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Firefighters skilfully manoeuvre through piles of debris to quell the blaze
(Right) James and his brother work tirelessly to salvage some of their belongings
Dozens of residents gathered at the scene
Residents look on in disbelief at the catastrophic devastation caused by the blaze (Photos: Olivia Rose)
Residents wade through a sea of debris to identify familiar objects belonging to them
Dozens homeless
– As fire ravages informal settlement in Five Cays
BY OLIVIA ROSE
A scene of utter devastation unfolded in the Five Cays Community on Wednesday afternoon as a raging fire tore through a densely populated squatter settlement, leaving over a dozen structures charred and occupants displaced.
A pall of smoke hung heavy over the Five Cays, Providenciales, a grim testament to the devastating fire that tore through the area, leaving a trail of destruction and displacing dozens from their homes.
What began as a seemingly ordinary afternoon erupted into chaos shortly after 1 pm, as a ferocious blaze consumed approximately 15 structures in a densely populated area behind Liz Bakery.
Miraculously, while no fatalities or injuries have been reported, the sheer scale of the disaster has left the community reeling and grappling with uncertainty.
The fire, which could be seen billowing from various vantage points across the island, drew scores of onlookers, their faces etched with disbelief.
The rapid spread of the flames was exacerbated by the close proximity of the wooden homes, transforming the area into an inferno within minutes.
When the Weekly News visited the scene, residents could be seen scrambling to salvage what little they could, clutching personal belongings and furniture as they fled the encroaching flames.
James, one of the victims who lost his home in the blaze,
recounted the harrowing moments when he received the news.
“I got a call from Prophete, my brother saying the house is on fire, I couldn’t believe it, I dropped everything and ran home,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.”
He had only just left his house to visit a nearby shop when the fire ignited. Despite his desperate attempts to save his belongings, little was salvageable.
The chaotic scene was further described by another resident, Jean, who revealed the precarious circumstances that led to the construction of the now-destroyed homes.
He alleged that individuals were “sold” small parcels of land for as little as $400 to build homes on what was considered private land, resulting in a densely populated
area with limited access.
This informal settlement posed a significant challenge for firefighters attempting to reach the heart of the blaze.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) confirmed their response to the incident.
“Just after 2:45pm today, officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force responded to reports of a fire in Five Cays, Providenciales.
The reported location was behind Liz Bakery,” stated a police report. Upon arrival, officers and firefighters were met with a scene of devastation, “several wooden structures and vehicles fully engulfed in flames.”
The report further noted the challenges faced in containing the
fire due to “wind conditions.”
The police confirmed that officers took immediate action to evacuate the area, prioritizing public safety. “Fortunately, no injuries were reported,” the report stated, a small consolation amidst the widespread loss.
The fire was eventually brought under control after several hours, with firefighters battling the blaze until after 7pm.
While the immediate danger has subsided, the aftermath leaves a community in crisis.
The cause of the inferno remains under investigation, with the RTCIPF collaborating with fire officials to determine the origin of the blaze.
However, the more pressing concern is the fate of the dozens who have been left without shelter.
The densely populated area posed a significant challenge for fire trucks to access the burning buildings
Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and other Emergency responders at the scene (RTCIPF Photo)
INTERHEALTH CANADA’S $17.1M PAYMENT
A $17.1m payment to InterHealth Canada recently sparked a “fierce political battle” in the Turks and Caicos Islands Parliament. The payment stemmed from a “long-standing dispute and arbitration process.” The Leader of the Opposition demanded clarity, asking, “What are those claims about?” The Minister of Home Affairs blamed the “bad management” of the previous administration. However, the Premier acknowledged the claim, saying, “I wish there was a way to just totally ignore it, but there isn’t.” Furthermore, the government is taking a “firm stance” against InterHealth Canada over “value for money and service quality, which could potentially lead to financial penalties or even contract termination.” A 25-year PPP contract with InterHealth Canada was signed in 2008/09 to operate two hospitals.
Farcical
I remember reading the contract. It was long, complex, and I said at the time, farcical. It was clearly designed to disguise the underlying high costs. Anyway, let’s hope this gang can find and listen to a real, experienced businessman and a top lawyer from a London practice with deep knowledge of infrastructure finance.
A deep lack of curiosity
There seems to be a lack of curiosity from the Government and its bloated backbench about this huge arrangement with InterHealth Canada and how it negatively affects the “fortunes” of the people of the TCI. The payment stemmed from a “longstanding dispute and arbitration process.”
The Leader of the Opposition demanded clarity, asking, “What are those claims about?”
The Minister of Home Affairs appears to be avoiding the truth. This Government started the scheme. It must now account for its own misdeeds. Shifting the blame
aggressive at exposing this deal and keeping the PNP’s feet to the fire. They cannot be allowed to have it both ways.
With an overwhelming majority in the House, the PNP should now move to have the deal investigated. Where is the energy for that? Would it lead back to Rome?
Accountability
Why was the payment not announced earlier, before the elections? Rightfully, the $17.1m payment ought to spark a firestorm. TCI people are being eaten alive as a result of this scheme. Why, after a decade and a half, is the implementation of the health deal not yet sustainable, and yet the people of the TCI must foot the bill?
Why aren’t the backbenchers of this super majority—17 seats to two in Parliament— not “making noise” and joining the Opposition in demanding answers? Are they comfortable with deals like this, the Club Med deal, and our students being deprived of scholarships and opportunities? Are they elected to “make recitations, like they’re in Sunday School, and simply do nothing”?
The government’s failure to announce the payment earlier only adds to the perception of a cover-up. It’s time for the Public Accounts Committee to demand answers and for leaders to take responsibility for this ongoing debacle.
A step toward resolution
The recent $17.1m payment to InterHealth Canada, though contentious, represents a step toward resolving a long-standing dispute that has overshadowed healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Premier’s acknowledgment of the claim reflects a commitment to addressing inherited challenges rather than ignoring them. The government’s firm stance on “value for money and service quality” is a promising sign that future negotiations could lead to improved outcomes for the people of TCI. While the contract’s history is complex, this payment could pave the way for greater accountability and a renewed focus on delivering high-quality healthcare services.
is something politicians are good at, and taking responsibility is something they do not do.
What is this now?
How could any PNP Minister and official blame anyone on the issue with InterHealth Canada, when it was they on the “gravy train” from the beginning? What does he mean by the previous administration?
It could only have been the PNP regime from 2012 through 2016. When the PDM took the reins of power in 2016–21, it was the Hon Edwin Astwood, as Minister of Health, who started the process to have the hospital deal, which was placed on the people from 2009 to date, by the PNP of 2003–09, investigated and audited.
If there is any reference to the former administration, it must be to the PNP of 2012–2016 and/or to them between 2021 and 2025. Yet this deal, with all of the “per diems” paid to civil servants and those in between, is their project—i.e., the PNP’s deal and all in the middle.
It was a rip-off then as it continues to be a rip-off now. This is something they cannot hide from. The PDM, as the official Opposition, and the public must be more
It cannot be ignored. The Public Accounts Committee of the House of Parliament needs to be convened and insist on answers. Demand accounts, paperwork, explanations, and get to the bottom of this rip-off of the people. Mr Premier and your 16 colleagues, why are we shafted like helpless infants in this country?
First, there is the issue of the mismanagement of NHIP, the deficit, this $17.1m payment to InterHealth Canada— all of which must have been known to the powers that be in government but kept silent until after the elections of February 7, 2025! It is a massive cover-up, like all others, executed by a Government that neither has to be nor wants to be accountable to the people.
A costly mistake
The $17.1m payment to InterHealth Canada is yet another example of how poorly managed contracts can burden the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This deal, signed over a decade ago, has proven to be a financial albatross, with high costs disguised in complex terms.
The lack of transparency and accountability – both in the original agreement and in subsequent administrations – has left taxpayers footing the bill for a system that remains unsustainable.
A complex legacy
The $17.1m payment to InterHealth Canada highlights the complexities of long-term public-private partnerships (PPPs). Signed in 2008/09, the 25-year contract was intended to modernise healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands, but it has since become a source of contention.
While the payment stems from a “longstanding dispute and arbitration process,” it raises questions about transparency and accountability in managing such agreements. Both past and present administrations share responsibility for ensuring value for money and service quality. Moving forward, the government must prioritise a thorough review of the contract to address public concerns and ensure that healthcare remains sustainable and equitable for all.
Record passenger numbers strain Providenciales Airport
– TCIAA says pro-active measures resulted in smooth operations
A surge in tourism has put the Howard Hamilton International Airport (HHIA) under significant pressure, with over 9,000 passengers departing the Turks and Caicos Islands in a single weekend.
This unprecedented volume of travellers has prompted airport officials to accelerate expansion plans and urge passengers to follow arrival time guidelines to avoid congestion.
Saturday, 29th March 2025, marked one of the busiest periods ever experienced by the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA). Despite the challenges posed by record-breaking
numbers, the TCIAA reported smooth operations, attributing this success to proactive measures by its administrative team.
“Today the departure lines at Howard Hamilton International Airport moved smoothly, thanks to the proactive efforts of the Administration team,” the TCIAA stated in a press release. The authority highlighted the presence of its CEO, Mr Selvyn Hawkins, actively assisting passengers on both the terminal and airside, alongside executives who supported HHIA staff with passenger queries, security checks, and resolving minor issues.
The surge of over 9,000
TCI joins global community
‘Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention’ is the theme for this year’s observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month, a theme that the Turks and Caicos Islands supports.
The Department of Social Development and Welfare, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, said this week that it stands with the global community.
“This year’s theme underscores our shared responsibility to protect the children of the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensuring they grow up safe, loved, and brimming with potential. It also reflects our steadfast dedication to safeguarding and supporting the children of our nation,” the
departing passengers reflects the growing popularity of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a tourist destination. “These figures highlight the increasing demand for our destination,” the TCIAA noted. In response, the authority is prioritising expansion efforts to enhance airport capacity and improve efficiency. “These developments will help streamline operations and enhance the overall travel experience,” the statement added.
The airport authority has urged passengers to arrive no earlier than two to two-and-a-half hours before their scheduled departure time, noting that early arrivals contribute
to unnecessary congestion in the terminal. Travellers were also encouraged to monitor flights closely and liaise with airlines for updates.
Meanwhile, the long-anticipated redevelopment of HHIA remains a key focus. On 30th May 2024, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government initiated the final bidding phase for the project, issuing an Invitation to Tender (ITT) to five shortlisted companies. This step signals progress towards transforming the airport into a state-of-the-art travel hub.
The redevelopment includes the construction of a parallel taxiway and a modern passenger terminal
capable of accommodating an estimated 2.5 million passengers annually. The final bids, received in December 2024, are undergoing evaluation. “Pre-qualification bids were received over a year ago to pre-screen candidates for final bids. The evaluation process is quite extensive for such a large project and is currently in its wrapping-up stage,” the TCIAA reported.
With tourism continuing to thrive, the expansion and redevelopment of HHIA are essential to providing a seamless travel experience for the growing number of visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands. (OLIVIA ROSE)
in celebrating Child Abuse Prevention Month
Stop Child Abuse (Google image)
Department said in a statement on April 1. Child Abuse Prevention Month is a time for reflection, action, and unity. By raising awareness, education, and supporting one another, families can be empowered, prevention efforts
enhanced, and children can enjoy a safer and brighter future.
To mark the occasion, the department has organised a series of initiatives designed to raise awareness and inspire action. Among these are child safeguarding training sessions designed to equip
frontline workers, community members, and stakeholders with the tools to recognise, prevent, and address child abuse and neglect.
Social Development Minister, Hon Shaun Malcolm, emphasised the importance of unity and compassion: “Every child deserves to grow up in a world where they feel safe, cherished, and free to dream, and every family deserves the support to make that a reality. With hope lighting our way, we have the power to create meaningful change. Prevention begins with each of us, and this April, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to safeguarding our most precious treasures - our children.”
Hon Malcolm also honoured
the communities and individuals who work tirelessly to safeguard and uplift children. “As we come together this April, let us remember that every step we take toward prevention brings us closer to a future where all children in the Turks and Caicos Islands are safe, supported, and cherished.”
The department encourages everyone - community members, stakeholders, educational institutions, government agencies, businesses, faith groups, and residents - to join in the monthlong observance by attending events wearing blue as a symbol of solidarity or spreading awareness. Every action contributes to a collective message of hope and prevention.
Passengers queue at check-in counters at the Howard Hamilton International Airport (Photos:TCIAA)
TCIA’s CEO Mr Selvyn Hawkins on the ground assisting passengers during the departure process
Auditor General issues damning ‘Disclaimer of Opinion’ on Govt
BY OLIVIA ROSE
Auditor General Sandra StephensMalcom has issued a “Disclaimer of Opinion” on the Turks and Caicos Islands government’s annual public accounts for the fiscal year ending 31st March 2024, citing difficulties in obtaining documentation and widespread accounting issues.
Stephens-Malcom noted that a “non-provision of documents” and “pervasive” accounting challenges had prevented her from forming a reliable opinion on the financial statements. This has raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the government’s financial management.
“Weak accountability increases the risk of failure in the system of financial reporting and undermines monitoring of the use of public funds. Trust in the public service on the custodianship and safeguarding of public assets and resources is also undermined,” Stephens-
Malcom stated in a press release issued on Tuesday, 25th March 2025.
Her report, which stems from the largest audit ever conducted in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlights significant challenges in reviewing the annual public
accounts. These accounts, intended to provide a clear overview of government receipts, payments, liabilities, and debts, were found to contain several issues that restricted effective auditing.
The National Audit Office (NAO), tasked with auditing government
spending, faced obstacles in securing the necessary records to verify transactions. According to the NAO’s press release, the “non-provision of documents for a number of transactions to support payments and receipts” resulted in a “scope limitation” on the audit. Additional accounting issues compounded these difficulties, making the accounts “pervasive” and challenging to review.
Auditors encountered notable gaps in critical financial areas, including wages, salaries, and benefits. “Balance information was not provided for audit examination of significant movements over the corresponding period in the amounts paid for salaries and benefits,” the Auditor General stated. Limitations in obtaining legal confirmations also hindered the auditors’ ability to assess government contingent liabilities.
The audit’s findings also revealed concerns about the non-availability of evidentiary documents within
the government’s main accounting system and other sources. These limitations extended beyond accounting issues, influencing the Auditor General’s ability to determine whether transactions adhered to local laws, principles of value for money, and propriety.
The Auditor General has issued a series of recommendations aimed at strengthening financial reporting, governance, and overall accountability. Implementing these measures is considered essential to restoring public trust in the government’s ability to safeguard public funds responsibly.
The NAO, as the institution legally mandated to conduct independent scrutiny of government financial management, remains central to ensuring accountability. However, the “Disclaimer of Opinion” underscores the need for greater transparency and cooperation within the government to avoid such issues in future audits.
TCI grapples with cryptocurrency regulation in landmark training
In a move to address the burgeoning world of virtual assets, the Turks and Caicos Islands Anti-Money Laundering Committee (AMLC), in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), recently concluded a ground-breaking Virtual Assets Capacity Building Training.
The training seminar held at Beaches Resort in Providenciales from March 3rd to 7th, 2025, marked a significant step towards understanding and regulating cryptocurrencies within the territory.
The training initiative aimed to equip local law enforcement, regulatory supervisors, and related agencies with a fundamental understanding of virtual assets.
Participants delved into the mechanics of cryptocurrencies, exploring both the inherent risks and the potential opportunities they present in the modern financial landscape.
A specialised workshop was also conducted to raise awareness among regulated businesses and the private sector, signalling the government’s intent to engage
all stakeholders in the regulatory process.
This capacity-building effort was strategically positioned within the context of the ongoing National Anti-Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing, and Weapons Proliferation Risk Assessment (NRA).
The insights gleaned from the training are intended to inform critical decision-making by the Cabinet, particularly concerning the development of a robust framework for the regulation and supervision of virtual assets.
Recognising the complexities of this evolving field, the AMLC partnered with the UNODC, an international organisation renowned for its global capacitybuilding initiatives.
The collaboration leverages the UNODC’s extensive experience in other jurisdictions, providing the Turks and Caicos Islands with invaluable guidance as it navigates the intricacies of cryptocurrency regulation.
Chair of the AMLC, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, emphasised the importance
of the training and its broader implications.
“The training fostered both inter-agency collaboration and greater engagement with the private sector on considerations for the development of a proportionate and risk-sensitive regulatory framework for the supervision of virtual assets (cryptocurrency), thereby making the Turks and Caicos Islands not only compliant with international standards, but also competitive in the global market,” she stated. (OLIVIA ROSE)
Auditor General, Mrs Sandra Stephens-Malcom
Chair of the AMLC, Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles addressed attendees (Photos: TCIG)
The opening of the conference was attended by local officials; including HE The Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams and Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick
Turks and Caicos: The irony of colonial wealth and indigenous dispossession
The Turks and Caicos Islands, a glittering jewel in the Caribbean, present an image of tropical paradise—pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and a booming tourism industry catering primarily to wealthy North American visitors. But beneath the glossy veneer lies a history of displacement, exploitation, and colonial irony, where the descendants of the enslaved serve the descendants of the enslavers, and the wealth of the islands remains in the hands of outsiders.
A FORGOTTEN PAST
The first inhabitants of Turks and Caicos, the Taíno and Lucayan peoples, were wiped out within two decades of European contact—exterminated by disease, forced labour, and genocide at the hands of Spanish colonizers in the 1600s. Today, their names persist in historical references, but their presence is a faint genetic memory among some islanders, an echo of a lost civilization.
Following the Spanish, the islands changed hands between the French and the British, though none invested in meaningful development. It wasn’t until the 1970s, with the rise of tourism, that the Turks and Caicos began to be seen as valuable. By then, the indigenous population had been erased, and the islands were largely populated by the descendants of African slaves brought from Bermuda. Despite this deep-rooted history, political autonomy remained elusive, with Turks and Caicos shuffled between being included as part of the Bahamas, with British oversight, and Jamaican administration until it became a British Overseas Territory in 1959.
When Jamaica was granted
BY JUDGE D PETER HERBERT O.B.E. (RET’D)
Rtd Judge Peter Herbert is Chair of the Society of Black Lawyers, a member of the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association, CMJA. He is a retired Part Time U.K. Immigration, and Employment Judge, who also sat as a Recorder in the Crown Courts. He is a non-practicing barrister who fulfils a variety of human rights and quasi-judicial functions, such as being a Jurist Commissioner on the International Human Rights report into the murder of George Floyd, and other African Americans submitted to the United Nations in May 2021. He was also a member and Vice Chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority from 2000 to 2008 and has visited the TCI as a barrister on occasions as part of his practice.
independence from Britain in August 1962, the Turks and Caicos Islands became a crown colony. Alexander Mitchell was the first governor of the TCI (1973 to 1975).
CURRENT TIMES
Grace Bay, voted beach award year on year, is to all intents and purposes a US holiday playground for the wealthy that reside in hotels, and condominiums which can sell for anything from $500,000 to $15 million for the most expensive house plots. Tourists never see the shanty towns, politely called Informal Settlement Units that lie out of sight, that successive administrations have failed to turn into habitual dwellings comparable to the wealth that is dotted around the island.
The environmental squalor that exists lies away from the beauty of Grace Bay and is no more popular to visit than the old slave dwellings that tourists rarely visit at Cheshire Hall and Wade’s Green Plantation. One could argue that the descendants of our ancestors have benefitted little from the economic harvest that has benefitted multinations or the offshore banking world. Fortunately, Donald Trump has not included the Turks and
Caicos Islands on his acquisition list, with Greenland, Panama and Canada….but perhaps that is because he does not need to.
WEALTH FOR THE FEW, STRUGGLE FOR THE MANY
Today, Turks and Caicos is an economic paradox. With an annual revenue exceeding US$1.4 billion, the islands should be among the most prosperous in the Caribbean. Yet, the reality is starkly different: while affluent tourists sunbathe on Grace Bay and shop in luxury boutiques, the local population— descendants of the enslaved and immigrants from Haiti—live in relative poverty, serving as hotel staff, civil servants, and low-wage workers.
Financial secrecy laws have turned the islands into a haven for the global elite, who enjoy taxfree status on income and capital gains, while the local economy remains largely stagnant for those who do not own land or businesses. The skyline is increasingly dominated by luxury developments such as the Ritz-Carlton and the upcoming Kempinski resort—monuments to a prosperity that remains out of reach for the majority of islanders.
This economic imbalance is further compounded by land ownership disparities. The most coveted coastal properties belong to wealthy foreign investors, while locals are often priced out of their own homeland. Unlike their ancestors, who were physically shackled, today’s islanders find themselves economically bound, unable to break free from the cycle of servitude that colonialism left in its wake.
THE ILLUSION OF AUTONOMY
Despite the trappings of selfgovernance, true power in Turks and Caicos still rests with Britain. The colonial hand remains firm, especially when it comes to allegations of corruption. Police
Officers from the UK are regularly seen on the island, together with Border Force operatives, and various drug enforcement agencies from the US are allowed to intervene which gives some idea of the scale of external influence on these small islands.
The British government has spent over £150 million in the past 15 years prosecuting former Premier Michael Misick, accused of corruption, in a court specially built for his trial—an extravagance that contrasts sharply with the underfunded public services available to ordinary islanders. Islanders still have no solar power requirements in a land washed in sunshine and no public transport. The only main hospital Authority has collapsed in financial scandal. All of this under the laissez faire attitude of a British-installed Governor, acting out the old colonial style.
The irony is glaring: Britain, with its own long history of financial scandals and political misconduct, is relentless in policing governance in its Caribbean territories.
Misick, a leader who championed independence, is tried without a jury—an act that underscores the lingering colonial power structures that determine justice on the islands.
In the civil courts a parallel injustice occurs where a prominent local lawyer is denied a jury trial in his case against foreign individuals and companies. His only remedy is to appeal to the Privy Council on narrow legal grounds, which itself is a historical anachronism.
Meanwhile, the economic system that keeps local people marginalised remains firmly intact, unquestioned and unchallenged by those in Whitehall or the London Stock Exchange.
