TC Weekly News, March 1-7, 2025

Bailey calls for holistic approach to peace in TCI

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Acting Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey delivered a candid and compelling address to the Rotary Club of Providenciales, outlining his vision for combating crime and fostering peace within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In one of his first public engagements with a nongovernmental organization since assuming his role, Bailey, a 40-year veteran of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, didn’t mince words, tackling the complex issues of crime, community, and the need for a holistic approach to peacebuilding.

Appointed amidst a surge in gang-related crime, Bailey’s reputation precedes him.

Known as the “Gangbuster”

in Jamaica, he has a proven track record of dismantling notorious gangs and significantly reducing crime rates.

During his speech, he drew upon his experiences in Jamaica, illustrating the strategies that dramatically reduced homicides and other major crimes.

He began by emphasising the importance of self-respect and respect for others as fundamental principles for a peaceful society.

“The absence of peace in communities is because of love, that void is created by lack of love,” he stated.

“Every individual, irrespective of where you were born, the circumstances under which you were born. They love to be respected and appreciated.”

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He stressed that true change begins with individuals loving and respecting themselves and each recognising that everyone is created in the image of God.

He then addressed the issue of violence, arguing that it’s often a manifestation of a survival instinct, driven by a lack of opportunity and a sense of marginalisation. He referenced underserved communities in the Turks and Caicos Islands drawing a nexus between crime and the environment.

“So when you look at the concept of violence in our society, a lot of times violence is used, not necessary because they want to hurt you, but because it’s survivor tactic” Bailey explained.

He recounted a story from his time as a fraud investigator in Jamaica, where he encountered a brilliant individual who justified his actions by committing fraudulent activities.

Bailey also shared a personal anecdote about a violent incident in a Jamaican community called Nannyville, where nine people were shot and injured, including a child.

He described how he spent weeks interacting with residents, providing reassurance, implementing a curfew and a community-based policing approach to turn the tide of violence in that volatile community which through collective action enjoyed years of peace and tranquillity.

“I started up a mission to work with the people in the community.”

He emphasised the importance of engaging with the community, including elders, churches, NGOs, and even politicians.

Similarly, the acting commissioner stressed that law enforcement alone cannot solve the

problem of crime in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He said: “We can’t shoot our way out of it…it doesn’t matter how many police officers you put on the street. You just cannot shoot your way through it.”

He advocated for a joint approach involving government, law enforcement, social agencies, and citizens to create lasting peace and harmony.

“We have to create opportunities for people to feel respected, for people to feel that sense of belonging, for people to feel appreciated, for people to see a way and their path in life.”

Bailey also addressed the issue of immigration and the TCI being a melting pot for different nationalities and cultures.

He acknowledged the challenges of managing borders and integrating individuals into society. “But the reality, those that are in

the country who are legitimate … how do we integrate them so that if they live in Dockyard, they have basic amenities available to them?, light, water, proper road, proper facilities, so that they can feel a sense of dignity that is important.”

In closing, Bailey reiterated the importance of upholding the Christian principles of loving God and loving one’s neighbour as the foundation for a peaceful society.

“And I think if we do that, then we may have a more peaceful society.”

The Rotary Club of Providenciales is a dynamic and impactful non-governmental organization focused on community service, innovation, and collaboration working to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

Bailey received a token of appreciation and a certificate of service from Rotary President Ms.Roma Stubbs.

Rotary Members listening keenly to the Commissioner’s message of love and unity

Acting Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey and Rotary President Ms Roma Stubbs

The Acting Commissioner was presented with a token of appreciation for addressing the club

TCI on the verge of economic boom –

BY OLIVIA ROSE

GDP expected to double to $3.5bn in five years

A new era of prosperity may be dawning for the Turks and Caicos Islands, according to a bold prediction made during the February 21st, 2025, Throne Speech by HE Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands at the opening of Parliament in Grand Turk.

The centrepiece of this vision is a projected doubling of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to approximately $3.5bn within the next five years.

The Throne speech, delivered on behalf of the Progressive National Party (PNP) government, which secured a landslide victory at the February 7th polls, described a new era of prosperity for the islands.

“Mr Speaker, without a strong economy, the TCI will not be able to make the transformation necessary,” Governor DanielSelvaratnam stated emphatically.

Reading on behalf of the PNP, she said that the ruling party will prioritise enhancing the ease of doing business through policies that foster both domestic and foreign investments, while also promoting entrepreneurship. They aim to establish efficient revenue collection systems and strengthen legislative frameworks for key laws like Procurement and Public Finance Management.

The party also plans to improve overall productivity, accountability, and transparency. Additionally, a new employment framework will be introduced to protect Heritage Islanders and prepare them for

high-quality job opportunities.

The governor went on to outline the drivers of this projected growth, emphasising the significant role of tourism and construction.

She said: “In this financial year and beyond, the $4bn dollars of investment projects will begin to bear fruits, and fuel robust growth in the economy.

“The tourism and construction sectors will create new jobs and push the country’s revenue to historic highs. We expect tourism revenues to surpass $300m.”

However, she cautioned against relying solely on tourism,

and in recognising the need for a diversified economy, she announced the government’s plans to bolster other sectors.

“The country cannot rely on tourism alone”, the Governor stressed.

“A sustained effort to diversify the economic base of the TCI, by building up the financial services, fishing, and agriculture sectors is underway.”

This commitment to diversification includes the establishment of Agro parks to boost domestic food production and providing technical and

financial support to transform the fishing and agricultural industries.

Moreover, the government’s strategy extends beyond sectorspecific initiatives, it also encompasses broader measures aimed at creating a more favourable business environment.

These include improving the ease of doing business, creating an effective revenue collection system, developing a strong legislative framework, and enhancing efficiency and accountability.

“My government will improve the ease of doing business with a framework that encourages

domestic and foreign investments and entrepreneurship.

“Create an effective and efficient revenue collection system. Develop a strong legislative and operational framework for critical laws, including procurement and public finance management. Improve efficiency, productivity, accountability, and transparency. Create a new employment framework that protects heritage islanders and equips them for highquality jobs.”

Addressing concerns about inflation, Governor DanielSelvaratnam assured the public that the government is actively monitoring the situation and will provide relief as needed.

She also reflected on the government’s achievements over the past four years. “Mr Speaker, in the last four years, the government did what many thought was impossible. We built a booming economy, almost doubled the GDP and set the Turks and Caicos on a path of growth, development and prosperity for our people.”

Looking ahead, the governor reiterated the PNP’s government’s commitment to inclusive growth and development.

“In this new term, my government will continue to create an economy that benefits everyone.”

She concluded the speech with an optimistic outlook for the future, urging unity and collective action.

“We have so many reasons to be optimistic about the future of these islands. Let us seize the hope and promise of this day. Let us unite in the noble goal to do the best for our country and people.”

Aerial view of Hotels & Resorts on Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands

Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam

THE FUTURE OF ASTWOOD AND THE PDM

While many thought that the 2025 General Elections had come to an end with an overwhelming victory for the PNP, especially with the swearing-in of the new Cabinet, the PDM, via the courts, is aiming to throw a wrench into the ruling party’s victory celebrations.

An election petition filed on Friday last by Mr Edwin Astwood and Mr Robert Been is seeking to make the election null and void and to have fresh parliamentary elections. The main opposition party cited a number of reasons for the election petition, including irregularities in ballot papers, voter machines malfunctioning, refusal of a recount, and an allegation of PNP “buying votes”.

Election observer group Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE), however, according to its preliminary report, acknowledged some shortcomings but said that despite the issues, the elections were “free and fair,” conducted with “high professional standards,” and the results “reflected the wishes of the electorates.”

What are your thoughts?

Leading from the front

When it comes to the idea of leadership and a man who has been in frontline politics for 12 years, despite his youthful appearance, Hon Edwin Astwood may be considered a statesman. As PDM Leader and like his predecessors such as Hon JAGS McCartney, Hon Oswald O. Skippings, Hon Derek Taylor, Hon Floyd Seymour, Hon Doug Parnell, and Hon Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Hon Astwood has championed issues such as equity for workers, a living wage, control of natural resources for the people, empowerment, and essentially, a “Place in the Sun.”

The elections were indeed unexpected as the PDM gained momentum in the last few days leading up to the polling date. The leadership in Hon Astwood can be seen in his call for a reassessment, regrouping, and retooling. Given the realities, such as not having anywhere near the amount of money

as the PNP, the PDM did relatively well. It is bizarre that the message of the PDM did not resonate with the youth: a message which spoke, at the very least, to $12m in scholarships, when the current government’s allocation went down to $3m plus from $4m or so.

The PNP’s campaign did get personal and was the product of ad hominem, i.e., personal attacks on the PDM and its leadership, and despite that, the results were said to be crushing. This kind of introspection is helpful and will aid the PDM in finding out what went wrong and how to fix it.

Outfoxed

Hon Edwin Astwood was outfoxed by a better political player. Kudos to the Premier for playing politics at this high level. Astwood had his best hand and he blundered, he should make way for a fresh face and let the party re-brand itself with youthfulness.

Was he defeated?

“Following a crushing defeat at the February 7th general elections”, begs the question of whether the PDM was actually defeated and if the leader of that party is too hasty in conceding. According to the Hon PDM leader, “But what I saw had happened within those last 10 days or so, I saw the whole country change. I believe that after the debate between the Premier and I, we had the lead, we had the lead going into the elections, but we saw what certain influencers in the country are like, the psyche of our electorate and how things can change on a flip of a dime”.

Yes indeed, the PDM Leader came off as winning the debate, and emerging as Premier, It was certain the PDM had traction and momentum. The results were huge, questionable, and the product of what appeared to be huge swings. This makes the idea of a defeat an issue to be questioned as the results are before the courts. At issue can be the idea that the voting machines were not properly functioning and indeed, why did the TCI even need voting machines of an electronic nature? The country is small, with less than 10,000 registered voters, not like the US, UK, or Canada, where millions of people must vote.

The results on Feb 7, 2025, were announced generally around the time as when in times past, the paper ballots were. Yes, deep into and in the “heat of the night.” Untried, untested, and subject to vulnerabilities, these machines were not needed and could be the culprit to all of this, the so-called crushing defeat and the fallout thereafter.

A negative campaign?

The PNP did run a negative campaign, as if they were losing and needed to catch up”. It was rather interesting because the issues were against them. A majority of the people had an issue with the Beach Vendor’s law, the Sale or scrapping of the Tourist Board to a dubious arrangement in the DMO, the further surrender of control of the Carnival deal, and the feeling of a loss of rights in our country and our future.

It stands to reason that on the Governing PNP’s side that a negative campaign was needed. It was personal and below the belt. Power was needed by all means necessary. The PDM leaders stated in response, “Whenever people said we ran a negative campaign I have to laugh at that because if you look at the videos, all press conferences, everything, all the launching of candidates and putting ideas together, putting our strategies, our plans to the people, all those videos that we did, nothing was negative, everything was positive.”

In fact, it was “eyebrow-raising” that the PNP needed to run a negative campaign at a time they claimed to have had so many

achievements these past four years. So, why the need for all of the negativity?

PDM

appealed to the aging

Except for more scholarships, PDM had very little for young people. On the other hand, the PNP had the economy flowing and numerous investment opportunities in place to enhance the growth of the country.

Personally, I feel the PDM were more focused on the older TCIslanders and winning their votes than all the voting persons.

Below the belt

The Hon Edwin Astwood was able to say how the PNP campaigned on the idea of sending him back to the hospital. Such petty, street remarks, below the level of a Premier and a governing party.

The PDM claimed to have run a positive campaign. The Hon PDM Leader stated that “Everything I spoke about the Premier was on his record. That’s on his professional and political record. Never once mentioned anything personal about him. But can they say that on their side?”

Not at all, the Premier’s wife was allowed by him and His campaign to get “personal” towards the PDM Leader “without the PDM returning the same shots at her or their party!” He further stated that, “All they did was run negativity and make up things about us, about who wanted to set the dump on fire, that we don’t like this group of foreigners, we don’t like that group, we hate this group of foreigners.”

In fact, the issue of the fires at the dump was a new low for the Premier, because while making the accusation, no police report was filed. The PDM can be accused of being too nice, because when you are in a political war, it’s a war of a different nature; “when they fire, you must shoot back in equal measure.”

Look out for the influx

The Brits need to watch the US government

Supreme Court will hear all three election petitions this May

BY DELANA ISLES

A judge of the Supreme Court will hear submissions from attorneys representing the petitioners and respondents on three separate election petitions this May. This decision was handed down last Friday.

Counsel and party representatives appeared in the Grand Turk Supreme Court before Justice Chris Selochan on February 21, when the matter was called.

One of the petitions involves the Bight constituency seat, which the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) candidate Audric Skippings won. His win removed the incumbent from the Progressive National Party

(PNP) Matthew ‘Jay’ Stubbs from the post. Skippings is represented by attorney and former parliamentarian, Alvin Garland.

Stubbs is represented by attorney-at-law Akierra Missick and King’s Counsel Ariel Misick. Stubbs lost his seat by one vote.

A second petition involves the Wheeland constituency seat in which questions are raised as to the validity of the election result in the district due to alleged insufficiencies in the process and errors by the Elections Commission. Rosebelle Gibson filed that suit; she is represented by attorney George Missick.

The third petition was filed by PDM’s Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood

policy with Haitian illegals. Forcing home 100s of thousands, as threatened last week, could create a catastrophe in this region.

The domestic and hemispheric threats to the TCI are manifest. The governor certainly knows that.

Bizarre occurrences

It will take a court order to reopen the ballots, check the machines, and see what happened to really “know what really happened on Election Day” February 7, 2025 in the Turks & Caicos. It is respectfully stated that these elections had nothing to do with the negativity of the campaign, the positivity of the rhetoric, or how Willian Beliard, a Grand Turk Boy, was able to get more votes in North Caicos than both the Hon Ralph Higgs and the Hon Chuck Musgrove.

The list of bizarre occurrences in this election was huge, which cannot be accounted for by the usual post-election analysis. In speeches before and after the election, the Premier himself expressed surprise that he came out on top.

It was and remains ‘anachronistic’ that the government decided that voting machines were needed.

Not being human, they are a creature of “another master whose thinking could come from anywhere, within or without the machines.” They are BOTS, designed to perform computer applications as planned and programmed. Anything is then possible and could have happened.

and PDM’s Deputy Leader Robert Been.

The three petitions all list the Supervisor of Elections and the Attorney General as respondents.

Each petition will have separate days of hearing: May 1 and 2, along with May 12 and 13, the court will hear the petition brought against Skippings win in the Bight, and by the PDM leadership, respectively.

As it relates to the petition involving Randy Howell, the court will convene on Friday, February 28, to determine a date for that hearing.

Contesting the elections in that constituency were Randy Howell for the PNP and Anthony Walkin for the PDM. Howell secured a seat in parliament by a mere three

Eliminate political division

It has been raised in the past and now would be a good moment to raise again the possibility of completely eliminating political parties from the governmental process in the TCI.

This tribal division of a population, inherited and reinforced by our colonial masters to keep us divided has become unnecessary not only here but everywhere in the world.

Look how partisanship is eroding democracies around the world. TCI could, if the people wish it, become one of the first democracies to embrace a collective conscience by removing the distractions of party politics. Who isn’t completely fed up with the status quo?

Removing political parties allows person’s to vote for completely independent candidates who they truly believe is right for their district and their own interests rather than being “forced” to “vote down the line” for the good of the party!

Rewrite the constitution! Be brave and bring forth a new era. Make political parties illegal. Allow the people to be governed fairly and without party line corruption and nepotism strangling their children’s futures.

Of course the politicians currently in power will be too afraid to make this happen so I call on likeminded individuals to start a revolution (online), a call for independent representation across the board and a path to a much brighter future. If there is enough voice, one party or another new one will campaign on making this a reality. What a wonderful world it would be.

votes, beating Walkin’s 365 with a narrow margin of 368.

In her petition, Gibson listed some 20 other votes that were not counted due to irregularities.

She alleges that the supervisor of elections failed to publish the ballot papers following section 6 of the Ordinance, depriving voters of the opportunity to review and familiarise themselves with the format beforehand. This and other issues, Gibson said, significantly impacted the election result. Blue Hills was among a number of the districts that called for a recount.

Relief Sought

Both Gibson and the PDM leadership, in their separate petitions, are calling for the counterfoils to the ballot papers and/or the ballots to be scrutinized.

Gibson wants a declaration

to be made that the election in electoral district no. 8 (Wheeland) was conducted in substantial noncompliance with the Elections Ordinance, rendering it void.

Further to that, she is calling for Howell’s return as district representative to be set aside. Also, for an order that a byelection be held in Blue Hills so that the electors can send their representative to parliament.

The PDM leadership – Astwood and Been – are meanwhile calling for the entire election process to be declared null and void, and to have fresh parliamentary elections.

Among the reasons cited in their petition include irregularities in ballot papers, voter machines malfunctioning, refusal of a recount, and an allegation that the PNP ‘bought votes’.

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Crown’s case draws to a close in Michael Misick and others’ corruption trial

BY DELANA ISLES

The trial involving Michael Misick, McAllister Hanchell, and Thomas Chalmers Misick is approaching its halfway point, with the prosecution expected to conclude its case in a few weeks.

Lead prosecutor King’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell announced this week that he aims to finish presenting evidence by the end of next week or early the following week.

The trial resumed earlier this month after a break for Christmas, and following the passing of one of the defence attorneys. Since then, the Crown has been calling witnesses and presenting its evidence to the court.

The defence is set to present its case next unless there are any last-minute requests for dismissal of the charges against the three defendants. Such requests were previously made last December.

Michael Misick, the chief defendant, faces the most serious charges in this case. He served as the Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands from 2006 to 2009, during which widespread corruption in the government is alleged to have taken place. The charges against him and his co-defendants, Thomas Misick and Hanchell, include extensive

Over

corruption, bribery, and money laundering.

In December, Judge Rajendra Narine dismissed no-case submissions from the defendants, allowing the long-awaited retrial to proceed. This retrial follows another involving four individuals charged with money laundering and bribery.

Floyd Hall and Clayton Greene, the only two defendants previously convicted on one charge each, are

still awaiting the Court of Appeal’s decision on several grounds. This decision was expected earlier this year but has yet to be announced.

The suspects were arrested after the UK suspended the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Constitution in August 2009 and imposed direct rule due to a commission of inquiry that revealed systemic corruption in the territory. Much of the corruption involved bribery from overseas developers seeking favourable terms

$1.7m recovered from crackdown on revenue offences

The TCI Border Force has recovered an additional $1,389,347.71 in unpaid customs duties and fees from five major importers between September 2024 and January 2025. This latest recovery brings the total amount collected through compliance checks to $1,752,539.11 between May 2024 and February 2025, the department reported on Thursday, February 27.

The department’s strengthened compliance measures seek to ensure the accurate collection of customs duties, prevent fraudulent activities such as undervaluation or misclassification, and create a fair-trading environment for legitimate businesses. The move is an attempt to the Turks and Caicos Islands’ economy from unfair competition and revenue losses, a statement from the government stated.

Director General, Emilio Seymour reaffirmed Border Force’s commitment to maintaining trade integrity, saying: “Recent intensified compliance checks have generated significant financial gains for the Turks and Caicos Islands, reinforcing the absolute necessity of adhering to customs regulations.

