joy for best actress in a limited series.

The hosts of Sunday night’s ceremony appeared on different coasts, with Tina Fey at the Rainbow Room in Manhattan and Amy Poehler at the Beverly Hilton in California, and almost immediately jumped into the show’s biggest controversy, involving the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the body that chooses the winners. (NYDailynews)

Senior Reporter

We're looking for a qualified multimedia reporter who has strong news gathering and writing skills, as well as the ability and enthusiasm to create and maintain a strong and up-to-date online news medium. The position is available for immediate start and the successful candidate will be joining a small, dedicated team covering a wide range of news and features across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Local knowledge is preferred but not essential. The successful applicant should have had experience with community, court and parliamentary reporting. They will also be expected to take photographs and videos, and use social media.

The salary for this position will be dependent on experience.

Write or email the publisher at

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Voting Rights Activist Fannie Lou Hamer, left and Common.

Common set to produce biopic about voting rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer FANNIE Lou Hamer’s legacy will be amplified on film.

Common will officially give the civil and voting rights activist a new voice through a planned biopic project.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the Emmy, Grammy and Oscar winner is on board to produce “God’s Long Summer,” a feature film that “follows Hamer’s rise from oppressive plantation sharecropping system in 1962 Mississippi, where at age 44, she fought against the Southern political establishment and systemic racism.”

Prior to her death in 1977 at age 59, Hamer was one of the most powerful voices of the civil and

voting rights movement, who fought for greater opportunities for AfricanAmericans.

“Fannie Lou Hamer is a revolutionary figure we should all know,” Common, whose real name is Lonnie Rashid Lynn, said. “Her story and impact is evidence that Black history is American history.

We have all benefited from her work and dedication. I feel blessed to be working with this incredible group of producers to bring this story to the screen.”

In 2017, Common became the first rapper to earn an Emmy, an Oscar and a Grammy award, after writing original music for the Netflix documentary, “13th.”

March 2-8, 2021

Classifieds

27

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

28 CLASSIFIEDS A&W WHOLESALE SPENDLESS MARKET Industrial Park Storage Building, Industrial Park Is seeking to employ a

2 STORE ATTENDANTS/ LABOURERS

• Cleaning and watching store.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 332-9037

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

24469

HARTMAN RANSCUIT HANDFIELD #22 SOUTH DOCK Is seeking to employ a

ABCAR PREVET

Breezy Brae, Grand Turk 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: 246-2661

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24507

HARBOUR CONSTRUCTION

#21 CELESTRIAL CIRCLE, WHEELAND Is seeking to employ a

SAMANTHA’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

GRANNY HILL, FIVE CAY, PROVIDENCIALES

COOK

Preparing food, managing food stations, cleaning the kitchen and helping the chefs. Salary $352 per week

THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 649-244-0952

23708

GOOD TASTE RESTAURANT #70 Five Cays Rd

CONTACT: 241-4061

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24488

JEAN BAPTISTE CHARLES DOCK YARD, KEW TOWN, PROVO

PAINTER

Duties: Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces.

Salary $275.00 per week

CONTACT: 342-2000

This position is vacant Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department

24326

STANFORD FORBES

JUBA SOUND, LEEWARD HIGHWAY Is seeking to employ a

HANDYMAN

Fix pipes, paint areas around the house, and clean the yard. Salary: $300.00 per week

CONTACT: 341-6644

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24506

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-8434

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24509

-$6.25 HOURLY Cleaning restaurant.

CONTACT: 246-5186

Belongrs are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24483

M.P. & FASHION STORE

SALES 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

RAINBOW CIRCLE, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties include but not limited to: Carrying out daily cleaning including sweeping, moping, cleaning windows, dusting etc. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays as required. Ability to speak a foreign language (e.g. Spanish and Creole) would be helpful. Salary: $6.25 per hour THIS POSITION IS FOR A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL CONTACT: 232 0918 24476

#12 Musgrove Hill, Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning mopping, Dusting, sweeping and Assisting with cooking and any other chores. Salary: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 242-2887

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This is Firsttime work permit application.

24479

GLOBAL PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Unit #5, #15 Aviation Drive

CLEANER - $6.50 HOURLY

DOMESTIC WORKER

SAMUEL GREEN

Back Salina, Grand Turk 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: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 243-2928

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24523

AYA CONSTRUCTION

WEST ROAD, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Make deposits, count money, opening and closing the office.

OVER BACK Grand Turk. Is seeking to employ a

SONIA GIBBS

SAMUEL MISSICK

MANAGER - $10 HOURLY

CARETAKER LABOURER

Taking care of kids, etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, cleaning ceiling vents, restroom cleaning etc.

CONTACT: 946-4069

• Preparing the workstation for the cook. Keeping the kitchen area clean and tidy at all times.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. This position is for renewal of work permit

CONTACT: 247-1413

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24461

F.A.F CONSTRUCTION

F&G RESTAURANT

24487

#87 MARBY DRIVE, JUBA SOUND Is seeking to employ a

PAINTER

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces.

Salary: $10 hourly

CONTACT: 343-6168

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24463

SAMUEL MISSICK

IMPERIAL SECURITY SERVICES

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: 242-2887

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This is First-time work permit application.

24503

SAM’S SHOP

#12 MUSGROVE HILL, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

TECHNICIAN

Install, troubleshoot, repair and maintain production and facility equipment according to safety, predictive and productive maintenance systems.

Salary: $10 hourly

CONTACT: 342-2511

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

24486

KITCHEN HELPER

• Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site.

• To work 6 days per week Salary: $7 per hour

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently hold these positions 24500

WEST ROAD, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

BACI RESTAURANTE

Bridge Road, Turtle Cove, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

To clean and maintain premises.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 946-2375

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

24489

S&G CONTRACTING CO 11 Mark Cl., Cooper Jack Is seeking to employ a

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

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 hourly

CONTACT: 333-1199

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

24482

CONTACT: 342-5111

Bible St., Behind Mara, Blue Hills. Is seeking to employ a

KITCHEN HELPER Preparing the workstation for the cook. Keeping the kitchen area clean and tidy at all times.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 244-4471 Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

24485

ISLAND LANDSCAPING SOUTH DOCK ROAD, SOUTH DOCK 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.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 342-5808

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

24501

RONAL SAINVILUS South Dock Road 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.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 346-9919

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24490

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BEATRICE ADAMS Prospect #10, Cooper Jack Is seeking to employ a

CARE TAKER

• To take care of an elderly person.

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

CONTACT: 244-8820

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

24497

EPHRAIM LTD

Conch Bar, Middle Caicos Is seeking to employ a

CABINET MAKER • Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

Make cabinets.

• Must be willing to work 5 days a week.

Salary: $15 hourly

CONTACT: 333-8421 EMAIL: MIKE_ARCTCI@YAHOO.COM Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24475

JEAN LAURENT

#18 Shrub Cl., Millennium Highway, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

CARMEN MARTINEZ 237 HIGH LAND ESTATE, 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. Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 341-0323

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24464

ELEGANT BEAUTY TCI

#43 KEVIN QUALITY CLEANING BUILDING, INDUSTRIAL PARK, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking

1 COSMETOLOGIST HAIRBRAIDER $6.50 HOURLY

Hair styling, shampooing, hair relaxers and texturing techniques. Hair treatment, cutting and styling hair in order to maintain customer image.

Hair treatments, braiding etc.

CONTACT: 245-9594

DOMESTIC WORKER

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24491

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

RODEMIDE JOSEPH

PAULA REINOSO PABLO COX

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

24490

24510

CONTACT: (649) 232 0976

24471

WAITRESS

• Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment.

Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 331-9854

24467

Stammer Street, South Caicos. Is seeking a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• 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: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 341-5924

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24462

MERVIN COX

327 Chalk Sound Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands

GARDENER

Able to maintain the landscaping and cleaning of yard.

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND RESUMES TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AS THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD

BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. $6.50PER HOUR 649-231-6710 MERVCO.ACC@GMAIL.COM

24503

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

24474

DANZIEL GIBSON

Black Crow St., Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24481

DALE GRANT

Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

HANDYMAN CLEANER Plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 343-1756

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-1652

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24458

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24505

FRANKLYN WILLIAMS

LA PAUSE STORE

L.A.F CONSTRUCTION

DOMESTIC WORKER

DOMESTIC WORKER

DOMESTIC WORKER

24459

APPLY BY 12TH MARCH 2020 AT HANDMY@TCIWAY.TC OR CALL. 232 7101/231 3967.

POSITION HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDER. BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY. 24504

LABOURER

CONTACT: (649) 244 78 20

#1496 Victory Cl, Kew Town

required at auto repair shop, North Caicos.

Must work 6 days/ week, unsupervise with excellent communication.

Most have 6 years experience, especially in engine rebuilding and refridgeration. Salary is $15 p/hour.

GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

CONTACT: 231-6121

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

EL RANCHO RESTAURANT & CAFETERIAS

MECHANIC

LABOURER

HOWARD DICKENSON

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

AUTO PARTS PLUS

14 Nicole Cl. Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

CONTACT: 232-7554

CONTACT: 348-8986

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND RESUMES TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AS THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD

BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. 649-231-6710 MERVCO.ACC@GMAIL.COM

GRAND TURK South Back Salina

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

JENIESE PALMER

CONTACT: 341-9945

CLEANER

Cleaning and maintaining of Provo Golf Club and the Grace Bay Strip. Be willing to work weekends and holidays. $6.50per hour

DOMESTIC WORKER

ANDREA SAUNDERS

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

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

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

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

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

LABOURER

CYRIL CAPRON

Millennium Hgwy., Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board.

These position is for a first time applicant

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

Residence, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

COX LABOUR SERVICES

854 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES Turks & Caicos Islands

CLASSIFIEDS 29

BACK SALINA, GRAND TURK. IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

HOUSE CLEANING AND LAUNDRY RUNNING OF ERRANDS MUST BE WILLING TO WORK 5 DAYS PER WEEK. SALARY $6.25 PER HR.

CONTACT: 244-3638

24492

Northside, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

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: 341-8154

NORWAY, KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, etc.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 343-6168

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

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24508

24472

MARGARITA A. SMITH

LD CONSTRUCTION

Is seeking to employ a

75 Princess Drive, the Bight Is seeking to employ a

Back Road, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

Cleaning/sweeping, dusting, mopping (general household chores) etc.

Hours are flexible Wages: $6.50 per hour

Taking care of my baby and her needs, feeding, washing and keeping them clean at all times.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

2 HANDYMEN

CONTACT: 242-2191

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24498

MARY MAUREEN WILLIAMS

DOMESTIC WORKER TYPE OF APPLICATION: RENEWAL THIS POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER CONTACT: 232-1686

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

24468

Plumbing work, painting, flooring repair and upkeep, electrical repairs, heating, and air conditioning system.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 331-2525

30 CLASSIFIEDS

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS SYDNEY MARTROU DEAN SOUTH DOCK ROAD Is seeking to employ a

TALMAGE ADAMS Zircon Crest, Millennium Heights, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

HANDYMAN Cleaning of surroundings, trimming of trees, disposing of debris and keeping the properties clean.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

GENERAL MANAGER We attribute the success of our boutique resort on Grace Bay to the strength of our staff. To continue operating at our high standards, we are seeking an experienced General Manager to lead our team. Our ideal candidate will be a proven leader with previous managerial experience, a history of success overseeing operations, excellent communications skills, ability to multitask and attention to detail. Ultimately, you are driven by the desire to work collaboratively and lead a team toward exceptional customer service and efficient resort operations.