Plus ca change mais plus c’est la meme chose!
INDEPENDENCE: A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD?
Would independence offer Turks and Caicos a path to true economic
freedom? The answer is complex. While self-determination might allow for greater control over local resources, history has shown that political independence does not always translate into economic liberation. The fear is that breaking away from Britain could simply mean exchanging one colonial master for another, whether that be Chinese investors, American corporations, or other foreign interests eager to exploit the islands’ wealth of sun and sand.
At its core, the question is not just about political sovereignty but about economic justice. Without a restructuring of land ownership, wealth distribution, and governance, independence could become a symbolic gesture rather than a transformative shift. There is an African spring occurring in Burkina Faso and the Sahel states that may bring much needed wind of change to the Caribbean, as the US withdraws behind its right wing isolationism of tariff driven economics and dog whistle politics.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: A CARIBBEAN STRUGGLE
Turks and Caicos is not an anomaly—it is a microcosm of neo-colonialism in the Caribbean. Across the region, from Jamaica to the Bahamas, native populations often find themselves marginalised in their own lands, while foreign investors dictate the economic landscape. Even access to beaches—once communal spaces—has been privatised in many islands, forcing locals, especially in Jamaica, to watch from the side-lines as tourists enjoy the best their homeland has to offer.
Justice remains elusive, not just in the courtroom but in the broader economic structures that uphold these inequalities. The ghosts of colonialism linger, not as relics of the past, but as active forces shaping the present. Until Turks and Caicos, and the Caribbean at large, address these fundamental disparities, the cycle of exploitation will continue— history repeating itself, this time under the guise of luxury tourism and foreign investment. Would a resurgence of PanAfricanism shift the balance? Perhaps. But what is certain is that without bold leadership and a clear vision for economic sovereignty, the descendants of the enslaved will continue to serve the descendants of the colonizers, in a land that should rightfully be theirs.”
Everybody is unique
Do
not copycat others
INTRODUCTION
Do you know that there are over eight billion people in the world and that no two people are the same? Even if you have identical twins in your family, each twin is different, even though they might look alike. Let us accept and celebrate everybody’s uniqueness, and so, I challenge everyone not to copycat others.
For many years, I aspired to emulate others, unaware that individuality is inherent to each person. Recognising your uniqueness boosts self-worth and respect for others, reducing the urge to compare yourself.
EVERYBODY IS UNIQUE
In a family, everybody is different. My wife and I have five children, including twins, each with unique personalities and skills. God has created and designed each of us to be different and within each of us is
BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR
Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.
a passion and skill for something. Encourage people to follow their passion. Some people want to join the music industry while others may pursue a career in medicine. In terms of personality, some people are extroverts while others are introverts. Do not try to change people and do not label people the same either.
In politics, individuals within a political party are often regarded similarly. The truth is each member of a political party is unique.
Not everyone is the same. Let us recognise that and stop labelling people as the same. Put politics aside and recognise the individuals in each political party as being unique. That is why I advise people to vote based on individual candidates rather than party affiliation.
Even as a country, the Turks and Caicos (TCI) is different from the other islands despite having similar beaches. Each island within TCI is also unique. Thus, it is unnecessary for us to imitate others. Let
us embrace and promote our authenticity.
DO NOT COPYCAT OTHERS
There are established standards and trends globally, and if you are not careful, you might unintentionally replicate them. People copy others on how they dress, walk and talk. By doing this, you are not being authentic or being yourself. Someone copied another person’s paper during an exam and mistakenly wrote the other person’s name on it.
RECOGNISE YOUR UNIQUENESS
You must appreciate who you are. I had low self-esteem because I wished to be someone else. There are some things you cannot change about you because that is who you are. Therefore, you need to examine yourself to determine
who you truly are and accept it and work on becoming the best version of yourself. Document your strengths, weaknesses, your passions, your talents, your likes, and your dislikes. From this exercise, you can determine who you are, and hopefully, you will recognise your uniqueness.
CONCLUSION
Mind you, individuals will inherit traits and physical appearance from their ancestors, but they will not be the same. Every person is unique. Because of the uniqueness of individuals, it creates diversity and innovation. Uniqueness can also foster us living and working in harmony. An individual may have weaknesses in one area while a colleague or family member may have strengths in that same area and so they can help each other by utilizing their strengths.
What traffic laws reveal about the soul of a society
In the last several days, I have had the benefit of visiting a few Caribbean countries. All of them are places I love. However, in two different places, when a driver made a risky overtake, I had the same thought (besides, oh my gosh). The way we drive tells a story. A story that reflects the values of the society we live in: values such as respect for others, personal responsibility, care for human life, and a commitment to the common good. And when those laws are consistently ignored or poorly enforced, they reveal troubling cracks in a nation’s moral and spiritual foundation.
This is especially true in the Caribbean, whether it’s here in the Turks and Caicos Islands or Jamaica or Guyana. Whether its drivers running red lights in downtown areas (traffic lights are suggestions), motorcyclists weaving recklessly through traffic, or persistent illegal parking (i.e. park anywhere),
KENYATTA E. LEWIS
Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going further in their faith. Besides loving, serving, and helping people he has watched the extended Director’s cut of the Lord of the Rings trilogy multiple times.
these seemingly small infractions mirror something far greater: a growing disregard for authority and for one another.
THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF OBEDIENCE
From a Christian perspective, lawfulness matters—not just because it maintains public order, but because it reflects the heart of God. Romans 13:1–2 tells us, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” Obeying just laws is one way we honour God, who is a God
of order, not chaos (1 Corinthians 14:33). Jesus taught His followers to love their neighbours as themselves (Mark 12:31). When we speed through school zones, park anywhere we want, or fail to give pedestrians the right of way, we are not just breaking rules—we are endangering lives and showing contempt for our neighbours. The Christian call to love must be expressed even in how we drive.
WHAT TRAFFIC
LAWLESSNESS TELLS US
Consistent disregard for traffic laws isn’t simply about rebellious drivers—it often reveals a society losing its grip on shared values.
When people act as though rules don’t apply to them, it points to deeper issues: pride, selfishness, and a weakening of communal bonds.
In the Caribbean, we often pride ourselves on community spirit, respect for elders, and a laid-back way of life. But how can that spirit thrive when road rage, lawlessness, and accidents become daily realities? When laws are not enforced, or when citizens feel free to ignore them without consequence, it tells those watching that rules are optional— and that authority doesn’t matter.
CONCLUSION: IT’S MORE
THAN JUST A TRAFFIC VIOLATION
When traffic laws are respected and enforced, they foster a sense of safety, trust, and dignity in a society. But when they are ignored, and authorities turn a blind eye, they become a signal of deeper decline. Jesus said in Luke 16:10, “Whoever is faithful in little things will be faithful in much.”
Obeying traffic laws may seem like a “little thing,” but it reflects whether we value life, honor authority, and seek the common good. Christians should lead by example in this area. Yes, you read that right. Faith in Jesus must shape not just how we worship on Sunday but how we live Monday through Saturday.
That includes driving responsibly, respecting laws, and encouraging others to do the same. As Christians, let’s not treat traffic laws as mere suggestions but as one more way to live out our love for God and neighbour in a world that desperately needs both.
Wild, free, and out of control
Grand Turk’s animal debacle is no island secret
I felt compelled to put pen to paper on this matter once again. You don’t expect to slam your brakes in paradise. But in Grand Turk, it’s becoming routine.
Donkeys roam on the side of the roads, darting into traffic, and packs of feral dogs guard the neighbourhoods. Tourists freeze as animals charge across roads. This isn’t just island charm anymore— it’s an unfolding dilemma.
I’ve had near-misses myself. And I’m not alone. Locals and visitors are often caught in dangerous encounters with animals that, while symbolic of Grand Turk’s identity, now pose very real threats.
The truth is, Grand Turk is known for romanticising the wild. Whale watching, stingray encounters, feral dogs. Donkeys in particular, once essential to Grand Turk’s salt trade in the 1800s, are no longer beasts of burden—but neither are they properly managed.
Estimates put the donkey population at around 300 on a 10.5-square-mile island. Factor in feral dogs—many “quasi-owned,” but rarely trained or contained—
BY ED FORBES A concerned citizen of Grand Turk
and what you have is the beginning of chaos in paradise.
Tourists may marvel at the novelty of roadside donkeys or trail behind a dog to the beach. But they don’t witness the aftermath: the accidents, the injuries, the destruction of garbage, etc. Nor do they grasp that the open pastures once used for grazing are now vanishing under side roads and new development.
So, whose space is it now?
Are the animals invading ours, or are we quietly bulldozing theirs, leaving less and less vegetation to feed on?
This isn’t just a debate about wildlife. It’s about responsibility. Grand Turk’s Department of Agriculture is in a predicament. The Turks & Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPA) does what it can, but without funding or full government backing, their hands
are tied. Volunteers try. Visitors from the UK recently met with residents to discuss potential solutions—but meetings alone don’t save lives.
A suggestion from an avid volunteer with Hooves & Paws TCI: create satellite watering holes placed far from high-traffic areas and properly maintain the existing ones. Another idea: a full-time veterinarian with support vehicles to assist with humane capture and care. But without advocacy in high positions, these ideas remain just that—ideas.
If Grand Turk wants to preserve its “Beautiful by Nature” identity, it needs more than slogans. It needs policy. It needs action. It needs a willingness to confront the uncomfortable truth: some of these animals are suffering.
No one wants to strip the island of its character. Donkeys, dogs, and even the occasional rooster
are part of what makes Grand Turk unforgettable. But when charm turns into hazard—when beauty collides with danger—it’s time to stop romanticising and start organising in order to see it from a different perspective.
There is no perfect solution. But continuing to do nothing only guarantees more accidents, more heartbreak, and more erosion of the very essence we claim to protect.
The wild can still be free, yet harmony between humans and
animals is possible. However, this delicate balance demands more than passive acknowledgment. I believe both animals and humans can coexist, but time is running out.
This administration, in partnership with dedicated local volunteers, must rise to the challenge, forging innovative and imaginative strategies to steward and safeguard this environment before neglect turns into irreversible loss.
We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics
Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested. Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com
Care less: five reasons why anxiety is a waste of time
I am not talking about your failed relationships. I am talking about wasting time on things that may never be happy, avoid spending time going around the wheels of anxiety, it is not helping anything and anyone. Anxiety is more than just wasted time—it’s wasted energy, potential, and joy. While wasted time simply slips away, anxiety traps us in a cycle of suffering, robbing us of the present moment. Here are five reasons why you need to care less:
YOU’RE TIME-TRAVELING TO THE FUTURE… THAT DOESN’T EXIST
Anxiety loves to whisk you away to a future that hasn’t happened yet. Spoiler alert: you can’t
BY DAVIDSON LOUIS
Rachel Wolchin once said: “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have had roots instead of feet.” On this quest to self-discovery, TC Islander Davidson Louis vowed to travel, write, paint, laugh and forgive. Subsequently, he hopes to find himself and or, leave behind a few pieces of himself. Contact him at hello. octopen@tcinews.tc
predict the future! But here you are, stressed about something that may never happen. Might as well grab some popcorn and wait for your imaginary disaster to unfold!
YOU’RE PRACTICING FOR PROBLEMS THAT AREN’T REAL
Imagine preparing for a disaster that only exists in your mind. Anxiety has you running through endless scenarios of things that haven’t even occurred yet. It’s like rehearsing for a play that you’ll never get the script for. So, why bother?
IT DOESN’T SOLVE
ANYTHING
Worrying doesn’t magically fix anything. In fact, it’s like trying to use a hairdryer to fix your broken phone. It’s just not going to work, but anxiety keeps convincing you it’s the right tool for the job.
YOU COULD BE DOING LITERALLY ANYTHING ELSE
Instead of spiralling into panic, think of all the productive things you could be doing. You could be learning how to juggle, making a snack, or starting that hobby you’ve been putting off. Anything, really. Anything but worrying!
YOU DESERVE BETTER THAN TO WASTE YOUR TIME ON IT
Life’s too short to let anxiety control you. There are too many beautiful moments waiting to be enjoyed—like petting a dog, getting lost in a song, or finding a hidden gem of a snack in your kitchen. Anxiety? Not worth it. Go live your best life instead! So, next time anxiety comes knocking, just remember: it’s a time-sucker, a mind-bender, and frankly, it’s not welcome here! Leave it out on the front door and reach out for a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc instead. *Low-key, not promoting excessive drinking!
Feel free to contradict and share your own viewpoint if you’re open to that: @Daviid.l2 on Instagram
Crown Land Unit introduces CLASP initiative for improved land management
An extensive study aimed at improving the administration and governance of Crown Land in the Turks and Caicos Islands garnered 146 recommendations, culminating in the creation of a Crown Land Access Support Programme (CLASP).
On March 20, the Crown Land Unit hosted a pivotal presentation with key government stakeholders outlining the implementation plan for CLASP. The meeting brought together representatives from the National Land Secretariat, including the Crown Land Unit, Survey and Mapping Department, Valuation Department, and Land Registry, alongside officials from the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR),
Housing Department, and Attorney General’s Chambers.
This week, the Unit said the event marks a significant step toward reforming and enhancing Crown Land management in the Islands.
Through CLASP, the Unit aims to improve land management in the TCI by streamlining the land administration processes, enhancing access to land resources, improving efficiency and transparency, implementing technological advancements in land management practices, and increasing capacity to offer better support to customers.
By setting clear objectives and workstreams, CLASP intends to transform policy recommendations into tangible improvements.
TCI reinforces safeguarding measures with advanced training for professionals
In a drive to strengthen protections for vulnerable adults and children, the Department of Social Development and Welfare in the Turks and Caicos Islands, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, has successfully concluded a three-day specialised training programme for frontline professionals.
The “Achieving Best Evidence” (ABE) training, held from 24th to 26th March 2025 at the Hamilton Foundation Conference Room, was designed to equip professionals— including social workers, police officers, gender officers, and probation officers—with advanced interview techniques and legal knowledge. This vital programme represents a decisive step toward fostering safer communities and delivering justice to those affected by trauma or exploitation.
Director at the Department of Social Development and Welfare, Ashley Adams-Forbes stressed the importance of the training in elevating safeguarding practices.
“Working with vulnerable adults and children requires a high level of sensitivity and expertise. The ABE training, aligned with Chapter 2.16 of the Vulnerable Witness Ordinance Revised Edition (2021)
The Unit said the presentation is just one of the first steps in a long-term commitment by the government to enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in Crown Land management.
Tatum Clerveaux, Commissioner of Lands, lauded the initiative for its transformative impact: “As we utilize the CLASP Initiative to reform and enhance the systems currently in place, our implementation plan provides us with an outline which identifies the key steps we will take to achieve these vital changes. With a strong focus on timelines, resource allocation, and seamless coordination among stakeholders, we will successfully redefine land management for a more sustainable,
transparent, and efficient future.”
In 2022, the Cooper-Gardiner Report, which provided a comprehensive assessment of Crown Land policies, processes, resourcing, and legislation, was submitted to the government. The review was led by two independent consultants: Professor S. A. A. Cooper, PhD, nominated by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office; and Ricardo Donhue Gardiner, Attorney at Law, Notary Public, and Justice of the Peace, nominated by the government. Their study resulted in 146 recommendations aimed at improving Crown Land administration and governance.
The Crown Land Unit then engaged
EY Consultants of Jamaica to support the creation of the CLASP Initiative.
The CLASP initiative has been developed as a structured approach to implementing the recommendations that come directly from the CooperGardiner Report. It is designed to ensure effective, transparent, and sustainable Crown Land management, benefiting both the government and the public.
They said that once the initiative is fully rolled out, key stakeholders will work collaboratively to ensure the success of CLASP projects, ensuring that land resources are effectively managed, equitably distributed, and sustainably developed for future generations.
and the Criminal Procedure Rules (2021), provided professionals with the tools necessary to navigate complex situations, ensuring every individual is treated with dignity and respect. This training was not merely beneficial; it was essential for effective safeguarding,” she stated.
The programme focused on evidence-based practices, traumainformed approaches, and fostering inter-agency collaboration— crucial elements for dealing with vulnerable populations. Participants learned about effective interview techniques, legal and ethical considerations, and the importance of creating supportive environments. The training also addressed the intricacies of conducting interviews tailored to the needs of adults and children while adhering to strict legal and ethical standards surrounding evidence collection.
Joseph Phippard, an accredited PIP (Professionalising Investigation Programme) Level 2 qualified investigator from the United Kingdom, facilitated the training. With over 30 years of experience in policing vulnerable populations, Phippard brought unparalleled expertise in witness and suspect interviewing, the
ABE process, and Tier 5 interview management. His international experience, including his work with the St. Helena Criminal Investigation Department, added a vital dimension to the training.
The Minister responsible for the Department of Social Development and Welfare, Hon Shaun Malcolm underscored the significance of continuous investment in professional development. “By
investing in the training and development of professionals working with vulnerable adults and children, we make a momentous stride towards building safer communities and ensuring every individual receives the protection and support they deserve. This is a commitment we must uphold to empower those who serve our communities,” he remarked. Participants expressed their
gratitude for the valuable insights and skills gained, highlighting the programme’s impact on their ability to safeguard vulnerable individuals effectively. The ABE training initiative exemplifies the Turks and Caicos Islands government’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and care in protecting its most vulnerable citizens. (OLIVIA ROSE)
The Achieving Best Evidence (ABE) training brought together social workers, police officers, gender officers, and probation officers (Photos: TCIG)
Participants during a session with the facilitator
Crown Land Unit cracks down on illegal occupation in Five Cays
A multi-agency enforcement exercise led by the Crown Land Unit (CLU) targeted illegal occupation and encroachment on Crown lands in the Five Cays area.
On Wednesday, March 5, 2025, the CLU, in collaboration with the Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) and the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services, conducted inspections in Blocks 60604 and 60610. Security support was provided by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
During the operation, numerous unauthorised structures were identified. Consequently, 32 Letters of Illegal Occupation were issued to individuals residing in these structures.
These letters were delivered in person or posted on unoccupied structures.
Additionally, three Notices of Unauthorised Occupation were served on incomplete and unoccupied structures, as mandated by the Crown Land Ordinance.
This action underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing land-use regulations and
safeguarding Crown lands from illegal encroachment.
In a recent statement, the ISU revealed that a staggering 5,404 illegal structures have been identified across the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), revealing a significant crisis in informal settlements.
The ISU recently released findings from its 2024 year-end review, detailing the extensive data-gathering efforts and the sheer scale of the issue plaguing the islands.
Aerial surveys and Geographical Informal Systems (GIS) mapping have confirmed the presence of these structures across 31 of 50 identified informal settlement sites.
The ISU’s review highlighted major advancements in managing the proliferation of these settlements.
Key initiatives included GIS mapping, a Social Needs Assessment Survey, and the drafting of Land Use Subdivision Plans.
According to the ISU, these efforts aim to understand and address the complex issues
‘Mac 10’ charged with 2022 murder
Mervin Joseph, a 24-year-old man also known as ‘Mac 10’, has been remanded to His Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk on charges of murder and robbery.
Officers of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force formally charged the Dock Yard, Kew Town man with killing Peterson Campbell.
Twenty-two-year-old Campbell was fatally shot along Reece Street in Five Cays, Providenciales on September 30, 2022.
Authorities said that following 30 months of intensive investigations, and in consultation with the Office of the Director of
An illegal structure in Five Cays reclaimed by the ISU
associated with informal settlements.
The 50 known sites are estimated to occupy a whopping 576.18 acres of Crown and private lands. The Informal Settlements Unit emphasized its ongoing dedication to working with partners to ensure
lawful land administration and promote safer, more sustainable communities across the Turks and Caicos Islands. (OLIVIA ROSE)
Jacques Joseph gunned down outside his home in targeted shooting
Fifty-nine-year-old Jacques Joseph is the territory’s latest murder, following a targeted attack last Sunday night (March 30). Authorities reported that the man was shot as he exited his vehicle outside his residence.
The incident occurred at about 6:40pm when Joseph returned home to Dako Yard, Blue Hills, Providenciales, after work.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Joseph had just arrived home from a day at work when he was approached by several assailants who shot him before he could exit his vehicle.
Public Prosecutions (DPP), officers formally charged the accused with murder, contrary to Section 3 of the Offences Against the Person Act, Chapter 3.08 and robbery, contrary to Section 10 (1) of The Theft Act, Chapter 3.10. Joseph will remain in custody until June 6, 2025, when a sufficiency hearing will be held.
In a statement on Thursday, police assured: “The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force remains committed to ensuring justice and public safety. While investigations are still ongoing, we wish to reassure the families affected by crime that we have not given up on their receiving closure.”
Police said the four armed and masked suspects then escaped by running off into nearby bushes.
An all-points bulletin (APB) was issued, and a team of officers was dispatched to the scene. Upon their arrival at the location, it was observed that a male was slumped in a red vehicle with what appeared to be gunshot wounds.
“Our investigations so far have revealed this was a targeted attack, but we are probing all angles to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragedy,” authorities added.
The Serious Crime Unit is seeking the assistance of members of the public following the brutal murder. Anyone who witnessed this incident or has video footage is urged to contact the police, as their assistance is needed.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the closest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide information anonymously. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information.
Public Appeal
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is appealing to any member of public who may have any information on any crimes. They can contact Chalk Sound Police Station on 338-5901 or make use of the confidential reporting system through Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477.
CHHS student takes top honours at National High School Speech Competition
BY OLIVIA ROSE
In a display of eloquence and powerful storytelling, Reriana Nikes of Clement Howell Secondary School emerged victorious at the 2nd Annual National High School Speech Competition, held at Beaches Turks and Caicos on Tuesday, 1 April 2025.
Eight schools from across the islands gathered to witness students tackle the challenging theme of “Turning Setbacks into Comebacks, The Power of a Second Chance”.
The competition, which also served as the Second Chance Advocacy Event, highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and societal reintegration, drawing an audience of local dignitaries, educators, students, and parents.
Nikes’ winning speech captivated the judges and audience alike, earning her the coveted firstplace spot.