“As Border Force continues its focus on transparency and accountability, we call on all commercial importers to recognise compliance not just as a legal requirement, but as an investment in a secure and prosperous future for trade in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The public is reminded that submitting false declarations to Border Force when importing goods can lead to serious consequences. In addition to owing unpaid duties and overpayments, importers risk

having their goods seized, facing fines of up to $20,000, and even imprisonment for up to two years. These penalties apply to both paper and electronic submissions.

Additionally, the public is cautioned that bringing in controlled substances, firearms, offensive weapons, indecent materials, or certain plant, food, or animal products can result in fines of up to $50,000 and/or a prison sentence.

The department said they are committed to working closely with customs brokers and importers to promote compliance and transparency. Stating that through training initiatives and resource investments, they aim to support businesses in understanding and meeting their obligations, reducing disruptions, and enhancing the efficiency of customs procedures.

for government land and approval for commercial development.

A 2009 report from the Commission of Inquiry highlighted “clear signs of political amorality and immaturity and of general administrative incompetence.”

The charges against the defendants were first filed in 2011, and after extensive hearings, it was determined that the trial would proceed without a jury, given its complexity. This trial began on December 8, 2015. Following the death of the trial judge, the late Paul

Harrison, a retrial was ordered, to be divided into two parts.

The second part of that retrial is currently underway and will decide whether the former Premier, who initially tried to escape prosecution by fleeing to Brazil, will face prison time for his alleged misconduct in public office.

Misick was arrested in Brazil in 2012 and later deported back to the Turks and Caicos Islands, where he stands trial under strict bail conditions that restrict his movements.

Former Shore Club employee faces 53 financial charges in Providenciales court

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Former Wedding Coordinator for the Shore Club Hotel and Resort, Lofton Morley Jr., 37, faced a Providenciales court on February 25th, 2025, to answer to a staggering 53 charges of financial offences.

The case, which stems from a criminal complaint filed by the Hartling Group in August 2022, has been adjourned to April 4th, 2025, for a sufficiency hearing.

Morley Jr is accused of 28 counts of Theft of a Chose in Action and 25 counts of Use of Criminal Property, charges that have been brought forth following a thorough investigation by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) Financial Crime Unit.

The gravity of the situation is underscored by the substantial $100,000 bail under which Morley

Jr has been released, with strict conditions imposed by the court.

These conditions include the surrender of all travel documents, a prohibition on leaving the country without explicit court permission, and mandatory reporting to the Chalk Sound Police Station at designated times and dates.

The initial complaint, lodged over two and a half years ago, triggered an in-depth probe into the alleged financial irregularities.

According to a Police statement, the RTCIPF Financial Crime Unit’s investigation culminated in the charges being formally laid against Morley Jr, who is being represented by Attorneys of F Chambers Law Firm in Providenciales.

The adjournment to April 4th now puts the community on edge, as they await the Sufficiency Hearing, where the court will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial.

Former Premier Michael Misick, former Government Minister Mc Allister Hanchell and Attorney-at-law Thomas Chalmers Misick

TCIG to invest a $49m in armed forces amid rising crime

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In response to a concerning surge in homicides, violent crime, and gang-related activities, the government of the Turks and Caicos Islands has announced a substantial financial commitment to bolster the territory’s armed forces.

During the Throne Speech delivered on February 21st, 2025, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, outlined a comprehensive strategy to combat crime on

all fronts, with a primary focus on investing heavily in law enforcement.

The government’s proposed budget includes a staggering $49m investment in the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force.

This financial injection will facilitate the creation of 75 new positions within the force and provide additional support for the TCI Regiment.

Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam emphasised the critical importance of this investment, stating, “Investing in building capability

15-year-old admits to five burglaries in Blue Hills

A 15-year-old young man from Wheeland, Blue Hills, has pleaded guilty to a series of break-ins in his community and has been placed on bail until sentencing.

The youth appeared before a Magistrate last Friday, February 21, charged with five counts of burglary concerning burglaries in the Belglades Garden area of Blue Hills.

The teenager pleaded guilty

to all charges and was granted bail of $5,000, with one surety.

As part of his bail conditions, he must reside with a close relative and adhere to a curfew from 8 pm to 6 am.

The minor was arrested on February 14, following an investigation by police officers.

He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on March 31.

Snake Hill gunshot victim in stable condition

A Haitian man is lucky to be alive after suffering gunshot wounds so severe, it led to 911 calls alerting police of a dead man in a car.

Last Saturday, February 22, police were called out to what they were told was the scene of another murder in Providenciales, this time at Snake Hill in Blue Hills.

At about 3 pm, police officers and medical personnel rushed to the scene after several frantic calls were made to the police dispatch. When they arrived on the scene, they discovered a vehicle in the bushes.

Upon closer inspection, a man was found lying motionless

across our law enforcement agencies is essential for ensuring public safety, enhancing operational effectiveness, and fostering community trust.

“This includes funding for tactical training programmes, modern technology, data-driven policing and improved infrastructure to equip our officers with the skills and tools needed to confront and address the challenges we face.”

The government’s strategy extends beyond increasing manpower and training.

In this vein, plans are underway to construct a high-security remand centre and a dedicated marina for the Police and Regiment in Grand Turk.

Furthermore, the government intends to enhance marine and drone support, expand CCTV surveillance, and implement wider surveillance measures.

These initiatives reflect a multi-

faceted approach to addressing crime and enhancing security throughout the islands.

The Governor acknowledged the severity of the situation, expressing her concern about the rise in criminal activity. “Honourable members, all of us are concerned about the increase in criminal activities, particularly serious and violent crime. We grieve with those who have been affected and pray for their comfort,” she stated.

INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL COLLABORATION

She also noted that the government has sought and received assistance from the UK and other Caribbean nations to strengthen its response, including intensifying law enforcement presence, deploying additional armed officers, undertaking joint operations with regional partners, and developing

maritime domain awareness.

In addition to the investment in the police force, the government is also focusing on strengthening the Border Force to combat illegal immigration, which the Governor stated has “cost us dearly.”

The Border Force will receive additional manpower and resources, and the use of maritime surveillance systems, such as drones and radar, will be expanded.

The Governor further revealed that the government is also collaborating with regional partners and the United States and introducing stricter immigration policies and enforcement.

To further streamline immigration processes, an Immigration Court System will be introduced to facilitate the deportation of illegal immigrants, and ports of entry will be fortified with technology to detect drugs and forged documents.

inside the car, bleeding from what appeared to be a gunshot wound.

The 46-year-old man was immediately transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre for treatment. Authorities say the man is now in a stable condition.

They stated that the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, calling on anyone with information 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.

Residents are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information.

Man arrested trying to smuggle contraband hidden in food into HM

A 22-year-old man is in police custody for attempting to smuggle prohibited articles into His Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk last weekend.

Authorities reported that the incident occurred last Sunday, February 23, when during a visit to HMP, prison officers had cause to search the items brought in by the suspect. The search revealed the prohibited items.

The man was detained after

Prison

checks revealed contraband hidden inside food destined for an inmate.

Police were called in and the man was arrested.

Authorities are reminding visitors that under the Prisons Ordinance—Section 11 (Possession or introduction of prohibited articles), smugglers of prohibited items into prison will be fined and/or face imprisonment upon conviction.

Section 11 states: “Any person

who (d) takes any prohibited article to or from any prisoner, whether such prisoner is in prison or in custody outside a prison; (e) deposits any prohibited article in any place, whether in a prison or outside a prison, with the intent that it shall come into the possession of a prisoner, commits an offence and is liable upon summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term of 2 years, or to both.”

His Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk

TCI regiment officers and officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force during a joint operation in Five Cays

“The apple does not fall far from the tree”

Be cautious about who you associate with

The concept of the proverb “The Apple does not fall from the tree” is so important and relevant in our lives. This saying indicates or explains how individuals inherit their traits and behaviours from their parents and grandparents.

Be cautious about who you associate with. Do not be blinded by love, emotions, money and physical appearances. In your personal life, do your research and investigate the background of that individual before you commit to marriage or have a child with someone. Likewise in the recruitment of individuals, do a thorough background check on them. Even from a country point of view, we must be careful who

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.

we allow in our country to live among us because the apple does not fall far from the tree.

THE APPLE DOES NOT FALL FAR FROM THE TREE

I know many of us nowadays do not consider the background of individuals but in former days,

those parents and grandparents wanted to know who our parents were. You see if one of your parents was promiscuous, it is highly possible that you may become promiscuous too. If one of your parents was abusive, you may become abusive too. If your parents are kind and loving, you

too may be kind and loving.

Many times, people behave the way they behave because of the environment and what they inherited from their parents. Some people really want to be good and try to behave differently but they cannot help themselves because of what was passed onto them from generation to generation.

This is why it is very important for us as parents to do the right thing. There is a true saying that you reap what you sow. I know it sounds contrary to the point that apples do not fall far from the tree.

A CHANGE CAN HAPPEN

Do not be discouraged but you should be cautious. Individuals

must recognize that they are acting just like the way their parents and their grandparents behaved. If it is negative behaviour, then you should seek help to reverse that behaviour through prayer, counselling and deliverance. Generation curses are real and can be broken. If you do not acknowledge the issue and seek assistance, these behaviours may perpetuate across generations.

CONCLUSION

Sometimes the warning signs are present but overlooked. We also think after a while, the behaviour will go away. Do not get involved with anyone thinking their behaviour will magically disappear. The behaviours will go away if you get help.

The only one worthy enough

Revelation 5:11 -12 John records what he saw and heard when he was transported to heaven - Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, 12saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” This song echoes throughout heaven, affirming that Jesus alone is deserving of worship. Yet, in our daily lives, we often find our hearts drawn to lesser things—career advancement, vacations, things, political affiliations, wealth, or

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.

personal success. The question every person must answer is this:

“Who or what holds the highest place in my life?”

WHAT

DOES IT MEAN TO BE “WORTHY”?

To be “worthy” means to possess value, authority, and honor that demand recognition. In Revelation

5, no one in heaven or earth is found worthy to open the scroll that reveals what the future will be except Jesus (Revelation 5:45). Why? Because He alone accomplished what no one else could—the redemption and reconciliation of humanity through His death and resurrection. Jesus’ worthiness was not based on military might or social influence but on the price He paid for freedom from the bondage of sin and evil. The Lamb of God, slain for the sins of the world, triumphed over sin and death, making Him the only one truly deserving of our worship.

WHAT ARE WE WORSHIPING INSTEAD?

The reality is that everyone worships something. Worship is not just about singing songs or attending religious services—it is about what we prioritize, what

captures our hearts, and what defines our identity. For some, it is career success.

Climbing the corporate ladder, gaining influence, and achieving financial stability become the driving forces of life. For others, it is political allegiance. Their hope and devotion are placed in leaders, policies, or ideologies rather than in Christ’s eternal kingdom. Many pursue material gain, believing financial security will bring peace. Others chase social status, seeking validation from peers and online followers rather than from God. Even good things— family, relationships, personal dreams—can become idols when they take the place that belongs to Jesus alone.

WHY JESUS ALONE IS WORTHY

Unlike influence, money, or social mobility, Jesus’ worth is eternal and

unchanging. The Bible describes Him as:

• The Lamb who was slain (Revelation 5:6)—He sacrificed Himself so we could be reconciled to God.

• The King who reigns forever (Revelation 11:15)—His kingdom has no end, while earthly powers fade.

• The One who satisfies our souls (John 6:35)—No possession or achievement can fill the emptiness only He can satisfy. The things we chase in this life will ultimately fail us—careers end, health declines, money loses value, leaders disappoint. But Jesus remains the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

A CALL TO WORSHIP

RIGHTLY

Take a moment to reflect: What holds first place in your heart? Does Jesus have your full devotion, or has something else taken His rightful place? True worship is not just about words but about a life surrendered to Christ. When we recognize that Jesus alone is worthy, our priorities shift. We stop chasing empty things and find our ultimate purpose and fulfillment in Him. So, who—or what—will you worship today?

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Education Week 2025 seeks to ‘reimagine education for better futures’

The Ministry of Education kicks off education week this Sunday, March 2, with ecumenical services in Grand Turk, Providenciales and North and Middle Caicos.

This year’s observances are being held under the theme ‘Reimagining Education for Better Futures’, from March 2 to 7.

Residents are invited to attend church services at the Salem Baptist Church on Grand Turk; Mount Lebanon Baptist Church in North and Middle Caicos, and at the Abundant Life Ministries International in

Providenciales. The service on South Caicos will take place at 9:30 am on Monday, March 3, at the New Testament Church of God.

“We invite the various island communities to support our teachers, students and the department/ministry of education through their participation in the ecumenical services and activities throughout the week,” a statement from the ministry invited.

On Monday, two national events will be held. In the morning, there will be the second annual local

studies competition for primary schools to be held at the Salvation Army’s Brighter Futures Centre between 10 am and 3 pm.

In the afternoon there will be the Education Symposium, scheduled to begin at 6 pm, also at the Salvation Army’s Brighter Futures Centre.

The symposium will address the importance of parental involvement in the success of students in school.

The ministry noted that this topic is crucial to any discussion or activities that can be implemented to reimagine education for better futures.

On Tuesday evening, March 4, once again at the Salvation Army’s Brighter Futures Centre, the second annual Local Studies Competition for high schools will be held.

During the week, there will be different activities at various schools, public and private, throughout the territory.

On Wednesday and Thursday, the ministry will team up with Fortis TCI, at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex for the 13th annual Science and Technology Fair. Four competitions will highlight

the resilience, intelligence and potential of students: a debate between high schools, a primary school quiz competition, a poster competition, and the popular science project.

Friday, March 7, will be observed as Teacher’s Day. “Collectively, we will celebrate our teachers and the work they do to chart a path to better futures for our children. We invite everyone to reach out to a teacher or the teachers who are making or have made a positive impact on your development,” the ministry urged.

Eight uncomfortable but healthy questions for your partner

Asking uncomfortable but healthy questions is a crucial tool for growth. It can be daunting, but these questions often cut through the surface and challenge us to confront things we may not want to face. They promote honesty, transparency, and deeper understanding. By asking these tough questions, we invite vulnerability into conversations, which in turn fosters more meaningful connections.

Whether it’s about difficult topics at work or introspective questions about ourselves, addressing them head-on leads to self-awareness and personal development.

However, it’s not just about asking any tough question—it’s about doing so with care and respect. Healthy discomfort encourages growth without pushing others too far. It’s the difference between asking a question that opens up dialogue and one that shuts it down. When asked with the right intention and mindset, these questions can help uncover new perspectives, solve problems, and build stronger relationships. It’s the kind of courage that leads to real change, both within ourselves and the person we are with.

I’m not getting paid for this, but still, I’m handing out these priceless nuggets of wisdom for free... all because I genuinely

love ya!

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

1. “WHAT DO I STILL NOT UNDERSTAND ABOUT YOU?”

It’s like the “You vs. Me: The Sequel” of relationships. This question keeps you from thinking you’ve got your partner all figured out—spoiler alert: you don’t! People change, evolve, and have layers. This question keeps you on your toes, encouraging growth in understanding. Plus, it’s a good way to avoid saying “I know you better than you know yourself,” which is definitely a no-go zone.

2. “IS THERE SOMETHING I DO THAT HURTS YOU?”

This is your emotional first-aid kit, ready to fix anything you’ve unknowingly broken. It’s easy to step on toes—sometimes literally (accidentally, of course!). But this question ensures that if you’ve unintentionally caused some emotional damage, you can address it before it becomes

a full-blown emotional bruising. It’s basically a free pass to be a better human and partner!

3. “WHAT SMALL THINGS DO I DO THAT MAKE YOU FEEL LOVED THE MOST?”

This is the “little things matter” reminder. It’s not always the grand gestures like buying a yacht (unless that’s your thing, no judgment). Sometimes it’s just remembering to text “good morning” or making the perfect cup of coffee. Knowing the little things that make your partner feel loved helps you become their personal love ninja— quietly swooping in with all the right moves at just the right time.

4. “WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION OF ME AND HOW HAS THAT CHANGED?”

This is the “let’s take a trip down memory lane” moment— except without the awkward haircuts and questionable fashion choices. Reflecting on

how your partner’s perception of you has changed helps you understand how far you’ve come together. It’s kind of like looking at a before-and-after photo of a workout routine, but instead of abs, it’s trust and love that have grown.

5. “IS THERE ANYTHING ABOUT OUR RELATIONSHIP YOU’D LIKE TO CHANGE?”

Time for a little relationship “renovation”! This question shows you’re open to making adjustments, whether it’s communication, date nights, or even just agreeing on what to watch on Netflix. Relationships are like cars—you don’t just let them coast without regular tuneups. So, ask this to avoid the emotional equivalent of a “check engine” light coming on later!

6. “WHAT PART OF OUR RELATIONSHIP DO YOU STILL FIND CHALLENGING?”

Every relationship has its “speed bumps”—maybe it’s someone’s weird obsession with snacks at 2 AM or that one person’s inability to fold towels properly. This question helps surface those annoying quirks before they turn into big things. It’s basically the relationship version of finding the weak spot and fixing it before you run out of duct tape.

7. “IS THERE SOMETHING YOU’D LIKE TO TELL ME BUT HAVEN’T KNOWN HOW?”

Sometimes, there’s a secret, like your partner wants to tell you they hate the way you sing in the shower but they don’t know how to break it to you. This question lets you dive into unspoken truths without the drama. It clears up misunderstandings and gives your partner the chance to confess all those little things they’ve been holding back, whether it’s “I need more space” or “I secretly love the way you dance, even if you think you’re terrible at it.”

8. HOW CAN I LOVE YOU BETTER?”

Think of this like relationship customer service: You’re asking for feedback to improve. We all have unique needs, so why not ask your partner how they want to be loved? It’s like ordering pizza—you don’t want to accidentally get anchovies if they really just wanted extra cheese. This question ensures you’re hitting all the right notes when it comes to love, care, and affection.

Now go forth and make babies. Share your opinions if you think these can help you and your relationship. Daviid.l2 on Instagram.

TCI unveils inaugural Fashion Week

The Turks and Caicos officially announced its first-ever Fashion Week, an initiative aiming to position the territory as a future global fashion destination. The launch of Fashion Week, set to culminate in a spectacular fashion show on 1st March, was celebrated during a press conference at the Palms Resort.

Founder Alicia Swann said that she strongly believes, “that Turks and Caicos has absolutely everything that we need to be the next major fashion capital of the world. We have the people, we have the resources once we pull them together, we have the ambiance, we have the natural beauty.”

The theme for the inaugural event is ‘Love fashion and island artistry,’ and it is geared to showcase both local and international designers while providing a platform for aspiring models.

Members of the government, including Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon Rachel Taylor, and Minister of Tourism, Hon Zhavargo Jolly, pledged government support to the event. Minister Taylor pledged the Ministry of Culture’s support, “in relation to expanding the whole notion of developing the creatives in the Turks and Caicos,” while Minister Jolly noted, “As the Minister of Tourism, we’d love to see or encourage more young people to follow the path that you

follow and trail blaze as you kick these doors open and leave it open for them.”

The event has attracted significant attention, with Selena Grant, brand ambassador for Fashion Week Turks and Caicos, describing it as “a historic moment” that is “not just about showcasing designs, it’s about storytelling, it’s about celebrating culture, it’s about

Iconic Infiniti Bar relaunches at Grace Bay Resorts with elevated

The Grace Bay Resorts has unveiled the redesigned Infiniti Bar, long known as the Caribbean’s longest bar and one of the Turks and Caicos’ premier sunsetviewing destinations.