OBJECTIVES OF THIS ROLE • Promote and continue the environment of outstanding guest and owner experience • Uphold standards of excellence • Maintain the resort in exceptional working condition • Review and improve resort effectiveness by establishing a highly motivated work environment, overseeing employees and suggesting innovative approaches to improvement DAILY AND MONTHLY RESPONSIBILITIES • Oversee all day-to-day operations of the resort • Ensure compliance with the By-Laws of the Strata by owners and their guests • Recruit, onboard and train high-performing employees • Manage resort maintenance • Professional interactions with resort guests, proprietors, service providers, accountant and other professionals • Provide weekly communication to the Executive Committee, and urgent updates as necessary • Work with vendors to provide cost-effective and efficient resort functions • Resolve internal staff conflicts efficiently and collaboratively while conducting monthly staff meetings to motivate employees and to ensure compliance, standards and resort objectives are met • Work with resort accountant to operate within the annual budget

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Degree in business management or resort management or a proven record in a related profession • Previous team leadership and performance evaluation experience • Working knowledge of island employee requirements and processes SALARY AND BENEFITS • Anticipated salary range of $75,000-$100,000 depending on experience, plus bonus opportunity based on performance QUALIFIED CANDIDATES PLEASE SUBMIT A RESUME AND TWO (2) OR MORE REFERENCES BY EMAIL BY MARCH 19, 2021 TO: 24511

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24470

DEBRA SIMMS

NORTH CREEK ROAD GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

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: 232-1167

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24484

Duties: To ensure premises are Kept clean, also to trim hedges and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-1591

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24518

WAITRESS

Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment. Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 331-1977

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

24460

DESIREE LEWIS

GRAND SOUVENIRS

DOMESTIC WORKER

SALES CLERK

GODET’S ALLOTMENTS GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

#3B Behind Ball Park, Kew Town. Is seeking a

Duties: Regular housekeeping, Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assist with Caring for a child any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 331-8150

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

24515

HARBOUR HOUSE GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

Duties: Greet customers, Receive payments by cash, Credit cards and cheques, Issue receipts and change. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 232-6296

Belongers are encouraged To send copy of their resume To The Labour Board. This position is currently held a work permit holder. 24517

SUNNY FOODS BLUE HILLS

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Phone: 941-8112 Is seeking to Employee an

REFRIGERATION MECHANIC JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS • Proven experience of at least 3 years in a managerial role • Experience of managing and working within an approved budget • Strong decision-making capabilities • Above-average communication, collaboration, and delegation skills • Ability to motivate and lead others while holding employees accountable • Strong working knowledge of operational procedures

VRexco.2021@gmail.com

CONTACT: 331-7010

DOMESTIC WORKER

THE BULLPEN CLUB

• Fabricate and assemble structural and functional components of refrigeration system, using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment.

• Lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle.

• Observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments.

• Test lines, components, and connections for leaks.

• Install wiring to connect components to an electric power source.

• Adjust valves according to specifications and charge system with proper type of refrigerant by pumping the specified gas or fluid into the system.

• Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment.

• Performs planned maintenance, regular servicing, and repairs to refrigeration equipment of all types, sizes, and temperature ranges.

• Coordinates work schedules with other departments and shops in order to keep inconvenience to a minimum.

REQUIREMENTS:

• 4- 5years experience in related field of work • Knowledge of the HVAC or refrigeration tools, materials, and test equipment.

• Knowledge of repair, maintenance, and installation techniques.

• Skill in reading and understanding schematics.

• Skill in analyzing HVAC or refrigeration malfunctions from performance and test equipment readings and determining appropriate repairs.

• Skill in both verbal and written communication.

Salary for this position will commensurate with qualification and experience.

This Position is for a first time work permit interested Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of the resume to the Labour Department.

24494

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TONY’S PLACE Dock Hill, Kew Town Is seeking to employ a

COOK

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: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 241-8917

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

24465

TYRELL CONTRACTING

TRINITY HAIR AND BEAUTY LTD.

Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

Requires a fully qualified experienced

HAIR STYLIST

PLUMBER

Applicant must have at least five (5) years experience in cutting, styling and coloring of all hair types. The normal work week is 6 days however the applicant must be willing to work weekends and holidays, should private events and weddings necessitate this. The remuneration is paid hourly commencing at $6.75 not inclusive tips. This is a mobile service so transportation is also a necessity.

Installs pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids. Installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc. Salary: $600 weekly

PLEASE CONTACT 331 0732 OR VISIT ADMINISTRATION AT UNIT 54 SALTMILLS PLAZA, PROVIDENCIALES WITH A FULL RESUME. THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS FOR A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL APPLICATION HOWEVER, ANY PROSPECTIVE TURKS ISLANDER TRAINEES SHOULD ALSO SUBMIT A RESUME AS WE ENDEAVOR TO EXPAND. 24477

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

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

CONTACT: 231-6584

24502

CLASSIFIEDS 31 UNITED MULTICULTURAL INSTITUTE

332B Back Road, Blue Hills 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.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 242-4551

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24473

VACANCIES ERB CONSTRUCTION

LABOURS & MASONS

$ 6.25- $12 per hour Clean Yards, Move Garbage, cut trees Plaster, put Blocks, etc.

4 B BLUE HILLS Tel: 649 331 1067 Daniel St Fleur

LABOURER

$6.25 per hour Clean yard, cut trees, etc 516 Front Road Provo Tel: 649 242 4617

GEORGE SOLON

DIVER

$6.25 per hour Diving to get seafood, etc.

43 Front Road, provo Tel: 649 344 9209 RENEWAL WORK PERMIT\ BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

24478

PRIME TRADING LTD DBA QUALITY FOOD SERVICE

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

Is now seeking to employee the following position:

OPERATIONS MANAGER As a Operations 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.

BIG BLUE COLLECTIVE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE SCUBA DIVING/WATERSPORTS INDUSTRY #2 Marina Street, Leeward Marina, Providenciales

Big Blue is looking for Turks and Caicos Islanders with outgoing personalities and physical coordination to join a team of knowledgeable and experienced guides to conduct educational and environmentally conscious eco-tours and boat charters throughout the Caicos Islands.

Scuba Diving Instructors Seeking qualified PADI Dive Instructors to conduct dive courses and tours. Applicants must have a minimum 2 years teaching experience and experience with high end vessels and clientele a must. Preference will be given to Turks Islanders and those with professional boating experience or hold a TCI Captain’s license. Other duties include conducting snorkel tours, paddle eco tours and dive equipment maintenance. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week, must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

Current positions help by work permit holders and new positions available.

Salary range: $110 to $150 per day plus gratuities and service charge.

Applicants should apply to the email address below.

Kite Instructors Seeking qualified IKO kite instructors to teach kite courses with minimum 2 years teaching experience. Preference will be given to Turks Islanders and those with extended teaching experience. Other duties include assisting with sales and conducting kite tours and other watersports activities offered by the company. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week. Must be willing to work long days in the sun, weekends and holidays.

New positions open. Salary range: 25-30% of course fee (course rate $175 per hour) plus gratuities. Applicants should apply to the email address below.

The position is not currently held. Turks Islanders are preferred. Average monthly salary $3000 Candidates should apply via email to careers@bigbluecollective.com before the 15th of March 2021, include a resume and a cover letter with a brief description of why they believe they are a suitable candidate to work in the eco-tourism / watersports industry. Applicants should send a copy to the Commissioner of Labour.

24480

• Candidate must have at least 10-15 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 2020, Microsoft Excel, and Inventory control management.

• Extensive knowledge of SMS Front & Back Office POS System • Extensive knowledge of NCR 7456 POS • Extensive knowledge of THYME SOFTWARE • 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.

• Understanding of general finance and budgeting, including profit and loss, balance sheet, and cash-flow management.

• Ability to build consensus and relationships among managers, partners, and employees.

• Candidate must be multilingual.

• Work schedule will include weekends, holidays, as required to meet the demands of the position.

Salary range commensurate with experience.

Email Resume to: sanjay@alliedcaribbean.com This Position is for first time work permit interested Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of the resume to the Labour Department.

24495

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

32 CLASSIFIEDS LAQUITA GLINTON-PARAGH 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 a child any other Chores as needed. SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 243-8126

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

24514

LILLIAN MISSICK

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, door frames. To work 5 days a week. Salary: $7 per hourly

CONTACT: 231 0890

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

24444

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

OUTREACH MINISTRY OF LOVE

WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION

CREOLE BIBLE TEACHER

MASON • Mixes mortar; lays

OF GRAND TURK IS SEEKING TO EMPLOY A

Duties: To teach Creole Bible Classes and to participate in Creole services for the creole body of believers. SALARY: $400.00 per month

CONTACT: 243-4141

Belongers are encouraged to Submit a copy of their resume To the Labour Office This a first Time work permit application.

24516

CUTTING EDGE LANDSCAPING AND DESIGNS 756 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

LANDSCAPING SUPERVISOR

• Install/maintain irrigation system • All aspects of plant installation and care.

• Building Maintenance/ grounds keeping • Pool maintenance Salary: $500 weekly

CONTACT: 333-2621

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

24404

MIRACLE CLOSE, MILLENNIUM HGWY Is seeking to employ a

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

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $14 hourly

CONTACT: 241-5138

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

24455

CLIFTON MUSGROVE

SERVICES BY EA

GARDENERS/LABORERS NEEDED Applicants must be able to work outdoors performing manual and physical labor. They must be able to operate a jackhammer, lawn mower and chainsaw. They will be asked to dig holes, mix and spread topsoil/cow manure and plant. They must be able to speak and communicate in English. Starting salary is $ 6.50 / hr and may be required on weekends and holidays if needed.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS INCLUDING ISLANDERS/BELONGERS CAN SEND APPLICATIONS TO SERVICES BY EA BY E-MAIL TO YVONNE@EAGROUPTCI.COM. SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL BE NOTIFIED BY PHONE FOR INTERVIEW. This position is currently held by work permit holders.

ABEL CHARLES JOSEPH

YELLOW ELDER ST., LEEWARD PALMS Is seeking to employ a

#82 KEW TOWN Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

DOMESTIC WORKER

• 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: $6.50 hourly

• 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: $6.25 hourly

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24449

KARAM & MISSICK ATTORNEYS Is seeking to employ a

PARALEGAL

CONTACT: 343-2280

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

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

24405

• Candidate should hold a law degree from a recognized University, including company law, Probate, Mortgages.

• Candidate must be computer proficient in office software such as, MS Office and Excel.

WATER VIEW ST., DISCOVERY BAY Is seeking to employ a

LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER

Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensuring all rooms are cared for and inspected according to standards.

Salary: $1,200 monthly

CONTACT: 346-1088

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24450

CONTACT: 432-8265

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. 24392

DIDINE BEAUTY SALON AND BARBER SHOP Bishop Plaza, Five Cays 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: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 244-2327

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

24431

1125 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI. Looking to fill up following positions

LABOURER (4)

• To work 6 days, hours of employment are flexible, salary $ 6.25 per hour.

• Duties: unloading containers, assisting the store manager with lifting and moving products, fixing warehouse etc.

• Worked in Supermarkets experience is must.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Competitive salary range between $4,000-$4,500 per month as per experience. Training to help support professional development will also be offered.

Closing date foe applicants March 10, 2021

PURCHASING (3)

• To work 6 days a week, hours of employment are flexible $ 7.00 per hour • Must have Bachelor’s Degree 24457

APPLY IN WRITING WITH CURRICULUM VITAE TO:

Turks and Caicos Islanders should send a copy of application to the Labour Department

CONTACT: 242-2326

LABOURER

GK FOODS

EXPERIENCE

• Must have previous experience as a Paralegal (at least 5 years) with references.

• Experience in managing and operating a law office dealing with litigation in the areas of : commercial, probate, conveyancing, criminal, company, employment, finance.

• Experience in Supreme Court and labour tribunal filing procedures.

• Must be able to multi task and complete assigned task with alacrity.

• Must be a team player and be willing and able to take guidance.

• Must be able to take initiative and work independently.

Karam & Missick Attorneys Suite A203, Regent Village East, Grace Bay, Providenciales

Duties: To clean and Maintain premises of Construction site.

SALARY: $6.25 per hour.

GARDENER

DAVID SMITH

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

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Soil cultivation, digging, and forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting. Salary: $6.25 hourly

DANIE NOEL

BABYSITTER

• Assisting litigation attorneys with trial preparation, drafting of pleadings, legal research in different areas such as commercial litigation, corporate law conveyancing mortgages, Letters of Administration.

• Pre-trial preparation, Preparing trial Bundles, analyzing records for trials, updating respective banks, liaising with search companies.

• Drafting of Conveyances, Mortgages, Contracts, Preparation of Probate and Letters of Administration documentation

SNAKE HILL, BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24406

TOM LIGHTBOURNE DR., MILLENNIUM HIGHWAY Is seeking to employ a

BARBARA ADAMS

47 PALM CIRCLE, LEEWARD PALMS Is seeking to employ a

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24373

CONTACT: 346-1748

CONTACT: 245-3066

AUDREY EWING

• Minimum 6 years of prior related Supermarket work experience is must • Duties: To purchase products, Negotiate deals, Monitor inventory etc.,

SERVICE TECHNICIAN (1)

• 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: Troubleshoot problems in walk-in freezer, refrigeration units, service and maintenance of all the equipment.

Interested applicants should send their resume to gksupermarkettci@gmail.com These positions are all first time applicants 24423

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PAUL BERESFORD CARIBBEAN DIAMOND, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

COOK

• Must have at least 3 years of experience • Salary $300 per week • Duties: Cook and prepare strict diet • Must have a clean drivers license BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPY OF THEIR RESUMES TO LABOUR DEPARTMENT, CONTACT: (649) 232 2137 CURRENTLY HELD BY W/P HOLDER

21854

CHARLIE’S DEPOT INDUSTRIAL DRIVE, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

2 RETAIL SALES SPECIALIST

HOLIDAY CONSTRUCTION BARRACK HILL ROAD GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

MECHANIC

Duties: To Fixing and/or repair vehicles and Ensuring they are in road worthiness Standard and any other duties as assigned By management.

