TC Weekly News, March 22-28, 2025

CORRUPTION TRIALS COST WEIGH ON TCI

The almost decade-long court proceedings into alleged government corruption racked up millions of dollars a year in bills picked up by local taxpayers. Now, as the sun sets on another financial year, hopes are high that the looming closure of the case – after the evidentiary component finally ended last week - will free up funds as the territory awaits the verdicts.

Elections petition for fresh elections will be heard at trial, Judge rules

BY DELANA ISLES

Justice Chris Selochan has determined that he will hear the arguments presented by counsel for the People’s Democratic Movement’s leadership regarding the necessity of holding fresh elections in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

That decision was made on Thursday, March 20, in a Providenciales court. The judge ruled that the petition – brought by Leader of the PDM, Hon Edwin Astwood and Deputy Leader Robert Been - has merit and as such will go to trial.

Judge Selochan as such dismissed the Attorney General’s application to strike out the PDM’s claims.

He, however, dismissed the PDM’s claims that there was corruption and bribery in the election process. The opposition was claiming that the PNP party bought votes.

The trial is expected to start in early May.

THE PETITION FOR TRIAL

Shortly after the February 7 general election, the PDM Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Hon Astwood and PDM’s Deputy Leader Been filed a petition against the Supervisor of Elections and the Attorney General, citing irregularities in the ballot papers used in this month’s general elections, among other discrepancies.

The party is seeking to have the election and return of the members declared null and void and to order a new Writ of Election for fresh parliamentary elections.

They are also requesting that the counterfoils to the ballot papers and/or the ballots for the All Island be scrutinised.

Along with the irregularities, the petition cites machine malfunctions and voter disenfranchisement, as well as allegations of bribery and corruption.

The petition filed on February 14 by Geordins Law Firm, claims that the ballot papers used in the election failed to comply with legal requirements in that: a single ballot paper was used for both electoral district and All Islands votes, in contravention of the Ordinance; the ballot paper was of a uniformed colour, instead of the legally required two distinct colours; and the ballot papers were not published by the Supervisor of Elections in accordance with section 6 of the Ordinance.

It outlined that during the manual recount of the ballots in at least two districts, it was discovered that approximately 20 ballot papers had been cast with

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the voters only voting for the All Island candidates and not the electoral district candidates. It cites the possibility of voter confusion. According to the petition various polling stations experienced machine malfunctions: “In electoral district 9, the voting machine at the station serving voters with surnames A-J malfunctioned, causing delays and forcing the station to open late.

“The machine failed again at 12:00 pm, preventing eligible voters from casting ballots for approximately forty (40) minutes. The machine experienced further failure at 5:00 pm, disrupting the voting process and effectively disenfranchising voters who were unable to cast ballots before the polls closed.

“In Electoral District No. 3 (South Caicos), the voting

machines failed to read ballots correctly due to the incorrect type of ink being used on pens provided at the polling station.”

It noted that these technical failures directly impacted voter participation and undermined the integrity of the election, constituting a breach of the fundamental right to vote as protected by law and the Constitution of the TCI.

According to the PDM’s petition, there was also an unlawful denial of a recount request. It cited that a request for a recount was made by Anthony Walkin, the PDM candidate for electoral district 8 (Blue Hills), and separately by a PDM representative seeking a recount of the All Islands ballots. The petition states that the Supervisor of Elections wrongfully refused the recount request, citing procedural irregularities. This refusal, the party said, was unjustified, as the request was made at the earliest reasonable opportunity, in accordance with electoral procedures.

Contentious service charge tax under review by the PNP government

BY DELANA ISLES

Seven years after the House of Assembly passed the contentious Service Charge Bill, the current PNP government is revisiting the issue, this time launching an online survey to gauge public perception of how the charge is being administered.

The survey opened on 14 March and will close on 11 April. According to the government, the survey will allow them to gather valuable insights from residents, employees, and employers in the service industry regarding the administration and application of the charge across the hotel and restaurant sector.

They said: “The findings of the survey will inform policy decisions and ensure that service charge application is aligned with the intention of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hotel and Restaurant Service Charge Ordinance Chapter 19.10.”

That intention, according to the 2018 Ordinance passed by the then PDM government, was to put more money in the pockets of hospitality and tourism workers, giving them 100% of the 10% service charge automatically billed to customers.

“The workers will actually be getting more money. They would have gotten 16 percent of 18 percent,

but now they are getting 100 of the ten percent,” former Premier, Hon Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson had explained back in 2018.

The bill – though passed – faced staunch objections from the PNP – the then opposition. The most vocal opposition came from Hon. Josephine Connolly – a PDM member when the idea of the charge was first introduced.

She previously campaigned under the PDM Government’s promise to pay the workers all of the service charges collected by establishments in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

After cutting ties with the party, she shared her views in 2018 as an independent candidate: “In my view, this ordinance is illconsidered and fatally flawed and appears to have been prepared in haste in an attempt to pacify unsuspecting and gullible workers in the industry. The fatal flaw in the bill is that the resorts have been given the option to simply not charge a service charge. In other words, to opt-out.”

Premier C. Washington Misick - then the Opposition leader – had strongly objected to the bill, firmly and repeatedly stating his lack of support for it. According to him, the PDM had painted themselves into a corner on the service charge

issue during the 2016 election campaign season.

His government is now reviewing how the charge has been working for the people since that time.

Key objectives of the survey are to understand public sentiment toward current service charge practices; identify areas for improvement in transparency and fairness; assess the impact of service charges, consumer behaviour and business operations; and gather recommendations for potential policy reforms.

Posters with QR codes and links will be posted throughout communities at local grocery stores for residents to access the survey. Similar postings will also be available at various hotels and restaurants.

The government said that all responses will remain confidential and will be used solely for research purposes and to advance policy change as needed.

They said they are committed to ensuring that employees receive an equitable share of service charges in the Turks and Caicos Islands, creating an environment that benefits all employees and businesses in the industry. The survey can be accessible online via at the link (https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/9L6DGJ7)

PDM Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood

PDM’s Deputy Leader Robert Been

TCI weighs hefty cost of corruption trials

BY GEMMA HANDY

It’s been one of the longest criminal trials in modern history, coupled with one of the largest civil recovery programmes in the world – and likely among the costliest too.

The almost decade-long court proceedings into alleged government corruption racked up millions of dollars a year in bills picked up by local taxpayers, even as TCI struggled in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and a global pandemic that severely restricted its economic mainstay for three years.

Now, as the sun sets on another financial year, hopes are high that the looming closure of the case –after the evidentiary component finally ended last week - will free up funds as the territory awaits the verdicts.

The trial started in the wake of the explosive 2008 Commission of Inquiry which found a high probability of systemic corruption among government, the legislature and public officials, much of it centring on the sale of Crown land.

Charges were first filed in 2011 and the case opened in December 2015.

The UK paid several million dollars towards costs prior to 2012, but Weekly News analysis of the last 13 annual budgets – from 2012-3 to the current financial year which ends this month – shows taxpayers have stumped up a colossal $75 million.

The $74,211,768 listed covers legal aid and other costs including the judge and transcripts, civil recovery court costs and expenses, and criminal recovery action expenses. The price tag for the defendants’ legal aid alone comes to just over $34 million.

Seventeen years ago, as the Michael Misick-led government found itself at the centre of an epochal controversy, the clamour for justice rang loud.

Hindsight is 20/20 of course. Notwithstanding what verdicts may ensue, one might be hard pushed to find many who think the case was value for money now.

Some of the figures speak for themselves.

The amount spent is said to significantly outweigh the total value of the alleged misdeeds. Charges related to the key, and three remaining, defendants –former Premier Michael Misick, lawyer Chalmers Misick, and ex-Natural Resources Minister

The trial started in the wake of the explosive 2008 Commission of Inquiry which found a high probability of systemic corruption among government, the legislature and public officials

HOW DOES THE SCALE OF THE TRIALS COMPARE TO OTHER CASES?

• UK: The longest criminal trial in UK history is believed to be the case of Edwin and Lorraine McLaren, a property fraud trial that began in September 2015 and lasted 320 court days.

• UK: The 2014 Newscorp phone hacking scandal is believed to have cost a whopping £95 million (circa US$150 million using exchange rates at the time), making it the most expensive criminal case in Britain. This figure included court costs, legal fees and the resources ploughed in to the extensive police investigation.

• USA: The McMartin Preschool Abuse Trial is said to be the longest and most expensive criminal trial in US history. The government spent seven years and $15 million dollars investigating and prosecuting a case that led to no convictions.

McAllister Hanchell – equate to around $20 million.

The civil recovery process which seeks to return inappropriately acquired land and money to public coffers also appears to have cost more than the amount clawed back.

When claims of corruption first abounded, the PDM party were at the helm of demands for investigations.

Current leader Edwin Astwood tells the Weekly News: “Right now, whether the defendants are innocent or guilty, people have lost their appetite for this case and want to see it come to an end.

“It’s been going on for far too long and we are happy to see it come to a close. For years it’s been eating up so much of our national budget; there is a lot that could have been done with even half of that money.”

Astwood hopes the cessation of proceedings will mean more funds for youth training and scholarships, along with beefing up national security, and addressing the lack of affordable housing.

“A lot of people, even professionals, find it hard to

purchase a home or even build one. Access to housing is a serious problem here and with more and more hotels being built, where will the people who work at them live?”

The PDM leader believes Britain should have shouldered more of the financial burden of the case it initiated.

This June will see closing arguments delivered from both sides. The Misick brothers and Hanchell are accused of bribery, conspiracy to defraud, and concealing or disguising the proceeds of criminal conduct.

In late 2023, former Deputy Premier Floyd Hall and attorney Clayton Greene were sentenced to 12 months and six months behind bars, respectively. Hall was found guilty of bribery and Greene of concealing the proceeds of criminal conduct. Judgements on subsequent appeals remain pending with both men currently on bail.

Astwood believes few would want to see former ministers behind bars these days.

“Most of us in the opposition

now were not directly involved at the time, and most of us do not have the appetite to see them go to jail.

“But if found guilty they should pay – whether it’s a fine, giving up property or being banned from politics - if they have done something wrong, they should pay,” he adds.

Businessman and columnist Drexwell Seymour has long maintained TCI should not have been forced to foot the court bill alone.

“I feel the UK should have paid as they initiated it. Our country was suffering a financial crisis at the time,” he says. “At the same time I understand their point of view; we caused it and so should pay. But it’s been a burden on us and I am so happy it’s almost over.”

Certified public accountant Seymour believes the money could have been better spent on capital projects, like the redevelopment of the international airport, enhancing the community college, and improving infrastructure such as roads.

“It’s a breath of fresh air that we can finally put this case behind us,” he adds. “I know justice has to be served and it had to go through the court system but the amount of money it’s cost seems more than the actual total of allegations against the defendants.”

The first year of the trial was the most expensive with the amount budgeted for the 2016-7 financial year topping $10.3 million –including $4.8 million for legal aid costs and $4.3 million for criminal recovery action expenses.

For the subsequent financial year, just over $9 million was budgeted, including $4.3 million for legal aid and $3.7 million for criminal recovery action expenses.

The last few years have each cost the country between $8.6 million and $5.3 million, the latter

figure being at the onset of the Covid pandemic.

Meanwhile, the civil recovery process which started in December 2009 continues.

In July 2022, the Weekly News reported that around $22.4 million had been recouped via 86 recoveries. However, that was still less than the $22.8 million price tag calculated at the time.

This week, the Attorney General’s confirmed to the Weekly News that “recoveries remain broadly as previously reported”.

“While significant amounts have been recovered over the last couple of years (for example, nearly $2.5 million in February 2024), they have been in respect of orders and judgments made but not yet paid, so do not affect the overall total of orders and settlements reported,” AG Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles said.

She explained that there were currently “only a very small number of cases remaining which are being progressed by the civil recovery team”.

“The main one went to trial last year and a judgment is awaited. It is hoped the remaining cases will proceed over the next year or so –all have been live for some time.

“The progress of cases is affected by the availability of court time to hear them and the time taken to produce judgments once they have been heard, and then deal with any appeals,” the AG added.

Lawyer Laurence Harris, of Cooley LLP, who is leading the civil recovery, could not be reached for comment. He is credited with also recouping thousands of acres of land, with some cases reaching Privy Council level.

In 2022, when asked for clarification on the hefty legal bills, Harris said they covered not just Cooley’s fees, but also costs for specialist barristers and experts.