The iconic waterfront venue has been re-imagined by an Architectural Digest 100 architect from the Younger firm, adding a sophisticated wine cellar that promises to elevate the island’s mixology and wine culture.

“It’s a place where everybody in Turks and Caicos comes and one of the places to see the greatest sunsets of these beautiful by nature islands,” co-founder, COO and Principal of Grace Bay Resorts, Nikheel Advani stated during the launch event.

The bar’s refurbishment represents a symbolic turning point for tourism in the region. “The Covid brought around a lot of feelings of challenge and stress,

experience

but Turks and Caicos has bounced back stronger than ever,” Nikheel explained. “The Infinity Bar is a great example of how you can take an older bar and rejuvenate it and really enjoy the community in this bar, in the Turks and Caicos.”

At the heart of this transformation is the new wine cellar, curated by Hakeem Lloyd, the resort’s sommelier for the past 10 months. “We just want to create an atmosphere and create a brand above everybody else,” Lloyd said of his vision. “We try to put wines from all over the world here. Some iconic and some that obviously will be a new addition for people to appreciate.”

For Nikheel, who has been with the property for 21 years, the relaunch represents more than just a physical renovation. “I’m very proud to see the team grow and excel and really shine,” he shared, noting the significance of this

giving us a platform for us to be on the global fashion map.”

Beyond the runway shows, Fashion Week TCI represents a broader strategic vision for the islands’ creative economy.

Dr Karine Melissa, an event producer from Miami, explained the approach: “One of the things that Alicia and I spoke about was if we’re going to do this, the island

has to be ready for it. That means we have to cultivate a people that is ready to receive all of this attention that is about to come to the island.”

To ensure sustainability, organisers have partnered with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College to develop fashion education programmes. “For the beginning of the new academic year,

it will be September 2025,” Swann confirmed regarding the implementation timeline for these educational initiatives.

The fashion shows will feature international participation alongside local talent. “We have editors from Cosmopolitan Magazine, Fashion Digest, and InStyle Magazine coming to cover myself producing the fashion show here and everything on the island,” Dr Melissa announced.

Notable participants include Nickie New, founder of Curls Dynasty and Forbes top 100 black entrepreneur, and Jessyka Castillo, who will be launching her new swimwear line at the event.

The initiative will also support charitable causes, with portions of proceeds from a silent auction being donated to the Red Cross. Additionally, students from the Edward Gartland Youth Center will present their designs on the runway. Local designers receiving exposure through the event include ComTCI, shopbeche Turks & Caicos Swimwear, Jermel Fashions, Ms Anya Willique, Wellington Collection, Nikki’s Trinkets, Lebeadaime Jewelry, and Mythology, among others.

Organisers have declared their intention to make this an annual event, with Swann boldly predicting: “Turks and Caicos in the next five years will be the top fashion and arts destination in the world.”

Hon Rachel Taylor and Hon Zhavargo Jolly, alongside with Selena Grant cut the symbolic ribbon at the launch of the event

Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Co-founder of Gracebay Resorts Nikheel Advani and the resort’s sommelier, in Infiniti’s bar new wine cellar, Hakeem Lloyd

wine

islands.

Govt unveils ambitious 20-project infrastructure plan to transform TCI by 2040

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands government has unveiled a sweeping development plan that envisions the nation’s transformation into a prosperous and highly developed country by 2040.

Central to this vision is a massive infrastructure overhaul, featuring 20 major projects aimed at accommodating rapid tourism growth, enhancing public services, and propelling the islands into a new era of progress.

HE Governor DanielSelvaratnam declared that, “20 major projects have been identified” to accommodate the rapid expansion in tourism, give residents better infrastructure and enhance overall development.

She made this disclosure during her Throne Speech delivered at the opening of Parliament on February 21st, 2025.

This bold initiative signals the government’s commitment to invest heavily in the nation’s foundation, with a particular focus

on transportation and maritime infrastructure.

A flurry of airport projects including the completion of the Howard Hamilton International Airport, alongside upgrades to the South Caicos, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, and Salt Cay airports highlights the plan’s emphasis on connectivity and accessibility.

These improvements are designed to “better serve the needs of our people and support the development agenda,” ensuring seamless travel and enhanced economic opportunities across the archipelago.

Maritime infrastructure is also set for a dramatic transformation.

According to the Government, ongoing upgrades to the Providenciales South Dock Port will be completed, while a new public marina will be constructed to support local water sports, vendors, and mariners.

Further upgrades are planned for the Bellfield Landing Port and Marina and the South Caicos Cedar

Park & Conch Ground Marina.

Coupled with this, the Grand Turk Commercial Port will be redeveloped to handle both cargo and cruise ships, positioning the island for increased trade and tourism.

The government’s vision extends to land-based transportation as well.

To this end, the Millennium Highway will be redeveloped into a four-lane dual-carriageway, and the Leeward Highway will undergo a similar transformation.

In an effort to ease traffic congestion and improve emergency response, a series of parallel roads to Leeward Highway will be developed.

A new “Caicos Turnpike” will connect Providenciales to South Caicos, and a traffic light system will be installed in Providenciales to regulate traffic flow and enhance safety.

Acknowledging the magnitude of the task, Governor DanielSelvaratnam emphasised the need for efficient execution.

She said: “Mr Speaker, the to-do list is long, so we have to prepare ourselves to deliver the projects within budget and on time.” To achieve this, the government will “review the procurement and planning procedures” and “streamline the approvals process for major infrastructure projects, and large-scale private development.”

These measures aim to “cut project delays and give assurances to investors who are putting millions in our economy and the public.”

Opposition leader urges all parliamentarians to work in the best interests of TCI

– promises ‘meaningful dialogue and collaboration’

BY DELANA ISLES

“I will not stand in the way of the PNP’s initiatives aimed at delivering what the people voted for, their voice is a clarion call for what they consider progress to be for them and we must respect it. I will respect,” Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Edwin Astwood pronounced during his address at last week’s swearing-in ceremony.

That event saw 19 elected officials being sworn into the newly renamed Parliament at an official ceremony hosted in Grand Turk on February 21. Astwood said he is firm in his resolve to represent those who voted for him and the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) in Parliament.

“I will continue to be their fierce advocate representing their

interests with every fibre of my being. Their hopes and dreams matter, and I will continue to ensure that they will not be overlooked.”

He urged that as leaders they must all remember that with power

comes great responsibility: “It is essential that wield our influence with humility and respect for one another and for the very citizens we serve.”

Astwood called on all 19 elected

officials to empower each other to forge an environment of respect where differing opinions are valued and collaboration is the norm.

“In doing so, we can create a parliament where that truly reflects the strength of our democracy,” he encouraged.

Astwood noted: “As leader of the opposition, I am not here to merely critique or oppose, but to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration. I will continue to do and say as I did before, and you all know it, if it’s good for the people I will be first to support it. This has and always will be my stance.”

The opposition leader stated that the collective needs of the citizens will always come first before political divisions. “Together let us shatter barriers, shatter doubt and shatter divisions,” he encouraged.

“In this new parliament session, I call on each of you to embody courage, passion, and purpose. Let us approach our work with open hearts and a determined spirit. Let us remember that we are here to serve, we are here to uplift, and we

are here to inspire.”

He further called on parliamentarians to represent their constituencies in honouring the will of the people.

In conclusion, he sounded his commitment to his supporters: “To my people of Grand Turk South and Salt Cay and to the people of the Bight and to all our supporters and to all our supporters and wellwishers throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands, my commitment to you is unwavering. I will stand strong in the face of challenges, I will be relentless in the pursuit of justice, prosperity and equality for all.

“We will be guardians of your hope, the protectors of your dreams and the catalyst for the change you deserve,” Astwood promised.

Astwood called on all parliamentarians, irrespective of side, to be stewards of all of the people.

Joining Astwood in Parliament will be Honourable Audric Skippings, elected representative of the Bight constituency.

Ongoing upgrades to the Providenciales South Dock Port

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood

Premier urges all to work in the interests of the people as Parliamentarians sworn-in

BY DELANA ISLES

The newly sworn-in government and opposition members gathered in the nation’s capital last week Friday to herald in a new era of governance, one the Premier believes is a positive step towards self-determination for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Addressing those gathered at Parade Grounds in Grand Turk on February 21, Premier the Hon Charles Washington Misick called for calm, respect and cooperation from the new 19 member strong parliament, appealing that now that the election is over, members should allow their better angels to guide them as they work in the interests of the whole of TCI.

“With this swearing-in of 19 elected members of parliament, we are one step closer to a full pledge fully self-governing democracy.

Honourable members, each of you, each of us have been chosen by the people to be their voice and advocate.”

He noted that the people have high expectations “that we will carry out our duties with diligence, dedication and integrity.”

He said they expect that members will always make decisions that are in the best

interests of the Turks and Caicos Islands. “As your premier I submit myself as a servant of the people who will serve with humility and grace. Above all I will always be a prudent and responsible steward of the affairs of this country.”

The Premier called on all members to passionately debate the issues of the country without being abusive or insulting, representing the highest ideals of the Turks and Caicos Islands, while never forgetting why they are in Parliament.

“We may be small, but

TCI Search and Rescue Task Force receives urban search and rescue training

Twenty-one participants from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, TCI Fire and Rescue and TCI Regiment were trained in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) this week (24th-28th February), in Providenciales.

This cross-functional collaboration is a partnership between the Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies (DDME), TCI Domestic Fire & Rescue and the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

The week of training will focus on various aspects of USAR, including basic skills, Shoering techniques, rescue tools, and triage. Multiple realistic scenarios will be used to test the coordinated actions of the task force and enhance their ability to protect the public in a search and rescue event.

As outlined in the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) emergency response mechanism, Jamaica is the sub-regional focal point for the

North-Western sub-region which includes the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The training will be facilitated by seasoned professionals from The Jamaica Fire Brigade, Sgt Christopher Beason and District Officers Richard Forte, Damian Lloyd and Rowan Williams

“Once this training concludes, successful participants will form a National Task Force that will lead during Search and Rescue incidents. We hope that this collaboration will also form a long-lasting relationship between The Turks & Caicos Islands and The Jamaica Fire Brigade - an enhanced relationship with countries in the region is crucial to address shared challenges, share resources and capitalise on mutual strengths.” Aubrey Felix, Fire Service Operations and Training Manager- TCI Fire and Rescue

“The Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies (DDME) is proud to provide

our example of a functioning democracy is supersized,” the Premier intoned, thanking the staff of Parliament, the elections commission, election workers, the police and all others who were engaged in pulling off the successful February 7 general election.

“Most election campaigns are tough, and this one was no different. In the cut and thrust of most political contest, sometimes things are said that are hurtful and regretful when things become calmer.

“Despite the harsh words, we had a very peaceful election. We showed the world that the Turks and Caicos Islands is a democratic country in which our people are the power brokers. So, I thank our people who exercised their right to vote and send a strong message that they agree with policies and programmes of my government.”

“We promise not to let you down,” Misick asserted, encouraging residents to pick up a copy of the party’s citizen’s contract 2.0, which provides details of the policies and plans for

his government’s second term in office.

“We want you to join us on the journey as we deliver for you. This is the people’s house, and I hope we foster partnership, consensus building and cooperation in the interests of our citizens.

“Today, I stretch forth my hands to the Leader of the Opposition for us to work together to advance and support the people’s agenda,” Premier Misick stated.

He said the focus of his government is clear, “to expand and diversify the economy, improve healthcare delivery across all islands, reduce crime and create safe communities, empower the youth and give them a voice, create job opportunities for all our people, take care of the most vulnerable, build last infrastructure, improve public service efficiency, improve communication and accountability.”

“My government will fast track major infrastructure projects, we will fix the issue plaguing the healthcare system, will improve service delivery with digitalization and expand the GDP (gross domestic product), increase tourism revenues to over $300 million within this term,” Misick said of his government’s plan for the next five years.

support during this week of vital training. Now more than ever, we see the need for expertly trained persons to carry out search and rescue efforts in times of emergencies and disasters. This training will ensure that responders are equipped to act with precision,

improved coordination and work as a team to handle critical situations that will ultimately save lives,”, Deputy Director- DDME, Mr Kevern De Bellott said.

The training session began on 24 February 2025, with a pre-test to determine the current knowledge of

participants and identify areas for improvement. This approach will ensure that all participants receive relevant training to improve their existing skills and learn new techniques. Training will conclude on 28 February 2025, with a posttest and final simulation.

The Premier, Hon Charles Washington Missick and Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood were among those sworn in

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), TCI Fire and Rescue and TCI Regiment during a training exercise

TCI’s Next Top Model recruitment closes, rigorous training next

The young people of the TCI are seizing the opportunity to become the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Next Top Model, with scores of young men and women signing up for the highly anticipated competition which kicks off this May.

Executive Producer Courtney Robinson said the Top Model Contest is TCI’s preeminent event for fashion, beauty, arts, and entertainment.

With over 25 aspiring models travelling to Providenciales from Grand Turk, South Caicos, and North Caicos hoping to make the cut, Robinson said the competition will be fiercer than ever. And for the first time, the co-ed format is bringing more male models into the mix, turning up the heat and intensifying the show.

Robinson said: “We were blown away by the turnout this year. With more guys than ever before, this year’s competition is shaping up to be our most dynamic yet.”

He said over the years the competition has had a great array of potential talent, and this year is no different. “Our hope is that persons are more eager and determined to take on training for the high-impact world of fashion modelling.”

Following an extensive casting process, the selected participants were introduced to the TCI Top Model programme and given insight into the business of fashion modelling. For six weeks, they will engage in a comprehensive training program designed to prepare

them not only for the competition but for life beyond the runway.

Workshops will focus on grooming and presentation, interviewing and networking skills, fitness and nutrition, catwalk and showroom modelling, still photography and video shoots.

Robinson emphasised the significance of this transformation:

“TCI Top Model is more than a showcase—it is a journey of growth and refinement. We are moulding industry-ready models who embody confidence, poise, and professionalism. Through a

Youth mental health targeted in new series by Dept. of Behavioural Health Services

This month, the Department of Behavioural Health Services launched the first session of its bridge series aimed at connecting psychology to the community, titled ‘Supporting Children’s Mental Health & Wellbeing: An Introduction to Child and Adolescent Psychiatry’.

Dr Annalease Richards, a double board-certified psychiatrist, led the session, bringing together professionals working with youth, including guidance counsellors, youth affairs staff, and social workers. The session’s success extended beyond the scheduled hour, sparking in-depth discussions about the mental health challenges facing young people in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Recent statistics highlight that one in five children and adolescents face mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and

behavioural issues, with suicide being the second leading cause of death among adolescents globally.

During the session, Dr. Richards emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach to address these challenges.

Dr Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, alongside Dr Jadetra Ingraham and Tiara McTaire, stressed the need for initiatives like the bridge series to equip professionals with the tools to assess and treat mild to moderate mental health concerns, with severe cases referred to specialised care. The department said it remains committed to enhancing resources, training, and support to improve youth mental health outcomes.

Key takeaways from the session included the importance of early intervention and the critical role trauma plays in shaping children’s

mental health. Dr. Richards called for increased investment in sustainable mental health initiatives to support children and families.

As part of the session’s outcomes, a screener packet with training for youth professionals will be issued to improve the identification and intervention of mental health concerns. The department has also conducted MHGAP training for medical providers to equip them with the necessary tools to handle severe youth mental health crises.

The department noted that the bridge series continues to foster collaboration and increase access to mental health resources. They are urging stakeholders, including government partners, to prioritise investment in youth mental health services, recognising its long-term impact on the community.

carefully curated training program led by esteemed experts in their respective fields, we are equipping our participants with the skills, discipline, and insight necessary to thrive in the global fashion industry. Through our guidance and support, coupled with their determination,

the world is theirs for the taking, and we are here to ensure they seize every opportunity.”

The defining moment will arrive on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the highly anticipated 2025 TCI Top Model Contest—En Vogue, hosted at Brayton Hall in Providenciales.

Dr Annalease Richards

Young men and young women showed up in their numbers to vie for the top modelling spots (submitted photo)

Ports Authority Chair Tueton Williams and staff this week joined the South Caicos community to welcome the first ocean shipping freight from South Florida to South Caicos by King Ocean Services, with Al Services Limited as their agent (TCIG photo)

South Caicos welcomes first direct ocean freight from Florida

This week saw an exciting development in South Caicos, the commencement of the first direct

Second Saharan dust surge heading to Caribbean islands

A new wave of Saharan dust is making its way across the Atlantic toward the Caribbean, with meteorological services across some islands issuing advisories about reduced air quality.

Antiguan meteorologist Dale Destin warns that “the Saharan dust season, which officially began in mid-February, is now bringing the second notable surge of the year to Antigua and Barbuda.”

The dust cloud was expected to arrive in Antigua on Wednesday afternoon, “reducing air quality to moderate levels due to elevated concentrations of particulate matter,” according to Destin. Effects are likely to continue for several days. The air quality is expected to remain reduced “through at least early next week with a break on Saturday. While the health risk remains low for most people, those who are unusually sensitive—such as individuals with asthma and other respiratory conditions— should take precautions and stay informed with the latest air quality updates,” Destin said.

ocean freight service from Port Everglades in Florida, USA to South Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands.

Residents joined the Port Authority staff for the inaugural ceremony on the family island on Tuesday, February 24. In attendance was the newly swornin member of parliament for the islands, Hon Tamell Seymour.

Speaking at the opening ceremony was Tueton Williams, Chairman of the Ports Authority.

“Today, I am honoured to attend the King Ocean Commemoration of the Inaugural Direct Ocean Freight Service from Port Everglades, Florida, to South Caicos. This new route is a game-changer for South Caicos, strengthening our supply chain and fuelling economic growth. A huge thank you to King Ocean and AL Service for making this a reality.”

The chairman reaffirmed the port authority’s commitment to modernizing and enhancing all

ports across the TCI, stating:

“Our ports are the true lifeline of our economy, and we are actively working to stay ahead of the development curve, especially in South Caicos.”

He promised that the next three months are exciting times for the department, “we’ve been cooking, and we can’t wait to showcase what we’ve been working on.”

The bi-weekly service will provide reliable shipping options, expanding the company’s coverage

in the Caribbean.

The inaugural freight sailed from Port Everglades on Friday, February 21, and arrived in South Caicos this past Tuesday. The new service will sail every other Friday afternoon from the US to TCI.

The new route offers full container load (FCL) such as dry, refrigerated, and flatracks; full container load (LCL) such as dry and refrigerated; as well as breakbulk and vehicles.

Cora Richardson-Hodge elected as first female Premier of Anguilla

Lawyer and legislature Cora Richardson-Hodge was scheduled to be sworn in on Thursday as the first female premier of Anguilla.

Richardson-Hodge’s Anguilla United Front romped to a convincing victory winning eight of the 11 seats following Wednesday’s general elections.

Outgoing Premier Dr Ellis Webster, increased his margin in District 1, but most of the candidates of his Auguilla Progressive Movement lost grounds.

The AUF won four of the seven district seats, and all four of the islandwide contests.

In Anguilla voters have five votes – one for their district candidates, and four others, which is tallied from all the districts.

The AUF made a clean sweep of the four at large seats, with the biggest winner of the night being Kyle Hodge.

It will be the second term for Hodge, who had won as a rookie five years ago with the APM. But he left the government mid-term in a protest against its tax policies.

Hodge appeared to ride on a cross party appeal to be the night’s biggest winners. He crossed the threshold of over 4,000 islandwide votes – meaning a third of everyone who voted cast a ballot for him.