SALARY: $10.00 per hour

CONTACT: 243-5281

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This Position is currently held by a work permit holder. 24519

CHARLES EQUIPMENT RENTAL New Subdivision, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

MECHANIC HELPER

• Sell products and services to customers.

• Explaiing and demonstrating their advantages.

• Process and handle customer payments Salary: $8.50 hourly

Inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotation and changes, wheel balancing, replacing filters. Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 941-4353

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24381

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24452

DIRECT DEVELOPMENT #177 COOPER JACK, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Set up worksite, erect scaffolding, set up forms for the pouring of concrete foundations, hand tools to workers, clean worksite, and take down bracing and scaffolding. Salary: $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-0575

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board A work permit holder currently holds this position 24448

GRANT’S PETROLEUM

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

2 PUMP ATTENDANTS

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

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. Work permit holders currently hold this position 24384

CONTACT: 243-1729

IDALIA LOUISE ASTWOOD NORTH BACK SALINA GRAND TURK Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping Dusting, sweeping and Assisting with a store any other Chores as needed.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 243-0591

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

24512

JOANNA FORTUNATE

South Back Salina, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Regular housekeeping Which includes Cleaning, mopping, Dusting, sweeping and Assist with babysitting any other Chores as needed.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour for each.

CONTACT: 247-1177

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This a first Time work permit application.

24513

CASINO COCKTAIL WAITRESS/WAITER SALARY $ 11/ HOUR

Please drop off CV’s at the Casablanca Casino 226 Grace Bay Rd, Providenciales addressed to HR or email info@ casablanca.tc Tel: 941-3737.

Positions currently held by work permit holder.

24446

DISCOUNT LIQUORS AND WINE CELLAR

DONALD LIGHTBOURNE

LABOURER

LABOURER

DUTIES INCLUDES: • Assist with offloading of containers • Assist with transporting inventory from containers to main warehouse • Stocking shelves with inventory and making sure they are clean at all times

WATERPLAY

Ocean Club, Grace Bay. Is seeking to employ

BEACH ATTENDANTS

• Renting Paddleboards, Kayaks, Hobbies; • Keep beach area tidy; • Clean and secure beach equipment.

Salary at $7.00 per hour PROVIDE APPLICATIONS TO ANDREA RIGGS, 82 CHEROKEE ROAD EMAIL – AR@GRIFFITHSANDPARTNERS.COM

This position is held by a work permit holder Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department

CAROLINA MEDICAL CLINIC Seeking a qualified

CLINICAL BIOCHEMIST FULL TIME

Candidates need 5 years experience in the same field including guest service, knowledge of POS system & the casino industry. Job summary: provide excellent mixology skills, preparation of bar & coolers, control beverage inventory, excellent customer service.

Candidates must be willing to work on weekends, dayshift, night shifts and holidays

#1025 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES

CLASSIFIEDS 33

Overback, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

• Analyzing and testing blood, tissue and urine specimens.

• Using computer aided and automated testing procedures.

• Provide Covid-19 testing.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 1. Master’s degree in

FAX YOUR RESUME TO: 649-941-3338 OR CAROLINAPHARMACY@YAHOO.COM

#23 Parade Ave.Town Center Mall, Downtown. Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labor Department.

24435

DOVE RETAIL STORE

#70 Sam Lightbourne Apt., Airport Road, Providenciales Is seeking a

CASHIER

• Assist customers in and out of the store with merchandise • Ensure a clean and orderly workplace • Any other duties assigned by management Salary $6.50 per hour

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: 946-4536 or email info@winecellar.tc

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24429

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24413

FIGENIE ALEXIS PARKER

ESTEL PLUMBING

This position is for work permit renewal however Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department

24401

GIFT VARIETY SHOP

#4 WILLIAMS STORAGE, FIVE CAYS BYPASS 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: 347-2858

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24428

FIVE CAYS MARINE

Fisheries Road, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

MECHANIC • Fixing outboard engines.

• Must be willing to work 5 days a week.

Salary: $12 hourly

CONTACT: 946-8324

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24380

CONTACT: 247-7980

High Rock, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER • Must be honest, reliable and hard working • Cleaning the yard, trimming the trees and disposing of debris.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 341-4710

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

24411

Clinical Biochemistry from an accredited University.

2. Minimum five (5) years of experience in clinical biochemistry.

3. Speak and write English/ other languages an asset.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

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

• Must be willing to work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 244-3369

#24 LEEWARD HIGHWAY Is seeking to employ a

PLUMBER

• Installs pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids. Installs supports for pipes, equipment, and fixtures prior to installation.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $8 hourly

CONTACT: 241-0397

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24394

E&V EQUIPMENT LIMITED Williams Auditorium, Five Cays Road, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

OPERATOR

- $600 weekly • Drive company trucks.

• Must be knowledgeable with Caterpillar Machines and Cummins Engine.

MECHANIC

- $6.50 hourly Fix company trucks.

WELDER

- $500 weekly Cut, join and tile steel.

CONTACT: 649-941-8494

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24396

EASY WAY

Acting on behalf of

BACI RESTAURANT Turtle Cove. 941-3044

KITCHEN HELPER

-$6.50 hourly Preparing the workstation for the cook. Keeping the kitchen area clean and tidy at all times.

ELIE’S LANDSCAPING CLEANING SERVICES 57 Snake Hills 232-7124

CHEMICAL TECHNICIAN - $350 weekly Spraying chemicals.

Belongers only apply Work Permit Renewals

24434

34 CLASSIFIEDS

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS SPORTS COMMISSION Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies Telephone Land (649)338-7704

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN JOB SUMMARY: The Maintenance Technician is responsible for day-to-the day maintenance of a wide range of building and civil infrastructure assets throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. A good appreciation of the technical, financial contractual and managerial issues affecting the preparation and implementation of maintenance works by direct labour and contractors and asset users is necessary to ensure that works are completed to a high standard, on time and within budget.

The job is based in Providenciales, KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Conducts investigations, assessment, repairs, replacement, safe discard and disposal to sporting equipment, wooden items, electrical fixtures/outlets/equipment, air-conditioning units and plumbing in sporting facilities.

2. Implements and oversees the updating of the assets inventory and condition database.

3. Prepares maintenance budgets and for associated programmes.

4. Assists in the preparation of contract documentation including identifying, scoping and specifying the woks as well as participation in tendering procedures and evaluation.

5. Identifies bulk materials requirements.

6. Develops budget and prepares procurement plans which ensure timely delivery.

7. Oversees on a daily basis direct labour and contracted works.

8. Monitors the performance of contractors to ensure quality.

9. Participates in staff development, training and disciplinary issues as required by department and divisional procedures or as directed.

10. Prepares and certifies contractor payment certificates.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

Applicants should be able to demonstrate: • An excellent understanding of three or more of the following: Electrical works, A/C and Plumbing works/repairs, Building Construction, Road Construction.

• A good knowledge of sporting or other equipment repair and maintenance.

• Good knowledge of architectural design and construction technology.

• A proven track record of demonstrating high performance skills in a related area.

• High level of written and oral communication skills.

• A good command of the use of AutoCAD, and other Computer Aided Design programs. • Knowledge of other computer software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Project Management is required.

• Ability and commitment to work as a team and to meet deadlines.

• Ability to monitor and supervise contracted technical and labourers through all stages of the contracted project / repairs.

• Knowledge of sustainable, green building and technologies and practices would be an asset.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Certification in Equipment Maintenance/ Repair.

• Certification in Electrical Repair.

• Certification in Air-conditioning Unit Repair.

• Certification in Plumbing.

• Certification in Woodwork.

• A Diploma in Civil Engineering or Building Construction or related field or equivalent (desirable).

• Appropriate registration in accordance with the trade.

EXPERIENCE: • A minimum of five (5) years’ experience as Handyman (essential).

• Working experience in the construction field – i.e. architectural design projects, construction management, quality control, tendering process and budgeting (desirable).

• At least two (2) years’ experience managing a team for various projects from conception to completion (desirable).

• Monitoring of technical contractors and/or labourers (essential).

• Some experience in preparing and monitoring budgets (desirable).

Any combination of relevant qualifications and experience will be assessed for suitability.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: • Ability to work unsupervised and complete task on time • Excellent organizational Skills • Speaks, write and understands English • Ability to communicate effectively • Ability to follow oral and written instructions • Able to use a variety of cleaning products and equipment • Knowledge of fire safety procedures QUALIFICATIONS: • A high School leaving certificate or diploma is advantageous • Ability to work cohesively as part of a team EXPERIENCE: • The position required a minimum of two (2) years on the job experience to acquire the necessary competencies to respond effectively to the challenges of the job Any combination of relevant qualifications and experience will be assessed for suitability SALARY: $8 per hour

GROUNDS KEEPER (TWO POSITIONS)

JOB SUMMARY: The Grounds Keeper is responsible for maintaining the landscape of sport and recreational facilities and office locations.

Essential duties include mowing lawns, removing weeds, trimming shrubs, planting new greenery and removing unwanted trees.

The job is based in Providenciales,

(THREE POSITIONS)

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: • Ability to work unsupervised and complete task on time • Ability to follow oral and written instructions • Able to use a variety of cleaning products and equipment • Operating and maintaining hand tools, such as loppers, saws and shovels efficiently.

• Operating and maintaining trucks and power tools.

• Utilizing insecticides, fertilizers and chemical sprays to treat diseases.

• Keeping grounds free from trash, litter and debris, and emptying trash receptacles.

JOB SUMMARY: The job holder is responsible for the interior and exterior cleaning of sporting facilities and offices. Post holder ensures that facilities and office space are clean and remain tidy and orderly.

The job is based in Providenciales

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: QUALIFICATIONS: • A high School leaving certificate or diploma is advantageous • Knowledge of various types of foliage, flowers, trees, shrubs and other greenery, and how to maintain them

SALARY: $33,395 per annum plus relevant allowances

CUSTODIAN

CONTINUED 

March 2-8, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS HABITAT CONSTRUCTION

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS SPORTS COMMISSION Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies Telephone (649)338-7704

1B TDMG BUILDING, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

TWO (2) LABOURERS

ustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Providenciales

Duties: Clean work place, lifting, general construction. Salary $7 per hour

• Knowledge of gardening products such as fertilizers and pesticides • Familiarity with sprinkler systems and other landscaping equipment

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPY OF THEIR RESUMES TO LABOUR DEPARTMENT, CONTACT: (649) 244 5638 CURRENTLY HELD BY W/P HOLDER 24414

EXPERIENCE: • The position required a minimum of two (2) years on the job experience to acquire the necessary competencies to respond effectively to the challenges of the job

J&V CONSTRUCTION #43 BLUE HILLS Is seeking to employ a

Any relevant combination of qualifications and experience will be appropriately assessed.

MASON

• Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $7 hourly

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter and two letters of reference (one preferably from the most recent employer) as well as copies of educational certificates and a copy of the Passport photo page, National Turks & Caicos Islander Status Card (where applicable).

Shortlisted candidates must submit a Police Certificate.

CONTACT: 649-242-2880 Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

Applications should be addressed to The Director, TCI Sports Commission, Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Down Town, Providenciales Applications can be hand delivered, or sent by email to: tcisportsrecruitment@gov.tc

24388

KANISHA B. CAMPBELL #23 Leeward Highway Is seeking to employ a

BABYSITTER

Hand delivered applications must have clearly marked on the envelope the Job Title of position being applied for. On emailed applications, the subject line must reference the Job Title.

• Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

Applications without supporting documents will not be processed We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8TH MARCH 2021

CONTACT: 342-5111

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24389

24417

KETTELIE B. DEAN

GEORGINA BEEN

Breezy Brae, Grand Turk. Is seeking to employ

New Subdivision, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

HOME HELP OR DOMESTIC WORKER • To take care of an elderly woman who can no longer care for herself. Duties include, Bathing, cleaning, and small duties required by the woman to make her comfortable.

• Hours of work are Monday-Friday, 8am to 4pm daily.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

LABOURER

Cleaning of yard, store and my surrounding and disposing of all debris.

Salary: $6.50 hourly

CONTACT: 344-9391

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

24456

CONTACT: 649-231-4423

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24433

HAIRBRAIDING BEACH M.P #1030 THE BIGHT, LEEWARD HIGHWAY Is seeking to employ a

HAIR BRAIDER

• Braiding clients’ hair in different styles.