Anique Archer from Maranatha Academy secured second place, while Damian Misick of A. Louis Garland Thomas High School took third place.
The event was not just a competition but a platform for young voices to be heard on critical issues facing society.
Reriana Nikes, the champion, delivered a message of resilience and hope. She stressed the importance of community members being agents of hope, justice, and redemption, encapsulating the event’s core theme.
Her powerful words resonated deeply, emphasising the potential for transformation and the importance of second chances.
Anique Archer, the secondplace winner, also delivered a compelling speech, sharing personal stories and examples of resilience. Her articulate delivery and insightful perspectives left a lasting impression.
Damian Misick, who secured
third place, spoke passionately about the topic, bringing his unique perspective and contributing to the event’s rich dialogue.
The competition featured a range of other talented presenters, including Anavia Mantock of HJ Robinson High School, Ta’Halia Davidson of Marjorie Basden High School, and Kiarah McClean of Precious Treasures International High School, each bringing their unique voice to the theme.
David Lorestil, a third-form student representing TCIPS Comprehensive High School, shared a personal anecdote and said, “We all experienced moments where life did not go as planned… But what if I told you that setbacks are not the end of the journey. Instead, they can be the start of something even greater. Second chances are real, and they have the power to turn failures into comebacks.”
He emphasised the importance of learning from setbacks and using
them as opportunities for growth.
Kiarah McClean of Precious Treasures International High School delivered a particularly moving speech, saying, “Picture this, you’re on a winding road driving towards your destination. Suddenly you hit a roadblock so imposing it forces you to stop, to rethink, or worse, to turn back.
In life, we call these moments setbacks… Setbacks are not the end of the story. They are simply the pause before the next chapter.”
She highlighted examples of famous individuals who turned setbacks into comebacks, including Robert Downey Jr and Malcolm X.
She also honoured the late Jim Kelly Joseph, saying, “Even warriors stumble… But did he give up? He trained, he taught and inspired, even from behind bars. When he was released, he picked up where he left off, serving and giving back.”
The event was graced by the presence of several local
dignitaries, including Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood, Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang, Minister of Education Hon Rachel Taylor, and other government ministers.
Hon Taylor praised all the participants, saying, “I must say that you are all winners because you are here today to represent your school… This theme resonates deeply with all of us as it serves as a reminder of the transformative power of rehabilitation, redemption and integration into our communities.”
The speeches not only showcased the students’ oratory skills but also their deep understanding of the theme. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of second chances, resilience, and the potential for transformation in every individual.
Additionally, prizes included laptops, monetary gifts, tablets, and other prizes from the Rotary Club of Providenciales and Flow.
Winner: Reriana Nikes of Clement Howell High
Damian Misick of A. Louis Garland Thomas High School was awarded third place
Judges, students and attendees at the event
Anique Archer from Maranatha Academy was awarded the second place
Special Needs Dept commemorates world
autism awareness day and month
In recognition of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and Autism Acceptance Month, the Department of Special Education Needs Services (SENS) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting individuals with autism and their families through enhanced services, awareness campaigns, and inclusive initiatives.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition affecting communication, behaviour, and social interactions.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), as of 2023, approximately 1 in 100 children globally have autism.
In the Turks and Caicos Islands, the SENS Department has identified a growing number of individuals diagnosed with autism, with a database now exceeding 300 persons, mostly individuals on the autism spectrum. This underscores the need for continued advocacy, early intervention, and specialised support services.
The Special Education Department has implemented several initiatives to improve access to quality services for individuals with autism. These include
behavioural therapy & speechlanguage services, with occupational therapy services to commence very soon; psychoeducational and neuropsychological assessments; and audiology assessments.
Under the theme, ‘Celebrating Differences’, the Department will be hosting several events throughout April. The main event is a series of Autism Awareness ‘Rainbow Walks’ that will be held across all islands to raise awareness and foster community inclusion.
Other events will include church Services to promote faith-based inclusion and support; educational workshops for teachers and parents on strategies for working with children with autism; and sports and social activities to encourage interaction and acceptance among children with autism and their peers.
Dr Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, Director of SENS, emphasised the significance of community involvement in autism advocacy.
“Our goal is to not only raise awareness but to cultivate an inclusive society where individuals with autism can thrive. Through expanded services, training, and
national events, we are working towards a future where all individuals, regardless of ability, have access to the support they need.”
Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, said they recognise that early intervention and sustained support are key to
ensuring that individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives. “The Ministry of Education remains committed to strengthening our services, investing in resources,
and fostering an environment of acceptance and inclusion for all.” Residents are invited to participate in the upcoming Autism Awareness and Acceptance events.
Customs and Immigration offences can now be reported on Border Force hotline
The Border Force department has launched an anonymous tip hotline on its website, borderforce. gov.tc, encouraging the public to anonymously and directly report any customs or immigration offences and suspicious activity to its intelligence unit.
Offences may include but are not limited to bribery and collusion, human trafficking, smuggling, fraudulent evasion, unlawful entry, and harbouring. When making a report, individuals are encouraged to be as detailed as possible, including dates, locations, descriptions, and other relevant information, the department advised in a statement this week.
Residents are also advised that while social media can raise awareness, vague reports online do not provide the necessary details for action to be taken. Instead, they should make these reports through
the department’s official and secure channels, such as the tipline. “By using the correct channels, the public can make a real impact in ensuring our borders are safeguarded, and our nation’s prosperity is protected,” Border Force said. Director General Emilio Seymour stated: “Border Force guarantees confidentiality and anonymity for those reporting potential violations. Anonymous social media posts with limited information cannot be investigated properly. By using our official reporting channels, people can ensure their concerns are addressed effectively.”
He added: “Our priority is to protect our borders and uphold the law, but we need the public’s help in the right way.”
To report a suspected customs or immigration offence, contact the department’s website borderforce.gov.tc, email tciintel@gov.tc or by telephone +1 649 232-6616.
The Governor, Premier and members of the Cabinet commemorate the day
Public servants joined the Deputy Governor’s Office in observing Autism Awareness Month
Body found in Providenciales, search for missing man ends
Residents of Providenciales were met with distressing news Sunday as the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) confirmed the discovery of a body, suspected to be that of 41-year-old Denroy Forbes, who was reported missing the previous week.
The discovery followed an extensive search effort by family, friends, and the community.
Concerns had heightened regarding Forbes’s well-being, with family and friends publicly sharing that he had been dealing with mental health challenges. The search for Forbes saw a significant community response, with many assisting in distributing flyers, conducting searches, and offering support.
The body was located near a sewage area behind the 2005 complex on Academy Way.
The RTCIPF released a statement confirming the discovery: “The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force confirms that at approximately 12:43 pm today (30th March), a search party discovered a body along Academy Way, Providenciales. The body was found in some bushes and is suspected to be that of 41-yearold DENROY FORBES, who was reported missing last week”.
Police officers, along with Forbes’s relatives, friends, and
The area where Forbes’s body was discovered
the TCI Regiment, were actively involved in the search efforts.
The RTCIPF expressed their condolences, stating, “We extend our deepest condolences to Mr Forbes’ family and friends during this difficult time.”
Couple arrested with large amounts of weed and molly
A 58-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man are in police custody on suspicion of possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply. The couple were arrested with a large quantity of suspected cannabis and tablets of methamphetamine (street name ‘molly’).
Officers from the Serious Crime Unit, along with the force’s tactical team, supported by a K9 from the TCI Regiment, converged on a home at Pete Court, Kew Town, Providenciales on March 27. They were at the time executing a warrant obtained under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
During the search, officers
discovered several ‘dealer’ bags containing suspected cannabis bush, along with a larger bag of the same substance. An undisclosed number of tablets suspected to be methamphetamine was also found in the home.
The couple remains in custody while officers carry out further enquiries.
Police are encouraging anyone with information related to drug possession to come forward and report it confidentially. Notify the nearest police station, call 911, contact the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or on the Crime Stoppers P3 app.
The police emphasized that “This remains an active matter as we await the results of an autopsy to ascertain the cause of death formally”.
The RTCIPF is urging anyone with information to come forward,
adding, “If you were among the last to see Mr Forbes or noticed anything suspicious, no matter how small, we encourage you to contact the police immediately. Any piece of information could be crucial in determining the circumstances
surrounding his disappearance and death.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police at 911, the nearest police station, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477.
North Caicos man on wounding charge
Terrico Misick, a 28-year-old North Caicos man, was granted $10,000 bail with one surety when he appeared before a Magistrate charged with wounding.
Misick appeared in court on Thursday, April 3, charged with causing grievous bodily harm to another man.
The accused was placed on strict bail conditions requiring him to sign in at the Whitby Police Station on specified days and times as outlined by the Court. He must also remain at his residence between 10 pm and 6 am. He must not have any contact with the victim directly or indirectly, nor instruct anyone to do so on his behalf.
The charge stems from an incident on March 28. On the day in question, officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force responded to a report of a wounding incident at a Kew, North Caicos location.
Upon arrival at the scene
and subsequently at the Nivlyn Butterfield Clinic, officers observed a man victim who had sustained severe facial injuries. Following investigations,
Misick was arrested and later charged.
He is expected to reappear in Court on June 6 for a sufficiency hearing.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is appealing to any member of public who may have any information on any crimes. They can contact Chalk Sound Police Station on 338-5901 or make use of the confidential reporting system through Crimestoppers on 1-8008477.
Denroy Forbes in happier times
Regional
Haitian ex-mayor guilty of US visa fraud linked to torture
A former Haitian mayor was convicted recently of US charges that he had lied about having led a brutal campaign to kill and torture his political opponents in order to secure a green card allowing him to reside in the United States.
Jean Morose Viliena, now a lawful permanent U.S. resident who at the time of his indictment in 2023 was working as a truck driver and living in Malden, Massachusetts, was found guilty by a federal jury in Boston of three counts of visa fraud.
Prosecutors announced those charges a day after a different jury in a civil case ordered the former mayor of the rural Haitian town of Les Irois to pay $15.5 million to three Haitians who accused him of persecuting them or their families.
Viliena, 52, is appealing that earlier verdict and has argued he is innocent. Chief U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor scheduled sentencing for June 20. Viliena’s attorney did not respond to a request for comment.
Both the criminal and civil case shed a light on the widespread violence that has plagued Haiti.
Prosecutors said that in applying for a visa in 2008, Viliena had affirmed on a form that he had not “ordered, carried out or materially
assisted in extrajudicial and political killings and other acts of violence against the Haitian people.”
In fact, Viliena, after being elected to a four-year term as mayor of Les Irois in December 2006, personally committed or ordered the maiming, harm, humiliation or death of his adversaries, prosecutors alleged.
They said the victims include the three Haitians who pursued the earlier lawsuit, David Boniface, Juders Yseme and Nissage Martyr.
That case was filed in 2017 under the Torture Victim Protection Act, which allows for U.S. lawsuits against foreign officials accused of extrajudicial killings or torture when avenues for redress in their home countries are exhausted.
Prosecutors said Viliena in 2007 led a group of armed men to Boniface’s home who then beat and fatally shot his brother, and later mobilized a group in 2008 that beat and shot Martyr and Yseme at a community radio station. (Reuters)
PM Davis: Heads will roll over Abaco delays
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis issued a blistering rebuke of public officials and contractors on Friday, warning that “heads will roll” over the slow pace of reconstruction in Abaco.
In a private Progressive Liberal Party branch meeting on the island, Mr Davis condemned delays and mismanagement in the stormbattered community’s recovery, vowing to hold accountable anyone who has failed to deliver.
“Let me say this plainly — what has happened in Abaco is unacceptable,” he said, according to a transcript obtained by The Tribune and verified by attendees.
“The delays, the confusion, the excuses. Too many people have been paid to do a job and haven’t delivered. Too many agencies have
treated Abaco like an afterthought.
“If you’re standing in the way of progress, you will be moved. If you’ve been collecting a salary but haven’t delivered results, you will be replaced. If you’re sitting on files, causing delays, you will answer for it. Heads will roll. The people of Abaco deserve no less. I didn’t come here to offer soft words or sweet talk—I came to make it clear that accountability has reached the top, and it’s moving all the way down.” Government officials did not respond to requests for comment about which projects have frustrated the prime minister, but The Tribune understands they are infrastructure-related, with his ire directed particularly at technocrats in the Ministry of Works.
Trump slaps 10% tariff on most Caribbean countries
US President Donald Trump announced on April 2, 2025, a 10% tariff on exports from most Caribbean countries, including Jamaica, to the American market.
The decision, unveiled during a White House media conference, is part of a broader move to impose reciprocal tariffs on countries that tax US imports.
This tariff applies to several Caribbean nations, including St. Lucia, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, The Bahamas, Grenada, St. Kitts, Guyana, Haiti, Sint Maarten, Suriname, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Barbados, Cayman, Curacao, Bermuda, Turks and Caicos, Aruba, St. Vincent, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Dominica, Anguilla, and Antigua.
Each of these nations will now face the same 10% levy on goods entering the US.
In other words, persons importing goods from those countries into the US will pay the tariff.
A minimum 10% tariff was levied on all countries while additional levies were placed on approximately 60 nations deemed the worst offenders
The White House justified the tariff as a reciprocal measure in response to a 10% duty that Jamaica and other Caribbean nations impose on US imports.
ECONOMIC IMPACT ON THE CARIBBEAN AND
DIASPORA
Caribbean nations, many of which depend on the US as their primary trade partner, could face economic strain due to the new tariffs. Businesses that export products like rum, coffee, seafood, and manufactured goods to the US will
have to factor in the additional cost to importers, potentially reducing their competitiveness.
FOR THE CARIBBEAN AND THE DIASPORA, THIS MEANS:
Higher cost for importers –Caribbean businesses in the diaspora importing products to the U.S. now face an extra 10% tariff, which can reduce their profit margins or force them to raise prices.
Reduced Sales and Economic Slowdown – If sales drop due to the increased costs, Caribbean businesses may struggle, leading to job losses and slower economic growth.
Higher Prices on Caribbean Goods in the US – Caribbean products like coffee, rum, and seafood could become more expensive for U.S. consumers as importers and retailers pass on the additional cost.
Fewer Caribbean Products Available – If Caribbean exporters
reduce shipments due to the tariffs, some goods could become harder to find in US supermarkets and specialty stores.
Speaking in the White House Rose Garden against a backdrop of US flags, Trump imposed even steeper tariffs on China (34%), the European Union (20%), Japan (24%), and other major trade partners. He described the move as part of a broader effort to correct what he called unfair trade practices.
“For decades, our country has been looted, pillaged, raped, and plundered by nations near and far, both friend and foe alike,” Trump declared. “This is Liberation Day.” The tariffs will take effect immediately, alongside previously announced 25% auto tariffs set to begin at midnight. While Trump promised that the tariffs would bring jobs back to America, critics warn they could lead to price hikes for U.S. consumers and strain relations with key allies. (Caribbeannationalweekly)
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis
Ex Mayor Jean Morose Viliena
Regional
WMO retires hurricane names Beryl, Helene, Milton and John
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced Tuesday that it has permanently retired the hurricane names Beryl, Helene, and Milton from its Atlantic basin list and John from the eastern Pacific basin list due to the extensive destruction and loss of life these storms caused during the 2024 hurricane season.
Brianna, Holly, and Miguel will replace the retired Atlantic names, while Jake will replace John in the eastern Pacific naming system.
“The work of the Hurricane Committee is critical to ensuring that everyone in the region across the Atlantic and east Pacific basins is ready for the upcoming 2025 hurricane season, providing early warnings for all and reducing the impacts to life and property from these dangerous storms,” said Michael Brennan, Chair of the Hurricane Committee and Director of the Regional Meteorological Specialized Center Miami.
WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo addressed the committee meeting in San Salvador, El Salvador, emphasizing the importance of their work: “Since 1978, the WMO Hurricane Committee has served as a vital platform for operational collaboration and partnership. Thanks to your dedication, we have saved countless lives and averted many millions of dollars in economic losses. However, it only takes one landfalling hurricane to undermine years of development. Whilst the USA
bears the biggest outright economic losses, Small Island Developing States and fragile economies suffer disproportionately.”
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was remarkably active, marking the ninth consecutive season with above-average activity. The basin experienced 18 named storms, including 11 hurricanes, with five intensifying to major hurricane status (Category 3 or higher).
Hurricane Beryl made history as the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin. It caused severe devastation across the Caribbean, particularly in Grenada’s dependencies of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, where up to 98% of homes were damaged or destroyed. The storm
Bahamas: Stepfather accused of molesting 12-year-old
A 40-Year-old man was remanded this week after he was accused of molesting his 12-year-old stepdaughter twice over the past ten months.
Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans arraigned the defendant — whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the child — on two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a dependent child.
Prosecutors allege that the accused had unlawful sexual intercourse with his stepdaughter in New Providence between June 1 and June 30, 2024. He is further accused of molesting her again when she was 13, between February 1 and 28, 2025.
With the aid of a Creole translator, the defendant was
informed that he was not required to enter a plea at this stage. The matter will proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).
He was also informed of his right to apply for bail in the Supreme Court.
The defendant will remain on remand at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until July 16, when the VBI may be served.
Magistrate Vogt-Evans instructed the man not to speak to family members present in court. Before being taken into custody, the defendant raised his hands in apparent disbelief as he looked at his family.
Assistant Superintendent S Coakley served as the prosecutor. (Tribune242)
claimed 34 lives across the region.
Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 4 storm on September 26, causing catastrophic flooding across the southern Appalachians and widespread wind damage from the Gulf Coast to North Carolina. With more than 248 fatalities, Helene became the deadliest hurricane to affect the continental U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Damage estimates reached $78.7 billion, making it the seventh costliest U.S. hurricane when adjusted to 2024 values.
Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane near Siesta Key, Florida, on October 9, after experiencing one of the fastest rates of rapid intensification ever observed.
The storm caused 15 fatalities and approximately $34.3 billion in damages, including a historic and deadly tornado outbreak across Florida.
In the eastern Pacific, Hurricane John struck Mexico’s state of Guerrero as a Category 3 hurricane on September 24 before making a second landfall as a tropical storm
in Michoacán. John produced extreme rainfall and extensive flooding across southern Mexico, resulting in 29 deaths and damage to more than 150,000 homes.
At Acapulco airport, 1,442.0 mm of rainfall was recorded between September 22 and 27 – exceeding the location’s annual average.
The WMO Hurricane Committee also updated its operational plan to allow for earlier warnings, with Potential Tropical Cyclone advisories now permitted up to 72 hours before impacts, providing greater lead time for storm preparation.
Between 1970 and 2021, tropical cyclones were the leading cause of both reported human and economic losses worldwide, accounting for more than 2,000 disasters. While improved early warning systems have significantly reduced fatalities, economic losses continue to rise, making tropical cyclones a key priority for the international Early Warnings For All initiative.
The WMO retires hurricane names when storms are so deadly or destructive that future use would be insensitive. Since the naming system began, 103 names have been retired from the Atlantic basin list. (Loop News)
Caribbean told heatwaves will not be
as intensive as past two years
The Barbados-based Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF), says a Caribbean heat season with heatwaves will most likely begin occurring as early as April and gradually ramping up, but is unlikely to match 2023 and 2024.
CariCOF in its latest Caribbean Climate Outlooks for the upcoming period April to June, released on Monday, said that this is due to El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) neutral conditions in the Pacific, combined with unusually warm waters around the Caribbean and temporarily cooler waters in the eastern Tropical North Atlantic.
It is also predicting that in April, high evaporation rates, frequent short dry spells and buildup of any ongoing drought increases wildfire potential.
CariCOF says except for the mostly dry ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), rainfall intensity and shower frequency should rise towards May in the Bahamas, Guianas and Greater Antilles, or June in Belize and the Lesser Antilles “resulting in high
to extremely high potential for flooding, flash floods, cascading hazards and associated impacts.
“Episodes of Saharan dust intrusion will likely be frequent; the more frequent these are, the more dryness and heat, and the more erratic the occurrence of severe weather,” CariCOF added.
In its latest drought situation, CariCOf said moderate, or worse,
short-term drought has developed in the central and northern Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, parts of St. Croix, Sint Maarten and St. Bart’s.
It said long-term drought is evolving in southern Belize, northern Dominican Republic, southwest Jamaica, St. Bart’s, St. Vincent, southeast Suriname and northwest Trinidad. (Loop News)
The WMO retires hurricane names when storms are so deadly or destructive that future use would be insensitive
The heatwaves will increase from this month, but not to the scale of the last two years
World leaders criticise Trump tariffs as ‘major blow’
President Donald Trump’s decision to impose new tariffs on all goods entering the US is a “major blow to the world economy”, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has said.
Her comments echo those of a number of other countries, including China, which has expressed its opposition to the move and has warned it will take “resolute countermeasures” against the US.
Their words of warning come after Trump announced a universal 10% tariff on all imports into the US from 5 April. Around 60 countries will also be hit with steeper tariffs from 9 April.
The US president said the measures were payback for unfair trade policies, adding that he had been “very kind” in his decisions.
Trump has said the tariffs will be used to boost US manufacturing, saying on Wednesday that the move would “make America wealthy again”.
Giving a statement on Thursday morning, von der Leyen said the new tax imports will see “uncertainty spiral”, causing “dire” consequences “for millions of people around the globe”.
She emphasised the impact on the most vulnerable countries, pointing out that several of those nations are now subject to some of the highest US tariffs.
Von der Leyen vowed that
Europe would take a unified approach and warned that the European Union - which will be subject to a 20% tariff - is preparing countermeasures in case negotiations fail.
“If you take on one of us, you take on all of us”, she said.
Negotiations between different EU member states will begin next week, Bernd Lange, who chairs the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade said.
Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, a Trump ally, said the decision was “wrong” but that she would work towards a deal with the US to “prevent a trade war”.
Her Spanish counterpart Pedro Sánchez said Spain would “continue to be committed to an
open world”, while in Ireland, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Trump’s decision was “deeply regrettable” and benefitted no-one.