This sets him up to be a major player in the new administration.

Now Former Education Minister

Cora Richardson-Hodge

DeeAnn Kentish Rogers, who created history the last time by defeating a sitting Premier, lost her seat to an AUF newcomer Cordel Richardson.

Kentish-Rogers, hailed as a rising local political star, was the target of one of the most intense campaigns.

Also losing their seats were Quincia Gumbs Marie and Kenneth Hodge – both members of the ougoing cabinet.

Colleagues Haydn Hughes, the now former Tourism Minister and Merrick Richardson were the two other APM candidates to have retained their seats.

2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season names announced

The National Hurricane Centre has released the list of names for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

Notable this year is the inclusion of “Dexter,” which replaces “Dorian” following its retirement after the devastating 2019 hurricane season.

The complete list of names for 2025 is: Andrea. Barry, Chantal, Dexter, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The announcement comes following what has been reported as the ninth consecutive aboveaverage hurricane season in 2024, which saw 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes affecting the Atlantic and Caribbean regions.

This significantly exceeded the typical average of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes per season. Hurricane Beryl made history in 2024 as the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin. The July storm caused widespread devastation, particularly affecting Carriacou and Petite Martinique (the northern dependencies of Grenada) and the southern islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (including Union Island, Canouan, and Mayreau).

While the storm resulted in extensive damage to homes and infrastructure, the impact on human life was reportedly minimised thanks to advances in early warning systems. (Loop News)

The Bahamas: Daughter of former PM Ingraham passes at 45

The Bahamas is mourning with and expressing deep sympathies to former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham and his family upon the passing of his daughter Kelli Ingraham.

According to the Bahamas Press, last week Ingraham was taken to a hospital in the United States to undergo treatment following a short illness, which was said to be not life-threatening. She passed away on Monday just over a month after she celebrated her 45th birthday.

In a statement, Prime Minister Philip Davis offered condolences to the family saying, “There are no words to fully express the pain of losing a child, and I can only imagine the grief he and his family are experiencing,” Davis said. “Ann and I offer our deepest sympathies and pray that they find

strength in the love and support of those around them during this incredibly difficult time.

“On behalf of the government and the people of The Bahamas, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Ingraham and his family. May Kelli’s soul rest in peace.”

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper also joined in extending his sympathies to the Ingraham family.

“Kelli was energetic, lively and possessed a great sense of humour and clarity of purpose,” he reminisced, “May God grant comfort and strength to her family during this difficult time, and may she rest in eternal peace.”

Leader of the Free National Movement, Michael C. Pintard reached out to the family via statement also expressing deep sympathies.

“Kelli was a shining star in her field, an emerging force whose impact was already being felt and whose potential was limitless,” Pintard said.

He called her death a profound tragedy.

“During this time of unimaginable grief, I extend our deepest sympathies to her entire family,” Pintard added.

Kelli Ingraham served on The Bahamas Bar Council and on The Bahamas Financial Services Board for several years.

Between 2017 and 2021, she served as the chairman of the Straw Market Authority in the last term of the Minnis Administration, and according to Bahamas Press was an aspiring potential candidate in the upcoming General Election for North Abaco seat. (Loop News)

Kelli Ingraham passed away one month after turning 45

The hurricane season is still months away

Regional

Experts urge Caribbean resilience in response to US policy shift

On Tuesday, February 18, Caribbean leaders, diplomats, and scholars gathered virtually for a Vice-Chancellor’s Forum hosted by The University of the West Indies (The UWI) to discuss US President, Donald Trump’s great policy shift and the Caribbean’s response to it.

In a statement the UWI said the event, streamed via The UWI’s public information platform, UWItv, featured Professor Jeffrey Sachs, an economist at Columbia University; Professor W. Andy Knight, an International Relations expert at the University of Alberta; and Ambassador Wayne McCook, a Jamaican diplomat and CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General. They discussed strategies for navigating the evolving geopolitical landscape

and enhancing regional resilience, for a coordinated Caribbean response to the US policies.

The event was organised by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor

Bermuda closes ‘digital nomad’ worker scheme

A worker scheme launched during the pandemic to boost the island’s economy will conclude on Friday, the Bermudian government announced this week.

The Work from Bermuda programme allowed remote workers, called digital nomads, and university students to work and study remotely from Bermuda while benefiting from the island’s health and safety measures.

The government said the scheme attracted approximately 1,800 participants and about 250 individuals applied to extend their stay.

The Ministry of Economy and Labour thanked past and present WFB certificate holders for choosing the island as their “temporary home away from home” while contributing to the local economy.

“We sincerely hope you have enjoyed your experience living in Bermuda and will return to visit us

in the future,” a spokesman said.

Holders of WFB certificates will have 90 days from their expiration date to settle their affairs and leave Bermuda.

Those who wish to remain may apply for permission to reside on an annual basis, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

Individuals must submit their applications one to two months before their WFB certificates expire, and permission may be granted for periods of up to five years. Application details and forms are available at www.gov. bm.

The government said it will be transitioning back to processing multiyear residency applications for people who wish to stay in Bermuda.

It said the move aligns with its long-term economic strategy and housing policies that aim to ensure more housing is available for Bermudians.

multilateral relations. She then kicked off the discussion, asking each speaker to identify two to three policies that may impact Caribbean nations and their economies.

at UWI, in collaboration with the University Office of AcademicIndustry Partnerships and Planning. It began with opening remarks from Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Justin Robinson and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Affairs Ms. Sandrea Maynard, who also moderated the discussion.

In his remarks, Professor Robinson emphasised the Caribbean’s historical agility in navigating global shifts. “We’ve had to dance with colonial rulers, tango with economic downturns, and now we must learn a new twostep with policies that may affect everything from trade to security,” he stated. Professor Robinson urged panellists to engage in proactive dialogue focused on building resilience and securing the best outcomes for Caribbean nations.

Pro Vice-Chancellor Sandrea Maynard welcomed the virtual audience and introduced the panellists, noting that the focus areas would include economic and trade relations, security and immigration, and diplomacy and

Professor Sachs described President Trump’s approach and the current changes in American foreign policy as a form of “neoimperialism” rooted in a vision for US dominance in the Western Hemisphere. “We are in a very unstable period,” he noted. He cautioned that this instability presents challenges for the Caribbean, driven by Trump’s anti-migrant sentiments and protectionist trade policies. Sachs emphasised the need for unity among Caribbean nations through CARICOM and suggested that CELAC could enhance regional diplomacy. He highlighted Mexico, under Claudia Sheinbaum, as a potential key player in fostering collaboration with the Caribbean to address these complexities.

Ambassador Wayne McCook highlighted the significant shift in US trade policy, focusing on using tariffs for economic and national security to address perceived global trade imbalances. He stressed the need for Caribbean nations to carefully analyse the implications of these changes, as the US is their primary trading partner. He pointed out the potential risks of US bilateral trade policies, particularly the unusual use of reciprocal tariffs, which could disrupt the current trade framework and urged Caribbean countries to assess their exposure to these policies, considering that the region runs a trade deficit with the US Lastly, Ambassador McCook

emphasised the importance of a rules-based multilateral trading system, which benefits nations in the Caribbean. “The CARICOM trading goods regime has undergone many iterations, but the urgency to deepen and strengthen our internal market has never been more pressing,” stated Ambassador McCook. “We need to navigate the challenges ahead with renewed resolve to reduce non-tariff barriers and ensure our firms can expand their markets effectively.”

Professor Andy Knight discussed concerns about Trump’s “America First” strategy, which has led to a rollback of US engagement with multilateral institutions like the UN and WHO. He argued that the new policies symbolise an erosion of the global order established post-World War II, reflected in increased chaos and uncertainty. This interregnum period offers Caribbean nations a chance to redefine their role on the worldwide stage by diversifying their diplomatic strategies and supply chains. Professor Knight highlighted that Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Mottley exemplifies this optimism, seeking to counter Trump’s bullying and reshape policies that allow Caribbean states to become more resilient and influential. Ultimately, he believes Trump’s actions may lead Caribbean countries to explore new markets and reduce reliance on the US “Trump’s policies, while potentially causing short-term instability, also create openings for Caribbean nations to assert themselves on the global stage and build a more equitable regional order,” he said.

Trump to end deportation protection for 500,000 Haitians

The US government will end the temporary protected status (TPS) for 500,000 Haitians living in the country in August, the Department of Homeland Security said on Thursday.

This comes despite deteriorating conditions in the Caribbean country, with gangs controlling about 85% of the capital and sexual violence against children increasing by 1,000% last year, according to the United Nations.

TPS is granted to nationals of designated countries facing unsafe conditions, such as armed conflict or environmental disasters.

US President Donald Trump has moved to overhaul parts of the US immigration system since returning to office and promised

“mass deportations” and arrests.

TPS has been held by Haitians since 2010 and will be ending on 3 August 2025.

This means they will lose their work permits and could be eligible for deportation.

On 1 February, the Trump administration announced the status would also end for Venezuelans living in the US, but this is currently facing a legal challenge from the National TPS Alliance.

“For decades the TPS system has been exploited and abused,” the Department for Homeland Security said in a statement on Thursday.

The system has allowed Haitians who “entered the US illegally, to qualify for legal protected status,” it added.

But the announcement has also been met with criticism.

More than 5,600 people in Haiti were killed in gang violence last year and the UN has said families are “struggling to survive in makeshift shelters while facing mounting health and protection risks”.

Democratic congresswoman Ayanna Pressley called the decision “shameful” amid the “unspeakable violence” in Haiti.

Haitians who have lived in the US for 15 years are at risk of deportation for “no reason other than being Haitian”, she added.

During his presidential campaign, Trump made a baseless claim that illegal immigrants from Haiti had been eating domestic pets in a small Ohio city.

The Bermudian government said the scheme attracted approximately 1,800 participants and about 250 individuals applied to extend their stay

Some of the participants who attended the forum

Trump administration to require undocumented migrants to register

US President Donald Trump’s administration has said it will create a national register for undocumented migrants, with those failing to sign up possibly facing criminal prosecution.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Tuesday that any undocumented migrants above the age of 14 must provide the US government an address and their fingerprints.

This is the latest move in the White House’s effort to dramatically overhaul the US immigration system, which has included promises of mass arrests and deportations that have largely failed to materialise.

Experts say that the registration system will face hurdles, as it is difficult to enforce and fraught with logistical challenges.

DHS justified the move by citing a section of the complex Immigration and Nationality Act.

The law has rarely been enforced, although in 1940 - with anxiety heightened due to World War Two - the US moved to require undocumented immigrants to register with the government at local post offices.

on 20 January

DHS in a statement on Tuesday night that the change could compel mass “self-deportation”, which it described as a “safer” path for migrants and law enforcement. It argued that it was also a way for immigration authorities to conserve resources.

“President Trump and [Homeland Security] Secretary [Kristi] Noem have a clear message for those in the country illegally: leave now,” DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.

“If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream,” she added. “We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.”

In a separate memo, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said that lawful residents are exempt, along with those who have entered the US on visas or who are already in

immigration proceedings.

There are approximately 13 million undocumented migrants in the US. It is unclear how many will register or be impacted by the registration directive.

The National Immigration Law Center, an advocacy organisation, said it believed the registration would “identify and target people for detention and deportation”. It noted that the US had only used a registry to identify “potential nationals security threats broadly characterised as communist or subversive” ahead of World War Two.

Nayna Gupta, policy director at the American Immigration Council, told the BBC that she believes the directive will be “ineffective”.

“Without any assurances, it’s hard to imagine undocumented migrants following this new process,” she said. “Essentially, what they are saying to folks is to put them on notice, when they’ve made clear that their goal is mass deportation.”

The vast majority of undocumented migrants in the US have been here for 15 years or more, she added, making them

even less likely to comply.

“It creates yet another tool for the Trump administration to advance the mass deportation agenda,” Ms Gupta added. While mass deportations formed a key part of Trump’s campaign message - and were the focus of a slew of immigration and borderrelated executive orders signed in his first week in office - the president and other officials have reportedly been dissatisfied by the pace of removals.

Data obtained by Reuters shows that nearly 38,000 people were deported during Trump’s first month in office, compared to a monthly average of about 57,000 during Joe Biden’s last full year in office.

The White House has celebrated a 36% decline in the number of border crossings in January 2025 when compared to December 2024. That month, the Biden administration managed the border for roughly the first three weeks before the Trump administration took over. Anticipated restrictive asylum and immigration policies under Trump are believed to have contributed to the decline. (BBC)

Chief Justice Roberts pauses order for Trump admin to pay $2bn in foreign aid

Chief Justice John Roberts on Wednesday paused a courtimposed Wednesday midnight deadline that would have required the Trump administration to release $2 billion in frozen foreign aid, a goal that the US government has claimed it is unable to meet.

The emergency appeal marks the first time President Donald Trump’s efforts to drastically remake the federal government – including with deep cuts across government agencies – have reached the nation’s highest court. The case appears likely to put the justices on a collision course with Trump’s sweeping efforts to consolidate power within the executive branch.

Roberts’ order does not resolve the underlying questions raised by the case. Rather, it imposed what’s known as an “administrative stay” to give the court a few days to review written arguments in the case. Roberts is the justice designated to handle emergency cases from the federal appeals court in Washington, DC.

The chief justice called for the groups that sued the administration to respond by Friday.

The Trump administration raced to the Supreme Court late Wednesday just hours before the midnight deadline and urged the

justices to step in immediately –the second time Trump has rushed to the high court since taking office last month. Another pending Trump-related case deals with the president’s firing of the leadership at the Office of Special Counsel.

At issue in the latest appeal is billions of dollars in foreign aid from the State Department and the United States Agency for International Development that Trump froze in January as he sought to clamp down federal spending and bring it more in line with his policy positions. US District Judge Amir Ali, nominated by President Joe Biden, imposed a temporary order requiring that money to flow while he considered the case.

After the plaintiffs asserted the Trump administration had not adequately restored the funding, Ali responded by ordering payment by Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET of all foreign aid that had been completed by the time of his order. The Trump administration has told courts that it would take “multiple weeks” to meet the judge’s request.

“The district court’s imminent and arbitrary deadline makes full compliance impossible,” acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris, the administration’s top appellate attorney, told the Supreme Court

on Wednesday.

In one notable section of the appeal, the administration told the high court that it “takes seriously its constitutional duty to comply with the orders” of federal courts. That language was clearly a recognition of the blowback Trump and his allies have received in recent weeks as they have flirted with the notion of defying court orders they disagree with, or attempting to impeach the judges who issue them.

“The government,” Harris wrote, “is undertaking substantial

efforts to review payment requests and release payments.”

The groups that sued have balked at those explanations, suggesting that a small number of political appointees within the administration “are refusing to authorize essentially any payments.”

It’s possible that the government may run into a major problem when the court begins to review the request more thoroughly: In explaining its reasoning for rejecting the administration’s bid to halt the deadline, the US Court

of Appeals for the DC Circuit said that the enforcement order at issue was not one that could be appealed in the first place.

“Appellants cite no case that has held that such a later issued supporting order is appealable,” the court said in its unanimous ruling.

Steve Vladeck, CNN Supreme Court analyst and professor at Georgetown University Law Center, said Roberts’ move isn’t an indication of how the court will treat Trump and the foreign aid freeze overall.

“It’s really just a play for time –in this case, perhaps as little as two days – to give the justices time to sort out whether or not they should pause Judge Ali’s ruling or force the government to turn the challenged foreign aid funding back on while the litigation challenging its suspension continues,” Vladeck said.

Roberts’ pause comes as a Wednesday court filing shows the Trump administration says it is terminating more than 90% of the US Agency for International Development’s foreign aid awards.

“In total, nearly 5,800 USAID awards were terminated, and more than 500 USAID awards were retained,” the filing from the administration said.

The Trump administration has ramped up immigration enforcement raids and deportations since he took office

The US Supreme Court Building is seen on Capitol Hill

US needs role in Ukraine to deter Putin, says PM

Sir Keir Starmer has reiterated his call for a US security guarantee in Ukraine to deter Vladimir Putin from invading again, as he prepares to meet Donald Trump.

Speaking on the plane to Washington DC, Keir said he hoped the UK-US relationship could go from “strength to strength”.

But the two leaders appear to be at odds over the importance of US security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any peace deal there.

Keir said discussions about potentially sending British troops to Ukraine were ongoing but he re-emphasised his belief in the importance of a so-called US “backstop”.

Asked what form he believed this backstop should take, he said: “Exactly what the configuration of that is, exactly what the backstop is, is obviously the subject of intense discussion but I’m not going to get ahead of myself on it, other than to say I’m very clear about what the principles are.”

In contrast, Trump has said: “I’m not going to make security guarantees beyond very much.

“We’re going to have Europe do that, because we’re talking about Europe as the next door neighbour.”

The president did add that the expected deal between Washington and Kyiv over access to Ukrainian minerals was “great” for Ukraine “because they get us over there.”

“We will be on the land and that way there is going to be automatic security because nobody is going to be messing around with our people.”

It is not yet known how much security support European leaders are asking for from America, nor is the scale of any American manpower on the ground in Ukraine associated with a minerals

Keir Starmer said he hoped the UK-US relationship could go from “strength to strength”

deal.

The prime minister said: “I’m considering how we preserve peace in Europe and how we get a lasting peace in Ukraine.

“And I’m absolutely convinced that we need a lasting peace, not a ceasefire, and for that to happen we need security guarantees.

“Precisely what that layers up to, what that looks like, is obviously a subject of intense discussion. We will play our part and I’ve been clear that we will need a US backstop of some sort.

“My concern is if there is a ceasefire without a backstop, it will simply give him [Putin] the opportunity to wait and to come again because his ambition in relation to Ukraine is pretty obvious, I think, for all to see.”

Speaking at a reception at the UK Ambassador’s residence in Washington on Wednesday evening, the Sir Keir told guests that he wanted to strike a “new partnership” with the United States, and said “our best days lie ahead”.

On domestic policy, the prime minister said that “taking out a chainsaw isn’t quite my style” - a

reference to an Elon Musk stunt at the conservative CPAC conference earlier this week - but said “we are stripping away red tape and bureaucracy”.

Lord Mandelson, the British ambassador, said Trump was a “very consequential president” and that “all the freedom-loving democracies in the world” faced a “very significant moment”.

“The US and the United Kingdom, we basically share everything together,” he said.

“And of course one thing we don’t need to fight over is trade, because we have this fantastically fair and balanced trade relationship when we reciprocate so muchthat’s just a little thing for you to remember in the coming weeks.”

Tariffs on steel imports to the US are set to come into force in March, with the president also considering other import taxes as part of his drive to protect American businesses.

After the visit from Sir Keir, Trump will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Zelensky has said the deal on minerals is preliminary and that he still wants further agreements,

arguing that without security guarantees from the US “we won’t have a ceasefire, nothing will work.”

Foreign Secretary David Lammy, speaking to ITV’s Peston programme, sounded hopeful about a deal.

“If US interests are on the ground in Ukraine, then that is the best security guarantee that the Ukrainians can have,” he said.

Keir was notably guarded in his remarks in advance of Thursday’s meetings in the White House, such are the stakes and sensitivities around Ukraine, the Middle East and trade with America since Trump’s inauguration.

Strengthening and deepening the US-UK relationship might be his ambition, but it is far from guaranteed with such an unpredictable president.

But asked if he could trust Trump, given what he had said in recent weeks, the prime minister replied: “Yes, I’ve got a good relationship with him.