For its part, the UK maintains its stance that TCI should bear the full cost of the corruption proceedings.

“The trial and its related costs are the responsibility of the TCI government. The UK government is not responsible for any costs relating to the trial,” a spokeswoman for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office told the Weekly News on Wednesday.

“This matter is still before the Turks and Caicos judicial system pending the resumption of the court. As such, we do not comment on ongoing legal proceedings,” she added.

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS’ DEFICIT

On March 12, 2025, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick addressed Parliament, revealing a $57.3 million deficit for the Turks and Caicos Islands in the fiscal year 2024-2025.

This deficit is primarily due to increased healthcare costs and legal claims against the government.

The government plans to increase revenue by $14.1 million to $495.2 million, but expenditures are set to rise by $40.3 million to $557.2 million.

The deficit will be funded from prior years’ reserves. Some projects are being cancelled, and others, like the Ministry of Innovation, Technology, and Information, are being established.

What are your thoughts?

Alarm bells

There is no one way this country could be in deficit mode with all of the “alleged growth” being witnessed. Is this a crisis of management or another mishap? It begs a number of questions on fiscal management and the viability of the country. The alarm bells are sounded and there is now tangible proof that the ill-fated healthcare system is a drain on the country’s resources as it is a major contributor to the current state of affairs.

Cover-up

How is it that these issues are just now being reported to the public? After the elections? This is treachery and a glaring betrayal of the public trust. The premier as the minister of finance and his entire Cabinet ought to resign in light of these belated, after the fact revelations.

Is she complicit?

Again, the Governor in her role as arbiter of good governance seems to be in bed with the Government to cover-up these financial issues up. She should have sounded the alarm bells a long time ago. For this act alone she’s not independent enough of the PNP government to carry out her duties.

Scary and daunting

A deficit so high potentially affects the country’s debt rating. $57 million plus is just too much and reflects a state of concern. The world finds itself in a state of uncertainty and the threat of tariff wars fomented by the US. It’s not good. There is that element of irresponsibility in the numbers being revealed are scary and they are daunting. This is crazy.

Fiscal Responsibility

How can a government justify such a significant deficit while claiming economic growth? This raises serious concerns about fiscal responsibility and transparency. The healthcare system, while essential, appears to be poorly managed and is draining resources. It’s time for a comprehensive review of spending priorities and accountability measures.

Public Accountability

It’s beyond frustrating to hear about a $57.3 million deficit after the elections—why weren’t we, the people of TCI, told about this earlier? It feels like the government has been playing games with our trust, hiding such critical information until it was too late for us to ask the tough questions. How can we expect accountability when these

matters are only revealed after decisions have already been made behind closed doors?

As Turks and Caicos Islanders, we deserve better. We are constantly told that the country is growing and thriving, so how do we find ourselves in this financial mess? The government owes us not just explanations but transparency going forward. The public shouldn’t be left in the dark about issues that will impact everyone—from healthcare to education to basic infrastructure. They need to remember that they are accountable to us, not the other way around.

Leadership Oversight

The Governor, as a supposed guardian of good governance, seems to have failed in her duty to address these financial issues earlier. Her silence on such a critical matter raises questions about her independence and effectiveness. This situation demands a thorough investigation into her role and actions.

Economic Stability

The announcement of a $57.3 million deficit is more than just a financial figure—it’s a warning sign of potential economic instability for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Deficits of this magnitude are concerning, as they can impact the country’s credit rating, making it more

expensive for the government to borrow money in the future. This could, in turn, hinder the nation’s ability to invest in critical areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The ripple effects of a reduced debt rating would not only strain government resources but also dampen investor confidence, which is vital for sustained economic growth. At a time when global economies are navigating uncertainty, including threats of trade tariffs and inflationary pressures, such a large deficit adds another layer of vulnerability. It raises concerns about fiscal prudence and whether adequate measures are being taken to curtail unnecessary spending. Additionally, the revelation that this deficit is being funded through reserves might seem like a temporary fix, but it risks depleting financial buffers that could be essential for weathering unforeseen crises in the future. The government must urgently implement robust fiscal policies to address these challenges, reassure international stakeholders, and maintain the long-term economic stability of the country.

Informal settlement crisis deepens as over 5,000 illegal structures revealed

BY OLIVIA ROSE

A staggering 5,404 illegal structures have been identified across the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), revealing a significant crisis in informal settlements.

The Informal Settlement Unit (ISU) recently released findings from its 2024 year-end review, detailing the extensive datagathering efforts and the sheer scale of the issue plaguing the islands.

Aerial surveys and Geographical Informal Systems (GIS) mapping have confirmed the presence of these structures across 31 of 50 identified informal settlement sites.

The ISU’s review highlighted major advancements in managing the proliferation of these settlements.

Key initiatives included GIS mapping, a Social Needs Assessment Survey, and the drafting of Land Use Subdivision Plans.

According to the ISU, these efforts aim to understand and address the complex issues associated with informal settlements.

The 50 known sites are estimated to occupy a whopping 576.18 acres of Crown and private lands.

PROGRESS REPORT

In 2024, 13.48 acres of private lands and 6.37 acres of Crown lands were reclaimed, with 89 illegal structures removed.

Since its inception, the ISU, in collaboration with the Crown Land Unit and the Physical Planning Department, has successfully removed 224 illegal structures.

A Social Needs Assessment

Survey, launched in November, seeks to establish a baseline understanding of these communities.

The survey gathers data on structure size and type, resident numbers, ownership, environmental risks like flooding, public health and sanitation concerns, utility availability, and socioeconomic conditions.

The initial survey site was Robinson St, Five Cays, where seven trained surveyors conducted interviews in English, Creole, and Spanish.

The survey will expand in 2025 to 19 sites in Provo and Grand Turk, with an increased team of 13 surveyors.

A number of community outreach activities have already been conducted in 11 settlements to inform residents about the survey and its confidentiality guidelines.

The ISU stressed that it employs a data-driven approach to inform policy development for safe and sustainable communities.

The ISU informed that urban planning reviews have also commenced, with 13 reconnaissance missions and six Land Use Subdivision Plans drafted.

In 2024, over 1,000 Letters and Notices were served on illegal structures or occupants through joint operations involving various government agencies.

In cases where occupants were absent, notices were prominently displayed on the structures themselves, leaving no room for ambiguity.

The issuance of these notices marks a critical step in the government’s efforts to rein in unregulated development and uphold building codes and regulations.

Coupled with these measures, Premier Hon C. Washington Misick, held a meeting with developers and stakeholders to address the issue, emphasising the importance of collaboration for sustainable development.

The ISU also held meetings with utility providers to find solutions to the challenges posed by informal settlements.

The Strategic Lead of the ISU, Carlos W. Simons KC, praised the work of the ISU and its partners, expressing optimism for continued progress in creating safer and more sustainable communities in 2025.

At the launch of the ISU in 2023, Simons emphasised that unplanned construction undertaken either in ignorance or in defiance of the planning laws and regulations of the country is often a breeding ground for crime, disease outbreaks

and generally puts lives at risk. An informal settlement is an area consisting of housing or other buildings that have been illegally erected.

These developments are built outside of any planning oversight and as such, they have poor structural quality and lack the most basic amenities and services such as water, electricity, roads, stormwater drains and sanitation among other things.

These illegal dwellings pose a number of threats and risks to the people residing in them as well as both the community and the environment around them.

To this end, the Turks and Caicos Islands Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) was established by the Government to find solutions to the growing challenges experienced within and by informal settlements across the TCI.

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

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

Perhaps you’re a great cook and have created lots of delicious recipes that use local ingredients. Maybe you have ideas on how to save money when shopping and know where to find all the latest bargains. Or are you an entrepreneur who would like to share tips on setting up a new business?

We need regular contributors of 400 word articles on a variety of topics for our Lifestyle pages. Get in touch with us at the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and pitch your idea for a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly column. You will have your name in print along with your business contact details if requested. It’s a great way to share your knowledge and promote your business or start-up.

A Notice of Unauthorised Occupation posted on building materials

Heavy machinery at the Robinson Street Informal Settlement in the process of removing the partially built vacant structure

“Petty” differences and cultural clashes undermine force – Bailey

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Cultural differences and “petty” internal battles within the Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, if left unchecked, could further hinder the Force’s ability to effectively address crime.

However, the Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr Fitz Bailey, said he is determined to change this narrative and unite the force for good.

In a candid interview, the Top Cop revealed the significant “internal challenges” plaguing the organisation, notably the struggle to unite a force comprised of “over 19 different cultures.”

This revelation painted a picture of an institution grappling with diversity, not as a strength, but as a potential impediment to effective policing.

“These are things that you can’t just put under the carpet. These are real issues,” Bailey stated emphatically.

He described the challenge of creating a “force that works together, [to] create that synergy so that we can look at the command as intended, the big picture, and put away the personal and these cultural nuances that sometimes are

very petty, but they actually impact on the effectiveness of what we do.”

His sentiments exposed a deepseated lack of cohesion and a struggle to move past individual differences for the greater good.

The Acting Commissioner didn’t shy away from acknowledging the severity of the situation.

“These are some real, real, real challenges that we have to navigate,” he admitted.

Seven years in prison for two illegal guns and goods stolen from murdered man

Akeem Lightbourne - initially charged with the barbaric murder of Travis Nathaniel Parker - has been sentenced to seven years in prison for possession of two illegal guns, one of which is a murder weapon, and handling goods stolen from the dead man.

Lightbourne was freed of the murder charge after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution determined that it did not have sufficient evidence to support the charge.

Police alleged that Lightbourne, along with unknown accomplices, had robbed and killed Parker on the night of March 15, 2022, in an area known as the Well, along the South Road in Providenciales.

The brutal killing of the Grand Turk man had drawn an outcry

from residents and police.

At the time of the shooting, then Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting had labelled it a “senseless and barbaric act” against a man who posed no threat to the armed criminals who were seeking to rob and terrorise him. The commissioner said the depraved action of the criminals is nothing short of a “cold-hearted and hideous act of violence”.

Lightbourne was reportedly attempting to pawn the stolen items after the murder, causing police to swoop down on his place of residence where they recovered the gun alleged to have been used in the murder. Ballistics tests are said to have confirmed it to be the murder weapon.

Lightbourne later pleaded guilty to being in possession

of the two illegal guns and possession of stolen items. He was sentenced to seven years for each gun and two and a half years for the stolen goods. His sentences will run concurrently (at the same time).

The Five Cays man will only serve seven years behind bars.

In June 2022, gun laws in the Turks and Caicos Islands gun laws were amended. They now carry a minimum sentence of 12 years, up to 20 years imprisonment. However, Lightbourne’s crime, although adjudicated after the passage of the law increasing imprisonment for gun crimes, was committed before the amendment. Accordingly, he was sentenced under the old law, which stipulated seven years behind bars.

Bailey further elaborated on the historical context, pointing out that police forces in the region evolved from a “plantation system where police were basically created to support the plantation owners.”

According to Bailey, this historical baggage, coupled with modern-day diversity, creates a complex web of challenges.

The Acting Commissioner’s frankness about these internal issues is a rare glimpse into the struggles faced by the force, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that foster unity and synergy among its ranks.

In Bailey’s view, internal strife is not just a matter of differing opinions, but a direct threat to the Force’s ability to combat crime and maintain order.

In this vein, transforming the very culture of the force requires a shift in mindset, a willingness to overcome individual biases, and a commitment to work together toward a common goal.

Bailey underscored that the force’s diversity, while potentially a strength, has manifested as a barrier, with “cultural nuances” and “petty” issues stymying operational effectiveness.

As the Turks and Caicos Islands face increasing crime rates, the ability of its police force to overcome these internal challenges will be crucial in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and visitors.

Acting Commissioner of Police Mr Fitz Bailey

Murder victim Travis Parker

RTCIPF makes 41 arrests for serious crimes amidst surge

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In the face of a concerning surge in serious crimes, Acting Commissioner of Police Mr Fitz Bailey has underscored the critical role of community policing while revealing that the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) has made over 41 arrests for serious crimes since December 2024.

This announcement comes as the islands grapple with escalating violence, prompting the Commissioner to call for greater collaboration between law enforcement and the public.

During a recent interview, Commissioner Bailey emphasised that “community policing is critical to the success” of their strategy.

He acknowledged the current situation as being akin to a “firefight,” requiring immediate adjustments and responses to the crisis.

However, he stressed that “there’s no way you can be a successful police force without having a vibrant community type policing, policing is very important.”