• Must be willing to work 5 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 345-7087

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24376

J & H PAINTING & DÉCOR

# 6, Paul Gardiner Plaza, Millennium Highway, 241-5286. Location: Providenciales

PAINTER

HYACINTH BEEN 104 WALTER COX DRIVE, KEW TOWN Is seeking a

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $300 weekly

CONTACT: 244-1490

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 23487

ADNER LOUIS

BEHIND MARAH, BIBLE STREET # 183 Telephone: 342-5354

LABOURER

His responsibilities are pick up years waste and collect leaves, clean the yard with sweeper, lift garbage bags and cans into garbage truck, pick up yard waste and tree limbs, repair broken furniture and assist with other work when needed.

SALARY: 6.25 per hour Renewal, this position is currently held by a work permit holder 24442

CHURCH OF GOD ABUNDANT LIFE UP THE HILL, KEW TOWN. 241-0452 Pay: 6.25 per hour

LABOURER

Painting indoors and outdoors, painting exteriors and interiors of building using spray guns, brushes and rollers, complete indoors and outdoors residential of commercial construction project.

Salary: $ 8.00 per hour

Keeping the church clean and tidy between events, services, and various church activities, clean the yard remove trash, trim the trees. Cleans the sanctuary thoroughly after services, including vacuuming. Wipes down windows, including stained glass. Empties the wastebaskets and removes any other debris in communal areas.

RENEWAL, BELONGER WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE

Renewal. This position is held by a work permit holder, Belonger will be given first preference24443

2400

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS SEAFOAM VILLA LEEWARD, REQUIRES A

BUTLER The successful candidate should possess the following: • Self-motivated, highly detail-oriented individual • Prepared to work long, inflexible hours including weekends and holidays • Minimum of 2 years’ experience with villa industry • Possess an excellent awareness of housekeeping standards • Clean driver’s license • Willing to be on call 24/7 when guests are in residence • Have an excellent command of English • Computer literate in order to present incidental guest charges to the Property Manager • Assist a private chef and serve as may be required • Be completely flexible and willing to multi-task and perform other duties as may be required • Food and beverage skills Salary is set at $1,500.00 per month.

Turks & Caicos Islanders and PRC Holders with the right to work will have preference. Interested applicants are urged to apply by submitting a cover letter and resume together with certifications to 44 Stingray Road, Behind Glass Shack, Providenciales and also to the Labour Department.

This position is a new position.

24118

36 CLASSIFIEDS LJ CONTRACTING SERVICES Kew Town, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Set up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, lay out tools, mixing concrete, hand tools to workers, and cleaning work site.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 331-8546

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24430

SNIP AND CLIP #107 THE BIGHT, LEEWARD HIGHWAY Is seeking to employ a

BARBER

MANPOWER SERVICES 3 Hope Street, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking to employ a

MASON

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

Salary: $10 per hour

MARIE C. WILLIAMS/ PIERRE LOUIS TEREMY, FIVE CAYS 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: $350 weekly

SEACOR ISLAND LINE

SCOODIE CONSTRUCTION

SAG CONSTRUCTION

#16 SOUTH DOCK ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

CONTACT: 348-5921

WHEELAND Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

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 hourly

Must be willing to work 5 days per week. Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24427

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24395

STEVEN JOSEPH HEGEWALD

T&M CONSTRUCTION

PAINTER

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces. Salary: $9 hourly

CONTACT: 649-242-5459 Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24408

CONTACT: 941-5411

#22 OCEANVIEW DRIVE, RICHMOND COMMONS PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

CONTACT: 243-4905

#34 MILLENNIUM HIGHWAY, BLUE HILLS Is seeking a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: Cleaning mopping, Dusting, sweeping and, Polishing and other household Chores. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 232-2128

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a work Permit holder. 24410

PAINTER - $8.50 HOURLY

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

#112 Blue Mountain Road, Blue Mountain, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

MASON

Mixes mortar; lay bricks, stones and/ or concrete. Salary: $10 hourly CONTACT: 649-231-6889 Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position

24432

TCI DREAMS CONSTRUCTION

#55 Boddle Way, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

2 GENERAL WORKERS

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls.

Filing paperwork, answering calls.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 245-3160

CONTACT: 243-8876

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. Work permit renewal

24406

NATHAN G. SMITH

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

24447

24378

CONTACT: 241-7364

RIGBY HILL, FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER

Duties: shelf stocking, cleaning and other general tasks. Salary: $6.25 per hr. All applicants must be willing to work 6 days a week including holidays

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

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $7.50 per hour

SNR CONTRACTUAL SERVICES

is seeking to employ a

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24382

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments. Salary: $6.25 hourly Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24377

MJ VARIETY STORE

PLEASE DROP OFF RESUMES TO MJ VARIETY SHOP, #12 OLD AIRPORT ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES. OR CALL 649-241-6097. THIS POSITION IS FOR A FIRST TIME APPLICANT, BELONGERS CAN ALSO DROP OFF THEIR RESUMES TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT, PROVIDENCIALES.

CONTACT: 241-4976 EMAIL: MANPOWERSERVICES@HOTMAIL.COM

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Duties: To ensure premises are Kept clean, to ensure vehicles Clean after rental returns also to assist other workers and any other duties as may Be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 231-4856

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is a first time work permit application.

24439

MONTE RESTAURANT 12, AIRPORT ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

ASSISTANT COOK

Previous experience 3 years necessary. Duties: Prepare Food, Maintain work area clean, follow standards & procedures. Hours include Late Nights, Week Ends and Public Holidays. Salary $6.50 per hour BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPY OF THEIR RESUMES TO LABOUR DEPARTMENT, CONTACT: (649) 941 7331 CURRENTLY HELD BY W/P HOLDER 24402

ROUDELINE ELIENOR #84 South Dock Road 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 6 days a week.

Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 341-6778

M.S CONSTRUCTION 1B TDMG BUILDING, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

CARPENTER

Duties: READ PLANS, INSTALL FIXTURES, CABINETS, WINDOWS AND HANG DOORS. Salary $10 per hour BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPY OF THEIR RESUMES TO LABOUR DEPARTMENT. CONTACT: (649) 333 0888 CURRENTLY HELD BY W/P HOLDER 24416 ROBINSON’S APARTMENT COMPLEX AND ROBINSON’S RESIDENCE & APARTMENTS “TOMPA’S COTTAGE”

41 Wilson Circle, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

To carry out and assist with continuous maintenance work namely, painting apartment interior & exterior doors, ceiling, renovations, laying tiles, repairs to furniture, fixtures and fittings and all general maintenance work. Salary: $6.25 hourly

CONTACT: 232-5222

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24390

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board

VAGUY VILMAR

THE NANA HAIR CENTER BOUTIQUE

#12 Wilson Circle, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

24383

BUILDING #17 UNIT #4 SPOT PLAZA, DOWN TOWN Is seeking to employ a

NAIL TECHNICIAN

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

Basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing. Pedicures and the application of acrylic toenails. Salary: $7 hourly

CONTACT: 346-0002

CONTACT: 344-3138

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

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24403

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24393

NAOMI BEEN

J.C.A. BOUTIQUE

FERGUSON WILLIAMS

24409

Palm Grove, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

SOUTH BACK SALINA GRAND TURK

LABOURER 2 STORE HELPERS

Duties: To ensure premises are Kept clean, also to clean vehicles and any other duties as may be necessary.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 242-1993 Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is a first time work permit application.

24441

DUTIES: To assist with open and Prepping store for the days activities set out merchandise for customers to view, to offer assistance and ensure shelves are fully stocked.

SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 243-2129

Belongers are asked to submit a Copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This is a first time work permit Application.

24438

Moxey Road, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER Duties: To ensure premises are Kept clean, also to assist skilled workers and any other duties as may be necessary. SALARY: $6.50 per hour.

CONTACT: 241-5759

Belongers are encouraged To send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This is a first time work permit application.

24440

March 2-8, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

M.S CONSTRUCTION 1B TDMG BUILDING, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER

Duties: Clean work place. Salary $6.50 per hour BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND COPY OF THEIR RESUMES TO LABOUR DEPARTMENT, CONTACT: (649) 333 0888 CURRENTLY HELD BY W/P HOLDER 24415

ROBERTS AGENCY ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENTS

L.A.S. CONSTRUCTION 45 South dock road

OBED CONSTRUCTION #243 FIVE CAYS Is seeking to employ a

CARPENTER

• Follow blueprints and building plans. Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $8 hourly

CONTACT: 346-1728

Belongers are encouraged to apply 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 24391

RCO LTD

#353 GRACE BAY ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking a

$10.00 per hour Painting, priming, scraping off old paint etc.

SUNSHINE NURSERY

2 GARDENERS $6.50 Hour Maintaining plants

CALL 649 241 2043 FOR MORE INFORMATION THESE POSITIONS IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT

24436

CARPENTER

• Follow blueprints and building plans to meet the needs of clients. Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $8 hourly

PAINTER

Sunshine Way, Grace Bay

OVANDO CONSTRUCTION

#101 Courd Suites, Grace Bay Is seeking to employ

BAKER - $6.50 hourly

Baking cakes and desserts.

CONTACT: 241-6698

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board. Work permit holders

CONTACT: 649-331-5498

24386

PROVO POOL SUPPLIES Gusa Building, South Dock Is seeking to employ a

P&D EMPLOYMENT

P&D EMPLOYMENT

CARIBBEAN CONSTRUCTION BUILDERS

NMS BEAUTY SALON

Acting on behalf of

Acting on behalf of

Sam’s Building, Downtown Contact: 345-6278

#99 Leeward highway. Contact: 946-5907

TILE SETTER - $10 HOURLY

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

CARPENTER - $10 HOURLY

Follow blueprints and building plans to meet the needs of clients.

Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding.

Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials.

FINISH CARPENTER - $10 HOURLY

Building cabinets and vanity.

MASON - $10 HOURLY

Repairs, maintains and alters buildings, retaining walls and other brick or stone edifices. Mixing concrete, laying blocks and plastering.

Belongers are encouraged to apply to the Labour Board

24426

POSEIDON CHARTERS Turtle Cove Marina Is seeking to employ a

POSEIDON CHARTERS

COSMETOLOGIST - $7 HOURLY

Shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. Makeup, dress wigs, perform hair removal, nail and skin care services.

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD24424 P&D EMPLOYMENT Acting on behalf of

Turtle Cove Marina Is seeking to employ a

GRACE BAY WATERSPORT ADVENTURES

STORE CLERK

• Must have good computer skills, a valid driver’s license and knowledge of quickbooks.

• Count and collect payments.

• To work 6 days a week.

Salary: $7.50 hourly

CONTACT: 232-3544

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24374

5B Sea grape Dr., Long Bay Highway Contact: 332-1280

MECHANIC - $10 HOURLY

DECK HAND

Clean and maintain boat. Salary: $8 hourly CONTACT: 232-3633 EMAIL: INFO@ POSEIDONTCI.COM

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24454

Inspecting and testing vehicles and completing preventive maintenance.

BOAT CAPTAIN Perform all maintenance and mechanical needs.

Salary: $14 hourly

O.J DELIVERY SERVICES 56 Analee Ave., Millennium Hgwy., Blue Hills Contact: 241-1424

CONTACT: 232-3633 EMAIL: INFO@ POSEIDONTCI.COM

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

24453

LABOURER - $6.25 HOURLY Loading and off-loading of freight, cargo or materials to and from destination.

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

24425

LOVE PUMPKIN LTD Parrot Cay

FINISH CARPENTER

• Sound knowledge of commercial construction tools and materials • Profound knowledge of carpentry tools and equipment for finishes • Exceptional ability to interpret construction and fabrication drawings • Supervise Application of Coatings to Finished Products • Analyze carpentry work and

carryout on site altercation work.

• Establish appropriate dimensions of wood stock required for finished products • Proven experience for working with other technicians.

• Extensive knowledge and work experience with exotic woods such as Teak, Ipe, Mahogany, Balau, Kapur, Bankirai

• 20 years minimum experience • Prepare Schedules and take offs for processing material orders • Inventory analysis of stock • Quality control of high end finished materials • Electric vehicle maintenance • Painting experience • Starting Salary $14.00 per hour

This position is currently held by a work permit holder. Interested Belongers may apply with Labour Department Employment Services or send resume to: ageller16@aol.com

24422

Breezy Brae, Grand Turk Is seeking to employ a

PLUMBER/ MECHANIC Duties: Read blueprints Install, fit cut Plumbing pipes. Must be will to work Six days a week.

Salary: $12.00 per hour.

CONTACT: 242-1358

Belongers are asked to Send a copy of their Resume to the Labour Board. This position is currently held by a Work Permit holder.