“As you know, I’ve met him, I’ve spoken to him on the phone, and this relationship between our two countries is a special relationship with a long history, forged as we fought wars together, as we traded together.”

Does he think President Trump sees Russia as the aggressor in Ukraine?

“Of course, the president has been very clear about the peace that he wants - he’s right about that.

“We all want peace - the question is, how do we make sure it’s a lasting peace.”

“There’s no issue between us on this,” Sir Keir insisted.

Theresa May, former prime minister and Conservative peer, urged Sir Keir to tell Trump that Russia is the aggressor in Ukraine.

Speaking in the House of Lords

on Wednesday, she said: “Will he impress on President Trump that... the defence of Europe benefits the defence of America, and the Ukrainians are fighting for their independence and their sovereignty - principles which should be defended by all of us who value or benefit from economic and democratic freedom.”

Earlier this week, the prime minister announced the UK would boost military spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027, a move seen as an attempt to curry favour with the US president who has frequently attacked European countries for failing to spend more on defence.

The increase is being funded by a cut to the foreign aid budget which has angered international development charities and some of the prime minister’s own MPs.

The UK’s former security adviser Lord Sedwill told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme the UK was taking the right tack in increasing defence spending and urging its European neighours to do the same.

He said: “By showing we’re willing to do more on defence... to build that capability, I think we’re showing that Europe will step up and that’s the best way to keep the US invested, even under a Trump presidency.”

In addition to the Ukraine war, talks are also expected to take in a discussion about trade and artificial intelligence.

Downing Street wants what it calls “further integration” between the two countries’ technology sectors.

The potential flashpoints for Sir Keir are numerous and considerable - it is a landmark moment in his first year as prime minister. (BBC)

William was at his lowest after Kate’s diagnosis, says ex-aide

A former aide to the Prince of Wales has said the royal was at his “lowest” after the Princess of Wales was diagnosed with cancer.

In an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, Jason Knauf, formerly the chief executive of William and Kate’s Royal Foundation, said: “It was awful, absolutely awful. It’s the lowest I’ve ever seen him.

“Within a couple of weeks, if you’re Prince William, you find out that both your wife and your father have cancer. I couldn’t believe it.”

Both the King and the Princess of Wales were treated for cancer last year. Kate is now in remission and Charles is having ongoing treatment.

Mr Knauf, 43, stepped down from his position at the end of 2021.

Catherine’s diagnosis was made public in March last year, and Mr Knauf said: “The problem was that all this crazy conspiracy theory stuff kicked off in the background, online. ‘Was she really ill?’.

“But they didn’t want to say yet that she had cancer because they hadn’t told the children and they were still working through how to tell the children.”

Speaking to reporters last year at the end of his visit to South Africa, Prince William, 42, talked about how he has coped after both his wife and his father were diagnosed

with cancer, describing the past year as the “hardest year” of his life.

“It’s been dreadful. It’s probably been the hardest year in my life. So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult,” he said

after being asked how his year has been after a difficult year for the Royal Family.”

Mr Knauf also previously worked for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

In October 2018, while

working for the couple as their communications secretary, Mr Knauf made a bullying complaint against Meghan.

He wrote of his concerns to William’s then private secretary in an email, in an apparent attempt to force Buckingham Palace to protect staff.

The duchess’s legal team strenuously denied the allegation.

Discussing William’s relationship with Harry, Mr Knauf said: “It’s very difficult to have this stuff play out in the public eye, but he’s chosen to keep his thoughts on it private, and I think all of us who know him really have to respect that we should do the same.

The Prince and Princess of Wales

PHYSICIAN

• Minimum of M.B.B.S. or a Medical Doctor Degree from an accredited University

• Minimum of 5 years work experience in a Primary Health Care setting and a minimum of 3 years working in a Secondary Health Care institution

• Minimum of 5 years registered Medical Practitioner on a register of a recognized Medical Board.

• Patient consultations and examinations

• Diagnosis and treatment of

• Manage acute and chronic illnesses, patient education

• Order laboratory/ diagnostic tests

• Perform minor procedures

• Liaise with healthcare professionals and/or hospitals

• Computer knowledge – experience using EMR files

Monthly salary $8000.00 Belongers only need to apply. Position currently held by a work permit holder.

The Department of Social Development and Welfare of the Turks and Caicos Islands formally notifies the public that Roger Rolle and Beatrice Rolle have submitted an adoption application.

Any person with a legal interest or objection to this adoption is advised to come forward. In particular, the biological mother, Islande Thermidor, is strongly urged to contact the Department of Social Development and Welfare, to express any concerns or objections regarding this matter.

Failure to respond may result in the Magistrate’s Court granting the final adoption order, legally transferring parental rights and responsibilities to Roger Rolle and Beatrice Rolle.

WINDMILLS MANAGEMENT

TWO GENERAL WORKERS

(unskilled) to carry out daily activities associated with tours provided to mainly cruise ship guests, at the beach and other locations.

ONE GENTLE ORGANIZER

to assist the Operations Manager, with the preparation and executing of customer service activities for all cruise ship guests.

All candidates must be honest, hardworking, customer focused and speaks English. They will be responsible for the daily tour operations, where Safety is First! and will also be required to keep accurate records of Guests information and inventory. They must be willing to carry out any other duties deemed necessary by management.

HOURS OF OPERATION-

Primarily Cruise Ship schedule and others tasks assigned by management. General Workers - starting salary is $1,200.00 and General Organizer. Starting salary is $1,500.00.

ONE STORE CLERK

to manage and properly record all daily transactions, to prove excellent customer service to all customers. To keep record of inventory as directed by management. They must be willing to carry out any other duties deemed necessary by management. Starting salary is $1,500.00.

ONE DOMESTIC WORKER

to

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Plan and supervise a wide range of construction projects from start to finish, experience in managing large scale vertical construction projects is necessary. You will organize and oversee construction the construction team procedures and ensure they are completed in a timely and efficient manner.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with engineers, architects etc. to determine the specifications of the project.

• Negotiate contracts with external vendors to reach profitable agreements.

• Determine needed resources (manpower, equipment, and materials) from start to finish with attention to budgetary limitations.

• Plan all construction operations and schedule intermediate phases to ensure deadlines will be met.

• Acquire equipment and material and monitor stocks to timely handle inadequacies.

• Hire contractors and other staff and allocate responsibilities.

• Supervise the work of all construction team members and give guidance when needed.

• Evaluate progress and prepare detailed progress reports.

• Ensure adherence to all health and safety standards and report issues.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as construction project manager, minimum 10 years’ experience managing projects greater then USD $50 MIL.

• In-depth understanding of construction procedures and material and project management principles

• Familiarity with quality and health and safety standards

• Good knowledge of MS Office, MS Projects

• Familiarity with construction/ project management software Procore and Blue Beam

• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills

• Excellent organizational and time-management skills

• A team player with leadership abilities

Salary: $3500/weekly

Belongers are encouraged to send copy of their resume to Labour Board

LABOURER

LABOURER

(2) A/C CONDITIONING TECHNICIAN AND DUCTWORK CONSULTANT

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Installation of mitsubishi electric and rheen systems, including electrical and mechanical components.

CONTACT:

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

KARAM & MISSICK ATTORNEYS

Is seeking to employ a

LAW CLERK

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Assisting real estate attorneys with preparing legal documentation.

• Preparing, proofreading and editing various legal documents related to real estate transactions such as deeds, mortgages and leases.

• Assisting with closings and handling the transfer of titles and funds.

• Organizing and maintaining client files.

• Performing administrative tasks, such as managing appointments, answering phones and filing paperwork.

• Assisting MLRO/MLCO with implementation of risk-based AML/CFT procedures and client onboarding (KYC).

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Candidate must hold a Law Clerk diploma/certificate from a recognized College.

• Candidate must be computer proficient in office software such as, MS Office and Excel.

• Candidate must be experienced and qualified in Governance, Risk and Compliance.

• Must be able to communicate efficiently with clients.

EXPERIENCE

• Must have previous experience as a Law Clerk (at least 5 years) with references.

• Must be able to liaise between attorney and clients.

• Must be skilled at drafting and preparing legal documentation and correspondence.

• Must have excellent keyboarding skills.

• Must be trained in and be able to manage and mitigate against AML/CTF risks.

• Must have experience in company matters.

• Must be able to multitask and complete assigned tasks with alacrity.

• Must be a team player and be willing and able to take guidance.

• Must be able to take initiative and work independently.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Salary commensurate to skills, qualification and experience. Support for professional development will also be offered.

• Fault code repairs on mitsubishi electric and rheem systems, including electrical and mechanical components.

NECESSARY

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Electrical, refrigration and air conditioning trade certificates and licenses

• Must be mitsubishi electric certified

• Ability to speak english

SALARY: negotiable between $25-$42k per annum based on qualifications and experience.

An Application, REGISTERED PR 18150, by ROMANZA ON GRACE BAY LTD FOR A MODIFICATION OF (PR16739) A TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT WHICH CONTAINED THIRTY-TWO UNITS.

THE MODIFICATION WHICH IS BEING CONSIDERED CONTEMPLATES THE FOLLOWING:

1. THE REMOVAL OF TWELVE (12) TOWNHOUSE UNIT.

2. RETENTION OF TWENTY (20) TOWNHOUSE UNITS; PROPOSED 3-4 STOREYS TYPOLOGIES.

3. ADDITION OF A SEVEN STOREY BUILDING WHICH CONTAINS THIRTY-FOUR (34) UNITS.

4. AMENITIES INCLUDES: PICKEL BALL/ BASKETBALL COURT/ TENNIS COURT/ STAFF BUILDING/ RECEPTION AND GYM/ PLAY GROUND/ COMMUNITY YOGA ROOM/ SWIMMING POOL/ GARBAGE ENCLOSURE/ BOARDWALK AND GATE HOUSE.

The application has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on Block & Parcels 60900/258 which is 4.89 acres of land located at Leeward Going Through (Grace Bay), Providenciales.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

FABULOUS SPA THERAPISTS WANTED

Spa Tropique is on the hunt to find the best massage therapists, estheticians, and nail technicians on island! If you have at least three years of experience with a four-star spa and have an upbeat and positive personality, we hope you will come and meet with us. Applicants must be able to speak and write English fluently, have a clean driver’s license and their own vehicle in excellent working condition. Please see further requirements for applicants below.

APPLICANTS FOR THE POSITION ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE:

• Obtained a diploma in Massage Therapy from an internationally accredited school.

• Completed a massage course of at least 1800 hours plus an additional 600 hours of practical training.

• At least 3 years of experience with a spa rated 4 stars or above.

• Their own vehicle in excellent working order and a clean driver’s license.

• Fluent spoken and written English.

• Basic computer skills for use of company software.

• Be available to work 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM every day. Weekends and holidays are a must. Schedules are subject to change. Remuneration: $8.00 per hour plus commission and gratuities.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT COACH

The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) is seeking an experienced individual to fulfill the role of Talent Development Coach. The successful applicant will oversee and be responsible for the development of emerging talent in the Turks & Caicos Islands with objective of increasing the the quality, technical, and tactical ability of national players in the Turks and Caicos Islands ranging from Youth and Senior National Teams. Your expertise in coaching and athlete development will be crucial in advancing our national team’s performance on the global stage.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Develop comprehensive programs to identify and nurture athletes with high potential.

- Work closely with national team coaches and support staff to ensure an integrated development pathway for athletes.

- Conduct talent scouting, monitoring, and evaluation at various levels of competition.

- Provide individualized coaching, mentorship, and feedback to young athletes to enhance their technical, tactical, and physical skills.

- Collaborate with local, regional, and international organizations to expand the talent pool and build networks.

- Contribute to the creation of long-term development plans for athletes, ensuring a focus on both performance and personal growth.

- Lead and manage training camps, workshops, and seminars aimed at skill enhancement and talent identification.

QUALIFICATIONS:

- US Soccer “A” License, UEFA “A” License or its equivalent

- At least 8yrs experience in talent development, coaching, or athlete management at the senior/professional level.

- Strong understanding of coaching methodologies, athlete development principles, and performance analysis.

- passion for nurturing young talent and developing athletes to their full potential.

- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and contribute to a positive culture.

- Previous experience working with national teams or elite athletes is required.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

- Willingness to work outdoors, in all weather conditions

- Ability to work individually and as a team member

- Must be flexible and adaptable to change

- Must be able to work under pressure

The Talent Development Coach will be required to work, under the supervision of the General Secretary and Technical Director, for approximately 44 hours per week. However, during match days and other business events, he/she may be required work outside normal office hours, either in the evening and on weekends, to a high standard and have a flexible attitude.

SALARY:

Commensurate

Lewinsky says Clinton should’ve resigned after affair in new podcast interview

Monica Lewinsky is revisiting the events involving Bill Clinton that first put her in the media spotlight over 25 years ago, saying that the former president should have resigned from office at the time.

Sitting down with “Call Her Daddy” podcast host Alex Cooper, Lewinsky responded to a question on how she thought the matter should have been handled by the media and the White House once the news broke that the former president had an affair with her when she was a White House intern.

“I think that the right way to handle a situation like that would have been to probably say it was nobody’s business and to resign,” Lewinsky told Cooper. “Or to find a way of staying in office that was not lying and not throwing a young person who is just starting out in the world under the bus.”

In a clip of the latest episode of “Call Her Daddy,” first released by CNN, Lewinsky told Cooper that she believes other young women suffered because of the treatment she endured at the time of the political scandal.

“I think there was so much collateral damage for women of my generation to watch a young woman to be pilloried on a world stage – to be torn apart for my sexuality, for my mistakes, for my everything.”

CNN has reached out to a representative for Clinton for comment.

Lewinsky appeared on Cooper’s podcast for a wide-ranging discussion to promote her own podcast, “Reclaiming,” which Lewinsky began hosting earlier this month. (So far, guests on

Lewinsky’s new podcast have included Olivia Munn and Alan Cumming.)

Lewinsky has spoken in recent years about the power imbalance between her and Clinton, and has been candid about misogyny in the media that she has said unfairly covered her as a young woman.

In 2021, Lewinsky told CNN’s Jake Tapper that Clinton’s role in their affair, which captured the nation’s attention for years and eventually led to his impeachment, was “wholly inappropriate.”

“I think what’s really important to remember in today’s world is that we never should have even gotten to a place where consent was a question,” Lewinsky told Tapper.

“So it was wholly inappropriate as the most powerful man, my

boss, 49 years old. I was 22, literally just out of college. And I think that the power differentials there are something that I couldn’t ever fathom consequences at 22 that I understand obviously so differently at 48.”

Lewinsky told Variety in 2021 that in a post-#MeToo era, she hopes young women in her same position would not be judged so harshly by the media and in society.

“I would hope that we would be having a different kind of conversation,” she said. “I would hope that most of the blame would not have rested on my shoulders, and most of the consequences.”

In the 2020 documentary “Hillary,” Bill Clinton said he felt “terrible about the fact that Monica Lewinsky’s life was defined” by their affair, “unfairly I think.”

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who rose to fame as a child star in the 1990s and 2000s, has died aged 39.

Police in Manhattan said they responded to an emergency call on Wednesday morning, and found Trachtenberg “unconscious and unresponsive”. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The American actress was best known for playing Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s younger sister Dawn Summers, and later took on the role of manipulative socialite Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girlwhich ran from 2007 to 2012 - as an adult.

Trachtenberg made her film debut in Harriet the Spy in 1996, and she appeared in several Nickelodeon productions.

Her family’s representatives confirmed her death in a statement.

“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” it said.

Authorities said her death was not being treated as suspicious.

“Criminality is not suspected. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing,” the NYPD said in a statement.

Monica Lewinsky

Michelle Trachtenberg rose to fame in the early 2000s

TCI ushers in new era of parliament with fanfare and celebration

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a landmark event for the Turks and Caicos Islands, the nation witnessed the swearing-in of 19 newly elected Members of Parliament on February 21st, 2025. This ceremony was held at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral and Parade Grounds in Grand Turk, marking the commencement of their leadership following the Progressive National Party’s (PNP)

electoral victory.

Hon Gordon Burton was reappointed as the Speaker of the House of Parliament, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape.

This first-ever seating under the newly changed constitution occurred during the 1st sitting of the First Meeting of the First sessions of the 13th Legislature of the Parliament of the Turks & Caicos Islands in the nation’s

capital, Grand Turk.

The swearing-in ceremony, followed the Progressive National Party’s (PNP) resounding victory in the February 7th General Elections, against the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM).

The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as the 19 newly elected Members of Parliament, including two elected opposition members, took their oath of allegiance, officially commencing their five-

year parliamentary duties.

The auspicious occasion was observed with a spectacle of traditional pomp and pageantry as scores of attendees, including party supporters, family members, and residents, watched the historic event unfold in grand style.

Washington Misick.

HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands delivered the 2025-2026 Throne

on behalf of the

The speech outlined an ambitious agenda for the next five years, focusing on “Inclusive Growth: Shaping the Future Together.” Governor Selvaratnam addressed the Parliament, stating, “This is a time of renewed hope and high expectations. Honourable members, the people have elected you to represent their interest in this Parliament for the next five years. That is an awesome

Speech

PNP, led by Premier Charles

Premier Hon Charles Washington was sworn into Parliament: (Photo TCIG)

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood was sworn into Parliament (Photos TCWeekly News)

Government and Opposition Members of Parliament during the official proceedings

Hon Arlington Musgrove was sworn into Parliament

Hon Sharon Simmons was sworn into Parliament for the first time

Hon Erwin Saunders was sworn into Parliament

HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam watches on as House Speaker Ho Gordon Burton delivers brief remarks at the swearing-in ceremony

responsibility.”

The Governor emphasised the importance of economic growth, stating, “Without a strong economy, the TCI will not be able to make the transformation necessary.”

She announced several major infrastructure projects, including the completion of the Howard Hamilton International Airport, upgrades to several other airports, and the redevelopment of the Grand Turk Commercial Port.

Additionally, plans for a public marina, upgrades to existing marinas, and significant road redevelopment projects, including the “Caicos Turnpike,” were unveiled.

Addressing concerns about rising crime rates, the Governor announced a substantial investment

in public safety.

Other measures include the construction of a high-security remand centre, increased marine and drone support, and enhanced CCTV and surveillance.

The government also pledged to enhance healthcare, housing, education, and digital services.

A National Health Services Authority (NHSA) will be established, and primary healthcare delivery will be strengthened.

Housing initiatives include the creation of “New Towns” and special development zones in traditional communities.

Education curricula will be aligned with industry needs, and youth development programs will be expanded.

Coupled with this, all

government services will move online, with the rollout of a National ID Card system and Digital Identification Platform by next year.

The Governor concluded her speech with a message of unity and optimism: “Let us unite in the noble goal to do the best for our country and people. May the work of this Parliament honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and dreamt of a better, more prosperous TCI.”

The Members of Parliament sworn in were: Premier, Hon Charles Washington Misick OBE JP, leading the Office of the Premier and Public Policy, and Minister of Finance, Economic Development, Investment, and Trade. Deputy Premier, Hon Jamell Rayan

Robinson, Minister of Immigration and Border Services. Hon Erwin Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology, and Information. Hon Otis Chuck Morris, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities. Hon Arlington Alexander Musgrove, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development. Hon Rachel Marshall Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture. Hon Shaun David Malcolm, Minister of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation. Hon Kyle Robert Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services. Hon Zhavargo Jermaine Jolly, Minister of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment, and Attorney General Honorable Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles.