Bailey’s remarks highlight a shift towards a more integrated and collaborative approach to law enforcement, recognising that policing cannot be effective without the active participation and trust of the community.

Bailey further elaborated on his vision, stating, “One of the things that I want to be a part of our culture within the force is for every one of us to see ourselves as a community police officer, whilst we have the community policing section that focuses on that.”

He stressed that it is part of a broader strategy where every officer, regardless of their specific role, is encouraged to engage with the community and build relationships.

The Commissioner also spoke of “divisional primacy,” where divisional commanders would be responsible for

their own community-based policing strategies, ensuring that engagement is tailored to the specific needs of each area.

He said: “What I would want to see is more control by the divisional commander, and so that division commander is required to do his policing plan, and included in that policing plan, must be his community-based policing strategy, how he’s going to police his community,” he explained.

SOLVING CRIME

Amidst this focus on community engagement, Commissioner Bailey also revealed a significant number of arrests for serious crimes.

“I was looking at some data since December, and we have arrested over 41 people for serious crimes, and I’m not talking about just arrest, arrest and charged,” he stated firmly.

He further added, “The last

North Caicos man charged with grievous bodily harm

Thirty-three-year-old Domanique Missick of North Caicos has been charged with two criminal offences following an investigation by police.

He is accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm on another person and taking a motor vehicle without authority.

Police said the charges stem from a Thursday, March 13, report to police officers.

Missick was granted $5,000 bail with one surety and is scheduled to appear before the Whitby Magistrate’s Court on March 26.

three homicides that we have had, we have made arrests for those and that is the direction I want the force to go, to not just to appreciate the complaint, but to solve the crime.”

Bailey underscored that under his stewardship, the force will take a proactive and results-oriented approach, aiming not only to respond to crimes but also to bring perpetrators to justice swiftly.

The Acting Police Commissioner acknowledged the importance of providing closure to victims and ensuring accountability.

“When you’re a victim you need closure.”

He emphasised that “if the crimes are being committed and

people are not caught, it will embolden the criminals.”

Therefore, the focus on solving crimes and making arrests is not just about enforcement but also about deterrence and maintaining public confidence in the justice system.

The Commissioner also addressed the need for continuous improvement within the force, particularly in training and capacity building.

“We are putting a lot of effort where there are gaps in terms of training. I’ll seek to address those. I’m seeking training opportunities for the men and women so that the competence level is improved,” he

said.

This commitment to professional development aims to enhance the force’s ability to investigate and solve crimes effectively.

Commissioner Bailey’s emphasis on community policing, coupled with the announcement of 41 arrests for serious crimes, demonstrates a dual approach to tackling crime in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He emphasised that by fostering stronger ties with the community and focusing on solving crimes, the RTCIPF aims to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents and visitors to these shores.

Suspected thief gets $2k bail

Forty-one-year-old Rolin Thoby has been charged with stealing a generator, an igloo cooler and construction tools.

Thoby was taken into custody on Tuesday, February 18 for questioning by investigators and released pending further inquiries. He was charged on March 17 and granted $2,000 police bail pending an appearance before a Magistrate on Monday, April 7.

Police recovered the items after investigating reports at a location along Leeward Highway in Providenciales

Meanwhile, Jeff Pierre, 30, has been charged with driving a motor vehicle with alcohol concentration above the prescribed limit.

Pierre of Five Cays was charged on Wednesday (March 19) and granted $1,000 police bail with one surety. He will appear before a Magistrate in

Providenciales on Thursday, March 27.

The arrest and subsequent charge followed an incident on March 2, when officers responded to an accident along Grace Bay Road near Alexandra Park Road.

Upon arrival, officers observed a vehicle on the sidewalk with deployed airbags. The officers took certain actions, and Pierre was arrested.

Acting Commissioner Fitz Bailey and officers during an arrest in Five Cays (Photos: RTCIPF)

A suspect being taken into custody by a police officer following an operation in Five Cays

A dream can become a reality

The AA flight to South Caicos is an example

INTRODUCTION

Whatever you dream about, it can become a reality. Just implement your plan to succeed. One of the key things in achieving your dream is to believe it is possible. Do not get distracted by the length of time it takes or is taking for your dream to materialise. Don’t ever give up. I don’t believe dreams are coincidental, you have them for a reason.

THE DREAM

My birth took place on the island of South Caicos. I lived there for the first 16 years of my life until I left to go to college in Ohio. During my time, I used to dream and wish that South Caicos could become great economically. As young as I was, I prayed so many times asking God to do something for South Caicos. I was so excited in the early 80s when the construction of the East Bay Resort started but my dream was dashed because somehow the project discontinued. Then I

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.

became optimistic again when the High Point Project started. My hopes were dashed again after waiting for so many years and then the project never materialised. I used to think for years that there was a curse on my birthplace. I realise that my thoughts may not have been appropriate. I used to tell God, that if there is any curse on the island of South Caicos, please remove the curses.

THE REALITY

Finally, after so many years, some developers bought some land and

started the Sail Rock Development. Other developers later acquired the East Bay Resort Hotel and then this changed hands again and became Salterra with the Marriott Brand. These acquisitions were the beginning of the dream of reviving the economy of South Caicos. Thank you to the Developers for investing on the island of South Caicos.

On Saturday, March 15th, 2025, for the first time, American Airlines landed on the island of South Caicos offering services between Miami Florida and South Caicos.

This isn’t the first time South Caicos has hosted an international airline, but it’s been over 30 years since the last flight.

Thank you Mr Michael Tibbetts, (the developer for the Salterra) for initiating this arrangement, Thank you also to TCIG for ensuring that all the necessary requirements were in place to accommodate American Airlines. This could not be possible of course without having an airport. Thanks to the airport authority and both administrations (2012-2016 and 2016 to 2020) for making sure South Caicos had an international airport.

It started in 2014, when the government at that time instructed the airports authority to retain the funds for the construction of the airport and upgrade the runway rather than transmit money to the TCIG consolidated funds. A bidder was initially selected for the construction of the airport however, there was a change in government and the selection

STEWARDS OF CREATION:

process restarted.

LET IT WORK

The flight from American Airlines is the beginning of something great not only for South Caicos but for Turks and Caicos Islands. I urge everyone to seize this chance because tourists will come. Build some villas. Start a taxi and VIP service.

Have activities for the tourists. Make sure we provide excellent customer service, be friendly to our visitors and with each other and keep the place clean. In this way, the tourists will return and spread the news about South Caicos.

CONCLUSION

I am encouraged by what is coming. Words alone cannot express how I felt on Saturday. As much as I dreamt about having booming tourism in South Caicos, I never imagined that in 2025, I would see American Airlines landing on the island of South. Thank you, God.

A Gospel response to environmental challenges in TCI

The breathtaking beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is more than just a source of tourism and economic growth—it is a sacred trust God gives to everyone who calls it home, whether permanently or otherwise. While a lot has been said about climate change, the reality, whether you subscribe to it or not, is that our actions (irresponsible garbage disposal, pollution, illegal fishing) have endangered our environment, and as a result of that, we have jeopardized our environment. If we fail to take action now, the blessing that God gave to the inhabitants of these islands will be stripped of its beauty and richness. Our responsibility to care for the land we have been given to manage is a deeply spiritual one and not a political or economic issue. The land is God’s, he entrusted it to us to care, sustain, and draw out its latent potential for His Glory, not our personal gain. As such, caring for creation is not the task of governments and activists but everyone, especially those who

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going further in their faith. Besides loving, serving, and helping people he has watched the extended Director’s cut of the Lord of the Rings trilogy multiple times.

follow Jesus. The Bible calls us to be faithful stewards of God’s creation, and the Gospel compels us to act with love, justice, and responsibility.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

From the very beginning, God entrusted humanity with the care of the earth. Genesis 2:15 states, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” This verse reveals that creation care is not an afterthought but part of our God-given purpose. The earth belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1), and we are its caretakers, not its owners. It also means work is

good and necessary. Our work, be it as a gardener, accountant, or government official, is a necessary part of our responsibility as God’s creation and it becomes good work when we do it to please God.

The Bible also warns against the reckless exploitation of natural resources. Proverbs 12:10 tells us, “The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.” When humans exploit creation for selfish gain, they act in opposition to God’s will. The book of Revelation even speaks of judgment upon those who “destroy the earth” (Revelation 11:18), emphasizing that neglecting our creation care responsibilities is a serious offense.

THE GOSPEL AND CREATION CARE

The Gospel is not just about saving souls; it is about restoring all things under Jesus’ authority (Colossians 1:20). Jesus’ death and resurrection were not only to redeem humanity but to bring healing to all of creation, which has been subjected to futility and decay because of sin (Romans 8:1922). When Christians care for the environment, they are participating in God’s redemptive work. They bear witness to His love for all that He has made, and they reflect His justice by ensuring that future generations—and especially the poor and vulnerable—are not harmed by the irresponsible actions

of today.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO?

1. Live responsibly – Reduce waste, conserve energy, and make choices that prioritize sustainability. Whether through reducing the use of plastics, supporting eco-friendly businesses, or advocating for conservation efforts, small actions collectively make a significant impact.

2. Protect marine life – Support legal conservation efforts, respect fishing regulations, and educate others on the importance of protecting ocean life.

3. Advocate for stewardship –Speak out for policies that align with biblical stewardship, ensuring that development and environmental protection go hand in hand. Churches should participate in conservation projects and community cleanups.

4. Teach the next generation

“Please can you spare some eggs for breakfast” America asks the world

Now is the time for serious planning and action for countries the world over. Especially those that have long relied on the United States for trade of livestock, food, and agricultural items. This is because, as the world is changing, this country is no longer the bountiful and boundless source of such items. Small Caribbean countries living ‘cheek by jowl’ with America, such as Turks & Caicos, Bahamas, Bermuda, and Cayman, are highly susceptible as they heavily import for human consumption from the U.S. far more than they export. The ‘writing on the wall’ for these nations getting serious about their self-sufficiency can be summed up in a March 14, 2025 article in ‘The Guardian’ titled: “US turns to Denmark as it hunts for eggs despite Trump’s threat over Greenland.” After reading this article, anyone sticking to the long-held notion that the US is a never-ending reliable source of sustenance should see that those days are over and should make alternate plans.

The article outlines how America, with its bird-flu situation, has now turned its focus to Denmark and other European countries to provide it some relief as a source for eggs to sustain itself in this ‘trying’ time. This is a sea change, as the US has long been the provider rather than the one in need. And if these Caribbean places

BY BEN ROBERTS

Ben is a writer and published author of the novel ‘Jackals of Samarra,’ at Amazon.com. He is a Turks & Caicos Islander who often contributes articles to T&C local newspapers. He is a founding member of the NGO Turks & Caicos Forum (TC Forum) that gives voice to matters Turks & Caicos Islands. Contact him at: grandt730@aol.com

like the Turks and Caicos, whose people rely almost totally on the US for just about everything that passes across their tongue, neglect to take alternative action, they will be in dire straits. This is because, if the US is able to get their needs taken care of by European egg producers does anyone think they will ship any surplus to the Caribbean? Not a chance. What is more, is that Denmark and Europe have made clear to the US that they have no surplus of eggs that could be provided to offer relief.

A relief that is needed even despite the fact that Turkey has already exported 15 tons of eggs to the country. What, 15 tons? That is a lot of eggs. And they are still in need. Interestingly, the story points out that Europe has long had difficulty exporting eggs to the US because of its stringent ‘exclude’ import policies and regulations that were designed to benefit local American egg production. Simply

A Gospel response to environmental ...

– Christian parents and educators must instill in young people the biblical responsibility to care for creation. Teaching children to respect God’s creation is a way of discipling them in the ways of the Lord. We teach children to respect the property of others, and the earth is not ours, so we should teach them to respect what does not belong to them.

5. Pray for wisdom –Ultimately, we must seek God’s wisdom in how we manage the earth’s resources. Pray for leaders to make righteous decisions and for hearts to change so that stewardship becomes a priority.

CONCLUSION

Environmental care is not just for activists; it is for all who seek to honor God with their lives. The Turks and Caicos Islands are a gift, and gifts should be cherished, protected, and passed down with care. Through the Gospel, we are reminded that our responsibility to the earth is part of our larger calling to live as faithful servants of God. The question remains: Will we be wise stewards who honor our Creator, or will we turn a blind eye to the damage we cause? The time to act is now—not just for the sake of the environment, but for the glory of God and the good of all.

put, after decades of targeted ‘shutting out’ of this item from American markets for no reason other than protectionism, now the country is pleading with those same vendors to provide them relief by being gracious enough to supply them what they need in the present circumstances. Is such a

request reasonable in this instance?