French President Emmanuel Macron will meet representatives from business sectors hit by the new taxes at the Élysée Palace on Thursday, his office said.
Government spokeswoman Sophie Primas said that France was “ready for this trade war”.
Poland’s leader Donald Tusk said the tariffs could cost his country losses of more than 10 billion zloty (£2bn; $2.6bn) and called it a “severe and unpleasant blow” on X.
Outside of Europe, China - one of the countries deemed the “worst offenders” by the US president -
NYC Mayor Eric Adams says he will run for reelection as an independent
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is ditching the Democratic Party as he seeks a second term.
Adams, who was a Republican before he became a Democrat, formally announced his mayoral reelection campaign in a video Thursday, saying he plans to run as an independent.
“Though I am still a Democrat, I am announcing that I will forego the Democratic primary for mayor and appeal directly to all New Yorkers as an Independent candidate in the general election,” Adams said in the video.
The move, which comes less than 24 hours after a judge permanently dismissed a federal corruption case against the mayor, sets up what is likely to be a frenzied, fast-paced race toward the general election in November. The charges were first dropped a few weeks into President Donald Trump’s second term in part because the case would impede
Adams’ ability to do his job as mayor, including cooperating with Trump’s immigration crackdown, the Justice Department’s new acting deputy attorney general wrote.
Several Democrats are seeking the party’s nomination, with former Gov. Andrew Cuomo currently leading in most polls.
The Democratic primary in New York, which is held in June,
was hit with a 34% tariff on goods, on top of an existing 20% levy, bringing total duties to at least 54%.
The ministry of commerce urged the US to “immediately cancel” the tariffs, adding that China would “resolutely take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests.”
Taiwan, which is set to face a 32% tariff for exports to the US, called the move “highly unreasonable”.
Premier Cho Jung-tai also said it would make “serious representations” to the US.
South Korean acting President Han Duck-soo said the global trade war “has become a reality” and his government would be looking at ways to “overcome the trade crisis” after the East Asian country was hit with a 25% rate.
Japan said its 24% levy was
“extremely regrettable” and could violate World Trade Organization and US-Japan agreements, while Thailand said it would negotiate its 36% tariff.
Economic officials in Israel, which had scrapped all tariffs on American imports ahead of the announcement, were said to be in “complete shock” over its 17% tariff, local media reported.
“We were sure that the decision to completely cancel tariffs on imports from the US would prevent this move”, an official told local media.
White House officials said its levies were reciprocal to countries, such as China, which it said charge higher tariffs on US goods, impose “non-tariff” barriers to US trade or have otherwise acted in ways the government feels undermine American economic goals. (BBC)
Nigerian pastor acquitted of rape after eight years in South African jail
After spending eight years in jail, a Nigerian televangelist accused of raping young women from his South African church has been found not guilty of all charges.
Timothy Omotoso had denied the 32 charges in a trial that was broadcast live and gained huge interest across the country.
In 2018, one witness told the court she had been raped by the pastor - who ran a church in the city of Port Elizabeth - when she was 14 years old.
is considered the determining race ahead of the November election. Democrats outnumber Republicans by large margins in the city; whoever wins the primary is seen as the likely victor in the general election. Michael Bloomberg, a once and now again Democrat, won mayoral races in the nation’s most populous city as an independent and as a Republican, spending millions of his personal fortune to do so.
When delivering the verdict on Wednesday, the judge presiding over the trial said that Mr Omotoso had been found not guilty because prosecutors had mishandled the case.
South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) shared a similar assessment, saying that “former prosecutors in the case acted improperly and the accused were not sufficiently cross-examined by the state”.
The NPA said it would now “consider its legal options” and that the drawn-out nature of the trial was partly down to Mr Omotoso filing numerous legal challenges.
For his part, Mr Omotoso told the media he thanked God for the verdict. Hi co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, were also found not guilty.
Mr Omotoso was dramatically arrested at an airport in 2017 as he sought to leave the country.
His trial was the first prominent rape case to be broadcast live in a country where sexual violence is rampant.
The hearings attracted huge interest, and raised difficult questions about victims’ rights, impartiality and whether justice is best served by having television cameras in courtrooms.
Following Wednesday’s verdict, Mr Omotoso will be deported to Nigeria, South African media outlet News24 reported. (BBC)
Timothy Omotoso said he thanked God for the verdict
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the US tariffs will have “immense consequences”
New York City Mayor Eric Adams
Hungary withdraws from International Criminal Court during Netanyahu visit
Hungary is withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC), its government has announced.
A senior official in Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government confirmed this hours after Israel’s leader Benjamin Netanyahu, who is sought under an ICC arrest warrant, arrived in Hungary for a state visit.
Orban had invited Netanyahu as soon as the warrant was issued last November, saying the ruling would have “no effect” in his country.
In November, ICC judges said there were “reasonable grounds” that Netanyahu bore “criminal responsibility” for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the war between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu has condemned the ICC’s decision as “antisemitic”.
The ICC, a global court, has the authority to prosecute those accused of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes.
Hungary is a founding member of the ICC, which counts 125 member states, and will be the first European Union nation to pull out of it. A withdrawal has no impact on ongoing proceedings.
During a joint press conference, Orban asserted that the ICC had become a “political court”. He added the court’s decision to issue a warrant against the Israeli leader “clearly showed” this.
Netanyahu meanwhile hailed Hungary’s “bold and principled” decision to withdraw from the court.
“It’s important for all democracies. It’s important to stand up to this corrupt organisation,” Netanyahu said.
Earlier Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar thanked Orban on X for his “clear and strong moral stance alongside Israel”.
“The so-called International Criminal Court lost its moral authority after trampling the fundamental principles of international law in its zest for harming Israel’s right to self-
defence,” Sa’ar added.
Hungary’s decision aligns with its broader foreign policy stance under Orban, who has cultivated close ties with Israel and adopted a critical view of international institutions perceived as infringing on national sovereignty.
While Hungary’s withdrawal may carry symbolic weight and political implications, it does not significantly alter the ICC’s operational capacity or legal framework.
The court has faced similar challenges in the past and continues to function with broad international support.
But Hungary’s criticism of the ICC as “politically biased” and its decision to withdraw as Netanyahu visits may set a precedent for other nations to question or abandon their commitments to international justice based on political alliances or disagreements with specific rulings.
The US, Russia, China and North Korea are among the nations that are not part of the ICC, and therefore do not recognise its jurisdiction.
Israel is also not part of the treaty, but the ICC ruled in 2021 that it did have jurisdiction over the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza, because the UN’s Secretary General had accepted that Palestinians were a member.
Hungary now needs to send written notification to the UN Secretary General to leave the treaty, with the withdrawal taking effect one year later, according to article 127 of the Rome Statute, which established the ICC.
ICC spokesman Fadi ElAbdullah told the BBC: “On the visit of Mr Netanyahu, the court has followed its standard procedures, after the issuance of an arrest warrant. The court recalls that Hungary remains under a duty to cooperate with the ICC.”
Since the warrant was issued,
Hungarian authorities should technically arrest Netanyahu and hand him over to the court in the Hague, although member states do not always choose to enforce ICC warrants.
In Europe, some ICC member states said they would arrest the Israeli leader if he set foot in their country, while others, including Germany, announced that Netanyahu would not be detained if he visited.
But Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Thursday Hungary’s announcement was “a bad day for international criminal law”.
“Europe has clear rules that apply to all EU member states, and that is the Rome Statute. I have made it clear time and again that no one in Europe is above the law and that applies to all areas of law,” she added.
On the other side of the Atlantic, the US has condemned the ICC’s decision to issue warrants for Netanyahu’s arrest and he has visited the country since it was issued in November. His visit to Hungary marks Netanyahu’s first trip to Europe since then.
Hungarian Defence Minister Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky, greeted Netanyahu on the tarmac of Budapest airport on Wednesday night, welcoming him to the country. (BBC)
UK draws up list of US products it could hit with tariffs
The UK government is drawing up a list of US products it could hit with retaliatory tariffs after President Donald Trump announced a wave of new import taxes.
This is a toughening of the government’s stance as ministers seek to finalise a trade deal with the US.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds says he is consulting UK firms about the likely impact of the 10% tariffs being imposed on nearly all UK exports to the US and which products should be on the list.
If UK negotiators can not agree a deal to reduce the 10% tariff by 1 May, the business secretary told MPs the government could impose retaliatory tariffs on US imports.
The government has published a sample list of goods that could face future UK tariffs.
Being on the 417-page list does not necessarily mean a product will face tariffs, the government said.
The list covers 27% of imports from the US - chosen because they would have a “more limited impact” on the UK economy, the Department for Business and
Trade said.
The products range from pure bred horses and children’s clothes to crude oil, firearms and bourbon whiskey.
Reynolds says talks are ongoing with the US government to secure an economic deal aimed at avoiding or reducing tariffs.
But he warned that the UK “reserves the right to take any action we deem necessary if a deal is not secured”.
In the event of reaching a deal with the US, the consultation with businesses would be paused, he added.
Speaking in the House of Commons, he said the fact the US had put lower tariffs on the UK compared to other countries “vindicated the pragmatic approach the government has taken”.
However, he said he was “disappointed” by the increase.
Conservative shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith argued “the government got no special favours” - noting the UK was facing the same tariffs as the Congo and the Christmas Islands.
The EU was being hit by 20%
tariffs and the UK’s lower rate of 10% was actually a vindication of those who “were pilloried and abused” for backing Brexit, Griffith argued.
The UK exported almost £60bn worth of goods to the US last year, mainly machinery, cars and pharmaceuticals.
In addition to the 10% tariffs, a 25% tariff has been put on UK
car exports, as well as steel and aluminium products.
Some products are exempt from the charges announced on Wednesday, according to White House documents - including the UK’s pharmaceutical sector, along with semiconductors, copper and some lumber items.
The government’s official forecaster estimates a worst-case
scenario trade war could reduce UK economic growth by 1% and wipe out the £9.9bn of economic headroom Chancellor Rachel Reeves gave herself at last week’s Spring Statement. It could mean that in order to meet her own fiscal rules, she would have to raise taxes or make cuts to government spending. (BBC)
The move was announced hours after Israel’s leader Benjamin Netanyahu, who is sought under an ICC arrest warrant, arrived in Hungary for a state visit
Bourbon whiskey is among the US products that could face import taxes
CARPENTER
LABOURER
InterHealth Canada Construction & Services is currently recruiting for Key positions within TCI Hospitals. Successful candidates will be offered excellent packages depending on qualifications and experience.
1. HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk)
This candidate will oversee the Domestic, Portering, and Laundry Services within the organization’s facilities. Candidates applying for this position are required to possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in a managerial capacity with a bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Hospitality.
The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of overseeing and directing a diverse team comprising a minimum of 30 staff members. Their primary responsibilities will encompass various facets of managing the team, including recruitment, training, and the overall coordination of team schedules, alongside handling stock management, daily operational tasks, waste management ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints, and upholding quality standards and compliance with relevant regulations.
For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact zhamilton@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941-2800 Ext 71803.
Salary: $45-$50K (Plus benefits).
2. HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk)
The Housekeeping Supervisor will oversee the Domestic, Portering, and Laundry Services within the organization’s facilities, working under the direct guidance of the housekeeping manager. It is essential that candidates interested in this role have a minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience in Hospitality or an equivalent field, alongside an associated degree.
The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of supervising and directing a diverse team comprising a minimum of 30 staff members. This candidate will be responsible for numerous tasks including, but not limited to, conducting weekly and monthly departmental
quality audits, managing stock levels and ordering, ensuring all cleaning duties associated with the department are maintained, providing training and development opportunities for staff within their purview to ensure compliance, safety, and excellent customer care, as well as collaborating closely with management and IPC to uphold best practices and excellence in infection control.
For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact zhamilton@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941-2800 Ext 71803.
Salary: $35k + (dependent on experience)
3. CORPORATE ACCOUNTANT
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk)
The corporate accountant will be responsible for decision making within the Finance Department and other departments as may be assigned. Must demonstrate current knowledge if finance through ongoing professional development, maintain a strong analytical and problem-solving capability and produce a timely and insightful analyses of financial performance. It is essential that candidates
interested in this role have a minimum of 5 to 7 years’ experience be Certified Public Accountants or have similar accounting designation and QuickBooks Experience is mandatory.
The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of supervising and directing a diverse team. This candidate will be responsible for numerous tasks including, but not limited to, preparing monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements and reports for stakeholders using QuickBooks, Establish and maintain cash controls, assisting in the development of overall financial goals and policies of the Hospital, including operating and capital budget expenditures, managing payroll system and reconciling general ledger using QuickBooks.
For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact fmhr@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941- 2800 Ext 71803.
Salary: $50k (Plus Benefits)
TRAINING OFFICER
Build annual training program and prepare teaching plans; identify training needs through evaluations; groom employees for career development. The successful candidate must have: Proven experience in designing multiple training events in a corporate or classroom setting – minimum 5 years; Bachelor’s Degree Business Administration or equivalent. Wage: $1,8002,300/m
CASHIER/ CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE
Cross-sell company products and services; assist Sales Team in promoting products and services; Interpret and translate for efficient service delivery; record transactions for money transfer; prepare / maintain multiple reports. Skills/Qualifications: Proven certifications and experience for the role. Wage $1,500 - $1,800.00/m
PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATION LETTER AND RESUME TO: THE CEO, NATIONAL COMPANY SERVICES, PROVIDENCIALES, TCI. EMAIL: HR@NCSFSG.COM BY APRIL 15, 2025. MUST BE AVAILABLE TO WORK ROTATED SHIFTS INCLUDING WEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AT ALL NCS BRANCHES ISLAND WIDE BETWEEN 7:00 AM & 7:00 PM. THE POSITIONS ARE CURRENTLY HELD BY OR BEING ADVERTISED FOR A WORK PERMIT HOLDER.
GAMING MACHINE TECHNICIAN
JOB SUMMARY:
Responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of various gaming and electronic equipment, ensuring optimal operations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Rebuild, repair, modify and install gaming devices of all types and associated equipment
• Install, remove, set options, repair and troubleshoot online management systems, cash dispensing safes, progressive systems and signs
• Run and terminate CAT 5 and 6, fiber, coaxes and installs patch panels
• Maintains safe working equipment and maintain tidy areas.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable gaming laws and company internal controls, policies and procedure
• Responsible for the execution and recording of preventive maintenance programs as instructed by the slot tech manager
• Complete all paperwork accurately and submit any performed task at end of day.
• Woodworking, laminating, painting, and cleaning, polishing, loading and unloading equipment.
• Provide outstanding guest service in a timely manner to both guests and fellow team members that meets the company’s guest service culture standards
• Maintains all information confidentially.
REQUIREMENTS
• Applicants must have some knowledge in the gaming field, machine trouble shooting testing and repair.
• Must show excellent customer service skills and show the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with customers, subordinates, and management and gaming regulatory organizations.
• Electronics qualifications are a must.
• 3 years minimum experience in a similar role.
• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs and speak, read and write fluent English
• Must be computer literate in Excel, word and outlook.
Peter’s Retiring & The Mansions is Hiring!
After 18 years as the Manager of The Mansions on Grace Bay, Peter Stingl has earned his retirement. He has been a rock for our owners who enjoy one of the few residential resorts on Grace Bay. He has managed our condos and staff superbly and we wish him the best as he moves on to his next adventures.
Now, we need a new Manager. This is a perfect opportunity for someone to work 5 hours per day, Monday to Saturday. We need a Manager who is conscientious about the needs of our owners and our property, and who is attentive to the needs of our buildings, grounds, and landscaping. No rental program or restaurant on premises.
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:
• Oversee day-to-day management of entire Mansions residential development, including implementation of all processes set by the Strata guidelines.
• Review monthly expenses, pay all utilities & vendors, prepare executive reports for Strata Board, prepare monthly statements for all condo unit owners.
• Ensure costs are controlled and OS&E are effectively sourced and delivered.
• Conduct routine daily and once-per-week nightly walkthroughs of the property to cover lighting, safety, timers and MEP. Conduct individual unit inspections as requested by Owners.
KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:
• Keen understanding of Owner Relations, exceptional verbal, written and strategic planning skills, along with strong organizational and problem solving skills.
• At least 3 years’ experience in a managerial role in Property Management with in-depth knowledge of utilities, landscaping, general maintenance, pest control and related physical plant needs.
• Sound knowledge of QuickBooks and Microsoft Office, with a focus on Excel and Word.
• Ability to effectively direct staff productivity, safeguard assets, and repair and maintain the facility and grounds.
• Financial management skills e.g.: ability to analyze P&L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting, and capital expenditure planning.
• Ability to take constructive action without relying on directions from others.
• Must be available weekdays and Saturdays, 5 hours per day.
Starting Salary $52,000-$58,000 per annum, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
HOUSEKEEPER
CONSTRUCTION HELPER
CLEANER
MECHANIC
DOMESTIC
Academy apologises for not naming ‘No Other Land’ co-director Ballal in response to attack
After mounting criticism following its initial response to the violent attack on Oscar-winning “No Other Land” co-director Hamdan Ballal, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences apologised Friday for not acknowledging Ballal by name.
In a letter to academy members, academy CEO Bill Kramer and its president, Janet Yang, said they regretted not issuing a direct statement on Ballal, the Associated Press reported. The director on Monday, witnesses said, was beaten by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and then detained by the Israeli military.
The attack, just weeks after Ballal and his fellow directors won best documentary at the Academy Awards, was widely condemned by numerous film organisations, among others. The Academy on Wednesday released a statement condemning “harming or
suppressing artists for their work or their viewpoints.”
Yuval Abraham, a journalist and co-director of “No Other Land,” was highly critical of that response, comparing it to “silence on Hamdan’s assault.”
On Friday, more than 600 of the Academy’s 11,000 members issued an open letter saying the statement “fell far short of the sentiments this moment calls for.” Among the signatories were Joaquin Phoenix, Olivia Colman, Riz Ahmed, Emma Thompson, Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz and “The Zone of Interest” filmmaker Jonathan Glazer.
After a meeting Friday by the Academy’s board of governors, Kramer and Yang responded with a new statement.
“We sincerely apologize to Mr Ballal and all artists who felt unsupported by our previous statement and want to make it
clear that the Academy condemns violence of this kind anywhere in the world,” they wrote to members. “We abhor the suppression of free speech under any circumstances.”
After being detained for more than 20 hours, Ballal was released by Israeli soldiers. Ballal and two other Palestinians were accused of throwing stones at a settler, allegations they deny. After being released, Ballal told The Associated Press a settler kicked his head “like a football” during an
Hollywood remembers ‘wonderful’
Directors including Ron Howard, Francis Ford Coppola and Michael Mann have paid tribute to actor Val Kilmer, following his death aged 65.
Kilmer starred in some of the biggest movies of the 1980s and 90s, including Top Gun and Batman Forever.
Coppola described Kilmer as “a wonderful person to work with and a joy to know”, while Howard praised his “awesome range as an actor”.
Singer Cher, a former girlfriend of Kilmer’s, summed him up as “funny, crazy, pain in the ass, GREAT FRIEND” and “brave” during his illness.
Kilmer died of pneumonia on Tuesday in Los Angeles, his daughter Mercedes told US media. She said her father had been diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 but later recovered.
Tracheotomy surgery affected his voice and curtailed his acting career, but he returned to the screen to reprise his role as fighter pilot Iceman alongside Tom Cruise in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick.
Kilmer’s other film credits included 1991’s The Doorsplaying the legendary band’s frontman Jim Morrison - plus the Western Tombstone and crime drama Heat.
Paying tribute on Instagram, Heat director Mann said: “While working with Val I always marvelled at the range, the brilliant variability within the powerful current of Val’s possessing and expressing character.
Val Kilmer acted in over 100 films and tv projects
“After so many years of Val battling disease and maintaining his spirit, this is tremendously sad news,” he said.
Coppola, who directed Kilmer in 2011’s Twixt, said in a statement: “Val Kilmer was the most talented actor when in his High School, and that talent only grew greater throughout his life.
“He was a wonderful person to work with and a joy to know - I will always remember him.”
Howard, who made 1988’s Willow, remembered Kilmer’s “amazing” filmography and praised his “awesome range as an actor”.
“His art extended to his poetry, artworks, filmmaking and simply the way he lived,” he wrote. “Bon Voyage, Val and thank you.”
‘SMART, CHALLENGING, BRAVE’
“See ya, pal. I’m going to miss you,” US actor Josh Brolin wrote alongside a picture of himself and Kilmer on Instagram.
“You were a smart, challenging,
brave, uber-creative firecracker. There’s not a lot left of those”, he added.
British actor David Thewlis, who worked with Kilmer on 1996’s ill-fated The Island of Dr Moreau, posted: “He was one of the most extraordinary people I have ever met. Proud to have called him a friend and co-conspirator.”
Fellow Brit Will Kemp, who appeared in 2004 film Mindhunters with Kilmer, wrote: “So many great memories of working with him. He was fun, unpredictable, generous and overall very kind to me when I was very new to the job.”
Actor Josh Gad posted: “RIP Val Kilmer. Thank you for defining so many of the movies of my childhood. You truly were an icon.”
James Woods wrote: “His rendition of Doc Holliday in Tombstone was what every actor dreams of achieving. So many wonderful performances. Sad to lose him so soon.”
Born Val Edward Kilmer on 31 December 1959, Kilmer grew up
attack on his village.
“I realized they were attacking me specifically,” Ballal said at a West Bank hospital after his release Tuesday. “When they say ‘Oscar,’ you understand. When they say your name, you understand.”
“No Other Land,” a joint Israeli-Palestinian production, chronicles the situation in Masafer Yatta, which the Israeli military designated as a live-fire training zone in the 1980s and ordered the expulsion of the residents, mostly Arab Bedouin. Around 1,000 residents have largely remained in place, but soldiers regularly come in to demolish homes, tents, water tanks and olive orchards.
After not finding a US distributor despite wide acclaim, “No Other Land” was self-released in theaters. It still managed to surpass $2 million in North American theaters before going on to win an Oscar. (CNN)
actor Val Kilmer
in a middle-class family in Los Angeles.