Other elected members were: South Caicos Elected MP Hon Tamell Seymour, Leeward and Long Bay MP Hon Akierra Misick, All Island Elected Member Hon Josephine Connolly, All Island Elected Member Hon Willian Belliard, All Island Elected Member Hon Sharon Simons, Elected MP for Blue Hills Randy Howell, Member for Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill Hon Samuel Been, and the Leader of the Opposition and elected MP for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay, Hon Edwin Astwood and Hon Audric Skippings and Hon Jameka Williams.

The historic event culminated with an inspection of the guard of honour by Governor Daniel

Selvaratnam.

MPs and their loved ones embrace the historical moment

Royal Turk and Caicos Islands Police and TCI Regiment salute officials

Local dignitaries, heads of government departments, family, friends and well-wishers attended the ceremony

House Speaker, Hon Gordon Burton was sworn into Parliament

Hon Otis Morris was sworn into Parliament

Hon Kyle Knowles was sworn into Parliament

Hon Rachel Taylor was sworn into Parliament

ELECTRICIAN

LABOURER

ELECTRICIANS, LABOURERS AND MAINTENANCE

Applicants must have at least 10 years experience on large commercial projects. Duties will include:electrical installations, repairs, maintenance and service calls to residential and commercial projects. Remuneration starts at $20.00 per hour depending on level of experience.

•

•

•

•

•

•

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER

INVENTORY CONTROLLER

REQUIREMENTS

• 5 year’s experience in Inventory Optimization and Retail

• Experience in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 2.0

• Online QuickBooks and Inventory management system experience

• Fluent (written and oral) in English and Spanish

• Valid TCI driver’s license, own vehicle and a clean record

• Flexibility with working hours, weekends and public holidays

• Attention to detail, Customer service and interpersonal skills

• Organization and time management skills

DUTIES

• Receiving and cross-checking orders with stock records

• Coordinating stock counts to maintain accuracy

• Monitoring supplier performance and resolving discrepancies

• Liaising with transport companies, suppliers and clients

• Planning and forecasting inventory items

• Compiling daily reports and addressing inventory discrepancies

• Maintaining records of pricing, purchases and other relevant information

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

MISS MAE CAKERY

Location: Providenciales Contact info: +1(649)341 9065 aida.lizarraga.a@gmail.com

CHEF / BAKER

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Miss MAE Cakery is seeking a talented and passionate Private Chef / Baker to create high-quality, handcrafted baked goods and meals for private clients. The ideal candidate should have expertise in baking, cake decorating, and preparing a variety of sweet and savory dishes while maintaining the highest standards of quality and presentation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

● Prepare and bake a variety of cakes, pastries, bread, and desserts according to company and client specifications.

● Design and decorate custom cakes and confections with attention to detail and artistic creativity.

● Plan and execute personalized menus for private clients, including dietary accommodations and special requests.

● Source high-quality ingredients and manage inventory to ensure freshness and efficiency.

● Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment, adhering to all food safety and hygiene regulations.

● Stay updated on baking trends, techniques, and innovative recipe development.

● Coordinate with clients for custom orders, special occasions, and private dining experiences.

● Ensure all baked goods and meals are presented beautifully and delivered on time.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

● Proven experience as a baker, pastry chef, or private chef.

● Strong skills in cake decorating, pastry arts, and artisanal baking techniques.

● Knowledge of various cooking methods, ingredients, and kitchen equipment.

● Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.

● Excellent attention to detail, creativity, and passion for food presentation.

● Understanding of dietary restrictions and ability to create customized recipes.

COASTAL AND MARINE DESIGN BUILD LTD

3rd Floor Stanbrook Law Graceway House, Providenciales. RENEWAL

Heavy lifting is required, cleaning up sites working with construction team moving rocks, sand, debris must be able to swim or dive in marine construction work Piling & large rocks formation in water shore line Weekends & Holidays work is a requirement preforming task involving physical labor is required. Salary is $8 to $10 per hour

● Flexible schedule, including availability for special events and private catering.

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Fanie Ingham/ Alexandre by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS

- RENEWAL WORK PERMIT

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES FOR SKILLED MARINE OPERATORS

• Operation of all Marine equipment minimum of five years of experience

• Training and Management of All Marine Equipment Operators

• Main Excavator Operator for Marine Projects

• 150 + meters of Sheet piling

• 1000+ meters of DIP Piling

• Levelling, grading and excavation

• Breakwater boulder placement and shaping

• Monitor Excavation near sealine areas

• Specific Marine operations of boulder placement

• Fuelling and general inspection of heavy machinery

• Conduct oil changes and engine maintenance

• Operate Back-Hoe and Loader or various heavy equipment.

• Operate Excavator

Weekly inspection and reporting of all CMDB Heavy Machinery and Maintenance reporting.

Operator salary is $10 to $15 per hour based on experience.

CLEANER

BABYSITTER

DOMESTIC WORKER

NOELLE ARIZA-ST ELOI

VACANCIES

RIGBY FAMILY CONTRACTING

Five Cays 331-8099

LABOURER

$8.00

setting up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, layout tools.

R & L CONSTRUCTION

333-1236

Blue Hills

HELPER

$8.00

setting up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, layout tools.

ALYDIA N. EWING

243-6655

Five Cays

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my children and household, wash, iron, cook and clean

VENEL CONSTRUCTION

Five Cays 347-1700

LABOURER

$9.00

setting up equipment, run lines for power tools, erect scaffolding, layout tools.

ALL STARS BAR 7 RESTUARENT

Downtown 344-0775

SERVER

$8.00

taking customer order, serving food, drinks, receiving payment,

JOAZILE M. HUGUETTE

341-1791

The Bight

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property

J & V CONSTRUCTION

Millennium highway 242-2880

LABOURER

$8.75

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and assist with ongoing construction on the property

AMBIORIX HALL

Long Bay 346-5406 LABOURER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste and maintain cleanliness of apartment rental.

VENEL & WILLIAM’S VARIETY STORE

347-1700 Five Cays STORE HELPER

$ 8.00

Cleaning the store, assist with heavy lift, displaying good outside daily

CHERUBS MANAGEMENT CONSTULTANT

Cherokee Road 347-0699 HELPER

$8.00

Loading & unloading equipment, cleaning office, assisting crew with necessary work.

E.G. CLEANING SERVICES

331-7188

Long Bay MAID

$8.00

Cleaning villas and Airbnb

WILNER CHERI

Five Cay (behind Gas Station) 347-6850 HAIRDRESSER

$8.00

Braiding men, women and children hair

JN CLAUDE M. AUGUSTE

Blue Hills

$8.00 Help construction work on my property

HOUSEKEEPER

Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, and polishing. Ensuring all rooms inspected according to standards. $8.00 hr

Cleaning

CONTACT: 443-2652/348-4724

IS NOW HIRING:

PRICING CLERK

• Maintain pricing integrity on the sales floor by ensuring that all Items are properly received, priced, tagged, and scanned correctly.

• Ability to work in minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 23 degree Celsius

• Ability to operate Cash Register, Back office POS System, MS Office, Credit Card Terminal, calculator, pricing gun.

• Communicate and collaborate with other team members.

• Availability on work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Ability to multitask, prioritizes, and manages time efficiently.

• Salary $9.00 to $11.00 / per Hour

• This position is for renewal and for first-time work permit Applications.

SHIPPING AND RECEIVING CLERK

• Will prepare orders for shipment complete all paperwork, obtain the best rate quotes, and ensure accuracy of the order to ship.

• Adequate knowledge of computer systems and comfortable using them.

• Duties include but are not limited to, receiving in, storing, and distributing all deliveries, as well as stocking and restocking items in their proper locations as needed.

• Employees will pick customer orders per pick ticket and ensure the accuracy of selected items and quantities.

• Safety, organizational, and housekeeping responsibilities are encompassed in the position.

• Salary $9.00 to $11.00 / per Hour .

• This position is for renewal and for first-time work permit Applications.

REQUIREMENTS:

• College Graduate with a degree in any 4-year Course.

• With at least 5 years of work experience.

• In an 8-hour workday: stand or walk for 6-8 hours.

• Flexible schedule including working nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• A positive attitude. Show up on time.

• Being flexible on what days and hours you can work.

• The willingness to do any job that is needed even if it’s not “technically” part of your job description.

Five Cays Access Road. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island

CARPENTER

BOAT CAPTAIN

BOAT CAPTAIN DUTIES

• Navigate and operate the vessel safely.

• Supervise and manage the crew.

• Ensure compliance with maritime laws and regulations.

• Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of the boat.

• Handle emergency situations and coordinate rescue operations.

• Manage the logistics of trips, including fuel and supplies.

• Communicate with port authorities and other vessels.

• Maintain detailed logs of voyages and

BOAT CAPTAIN REQUIREMENTS

• Valid captain's license appropriate to the vessel size.

• 10 years of experience in maritime operations.

• Thorough knowledge of navigation and seamanship.

• Proficiency in emergency procedures and first aid.

• Strong understanding of maritime laws and safety regulations. Salary based on skill and experience.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Meet and greet with customers to understand their needs; recommends appropriate products.

• Answers inquiries regarding product options, availability, cost, and lengths of rentals.

• Maintains records of reservations.

• Completes forms and supplemental documentation such as licenses

• Explains rental policies to customers and obtains signatures indicating their understanding.

• Explains proper use and care of products to customers.

• Accurately record information to open or close a contract; collects deposits, rental fees, and other payments at rental or return.

• Inspects vehicle on return to ensure vehicles are clean, in good repair, and, when applicable, refilled or otherwise maintained according to rental agreement.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Ability to work on weekends and holidays

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

• Valid TCI driver’s license is preferred.

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.

An Application, REGISTERED PR 18157, by VILLAGE HOLDINGS 159 LTD FOR DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION FOR A MIX USE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT WHICH COMPRISE OF FOUR (4) THREE STOREY BUILDINGS, CONTAINING TWO HUNDRED AND TWELVE (212) APARTMENT UNITS, NINE (9) RETAIL OFFICE SPACES, SWIMMING POOL AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES.

The application has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on Block & Parcels 60905/159 & 160 which is 6.10 acres of land located at Leeward Going Through (Grace Bay), Providenciales.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

Dated

SECURITY GUARD (S)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Patrolling

• Enforcing company policies and regulations to maintain a secure Environment.

• Monitoring surveillance equipment and reporting any suspicious activities or incidents.

• Responding to alarms and emergencies promptly and effectively

• Conducting thorough inspections of premises and reporting any potential security breaches or hazards.

• Providing exceptional customer service by assisting visitors and addressing their inquiries.

• Writing incident reports and maintaining accurate and detailed records

REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience in security or law enforcement preferred.

• Strong observation and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Basic knowledge of security systems and protocols.

• Physically fit and able to stand or walk for extended periods. This position is for renewal and for first-time work permit Applications. Wages start at $9.00 to $10.00 per hour.

submit your resume and cover letter to

shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Interested Belongers are encouraged to submit their resume to the Labour Department

LABOURER

BOAT MECHANIC

Requires a minimum of 10 years’ experience in marine maintenance. Responsible for maintaining, repairing and testing all resorts and homeowner’s Vessels, observing equipment and diagnosing potential problems and repairing them. Boat Captains License, Driver’s License and certificate from a brand of outboard engines (emphasize on Yamaha) or marine engineering school are required. The Position requires staying on Pine Cay. Salary is 30,000 per annum.

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIST

Design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of electrical equipment. Manage engineering projects and deliver them on time. Ensure that installations and applications are in line with needs and safety standards. Summarize data and report on test results. Salary $36,000 per annum.

FOOD & BEVERAGE SUPERVISOR

Minimum 5 years’ experience in luxury restaurant operation with Mediterranean exposure required. Excellent communication and organizational skills; reading, writing, and oral proficiency in the English language. Excellent human relations skills; proven experience in dealing with employees and guest situations in a positive and effective manner. Must be an exceptional performer in their current job and demonstrate the potential for management. Train, evaluate, lead, motivate, coach, and discipline all employees in the Hotel’s Service Department to ensure that established cultural and core Relais &Chateaux standards are met. Salary $24,000 per annum

HOUSEKEEPER

Knowledge relating to cleaning products and correct usage, responsible for the basic cleaning and sanitation in and around Pine Cay (assist in the daily operations of Hotel and Villa housekeeping duties) and providing tidy and sanitary amenities to guests and staff. Must pay attention to details, learn and adapt quickly, work diligently and independently and be organized. Some shifts may require staying on Pine Cay. Salary is $10.00 per hour.

K9 DOG HANDLER SECURITY

Patrol Cay with K9 security dogs. Train and care for the dogs. Security baggage checks at the docks. Respond to incidents at all hours. Work weekends, holidays and evenings. Must have emergency first responder training and firefighting training. Utilize K9’s to search for, apprehend and safely detain people involved in or attempting criminal behavior. Protect all property of island,

homeowners, guests and staff. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in military or law enforcement. Ability to read, write, understand and speak English to ensure comprehension and effective communication with others. Good health and physical condition. Have a good employment record and a clean police record check. Ability to work with and learn computer software. Salary 22,000 per annum.

LABOURER

Must be able to work outdoors and operate small machinery, maintain the beauty and health of all plants, flowers, outdoors grounds and trees, responsible for designing, producing, renewing and preserving outdoor spaces as well as responsible for minor repairs and keeping the compound clean from debris. Must be able to take direction, pay attention to detail and be a team player. Skills in painting, carpentry, landscaping and gardening would be an asset. Salary is $8.00 per hour.

RESERVATION SUPERVISOR

The reservation supervisor must maintain a friendly and efficient atmosphere for the guests, homeowners, and staff members. To maintain accurate guest reservations, records, and bills. To serve as the communication focal point for the hotel and club. Must complete daily reservation duties and follow ups. Keep track of revenue management with fact sheet and packages updates. Following up with the IT technician on website maintenance, OTA’s websites updates and Relais & Chateaux updates. Following up on regular rooms and villa bookings. Salary 36,000 per annum.

RESORT BULTER

Responsible for attending to the needs and preferences of VIP guests. Ensure guest comfort and satisfaction throughout their stay. Greet guests upon arrival and build strong, professional relationships with guests. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Salary 21,600 per annum.

SPORTS AND YOGA MANAGER

Perform routines that assist in individuals’ well-being. Develop personalized routines in consideration of individuals’ needs, abilities and goals. Demonstrate practices and techniques. Transform energy during the warm-up, build-up and cool-down stages. Engage in administrative duties. Must possess certifications in yoga practice. Must have CPR/ First Aid certification. Must have a level of patience and empathy. Must have customer services skills, leadership skills, communication skills and ability to work under pressure. Salary $25,200 per annum.

Science & Technology

A little-known Chinese company made a drug that beat the world’s biggest-selling medicine

China’s DeepSeek shocked the world by delivering unexpected innovation at an unbelievable price. But this disruptive trend isn’t confined to Big Tech: it has been quietly happening in the pharmaceutical sector.

In September, Akeso, a little-known Chinese biotech company founded nearly a decade ago shook up the biotech sector with its new lung cancer drug.

Ivonescimab, the new drug, was found in a trial conducted in China to have bested Keytruda, the blockbuster medication developed by Merck that has raked in more than

$130 billion in sales for the American behemoth that has dominated cancer treatment.

Patients treated with Akeso’s new drug went 11.1 months before their tumors began to grow again, compared with 5.8 months for Keytruda, according to clinical data released at the World Conference on Lung Cancer, a top medical forum.

Over the course of several days in early September, shares in California-based Summit Therapeutics, Akeso’s US partner, more than doubled to a record high, according to data from Refinitiv. The firm had licensed the right to

commercialise the new drug in North America and Europe.

At the time, though experts said it was a watershed moment for Chinese pharmaceutical companies, it was little noticed outside the industry. All that changed following DeepSeek’s exploits earlier this year, which put international attention on pockets of innovation in China — with growing global implications.

“I do believe the Chinese biotech industry will play an important role globally. And we [will] participate more and more,” Michelle Xia, the CEO of Akeso, said in

MASTER CHARGE CLERK

Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be considered. All candidates must be willing to work unusual hours including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. All candidates must be non-smokers. Applicants will be required to pass a written skills test. This position is not currently occupied by a work permit holder. Qualified Turks Islander applicants are invited to forward resumes to the Labour Board or apply at www.momentous.com.

Salary - $40,000 USD

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

● Strong academic record required. Must have a BSc from top-tier University

● Bank reconciliation and data analysis

● Accounts payable and receivable

● Must have over 5+ years of experience in domain name accounting management

● Must have over 5+ years of experience accounting related to ICANN accredited companies

● Must have over 3+ years of experience in cryptocurrency transaction entries

● Must have over 3+ years of experience in blockchain inquiries and transaction auditing

● Must have over 5+ years of experience with Microsoft Dynamics GP

● Must have over 5+ years of experience with NetSuite

● Must have the ability to travel globally

● Must be fluent (Written & Oral) in English

an interview last month with BiotechTV.

In a statement sent to CNN, Akeso said it was an “incredibly exciting moment” to see its drug beat Keytruda, the world’s bestselling medication.

“Akeso’s innovation is driven by a deep understanding of disease biology and protein engineering, while benefitting from the fast development time and the abundance of top-tier talent in China,” it said.

THE RISE OF CHINESE BIOTECH

Until the 1980s, when China opened up its economy, most of its pharmaceutical firms were state-owned. For most

CLEANER

dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping,

of the past 40 years, Chinese biotech companies were mainly replicating existing medications, known as “metoo” drugs.

But over the past 10 years, they’ve begun to innovate with more advanced drugs that can compete directly with the Western offerings.

And they’ve signed billions

of dollars in licensing deals with Western partners to get their products to the rest of the world.

AstraZeneca signed a $1.92 billion deal with China’s CSPC Pharmaceutical Group last year to develop

weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting. Hydroponic Farming PATRICIA

In September, Akeso, a little-known Chinese biotech company founded nearly a decade ago shook up the biotech sector with its new lung cancer drug

Science & Technology

Chinese company made a drug that beat the ...

cardiovascular medication, and Merck has a $2 billion agreement with China’s Hansoh Pharmaceutical over an experimental weight loss pill.

“People were aware that the biotech industry was growing very fast in China, but very few saw it as a real threat to the top US innovators,” said Rebecca Liang, a pharmaceuticals

analyst at AB Bernstein. “Now the threat is getting real, because you do start to see these next generation drugs that are sort of a leapfrog.”

According to a research note published by HSBC Qianhai Securities earlier this month, China is becoming an innovation hub for the entire industry, with the number of licensing deals jumping from

just 46 in 2017 to more than 200 last year. The total deal amount was just $4 billion in 2017, and rose to $57 billion last year, it said.

And figures from market intelligence firm Mergermarket indicated that large pharmaceutical transactions worth $50 million or more involving Chinese firms grew nearly 30% in 2024 compared to the

previous year.

Cui Cui, managing director of healthcare research for Jefferies, said Chinese biotech firms’ research capabilities and development efficiency are catching up, thanks to factors such as strong government support, foreign investment and a wealth of domestic talent.

“In the past, [Chinese biotech] are perceived to

IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN

•

•

assist to maintain, install, troubleshoot and fix irrigation systems.

• Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

• Must be fit and capable of standing up, bending, kneeling up to 8 hours per day

• Must have a clean police record etc.

be only copycats, but in the future, it might be able to compete with the global best-in-class pharmaceutical companies,” Cui told CNN.

DOUBTS AT HOME

But while Akeso’s achievement is making waves overseas, debate is raging in China over the quality of domestically produced generic drugs,

which have the same active ingredients as patented drugs but are much cheaper.