But the question here is why did the US think it necessary to go across an ocean to Denmark for help with its egg supplies when it could have skipped a short distance to the Caribbean countries larger than those mentioned, such as Jamaica, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic to fill this shortfall? Do they think eggs from these locations are of inferior standard and quality for American public consumption? That would be strange as the people of those countries have survived quite well consuming this product from their countries. If there were concerns about bird flu and salmonella the US could simply station agencies in these places to do testing prior to importation. Or is this simply

long, baked-in, prejudice that if the item comes from a Universe away in White Europe then it has to be of a quality light-years better than anything brown and Black-skinned people from the Caribbean could provide? Is this sound thinking on the part of someone in dire need? Here’s an anecdote from a few years ago that should put any such misgivings to rest:

The setting is Turks and Caicos. Yes, the same Turks and Caicos that provided early America its ‘Grade A+ salt to George Washington and his Continental Army which was key to them in winning their Revolutionary War that sent the British ‘packing’ back across the Atlantic in surrender. Paul, one of

Why TCI needs real addresses now LOST IN PARADISE:

There was a time when knowing someone’s address simply meant knowing their last name. But times have changed. With shifting demographics and an influx of new residents, that informal system no longer works. Today, many of us don’t even know our neighbours’ last names—let alone how to direct emergency responders to their homes in a crisis.

That’s about to change. A new initiative led by Hon Saunders, in partnership with Google Maps, is tackling this issue. As of January 29, 2025, Google Maps has updated its Street View imagery for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Residents, businesses, and emergency services can now access detailed, street-level visuals for Providenciales, North and Middle Caicos, Grand Turk, and parts of South Caicos and Salt Cay.

This is real progress. Street View allows users to explore roads, landmarks, and—most importantly—street signs. It can improve navigation for residents, tourists, foreign police officers and 911 call centre operators who maybe unfamiliar with the communities, ensuring locations can be found more easily.

In an emergency, knowing exactly where to go can mean

BY ED FORBES

the difference between life and death. While Google Maps isn’t perfect, users can report missing or outdated information directly through the app, improving accuracy over time.

But this update is just the first step. The next priority should be implementing a standardized house numbering system across these islands. Without clear addresses, even the best mapping technology has limits. Emergency responders rely on accurate location data to reach people in distress quickly. A missing house number can delay critical assistance when it matters most.

Beyond safety, there are practical benefits. Accurate addresses streamline deliveries and taxi services. Businesses that rely on customer foot traffic need reliable location data. Tourists using navigation apps to find hotels, restaurants, or excursions may otherwise find themselves lost.

In an increasingly digital world, proper addresses also impact economic growth.

Businesses with precise locations perform better in online searches, increasing visibility and customer engagement. Many banks and insurance companies require a valid address for loans, mortgages, and policies. Without a formal system in place, some residents may struggle to access financial services.

Modernising TCI’s address system isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, efficiency, and progress. The introduction of Google Maps’ Street View is a significant step forward, but it must be followed by a government-led initiative to assign numbers to every home and business. Without this, TCI risks falling behind in essential services that impact both residents and visitors alike.

The time to act is now. A standardised address system isn’t optional—it’s essential for the islands’ future, giving residents that peace of mind and making TCI one of the best places to live and work.

A concerned citizen of Grand Turk

Turks and Caicos reconnects with Canadian market during strategic visit

The Turks and Caicos Islands have re-established a strong presence in Canada following a strategic visit from February 22nd to 26th. Marking the destination’s return to the Canadian market after a three-year hiatus, the delegation engaged with travel professionals, media, and adventure-seeking travellers to strengthen ties and build momentum in this key source

market.

Led by Ms Trina Adams, Chief Marketing Officer of Experience Turks and Caicos, the delegation included Miss Oshin Whyte, Tourism Statistics Specialist; Mrs Jasmine Thomas, Director of the Turks and Caicos National Trust; and Mr Levardo Talbot, local fishing expert and owner of Talbot’s Adventures Fish and

Wildlife Experiences.

As part of the visit, Experience Turks and Caicos participated in the Canada Outdoor Adventure Show. The event attracted adventure travellers interested in eco-friendly and outdoor experiences such as kayaking, birdwatching, diving, whale watching, and kiteboarding. The destination’s booth showcased the multi-island offerings of Turks

“Please can you spare some eggs for breakfast” ...

my siblings in Providenciales, raises free-range poultry for his own personal family use. So, his chickens are in his yard eating parsley, dandelion, and other naturally-growing herbs. Our grand-niece, then a small child was visiting from her home in Florida. He cooked and put breakfast on the table. Eggs from his chickens! The little girl, unaware of who the plate was for ‘dug in’ with the eggs.

Her Mom, seeing this, got very concerned and feared the worst, since her little daughter was allergic to eggs and always suffered bouts of nausea, vomiting, tummy aches, and other unpleasant side effects whenever she ate them. Guess what? At no point did the child experience a single symptom of what usually happened, on eating these eggs from naturefed chickens. Nothing! Nada!

So America, if you are listening: “eggs, locally-raised beef, fish, and other Caribbean food items ‘hands-down’ beat anything you could mass produce with antibiotics, chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and use carbon

monoxide and wax to shine to look appealing to the shopper’s eye. No contest here. So, it might be to your benefit to engage the Caribbean for the products they offer as you try to figure your way out of this trying situation of ‘food security’ for American citizens.”

It is beyond ridiculous that the American shopper has to stagger under the burden of skyrocketing prices for eggs, presumably due to bird-flu concerns; outrageous prices for olive oil because ‘soldiers’ are allowed and supported, with that taxpayer shopper’s money to go into Palestinian olive groves and set fire to the olive trees from which that precious oil is made, thereby jacking up the prices; and be subject to runaway prices on just about all consumables due to exorbitant shipping costs globally as the Houthis in Yemen target ships traversing their Red Sea region. And why is this latter situation the case?

Because those Houthis have committed themselves to attacking vessels connected to the afore-mentioned ‘soldiers’ and their country, so long as they attack the Palestinians with the

blessings and support of the U.S. Why should the American food shopper be made to pay for this in their grocery store?

But these burdensome prices are not limited to items coming from this Asia and Middle East region of the world. If a shopkeeper cannot realize their profit on an item from such places, then they will simply jack up prices on other items not from those regions to make up for that loss. Yes, including local items such as eggs! Yet the news media with hosts like Shapiro, Siegel, Nnamdi, Stahl. Maddow, Melber, Cooper, Blitzer, Burnett …, for all their claims of ‘investigative journalism’, think it unimportant to explain this to the consumers. Why? And as for the Caribbean citizen, including those from Turks & Caicos? They need to begin looking inward in sustaining themselves in agriculture and livestock. Not just talk, but serious action. Why? Because the ‘bountiful America’ that once could fed the world, and the ‘leadership America’ that made good decisions on behalf of the ‘global citizen’, seems to no longer exist. Ask the Danes and Palestinians.

and Caicos, with support from partners like Dive Provo and Beaches Turks and Caicos.

A major highlight of the show was the participation of internationally known eco-explorer and TV host Mario Rigby, a Turks and Caicos native residing in Toronto. Rigby’s presence added excitement and authenticity as he engaged with visitors and shared his passion for sustainable adventure travel.

Minister of Tourism, the Hon Zhavargo Jolly, emphasised the importance of the visit: “The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to strengthen their global presence, and I am pleased to see renewed momentum in the Canadian market. While our world-renowned beaches remain a major draw, there is vast potential to expand into adventure and eco-tourism, which not only diversifies our offerings but also increases visitor spending. I am especially pleased that Experience Turks and Caicos included Mr Levardo Talbot in their delegation. Supporting local entrepreneurs and ensuring that Turks and Caicos Islanders are direct beneficiaries of our tourism industry is a priority. Their participation in key international events is vital to securing opportunities that drive long-term success for our people.”

In addition to the show, the delegation held strategic meetings with their newly appointed marketing representatives, VoX International, who will spearhead marketing efforts for Experience Turks and Caicos in Canada. Discussions centred around targeted campaigns, trade partnerships, and media collaborations to strengthen the destination’s position in the market.

To further reinforce its presence, Experience Turks and Caicos hosted an intimate reception at Miss Likkle’s, a Caribbean fusion restaurant. The event brought together 50 travel professionals and media representatives, providing an opportunity to share destination updates and reconnect with key industry players. Hotel partners, Turks and Caicos Collection and

Beaches Turks and Caicos, also participated, adding depth to the event’s discussions.

The visit garnered significant media coverage, with five features published across major travel publications such as Travel Market Report, Open Jaw, and Travel Week. Engagement with travel advisors bolstered confidence in the destination’s offerings and reinforced its commitment to sustainable tourism.

Reflecting on the successful visit, Ms Trina Adams, Chief Marketing Officer, stated: “Our visit to Canada was incredibly productive. It allowed us to highlight the diverse experiences that set Turks and Caicos apart, beyond the traditional sun-and-sand vacation. From luxury and adventure travel to ecotourism and cultural heritage, we presented a well-rounded view of our destination. The response from both the media and travel trade was overwhelmingly positive, particularly with the updates on new resort developments and sustainability initiatives. The extensive media coverage and strengthened trade relationships confirm that Turks and Caicos remains top of mind in the Canadian market. We extend our gratitude to our new marketing representatives, VoX International, for their invaluable support in making this visit a success.”

Susan Webb, President of VoX International, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are thrilled to be working with Experience Turks and Caicos to spearhead growth in the Canadian market. We look forward to working with our Canadian trade partners, media and influencers to raise the destination’s profile and make the Turks and Caicos Islands a premier Caribbean vacation destination choice for Canadian travellers.”

Experience Turks and Caicos looks forward to building on the momentum generated during this visit, deepening partnerships, and driving increased visitation from Canada in the months ahead.

TCI was on display to Canadians

TCI tourism representatives during their visit to Canada

Caicos celebrated the inaugural flight of American Airlines from Miami, Florida, to Norman Saunders Sr International Airport amid much fanfare. Gather at the nicely appointed airport were government and private sector persons, students, locals and other celebrants

South Caicos welcomes international flights from the US

BY DELANA ISLES

‘The Big South is on the rise again’, that was the message that resonated last Saturday, March 15, as officials and residents gathered at the Norman B. Saunders International Airport to welcome the inaugural American Airlines flight, non-stop, direct from Miami, Florida.

Ministers, members of parliament, and excited residents joined the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the Premier to welcome the American Eagle – one of the aircraft in AA’s fleet.

Premier, Hon Charles Washington Misick, who departed from South Caicos for Miami on the return flight, in a pre-recorded message congratulated South Caicos on the milestone which represents significant connectivity advancement and economic growth for the family island.

“As we welcome American Airlines’ inaugural flight to South Caicos, we celebrate a milestone that will forever shape our future. This is more than just an addition to our airlifts, it is a bold step towards greater connectivity, boundless opportunities and a stronger more dynamic economy.

“For too long South Caicos has remained a hidden gem, rich in heritage, culture and untapped potential, but today we open our doors wider than ever before,” Premier Misick said.

He added that this direct international link is a game

changer as it means more visitors and more businesses investing in the family island. “This is not just about a flight; it’s about a future we are building for our people.”

Newly appointed Minister of Tourism, Hon Zhavargo Jolly – a ‘South Caicos boy’ – shared fond memories of his childhood and what the ‘Big South’ was, back in the day.

“We remember when South Caicos was the thriving heart of commerce in the Turks and Caicos Islands: full of life, industry and opportunity. Over the years, we’ve seen the island face challenges, but today is different. Today, South Caicos stands ready for a new beginning,” Jolly shared.

He said the direct international flight is not just a symbol of progress but rather is a clear message that South Caicos is back, “stronger and more vibrant than ever”.

“This moment is for the hardworking people of South Caicos, whose resilience and spirit have always been the island’s greatest strength. Today, we step into a future of growth, opportunity, and renewed pride,” the tourism minister emphasised.

The inaugural flight is the result of intense collaboration between government agencies and stakeholders inclusive of the Salterra resort in South Caicos, led by the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority.

Celebrating the momentous occasion with words of

encouragement and celebration were the Governor, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams; other ministers of government, and

Chairman of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority, Dwayne Gardiner.