His parents were Christian Scientists, a movement to which Kilmer would adhere for the rest of his life.
Aged 17, he became the thenyoungest pupil to enrol at the Julliard School, in New York, one of the world’s most prestigious drama conservatories.
He made his name in the comedies Top Secret! in 1984 and Real Genius the following year, before cementing his acting credentials as Iceman, the nemesis to Cruise’s character Maverick in 1986’s Top Gun, one of the decade’s defining movies.
Kilmer went on to star in fantasy Willow and crime thriller Kill Me Again - both alongside British actress Joanne Whalley, who he married in 1988. The couple had two children.
He further proved his dynamic and versatile talents when he convincingly portrayed rock frontman Morrison in The Doors, 20 years after the singer’s death.
Tombstone, in which Kilmer played gunfighter Doc Holliday, and Heat, in which he appeared alongside Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, were also hits.
He took over Batman’s cape from Michael Keaton for Batman Forever in 1995, which achieved box office success but mixed reviews, and Kilmer pulled out of the next Batman movie.
In 1997, he appeared in The Saint as the master criminal and master of disguise - based on
Leslie Charteris’ books, which had also inspired the 1960s TV show starring Roger Moore.
Kilmer voiced both God and Moses in animated film The Prince of Egypt, and starred as Marlon Brando’s crazed sidekick in The Island of Dr Moreau - but that film became one of Hollywood’s most notorious flops.
Its director John Frankenheimer declared he would never work again with Kilmer, who had gained a reputation for being difficult on set.
He said that reputation was because “I care very much about telling the story well”.
He played a gay private detective who teamed up with Robert Downey Jr’s petty thief in 2005’s Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.
In 2021, Kilmer released a documentary chronicling the highs and lows of his life and career. Val, which debuted at the Cannes Film Festival, features 40 years of home recordings, including him speaking with a voice box postcancer surgery.
He had continued acting, but his comeback with a cameo appearance as Iceman in the longawaited Top Gun sequel was particularly poignant.
Cruise said at the time: “I’ve known Val for decades, and for him to come back and play that character... he’s such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again.”
Kilmer was also an artist, often creating paintings inspired by his film roles. (BBC)
Palestinian Hamdan Ballal, one of the directors of the Oscarwinning documentary “No Other Land”, was wounded in an Israeli attack then detained by the Israeli army
TCIAA awards contract for the ‘Ben
A. Johnson’ Fire Hall for Grand Turk
The new Fire Hall at the JAGS McCartney International Airport in Grand Turk is underway. Awarded to Olympic Construction, the project is set for completion by 2026.
Upon completion, the facility will stand as a tribute to Mr. Ben Johnson’s trailblazing contributions to aviation safety and fire services in the Turks and
Caicos Islands. Mr Johnson was the first certified Chief Fire Officer in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“The Johnson family is elated that we are honouring his legacy - ensuring that his impact on public safety is remembered for generations to come,” the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority said in a brief update this week.
Benjamin A. Johnson’s career is an example of resilience and leadership, the TCIAA shared this past February in a Black History Month post.
“Starting as a messenger in 1957, Mr Johnson steadily advanced through roles in maritime and airport security before joining civil aviation in 1980. This pivotal shift
set him on a ground-breaking path in fire safety and emergency services. Johnson trained extensively across the Caribbean and the UK, earning his place as a leader in airport fire and rescue. He went on to serve as Chief Fire Officer until 1998, shaping the future of emergency response in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” TCIAA shared.
In recognition of his legacy, TCIAA has dedicated the new fire and rescue hall at Grand Turk airport in his honour. The ‘Benjamin A. Johnson Fire and Rescue Services Building’ ensures that his impact on public safety, aviation, and fire services will be remembered for generations to come, the authority noted.
Fulford elected head of Bar Council
Mark Fulford, Managing Partner at F Chambers Attorneys, has been elected President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Bar Council during its recent annual general meeting.
Fulford is part of a new leadership team on the Bar Council, which aims to advance the legal profession in the territory through enhanced collaboration with the Judiciary.
Commenting on the election of the new team, President Fulford said: “It is with deep humility that I accept the confidence placed in me by the members of the Bar. I am committed to building upon the strong legacy of those who have served before me, and I extend my sincere gratitude to the outgoing Council for their dedicated service. In particular, I thank Desiree Downes, whose voice of reason and years of drafting the laws of the TCI at the AG Chambers have been a cornerstone of our legal community.”
Fulford stated that the Council will closely collaborate with its members to enhance engagement and will also work alongside the Hon. Attorney General, Ms.
Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, on the crucial legislative works her office continues to produce.
“We are committed to working closely with the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Mabel Agyemang, and ensuring that the Bar keeps pace with her legacy-building reforms.
“We will conduct our dealings with transparency, where allowed, and to foster a new wave of recruitment, inspiring the next
generation of Islanders to join the legal profession,” the new Bar Council President promised. Fulford brings extensive experience in public law and community development to his new role, having served on two prior Councils as a member.
Arnelle Taylor-Hall was elected Vice President. She is the founding partner at Wessex Fairchild Attorneys and a part-time member
of the Turks and Caicos Islands Employment Tribunal. TaylorHall has extensive expertise as a commercial attorney.
Also joining the new Council is Kenisha Bacchus as a member. Her professional background includes significant roles within the financial services sector, given her current role as Managing Director of the Financial Services Commission. She contributes valuable insights
into regulatory compliance and legal frameworks.
Meanwhile, Shayone Handfield Gardiner joins as the Attorney General’s representative. As Principal Counsel for International Matters at the AG Chambers, Gardiner oversees legal affairs on international relations and agreements, bringing a wealth of experience in international law to the Council.
Completing the Council is Devon McLean, an attorney with Stanbrook Prudhoe. McLean’s practice focuses on litigation, employment law, and financial services, bringing a comprehensive legal perspective to the Council.
The five-member Bar Council will be responsible for upholding the independence and integrity of the legal profession in the TCI. It plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards of conduct, promoting continuing legal education, and supporting the development of a robust and ethical legal community.
The newly elected team brings diverse and experienced perspectives to the Council.
An artist’s rendering of the new fire hall set for the JGS McCartney International Airport in the nation’s capital (Source: TCIAA)
Mr Ben A. Johnson, TCI’s first Chief Fire Officer
Newly sworn in President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Bar Council, Mark Fulford (third from right)
Can addiction to TV and mobile cause autism in kids?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour. Here we discuss how increasing screen time impacts children’s brain health and ways to implement healthy screen habits.
How screens affect brain development?
The early years of a child’s life are highly crucial for brain development. Interacting with parents, playing with toys, and navigating the environment all play a part in developing cognitive, social, and language abilities. Dr Mohini, Pediatric physiotherapist at Artemis Lite NFC, New Delhi says when kids spend too much time watching TV or mobile screens, they miss essential realworld interactions. This can slow down the brain’s ability to process emotions and language, and they end up with signs that are similar to autism.
She further explains. “Virtual autism is a disorder that occurs due to excessive use of the screen by children, causing developmental delays. Although it is different from ASD, its symptoms are delayed speech, poor social skills, no eye
contact, short attention span, and inability to express emotions.”
PREVENTION AND HEALTHY SCREEN HABITS
Even though screens are an unavoidable part of today’s life, parents can do their bit to make sure their child’s brain growth is not negatively impacted. Here is a list of preventive measures and habits to implement:
1. Restrict screen time: Follow the advice of health experts—no screens for children younger
MoH issues caution regarding skin bleaching creams with hazardous ingredients
The Ministry of Health has cautioned against the sale, purchase and use of skin lightening and skin treatment products found to contain prescription ingredients due to serious health risks.
The warning follows an advisory from Health Canada late last month, updating its list of bleaching creams found to contain unauthorised ingredients.
The health ministry is calling on all local suppliers and the general public to discontinue the sale and/ or use of certain unauthorised health products promoted for skin lightening and/or for treating skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. The public health advisory warns of serious health risks associated with the use of these
products. A full list of the items can be found at https://recalls-rappels. canada.ca/.../unauthorized-skin...
The products in question are labelled to contain or have been tested by Health Canada and found to contain dangerous ingredients.
The flagged products are found to contain active ingredients not listed on product labels (such as prescription drugs that have possibly exceeded the maximum recommended doses), and dangerous ingredients single or a combined - particularly drugs that should be available only by prescription, or a combination of ingredients that are not permitted because of serious health risks.
Crucially, the public is reminded that prescription drugs should only
than 18 months and only one hour of screen time for children between the ages of 2 and 5 years.
2. Encourage real-life interaction: Engage in conversations with your child, play with them, and spend time in activities like storytelling, outdoor games, and puzzles.
3. Employ screens wisely: Choose good quality, educational content, and watch it with your child to ensure it becomes interactive.
4. Create a screen-free habit: Enjoy screen-free meals, bedtime, and playtime in a bid to encourage normal learning.
In essence, mobile and TV addiction do not cause autism, but excessive screen time can slow down brain development.
Virtual autism can be reversed through reducing screen time and encouraging person-toperson interaction, healthy brain development through balanced
use of technology, and supervision from parents.
CONCLUSION
Excessive screen time, particularly in early childhood, has raised concerns about its effects on brain development. Even though screens are an unavoidable part of today’s life, parents can do their bit to make sure their child’s brain growth is not negatively impacted.
be taken under the supervision of a registered and licenced healthcare prescriber.
The ministry cautions residents who have unknowingly used these products that it may increase the chance of dangerous allergies and
interactions with other medications and foods. Some of the products were found to have ingredients such as aminocaproic acid, corticosteroids (betamethasone dipropionate, betamethasone valerate, clobetasol propionate, dexamethasone, fluocinonide and prednisolone valerate acetate), erythromycin, hydroquinone, ibuprofen piconol 3%, ketoconazole, neomycin sulphate, penicillin potassium, terbinafine hydrochloride and tretinoin.
Some of the brands of skin lightening creams found in Turks and Caicos Islands
CONTACT:
HELPER
DUTIES: Assist in the repair of heavy
vehicles and equipment. Diagnostic test, analysis and inventory. REQUIEMENTS: Must have Commercial Drivers License and at least 10 years relevant work experience.
PERSONAL CAREGIVER
STORE CLERK
(1) Conduct sales in a courteous and appropriate manner.
(2) When shopping is complete they must: total bill accept payment and provide appropriate change and receipt.
(3) Must log all sales SALARY: $8.00 per hour
• Ensuring the accuracy of figures like revenue and expenses
• Tracking inventory and tax obligations.
• Making recommendations to maximize profit.
• Prepared and maintained financial statements, reports, and summaries to support informed decision-making.
•
•
LAB TECHNICIAN
• Follow SOPs to ensure accurate and consistent testing and analysis.
• Perform packaging QA checks, such as luminometry, TPO/CO2/O2, fill weights, and seam inspections.
• Report of non-conformities to appropriate personnel in a timely matter
• Test CO2 tanks prior to production process
• Conduct sensory analysis of finished
• Participate in GMP quality audits and troubleshoot quality issues.
• Maintain accurate records of tests, batch data, and production results.
• Ensure a clean, safe, and organized lab environment while adhering to safety protocols.
• Work with other managers as necessary
• Maintain a safe work environment for all employees.
Salary $45,000
or commensurate with experience
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER
•
DOMESTIC WORKER
DOMESTIC WORKER
Run lines for power tools, lay out tools, set up forms for the pouring of concrete foundations, remove all debris, pack up tools, and take down bracing and scaffolding.
LABOURER
LABOURER
CLEANER
QUALIFIED
Applicant must be fully qualified RIBA part 3 or equal with a minimum of 10 years post-qualification experience; with the ability to travel freely throughout the Caribbean and South America
• Suitable candidate must be able to work under their own initiative and has the ability to see projects from concept to completion.
COOK TRUCK DRIVER
• Research literature and maintain knowledge of current building materials, structural, mechanical and electrical system codes and methods of application.
• Review subcontractor’s shop drawings to ensure compliance with specifications and contract agreements by checking them for technical accuracy according to accepted guidelines.
• Work with customers and clients to gather facts, define design and space planning problems, conceptualise possible solutions and secure approvals of proposals.
• Review product literature, analyse materials and determine appropriateness for application to projects.
• Provide advice and develop design documents to initiate and modify architectural, interior design and space planning solutions.
• Perform drafting of preliminary concept drawings to architectural working drawings and coordination with structural and mechanical information for new construction or refurbishment projects.
• Have advanced BricsCAD and SketchUp skills and intermediate Revit skills. Also, proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and Adobe Photoshop.
• Have postgraduate Project Management qualification and experience in Contract Administration and Site Inspection procedures.
• Excellent written and spoken English and Spanish essential.
ISLAND FIRE SUPPLIES LTD.
Saltmills Plaza, Providenciales. Is seeking to employ
FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATIONS
• Must have at least 10 years experience in the installation, maintenance and repairs of Fire Alarm Systems, Suppression Systems and Fire Sprinklers.
• Must have a qualification in Fire Extinguisher maintenance and service.
• Knowledge of Gamewell FCI, Simplex and Fire Lite systems is a must.
Salary: $12.00
Must be willing to work weekends and public holidays.
CONTACT: IFS@TCIWAY.TC OR CALL 331 0732.
Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping,
CLEANER DOMESTIC WORKER
Cleaning
IP/VAS ENGINEER
LOCATION: DIGICEL
MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Responsible for the design, installation, and support of all Packet Core and IP-based systems to support the technical operations of the business.
• Design IP Numbering and addressing schemes, Development, Configuration, and Implementation of IP-based systems
• Management and maintenance of all Packet Core systems which include, Ericsson SGSN- MME, EPG, and Ericsson Mobile Packet Backbone Network (MPBN) for LTE, WCDMA, DNS, and AAA.
• Responsible for all IP-based systems, which include Cisco network devices (Routers and Switches), SUN Solaris/Linux servers, Checkpoint, and Juniper Firewalls to ensure their high availability.
• Develop and schedule preventative and corrective maintenance policies and procedures, such as regular backups, and spare inventory, to ensure high availability of all VAS and IP-based systems.
• Ensure that Digicel TCI continues to operate on secure local and wide area networks with the implementation of VPN technologies and firewall policy management
• Ensure that network metrics are closely monitored (QoS and KPIs) and captured to provide proactive network management, as well as regular feedback on network performance in the form of reports to management
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THE JOB
• 5-7 years experience in VAS and IP-based network design, implementation, and administration
• CCNA, CCNP certification, and Solid hands-on experience with Cisco devices
• In-depth knowledge of switching, routing, technologies, DNS, Mobile data LTE, WCDMA, GSM
• In-depth knowledge of Ericsson Charging System, CCN, SDP, and AIR.
• In-depth knowledge and experience with UNIX and/or Linux systems.
• Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Computer Sciences. DEADLINE: DEADLINE:
The Position is open to all qualified Turks and Caicos nationals. Interested applicants can forward their resumes to https://careers. digicelgroup.com The closing date for applications is March 7th 2025.
The salary range for this position is between 65,000-70,000.
CONTACT:
OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION
Ascendancy TCI Ltd. As Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by Public Auction, to be held at the office of STANBROOK PRUDHOE, Third Floor Graceway House, Graceway Plaza, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands at 10:00am on Thursday April 24th 2025.
Location TITLE: BLOCK 10409, PARCEL 96, EAST SUBURBS GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS.
Comprises of House
•Three (3) bedroom, one (1) bathroom
Description
•The subject property sits on approximately 0.50 acres of land and comprises a single story, three bedroom/one bath residence. The property was extended a few years ago so that the existing front porch was enclosed and a laundry room added.
Title Absolute
Proprietor Vanessa Forbes
Approximate Area
House-The approximate gross floor area of this Building is 1,201 sq. ft.
Approximate Area: 0.50 Acres
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST FROM ASCENDANCY TCI LTD Third Floor Graceway House Graceway Plaza, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands 1-844-577-8742 Extension 5100 or 1-649-946-4300
ACTIVITIES AND FITNESS COORDINATOR
•
•
maintaining an organized
• A bachelor’s degree in health and physical activity and experience in the
VARIOUS
Andrew
$8.00
BABYSITTER
$8.00 hourly care for child etc.
Adeline E. Brown (242-3858)
Wheeland, Providenciales DOMESTIC WORKER
$8.00 hourly general house chores etc.
RENEWALS/FIRST
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION
Ascendancy TCI Ltd. As Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by Public Auction, to be held at the office of STANBROOK PRUDHOE, Third Floor Graceway House, Graceway Plaza, Providenciales ,Turks and Caicos Islands at 10:00am on Thursday April 24th 2025.
Location TITLE: BLOCK 10401, PARCEL 382, BREEZY BRAE GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS.
Comprises of House
-Three (3) bedroom, two(2) bathroom
Description
-The subject parcel has been developed with a mediumsized single story residence comprising a living room, dining room, kitchen, master bedroom and ensuite and two further bedrooms and a bathroom. Externally, there is a covered front porch and a partially fenced garden area. There is also an integral water cistern below the property.
Title Absolute
Proprietor Shirlene Smith
Approximate Area
House-The approximate gross floor area of this Building is 1,614 sq. ft.
Approximate Area: 0.34 Acres
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST FROM
ASCENDANCY TCI LTD
Third Floor Graceway House Graceway Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands 1-844-577-8742 Extension 5100 or 1-649-946-4300
AIR CONDITION TECHNICIAN
Skills and qualifications:
• With 5 years experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing commercial refrigeration systems is required.
• Strong understanding of refrigeration principles and components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and controls.
• Ability to identify and resolve issues related to refrigeration systems in a timely and efficient manner.
• Adherence to safety protocols and practices to ensure a secure work environment.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and provide exceptional customer service.
• For the first time work Permit Holder: Wages start at $770.per week.
• This position is for work permit holder.
Job Description:
Primary responsibilities will include inspecting, repairing, and maintaining commercial refrigeration systems. This includes diagnosing issues, replacing defective components, and conducting regular preventative maintenance tasks. You will also be required to keep accurate records, order necessary parts, and collaborate with other technicians or contractors as needed. Overall, your expertise will ensure optimal functionality and performance of the company's refrigeration systems.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• Must have a minimum of M.B.B.S., Medical Doctor Degree from an accredited University, Relevant training and/or certifications as an Ophthalmologist
• Minimum of 5 years work experience and specialize in the surgical and medical treatment of eye diseases and injuries
• Must have a minimum of 5 years as a fully registered Medical Practitioner on a register of a recognized Medical Board.
MAIN DUTIES
• Carry out patient consultations in the Clinic
• Diagnose, treat and prevent disorders of the eyes and visual system, using medical and surgical skills
• Providing comprehensive eye care, routine vision testing and prescribing glasses and contact lenses
• Performing corrective surgeries, such as repairing injuries and corneas and removing cataracts
• Manage acute and chronic illnesses
• Order laboratory and diagnostic tests
• Perform minor procedures
• Be proactive with patient health education
• Work with a multidisciplinary team, including other doctors and staff
• Expected to be part of practice management and administration
• Liaise with other healthcare professionals and/or hospitals
• Computer knowledge – experience using EMR files
• Bi-lingual will be an asset
BIG BLUE COLLECTIVE
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN
WATERSPORTS INDUSTRY #2 MARINA STREET, LEEWARD MARINA, PROVIDENCIALE
Big Blue Collective is looking for Turks and Caicos Islanders with outgoing personalities and suitable watersports skills to join a team of knowledgeable and experienced guides to conduct educational and environmentally conscious eco-tours, scuba diving, boat charters and kite instruction throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. The following positions are available:
1. BOAT CAPTAIN
Seeking a qualified boat captain with a minimum of 3-5 years of tourism experience, preferably on power and/or sailing catamarans. A valid captain’s license (e.g., USCG 100 Ton, RYA Powerboat or Coastal Skipper, and/or TCI Boat master certificate), a current STCW certification and First Aid/CPR certification are all required. Strong navigational skills, excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills are required as well as a passion for delivering outstanding customer service and creating memorable experiences. The ability to handle the physical demands of the job, including lifting, bending, and being on your feet for extended periods as well as working weekends and holidays is essential. Proficiency and familiarity with vessel maintenance is a plus. Knowledge of local waters, weather patterns, and points of interest is also highly desirable. For safety preference will be given to boat captains with Dive Master or Scuba Instructor certification. Current positions held by work permit holders and new positions are available. Salary range: $200 to $250+ per day plus gratuities and monthly service charge. Applicants should apply to the email address below.
2. SCUBA DIVING INSTRUCTORS & DIVE MASTERS
Seeking qualified PADI Dive Instructors and Dive Masters to conduct dive courses and tours. Applicants must have a minimum 2 years of teaching and/or guiding 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 who 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 held by work permit holders and new positions available. Salary range: $110 to $200 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed monthly service charge. Applicants should
apply to the email address below.
3. ECO-TOUR GUIDES & MARINE BIOLOGISTS
Seeking enthusiastic individuals to join the Big Blue eco-tour team who have a passion for the ocean and a genuine interest in preserving the environment and marine education. Suitable candidates must be a strong swimmer and have some prior experience kayaking, standup paddleboarding and snorkeling. Additional training will be provided but applicants must be fluent in English and have the personality for high end customer service. Preference will be given to those with a degree or background in Marine Biology and Marine or Environmental Sciences as well as scuba diving qualifications and experience. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week. Applicant should be strong, energetic, and reliable.
Positions are currently held by belongers and work permit holders. Specifically seeking for belongers. Interested applicants should apply to the email address below. Salary range: $125$175 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed service charge.
4. KITCHEN HELPER
Looking for a suitable candidate to help prepare food for boat charters, clean coolers and clean office premises. Duties include cooking, baking, cleaning, food prep, inventory and food ordering. The work schedule varies and provides up 6- days work per week. The following are required of applicant:
• Fluent in English with good speaking and reading skills.
• Must be willing to start as early as 5am, work long days, weekends and public holidays.
• Have prior experience and certification in kitchen health and safety standards.
• Experience with cooking, baking and food display.