Distrust over the track record of domestically produced medicine runs deep in China. Such concerns spiraled into public uproar last month over the alleged questionable quality of Chinese generic drugs, which has led to an official investigation.

Science & Technology

Ancient glacier finding reveals clues to how complex life on Earth evolved, scientists say

More than half a billion years ago on a frigid, ice-covered Earth, glaciers stirred up ingredients for complex life by bulldozing land minerals and then depositing them in the ocean, according to a new study.

Inch by inch, as massive glaciers crept over frozen land toward an ice-covered sea, they scoured the ground beneath them, gouging and scraping rocks from Earth’s crust. When the glaciers eventually melted, they released a torrent of terrestrial chemicals into the ocean, researchers recently reported. Minerals swept up on land by this “glacial broom” altered marine chemistry and infused oceans with nutrients that they say may have shaped how complex life evolved.

This ancient period of deep freeze, known as the Neoproterozoic Era, or “Snowball Earth,” lasted from about 1 billion to 543 million years ago. During that time, landmasses consolidated into a supercontinent called Rodinia and then broke apart again. Earth’s earliest forms of life, such as microbes, cyanobacteria, sponges and seafloor-dwelling organisms, populated the oceans. After the end of the Neoproterozoic came the rise of more complex life, with the first appearance of marine creatures sporting armor, shells and spikes.

Scientists have attributed this evolutionary boom to increased oxygen levels in Earth’s atmosphere and in shallow ocean waters. And now, research published Tuesday in the journal Geology suggests the flowing of ancient glaciers may have directly shaped chemical changes in the ocean that were critical for the evolution of complex organisms.

Studying Snowball Earth offers a window into our planet’s past, but it also presents valuable insights into modern climate change, lead study author Dr. Chris Kirkland said.

“Our deep time geological record indicates how changing one part of Earth affects another,” he said. Right now, the dramatic warming of the planet that marks the humanfueled climate crisis is happening at breakneck speed compared with these ancient processes that took millions of years.

“This rapid pace limits Earth’s ability to naturally regulate itself, underscoring the urgency of addressing anthropogenic climate change.” FROM SNOWBALL EARTH

Ancient glaciers reshaped Earth’s surface and shifted ocean chemistry, fueling the rise of complex life, a new study found.

Glacier movement, or glaciation, is known to scrape up and ferry terrestrial sediments into oceans, lakes and rivers, forming the basis of aquatic food webs. However, researchers who study ancient Earth were previously uncertain whether Neoproterozoic glaciers moved at all, let alone enough to erode the ground beneath them and transfer minerals into the sea.

“It had been hypothesised that widespread glacial erosion of continental interiors could be caused by the Snowball Earth ice,” said Kirkland, a professor in the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Curtin University in Perth, Australia. “However, aspects of this idea were not clear because that ice may not have moved or moved only slightly or indeed even flowed.”

Kirkland and his colleagues found answers in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where they studied sediments from rock formations dating to the Neoproterozoic. The team looked at zircons — crystallized minerals that are exceptionally durable and can weather extreme geological events. Zircons also contain uranium; by measuring the stages of uranium’s decay in zircons, geologists use the minerals as chronometers for studying Earth’s past.

The researchers examined sediments dating to the time when Earth was covered with ice, and from the “hothouse Earth” period millions of years later when the ice was gone, and found the mineral composition of Snowball Earth

sediments differed dramatically from that of later sediments.

“We recovered distinctive patterns in the populations of these mineral grains,” Kirkland told CNN in an email. “In essence the ‘DNA’ fingerprint of these sedimentary rocks changed.”

The findings appear to bolster the notion of active glaciation “somewhat,” said Dr. Graham Shields, a professor of geology at University College London. Shields was not involved in the new research. However, the study did not include data from a significant glacial interval called the Marinoan, which marked the end of Snowball Earth, he told CNN in an email. Shields was also cautious about directly linking glacial erosion to the evolution of complex life.

“This connection has been proposed before but it is controversial because the linkage is assumed rather than explained,” Shields said. “Dramatic landscape change causing the emergence of macroscopic animals is a neat idea, but the paper introduces a hypothesis about glacial erosion/ weathering that can be tested, rather than settling the debate.”

MASS GLACIER THAW TRANSFORMS OCEANS

Rocks from the time of Snowball Earth contained older minerals, but also featured a range of mineral ages, hinting that the rocks were exposed and eroded over time by the scraping movement of glaciers. This evidence told the scientists that the glaciers of the Neoproterozoic

provided emerging life with the boost it needed to evolve into more complex forms.

“The idea that glacial debris from Neoproterozoic ice ages provided nutrients to support early animal evolution has been around for a while,” said Dr Andrew Knoll, a professor emeritus of Earth and planetary sciences at Harvard University, who was not involved in the new research. However, questions remain about whether the minerals poured into the ocean by Neoproterozoic glaciation would have been enough to spur longterm environmental changes with biological consequences, Knoll told CNN in an email.

were mobile. Younger rocks, from when Snowball Earth was thawing, had a narrower range of mineral ages, and more fragile grains were absent, suggesting flowing water had dissolved material that was previously ground down.

At the waning of the Neoproterozoic, one of the known changes in ocean chemistry was a rise in uranium. Other research had previously explained this increase as resulting from the rise in atmospheric oxygen, “however, our data imply that the delivery of chemical elements into the oceans also played a role in this,” Kirkland said.

“The ‘lost’ dissolved component in these rocks is seen ‘popping back up’ in changes in ocean chemistry at this time,” he added. By mapping these changes in terrestrial and marine environments, “we are imaging the transfer of chemical elements through the Earth as a system.”

The scientists reported that major glaciation events took place at least twice between 720 million and 635 million years ago. By the end of the Neoproterozoic, as Earth’s icy cover began to thaw, major chemistry shifts were taking place in Earth’s atmosphere and oceans.

“The end of these glaciations is marked by rapid increases in atmospheric and oceanic oxygen, possibly due to enhanced weathering of exposed rock surfaces and increased nutrient fluxes into the ocean,” Kirkland said. Such changes could have infused nutrient cycles and

Other research previously suggested that the impacts of glaciation events, such as the ones described in the new study, “might well have only transient consequences — a bolus of nutrients raising primary production and perhaps increasing oxygen levels, before relaxing back to the earlier state of the environment,” Knoll said. The new findings are “an interesting addition to the conversation,” he added. “But the conversation continues.”

LESSONS FOR TODAY’S CLIMATE CRISIS

From the Neoproterozoic to the present, similar processes shape climate change, including the role played by carbon dioxide (CO2) and the behaviour of feedback loops, when a process feeds into an existing aspect of Earth’s climate system and intensifies it. Ancient climate evidence also illuminates what happens during climate tipping points — when a threshold is crossed, triggering large-scale changes that are often irreversible.

Today, Earth is heating up rapidly rather than cooling gradually over time. It took millions of years for glaciation to overtake the planet during Earth’s snowball phase, while modern warming is accelerating over mere decades, “much faster than past natural climate shifts,” Kirkland said.

However, climate change’s global progress is still mapped by studying the interplay of CO2 buildup, feedback loops and tipping points, he added.

“We can see how different parts of the planet are interrelated via chemical links,” he said. “Change one part of the system, other parts also change.”

Calved icebergs from the Twin Glaciers are seen in 2013 off Greenland’s coast

Science & Technology

Epilepsy AI tool detects brain lesions doctors miss

An artificial-intelligence tool can detect two-thirds of epilepsy brain lesions doctors often miss, say the UK researchers who have developed it, paving the way for more targeted surgery to stop seizures.

One out of every five people with epilepsy - a total of 30,000 in the UK - has uncontrolled seizures caused by brain abnormalities too subtle for the human eye to see on scans.

Child epilepsy experts say the AI tool has “huge potential” and opens up avenues for treatment.

But more studies on the longterm benefits for patients are needed before it can be licensed and used in clinics.

Brain abnormalities called focal cortical dysplasia are a common cause of epilepsy, especially when medication cannot control seizures.

Seizures affect people in different ways - symptoms include jerking and shaking, becoming stiff and losing awareness - and can mean regular visits to accidentand-emergency units.

Removing a small part of the

brain can be a safe and effective way of stopping them - but if radiologists cannot see the tiny lesions on brain scans, diagnosis, treatment and surgery can be delayed.

‘REALLY DIFFICULT’

For this study, published in JAMA Neurology, the researchers, from King’s College London and University College London, fed their tool magnetic-resonanceimaging (MRI) scans from more than 1,185 adults and children at 23 hospitals around the world, 703 of whom had brain abnormalities.

The tool, MELD Graph, was able to process the images more quickly than a doctor could - and in more detail - which could mean more timely treatment and fewer costly tests and procedures, lead researcher Dr Konrad Wagstyl said.

The AI would require human oversight, however, and many of the abnormalities were still missed.

“It’s like finding one character on five pages of solid black text,” Dr Wagstyl said.

A consultant radiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital reviews the brain scan and AI report of a child with complex epilepsy

“AI can find about two-thirds that doctors miss - but a third are still really difficult to find.”

At one hospital in Italy, the tool identified a subtle lesion missed by radiologists, in a 12-year-old boy who had tried nine different medications but still had seizures every day.

Study co-author and childhood epilepsy consultant Prof Helen Cross said it had the potential “to rapidly identify abnormalities that can be removed and potentially cure the epilepsy”.

Uncontrolled epilepsy was

“incapacitating”, she said.

Many of the children she sees as a consultant at Great Ormond Street Hospital have had years of seizures and investigations before a lesion is found.

Charity Epilepsy Action said the new AI tool’s potential was “really exciting” and could give people faster diagnosis, but did not solve the issue of lack of specialist epilepsy nurses in England.

“It remains early days and, as always, we must proceed with caution,” said Ley Sander from the Epilepsy Society, adding that if the

tool could identify more people as candidates for brain surgery, that could be “life-changing for many more people with epilepsy”.

The researchers are hoping for official approval to use MELD Graph as a diagnostic tool - but other trials are needed first to investigate the long-term benefits for patients whose brain lesions are detected.

In the meantime, the research team has made the tool available on open-source software, so it can be used for clinical research by hospitals worldwide. (BBC)

Extreme heat may speed up biological ageing in older people

Extreme heat seems to speed up biological ageing in older people, suggesting that it could raise the risk of age-related diseases.

“This is one of the first largescale studies to link long-term heat exposure to biological ageing in humans,” says Eun Young Choi at the University of Southern California. “Older adults living in areas with more extreme heat days aged biologically faster than those in cooler regions.”

Choi and her colleagues analysed genetic data extracted from blood samples collected by other researchers in 2006-7 from 3600 people across the US. All were aged 56 and over at the time.

They estimated each participant’s biological age using three so-called epigenetic clocks, which involves looking at patterns of chemical tags called methyl groups on DNA. These patterns alter as we get older and such changes have been linked to agerelated diseases.

The researchers also examined daily air temperature readings taken within a few kilometres of

Researchers found that, for roughly every 200 days that participants were exposed to daily maximum temperatures of at least 32.2°C (90?), their biological age was up to 3.5 months older, on average, than those in cooler areas

where participants lived for the six years before blood samples were taken.

or people’s risk of diseases, says Argentieri. “More work that can tie together both exposure to extreme heat, biological ageing from these clocks, and the influence on agerelated diseases, mortality or lifespan itself, would really help drive home what we should take away from this.”

What’s more, the study didn’t account for access to air conditioning or how long participants spent outdoors, which would alter their personal exposure to heat, says Argentieri. The team did control for other factors such as age, sex, race, wealth, ethnicity, smoking status, alcohol consumption, obesity and physical activity.

They found that, for roughly every 200 days in that six-year period that participants were exposed to daily maximum temperatures of at least 32.2°C (90?), their biological age was up to 3.5 months older, on average, than those in cooler areas. That figure varied depending on which clock was used.

Harvard University, who wasn’t involved in the study.

“This points to heat exposure increasing the speed of biological ageing,” says Austin Argentieri at

Previous studies on people in Taiwan and Germany have also found a link between extreme heat exposure and biological ageing.

But epigenetic clocks don’t perfectly capture the ageing process

Further studies should explore whether the results translate to younger people, or those living in different countries where people may have different approaches to keeping cool, says Argentieri.

Pinpointing who is at most risk of ageing faster due to extreme heat could help policymakers develop and deploy measures to protect them, he says.

(Newscientist.com)

Science & Technology

Scientists say they’ve discovered why Mars is red

With its iconic rusty hue, Mars has long been called the red planet. Now, scientists may have discovered the potential source of that distinctive coloring, overturning a popular theory in the process.

Mars is one of the most wellstudied planets in our solar system due to its proximity to Earth and the numerous spacecraft that have visited over the past few decades. Together, orbiters and landers have provided scientists with data showing that Mars’ red color comes from rusted iron minerals within the dust that coats the planet.

At some point, iron within rocks on Mars reacted with water or water and oxygen in the air, creating iron oxide — much in the same way rust forms on Earth. Over billions of years, the iron oxide broke down into dust and settled across the planet after being moved by Martian winds, which still spins up dust devils and massive dust storms.

Previous analyses of iron oxide on Mars, based only on observations by spacecraft, didn’t detect any evidence of water, which led researchers to believe that the iron oxide must be hematite. The dry mineral, a main component of iron ore, was thought to have formed through reactions with the Martian atmosphere in a process that occurred over billions of years. If that was the case, the hematite would have formed later in Mars’ history, after it was suspected of hosting lakes and rivers on its surface.

New research combining data from multiple missions and replicated Martian dust has suggested a mineral that forms in the presence of cool water may be responsible for the red hue, rather than hematite, which could change the way scientists understand what Mars was like millions of years ago — and whether it was

The European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission captured this view of Mars as it flew past on February 24, 2007

potentially habitable. A team of scientists reported the findings Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications.

“Mars is still the Red Planet,” said lead study author Adomas Valantinas, a postdoctoral fellow in the department of Earth, environmental and planetary sciences at Brown University, in a statement. “It’s just that our understanding of why Mars is red has been transformed.”

SIFTING THROUGH THE DUST

Scientists have wondered about the exact composition of the iron oxide in Martian dust, because understanding how it formed would enable them to essentially look back in time at what the environment and climate were like

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.

iron oxide could be responsible for the red component of Mars dust, which would be helpful to work out as that could help us determine which process produced the dust and when that occurred,” Horgan said.

Valantinas and his team made use of data collected by the European Space Agency’s Mars Express orbiter and the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter, as well as NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and the Curiosity, Pathfinder, and Opportunity rovers.

The Trace Gas Orbiter’s CaSSIS color camera, also known as the Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System, revealed the exact size and composition of dust particles on Mars, allowing the researchers to make their own version on Earth.

The scientists created their own Martian dust in a laboratory using different types of iron oxide. The replica dust was put through a specialized grinder to create grains equal in size to those on Mars with a thickness equivalent to 1/100th of a human hair.

on ancient Mars.

However, even though dust covers everything on Mars, it’s difficult to study and presents an enigma, said Briony Horgan, coinvestigator on the Perseverance rover mission and professor of planetary science at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. Horgan was not involved in the study.

“The particles (of oxidized iron) are so small (nanometers or less) that they don’t really have a defined crystal structure and can’t be called true minerals,” Horgan said. “There are ways to form oxidized iron without water, and some proposed dry processes include surface oxidation like the oxidation rinds that form in rocks in the Antarctic Dry Valleys, and surface oxidation by abrasion as the surface is blasted with sand grains over long periods. But there are also lots of ways to oxidize with water too, including in soils and lakes.”

The new analysis points to a different type of iron oxide that contains water called ferrihydrite, which forms quickly in cool water — and likely formed on Mars when water could still exist on the surface before the planet grew colder and more inhospitable. Previous research has suggested ferrihydrite as a possible cause of Mars’ redness, but the new study has combined lab methods with observational data for the first time to offer up evidence.

“This paper is trying to figure out which specific poorly crystalline

Valantinas said.

Romans named Mars for their god of war because its color was reminiscent of blood and Egyptians called the planet “Her Desher,” meaning “the red one,” according to the European Space Agency.

Discovering that Mars’ hue may be due to a water-containing rusty mineral like ferrihydrite, as opposed to hematite’s waterless form of rust, surprised the researchers, Valantinas said. But it provides intriguing clues about Mars’ geologic and climate history, he said.

The team analysed the dust with X-ray machines and reflectance spectrometers, similar to the techniques used by orbiters studying Mars as they circle the planet. Then, the scientists compared the lab data with spacecraft data.

Mars Express’ OMEGA reflectance spectrometer showed that even the dustiest parts of Mars hold evidence of waterrich minerals, while data from CaSSIS pointed to the presence of ferrihydrite as the best match for dust on Mars, rather than hematite, when compared with the lab samples, Valantinas said.

The instrument has been observing Mars since April 2018, capturing high-resolution color images of the Martian surface, said Nicolas Thomas, a professor at the Physics Institute at the University of Bern in Switzerland who led the team that developed the camera.

“We found that ferrihydrite mixed with basalt, a volcanic rock, best fits the minerals seen by spacecraft at Mars,” said Valantinas, who began his research at the University of Bern using Trace Gas Orbiter data. “The major implication is that because ferrihydrite could only have formed when water was still present on the surface, Mars rusted earlier than we previously thought. Moreover, the ferrihydrite remains stable under present-day conditions on Mars.”

A WATERY PAST

The mystery of Mars’ red hue has persisted for thousands of years,

“Since this water-containing rust blankets most of the Martian surface, it suggests that liquid water in Mars’ ancient past may have been more widespread than previously thought,” Valantinas said. “This suggests that Mars once had an environment where liquid water was present, which is an essential prerequisite for life. Our study reveals that ferrihydrite formation on Mars required the presence of both oxygen — whether from the atmosphere or other sources — and water capable of reacting with iron.”

The study wasn’t focused on determining when exactly the mineral formed. However, since ferrihydrite forms in cool water, it’s possible that it was created about 3 billion years ago, as opposed to when the planet was warmer and wetter millions of years before.

“This was a time of intense volcanic activity on Mars that likely triggered ice-melting events and interactions between water and rock, providing conditions favorable for ferrihydrite formation,” Valantinas said. “The timing aligns with a period when Mars was transitioning from its earlier, wetter state to its current desert environment.”

It’s possible that in addition to being in the dust, ferrihydrite is also in layers of Martian rock. And the best way to tell will be to obtain actual samples of rocks and dust from the red planet. The Perseverance rover has already collected multiple samples containing both, and NASA and ESA are hoping to use a complex series of missions under the Mars Sample Return program to return them to Earth by the early 2030s.

“Once we get these precious samples into the lab, we’ll be able to measure exactly how much ferrihydrite the dust contains, and what this means for our understanding of the history of water — and the possibility for life — on Mars,” said Colin Wilson, ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter and Mars Express project scientist, in a statement.

UFC & WWE owners ‘close’ to Saudi deal for boxing league

Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount by Major League Soccer after grabbing the neck of an opposition coach.

At the end of the game between Inter Miami and New York City FC on Saturday, Messi put a hand on the back of NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy’s neck as he walked off the field.

Moments before, the reigning league MVP had been given a yellow card after a heated exchange with the referee.

“The MLS Disciplinary Committee has fined Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi an undisclosed amount for violating the hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent policy following the conclusion of Inter Miami’s

match against New York City FC on February 22,” said a statement from the league on Tuesday.