American Airlines will operate twice-weekly flights to South Caicos on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Travelers can book their flights to South Caicos via the airline’s website or through travel advisors.

South

Acting Police Chief pushes for gender equity, promises force transformation

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Acting Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Fitz Bailey is making waves with a bold push for diversity and gender equality at the highest levels.

Breaking away from tradition, Bailey is on a mission to prioritise the inclusion of women in the force executive, openly addressing the current lack of female representation and declaring it a critical step towards building a more balanced and professional organisation.

The Acting Commissioner’s commitment to gender equity signals a significant shift in the force’s leadership and a potential transformation of its culture.

In a recent interview, Bailey pointed out that he wants his tenure with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police—whether short or long—to be categorised by a transformation of the force to a model of professionalism.

Bailey outlined his vision with unwavering determination, emphasising the need for a force that the people can “feel a sense of pride to associate with.”

His commitment to this goal is palpable, and his words painted a picture of a leader dedicated to creating a lasting legacy of excellence.

During an exclusive sit-down

with the host of ‘First Edition’

Ms Cheryl-ann Forman, Bailey said: “One of the things that I want to accomplish, if I don’t do anything, I just to make the force professional.”

He stressed that his main objective is to elevate the force to a standard of professionalism that inspires confidence and respect.

He elaborated, “If you get the force to that level of professionalism, I think everything will fall in place.”

For Bailey, professionalism is not just about procedures

Thirty young women and

men

will undergo hospitality soft skills training

The Edward Gartland Youth Centre (EGYC) has launched a Hospitality Soft Skills training programme for young men and women in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Thirty young men and women between the ages of 16 and 25 have been selected from more than 50 applicants, for the eight-week programme which commences on Tuesday, March 25.

Facilitating the programme will be Melanie Smith of the Talent Recruitment Group (TRG).

Undertaking the programme will be 24 young women and 6 young men from the TCI Community

College, and nine secondary schools as well as unemployed young people.

The objectives of the sessions are to help young people develop the skills and experiences necessary to kickstart their career in the hospitality industry and beyond.

They will undergo training in topics such as: Introduction to hospitality and customer service excellence; effective communication in hospitality; problem-solving and conflict resolution; professionalism and work ethic in hospitality; teamwork and leadership; time management

and systems; it’s about building capacity and ensuring that “at the end of your tenure, you have a core group of people with the competence, the qualification, the skill that can fulfil the role of the head of the organisation.”

This vision extends beyond mere competence, as he spoke of the need for “equity,” particularly regarding female representation in the force executive.

“We have a force executive. We don’t have a female. It’s not it’s about competence,” he clarified, “but I think in today’s world, when

you have so many females working within an institution like this there needs to be greater balance, and I believe in that.”

The Acting Commissioner also addressed the importance of public perception and trust.

He acknowledged the “frustration that the people in Turks and Caicos do feel when someone from outside is offered the top job.”

However, he emphasised the need to “create the platform” and “broaden the grouping” of qualified individuals within the

force to build local capacity and ensure that future leadership comes from within.

Bailey’s commitment to professionalism is not just rhetoric.

He further revealed that he has taken concrete steps to improve the force, such as initiating “a social” event at headquarters to break down barriers between the executive and the rank and file.

“Force executive actually served the rank and file members, and that sort of break down a little and created a bridge” he explained.

He also emphasised the importance of “openness, transparency” and a “processdriven organisation.”

The Acting Commissioner underscored that his overall goal is to create a force where “every member, once you exhibit the right attitude, there’s no limit to where you can reach in the organisation.”

Bailey’s vision for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force to become a highly professional, equitable, and community-focused institution that inspires “pride” and “confidence” is clear.

His commitment to building capacity, fostering inclusivity, and promoting transparency suggests a transformative period for the force, one that could have a lasting impact on the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

and multitasking; cultural awareness and guest diversity; and career development and job readiness in hospitality. These will be followed by assessment and certification.

The main sponsor of the initiative is Wymara Resort, supported by the Ministry of Education, Grace Bay Resorts and the Hartling Group. They have all partnered with the Youth Centre to conduct the valuable training programme. (DELANA ISLES)

Female officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands police Force during a march-past

The Edward Gartland Youth Centre launched its soft skills training for young men and women this week

Former Tourism Minister declares freedom to speak her mind after cabinet reshuffle

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a dramatic turn of events, former Tourism Minister Hon Josephine Connolly declared her newfound freedom to speak candidly, stating that she is no longer bound by the “chains of cabinet collective responsibility.”

Addressing the House of Parliament on Wednesday, 13 March 2025, Connolly’s speech, while gracious in many respects, carried a clear message that she will not hesitate to criticise if she believes the interests of the Turks and Caicos Islands are threatened.

Connolly, who served as Tourism Minister for the past four years, was replaced by Hon Zhavargo Jolly following a Cabinet reshuffle after the Progressive National Party’s landslide victory in the 7 February General Election.

Despite expressing disappointment that she was not returned as a Cabinet Minister, Connolly extended congratulations to her successor, stating, “I would like to congratulate the new Minister responsible for Tourism, Mr Speaker. I wish him great success because tourism is our lifeblood, and it puts food on everyone’s table, and so the success of tourism is the success of

this country.”

However, the core of Connolly’s address centred on her liberation from the constraints of her previous role.

“As I am no longer bound by the chains of the cabinet collective responsibility, I will be free to coin a phrase to speak my mind. And I will speak my mind in defence of this country and its people,” Connolly declared.

The former Tourism Minister’s speech was also marked by gratitude and reflections on her 12

years on the frontline of politics.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of the Turks and Caicos for voting me in for the fourth consecutive time. The faith people have put in me in the last 12 years is a humbling experience, and I will continue to do my best to repay this faith and represent this country to the best of my ability,” she stated, acknowledging the support she received throughout her tenure.

She also praised the civil servants she worked with,

attributing the recent success in the tourism sector to their efforts. “Mr Speaker, I would also like to thank the civil servants at the various ministries I was responsible for in the last four years.

“The team has been hardworking and diligent and was a massive asset to me during my period as Minister. Your achievements, especially in the tourist space, were incredible, and the recent headline in the weekly news regarding the 2 million tourists and the 2024 numbers shattering records is because of the hard-working civil servants,” Connolly emphasised.

She expressed her disappointment that she will not be able to continue the journey with the Ministry but also expressed confidence in the Ministry’s success.

Offering advice to the new Tourism Minister, Connolly urged Mr Jolly to “trust your civil servants; they will give you good advice. They are knowledgeable, hardworking, and most importantly, they know the rules. The rules, Mr Speaker, which sometimes can feel restrictive, are there to protect the government and the country, and let’s not forget the Mr Minister.”

She also cautioned him to

“be wary of outside influencers, however well-connected, as their interests do not always align with the country’s. Mr Speaker, I think everyone in the house will agree that the interest of the Turks and Caicos must come first.”

Concluding her address, Connolly affirmed her support for the government while making it clear she would not shy away from criticism.

“Finally, Mr Speaker, as I take my place on the back benches, I would like to congratulate my government for their stunning success in the last election. I will be a loyal supporter of this government as they progress through the next five years. Whilst I have an obligation to my government and the manifesto we campaigned on, I also have a greater obligation to the people of this country who elected me and expect me to represent them. So whilst I support this government and its agenda, it will not stop me voicing my criticism if I believe the interests of the people of this country are being threatened.”

Connolly’s bold statement signalled a potentially more vocal and independent role for her in the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ political landscape.

Turks and Caicos nominated in nine World Travel Award Categories

The Turks and Caicos Islands has been nominated in nine prestigious categories for the 2025 World Travel Awards. Recognised for its unmatched luxury, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty, the destination is once again making its mark on the global stage.

FOR 2025, THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS HAS BEEN SHORTLISTED FOR THE FOLLOWING

CATEGORIES:

• Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Dive Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Family Travel Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Island Destination

• Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board

• Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination

These nominations follow a history of success for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The destination has held the title of Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination every year since 2015 and has won Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination for six

consecutive years, including in 2024.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to set the standard for luxury and adventure in the Caribbean, and these nominations reaffirm our position as a premier destination,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly. “While our pristine beaches have long been recognised, we are actively working to elevate other key sectors such as diving, family travel, and honeymoons— areas that bring direct economic

benefits to our people. Securing wins in these categories will strengthen our global brand, drive visitor interest, and create more opportunities for our local businesses. I encourage everyone who is eligible to cast their vote and help us showcase the very best of the Turks and Caicos Islands to the world.”

Votes can be cast by travel professionals, media, and tourism consumers. Voting is now open and closes on June 22, 2025.

These nominations follow a history of success for the Turks and Caicos Islands

Hon Josephine Connolly

PDM questions removal of NHIB’s appointed members and hiring of BVI firm

BY DELANA ISLES

The Opposition has raised concerns with a recent decision taken by the Governor to remove Directors of the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), questioning why only non-governmental members were targeted.

The questions followed by the Governor HE Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam’s decision on March 7 to remove the Directors of the NHIB with immediate effect and appoint an examiner to investigate the financial records of the Board and review its internal controls.

According to the PDM opposition, the move to remove only those members who are appointed – the chairperson appointed by the health minister, deputy chairperson and opposition appointed member, and the newly hired chief executive officer –“seems to imply that the issues at hand are solely the responsibility of those outside of government”.

PDM stated that these removals are “selective”, questioning the necessity and effectiveness of this move. They said issues such as accountability and systemic problems within the governance of the NHIB, particularly regarding how government-appointed officials have contributed to

the organization’s management challenges, should be addressed.

“Shouldn’t a comprehensive overhaul include a thorough review of all board members, including those linked to government, to ensure a balanced approach to accountability?” they asked.

The PDM posits that the organisation’s problems are not solely its own, claiming that the

US and Bahamas aid TCI authorities in capturing 277 illegals attempting entry

A United States Air Support (USAS) unit detected an illegal migrant vessel approximately 15 miles south of Providenciales, leading to its interception and detainment.

According to authorities, the vessel was spotted at about 10 pm in TCI waters last Saturday.

Subsequently, a report was made to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, which deployed two response vessels. In a coordinated effort, the USAS and

the Marine Branch successfully intercepted the vessel.

Two hundred and seventy-seven Haitian migrants were transported to shore. On the vessel were 234 males and 43 females - including three pregnant women and one minor.

Further assistance was rendered by a Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessel, which was conducting patrols under the Shiprider Agreement. The vessel diverted to assist in transporting

$10 million in a November 2024 government supplementary and is now expecting to receive $16M in the current March 2025 government supplementary.”

The party stated that this underscores the need for a more holistic examination of the funding and operational dynamics at play.

Additionally, the party questions the recruitment of Interpath (BVI) Limited, a firm with no local presence, to oversee such a vital aspect of public health. They said this raises concerns about the effectiveness of external oversight.

“Will they truly understand the unique challenges faced by the NHIB, or will their recommendations reflect a onesize-fits-all approach that may not resonate with our community’s specific needs,” the opposition questioned.

Government currently owes the Board tens of millions for the government-funded treatment abroad programme.

“With TCIG currently owing the NHIB approximately $45 million, the financial strain on the NHIB is not solely due to its operational practices but also reflects broader fiscal challenges within the government itself. NHIP received

They are urging the Governor and her Cabinet to consider a more inclusive and thorough examination of the NHIB’s governance structure – one that evaluates all members and incorporates community input. They said this “may not only restore confidence but also ensure the long-term sustainability of the NHIB.”

PDM said a commitment to transparency, accountability, and comprehensive reform is essential

to safeguard the health and wellbeing of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In addition to the BVI firm, the Governor has appointed interim directors to take over the management of the National Health Insurance Board.

She said the decisions follow a review of the NHIB’s financial management and operational practices, which identified concerns regarding accountability and fiduciary responsibility.

She also noted that the decision to remove the Board and appoint an Examiner was not taken lightly, however, “it is a necessary step to protect the future of the NHIB and to restore confidence in its ability to deliver on its mandate.”

Governor Selvaratnam has reassured residents who rely on the NHIB for medical coverage and services, that measures are in place to maintain the continuity of services.

An interim leadership structure oversees operations while a full review and restructuring process takes place.

The governor said the priority remains to ensure that healthcare services continue uninterrupted and that the NHIB is positioned to serve the people’s needs more effectively in the future.

the individuals to Providenciales. The occupants were then handed over to the TCI Border Force, aided by the TCI Regiment, for processing. This marks yet another successful interdiction reinforcing the commitment of all involved to combat irregular migration, authorities said.