24437

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Complete ground works as directed by the Property Manager which include but not limited to maintaining landscaping, trimming shrubs, spraying, picking up trash, upkeep of sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, cleaning dumpster areas • Must have knowledge of maintaining and repairing irrigation system • Must have the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 150lbs

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Unit #5 Kishco Plaza, Leeward Highway Is seeking to employ a

TECHNICIAN • 5 years’ experience and can work 6 days per week.

• Performed high quality repairs and refurbishment of electronic devices: phones/ tablets/ laptops/desktops/ servers/etc. including Assembling/ disassembling, testing, trouble shooting and micro soldering and circuit board repair.

• Computer skills including Word, Excel.

• Must be well organized, ability to multitask with strong work ethics. Good verbal and written communication skills in English.

Salary: $7.50 hourly

CONTACT: 243-4048

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

GARDENER

LABOURER

VALUTECH LTD

24379

E & V CONSTRUCTION

The Somerset Strata Management Co Ltd, is seeking a qualified Belonger who possess the listed requirements are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should have luxury resort experience, professional attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently

• Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on plumbing and AC systems • Paint and repair drywalls and exterior walls stucco along with performing routine maintenance jobs and repairs around the property • Must have the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 150lbs

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guests • Must have clear English communications skills (written or oral) • Previous experience in this area would be an asset Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience

Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to: JOANNA IVASIUK THE SOMERSET RESORT ON GRACE BAY JIVASIUK@THESOMERSET.COM

Submissions for this job position should be received no later than February 21

2021

38 CLASSIFIEDS BELLA ROSE HAIR CENTER & SPA

BAY BISTRO

Restaurant/Clive Whent #2 Princess Dr., The Bight Clean restaurant daily

#6 KISHCO PLAZA, LEEWARD HIGHWAY Is seeking to employ a

Ensuring the availability of clean dishes by bussing tables

NAIL TECHNICIAN

2 LABOURERS

2 DISHWASHERS

2 KITCHEN HELPERS

Helping with the preparation of food.

NANNY

Cooking, cleaning, washing and iron.

PROVO STORAGE Cooper Jack Road

ASSISTANT STORAGE MANAGER

Overseeing operation in facility.

Email: bassett-27@hotmail.com $6.25-$12 hourly Work permit renewal BELONGER CAN ALSO TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT CONTACT: 242-8792 24451

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Basic manicures, artificial nails, gel nails, hand massages, nail fills, nail repair, and nail polishing. Pedicures and the application of acrylic toenails. Salary: $300 weekly

CONTACT: 247-4090

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

24375

BIG MAMA SHOP Granny Hill, Five Cays Is seeking to employ a

STORE HELPER

Clean store, restock shelves. Salary: $6.25 hourly CONTACT: 649-245-2990

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. A work permit holder currently holds this position 24371

BUBBLE SHINE CLEANING SERVICE #3 BLACK CROW ROAD, KEW TOWN PLAZA Is seeking to employ

3 FLOOR POLISHERS

CARIBBEAN BUILDERS #12 DOCTORS ROAD, CHALK SOUND Is seeking to employ a

FINISH CARPENTER

• With different experience in cleaning.

Salary: $6.25 PER HOUR

• Trimming wooden structures and ornaments and complete final details.

Installing windows and doors, finishing rough edges, and making adjustments.

• To work 5 days a week.

Salary: $12 hourly

CONTACT: 649-348-7102 OR BUBBLESHINETCI@GMAIL.COM BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD THIS POSITIONS ARE FOR FIRST TIME APPLICANTS 23977

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board This position is currently held by a work permit holder 24397

• Polish floors Machine maintenance personnel • Fix cleaning machines

GENERAL CLEANER

CONTACT: 244-0065

CASABLANCA CASINOS

226 Grace Bay Rd, Provo

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties: regular housekeeping, cleaning mopping, sweeping, ironing, washing, dusting, etc. Salary: $6.50 per hour CONTACT: 649.941.3737 OR EMAIL RESUME TO INFO@ CASABLANCA.TC

This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

Belongs are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24445

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

O P P O R T U N I T I E S LABOURER

(5 years’ experience ) full time position. Minor repairs, keeping compound clean from debris. Salary $8.00 per hour

GARDENERS 2

(5 years’ experience) full-time position. Resort experience in maintaining the beauty and health of plants, flowers, outdoor grounds and trees on Pine Cay. General maintenance tasks including designing, producing, renewing and preserving outdoor spaces. In depth knowledge of plants species, pests, fertilizer, pruning and water guide. Salary $8.00 per hour

HOUSEMAN

(5 years’ experience) in a luxury resort environment. Knowledge of related cleaning products and the correct usage. Assist in the daily operation of hotel & villa housekeeping duties. Some heavy lifting may be required. Some shifts may require staying on Pine Cay. Salary $8.00 per hour Security Specialist K9 Handler/Trainer (10 years’ experience) in military or law enforcement. Patrolling the Cay with K9 security dogs. Responsible for the care and training of dogs, security bag checks, check in/out any contractors, monitor, review and repair security cameras, respond to incidents at all hours/anytime. Must be prepared to work evenings, holidays and weekends. Must have first responder and firefighting training certificates. Be able to instruct and use K-9 search, apprehend and safely detain persons involved in or attempting criminal activities. Protect all property of the island, including homeowners, guests and staff. Salary commensurate with experience

HOTEL FRONT DESK AGENT

(5 years’ experience) guest service experience in a luxury resort environment. P.O.S. experience a must. Night audit or accounting knowledge would be an asset. A second language would be preferred by not mandatory. Some shifts may require you to stay on Pine Cay. Salary $8.00 per hour

CEI BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS

Exquisite Quality – Exceptional Value is what we are about!

With over 50 store locations throughout the western hemisphere as well as on board the Norwegian Cruise Liners, CEI – a proud member of the DUFRY Group, is one of the most trusted duty free jewelry brands. Dedicated to excellence in all that we do, we thrive on individual commitment to a team effort. Our customers are assured Excellence in Service, Excellence and Value in the products we sell and we do so in a fulfilling and enjoyable way.

We now wish to recruit a driven and customer- centric Sales Team to provide a complete shopping experience for our customers. Our team members enjoy a range of benefits which include competitive sales commission and bonus opportunities!

RETAIL SHOP SUPERVISOR Responsible for supporting the Shop Manager in managing the store and the shift team. To ensure proper maintenance of inventory controls according to established company policy and that the store provides the highest level of customer service.

Ideal candidate should possess three years retail experience with at least one year in a supervisory role. Salary $3,000 per month If you are interested in representing the CEI brand and will be committed to ensuring the CEI way of selling, we invite you to submit your Letter of Application & Curriculum Vitae with full details of your experience, achievements and qualifications, via email to:

FINE DINING SERVERS

44302@dfch.com Subject: CEI Turks & Caicos Team Opportunity

These positions are for first time applicants.

Expressions of interest should be received no later than March 23rd, 2021 to be considered for this role. Only suitable applicants will be acknowledged

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interested applicants can email their resume to: resort@meridianclub.com Belongers are encouraged to submit a copy of their resume to the Labor Department

A current police certificate of character is required as a condition of employment Belongers are encouraged to submit their resume to the Labor Department These position are for renewals

(5 years’ experience) fine dining experience in a luxury resort environment. Wine knowledge an asset. Required to stay on Pine Cay during shifts. Salary $8.00 per hour

24496

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.01

ADVERTISE

NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE TITLE NUMBER SECTION ISLAND 50110/12 SANDY POINT NORTH CAICOS

IN THIS SPACE! ONLY

$33

PER WEEK

Whereas, GARY ARNOLD HODGKINS of 13545 111th STREET, FELLSMERE, FLORIDA, USA, has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) issued in the name of GARY ARNOLD HODGKINS was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found.

Take notice that I, Toni-Ann Foster, Acting Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new Land Certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 17th day of February 2021.

CALL 946-4664 JEAN DELINX

#3 PALM GROVE APT. THE BIGHT, PROVIDENCIALES Is seeking to employ a

Signed .............................................................................................

Witnessed .......................................................................................

24493

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

MUSICIAN Duties will include playing of Piano Keyboard, Training for Music Department, Weekly vocal training for Praise Team, Choir, Music class.

Work hours include the following every church service, special functions and Events. Week work schedule must be flexible, salary base on experience.

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 NUMBER 941-4840 THIS POSITION IS FOR WORK PERMIT RENEWAL BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT A COPY TO THE LABOR DEPARTMENT

CONTACT: 346-6132

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board 24372

24398

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

ACTING ON BEHALF OF OUR CLIENT

CARPENTER HELPER -$8.00P/H

Install structures and fixtures.

NEKO RIGBY

21 Ruby Crest, blue hills Tel: 244-2606

MAINTENANCE $6.50 P/H plumbing, painting, upkeep electrical repairs.

TCI DRINKING WATER

Five Cays, provo

Tel: 244-5050

TRUCK DRIVER - 6.25 P/H Deliver water

FINAL PREPARATION STRIKE

South Dock Rd, provo Tel:341-8585

MASON $7.00 P/H

fabricate repairs, maintain walls etc.

$7.00P/H

Install structures and fixtures

UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH T.C.

Kishco Plaza, Leeward Hwy, Tel:649-231-3894

PASTOR - 6.25 P/H

full time ministry preaching.

FACES AND FINGERS

BELIEVE CONSTRUCTION

#12 courtyard plaza, provo 941-4411

CARPENTER HELPER -

applying nail polish, acrylics or other nail art.

Blue hills, provo Tel:345-7331

Belongers are encouraged to Send a copy of their resume To the Labour Board. 24407

MASON NEEDED – $8 HOURLY

The successful candidate must be: Physically fit and able to lift and carry 50lbs or more.

Able to perform basic masonry skills such as build walls, lay blocks, mix concrete and plaster. Must be knowledgeable of related tools, masonry techniques, equipment and materials and skilled in alterations, repairs, and maintenance of masonry structures and surfaces POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND RESUME TO JESSICA HALL, 137 LONG BAY HIGHWAY, JESSHALL137@GMAIL.COM AND LABOUR EMPLOYMENT SERVICES 24399

NEW INDIAN TAKE OUT RESTAURANT REQUIRES A

KITCHEN HELPER

• The successful candidate must be familiar with Indian cuisine and preparation.

• Maintain cleanliness of cooking and surrounding areas; • Work independently in prepping meat and vegetables; • Assist with serving guests with takeout service; • Knowledge of cleaning and maintaining a Tandoor Oven; • Salary scale between $1,200.00-$1,400.00 per month; ONLY BELONGERS, NATURALIZED, AND PRC HOLDERS WITH RIGHT TO WORK WILL BE CONSIDERED. APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO SURESH JAGANATHAN, 12 CHANDELLE DRIVE, OFF VENETIAN ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES, EMAIL – SJCURRYCLUB@ GMAIL.COM, AND COPY TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.

This is a new position.

208 LONG BAY Is seeking to employ a

57 Royal Ave, Providenciales is seeking a

Glass Shack, provo Tel; 241-6380

CONTACT: 343-9412

JESSICA HALL

46 Leeward Highway, Providenciales

JANIC EWING

JERICHO BAPTIST CHURCH

MARVIN MISSICK

BABYSITTER

Taking care of child.

Salary: $300.00 per week.

CLASSIFIEDS 39

NAIL TECHNICIAN $6.25P/H

BELONGER ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEND A COPY OF THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR BOARD. THESE POSITION IS CURRENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDER 24420

RESORT ASSISTANT MANAGER PORTS OF CALL IS SEEKING TO HIRE AN ASSISTANT MANAGER

DUTIES TO INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO: • Assist Resort Manager with the daily operations of the resort incl overseeing various department supervisors and guest relations.

• Oversee the operation of the 3 villas.

• Oversee the operation of the retail plaza.

• Manage human resource duties for approx 35 team members.

• Handle small product pickups and deliveries .

• Other duties as required.

Applicants must have a minimum of 3 yrs hotel supervisory or management experience, have strong organizational, communication and computer skills, be willing to work 11 days in a two week shift and have full-time access to a personal vehicle.

SALARY AND BONUS PACKAGE TO REFLECT QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION LEVEL AND EXPERIENCE

Resumes should be sent to dpapke@portsofcallresort or dropped off at the resort.

THIS IS NOT A WORK PERMIT RENEWAL AD-POSITION TO START APRIL 3/21

24419

40

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

March 2-8, 2021

Covid Brazil variant ‘may spread more easily’ THE Brazil coronavirus variant now found in the UK appears more contagious and may evade immunity provided by past infection, scientists say.

Experiences from Manaus - the Amazonian city hit hard by the P.1 variant - suggest it could be up to twice as transmissible as earlier Covid there, the first detailed study suggests.