Messi’s teammate Luis Suárez was also fined an undisclosed amount for a similar gesture in the game, grabbing the back of NYCFC defender Birk Risa’s neck at the end of the first half.

CNN has contacted Inter Miami for comment on the fines.

The match, which was the teams’ first of the MLS season, ended 2-2 after Telasco Segovia scored a stoppage-time equaliser for Miami.

Inter Miami had been reduced to 10 players midway through the first half when scorer Tomás Avilés was adjudged to have fouled Alonso Martínez in front of goal, despite appearing to win the ball.

TKO Group Holdings, which owns the UFC and WWE, says it is “close to an agreement” to form a new boxing league funded by Saudi Arabia.

It has been reported Saudi Arabian investors are keen to form a league after investing significantly to regularly host heavyweight fights including Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk in the kingdom.

The UFC and WWE hold events in Saudi, as do boxing promoters Matchroom and Queensberry, and TKO president and chief operating officer Mark Shapiro told investors on Wednesday about the possible boxing deal.

“We are close to an agreement with the Saudis on a creation of a boxing league where TKO would

be the producer, the promoter and responsible for all day-to-day operations of the venture, whereby we would receive a fee of $10m (£7.8m) plus,” Shapiro said.

“We’re not putting any money in, we’re not putting any capital in, we’re not on the hook for any [costs].”

It is unclear what the league would look like and who would compete in it, with most of boxing’s biggest stars under contract with key promoters such as Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom, Bob Arum’s Top Rank and Frank Warren’s Queensberry.

Shapiro also said TKO would be responsible for overseeing “four large scale super-fights” across 2025 and 2026.

“Those may or may not fall into

the boxing league itself, they may just be one-offs, but we would be paid a fee to act as the promoter, the producer and the event operator,” he said.

Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s general entertainment authority, has been the face of Saudi involvement in boxing in recent years.

Saudi influence over the sport has increased significantly, with many of boxing’s biggest events taking place in the kingdom including Fury’s two bouts against Usyk in 2024.

Events have also taken place outside Saudi under the ‘Riyadh Season’ banner, one in Los Angeles headlined by Terence Crawford and one at Wembley Stadium headlined by Daniel Dubois.

Ferrari’s Hamilton ‘really enjoying’ new car

Lewis Hamilton said he was “really enjoying” his new Ferrari as he set the second-fastest time on day two of Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain.

The seven-time champion, who has moved to the Italian team this year after 12 seasons with Mercedes, was pipped to fastest lap by 0.031 seconds by Williams’ Carlos Sainz.

Charles Leclerc, who took over the Ferrari from the seventime champion for the post-lunch session, was third fastest, just 0.052secs behind Hamilton.

Hamilton said: “I am really enjoying the car. We’re slowly bonding. Yesterday was a so-so day, just OK. But we got through all our run-plan. I was not doing set-up changes or directing where I want the car to go.

“Today was a bit more getting to explore a bit my interaction with my engineer.”

Both Sainz and Leclerc had spins

Lando Norris were 13th and 14th

Pre-season testing is a notoriously unreliable indicator of actual competitive performance because factors such as fuel loads and engine modes are not revealed by the teams and have a major impact on performance. And despite Sainz’s fastest time, Williams team principal James Vowles underlined that his team were not fast enough to compete at the front this year.

“The top four are the top four,” Vowles said. “McLaren, Ferrari, Red Bull and Mercedes have all done good work over the winter.

“The midfield is going to be very tight and if I’m getting it right, 0.1secs separates a lot of us.” Red Bull’s world champion Max Verstappen did not drive while team-mate Liam Lawson was in the car all day, ending up seventh fastest; Verstappen will drive on the final day on Friday.

Leclerc said before running in the afternoon: “It’s only testing. Everyone is hiding their true performance but the feeling is pretty good. No bad surprises but too early to judge performances.”

Norris said in the news conference before driving in the second session: “We have just tried to make the car quicker all round. Add more load. If we want to improve anything at the moment, it’s the rear but the rest of it feels correct and feels in the same ball park.

Lewis Hamilton was quickest in the morning session on day two of testing in Bahrain

during the say - Sainz’s at Turn One and Leclerc’s at the final cornerjust as they were starting flying laps.

Mercedes drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli were fourth and fifth fastest. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and

fastest.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi fined for grabbing the neck of an opposition coach

UFC is run by Dana White (left) while former wrestler Triple H, real name Paul Levesque, is the chief content officer at WWE

Sports International

WNBA all-time leading scorer Diana Taurasi announces retirement from basketball

Women’s basketball legend Diana Taurasi announced her retirement Tuesday after more than 20 years in the WNBA.

Widely recognized as one of the greatest players of all time, the 42-year-old spent her entire career with the Phoenix Mercury, helping the team to all three of its WNBA championships in 2007, 2009 and 2014.

Taurasi is the league’s all-time leading scorer with 10,646 points, almost 3,000 more than secondplace Tina Charles.

In addition to her success with the Mercury, Taurasi was a member of the US women’s national basketball teams which won six out of six Olympic gold medals between 2004 and 2024, meaning she has more gold medals than any other basketball player in Olympic history. She also competed in Europe for Dynamo Moscow, Spartak Moscow, Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray and UMMC Ekaterinburg, winning six EuroLeague titles.

Taurasi usually starts working out four months prior to the beginning of the team’s training camp, but last month she came to the realization it was time to walk away from the game she loves.

“Mentally and physically, I’m just full,” Taurasi said in an exclusive Time interview.

“That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy.”

After leading UConn to three consecutive NCAA championships, the California native was selected by Phoenix with the first pick of the 2004 WNBA draft. She received the league’s Rookie of the Year award in her debut season, with the following year seeing her named to the All-Star team for the first time of 11 selections.

As for whether she considers herself the greatest of all time, Taurasi said, “I have a resume. It’s not up to me to grade it.”

She continued: “My scoring

Ireland’s O’Mahony, Healy and Murray to retire

Ireland’s Peter O’Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray will retire from international rugby at the end of this year’s Six Nations.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) confirmed that Ireland’s former captain O’Mahony and most-capped player Healy will retire from rugby at the end of the season, while Murray will “pursue a playing opportunity abroad” when his Munster deal concludes this summer.

All three players are five-time Six Nations champions, two-time Grand Slam winners and have earned over 100 caps for Ireland.

O’Mahony, Healy and Murray will hope to secure a sixth Six Nations title and third Grand Slam by helping Ireland win their final two matches against France and Italy.

“Hi everyone, we’ve got some news to share: this will be our last Six Nations in green,” the trio said

in a video posted on Ireland’s X account.

“It’s been an unbelievable journey... but the job isn’t done and we’ve a big couple of weeks ahead.

“The three of us have done some very special things together but we’re not done yet.

“Your support over the years has been incredible and has never gone unnoticed, so thank you and we hope to see you in the Aviva [Stadium] one last time next weekend [against France].”

Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby said it has been a “privilege” to work with O’Mahony, Healy and Murray since 2014, when he joined the coaching set-up.

“They have each played a huge role in the success of Irish rugby over the course of their careers and they continue to inspire their teammates around them,” said Easterby.

record, or the six gold medals, someone’s going to come around that has the same hunger, the same addiction to basketball, and put those records in a different way, a different name.

“That’s what sports is all about. That’s going to be fun to watch. Hopefully not soon.”

She had arguably her best season in 2009, when she was named WNBA regular season MVP and Finals MVP as she led the league in points and the Mercury won the championship, becoming only the second player after Cynthia Cooper-Dyke to achieve all four honors in the same season.

Taurasi’s achievements have played a huge part in the growth of the women’s game and, coming off the back of the most high-profile season in WNBA history, the 42-year-old reflected on how women’s basketball has progressed.

“It’s in such a great place,” she told ABC’s Robin Roberts on Wednesday. “We’ve been involved in basketball for so long, and to finally see it on the biggest stage, it just makes you feel really good. These women, not only in basketball, in all sports, we give up our lives. We sacrifice everything to be the best at our profession.

“To see the recognition we are getting, more in a mainstream way, it feels good for a lot of us that have been in it. Whether player, coach, staff, front office. A lot of people love this game and they’ve been putting everything into it. Now, finally, we’re seeing what the other side looks like.”

“Diana is the greatest to have ever played the game. I’ve been a fan of her my entire life, she is the ultimate leader and teammate,” Mercury owner Mat Ishbia said in a statement. “She’s had an incredible impact on our franchise, our community and the game of basketball. Her name is synonymous with the Phoenix Mercury and she will forever be part of our family.”

WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert added: “On behalf of the WNBA family, I thank Diana for everything that she has brought to the WNBA – her passion, her charisma and, most of all, her relentless dedication to the game.

“She leaves a lasting legacy and the future of the WNBA is in a great position because of her impact, that will be felt for generations to come.”

Taurasi had been mulling over the decision to retire for some time, having given an emotional address to Phoenix fans from the court in September following her final regular-season game of 2024.

Peter O’Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray have a combined 372 Test caps

“Watching how openly they engage with players in their own position and continue to add value around the set-up is testament to their collective character and they are also adding real value on the pitch.

“Knowing each of the guys, they will be focused on achieving

even more success this season and we are determined as a group to end their careers with Ireland on a high over these last two rounds.”

O’Mahony, 35, has won 112 Ireland caps since making his international debut against Italy in 2012. Last year, he took over as captain following Johnny Sexton’s

retirement and led the side to the Six Nations title. He was replaced as captain by Caelan Doris before the November internationals, and while he was not in the squad for the opening Six Nations win over England, he started the victories over Scotland and Wales.

Diana Taurasi scored her 10,000th career point against the Atlanta Dream on August 3, 2023

Tucker calls inappropriate sexual misconduct allegations against him “heart-breaking”

Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker called the multiple sexual misconduct allegations leveled against him “so shocking and heart-breaking” in his first public statement in almost a month.

According to the Baltimore Banner, a total of 16 massage therapists have accused Tucker of inappropriate sexual behaviour in alleged incidents between 2012 and 2016. Tucker has always vehemently denied the allegations.

In a statement sent to CNN from Tucker’s attorneys on Wednesday, Tucker once again denied the accusations and said that he “never intended to disrespect anyone.”

“I maintain I did not act inappropriately at any point before, during, or after a professional bodywork treatment session, nor have I ever been told I am unwelcome at any massage therapy provider,” Tucker said. “These claims are simply not true.

“Throughout the last four weeks, I have spent countless hours replaying every interaction I have had with bodywork professionals over the last thirteen years. I can assure whoever is reading this that I have never intended to disrespect anyone, cross any boundary, or make anyone feel uncomfortable in any way whatsoever.

“It devastates me to know that anyone I have worked with would not have felt respected and valued as a professional, but more importantly as a person, and to anyone who has felt otherwise, I am sorry. I want you to know I am committed to ensuring that everyone I interact with continues

to feel that I respect them and care about them as a human being.

“Physical therapy and massage therapy are a large part of why I’ve been consistently healthy and available during the football season. In fact, both my wife and I continue to count so many of those professionals as our friends. I absolutely respect the massage therapy profession and more so the individuals who work as massage therapists.”

In a statement sent to CNN following Tucker’s comments Wednesday, Michael Belsky of SBWD Law Firm in Baltimore, the attorney for the accusers, said: “Facts corroborating the allegations, including incidents of timely reporting to the spa owners of the incidents by affected therapists, are documented and an integral part of our investigation.

“We do not represent the spa owners, only the therapists.

Whether the owners acted appropriately and in protection of their respective employees when faced with complaints is a completely separate issue.”

Belsky’s statement alludes to several sworn declarations from spa owners where Tucker reportedly received treatments, including one which Tucker’s attorneys sent the Banner from the owner of one of two spas which the Baltimore outlet said had banned the NFL kicker due to his behavior, reportedly saying she never received complaints about him. In addition, the attorneys told the Banner that Tucker hasn’t been banned from any spas.

In the declaration sent to the Banner, the owner also reportedly said: “Based on my conversations with employees of the spa, my understanding is that Mr. Tucker had an excellent reputation among the massage therapists and

other employees with whom he interacted.”

On Tuesday, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta called the allegations against the Tucker “serious” and “concerning” in a news conference.

Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Tuesday, DeCosta’s comments were the first public statement anyone from the Ravens have made since the allegations were first reported on January 30.

“The amount of allegations are serious and concerning,” DeCosta told reporters. “I think we’re fortunate that the league is doing an investigation. We’ll wait as patiently as we can for as much information as we can. We’ll make our decisions based on that.”

In a statement posted on X last month, Tucker said: “I cannot allow false claims to go unchallenged. I cannot be any clearer. These allegations are false and incredibly hurtful to both me and, more importantly, my family.”

When the first allegations were reported in January, the NFL said it took “any allegation seriously” and that it was investigating them. When contacted by CNN after the Banner reported the seven new accusers last week, the NFL said: “The matter remains under review of the Personal Conduct Policy.”

According to three of the accusers who spoke to the Banner, the NFL has been in Baltimore recently interviewing them for further information.

DeCosta said that he has met with the league and also spoken

to Tucker, but would “keep those comments to myself.”

“I think in this case we’re awaiting as much information as possible,” DeCosta said. “Again, we’re fortunate that the league has come down to Baltimore, met with the league. I believe the league is meeting with other people in Baltimore as well. We’ll wait for the details of that investigation, and we’ll make a decision based on that.”

Later on Tuesday, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters that he’d also spoken to Tucker about the allegations.

“The NFL is looking into it,” Harbaugh said. “They’re going to review it, try to gather all the facts, and I’m sure we’ll have an understanding of it at that time. Once there’s an understanding of it, then you have a chance to make some decisions.”

When asked about the accusations, Harbaugh added: “It’s not what you want to wake up and read. It’s not something you want to see … things that are hurtful and harmful to people, painful – there’s too many headlines like that.”

The Banner’s original report says the first six accusers did not file lawsuits or contact law enforcement and the latest report does not indicate whether the other 10 have done so.

No charges have been filed.

However, the Banner said that Belsky told the outlet that he and his law firm are “continuing to gather the facts and the chronology of events, in order to see where that leads us.”

Long jump athlete Alice Hopkins said she was “over the moon” after winning a gold medal at the British Indoor Athletics Championships at the weekend.

The 26-year-old from the Oxford City Athletic Club jumped a personal best of 6.59m in Birmingham to claim her first ever indoor gold.

“It feels amazing to be British indoor champion,” Hopkins told BBC Radio Oxford.

“It was one of my goals this season to get this as last year I picked up the silver outdoors. I wanted to step it up again and I’m

over the moon to get it.

“It puts me 11th in the all-time indoor list so that was another nice bonus.”

Thame-based athlete Hopkins, who has also previously competed in the heptathlon events, said she is hoping for further success in the upcoming outdoor season.

“I’m looking forward to it and I want to get the gold there. I’m aiming for the world outdoor championships in Tokyo this September,” she said.

“To get the PB really boosts my confidence going into the outdoor

Ravens kicker Justin Tucker warms up prior to Baltimore’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 1, 2024

Alice Hopkins won gold in the long jump at the British Athletics Championships

Hopkins ‘over the moon’ with long jump gold

and makes my targets look really achievable.”

Road Dogs Running Club shines in international debut at A1A Half Marathon

The Road Dogs Running Club made a strong impression at their first official international competition, participating in the 20th Annual A1A Half Marathon in Fort Lauderdale over the weekend. Formed just six months ago to unite runners from diverse backgrounds, the club celebrated a milestone event, as seven of its members took on the 13.1mile race. Each runner achieved personal bests, with four members completing the race in under two

hours—a remarkable feat for the team’s international debut.

Leading the pack was AliDavidson Higgs, who clocked an impressive 1:49:32, the fastest time among the Road Dogs. His fellow club members also

delivered strong performances: Darado Fulford finished in 1:50:53, Reno Palmer in 1:52:46, Leo Lightbourne in 1:57:57, Kenrico Hall in 2:00:08, Dexter Williams in 2:03:12, and Omard Gardiner in 2:25:05.

Johnson runs under 58 seconds at SW Isaac Henry Invitational in Jamaica

Roniesha Johnson from Excelsior High School, delivered an impressive performance at the SW Isaac Henry Invitational recently held at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica.

Competing in the 400m event, Johnson recorded a time of 57.80, securing 3rd place in her heat and finishing 5th overall.

Johnson, who will turn 18 later this year, is no stranger to success on the track. She is the current national record holder in the event, having set a remarkable time of 57.30s at the High School Championships in Jamaica in March 2024.

This record-breaking achievement surpassed the previous record held by Akia Guerrier, who set a time of 57.49 at the 2015 Carifta Games in Basseterre, St. Kitts, on April 3, 2015.

AliDavidson Higgs Darado Fulford Reno Palmer Leo Lightbourne

Dexter Williams Kenrico Hall

Omard Gardiner

Roniesha Johnson finished third in her heat

PHL playoffs start this week

Former TCI footballer Glinton named full-time head coach of Oakland Roots SC

The United Soccer League’s (USL) Oakland Roots SC is set to begin the 2025 season under the experienced guidance of Gavin Glinton, who has been appointed as the club’s fulltime head coach.

Gavin Glinton, a former Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) footballer, brings an illustrious career to his new role. His playing career highlights include winning the MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield with the LA Galaxy in 2002.

Glinton’s coaching journey is equally impressive, having gained invaluable experience at elite football clubs such as Barcelona, Ajax, Schalke, Bayer Leverkusen, and Borussia Monchengladbach. His tenure as a key assistant coach at New Mexico United further solidified his coaching credentials, making him a sought-after figure in the football community.

The Provo Hockey League (PHL) playoffs will bully off this Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre in Providenciales.

Six games will be played on the opening day, including in the Novice, Bantam and Junior divisions.

A total of three rounds will be played over the next three weeks, before the playoff finals commence on March 22.

The Saunders and Co Greyhounds are the only unbeaten team after the completion of the regular season. The side sits comfortably at the top of the Novice Division with 17 points

from nine games (eight wins and a draw). The Design Studio Jets are second on 12 points; the Projetech Pirates third on seven points and the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders in fourth.

When they battle this Saturday, the Greyhounds will meet the Islanders and the Jets will battle the Pirates in the opening round.

The Temple Financial Panthers are ahead in the Bantam Division on 15 points from nine games (seven wins, one loss and one draw); while the Turkberry Hurricanes are second on 11 points from nine games (five wins, three losses and a draw) with the Twa

Marcelin Wolf Lightning and the Ritz Carlton Flyers tied in third position on five points each.

In their opening round of the playoffs, the Panthers will play the Flyers and the Lightning will meet the Hurricanes.

The Junior Division is much closer, with the L’Heureux and Co Canadiens and the Tibor’s Sharks tied on 10 points each from nine games, with the Kvanar Oilers in third on nine points and the Parrot Cay Canucks in fourth on seven points.

In their opening round of the playoffs, the Canadiens will meet tahe Canucks, while the Sharks will battle against the Oilers.

Morris wins MVP in Hugh Campbell Basketball Championships

Dylan Morris led the Tabernacle Baptist Falcons to a scintillating victory in the 2025 Hugh Campbell Basketball Championships on Monday at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium in the Bahamas.

Morris, a distinguished athlete of the TCI Sports Commission Athletes’ Assistance Programme (AAP), led the side to a thrilling overtime victory against defending champions, C.I. Gibson Rattlers.

Morris scored crucial buckets to finish with 22 points and nine rebounds, which earned him the title of Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Gavin Glinton

Dylan Morris finished with 22 points and nine boards

The Canadiens and Oilers are separated by one point in the Junior Division