Police have since issued a warning: “We are warning individuals facilitating these unlawful activities to desist and strongly advise against persons attempting to enter the TCI illegally. The RTCIPF remains resolute in deterring and disrupting human smuggling operations while safeguarding our national security.”

Leader of the PDM, Hon Edwin Astwood

The vessel had 234 males and 43 females

TCSPCA free clinic supports almost 300 pets in Providenciales

The Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TCSPCA) recently held a free spay and neuter clinic on Providenciales, setting a new benchmark even by its own high standards. The clinic, which ran from January 27th to February 7th, saw 283 animals sterilised over nine intensive surgery days.

Almost 200 dogs and just shy of 100 cats are no longer able to produce unwanted puppies and kittens.

Led by Dr Alexx DaCrosta DVM and her veterinary technicians Abi Avila and Melissa Carlson—all Houston-based professionals who volunteer their time for initiatives like this—the team worked tirelessly to meet the demands of the clinic’s long days. As veterans of Provo’s free clinics, they approached the project with admirable efficiency and dedication.

The combined efforts of TCSPCA and SNIP TCI ensured accessibility for pet owners without transportation. Animals were picked up and returned home daily, with additional measures like setting traps for unmanageable pets, monitored by volunteers, and bringing them to the clinic safely.

Dogs attending the clinic received core vaccines, essential protection against prevalent diseases such as parvovirus, as well as free collars. Pet owners

were reminded of the importance of vaccinating against this deadly illness, which remains a significant threat to puppies on the island. Residents of North and Middle

Caicos are encouraged to take advantage of the upcoming spay and neuter clinic hosted by TCSPCA from March 24th to 28th on North Caicos. As in

Welcoming your guest

A trip begins with the welcome, and welcoming your guest is very important. A smile goes a long way, no matter how many teeth you have left. That’s why ensuring someone is present when your guests arrive is a major asset for your bookings. This way, you’ll have every chance of getting a good rating on your listing. It’s a real opportunity for interaction; you’ll only meet the new tenants of your accommodation for a few minutes. The guests, for their part, will explore the premises and be able to ask any questions about the accommodation at check-in. Being courteous, friendly, and cheerful is all important; it’s the first impression they’ll have of you, your accommodation, and the city. Airbnb emphasises the importance of hospitality and has included it as a hospitality criterion with a separate rating during the guest’s evaluation of the accommodation. At the top of the welcome, start by setting a meeting time with guests to arrange key handover and check-in. When it

comes to communicating with your guests, you’ll find all the best practices in this guide dedicated to this topic. The more information you have, the more precise your arrival time will be. What time does their plane arrive? What means of transportation do they plan to use to get to your place? Advise them on the best modes of transportation. And make sure to let them know where the parking is located before their arrival.

All this information will also help you know what time you should be ready to welcome your guests. What time your apartment or house should be clean and ready for your new guests. Finding someone ready to answer their questions during check-in will be greatly appreciated by guests; they’ll undoubtedly wonder how the heating works, for example.

The question about the Wi-Fi password is one you’re (almost) certain you’re entitled to, so be sure you’re ready to answer it.

Now’s the time to explain the various features of your

accommodation. Demonstrate the appliances, for example; this will help new tenants understand how to use them. It’s much simpler and more enjoyable than reading instructions from a sheet of paper. Meeting your guests will be an opportunity to share your favourite places in person: the best restaurants, the nearest grocery stores, art gallery, tourist shop, etc. Leaving a map of the island will be a real plus to make their stay easier. Arrival marks the beginning of the guests’ stay. Their first impressions depend on you. The reviews left on your listing are just as important as the various features of your accommodation. A property with glowing reviews about the welcome will definitely be favoured. These reviews can only enhance your listing and help you stand out from other similar properties. Above all, it’s the welcome that will make the difference in the eyes of guests. Every little attention is always rewarded.

The arrival of your guests is one of

previous years, the Rathgebs have generously offered their property to house the event.

Supporters can help sustain these critical services by visiting

the TCSPCA website at www. tcspca.tc. . Donations can be made through PayPal, and the website provides a wish list for those looking to contribute in other ways.

COLUMN DENIS BELANGER

Denis Belanger is a landscaper, he trained in Canada in landscape architecture and studied the Art of Garden in Italy. He arrived in the TCI in 2008, where he first worked for a local company before opening his landscaping company. He then had a personal experience with Property Management, and his love and passion for his new experience gave him the drive to open his company Turks & Caicos Villas and Gardens

the services rated by Airbnb, along with the accuracy of your listing, communication, the cleanliness of your accommodation, the location, and the value for money. The average of these criteria makes up your listing’s rating, visible when you search for accommodations on Airbnb. Other short-term rental platforms only offer a single rating, and these thoughtful touches can only help you achieve a 5-star rating.

If you have any questions about

property management, or if you are looking for a company to take care of your property, do not hesitate to contact Turks and Caicos Villas and Gardens at denisbgarden@ gmail.com. You can also visit us at www.turks-and-caicos-villas. com and on our Facebook page at Turks & Caicos Villas. If you are a restaurateur, craftsman, sports company, or anything else related to tourism and would like us to write about you, do not hesitate to contact me.

The clinic would not have been as successful without the cooperation of TCI pet owners (Facebook photos)

TCI poised for economic boom as trade alliance hosts landmark exhibition with DR

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The TCI-DR Trade Alliance is set to host its first-ever trade exhibition on 25 March at the Shore Club. This event aims to strengthen ties between the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Dominican Republic while providing a platform for local businesses to engage with a wide range of suppliers and investors.

With existing trade between the two nations exceeding $100 million annually, the exhibition represents a concerted effort to formalise and expand these economic relationships, potentially driving down costs and opening new avenues for growth.

The TCI Trade Alliance, a body comprising eight dedicated board members, has been working diligently to facilitate this burgeoning trade relationship.

At a press conference held at the Turks and Caicos Real Estate Association (TCREA) office in Grace Bay, Providenciales, on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, Norman Hamilton, Director of the TCI-DR Trade Alliance, laid out the organisation’s vision.

He said: “The purpose of our organisation is to facilitate greater trade between the Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic.

“Trade between Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic goes back as far as the 1940s, and that was trading in seafood and other commercial goods. It is as long and as old as our trade with Haiti and the Caicos Islands back in those days.”

He explained that trade between the Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic currently

exceeds $100 million “primarily in aggregates like sand, cement, other building materials, some foodstuffs.”

Hamilton said: “Added to that $100 million, though, is quite a bit of medical trade, as those of you in the media would know, although it’s one way, but there’s a significant amount of Turks and Caicos Islanders who are being treated for health reasons in the Dominican Republic. So obviously, it’s trading for them, and there’s a growing tourist trade between here and the Dominican Republic. There’s also labour trade from the Dominican Republic to the Turks and Caicos.”

He added: “So I’ve said all that to say that we have built a relationship that we, on our end, would like to weave a little bit better, a little bit tighter, a little bit

stronger, because we think there is an economic benefit for both sides and for us in the Turks and Caicos.”

Hamilton further emphasised the potential benefits for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He said: “I think with greater trade to the Dominican Republic, we can bring down the costs of some foodstuffs, we can bring down the cost of some building materials. And these are the kinds of things that we want to explore,” he explained.

The alliance is working closely with the Turks and Caicos Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce, an independent organisation established to foster greater trade within the region.

Cesar Campbell, another member of the TCI-DR Trade Alliance Board, also speaking at the press briefing,

highlighted the broader scope of the initiative, which extends beyond trade to include investment.

He said: “We’re not only promoting trade, but also investment, inward investment as well. And I dare say that Turks Islanders are already investing in the Dominican Republic in one way or another,” Campbell stated.

He described the trade show as “essentially a brainchild of the board,” designed to “introduce potential traders in the Dominican Republic to buyers in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Campbell also expressed a desire for greater organisation and formalisation of the existing trade between the two island nations.

He said: “We’re doing more trade with the Dominican Republic than we’re doing with anybody

else. What we hope to do in the long term is to have that organised, to have representatives here, have people working on the concept and building a real trade relationship.”

The trade show, scheduled for Tuesday, 25 March, from 9 am to 5 pm at the Shore Club, will feature an opening ceremony and buyer/ exporter meetings.

Attendees will begin arriving on 23 March, with a welcome reception hosted by TIDES Grace Bay on 24 March and a closing reception hosted by BAL4 Cigar Lounge on 26 March.

The event has attracted significant sponsorship, including platinum sponsors such as Invest Turks and Caicos, Pro Dominicana, Hardrock Concrete Company, Tropical Shipping, Ports Authority, interCaribbean Airways, and Mesa Redonda De Los Paises De La Mancomunidad En La Republica Dominicana. Additional sponsors include TCHTA, BAL4, and Tides Grace Bay.

A diverse array of exporters from the Dominican Republic will be in attendance, representing sectors such as spare parts, vegetables, health logistics, juices, avocado oil, prefabricated concrete, visual services, cement, flour, pasta, and more.

Confirmed attendees from the Turks and Caicos Islands include major supermarkets, home centres, distributors, resorts, and eye specialists.

With the potential to significantly boost the local economy and strengthen regional ties, the 1st TCI-DR Trade Alliance Trade Show is poised to be a landmark event for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The exhibition will be held on March 25 at the Shore Club

TCI-DR Trade Alliance Board Members: Mr Phillip Misick, Mr Norman Hamilton, and Mr Ceaser Campbell during the press briefing

(L-R) Mr Ceaser Campbell, Mr Norman Hamilton, and Mr Phillip Misick

Regional

Govt targets $866m slash to Bahamas’ national debt

The government is predicting it will slash its direct debt by $866m during the three fiscal years to endJune 2028 as a result of generating three consecutive annual fiscal surpluses.

The government’s medium-term debt management strategy, which was yesterday tabled in the House of Assembly by the Prime Minister, forecast that it will produce this “overall debt repayment” for the fiscal years 2025-2026 through to 2027-2028 via successive annual Budget surpluses of close to halfa-billion dollars.

The report, which reveals the government is seeking to finance 80 percent of its borrowing needs for those three years from domestic or Bahamian dollar lending sources, suggests the Davis administration remains firmly wedded to the fiscal targets set in the 2024-2025 Budget despite incurring a $394.8m halfyear deficit which is more than five times’ or $325m higher than the full-year goal.

The government is still forecasting that it will generate three consecutive fiscal surpluses, ranging between $448.2m and $467.9m, for the period covered by the report. Without these surpluses, and the government’s revenue income exceeding total spending by a combined $1.374bn during that time, it will not be able to achieve the projected $866m reduction in The Bahamas’ national debt.

But, should these projections hold true, the Davis administration is predicting that its chosen debt management strategy will produce

a net $603m reduction in the government’s foreign currency debt and a further $263m decline in domestic Bahamian dollar liabilities through to the end of the 2027-2028 fiscal year. “A negative figure represents an overall debt repayment,” the strategy report confirmed;

The government, for the next three years, has elected to manage its debt through a strategy that focuses on developing the domestic Bahamian capital markets while also concentrating on managing refinancing, or rollover, risks.

To do so, it will seek to issue “longer-term domestic instruments” such as bonds, and move away from shorter-term Treasury Bills, in a bid to extend and spread out when these mature and become due for repayment to investors so that the government does not face multiple debt refinancings at the same time. And, on the foreign currency side, it will continue to seek “semiconcessional”, lower interest rate multilateral financing.

According to the government’s projections, the selected strategy will leave it - by end-June 2028 - with the lowest proportion of debt maturing within one year out of all three options assessed. The average time-to-maturity for debt issues would also be the greatest of the three, while foreign currency debt as a percentage of The Bahamas’ external reserves would be the lowest at 23.5 percent.

“The optimum debt strategy

selected through this process seeks to predominantly utilise domestic sources of financing to mitigate foreign currency risk and promote the development of the domestic capital market,” the government’s debt strategy report said.

“The strategy also prioritises utilising more fixed interest rate instruments, extending maturities and implementing liability management operations to manage refinancing risk, lengthen the average time to maturity of the portfolio and control interest rate risk, while balancing cost.