The position is currently held by a work permit holder. Turks Islanders are preferred. Salary ranges from $8-$12 or salary of $2000 - $3000 per month.
DOMESTIC WORKER HELPER / CLEANER HELPER
HORSE HANDLER & TOUR ASSISTANT
Observe any changes in behavior, illness, or injury in horses. Provide basic first aid and prescription medication. Make sure horses are properly cared for and exercised.
Salary: $2050 monthly
WATER SPORTS MANAGER
(But not limited to):
• Lead and assist in a variety of watersports Excursions, including certified diving, snorkelling, Private boat charters and SNUBA.
• Manage and supervise a team.
• Schedule and coordinate excursions, ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction.
• Maintain equipment and ensure safety standards Are met.
• Take, edit, and upload high-quality
•
•
•
• 5+ years of experience leading or assisting in watersports Excursions.
• Proficient communication skills in English (both written and Verbal.
• Proven ability to schedule and manage a team.
• Proficient photography skills including underwater photography
• Ability to lift 50lbs.
SALARY: US$2,500.00 Monthly
SPA THERAPIST
Minimum 8 years’ experience. Must be able to provide professional massage treatments to Hotel Guests and Homeowners. Swedish, Balinese, Deep Tissue, Reiki, Hot Stone, Sports, Body Wraps, Scrubs, Facials, Manicures/ Pedicures and Rejuvenation treatments. Salary $16,000 per annum.
MIXOLOGIST
Minimum of 5 years’ experience. Serve guests and homeowners a variety of beverages. Ensure the bar is run efficiently and maintain guest satisfaction. Keep up with industry trends and be able to create new and unique drink recipes. Vast knowledge of bar beverages, wines, alcohol pairing and taste. Salary $26,400 per annum.
MARINE LABOURER
Minimum 3 years’ experience. Responsible for keeping the club and homeowners’ boats clean and well maintained with scheduled maintenance and care. Assist boat passengers with loading and unloading luggage and freight. Keep the harbor master’s office clean. Assist with marine area and dock maintenance operations. Salary $10.00 per hour.
EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER
Minimum 5 years’ experience. Responsible for directing and controlling all housekeeping operations and the staff of the housekeeping department. Maintain the housekeeping area and ensure that all tasks are carried out to the company standard and to health and safety guidelines. Supervise staff and develop and implement policies. Maintain inventory and supplies. Salary $26, 400 per annum.
ACCOUNTS SUPERVISOR
Minimum 5 years’ experience. Review and monitor internal control procedures in the hotel, Review and analyze the company results throughout the hotel to ensure alignment with the company’s financial objectives. Assist with the compilation and preparation of the financial statements, periodic forecasts, and monthly/annual budgets. Salary $35,000 per annum
ROOM DIVISION MANAGER
Minimum of 5 years’ experience. Oversee the front office and housekeeping department ensuring efficient operation. Develop and maintain a comprehensive database of guest and homeowner preferences, habits and special dates for personalized experience. Salary $30,000 per annum.
ASSISTANT RESTAURANT MANAGER
Minimum of 5 years’ experience. Support the Food and Beverage Manager. Organize, direct, control and evaluate operations of the restaurant. Manage staff. Ensure guest satisfaction. Manage inventory. Optimize profits. Salary $28,800 per annum. Interested
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:
WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST
Candidates must have at least five (5) years’ experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.
FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR
This position requires someone with at least five (5) years’ experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.
COURT REPORTER
College or high school graduate with at least five (5) years’ experience in community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.
ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON
Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based.
JOIN OUR TEAM APPLY NOW
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
Facilities Manager (Cockburn Town Medical Centre, GDT)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelors Degree or Equivalent
• Experience in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
• Experience in Management of Soft Services within a HealthCare Setting
DUTIES:
• Supervising and Managing a diverse team.
• Managing all Facilities Services within TCI Hospital inclusive of:
• Engineering
• Grounds
• Catering
• Housekeeping
• Laundry
• Reception
• Security
• Contracted Services
Salary: $85K full package including benefits.
HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, PLS)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Minimum of 2 years within a Human Resource Role
• Associates/Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource or Business Administration
Duties:
• To Control and supervise Human Resource functions within TCI Hospitals
• To Ensure compliance with company policy relating to on- island and expat recruitment, Performance Management, Education, Grievance and Procedures.
• To Ensure Compliance with TCI Labour Ordinance about Employment Law.
• To Ensure Departmental Heads maintain due diligence records and comply with contractual and Key Performance indicators.
Salary: $35K to $45K dependent on experience.
SENIOR ACCOUNTANT
(Cockburn Town Medical Centre, GDT & Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, PLS)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in an Accounting Role
• Strong Organizational Skills
• Proficient in QuickBooks
• Bachelors Degree in Accounts or Finance.
DUTIES:
• Preparation of Reports
• Assisting with Financial Record- keeping
• Data Entry
• Bank Reconciliation
• Invoice Processing
• General administrative Tasks.
Salary: 40K
ENGINEERING
Engineering Manager (Cockburn Town Medical Centre, GDT & Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, PLS)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent.
• Qualifications in Mechanical and Electrical engineering.
• Experience in Project Management
• Comprehensive understanding and producing of SLA’s, KPI’s and Tender process.
• Hospital engineering environment experience.
DUTIES:
• Managing mechanical and electrical engineering teams and external contractors.
• Maintaining and implementing planned preventative maintenance, reactive maintenance and lifecycle programs
• Delivering high technical training sessions to a variety of management levels.
• Responsible for budgetary compliance, HR responsibilities and working to HTMs
• Oversee sub-contractors.
• Out of hours “On-Call” duties
• H&S and Fire & Disaster Management
ASSISTANT ENGINEERING MANAGER
(Cockburn Town Medical Centre, GDT & Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, PLS)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent.
• Qualifications in Mechanical and Electrical engineering
• Qualifications in Health & Safety (NEBOSH/ IOSH), Medical Gas and Safety
• Must be proficient in IT Software
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
DUTIES:
• Effectively running the daily operations of the Engineering department
• Supervising a diverse team of Grounds men, maintenance persons and handymen.
• Ensuring timely completion of work orders, PPM’s
• Reactive tasks and daily operational activity Salary: $65K full package including benefits.
MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEER
(Cockburn Town Medical Centre, GDT & Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, PLS)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelors degree of equivalent
• Qualifications in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
DUTIES:
• Prevented planned maintenance on all HVAC, VSD, pumps and motors, valves and strainers
• Reactive works on all plants
• Fault findings and correction.
• Fabric Maintenance of the building
• Handymen tasks if and when required.
Salary: $50K full package including benefits
SENIOR ENGINEER ADMINISTRATOR
(Cockburn Town Medical Centre, GDT & Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, PLS)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
• Minimum of 3years experience within similar engineering administrative role.
• Bachelors Degree Required
• Resource planning
• Preparation of Reports
• Financial control and quality requirements of an engineering department.
• Data Entry
• Administrative tasks
• Team Shift Scheduling
Salary: $45K
DUTIES:
• Procurement
Appointments will be made based on successful interview, positive reference check and a clear Police check. *Previous experience is required for all posts. For full Job Specification, Qualification Requirements, and Package Details, please contact Ms. Zonelle Hamilton for further information and queries on Tel: 941-2800 Ext 71803. Qualified Belongers will be given first consideration. Apply in writing together with an up to date curriculum vitae to: zhamilton@interhealthcanada.tc.
CHIEF ENGINEER
JOB SUMMARY
The Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the resort’s engineering, maintenance, and safety operations. This includes managing the maintenance of hotel rooms, public spaces, and back-of-house facilities, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and leading a team of skilled engineers and technicians to maintain the highest operational standards.
RESPONSIBILITIES
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of all hotel systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, elevators, and fire safety systems.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to minimize equipment failure and maximize efficiency.
• Conduct regular inspections of hotel premises to ensure compliance with safety standards and operational excellence.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of engineers, technicians, and maintenance staff.
• Assign tasks and responsibilities while ensuring effective communication and collaboration within the department.
• Implement energy-saving initiatives and sustainability programs to reduce the hotel's environmental footprint.
• Monitor utility consumption and develop strategies to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs.
• Develop and manage the engineering department's annual budget.
• Monitor expenses related to repairs, maintenance, and capital improvements, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure that all maintenance and engineering activities comply with local building codes, fire and safety regulations, and corporate standards.
• Conduct regular safety drills and training sessions for engineering and hotel staff.
• Ensure compliance with local environmental regulations and corporate sustainability goals.
• Plan and oversee major engineering projects, renovations, and equipment upgrades.
• Coordinate with architects, contractors, and project managers to ensure timely and successful project completion.
• Monitor construction and refurbishment projects to align with brand standards and budget constraints.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil preferred) or related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within luxury hotels or resorts.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety regulations.
• Experience with preventive maintenance programs and energy management systems.
• Familiarity with hotel management software and engineering reporting systems.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Knowledge of Turks and Caicos building codes and environmental regulations is a plus.
4 CARPENTERS
$14.00 per hour
Build walls and install partitions
2 CARPENTER
$9.00 per hour
Cut timber or lumber.
2 PLUMBERS
$14.00 per hour
Assemble pipe sections.
2 PLUMBER HELPER
$9.00 per hour
Assist Plumber.
2 LABOURERS - $8.00 per hour
Cleaning Jobsite.
2 MASONS - $10.00 hour
Repairs and maintains building, laying bricks
STEELMAN - $9.00 hourly
Fabricating structural steel.
STEEL HELPER - $9.00 hourly
Assist steel man.
CONSTRUCTION
LABOURER- $9.00 hourly
Mixing concrete.
PE/ICT TEACHER
You will be required to teach Computer Science and Physical Education across primary and middle school phases. Applicants must hold a Teaching Degree or similar teaching qualification. You must have five years’ experience working within a British National Curriculum School. Salary range is commensurate with experience, from $40,000 – $48,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week).
This position is currently held by a work permit holder.
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Your responsibilities will include supporting the classroom teacher in caring for, preparing for and teaching a class of Early Years or primary school age children. Applicants must have experience working in a primary school or in an Early Years environment and/or hold an Early Childhood Certificate. Salary range is commensurate with experience, posts of responsibility and qualifications, from $21,000 - $26,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week or prorata thereof).
This position is currently held by a work permit holder. PO Box 329, Graceway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Tel 649 333 5638 Email: info@provoprimary.com Website www.provoprimary.com
SEND A FULL RESUME, LETTER OF APPLICATION, CERTIFICATES AND POLICE CHECK,
MANAGER, BRANCH COMPLIANCE
PURPOSE
The incumbent is responsible for Branch Compliance, AML & Internal Control for the Caribbean North Countries, ensuring business strategies, plans and initiatives are executed / delivered in compliance with governing regulations, internal policies and procedures as well as Scotiabank’s Code of Conduct. The incumbent manages the internal review and monitoring program for Retail & Small Business, ensuring gaps identified have management action plans and are followed for closure, inclusive of the Audit remediation program for Retail Banking.
The incumbent supports business leaders with audits issues and the development of management action plans, coordinates activities and makes submissions for audit closure and to escalate concerns or issues to Senior Management with off-track items.
The incumbent leads the implementation of key Compliance, AML and Internal Control initiatives, liaising with Retail & Small Business leaders, including the completion of RCSAs, EMRA/ESRA, AML procedures and training, and responses to Quality Assurance Testing, and Compliance Testing.
RESPONSIBILITIES
• Leads and drives a customer focused culture to deepen client relationships and leverage broader Bank relationships, systems and knowledge.
• Ensures that trends and gaps are identified and implements corrective action to improve compliance in branches.
• Periodically conducts Branch visits and evaluates results of Branch and Compliance Reviews to ensure Compliance and Controls are in place and effective.
• Evaluates the operating effectiveness of internal controls for branches reviewed, by trending issues/ findings and other pertinent information that will assist with the early identification and reporting of possible systemic problems to Branch Management.
• Ensures risk and regulatory requirements are effectively maintained while supporting an excellent customer experience.
• Maximizes operational efficiency and risk management practices by supporting the completion of Compliance status and trending reports, Compliance and Internal Control Self Assessments, ensuring new processes are properly understood and implemented.
• Works with Country management to coordinate and execute proper management controls, tools
and escalation processes with the purpose of monitoring adherence to AML/KYC and Audit requirements and identifying emerging issues and trends.
• Pro-actively identifies potential violations of regulatory requirements, internal policies and procedures, in a timely manner and makes recommendations to mitigate business, compliance and operational risk.
• Coordinates and or conducts ad hoc control reviews as requested by the incumbent’s direct management to address specific issues in branches.
• Remaining current on all operational policies and procedures through controls of the Bank’s manuals / BIBs/ policies, as well as country specific processes that are directly related to the scope of control.
• Prepares and executes Action Plans for the Audit program and provides status updates to Country Senior Management, Regional Audit and 1B Operational Support.
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE / OTHER INFORMATION (INCLUDE ONLY THOSE SPECIFIC
TO EACH FUNCTION)
• University degree in Accounting, Finance, Business or Management with a minimum or 5 years of relevant experience, preferable in the branch operational environment.
• Effective leadership and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to influence and motivate others. Must set a positive example of change leadership and encourage others to do the same.
• Strong PC and verbal communication skills are essential.
• The incumbent must be mobile for travel to the branches in the region is essential to conduct reviews.
• Expert knowledge of regulatory compliance related to Privacy, Anti-Money Laundering/ Anti- Terrorist Financing, Know your Customer requirements, FCAC, CDIC and FATCA.
• Thorough knowledge of credit risk/adjudication policies and procedures to enable effective retail and small business compliance review
• Thorough knowledge of people and performance management techniques
• Working knowledge of Canadian code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services (Debit Card Code of Conduct).
• Working knowledge of financial products and services.
• Working knowledge of expense control and/or revenue generating techniques/requirements.
DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
JOB SUMMARY
The Director of Human Resources is responsible for overseeing the Human Resources functions for the hotel, working closely with the regional Hyatt Corporate team as well as the General Manager to create and sustain a positive, professional work environment.
The Director of HR will develop, implement, and administer HR related policies, programs, and practices, overseeing legal compliance, recruitment, benefits administration, employee and labor relations, and performance management. S/he must act as a role model to the hotel staff, possessing strong interpersonal and communication skills to create a strong work culture.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in related field.
• Legal authorization to work in TCI is required.
• Must speak English fluently. Additional languages are a plus.
• Prior experience working as a hospitality Human Resources professional in Turks and Caicos Islands
• Strong knowledge of local laws as it relates to employment, including but not limited to: benefits; legal, employee, and safety compliance; applicability of GDPR to both guest and personnel information.
• 7+ years of Human Resource experience, with a minimum of 3+ years Human Resources Management experience in the hospitality industry.
• Prior ‘Lifestyle hotel leadership experience is a plus.
• Experience in pre-opening/opening a hotel and creating HR systems and policies.
• Proficient in computer systems including all Microsoft Office applications; prior experience in HRIS systems and/or Payroll systems is a must.
• Ability to effectively and confidently conduct trainings/orientation/seminars, and present strategies, financials, and other presentations in both oral and written form.
• Ability to create effective employee recruitment and retention strategies.
• Excellent interpersonal skills. Able to establish and maintain positive and effective relationships with: Ownership; Corporate; hotel’s management, employees, clients, vendors; and the community.
• Ability to communicate effectively and calmly handle challenges in the workplace, proposing corrective solutions to challenging situations.
• Ability to work flexible schedules and be present as required by business demand levels.
• Develop and sustain a positive and collaborative work culture and environment.
• Strong recruitment and hiring skills; the ability to seek out, recognize, and engage talent who embody the hotel/company’s ethos, and will contribute to the success of the hotel operation.
• High emotional intelligence. Strong conflict resolution, training, and development skills.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize workloads.
AFFLUENT RELATIONSHIP MANAGER
JOB GRADE: 7.1
$61,100– $97,050
PURPOSE
Contributes to the overall success of the Branch / Distribution Management in the Country, ensuring that specific individual objectives, plans, and initiatives are carried out or met in support of the team’s business strategies and objectives. Ensures that all activities are conducted in compliance with current internal standards, policies, and procedures.
Interacts with the client both in-person and virtually, with interactions taking place in a physical branch but also communicating with clients in-person, remotely, virtually, or digitally. Availability, clarity, and assertiveness are crucial to strengthen the relationship with clients.
A highly skilled professional in providing personalized financial solutions to high-net-worth clients.
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE / OTHER INFORMATION (INCLUDE ONLY THOSE SPECIFIC TO EACH FUNCTION)
• Degree in Commercial Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience as an Executive for high-net-worth or highincome clients.
• Experience in managing and advising on investments, with knowledge certified by Simple Certification (Full Certification desirable).
• Strong relationship, leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Strong service orientation and portfolio results.
• Intermediate-advanced English language skills.
• High advisory skills to achieve sales and production targets.
• Priority will be given to those with ACIV G2 certification or equivalent and/ or commitment to obtain it within 6 months.
• Experience in managing and advising on investments.
• High capacity to analyze data, financial statements, and balances, and propose personalized business plans based on analysis.
• Methodical in following branch disciplines.
• Experience in developing client-specific business plans.
• Advanced knowledge of Excel and office tools.
• High advisory skills to achieve sales and production targets.
• High capacity to analyze data, financial statements, and balances, and propose personalized business plans based on analysis.
• Leadership and people management skills.
• Methodical in following branch disciplines.
• Experience in developing client-specific business plans.
• Experience in high-value client relationships.
• Desirable experience in company balances.
• Demonstrable experience in managing client portfolios.
• Sufficient knowledge of modern management techniques and best practices.
• Familiarity with all banking sector rules and regulations.
• Excellent relationship skills.
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Works in a standard commercial office environment and/or remote platform occasionally, with assigned client portfolio. The position requires mobility due to office and/or portfolio changes. Includes field visits and occasional travel.
InterHealth Canada Construction & Services is currently recruiting for Key positions within TCI Hospitals. Successful candidates will be offered excellent packages depending on qualifications and experience.
1. HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk)
This candidate will oversee the Domestic, Portering, and Laundry Services within the organization’s facilities. Candidates applying for this position are required to possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in a managerial capacity with a bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Hospitality.
The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of overseeing and directing a diverse team comprising a minimum of 30 staff members. Their primary responsibilities will encompass various facets of managing the team, including recruitment, training, and the overall coordination of team schedules, alongside handling stock management, daily operational tasks, waste management ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints, and upholding quality standards and compliance with relevant regulations.
For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact zhamilton@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941-2800 Ext 71803.
Salary: $45-$50K (Plus benefits).
2. HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk)
The Housekeeping Supervisor will oversee the Domestic, Portering, and Laundry Services within the organization’s facilities, working under the direct guidance of the housekeeping manager. It is essential that candidates interested in this role have a minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience in Hospitality or an equivalent field, alongside an associated degree.
The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of supervising and directing a diverse team comprising a minimum of 30 staff members. This candidate will be responsible for numerous tasks including, but not limited to, conducting weekly and monthly departmental
quality audits, managing stock levels and ordering, ensuring all cleaning duties associated with the department are maintained, providing training and development opportunities for staff within their purview to ensure compliance, safety, and excellent customer care, as well as collaborating closely with management and IPC to uphold best practices and excellence in infection control.
For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact zhamilton@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941-2800 Ext 71803.
Salary: $35k + (dependent on experience)
3. CORPORATE ACCOUNTANT
(Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Providenciales and Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk)
The corporate accountant will be responsible for decision making within the Finance Department and other departments as may be assigned. Must demonstrate current knowledge if finance through ongoing professional development, maintain a strong analytical and problem-solving capability and produce a timely and insightful analyses of financial performance. It is essential that candidates
interested in this role have a minimum of 5 to 7 years’ experience be Certified Public Accountants or have similar accounting designation and QuickBooks Experience is mandatory.
The potential candidate assigned to the role will have the crucial task of supervising and directing a diverse team. This candidate will be responsible for numerous tasks including, but not limited to, preparing monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements and reports for stakeholders using QuickBooks, Establish and maintain cash controls, assisting in the development of overall financial goals and policies of the Hospital, including operating and capital budget expenditures, managing payroll system and reconciling general ledger using QuickBooks.
For full Job Specifications and Package Details, please contact fmhr@interhealthcanada.tc or call 941- 2800 Ext 71803.
Salary: $50k (Plus Benefits)
• Performing a variety of
activities such as
• Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing
DIRECTOR OF
DEPARTMENT: FINANCE
JOB SUMMARY
The Director of Finance is responsible for overseeing all financial operations of the Andaz Turks and Caicos Resort. This includes managing accounting functions, developing financial strategies, preparing budgets, monitoring financial performance, and ensuring compliance with local regulations and Hyatt’s corporate policies. The Director of Finance works closely with the General Manager and other department heads to drive profitability, control costs, and support the overall financial health of the resort.
RESPONSIBILITIES
• Lead the development and implementation of the hotel’s annual budget, financial forecasts, and long-term strategic plans.
• Monitor the hotel’s financial performance and recommend corrective actions to ensure the achievement of financial goals.
• Provide detailed monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, highlighting variances and proposing solutions to address gaps
• Analyze financial results, including revenue, expenses, profits, and losses, to provide insights and recommendations to hotel leadership.
• Prepare and present comprehensive financial reports to the General Manager and corporate offices, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Conduct financial modeling, variance analysis, and profitability assessments for key areas of the hotel’s operations.
• Manage the hotel’s cash flow, ensuring sufficient liquidity to meet operational and capital needs.
• Oversee banking relationships, cash management, and investment strategies to optimize returns and minimize risks.
• Implement procedures for proper cash handling, credit policies, and accounts receivable/payable management.
• Ensure the hotel complies with local and international financial regulations, tax laws, and Hyatt corporate financial policies.
• Implement and maintain a robust system of internal controls to safeguard the hotel’s financial assets and prevent fraud or misappropriation.
• Coordinate audits and ensure timely responses to audit findings and recommendations.
• Analyze and control hotel expenses to ensure alignment with budgetary constraints and profitability goals.
• Identify opportunities to increase revenue, improve margins, and reduce costs without compromising service quality.