The preliminary work puts the chance of reinfection at between 25% and 60%.

But experts say this should not be used to predict what may happen in the UK. Indeed, one of the lead researchers said it was unlikely P.1 would quickly take off in Britain when only six cases had been identified and these were being closely monitored.

Infectious diseases expert Prof Ester Sabino, from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, said: “You need many introductions [of a virus] to start an epidemic. Six is very few.

I would say if you take care and do contact tracing, this is going to decrease.”

Professor Sharon Peacock, who is director of the UK’s centre leading on genetic testing of coronavirus, said: “We are taking appropriate action. These are very interesting and important findings for Brazil, but how they relate to the UK is yet to be determined.”

What did the study find?

The researchers have been tracking coronavirus in Brazil for nearly a year now. Manaus, like many other regions around the world, encountered a large first wave in the spring of 2020.

Brazil has had a whopping 10.6M cases of Covid-19.

Lots of people were infected with the original version of the virus at that time, with blood test results suggesting as many as three-quarters of the population getting some degree of protection or immunity from this exposure.

Despite this, people in Manaus were hit badly by another wave of coronavirus in the winter.

The research team from Brazil and Imperial College London have been studying the genetic makeup of coronavirus in some of those who were infected between November and December, as well as modelling the pandemic outcomes.

They say the P.1 variant probably emerged in early November, dominated and spread quickly, and caused many reinfections.

The data is preliminary, but fits with what experts have suspected that some of these new variants of coronavirus the world is seeing are more infectious and can evade some

of the immunity people may have already built against Covid.

This raises questions about how well current vaccines, which were designed around earlier versions of the virus, might work and how countries can ease restrictions without case levels rising too high.

Work is already under way to redesign or tweak the vaccines to make them a better match for some of these new “variants of concern”, although existing ones should still provide some protection, particularly against severe disease.

Updated vaccines could be ready within months, meaning the UK would have millions of doses ready to give people a booster shot before next winter to make sure the population is protected.

The priority, along with mass vaccination, is to keep cases low to reduce the chance of new and emerging variants from spreading.

(BBC)

The 65-foot (20-metre) lizard, Ninjatitan zapatai, was discovered in 2014 in the Neuquen province of southwest Argentina, the La Matanza University reported in its analysis.

Argentinian titanosaur may be oldest yet: Study A COLOSSAL dinosaur dug up in Argentina could be the oldest titanosaur ever found, having roamed what is now Patagonia some 140 million years ago at the beginning of the Cretaceous period, scientists said on Sunday.

The 65-foot (20-metre) lizard, Ninjatitan zapatai, was discovered in 2014 in the Neuquen province of southwest Argentina, the La Matanza University reported in its analysis.

“The main importance of this fossil, apart from being a new species of titanosaur, is that it is the oldest recorded for this group worldwide,” a statement quoted researcher Pablo Gallina of the Conicet scientific council as saying.

Titanosaurs were members of the

sauropod group – gigantic planteating lizards with long necks and tails that may have been the largest animals ever to walk the Earth.

The new discovery, the statement said, meant titanosaurs lived longer ago than previously thought – at the beginning of the Cretaceous period that ended with the demise of the dinosaurs some 66 million years ago.

Fossils from 140 million years ago are “really very scarce” said Gallina, main author of a study published in the Argentinian scientific journal Ameghiniana.

The creature was named after Argentinian paleontologist Sebastian Apesteguia, nicknamed “El Ninja”, and technician Rogelio Zapata.

(Aljazeera)

Covid vaccines cut risk of serious illness by 80% in over-80s A single shot of either the OxfordAstraZeneca or the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid jab reduces the chance of needing hospital treatment by more than 80%, an analysis in England shows.

The Public Health England data showed the effect kicked in three to four weeks after vaccination.

It was based on people aged over 80 who were the first to receive the jab.

Government scientists hailed the result, but stressed that two doses were needed for the best protection.

It comes after similar findings were published by Scottish health authorities last week, which they hailed as “spectacular”.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock told a Downing Street briefing on Monday the latest vaccine results were “very strong”.

He added: “They may also help

Government scientists hailed the result, but stressed that two doses were needed for the best protection.

to explain why the number of Covid admissions to intensive care units among people over 80 in the UK have dropped to single figures in the last couple of weeks.”

Also speaking at the news conference, England’s deputy chief medical officer - Prof Jonathan Van-

Tam - said the data offered a glimpse of how the vaccine programme “is going to hopefully take us into a very different world in the next few months”.

But he said it was “absolutely critical” that second doses “are still part of the course of immunisation

against Covid-19 and no less important”.

Prof Van-Tam stressed there was a “significant likelihood” that a second dose of a vaccine would “mature your immune response, possibly make it broader and almost certainly make it longer than it would otherwise be in relation to a first dose only.”

More than 20 million people in the UK have had their first dose of a vaccine - over a third of the adult population.

Meanwhile, another 104 deaths within 28 days of a positive coronavirus have been reported in the UK, and a further 5,455 new cases, according to the latest figures.

The PHE data, which has not been peer reviewed, also suggested the Pfizer vaccine, which started being rolled out a month before the AstraZeneca vaccine, leads to an

83% reduction in deaths from Covid.

This was based on people over the age of 80 who had died.

The data also showed vaccination cuts the risk of people over 70 developing any Covid symptoms by around 60%, three weeks after an initial dose.

Prof Van-Tam said the decision to give the AstraZeneca vaccine to older people was “clearly vindicated”.

Some European nations have refused to give it to the over 65s because data from the trials was mainly on its effect among younger adults.

Prof Van-Tam said the judgement made by the UK authorities was that it was simply “not plausible” the vaccine would only work on younger adults.

He said other countries would doubtless be “very interested” in the data coming out of the UK.

March 2-8, 2021

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Human origins: ‘Little Foot’ fossil’s big journey out of Africa ACCOMPANYING Prof Stratford and the skull was Ronald Clarke, the Witwatersrand University professor who led Little Foot’s more-than-20-year excavation from the Sterkfontein Caves just outside Johannesburg.

Also in the party was Dr Amélie Beaudet, keen to use Diamond’s powerful X-rays to peer inside the delicate object while doing no damage.

“With the X-rays, we found we could see tiny structures like the vasculature system, where there had been blood vessels inside Little Foot’s bones, which normally would require physically slicing up a specimen,” she told BBC News.

Prof Ian Tattersall, curator emeritus of human origins at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, is bowled over by the details revealed in the first scholarly paper to come out of the Diamond study.

“It is wonderful to have confirmation that micromorphology at this resolution can be recovered from a hominid this old,” he said.

From the Natural History Museum in London, Dr Louise Humphrey, a specialist in human origins and bioarchaeology not involved in the study, affirms the power of “this type of non-invasive investigation of microscopic structures… to reconstruct different aspects of an individual’s life history from birth to death”.

As an example, she highlights details in the tooth enamel revealed by the X-rays.

“Tooth enamel is not renewed during life,” Dr Humphrey explains, “so it preserves a record of an individual’s environment, diet and health during the first few years of life when the tooth crowns are

Little Foot is so nicknamed because of the diminutive nature of the bones of the feet.

developing.”

Disrupted growth patterns revealed by the high-resolution images indicate “that [Little Foot] experienced at least two events that interrupted development during early life”, she says.

Dr Beaudet told the BBC these tooth defects really stood out.

“Dietary deficiency or nutritional stress” are blamed in the paper, though in an interview for BBC Radio 4’s Inside Science programme, she accepted “we don’t know if Little Foot was sick at some time, or if she couldn’t find enough food”.

Dr Beaudet says they are also planning to measure a layer of material at the root of the teeth called cementum, which could indicate Little Foot’s age when she died. It’s thought the creature fell through an opening in the floor of the cave where she was found.

The sheer amount of data the team managed to collect at Diamond, seven terabytes (140 Blu-ray discs), has been a challenge. Generating it

was, too.

The skull, not much smaller than a modern human’s, was far larger than they had been accustomed to examining at the synchrotron’s “I12” imaging beamline.

The South African researchers had first sent a plastercast of the specimen, explained Thomas Connolley, the principal scientist on the beamline.

This meant the team could rehearse how best to mount the real object safely. And it was too large to be imaged all at once, so that new techniques had to be developed to knit together a patchwork of stills to create a complete 3D rendering all the while conscious of the skull’s importance in human prehistory.

“Only two people were allowed to handle the fossil,” he reported. “Prof Clarke and Dominic Stratford.”

He added: “None of us were allowed to touch it - with very good reason! Little Foot is probably the oldest and best-preserved fossils of this type.

“This was a very special experiment,” Dr Connolley admitted.

“It was actually quite emotional to think that we were studying one of our very early ancestors - for everyone I think, certainly for me.”

Dominic Stratford confesses to a little emotion, too.

“It was a fantastic moment when we were all ‘hutched’ together in the beamline control room - it’s always difficult to imagine what’s preserved, so when we finally started to see some images, it was completely remarkable,” he recalled.

Dr Beaudet, now based at Cambridge University after several years on Prof Clarke’s team at Witwatersrand, says it is the imprint of the brain on the inside of the skull that will be most interesting for what it reveals of the early development of human intelligence.

Already the team has identified the traces of blood vessels in the inner skull that are similar to ones found in modern humans.

“The main hypothesis is that

in modern humans, these vessels are involved in thermoregulation preventing our brain from becoming too hot. With Little Foot, the brain was the same size as a chimpanzee’s.

It was only later in evolution that the brain grew dramatically. But at some point, something had to change in the vascular system, too. So the fact that we can see these vessels in Little Foot is quite promising,” she said.

The problem is that at the moment, the team has no fossil comparisons - no study this detailed has been attempted before on ancient human remains.

For palaeoanthropologist Ian Tattersall, this is what makes the preliminary data from Diamond so tantalising.

“While there are no amazing revelations here, this study opens large vistas for the future,” he said.

“And it is especially significant in demonstrating that micromorphology can be recovered from truly ancient hominid fossils without having to resort to destructive techniques. That is truly an exciting prospect.”

There is much more work to be done on the skull scans already obtained, according to Dr Beaudet, but she is looking forward to examining the leg and arm bones, hands and feet of Little Foot, for what they will reveal of our ancestors’ transition from tree-living to scurrying around on the ground.

The success with these first experiments reassures Prof Stratford.

“One of the blessings and curses of Little Foot is that we have these amazingly well-preserved, complete, single bones, which is almost unheard of. Fragments are easy to move around and to scan. But if you have a complete leg bone, or upper-arm and shoulder blade - that becomes a real challenge,” he said.

Extinction: Freshwater fish in ‘catastrophic’ decline A REPORT has warned of a “catastrophic” decline in freshwater fish, with nearly a third threatened by extinction.

Conservation groups said 80 species were known to have gone extinct, 16 in the last year alone.

Millions of people rely on freshwater fish for food and as a source of income through angling and the pet trade.

But numbers have plummeted due to pressures including pollution, unsustainable fishing, and the damming and draining of rivers and wetlands.

The report said populations of migratory fish have fallen by threequarters in the last 50 years.

Over the same time period, populations of larger species, known as “megafish”, have crashed by 94%.

The report, The World’s Forgotten Fishes, is by 16 conservation groups,

Healthy rivers are essential for fish to thrive.

including WWF, the London Zoological Society (ZSL), Global Wildlife Conservation and The Nature Conservancy.

In UK waters, the sturgeon and the burbot have vanished, salmon are

disappearing and the European eel remains critically endangered.

According to the WWF, much of the decline is driven by the poor state of rivers, mostly as a result of pollution, dams and sewage.

It has called on the government to restore freshwater habitats to good health through proper enforcement of existing laws, strengthening protections in the Environment Bill and championing a strong set of global targets for the recovery of nature.

Dave Tickner, from WWF, said freshwater habitats are some of the most vibrant on earth, but - as this report shows - they are in catastrophic decline around the world.

“Nature is in freefall and the UK is no exception: wildlife struggles to survive, let alone thrive, in our polluted waters,” said the organisation’s chief adviser on freshwater.

“If we are to take this government’s environmental promises seriously, it must get its act together, clean up our rivers and restore our freshwater habitats to good health. “

Carmen Revenga of The Nature Conservancy said freshwater fish are a diverse and unique group of species that are not only essential for the healthy functioning of our rivers, lakes and wetlands, but millions of people, particularly the poor, also depend on them for their food and income.

“It’s now more urgent than ever that we find the collective political will and effective collaboration with private sector, governments, NGOs and communities, to implement naturebased solutions that protect freshwater species, while also ensuring human needs are met,” she said.