“The financing mix that minimises costs and risks of the debt stock suggests gross external and domestic borrowings in the ratio of 20 percent and 80 percent, respectively.” But, in a nod to global stock market turbulence and economic uncertainty caused by Donald Trump’s trade and tariff policies, the government acknowledged that there may be

Bahamas: PM signs new LNG Terminal Agreement

PRIME Minister Philip Davis signed two agreements on Thursday to facilitate the country’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Clifton Pier.

The first agreement for Terminal Development and Use was signed with New Providence Gas (NPG), a subsidiary of FOCOL Holdings Limited. The second agreement for LNG Supply was signed with Shell.

Mr Davis flagged the move as a major step in the government’s energy reform efforts and “embracing cleaner energy”.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Davis acknowledged the longstanding challenges of

high electricity costs, outdated infrastructure, and a debt-laden Bahamas Power and Light (BPL).

Phase one of the LNG terminal project is set to begin “before the end of the year”.

Mr Davis said: “We see the integration of LNG into our fuel mix as a major step in the right direction as we move away from “dirtier” fossil fuels, such as diesel and oil, significantly lowering our carbon emissions. LNG is also typically cheaper and has less price volatility compared to diesel and oil.”

He continued: “Because we are building a new industry, we can also anticipate significant

economic impact, including the creation of new jobs.”

Mr Davis pointed to ongoing efforts to modernize the power grid and expand utility-scale solar projects to several islands, including Abaco, Andros, Eleuthera, and Exuma.

He also commended Minister of Energy JoBeth ColebyDavis and Attorney General Ryan Pinder for their roles in advancing the project.

“This agreement represents an essential component in our energy reform and economic development plans,” Davis said. “We still have a long way to go, but the Bahamian people are already feeling the results.”

(Tribune242)

“deviations from this strategy”.

The opposition and other fiscal observers are also likely to challenge the government’s fiscal projections as being too ambitious and optimistic - especially given the 2024-2025 half-year deficit. It will need to achieve its $69.8m full-year deficit target, and meet the projected three consecutive annual surpluses, if it is to hit the forecast $866m net repayment that will cut the national debt by the same amount.

And, even before the recent Trump-instigated turmoil and chaos, the government was acknowledging that economic growth over the three years covered by the strategy report will be “subdued”. Given that The Bahamas’ consumption-based tax revenues are so closely linked to growth, this could impact the Davis administration’s ambitions to generate $4bn and more in annual revenues in the upcoming three fiscal years.

“Over the three-year mediumterm debt strategy timeframe, the economic outlook envisages a continuation of the subdued growth trajectory, with real GDP poised to average an estimated 1.6 percent consistent with the projected longrun potential,” the report said.

“Enhanced tax administration, combined with targeted tax policy measures and prudent expenditure controls, are forecasted to reduce the overall deficit-to-GDP ratio to the medium-term statutory target of 0.5 percent in fiscal year 2024-2025 and secure surpluses averaging an estimated 2.3 percent of GDP over the medium-term debt strategy horizon.”

The government is projecting that its chosen debt management strategy, together with successive fiscal surpluses, will see The Bahamas’ debt-to-GDP ratio progressively decrease towards its long-run 50 percent target so that it hits 61.5 percent at end-June 2028. This compares to 81.5 percent at end-December 2024.

This improvement is forecast despite the strategy report

conceding that The Bahamas’ economic growth “is expected to taper” to 1.7 percent in 2025, and then “further to its long-run potential of 1.5 percent in 2029averaging 1.33 percent for the three years to 2027”. Inflation, though, was forecast to ease to 2.2 percent in 2025 and to 2 percent in 2029projections likely made before the Trump tariffs surfaced.

Also sticking to its target 25 percent revenue-to-GDP ratio by the upcoming 2025-2026 fiscal year, the report reiterated the government’s faith that this can be attained through enhanced tax administration, compliance and enforcement as well as broadening the tax base. It again pointed to the expected annual $140m “in new revenue” from the newlyimplemented 15 percent corporate income tax on large multinationals.

“Baseline fiscal assumptions also incorporate the government’s objective to reduce recurrent expenditure to roughly 20 percent of GDP by fiscal year 20252026 through targeted spending initiatives,” the report added.

“Altogether, these objectives are anticipated to secure an overall fiscal deficit of no more than 0.5 percent of GDP in fiscal 20242025, consolidating into overall surpluses and primary balances over the medium-term averaging 2.8 percent of GDP and 6.2 percent of GDP, respectively.”

The government is predicting it will generate $1bn-plus primary surpluses, which do not include debt servicing costs, for all three years.

“Refinancing risk is the most prominent risk in The Bahamas’ debt portfolio given the heavy reliance on short-term domestic financing instruments,” the government’s debt strategy report added. “Efforts are ongoing to maintain the redemption profile of government securities as smooth as possible over the long-term.”

Turning to the distribution of bond maturities and redemptions between 2025 and 2033, it said: “Although the maturity profile for domestic bonds is relatively evenly spaced, there is an increase in refinancing risk associated with external bond maturities in the coming years, which the government intends to mitigate through buy backs and switch auctions.”

The government said The Bahamas’ membership of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) will give it access “to a new funding envelope of at least $200m annually” to support climate change, digital economy and infrastructure-related policy initiatives.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis

Regional

in President’s Trump draft for partial travel suspensions if their respective governments do not address unspecified “deficiencies” within 60 days

Caribbean leaders seek clarity as US mulls sweeping travel bans

Leaders from across the Caribbean are seeking clarity after a draft of a US government list of over 40 countries which could face sweeping travel restrictions was made public, a move which could mark the latest in President Donald Trump’s crackdown on migration.

US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce disavowed the list on Monday, but stipulated “there is a review through the president’s executive order for us to look at the nature of what’s going on to keep America safer and dealing with the issue of visas and who’s allowed into the country.”

President Trump’s administration has vowed mass deportations of migrants in the US illegally. Half of the countries on the list in circulation are African, while seven more are located around the Caribbean.

The small island nations of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Saint Lucia were also listed in the draft for partial travel suspensions if their respective governments do not address unspecified “deficiencies” within 60 days.

Leaders from those nations have responded saying they have received no communication from the United States on the potential ban, nor on concerns raised about their governance. In a Saturday letter seen by Reuters, Antigua and Barbuda’s embassy in Washington expressed its “deep concern” and requested the US clarify the potential travel bans and “details

Violence triggers record displacements in Haiti’s capital

Gang violence, displacement and instability have long gripped Portau-Prince and other parts of the country, but attacks over the past two months have shattered even the few remaining gang-free areas, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable.

The Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-auPrince remains closed, and many neighbourhoods – once seen as relatively safe – are now under siege.

Areas including Delmas, Carrefour-Feuilles, Martissant, Fort National, Pétion-Ville and Tabarre have been heavily impacted, forcing thousands of residents to flee in search of safety.

The majority have sought refuge in 48 displacement sites, including 12 newly established ones, while others rely on overstretched host families for shelter.

fled

one million people now forcibly displaced – three times the number recorded just a year ago.

of any ‘deficiencies’ perceived by agencies of the United States so that they may be promptly discussed and remedied.”

“A review is not a ban,” its ambassador to the United States, Ronald Sanders, told Reuters. “A review can lead to satisfaction as much as anything else.”

Dominica’s prime minister said he was making the necessary enquiries, while Saint Kitts and Nevis said it “has maintained consistent and open dialogue” with the US and would provide updates should it receive any official communication.

According to the list, Haiti – which is facing a devastating gang conflict that has forced over 1 million from their homes and which the U.N. has warned is being fuelled by guns shipped from Florida – would be subject to partial suspensions, including for students and tourists.

The US government last month decided to speed up the expiration of deportation protections and work permits for 521,000 Haitians covered by a temporary program by some six months.

Meanwhile, Cuba and Venezuela would face a complete visa suspension. Both leftist-run countries have tense relations with the Trump administration and are facing deep economic crises that have caused many to seek migration to the United States.

The Cuban, Venezuelan and Haitian governments did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment. (BBC)

“This alarming surge in displacements underscores the relentless cycle of violence devastating Haiti’s capital,” said Grégoire Goodstein, the UN migration agency’s (IOM) chief in Haiti.

“We have never observed such a large number of people moving in this short time. Families are being uprooted time and time again, forced to leave everything behind as they flee for safety. Many of those displaced were already living in precarious conditions after previous displacements,” he explained.

The crisis has reached unprecedented levels, with over

Yet, as suffering reaches new extremes, Haiti’s crisis continues to struggle for the world’s attention, and humanitarian efforts remain severely underfunded.

Humanitarian agencies warn that the situation is reaching a breaking point.

“People fleeing violence need immediate protection, food, water and shelter. The situation is worsening by the day, and without additional support, we risk seeing an even greater humanitarian catastrophe unfold,” emphasised Mr. Goodstein.

IOM continues its work in providing lifesaving assistance to displaced communities in Haiti.

In the past month alone, over 16,000 people were reached with

Port-au-Prince

clean water and hygiene support, while 3,700 people benefited from emergency shelter, hygiene kits, medical care and psychosocial support.

Despite these efforts, the growing number of displaced persons has stretched available resources to the limit.

Beyond immediate aid, security in Haiti remains a pressing concern. Without greater international support, including enhanced resources for the Haitian National Police, restoring stability and protecting vulnerable communities will remain a challenge, IOM explained.

From emergency relief to longterm recovery, the agency remains committed to providing relief and support for displaced Haitians, ensuring they receive the aid they need to survive and rebuild.

Grenada: PM calls for prayers as former PM Mitchell collapses

Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has asked the nation to keep former Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell in their prayers following a medical emergency at a public event.

Dr Keith Mitchell, the former Prime Minister and current Member of Parliament for St George North West, collapsed during a People’s Parliament session at Happy Hill Secondary School.

The Office of the Prime Minister of Grenada quickly issued a statement addressing the incident: “The Office of the Prime Minister is aware of the sudden collapse of Dr The Rt Hon Keith Mitchell, Member of Parliament for St George Northwest at an event at the Happy Hill Secondary School.”

In the statement, Prime Minister

Dr Keith Mitchell

Dickon Mitchell extended his “best wishes to him and his family” and wished Dr Mitchell “a speedy recovery.”

No additional information regarding Dr Mitchell’s current condition has been made available at this time. (Loop News)

Four small island nations in the Caribbean were also listed

A mother who

her home due to gang violence is now living in a shelter in a former church hall in

Reform UK row: Leaked messages reveal Farage fury with Lowe

Nigel Farage called the behaviour of suspended Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe “disgusting” and “contemptible” in private WhatsApp messages seen by the BBC.

In the messages, which were sent after Lowe criticised the Reform leader in a Daily Mail interview, Farage accused him of “damaging the party just before elections”.

Reform has always denied there was any connection between Lowe’s suspension and his criticism of the party.

In his Mail interview on 5 March, Lowe called Reform a “protest party” led by “the Messiah”. He was suspended on 7 March and reported to police over claims he had made threats of violence against party chairman Zia Yusuf.

Reform said it had also received allegations of bullying in Lowe’s MP offices. Lowe strongly denies all the allegations.

He has since accused Farage of a “malicious witch hunt” and being motivated “to remove me because I dared to ask questions”.

Farage has insisted the party was duty bound to look into any

allegations of wrongdoing.

Reform’s deputy leader Richard Tice previously told the BBC there was “absolutely no truth” in claims of a link between the decision to suspend Lowe and the allegations being made public.

But a series of messages between Farage and a long time activist who has worked for Lowe in recent years reveals Farage’s personal anger with Lowe about his comments to the Daily Mail.

In one message, Farage says Lowe is “contemptible”. When asked by the activist, who is not

currently a party member, why Reform had not allowed a lawyer to complete an investigation before suspending him Farage said: “Because he is damaging the party just before elections. Disgusting.”

When it was suggested the investigation into Lowe was a response to his criticism of the leadership, Farage replied on WhatsApp: “We are definitely damaged and within two weeks of nominations. Awful.”

Farage went on to say the Mail interview was a “side issue” and that the party had to investigate the

China executed four Canadians for drug crimes, says Ottawa

Four Canadians were executed in China on drug-related charges earlier this year, Canadian authorities have confirmed.

All of them were dual citizens and their identities have been withheld, Canada’s foreign minister Mélanie Joly said.

A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Canada reportedly urged Ottawa to “stop making irresponsible remarks”, as pundits feared a further downturn in relations between the countries after years of strain.

China’s foreign ministry said on Thursday that it had acted “in accordance with the law”, while the embassy said there was “solid and sufficient” evidence for their crimes.