• Work closely with department heads to manage expenses related to food and beverage, labor, utilities, and capital projects.
• Manage the hotel’s capital expenditure (CapEx) planning, ensuring that investments in property, plant, and equipment are aligned with the hotel’s long-term strategy.
• Oversee the maintenance of financial records related to fixed assets, depreciation, and capital improvements.
• Monitor the return on investment (ROI) of key projects and make recommendations for future investments.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including banks, auditors, tax advisors, and government authorities, to ensure financial compliance and optimize financial operations.
• Communicate financial performance and business outlook to internal stakeholders, including the General Manager, ownership, and Hyatt corporate offices.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (Master’s degree or CPA preferred).
• Minimum of 7-10 years of financial management experience, preferably in the luxury hotel or hospitality industry.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Expertise in financial reporting, including P&L, balance sheet, cash flow, and variance analysis.
• Experience with hotel financial systems (Opera, Oracle, or similar systems) and HR management software.
• In-depth understanding of local tax laws, labor regulations, and hospitality industry standards.
• Proven ability to lead and develop highperforming finance teams.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to financial accuracy and integrity.
•
•
•
JOB SUMMARY
• Holds pre-shift meetings daily.
• Maintains patron satisfaction by monitoring, evaluating and auditing food service offerings;
• Maintains operations by managing policies and standard operating procedures; implementing production, productivity, quality, and patronservice standards; determining and implementing system improvements.
• Possesses strong leadership skills with the ability to support, motivate and direct cast Members/teams to achieve (Financial and Service experience).
• Monitor bartenders to ensure drinks are prepared properly using ingredients such as liquor, soda, water, and fruit Juice appropriately.
• Monitor bartenders and servers to ensure all beverages are rang properly.
• Interact verbally with all bar guests creating a friendly and upbeat atmosphere.
• Ensures the opening and closing work is fully completed.
• Make correct change and/or complete any necessary charge changes.
• Order necessary stock to ensure the bar has inventory needed.
• Responsible for ensuring proper checkout procedures for all staff.
• Ensure proper staffing and inventory levels are maintained.
• Demonstrate knowledge of department budgetary guidelines, variances and objectives during decision-making and daily operations in all areas of responsibility.
• Update the GM as to status of operations, suggestions, or departmental concerns in a timely fashion.
• Provide positive communication and customer service skills with every patron and co-worker.
• Perform Duties in a safe manner; report any potential safe hazards to management staff.
• Ability to issue F&B comps to qualifying customers in accordance with Elite Gaming’s Comp Policy.
• Performs other work as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
• At least 2 years’ experience in a similar role
• Excellent problem- solving skills and the ability to work well under pressure
• Must Show excellent customer service skills and show the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with customers.
• To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be capable pf realizing every essential task satisfactorily.
• Must have proven leadership and training skills.
• Business. Food service graduate or equivalent work experience.
• Front and Back of house experience along with bar experience required.
• Extensive food and beverage knowledge with the ability to recall ingredients and dishes to inform customer and wait staff.
• Ability to move freely (standing, stooping, walking, bending, pushing and pulling) and lift up to a maximum of fifty(50)lbs. without assistance.
• Must have 1 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Must speak, write and read fluent English
• Must be computer literate in Excel, word and Outlook.
• Must be mobile in all areas of the casino and have the ability to tolerate various levels of noise,
• Temperature and air quality.
•
•
•
PE/ICT TEACHER
You will be required to teach Computer Science and Physical Education across primary and middle school phases. Applicants must hold a Teaching Degree or similar teaching qualification. You must have five years’ experience working within a British National Curriculum School. Salary range is commensurate with experience, from $40,000 – $48,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week).
This position is currently held by a work permit holder.
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Your responsibilities will include supporting the classroom teacher in caring for, preparing for and teaching a class of Early Years or primary school age children. Applicants must have experience working in a primary school or in an Early Years environment and/or hold an Early Childhood Certificate. Salary range is commensurate with experience, posts of responsibility and qualifications, from $21,000 - $26,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week or prorata thereof).
This position is currently held by a work permit holder.
CLASS TEACHER
Your responsibilities will include caring for, planning for and teaching a class of primary school age children. Applicants must hold a Teaching Degree in Primary Education or similar teaching qualification. You must have at least two years’ experience working within a British National Curriculum School. Salary range is commensurate with experience, posts of responsibility and qualifications, from $40,000 - $48,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week).
This position is currently held by a work permit holder PO Box 329, Graceway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Tel 649 333 5638
Sports International
QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED YOGA TEACHER
•
•
appointments, programs and maintaining of premises.
REQUIREMENTS:
• Must be trained & have taught Raja yoga to persons of multi-cultural background
•
•
TECHNICAL MACHINE OPERATOR (PACKAGING)
• Responsible for the maintenance and reliability of all equipment, utilities, and the facilities
• Works collaboratively with other functional areas to ensure all maintenance related needs are met in a timely fashion.
• Provides support and/or develops programs related to maintenance including preventative maintenance, facility management, budgeting, engineering, and compliance requirements.
• Maintain the equipment, utilities, and facilities.
• Provide support for in house repair and maintenance projects.
• Develop and maintain proper preventative maintenance of systems
and facilities.
• Ordering of supplies and consumable items related to utility and maintenance needs.
• Provide technical feedback, analysis, complete shift reports, and assist management with daily duties and reporting responsibilities in support of the maintenance department and operations.
• Staying up to date on maintenance programs and procedures.
• Evaluate existing brewery systems and facilities against current and projected needs.
• Handling of chemicals while wearing appropriate PPE.
Salary $52,000 per year or commensurate with experience
Nigerian boxer dies after collapsing mid-bout
Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju has died after collapsing during a light heavyweight bout in Ghana on Saturday.
Oluwasegun, a former national and West African champion in his weight class, lost consciousness in the third round of his Ghana Professional Boxing League fight against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) confirmed the news of his death, stating that, after receiving first aid, he was rushed to the KorleBu Teaching Hospital where
he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.
The general secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Remi Aboderin, described Oluwasegun as a “fearless” fighter who died a “ring warrior”.
“We are really devastated,” Aboderin told BBC Sport Africa.
“[This] is not something we envisaged. We will live up to our responsibility and make sure that we stand [by] the family.”
Oluwasegun had an official record of 23 fights, with 13 victories and eight defeats, before his bout with Mbanugu. (BBC)
JCB PARTS SPECIALIST
NATURE OF POSITION;
• Assisting technicians with all their parts needs, including but not limited to, looking up parts, ordering parts from their respective vendor, pulling parts out of inventory, and taking parts out to technicians when required to maintain and improve shop productivity.
• Ship parts orders as needed.
• Process vendor returns.
• Fill in for front counter parts employees as needed.
• Answer incoming calls promptly and process telephone orders.
• Determine customer needs and fulfill orders.
• Read and interpret catalogs and e-catalogs to determine replacement part numbers and prices
• Examine returned parts for defects.
• Experience with Cat,Volvo,XCMG,Bobcat would be a advantage
• Prepare part sales invoices.
• Assist in management of inventory/stock.
• Establishes and maintains rapport with current customers, always remaining aware of, and addressing their needs.
• Must possess suitable technician background as well of experience within all aspects of automotive mobile services/repaired industry.
Salary: With experience and qualifications salary range $12-$25 per hour.
• Determine replacement parts required according to inspections of old parts, customer requests, or customer descriptions of malfunctions.
Oluwasegun was a former national and West African champion in his weight class
Science & Technology
4:3 intermittent fasting better for weight loss than cutting calories
Over the past few years, intermittent fasting has become a popular dietary pattern for helping to lose weight.
Also known as time-restricted eating, there are a number of different methods of intermittent fasting, including only eating for specific hours of the day, such as the 16:8 method (eat during an 8-hour window, fast for 16 hours each day).
And there are other methods that call for completely fasting or only consuming a minimal amount of calories for a number of days each week, such as the 5:2 method (eat as usual for 5 days, fast 2 days each week) and the 4:3 (eat as usual for 4 days, fast 3 days each week).
Now, a new study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine has found that 4:3 intermittent fasting may result in modestly greater weight loss over 12 months compared to daily calorie restriction.
INTERMITTENT FASTING
VS DAILY CALORIE RESTRICTION FOR WEIGHT LOSS
For this study, researchers from the University of Colorado School of Medicine recruited 165 adults with overweight or obesity.
Study participants were randomly assigned to either follow 4:3 intermittent fasting or a daily calorie restriction diet for 12 months.
Participants in the 4:3 intermittent fasting groups were asked to restrict their calorie intake by 80% of their typical daily needs for 3 non-consecutive days each week, and eat normally on the remaining 4 days with an emphasis on healthy eating.
With the 4:3 intermittent fasting, persons eat as usual for four days and fast for three days each week
Those in the daily calorie restriction diet were assigned a daily calorie goal that would lower their calorie consumption by 34.3%.
All participants received a free gym membership, groupbased behavioural support, and information on calorie counting and targeting their dietary macronutrients. They were also encouraged to exercise for at least 300 minutes weekly.
Out of the original 165 participants, 125 successfully completed the study.
At the study’s conclusion, researchers found that participants in the 4:3 intermittent fasting group lost an average of 7.6% of their
Socks could really improve your sleep, experts say
Want to improve your chances for a good night’s sleep? This idea could actually knock your socks on, says behavioural sleep disorders specialist Michelle Drerup.
“It sounds counterintuitive, I know, but by wearing socks to bed and warming your feet, you may actually lower your core body temperature and fall asleep faster,” said Drerup, director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Cleveland Clinic.
Here’s how that happens. During the day, a typical adult’s core temperature rises to between 97 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit (36.1
C and 37.2 C), with an average of 98.6 F (37 C) — children 10 and younger may run a bit cooler. As night approaches, core temperature begins to drop by one to two degrees, preparing the body for sleep.
A process called distal vasodilation helps with cooling by widening blood vessels in the extremities — primarily the hands and feet — thus increasing heat loss though the skin. As the skin warms, the core of the body cools, which is where those toasty socks come in handy.
“By making your feet warmer,
body weight over the 12 month period, compared to those in the calorie restriction group losing 5%.
More than half (58%) of those in the intermittent fasting group lost at least 5% of their body weight over 12 months, compared to 47% in the calorie restriction group.
Additionally, researchers discovered that participants in the intermittent fasting group had more encouraging changes in their cardiometabolic outcomes. These included systolic blood pressure, total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and fasting glucose levels.
Those in the calorie restriction group showed more favourable changes in diastolic blood pressure and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
But they noted that many of these estimates in cardiometabolic changes lacked precision and
ultimately yielded inconclusive results.
“Daily calorie restriction is the most commonly used dietary weight loss strategy,” Victoria A. Catenacci, MD, associate professor in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and first author of this study told Medical News Today.
“However, adherence to a strategy where calories are restricted every day is challenging for many people,” Catenacci noted.
FURTHER RESEARCH TO FIND OPTIMAL FASTING SCHEDULE NEEDED
MNT had the opportunity to speak with Mir Ali, MD, a boardcertified general surgeon, bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight
Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, about this study.
“The 4:3 intermittent fasting benefits were modest at best,” Ali, who was not involved in the research, pointed out. “Intermittent fasting has been shown in many studies to have beneficial effects. Further studies are necessary to define the optimal fasting schedule and delineate the health benefits. Unfortunately, no one method will work for all people.”
“Comparing different intermittent fasting regimens, and perhaps breaking down further by other variables such as age, gender, or ethnicity, may help define an optimal diet for a particular group of patients,” he added.
MNT also spoke with Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Nutrition-In-Sight, about this study.
“The results of the study were not completely surprising as this type of intermittent fasting may act similarly to ‘metabolic confusion’ or ‘calorie shifting’ which essentially can catch the body by surprise and ‘shake things up’ by oscillating between a calorie deficit and sufficiency in addition to burning calories with exercise between intervals of rest and action,” Richard, who was likewise not involved in the study, explained.
“There have been research studies that have observed the positive benefits of these patterns, as in this study, but it is limited and overall success is highly variable and based on multiple factors unique to the individual and the study design methodology,” she added. (Medicalnewstoday)
By wearing socks to bed persons may actually lower their core body temperature and fall asleep faster
Science & Technology
Is excessive sleepiness as we age a warning sign of dementia?
Dementia is an increasing problem worldwide. More than 55 million people are currently living with the condition, with 139 million predicted to have dementia by 2050.
Many factors may increase a person’s risk of developing dementia. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these include: lack of physical activity; uncontrolled diabetes; high blood pressure (hypertension); hearing loss; tobacco and alcohol use.
Several studies have suggested that disturbed sleep patterns may contribute to dementia risk, but do not agree whether too much or too little sleep has greater impact.
What does sleep duration have to do with dementia?
One large-scale study found that high or low sleep duration increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. AnotherTrusted Source found that short sleep duration in middle age was associated with higher dementia risk.
A third suggests that sleeping more than 9 hours a night is associated with neurodegeneration and dementia.
All these studies relied on participant-reported sleep duration, rather than objective measurement of sleep and wakefulness.
Now, a study led by scientists at the University of California, San Francisco, which used sleep trackers to monitor the sleep patterns of 733 women in their 80s, has found that increased
24-hour sleepiness, particularly excessive napping, was associated with a doubled risk of developing dementia.
The study appears in the journal Neurology.
Ben Dunkley, PhD, a cognitive neuroscientist, associate professor in Medical Imaging at the University of Toronto, Canada, and Chief Science Officer at MYndspan, who was not involved in this research, told Medical News Today that “the study rightly highlights the bidirectional relationship between sleepiness and dementia; however, as the authors point out, the exact direction of the relationship cannot be concluded with a correlation study such as this.”
SLEEP PATTERNS IN OLDER WOMEN
The study recruited 733 community-dwelling women from the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF)Trusted Source, all of whom were aged at least 65, could walk without assistance and had not had two hip replacements.
The mean age of the participants was 82.5 years.
No participants had cognitive impairment or dementia at baseline.
Researchers gave all participants an actigraph, which they wore on their wrists to measure their 24hour sleep-wake activity.
For their data to be included in the analysis, participants had to attend the clinic in person, and have at least 3 consecutive days of actigraph measurements at both
Several studies have suggested that disturbed sleep patterns may contribute to dementia risk
initial visit and five-year followup, as well as completing a sleep log.
From the data, researchers recorded 5-year changes in nighttime sleep, napping and circadian rest-activity rhythmsTrusted Source (RARs — magnitude, timing and regularity of restactivity patterns).
THEY IDENTIFIED THREE MAIN SLEEP PROFILES:
stable sleep (SS), seen in 321 women (43.8% of the cohort), was characterized by stable or slightly improved sleep declining nighttime sleep (DNS) — a total of 256 women (34.9%) had decreases in nighttime sleep quality and duration, moderate increases in napping, and worsening circadian RARs increasing sleepiness (IS) — these 156 women (21.3%) had large increases in both daytime and nighttime sleep duration and quality, as well as worsening circadian RARs.
Increased sleepiness linked to dementia risk At the end of the 5-year period,
researchers determined whether participants had normal cognition, mild cognitive impairmentTrusted Source (MCI), or dementia, based on a number of neuropsychological tests, physician diagnosis, or admission to residential nursing home care. Anyone negative for all these criteria was judged to be cognitively normal.
The researchers adjusted for age, education, race, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, heart attack, use of antidepressants, and cognitive ability at baseline when analysing their results.
Of the elderly cohort, 164 (22.4%) women developed MCI and 93 (12.7%) developed dementia during the 5-year followup.
Women with increasing 24hour sleepiness had approximately double the dementia risk of those with stable sleep profiles over the 5 years. However, increased sleepiness was not associated with increased risk of MCI.
The researchers emphasise that their observational study cannot show the direction of the relationship between excessive
sleep and dementia.
WHY MIGHT MORE SLEEP RAISE DEMENTIA RISK?
“Increased sleepiness and frequent napping may be linked to dementia due to several underlying factors,” Allder told MNT, adding that “one key reason is sleep fragmentation and neurodegeneration — poor nighttime sleep quality can disrupt deep sleep, which is essential for clearing amyloid-beta, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.”
“Circadian disruption also plays a role, as worsening sleep-wake cycles and irregular circadian rhythms are associated with neurodegenerative changes. Circadian misalignment can impair memory consolidation and contribute to cognitive decline,” he continued.
Concurring with the researchers’ suggestion that increased sleepiness might be a result of early dementia, Allder also explained that excessive sleepiness might act as a compensatory mechanism for brain dysfunction.
(Medicalnewstoday)
Socks could really improve your sleep, experts ...
minutes longer than those who didn’t, with fewer awakenings during the night.
KEEPING IT COOL
It’s not just socks. Sleep experts suggest keeping the entire bedroom about 65 F (18.3 C) to keep your core temperature cool during the night. Of course,
that can fluctuate, with some requiring a room closer to 60 F (15.6 C) and others preferring a warmer 70 F (21.1 C).
Another tip is to take a warm (not hot) shower or bath before bed. The principle is the same, Drerup said.
“If I’m slightly increasing my core body temperature a bit just before bedtime, then there’s a bigger drop as it lowers, and that
potentially helps with feeling sleepy,” she said.
This tip may not work for everyone. In my home, I’m addicted to fuzzy socks and wear them religiously to bed — if my tootsies are the slightest bit chilly, sleep is impossible. My husband, on the other hand, immediately kicks the covers off his feet, preferring what I view as popsicle toes.
To each their own, says sleep specialist Jennifer Mundt, an associate professor of family and preventive medicine at the University of Utah who sees patients at the school’s Sleep Wake Center.
“If you wear socks to bed and you feel like your feet are too hot, by all means, take your socks off,” Mundt said.
“It’s the same idea with room
temperature. People can get really hung up — ‘Oh, I heard from this podcast or this book that the bedroom should be this exact temperature.’
“That’s just not really the way it works,” she added. “Just use your own judgment of just what feels comfortable, because our bodies are good at telling us if we’re too warm or we’re too cold.” (CNN)
Science & Technology
Do skin probiotics actually work?
The bacteria and fungi living on your skin play a surprising role in keeping us healthy. Is it possible to give them a boost?
Scratch the surface of the skin, and you’ll find a bustling community of bacteria living there. This is a good thing, as research increasingly shows that having the “right kind” of microbes can help keep our skin young, supple, and smooth for longer. Simply by being there, “good bacteria” protect us from infection from pathogenic, harmful microbes. They also help to repair wounds and may even counteract some of the harmful effects of UV rays.
All-the-more reason to look after our skin microbiome. But how do we do this? One method that has become increasingly popular is the use of topical skin probiotics –which technically means applying live microorganisms to the skin to improve its health.
As far back as 1912, scientists were rubbing bacteria into people’s faces in an attempt to improve conditions such as acne and seborrhea – a common form of dermatitis that causes a red, itchy rash and white or yellow scales.
Today there are dozens of skincare companies selling what they describe as probiotic products, from serums to cleansers and moisturisers. In each case, the balms offer to rebalance the delicate skin microbiome, leaving it “renewed” and “refreshed”.
But while skincare products often claim to be “probiotic”, very few, if any, actually contain live bacteria.
What’s more, as probiotic skin treatments are classed as “cosmetics” and not medicines, their manufacturers don’t have to share the results of any trials that have been conducted on their products, so it’s difficult to know how effective they are.
“The rules around skin care
Most “probiotic” skincare products contain either prebiotics – nutrients that feed and encourage the growth of good bacteria on the skin, or postbiotics – proteins or other products made by beneficial bacteria
products are very different to the rules around drugs, so claims can be made with less rigorous testing than would be made for a pharmaceutical agent,” says Richard Gallo, a dermatologist at UC San Diego School of Medicine.
Most “probiotic” skincare products contain either prebiotics – nutrients that feed and encourage the growth of good bacteria on the skin, or postbiotics – proteins or other products made by beneficial bacteria.
“What we are seeing more and more are approaches that try to influence the microbiome,” says Bernhard Paetzold, co-founder and chief scientific officer of S-Biomedic, a company that aims to treat conditions by restoring the skin’s microbiome through bacterial “transplants”.
According to Paetzold, the main reason for this is that live bacteria are extremely difficult to keep alive throughout the manufacturing,
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storing and distribution process. Once on the skin there’s no guarantee that they’ll even take hold, as they must fight to compete with the millions of other microbes already living there.
The idea of promoting a healthy skin microbiome is rooted in the theory that bacteria and fungi living on the outside of our body help to protect us from those that might do us harm.
Yet the science behind how certain “bad” bacteria can contribute to skin diseases isn’t yet fully understood. What we do know is that people with eczema, rosacea, acne and psoriasis all have different types or levels of certain bacteria living on their skin.
“What exists at the moment is a lot of papers showing that nearly every skin disease imaginable is associated with a shift in the skin microbiome,” says Paetzold. “But this observation just shows an association. It doesn’t say that the shift in the microbiome causes that disease. It could also be that the disease changes the skin environment, and that’s why the bacterial population changes.”
To prove that a particular strain of bacteria is causing a disease, you would need to either give a healthy person that skin disease by slathering the “bad bacteria” on their face, or cure their disease by applying “good” bacteria. While the first option is likely to encounter ethical barriers, there are a few researchers attempting the latter.
The limited clinical trials that have been published, however, do show promising results. Most focus on using live bacteria to treat eczema, also known as atopic
skin inflammation. Disrupting that communication can prevent the toxins from being released.
In 2021, Gallo’s team conducted a phase one randomised controlled trial with 54 adults with atopic dermatitis by applying a cream containing live S. hominis over the course of one week. The results showed that treatment with S. hominis dramatically reduced S. aureus colonisation, and even decreased the redness and itch associated with atopic dermatitis in a subgroup of patients compared to a control group given a placebo cream.
The findings suggest that using special formulations of living bacteria could well help to make the skin’s microbiome healthier. But more work needs to be done to prove its effectiveness before it can be used as a treatment. The team are now recruiting for a phase two randomised trial which will assess the efficacy of the treatment over a longer 14 week timescale.
dermatitis. They are based on the findings that the skin of people with eczema is dominated by Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that can often be pathogenic.