Commenting, Dr Jeremy Biggs, of the Freshwater Habitats Trust, said to protect freshwater biodiversity, we need to consider both large and small waters, and to protect all our freshwaters: ponds, lakes, streams and rivers. (BBC)

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March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational Boris Johnson pledges £2.8m towards British and Irish bid for 2030 World Cup

THE prime minister, Boris Johnson, has pledged £2.8m towards a potential joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland to host the 2030 World Cup, saying it is the “right time” to “bring football home”.

There will be some eyebrows raised over the fact the government is willing to be part of a fresh bid for the World Cup given the disastrous campaign for the 2018 tournament – hosted by Russia – which cost £19m and saw the bid knocked out in the first round of voting with a meagre two votes from Fifa’s executive committee.

In an interview with the Sun, Johnson said: “We are very keen to bring football home in 2030. I do think it’s the right place. It’s the home of football, it’s the right time.

It will be an absolutely wonderful thing for the country.”

Plans for a renewed bid were first announced by UK Sport in October 2018 and a feasibility study will continue before the formal bidding process begins next year.

Simon Morton, UK Sport’s chief operating officer, has promised that the FA will take a very different

Boris Johnson, seen here in 2019, thinks the 2030 bid ‘will be an absolutely wonderful thing for the country.’

approach this time after being widely criticised for courting controversial Fifa figures, such as the former Concacaf president Jack Warner,

who was later banned. UK Sport is also confident that Fifa’s new World Cup voting rules make it much more likely that a British and Irish bid

would succeed.

On Monday evening the Football Association said it welcomed “the Government’s pledge of

£2.8m towards a potential bid” for the 2030 World Cup. A joint statement released by the English FA and the football associations of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland read: “The football associations and Government partners of the UK and Ireland are delighted that the UK Government has committed to support a prospective fiveassociation bid for the 2030 Fifa World Cup. “We will continue to undertake feasibility work to assess the viability of a bid before Fifa formally open the process in 2022. Staging a Fifa World Cup would provide an incredible opportunity to deliver tangible benefits for our nations.”

The 2022 World Cup will take place in Qatar next year, while the 2026 tournament is to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

England have not hosted the World Cup since the victorious 1966 campaign.

London, Glasgow and Dublin are among the 12 host cities for the delayed 2020 European Championship, which is scheduled to take place this summer. (The Guardian.com)

England rugby player Ellis Genge says he received death threats following Six Nations defeat by Wales ENGLAND rugby player Ellis Genge says he received death threats after not clapping his Welsh opponents following his side’s defeat in the Six Nations.

In rugby, it’s tradition for teams to applaud each other after a match as they walk off the pitch.

“Don’t know why I’m not clapping in that tunnel must be deep in thought, utmost respect for the Welsh,” Genge wrote on Twitter.

“As for keyboard warriors sending death threats etc...” added Genge, referring to the abuse he’d been sent over social media after footage was circulated of the incident.

On Sunday, England Rugby released a statement saying that respect is a “core value” of the sport and that Wales “deserved their victory.”

It continued: “Unfortunately, some of the reaction on social media to players and the team has not shown the level of respect the rugby community prides itself on.

“We will support our players and

team against online abuse and hope true rugby fans will stand with us.”

Twitter did not immediately respond to CNN’s request for comment.

This comes after BBC reporter Sonja McLaughlan also revealed that she had received abuse on Twitter following her post-match interviews.

McLaughlan asked England captain Owen Farrell and coach Eddie Jones a number of times about controversial refereeing decisions during his side’s 40-24 defeat.

“Toxic, embarrassing, disgraceful, appalling. Just some of the feedback I’ve had,” McLaughlan wrote on Twitter.

“Thanks for using @ sign so it’s all hit home. Now imagine getting inundated with abuse for doing your job. In my car crying. Hope you’re happy.”

In response to the tweet, England Rugby said that “abuse for doing your job is not OK and we stand with you. We will see you for the next

Ellis Genge came on as a second-half substitute in England’s defeat by Wales.

one. Hold your head high and know you have our support.”

The Six Nations also said that “abuse of public figures or members of the media on social media or anywhere else is not acceptable,” while the BBC “strongly condemn(ed)” the abuse sent to McLaughlan and said she “absolutely has our full support.”

On Monday, the Welsh Rugby Union said it was “hugely disappointed and saddened by

the social media abuse directed at opposition players and members of the media” and that such abuse “has to stop.”

Before Saturday’s game, which saw Wales secure the Triple Crown after victories against Ireland, Scotland and Wales in the Six Nations, England coach Eddie Jones had told CNN that social media is “never going to change” and that his coaching staff leave it to individual players to decide how they deal with

abusive messages.

Last month, Instagram announced tougher measures to combat online abuse on its platform, including further controls to reduce the abuse people see in their direct messages (DMs).

The platform also told CNN that between July and September 2020, it took action on 6.5 million pieces of hate speech, including in DMs, 95 percent of which was found before anyone had reported it. (CNN)

March 2-8, 2021

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational

43

Ian St John: Former Liverpool & Scotland forward dies at age 82 FORMER Liverpool and Scotland forward Ian St John has died at the age of 82 after a long illness.

St John joined Liverpool from hometown team Motherwell in 1961 for a club record £37,500 and played 425 games for the Anfield side, scoring 118 goals, during a decade of service.

He won two top-flight titles and scored the decisive goal as Liverpool lifted their first FA Cup in 1965.

St John also earned 21 Scotland caps and managed Motherwell and Portsmouth.

He latterly enjoyed a successful career as a TV pundit, teaming up with former England striker Jimmy Greaves to front the hugely popular ‘Saint and Greavsie’ show which ran until 1992.

The St John family’s statement said: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that after a long illness we have lost a husband, father and grandfather.

“He passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside. We would like to thank all the staff at Arrowe Park Hospital for their hard work and dedication during these very difficult times.”

Premier League champions Liverpool are “deeply saddened”

by the loss of a “true Anfield legend”.

St John’s finishing prowess was evident from his early days at Motherwell, the club he had watched as a supporter lifting the Scottish Cup for the first time in 1952 before joining five years later.

His prolific scoring record earned him international recognition and a move to Liverpool under fellow Scot Bill Shankly where he soon became a fans’ favourite.

It has gone down in Liverpool mythology that when the board were reluctant to spend a record fee on the player, Shankly’s reply was: “We can’t afford not to buy him.”

St John quickly began to prove his worth, scoring a hat-trick on his debut, a 4-3 defeat to Everton in the Liverpool Senior Cup. Within 12 months his 22 league goals had helped Liverpool secure the Second Division title.

He matched that total in season 1963-64 as the Anfield men won their first top-flight crown in 17 years, with a second title following two years later.

Perhaps his most iconic moment in the red shirt came at Wembley in 1965 when his headed winner in extra time overcame Leeds United

St John’s winner helped Liverpool claim the 1965 FA Cup.

2-1 to give Liverpool their first FA Cup. A Scotland international by age 20, St John netted nine times in his 21 appearances for his country.

After leaving Liverpool he had shorts spells with South African sides Hellenic and Cape Town City either side of a season with Coventry City, before ending his playing days at Tranmere Rovers.

He returned to Motherwell as manager in 1973, then moved on to Portsmouth before embarking on a successful career in broadcasting.

‘ST JOHN HELPED MAKE LIVERPOOL WHAT IT IS TODAY’ - REACTION Former Liverpool captain Jamie Carragher, and current Scotland skipper and Anfield full-back Andy Robertson, were among those to pay tribute.

“RIP Ian St John,” Carragher wrote. “One of the players along with Bill Shankly who made this club what it is today.”

Robertson added: “A man of warmth, humour, knowledge, wisdom and joy. Scotland and

Liverpool has lost a true giant. My love goes to his family. Rest in peace Ian St John.”

Another former Liverpool skipper, Steven Gerrard, heard the news during his Rangers press conference.

“I’m devastated,” the Rangers manager said. “He’s a fantastic guy, really insightful in terms of his career and experience at Liverpool and trying to pass on a lot of knowledge and expertise.

“He’s a legend and an iconic figure at the club and someone I’ve got incredible respect for.” (BBC)

Earth being bombarded by 500km/s solar storm which could affect technology EARTH is currently being bombarded by a solar storm smashing into our planet at 500 kilometres per second, and experts believe it could possibly cause problems for our technology A “moderately strong” geomagnetic storm is currently battering Earth, and it could cause consequences for Earth’s satellitereliant technology. Solar storms can be detrimental to satellite-based technology as they can heat the Earth’s outer atmosphere, causing it to expand and making it more difficult for satellite signals to reach the ground.

Additionally, a surge of particles can lead to high currents in the magnetosphere, which can lead to higher than normal electricity in power lines, resulting in electrical transformers and power stations blowouts, as well as a loss of power.

Experts have classified the current storm as being G2-class.

This can lead to “weak power grid fluctuations” and have a “minor impact on satellite operations”, according to Space Weather.

The solar winds are hitting our planet at a staggering 500 kilometres per second, or 1.8 million kilometres per hour.

Solar particles are hitting Earth at 500 kilometres per second.

A small crack has also opened in Earth’s magnetic shield - a fairly common occurrence but one which can lead to brighter auroras.

Auroras are caused when the magnetosphere gets bombarded by solar wind which deflects the particles, causing stunning green and blue lights.

Space Weather said: “A moderately strong G2-class geomagnetic storm is in progress on March 1st as Earth enters a highspeed stream of solar wind.

“The solar wind is flowing faster than 500 km/s from a southern hole in the sun’s atmosphere. Its effect is amplified by cracks now opening in Earth’s magnetic field.

“Solar wind pouring through the gaps is fuelling the storm.”

It added: “Aurora probabilities in central Canada are now topping 90 percent.”

While this storm is relatively weak, one astronomer has warned there could be an increase in both frequency and power of solar storms in the coming years, due to the solar maximum.

The Sun follows 11-year cycles where it reaches a solar maximum and then a solar minimum. (Express. co.uk)

44

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2-8, 2021

Annika Sorenstam of Sweden plays a shot on the 18th fairway during the final round of the Gainbridge LPGA at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club on Sunday in Orlando.

Golfers wore red and black in honour of Tiger Woods during Sunday’s play Alisson Becker: Father of Liverpool Alisson was voted Fifa Best Men’s Goalkeeper in 2019.

GOLFERS wore red shirts and black pants during the WGC-Workday Championship on Sunday in honour of golf legend Tiger Woods, who is hospitalized after a serious car accident last week.

Woods responded on Twitter to the gesture made by many in the golf community, including Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Thomas and Cameron Champ, who wore Woods’ signature outfit.

“It is hard to explain how touching today was when I turned on the tv and saw all the red shirts,” Woods wrote Sunday. “To every golfer and every fan, you are truly helping me get through this tough time.”

Golfers at the Gainbridge LPGA

on Sunday, including Annika Sorenstam, also wore red and black in support of Woods.

PGATour Communications tweeted a picture Sunday of maintenance staff at the Puerto Rico Open wearing red and black to honor Woods.

And golfer Bryson DeChambeau tweeted a picture of a golf ball with the name “Tiger” and a red line on it.

“We’re all pulling for you @ tigerwoods,” DeChambeau wrote.

“A mentor, idol and role model to my career, there’s no one that could come out of this stronger. We’re glad you’re here. See you soon.”

Woods suffered serious leg injuries in a single-vehicle rollover accident last week near Los Angeles,

where his SUV crossed a median, went across two lanes of road, then hit a tree and landed on the driver’s side in the brush.

After initial treatment at HarborUCLA Medical Center, Woods was moved to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where he received follow-up procedures, a tweet posted Friday to Woods’ Twitter account said. “The procedures were successful, and he is now recovering and in good spirits.”

Woods’ injuries included open fractures to his tibia and fibula that required a rod to be inserted, and additional injuries to the bones of the foot and ankle that were stabilized with screws and pins. (CNN)

goalkeeper drowns in Brazil Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker’s father, Jose Agostinho Becker, has died aged 57 in Brazil.

Local police inspector Doroteo Machado Filho said Becker drowned at a dam near his holiday home in Lavras do Sul. “I would like to thank everyone for the messages and tributes to my beloved father,” Alisson said on Twitter. “Our family feels loved by everyone.”

Liverpool said they are “deeply saddened” by the death and asked for privacy for Alisson and his family.

“The thoughts of everybody at the

club are with Alisson and the Becker family at this incredibly sad and difficult time,” the Premier League champions tweeted.

Alisson’s former club Internacional, as well as fellow Brazilian side Fluminense, where his brother Muriel plays, have also expressed their sadness.

Alisson’s Liverpool team-mates Adrian and Virgil van Dijk both expressed their support on Instagram, the former writing: “We are all with you hermano.”

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea also posted his condolences.

England’s Tammy Beaumont moves to top of ODI batting rankings ENGLAND opener Tammy Beaumont has become the leading one-day batter in the world for the first time.