“One of the big problems in the skin for diseases like eczema, is that certain pathogenic bacteria like S. aureus live on the surface of the skin and cause rashes, cause disease, and cause infection,” says Gallo, whose own research group has been searching for ways of harnessing the skin microbiome to fight off the harmful bacteria found thriving on eczema patients.
“We mined the bacteria types that usually live on healthy skin looking for bacteria that could produce things that would fight off those bad bacteria”.
Gallo’s are focusing on Staphylococcus hominis, a naturally occurring skin bacterium which is present in 21% of healthy people, but only 1% of atopic dermatitis patients.
“Our skin provides commensal bacteria like S. hominis with a safe place to live, so some of them have evolved a way of protecting their environment from these bad bacteria that are trying to invade,” says Gallo.
In the case of S. hominis, the bacterium produces anti-microbial peptides – small fragments of protein – which directly kill S. aureus. They also produce chemicals called “autoinducing peptides”, which stop bacterial cells from communicating with one another. Some bacteria like S. aureus signal to one another when their population density reaches a certain level – a mechanism known as quorum sensing – triggering the secretion of toxins that can cause
Elsewhere, other researchers have also had success treating eczema with probiotics. In one 2003 clinical trial, 11 patients with atopic dermatitis were given a cream containing the bacterium Streptococcus thermophiles, which they applied for two weeks. The results showed that the cream enhanced the skin’s production of ceramides – lipids that help to keep the skin hydrated and maintain it as a healthy barrier.
More recently, in 2018 10 adults and five children with atopic dermatitis were given a “microbiome transplant”, where live Roseomonas mucosa bacteria collected from the skin of healthy volunteers was then applied to the skin of the patients twice a week. After 16 weeks, the treatment improved their symptoms by more than 50%.
Although clinical trials focusing on other skin conditions are somewhat rarer, they also show promising results. Acne, for example, is linked to colonisation by the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes. Some researchers are therefore looking for bacteria that produce antimicrobial peptides to inhibit or kill this bacterium. In one clinical trial, a lotion containing the bacterium Enterococcus faecalis was given to patients suffering from severe acne. The lotion significantly reduced pustules compared to a placebo lotion.
Paetzold and his company S-Biomedic, meanwhile, published a clinical trial in 2019 where they gave patients with acne a cream containing specific strains of Cutibacterium acnes. The results showedsome reduction in acne. (BBC)
Sports International
goals
Ovechkin records 892nd career goal to move three away from breaking Gretzky’s NHL record
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin scored his 892nd career goal Wednesday and is now three tally shy of breaking Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky’s 31-year NHL record.
Down 4-0 against the Carolina Hurricanes late in the second period, Ovechkin scored on a 5-on3 power play in the Capitals’ 5-1 loss in Raleigh, North Carolina.
It was the 39-year-old’s 39th goal of the season.
After the game, Ovechkin said it was great to have Gretzky’s support during the historic chase.
“It’s great for hockey,” he said. “Obviously, we have a relationship. He told me of his support. I’m pretty sure he’s going to join the
team and he is going to follow us.”
Carolina has been good for Ovechkin.
The Russian forward netted his 32nd career road goal at the Lenovo Center to extend his highest career goal total at any venue on the road, including his first.
Ovechkin was also selected by the Capitals with the first overall pick in the 2004 NHL draft when the arena was known as the RBC Center.
With the victory, Carolina clinched a playoff berth.
The Eastern Conferencebest Capitals have seven games remaining in the regular season and will next face the Chicago Blackhawks at the Capital One Arena on Friday. (CNN)
UK set to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as only ‘valid’ bid
The United Kingdom is set to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup as the sole “valid” bidder for the tournament, Fifa president Gianni Infantino says.
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland submitted a joint expression of interest in March to hold the World Cup across the home nations.
Under Fifa rotation rules, the tournament must be in Europe or Africa.
Spain’s federation president Rafael Louzan said last week that they were “working on” a joint bid alongside Portugal and Morocco.
However, the deadline for expressions of interest passed on Monday and Infantino says the UK’s bid is the only one received for 2035, while the United States are set to host the 2031 edition.
“Today I can confirm as part
of the bidding process that we received one bid for 2031 and one valid bid for 2035,” Infantino said at a Uefa congress in Belgrade.
“The 2031 bid is the United States of America and potentially some other Concacaf members and the 2035 bid is from Europe and the home nations.
“So the path is there for the Women’s World Cup in 2031 and 2035 to take place in some great nations and further boost the women’s football movement.”
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “We are honoured to be the sole bidder for the Fifa Women’s World Cup 2035. The hard work starts now to put together the best possible bid by the end of the year.”
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell said: “We look forward to working together to finalise our
proposal and lay the foundations for a tournament that will excite football fans around the world and inspire girls and women across Scotland.”
Patrick Nelson, chief executive of the Irish FA, said: “There’s still a lot of hard work to be done along with our partners in bringing it all together, however this will be a brilliant opportunity to show the world what Northern Ireland and Belfast have to offer.”
Noel Mooney, chief executive of the Welsh FA, said: “With our first ever participation in a Women’s Euro’s coming up this summer and the hosting of major women’s finals coming to Cymru [Wales], we are on an incredible journey so we must make the most of this to inspire the next generation of players, volunteers and supporters.”
Jokic sets NBA record in 61-point haul
The Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic hit a career-high 61 points as he recorded the highest-scoring tripledouble in NBA history.
The Serb, a three-time MVP, claimed 10 rebounds and 10 assists in a 140-139 overtime defeat by the Minnesota Timberwolves at Ball Arena.
The previous record was held by Nuggets team-mate Russell Westbrook, who scored 57 points and made 13 rebounds and 11 assists for Oklahoma City Thunder in 2017.
Westbrook, who joined the Nuggets in 2024, missed a layup with 10 seconds remaining in overtime with the
139-138.
He then fouled Nickeil Alexander-Walker in trying to block a three-point attempt with 0.1 seconds on the clock.
Alexander-Walker made two of the three free throws to seal a dramatic Timberwolves victory.
They were without Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo, who were serving one-match bans for their part in a brawl with the Detroit Pistons this week.
The Timberwolves are seventh in the Western Conference and the Nuggets third.
CURRY SHINES FOR WARRIORS
Two-time MVP Stephen Curry hit 12 three-pointers in a 52-point haul as the Golden State Warriors beat the Memphis Grizzlies 134-125 at FedEx Forum.
“The guy’s 37 years old - it’s incredible,” said Warriors coach Steve Kerr.
“I can’t believe he’s still doing this at this age. But he’s put the work in and he’s still got it.
“Fifty-two points with people draped all over him all game long. The conditioning, the skill, the audacity, the belief. It’s incredible to watch Steph at work.” Victory lifted the Warriors above the Grizzlies and into fifth in the Western Conference. (BBC)
Nuggets leading
Washington Capitals Captain Alex Ovechkin needs two
to tie Wayne Gretzky and three to move ahead
Spain won the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand
Jokic recorded the highest-scoring triple-double
Sports International
Ohtani’s walk-off home run gives Dodgers historic win on his bobblehead night
Shohei Ohtani continues to amaze in more ways than anyone can ever imagine – including with a walk-off home run on his own bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium.
With the game tied 5-5 in the bottom of the ninth, Ohtani stepped up to the plate and delivered a walk-off solo home run to lift the Los Angeles Dodgers over the Atlanta Braves 6-5 on Wednesday night.
The Dodgers, the reigning World Series champions, improved to 8-0 to start the new Major League Baseball season – the best start ever for a defending champion.
Last season, Ohtani had a season to remember, taking home his third-career MVP award after a historic 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases during the regular season.
Ohtani has picked up right where he left off this year.
Wednesday’s home run was the
third of the season while hitting .333 in eight games with two stolen bases.
After the game, Ohtani said he “was looking for a really good pitch to hit” but another interaction also led to the home run.
“One of the fans was telling me it’s your bobblehead night, you better get a hit,” Ohtani told Spectrum SportsNet LA, while laughing via his translator. “I am glad I was able to do that.”
Thousands of fans had lined up early before the game, hoping to score an Ohtani bobblehead.
As for the Braves, its been a season to forget up to this point.
Atlanta falls to 0-7 after blowing a 5-0 lead heading into the bottom of the second inning.
Braves manager Brian Snitker called it a “shame” the squad couldn’t get their first win.
“But that’s up to us,” Snitker
told reporters. “We had it there and we couldn’t finish the deal. We’re going to take the day off and reset and hopefully come out on Friday and get something done.”
The Dodgers will start a threegame series in Philadelphia against the Phillies while the Braves return to Truist Park for their home opener against the Miami Marlins on Friday.
Unfortunately for the Dodgers, they aren’t the only undefeated team. And to make matters more sticky, the other team is a divisional foe.
The San Diego Padres defeated the Cleveland Guardians 5-2 on Wednesday to improve to 7-0 on the season for the first time in franchise history.
It will be a little bit before both teams will face each other, with the first series between the two rivals beginning on June 9 at Petco Park in San Diego. (CNN)
McIlroy can cope with Masters pressure - Mickelson
Six-time major winner Phil Mickelson does not believe the pressure of Rory McIlroy’s attempt to complete a career Grand Slam will be “an issue for him” at the Masters.
The 35-year-old from Northern Ireland won the US Open, The Open and two US PGA Championships between 2011 and 2014 but has never secured a victory at Augusta National.
The 2025 edition of the season’s first major, which will be held from 10-13 April, will be his 17th time playing in the tournament.
The world number two’s best finish at the Georgia course came when he was runner-up to American Scottie Scheffler in 2022.
“That’s challenging,” three-time Masters champion Mickelson said of McIlroy blocking out the hype around his efforts to become just the sixth man to win all four of golf’s biggest prizes.
“But he’s done it so many times in his ability to win tournaments.
He’s been able to compartmentalise that.
“I don’t think that’s going to be an issue for him.”
McIlroy, who has already won twice this season on the PGA Tour, led after each of the first three rounds at Augusta in 2011 but shot an 80 on Sunday to finish in a tie for 15th.
American Mickelson, who won his first major after 13 years on tour and has been runner-up six times at the US Open, does not feel McIlroy’s history with the tournament is preventing him from the elusive victory.
“His ability to compartmentalise all the things that have transpired in the past is a strength of his so I don’t think it’ll be an issue or I don’t think that’s what’s holding him back from winning the Masters,” added the 54-year-old. Mickelson, who will play in LIV Golf’s Miami event this week, also believes the course at Augusta National is suited to McIlroy’s game.
Top-20 players ask Grand Slams for more prize money
The top 20 men’s and women’s players have sent a letter to the four Grand Slams asking for more prize money.
The letter, which was first reported by French newspaper L’Equipe, requested a meeting to discuss players receiving a greater share of the revenue generated by the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open.
World number 11 Emma Navarro cited “unfair pay ratios” as a reason for putting her name to the letter.
“I talked a little bit to the other players about it and felt like it was a good idea to sign”, the 23-yearold American said on Wednesday.
“I think it’s a good cause to
come together as players and make sure we’re getting treated fairly.”
Prize money at last year’s Wimbledon was £50m, exactly double the amount offered in 2014.
In that 10-year period, prize money for first-round losers increased from £27,000 to £60,000.
But players have frequently pointed to the vast revenues generated by the Grand Slams, and feel they deserve a significantly larger return.
In the year up to July 2023, the All England Club (AELTC) had a turnover of £380m. But once the costs of running the Championships were deducted, the operating profit was just under £54m.
Nearly £49m of that went to the LTA, as the AELTC has agreed to
pay the governing body 90% of its annual surplus until 2053. Costs include prize money, employing more than 8,000 seasonal staff, preparing and developing the site and supporting other grass court events.
Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen said increased prize money would be particularly welcomed by lower-ranked players, who can struggle to make ends meet at other times of the year.
“I think that’s going to benefit all the players, not only the top players, especially those that work hard during the year and need to get paid from the Grand Slams and have to survive,” added the Chinese world number eight.
Rory McIlroy’s best finish in the Masters was as runner-up in 2022
Shohei Ohtani celebrates after blasting a solo walk-off home run to give the Los Angeles Dodgers a 6-5 win over the Atlanta Braves
Emma Navarro reached the US Open semi-finals in 2024, losing to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka
Sports National
Yankees and their ‘torpedo’ bats break MLB home run record in loss
Despite losing their first game of the MLB season, the New York Yankees continued their historic start to the year as they broke multiple records through their prolific home run hitting.
In the Yankees’ 7-5 home loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, the team went deep three times –one each for Jasson Domínguez, Anthony Volpe and Ben Rice – to reach 18 through the first four games of the 2025 season.
The mark broke the MLB record for the most homers a team has hit through the opening four games of a season, breaking the previous record of 16 set by the 2006 Detroit Tigers.
According to the Yankees’ website, which cites Stats Perform, the team also became the first in MLB history to have nine players hit home runs in the team’s first four games and the first to have three players hit at least three in the opening four games: Volpe, Aaron Judge and Jazz Chisholm Jr.
In that span, the Yankees have scored 41 runs which is secondmost in franchise history through four games, trailing only their 48 runs racked up in 1950.
Despite the record-breaking evening, it wasn’t enough for the Bronx Bombers on the night.
“It’s a long season, so it’s alright, but it’s definitely disappointing,” Yankees pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. said afterwards, per the Yankees website. “We had a chance to win that game, and I’ve got to make
better pitches right there.”
‘SOMEBODY SHOULD HAVE INVENTED THIS DECADES AGO’
The Yankees have been one of the main beneficiaries of the “torpedo” bats which have sparked so much conversation through the opening of the new season.
“Torpedo” bats, so called because their shape resembles a torpedo, were developed by former MIT physicist and current Miami Marlins staffer Aaron “Lenny” Leanhardt when he was an analyst in the Yankees organisation. The thinking, he told the Athletic, is to make the bat “as heavy and as fat as possible” in the spot where players are most often making contact with the ball.
The Yankees analytics department looked at every player’s hitting data so that the widest part of the bat – or the barrel – could be placed where they most often hit the ball and adjusted each player’s individual bat accordingly.
Only a handful of Yankees players are currently using the “torpedo” bats, with Volpe and Chisholm Jr. enjoying red-hot starts as a result, while Judge is also off to a great start with his standard bat.
The success of the “torpedo” has been the biggest talking point of the early 2025 MLB season, but for astrophysicist Neil Degrasse Tyson, he’s surprised it’s taken this long.
“I’m wondering: ‘Somebody should have invented this decades ago’ because, in retrospect, it looks quite simple,” Tyson – who describes himself as a baseball fan and an “authentic” Yankees fan having been born in the Bronx –told CNN’s Boris Sanchez and Brianna Keilar.
Tyson brought a Nerf bat to the interview to explain why the “torpedo” bats have been so revolutionary. He highlighted the thickest part of the bat running from the top down through the majority of the Nerf bat’s barrel which allows “you to hit it at almost any part of this bat and get maximal ‘wood’ behind it.”
But, conversely in the “torpedo” bat, Tyson explains that by targeting a specific “sweet spot” and making the part of the bat where players typically hit the ball wider, bat developers “aren’t wasting wood in parts of the bat where I’m not making contact with the ball.”
“(Also), if I move the center of mass of the bat closer to my hands, two things happen: I can actually
swing the bat faster and I have more control over the bat,” Tyson explained. “It’s not that different from back in the days when they used to choke up on the bat (by) bringing your hands closer to the center of mass and the ball.
“Many of the batters who choked up had very high precision with how and when they hit. But regardless, if you’re a slugger and you put the mass closer in, I will not only be able to swing faster and if I make contact with the widest part, then I will be able to put more concentrated mass from the bat behind the ball, you should have higher exit speed off of the bat when that happens. And any time you have higher speed off the bat, the ball’s going to go farther.”
The development of the new form of bats has led to questions over whether they fit within MLB’s current guidelines and if they’ll become commonplace.
And Tyson is firmly in the camp of letting new innovations remain.
“You want to stay in the rules and the rules don’t say where
you put the thick part of your bat. It gives a rule for how much it weighs, for how long it is, it’s supposed to be rolled out of one piece of wood,” the 66-year-old said. “And so they’d have to come up with a rule to make it illegal and, personally, that would be stupid. Well, not stupid, everyone has access to this bat.
“It would be something different. If it was some secret formula and nobody else had it, then that would be unfair – plus Judge hit four home runs and didn’t use the bat. You’ve still got to know how to hit home runs. You still have to be good at that.
“But I will add that so many other advances in sports have made it much more interesting to watch. Diet, exercise, weight training, distance training, all the physiology that we have altered, enhanced over the decades, that’s in the human body. I don’t see why if we can improve the action on the field with the equipment that’s used that we shouldn’t do that as well.” (CNN)
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery
Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid will undergo arthroscopic surgery next week on his left knee, the team announced on Wednesday.
The 76ers said the decision was made “following consultations with medical experts.”
Embiid was shut down for the season on February 28 after featuring in only 19 games as he continued to struggle with the same knee he had surgery on back in February 2024.
The 31-year-old was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player for the 2022-23 season and was scoring points at a historic pace last campaign, before being injured in an unfortunate collision with the Golden State Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga in January 2024.
Embiid underwent surgery and returned to action in April 2024 but was unable to help the Sixers advance in the playoffs, losing in six games to the New York Knicks in the first round.
He then represented Team USA at the Paris Olympics and was largely underwhelming in the gold medal-winning campaign, but there was apparently no sign of an injury.
However, Embiid again began having issues with his left knee as he started to ramp up ahead of the current season, with rest periods and different treatments failing to remedy the problem.
The decision was finally taken to shut Embiid down for the season as the 76ers, who came into this year believing they were title
contenders, floundered near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
It has been a miserable, injuryplagued season for Philly, with marquee signing Paul George also being shut down for the season following ongoing problems with his groin and knee.
Star guard Tyrese Maxey has also missed the last 16 games with a hand injury, but hasn’t yet been shut down for the season.
Philadelphia rookie Jared McCain was among the leading contenders for Rookie of the Year before his season was ended following surgery for a torn meniscus.
The Sixers are currently on a nine-game losing streak and sit 13th in the East. (CNN)
Anthony Volpe has three home runs this season while using a “torpedo” bat
Joel Embiid will undergo another surgery on his left knee
TCI BOXERS TO FACE CANADIANS IN BOXING INVITATIONAL
Providenciales is set to host a thrilling evening of boxing as Team Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) take on Team Canada in the ADF Fight Night showcase.
The event will take place on Saturday evening (5th April) at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex and will feature the Felix Morley Community Centre Boxing Club facing strong contenders from top Canadian boxing clubs (including Sarnia, Brampton, and Niagara).
Tickets will be available at the door, with prices starting at $10 for children and $20 for adults. VIP tables, which include refreshments, are priced at $600 for up to four
people.
The event is complemented by a Boxing Coach/Official Clinic held during the week at the Felix Morley Community Centre. The clinic, which offers a foundational introduction to Level 1 officiating skills—including ring positioning and communication techniques— was open to coaches, officials, and athletes.
The sessions were led by Tom Hennessy, a seasoned Canadian boxing coach whose career spans over 50 years. Hennessy is the founder of the Bluewater Boxing Club in Sarnia and has guided athletes to provincial, national, and international success.
Police defeat GK Foods in latest cricket clash
The Police cricket team recorded a four-wicket victory as action in the Turks and Caicos Islands T20 cricket competition continued over the weekend at the Downtown Ball Park.
In a relatively low-scoring encounter, GK Foods won the toss and opted to bat first. Although Ariharan Kuthalingam played some scintillating strokes towards the end of his innings to finish with a match-high 67, the other batsmen were unable to capitalise, and the side succumbed for 139-9 from their allotted overs.
Kuthalingam, who started relatively slowly, became ultraaggressive later on, belting five of his 10 fours in his last two overs at the crease. He also finished with a six.
Support came from Ashok Kumar, who contributed 22 runs. Rasheed George led the bowling attack with figures of 2-36. In reply, Police laboured to 141-6 in 18 overs. Kareem Jack, who struck six fours, finished with 35 runs before retiring hurt. Ian Ganness ended unbeaten on 27, including four fours.
The event is carded for Saturday evening
Sports National
Collaborative effort won A. Louise Garland track and field title – Coach Missick
Defending champions of the InterHigh School Track and Field Championships, A. Louise Garland High School, retained their title through a solid coaches-athletes connection, according to the team’s coach, Courtney Missick.
The former speedster turned coach stated that the coaches implemented the necessary strategies, which were effectively executed by the athletes to secure the win.
Missick added that he loved the competitive level of the event and expressed hope that all schools can maintain that drive as the islands build on the level of competition to ensure that TCI athletes continue running, throwing, and jumping at both national and international levels.
“Thank you to all schools who participated, and let’s continue to put in the work for the next generation of athletes,” he remarked.
In the final medal count, Louise Garland edged out Clement Howell High School (CHHS) by 55 to 54 medals. However, this was
three gold medals, three silver medals, and 12 bronze medals. Raymond Gardiner High School rounded off the top five with three gold medals, three silver medals, and eight bronze medals. They were followed by WM, MA, Elite, BWIC, and PTIS.
The championships witnessed awe-inspiring moments as athletes shattered long-standing records, leaving their mark on the competition. Love Joseph surpassed his own Boys’ Open 5000m record of 18:51.01, set in 2024, by clocking an astounding new time of 17:24.48.
In the U20 Boys’ Long Jump, Melique Evans of Clement Howell High School soared to a recordbreaking distance of 6.67m, surpassing the 6.55m mark set in 2017 by Wilkens Sylvain. Meanwhile, Kamron Handfield of Raymond Gardiner High School redefined the U16 Boys’ Long Jump category by achieving a remarkable leap of 6.54m, eclipsing Mikyo Simpson’s 2015 record of 6.14m.
Kamron Handfield receiving his gold medal
Louise Garland has dominated the meet this decade
Record Holder Melique Evans posing for a picture with HE The Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam
800m, 1500m, 3000m and 4x400m Relay Gold medallist Love Joseph in action