The 29-year-old moved up five places in the International Cricket Council standings after making 71, 72 not out and 88 not out in the 2-1 series win in New Zealand.

Australia captain Meg Lanning drops to second.

England’s Nat Sciver climbed to 10th in the batting rankings and fifth in the all-rounder standings.

She scored 96 runs and took five wickets in the series.

England and New Zealand will play a three-match Twenty20 series in Wellington starting on Wednesday at 02:00 GMT. Beaumont, who averages 22.20 with a strike-rate of 108.73 in T20 internationals, said she would “love”

to open the batting against New Zealand in the shortest format.

She batted in the middle order in last year’s T20 World Cup in Australia, scoring only 15 runs in three innings as England reached the semi-finals.

Beaumont returned to the top of the order for the 5-0 clean sweep of West Indies in Derby last summer and was England’s highest runscorer with 120 in the series.

“It’s certainly where I prefer to bat, but at the same time I’ll do whatever is right for the team,” she said.

Beaumont backed opener Danni Wyatt to return to form in the T20s against New Zealand after she managed 18 runs in the ODIs. “Danni certainly suits playing T20 cricket,” Beaumont said.

“She’s so expansive and loves

Tammy Beaumont has scored 2,618 runs at an average of 45.13 in 74 ODIs since her debut in 2009.

going out there to play her shots.

That’s the role she plays really well for England and has done for a long, long time.”

All-rounder Brooke Halliday

could make her T20 debut for New Zealand after being added to the squad. The 29-year-old scored 50 and 60 in her first two ODIs against England.

She replaces seamer Lea Tahuha, who has a hamstring injury, while uncapped all-rounder Gabby Sullivan has also been included.

(BBC)

March 2-8, 2021

Sports Interational

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Russian athletes took part in the Rio Olympics five years ago.

Athletics doping: Plan for Russia’s re-admittance to World Athletics approved RUSSIA is closer to having its suspension from World Athletics for doping offences lifted after the sport’s international governing body approved plans for reform.

The 31-page plan is described as a “last chance and urgent attempt” for change after Russia’s 2015 suspension.

A number of deadlines for reform have been set for the coming year, including targets for wider drug testing.

World Athletics president Lord Coe called it a “roadmap to rebuild trust”.

“This is not the end but the beginning of a long journey, with an incredible amount of work for Rusaf (the Russian Athletics Federation) to

do to rebuild trust,” said Coe. No date has been set for Russia’s readmittance to World Athletics, but a detailed timeline relating to the sport’s governance, funding, antidoping regime and education of athletes has been set out and is to be monitored.

Among the changes demanded are for policies to be introduced to encourage whistleblowing, measures to “punish those regions resisting change”, and to increase athlete input into how the sport is run in the country.

The report says that Rusaf believes it can achieve its targets but also notes that “irreversibly changing a culture will in fact take a generation”.

Harden now has seven triple-doubles since joining the Nets in January

Harden shines as Brooklyn Nets beat San Antonio Spurs JAMES Harden scored 30 points, produced 15 assists and added 14 rebounds as the Brooklyn Nets earned a 124-113 overtime win against the San Antonio Spurs.

Harden’s display helped secure a ninth win in 10 matches and a first success on the road at San Antonio since 2002.

It was his seventh triple-double since moving from the Houston Rockets to join the Nets in January.

The Nets move second behind Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia 76ers, who beat the Indiana Pacers 130-114.

Harden’s former Houston team

fell to their 12th consecutive defeat, their worst run since the 2001-02 season, as Collin Sexton poured in 39 points for the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 101-90 win.

Elsewhere, Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram scored 26 points each for New Orleans Pelicans as they earned a 129-124 win over Western Conference leaders the Utah Jazz.

Luka Doncic continued his superb form for the Dallas Mavericks with 33 oints, nine assists and 10 rebounds in a 130-124 win over the Orlando Magic.

Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic

also went close to a triple-double by notching 39 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists as they beat the Chicago Bulls 118-112.

Jokic became the first Nuggets player to score 35 points or more in at least 10 games in a season since Carmelo Anthony in 2009-10.

The Portland Trail Blazers ended a four-game losing streak with a 123111 win over the Charlotte Hornets.

Veteran Anthony scored 29 points and Damian Lillard collected 23 points for Portland, while LaMelo Ball continued his strong season for Charlotte with a 30-point haul.

(BBC)

Rob James: Amateur jockey apologises for climbing on dead horse in video IRISH amateur jockey Rob James says he is “heartbroken” at the “damage” he has caused after being filmed climbing on to the back of a dead horse.

A video on social media shows James mount the animal at a gallops while some present can be heard laughing.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board said it was aware of the video and the matter was under investigation.

“I would just like to apologise for my actions which were wholly inappropriate and disrespectful,” said James.

Speaking to the Irish Field, James added: “I sincerely apologise to the owners of the mare, the staff who cared for her, the horseracing industry and all followers of horse racing for my actions.

“To try defending my stupidity at the time would add further insult and hurt to the many loyal people that have supported me during my career.

I have caused embarrassment to my employers, my family and most importantly the sport I love.

“I am heartbroken by the damage

Rob James rode Milan Native to victory at the Cheltenham Festival in 2020.

I have caused and will do my best to try and make amends to those hurt by my conduct.”

James, who rode Milan Native to victory at the Cheltenham Festival

last year, said the mare in the video died after suffering a cardiac arrest on a gallops in April 2016.

BBC Sport has approached James for comment.

His apology comes a day after Irish trainer Gordon Elliott was temporarily banned from racing in Britain after being pictured sitting on a dead horse.

Elliott, 43, apologised for a photograph circulating of him sitting on a dead horse and was later temporarily banned by the British Horseracing Authority, pending the outcome of an IHRB investigation.

The IHRB board will meet on 5 March to hear evidence.

Elliott said the image was captured “some time ago” and was a “moment of madness that I am going to have to spend the rest of my life paying for”.

There has been widespread criticism from within racing of Elliott, who has saddled the winner of the Grand National three times.

On Tuesday, Cheveley Park Stud told BBC Sport’s Laura Scott they will move their eight horses from Elliott’s base and house them with Irish trainers Henry de Bromhead and Willie Mullins.

Leading Cheltenham Festival contender Envoi Allen moves to the De Bromhead team, along with Ballyadam, Malone Road, Quilixios and Guily Billy.

Mullins will take charge of Sir Gerhard, Grangeclare West and Classic Getaway. (BBC)

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports National Guerrier hoping to compete in outdoor season after injury

NATIONAL 100M record holder Akia Guerrier is hoping to participate in outdoor competitions after recovering from an ankle injury.

Guerrier, who sprained her ankle in mid-January during a trial run at her school’s indoor track said she is trying to get to that 100% fitness mark.

The injury took place while she was doing a practice start and her “spike hitched into the track” and she twisted her ankle and went down.

“The doctor said I tore my ligament as well as chipped a piece of bone off my tibia. This cost me many opportunities, including being a leg for the world relays. I am currently working my way back to, if not better, than what I was at the beginning of the semester.”

The Kansas State athlete has been training and is just waiting on the go-ahead from her coach.

“I definitely will (compete in outdoor meets). I’ve been in spikes since the incident. I already started practicing again. I have to take precautionary measures by wrapping every session.”

Akia Guerrier has healed and is only awaiting her coach’s approval to compete.

Akia Guerrier tore her ligament and chipped a piece of bone off her tibia during the injury.

Reigning Chinese Super League champion Jiangsu FC ‘ceases operations’ THE owners of Jiangsu FC, the defending Chinese Super League (CSL) champion, announced on Sunday that the club would “cease operations” with immediate effect.

Jiangsu FC -- formerly known as Jiangsu Suning -- hit the headlines in 2019 after it was reported to have offered Gareth Bale a highly lucrative contract to leave Real Madrid.

“Due to various uncontrollable elements, Jiangsu Football Club cannot effectively guarantee to continue to play in the Super League and the AFC [Asian Football Confederation],” the club’s owners, Nanjing-based retailer Suning, said in a statement.

“In the past six months, the club has gone all the way to seek to transfer the club’s equity with great sincerity, and did not give up the opportunity of Jiangsu Football Club’s inheritance.

“On the occasion of the deadline for admission to the 2021 season ... we have no choice but to announce: with immediate effect, Jiangsu Football Club ceases operations of its teams, and at the same time, on a larger scale, we expect people of insight and enterprises from the society to discuss follow-up development matters with us.”

Jiangsu Suning players and staff celebrate after their team defeated Guangzhou Evergrande to win the Chinese Super League.

The decision also impacts Jiangsu FC’s successful women’s team, which won its second Chinese Women’s Super League title in 2019.

If Jiangsu FC is unable to find a new

buyer, that could have implications for the Asian Champions League -the continent’s most prestigious club tournament -- which starts in April.

The Asia Football Confederation

did not immediately respond to CNN Sport’s request for comment.

Eye-watering contracts For several years, CSL clubs have been luring some of the world’s top

talent with eye-watering contracts, leading many to question the longterm viability of the league.

Just last month, fellow CSL club Shandong Luneng was barred from competing in the Asian Champions League due to its breaching of financial regulations.

Local reports also say that Tianjin Tigers -- formerly known as Tianjin Teda -- is also on the verge of collapse, after its state-owned owner TEDA Holding reportedly pulled its funding ahead of the season.

Part of the issue stems from a recent Chinese Football Association (CFA) ruling that no longer permits clubs to have corporate sponsors in their titles.

The Tigers’ city rival Tianjin Tianhai, once the home of Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato and Italian coach Fabio Cannavaro, collapsed and ceased to exist in May of last year.

Suning is also a majority owner in current Italian league leader Inter Milan after purchasing 68.55% of the club for $307 million in 2016.

Inter did not immediately respond to CNN’s request for comment as to whether Suning’s new football strategy had any implications for the Serie A club. (CNN)

March 2-8, 2021

Sports National

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Helcy-Ann Sauver will also look to compete in the 200M in her outdoor season.

Helcy-Ann Sauver won gold and silver at the meet.

Sauver’s relay team now first in SIAC after 4X100M win NATIONAL athlete Helcy-Ann Sauver anchored her 4X100M relay team to victory and a first place rank in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) after a solid performance at the Savannah State Eye Opener Meet in Savannah, Georgia.

The relay win helped Benedict College to win the track and meet over the weekend.

The Benedict College A team was a late addition to the race and with Sauver leading the charge, they managed to place first with a

– Benedict College athlete also medal in 100M time of 48.02s.

The 23-year-old, who did not make a top 10 finish in her lone indoor competition last month, said that she felt stronger in Saturday’s meet.

“I felt ready today (Saturday).

Felt really strong, had a minor setback in the final, but I still finished as strong as I could.”

Sauver was also outstanding in the 100M dash.

She qualified for the final by whipping through her Heat. Her top time of 12.50s was ahead of the next two best qualifiers (T. Minor 12.64s and Kassie Jordan 13.21s).

Unfortunately, Sauver slowed down in the final. She finished in 12.80s, while Shenequa Battle won in 12.62s.

Overall, Benedict topped the 10team field with 127 points, edging

out host Savannah State with 122 points. The rest of the field was Dalton State (98 points), Bryant & Stratton (78), Albany State (72), Clayton State (72), Piedmont (34), Francis Marion (10), USC Beaufort (10) and Edward Waters (5).

The psychology major, who has had her share of injuries over the last few years, is hoping to stay healthy in this her final season.

She had told the Weekly News that she has a lot to prove this year.

“I’m really trying to better my times in both races by executing them better. This year is important because it’s my last, so I’m going to do more than my best to make sure I go out great… I still may have a year of eligibility left, so I’m going to look for a graduate school with a track programme, so I can get my Masters and still participate.”

Along with the 100M, the sprinter is also looking to focus on the 200M.

New Minister eager to see TCI athletes compete at high levels NEWLY appointed Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sport and Human Services, E. Jay Saunders expressed his interest in sport and noted that he is eager to see Turks and Caicos Islands athletes compete at regional and international levels under his tenure.

The former basketball player met with the Sports Commission on Friday.

According to information from the body, the Deputy Premier and Member of Parliament Jamell Robinson met with the Director of Sport Jarrett Forbes and his

staff.

“The Minister and Member of Parliament, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Desiree Lewis and Head of Secretariat Ms. Renessa Williams, stopped by to meet with staff, view the facilities and learn about the ongoing projects and programmes that the commission is currently engaged in.”

The social media post added that the Sports Commission is looking forward to working together with the new Minister to “continue to empower our people through sports”.

Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sport and Human Services, E. Jay Saunders (third from right) during the meeting.

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March 2-8, 2021