Beijing had “fully guaranteed the rights and interests of the Canadian nationals concerned”, the embassy said, urging Canada to respect “China’s judicial sovereignty”.

China does not recognise dual citizenship and takes a tough stance on drug crimes. However, it’s rare for the death penalty to be carried out on foreigners.

Joly said she had been following the cases “very closely” for months and had tried with other officials,

The four executed Canadians were dual citizens, authorities say

including former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, to stop the executions.

In a statement to Canadian media, Global Affairs Canada spokeswoman Charlotte MacLeod said Canada had “repeatedly called for clemency for these individuals at the senior-most levels and remains steadfast in its opposition to the use of the death penalty in all cases, everywhere”.

China imposes the death penalty on serious crimes including those related to drugs, corruption and

claims against Lowe.

But the messages reveal a level of animosity between the suspended MP and his team and the Reform UK leadership, alongside the claims about his behaviour, which Lowe vehemently denies.

The BBC’s source is themselves the subject of an allegation of bullying, which they strenuously deny.

The BBC has spoken to several members of Rupert Lowe’s team. Among them are people who have worked alongside Nigel Farage for years and admired him.

But many now are deeply critical.

One said: “Nigel is thin skinned and egotistical. I have spent years defending him but the aura has gone for me now. Reporting Rupert to the police? Come on. They’re trying to put him in prison!”

The staff member went on to claim that the root of this whole

row was Elon Musk’s praise for Lowe on X, saying: “Nigel is very sensitive about his American contacts.”

Another staffer said: “It is absolutely terrible the party going to the police.

“You’d never find someone more kind and considerate than Rupert.

“If you don’t have policies as a party, you’re a joke and that is what Rupert was pointing out.”

The BBC has also seen evidence of lengthy and detailed exchanges between Lowe’s offices and Parliament’s human resources team over the alleged conduct and subsequent departures of two members of staff.

Lowe has long insisted that he and his staff diligently followed the due process parliament requires of them and there was no need for the party, or a senior lawyer hired by the party, to get involved.

Finland has been ranked as the world’s happiest country for the eighth successive year, with experts citing access to nature and a strong welfare system as factors.

espionage. While the number of executions are kept secret, human rights groups believe China has one of the highest execution rates in the world.

“These shocking and inhumane executions of Canadian citizens by Chinese authorities should be a wake-up call for Canada,” said Ketty Nivyabandi, from Amnesty International Canada. “We are devastated for the families of the victims, and we hold them in our hearts as they try to process the unimaginable.

It came ahead of three other Nordic countries in this year’s UN-sponsored World Happiness Report, while Latin America’s Costa Rica and Mexico entered the top 10 for the first time.

Both the UK and the US slipped down the list to 23rd and 24th respectively - the lowest-ever position for the latter.

The study also found strangers are about twice as kind as people think. It measured trust in strangers by deliberately losing wallets, seeing how many were returned and comparing that with how many people thought would be handed in.

The rate of wallets returned was almost twice as high as people predicted and the study, which gathered evidence from around the world, found belief in the kindness of others was more closely tied to happiness than previously thought.

John F. Helliwell, an economist at the University of British Columbia and a founding editor of the report, said the wallet experiment data showed “people are much happier living where they think people care about each other”.

The 13th annual World Happiness Report, released to mark the UN’s International Day of Happiness, ranks the world’s happiest countries by asking people to evaluate their lives.

Finland again took top spot with an average score of 7.736 out of 10, with Denmark in second.

Finland named as happiest country for eighth year

Finland named as happiest country for eighth year

Nigel Farage

Trump to order dismantling of US education department

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order on Thursday that aims to dismantle the Department of Education, the White House says.

The move, which he promised to do on the campaign trail, is already facing legal challenges from those seeking to block the department’s closure as well as the sweeping cuts to its staff announced last week.

Trump has long called for the department to be axed, a cherished goal of some conservatives, but completely eliminating it would require approval by Congress.

And that is seen as unlikely given the slim 53-47 majority Republicans hold in the Senate. Major legislation such as closing a department would require 60 votes.

But even if the department is not formally closed down, the Trump administration could decimate its funding and staff as it has done with the US Agency for International Development (USAID), which subsequently stopped the vast majority of its programmes and humanitarian work.

The president’s education department order is expected to be signed during a ceremony at the White House later on Thursday.

Republican state governors, including Florida’s Ron DeSantis are reportedly set to attend the signing.

The order would “expand educational opportunities” and “empower parents, states, and communities to take control and improve outcomes for all students,” a White House spokesman said on Wednesday.

Established in 1979, the education department oversees funding for public schools, administers student loans and runs programmes that help low-income students.

Trump has accused it of “indoctrinating young people with inappropriate racial, sexual, and political material”.

A common misconception is that the department operates US

schools and sets curricula - but that is done by states and local districts.

And a relatively small percentage of funding for primary and secondary schools - about 13% - comes from federal funds. The majority is made up from states and local groups.

The agency also plays a prominent role in administering and overseeing the federal student loans used by millions of Americans to pay for higher education.

Soon after she was sworn in, Trump’s Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent the department’s 4,400 employees a memo titled “Our Department’s Final Mission”.

“This is our opportunity to perform one final, unforgettable public service to future generations of students,” she wrote.

“I hope you will join me in ensuring that when our final mission is complete; we will be able to say that we left American education freer, stronger, and with more hope for the future.”

Earlier reports suggested Trump would look to end some of the department’s programmes and send others to different departments, such as the Treasury.

Trump and fellow Republicans have accused the department of promoting a “woke” political ideology, and say the department is pushing liberal views about gender and race.

America’s largest teachers’ union recently decried Trump’s plans, saying he “doesn’t care about opportunity for all kids”.

In its statement, the AFT, said:

“No one likes bureaucracy, and everyone’s in favour of more efficiency, so let’s find ways to accomplish that.

“But don’t use a ‘war on woke’ to attack the children living in poverty and the children with disabilities, in order to pay for vouchers and tax cuts for billionaires.”

Most US children attend public schools, which are free and governed by local officials. Nearly all of their funding comes

from state and local taxes and curriculum decisions are made by state governments and school districts.

The current cabinet-level department was established by Congress at the end of 1979. Two years later, former President Ronald Reagan, a Republican, started the call to undo it to save money and to favour “local needs and preferences”. It is the smallest agency in the president’s cabinet and takes up less than 2% of the total federal budget.

The department and its 4,400 employees do not operate schools or set their curriculum.

Some of those employees have already been caught up the Trump administration’s sweeping workforce cuts, led by a White House unit known as Doge. They were either urged to retire, laid off or put on paid administrative leave.

Elon Musk has led efforts by Doge, or the Department of Government Efficiency, to slash federal spending and radically restructure - or simply abolishmany government agencies. Last week, the Trump administration announced plans to cut about half of the education department’s workforce. The mass layoffs will affect nearly 2,100 people who are set to be placed on leave from 21 March. (BBC)

Sturgeon ‘relieved and vindicated’ as police investigation ends

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has spoken of her relief after it was confirmed she will face no action in the Police Scotland investigation into SNP finances.

The announcement came as her estranged husband, ex-SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court charged with embezzlement.

He made no plea during a private hearing and was granted bail.

Police also confirmed former SNP treasurer Colin Beattie was no longer under investigation.

Making a statement outside her Glasgow home, Ms Sturgeon said had been told she was now “completely in the clear”.

She told reporters: “For almost two years, I have had this cloud of investigation hanging over me.

“I think it won’t surprise anybody to hear me say that has not been an easy experience. So to reach this point today is obviously something I am relieved about.”

The former first minister said: “I have done nothing wrong, and I don’t think there was ever a scrap of evidence that I had done anything wrong.”

In addition to a sense of relief, Ms Sturgeon said the police announcement provided her with “a bit of vindication as well”.

Ms Sturgeon and Mr Murrell recently announced they were separated and in the process of ending their marriage.

Mr Murrell was charged in April of last year, having been arrested and released without charge the previous year.

He is understood to have resigned his SNP membership.

Mr Beattie, the SNP MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, was arrested and released without charge in April 2023.

Two months later Ms Sturgeon was also arrested and released without charge.

Police Scotland confirmed that inquiries into both Ms Sturgeon and Mr Beattie had now “concluded”.

The force said the pair had “not been charged and are no longer under investigation”.

Mr Beattie said he was “very relieved” to be told he was no

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon

longer under investigation.

“I knew myself I had done nothing wrong but two years is a long time to be waiting for a result,” he told reporters at Holyrood

The MSP said it had been a “hard time” for his family, adding: “I’m certainly going to be raising a glass with my ife tonight that’s for sure.”

First Minister John Swinney

said he shared Ms Sturgeon and Mr Beattie’s relief.

“I hope this provides the opportunity for both Nicola and Colin to move on from the difficulties they have faced while this investigation has been under way,” he said.

The first minister, Ms Sturgeon’s former deputy, acknowledged the inquiry had been “very difficult”

for the SNP.

He said the court proceedings opened the possibility that the party had been the potential victim of embezzlement., and that he would ensure the “highest standards of governance and financial control” under his leadership.

Ms Sturgeon unexpectedly announced her resignation as first minister and SNP leader in February 2023 after eight years in office.

She denied her decision was influenced by the police investigation.

Mr Murrell resigned as SNP chief executive a month later having taken responsibility for misleading the media about party membership numbers.

In April 2023, the home he shared with Ms Sturgeon was searched by police officers looking into what happened to £660,000 of donations given to the SNP by independence activists.

Police also searched the SNP’s headquarters in Edinburgh and confiscated a luxury motorhome parked in the driveway of Mr Murrell’s mother in Fife.

Trump has long called for the department to be axed

LEAD PAINTER

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare surfaces for painting, including cleaning, sanding, and priming.

• Apply paint, varnishes, and finishes to a variety of surfaces.

• Manage painting tools and equipment to ensure safety and efficiency.

• Provide high-quality work on residential and commercial projects.

• Ensure work is completed on time and to client specifications.

• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as a professional painter (10+ years preferred USA and/or Central and South America’).

• Knowledge of painting techniques, tools, and materials.

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

• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

• Strong work ethic and reliable transportation.

• certifications and licenses are required.

Salary: $900.00 per week

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

MAGIC MIRROR

Morris Plaza, Airport Road 342-8072

HAIR STYLIST

$8.00

Styling women, men children hair, cut, wash, treatment color.

AUNELL L. WILLIAMS Cox Drive, Kew Town 243-1294

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my 3 children, monitor them after school, bath them and feed them, wash, iron, cook and clean the house

ISLAND BEST VARIETY 343-0822

Alice & Alice 203, Airport Road

LABOURER

$8.00

Cleaning the store, stock goods on shelves, unloading container

IVANELLE J. FRANCOIS 242-2716

Blue Hills

GENERAL STUDIES TEACHER

Bachelors/Master’s Degree from reputable institution, 5-7 years minimum teaching experience in primary and/or secondary education. Experience with Christian education curriculum. Specialties in Mathematics and Science is a plus

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualified applicants for all positions must be a born-again Christian, active in their church, known to their Pastor and believe in the work of the Holy Spirit; Must be of good moral character and reputation; Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to adapt to a flexible working environment; Must be enthusiastic and creative with an excellent work ethic, and a willingness to build character and Christian values in students

Submit resume and three references with telephone numbers and addresses including one from current Pastor. Salary starts at - $1,500.00 monthly

Positions are held by work permit holders. Belongers should submit copy of resume to the Labor Board.

No phone calls please

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my household, wash, iron, cook and clean the house

GLORY GROCERY STORE & SALON 348-8986

Five Cays

Cleaning the store, stock goods on shelves, unloading container

W & M CONSTRUCTION 345-7733

Five Cays

LABOURER

$8.00

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

FISH & THING

344-3858

Dock Yard

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Cleaning my home, wash, iron, cook clean, clean my business, dust inside the store and maintain the cleanliness of business.

JACOB CAMPBELL

342-2981 Five Cays

HELPER

$8.00

Cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste.

FRANCIETTE F. JOSEPH ALCE

343-1117

Five Cays

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my children and my home

MARKENLEY AMILCAR

246-6784

Blue Hills

LABOURER

$8.00

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

LOUIZANNE JEAN BAPTISTE 343-5773 Blue Hills

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my children and my home

PIERRE BORGELLA

Behind Mara, Blue Hills 432-8459

TILE MAN

$15.00

Laying tile and grout out tile

ROBERT PIERRE VICTOR 241-7016

Behind Mara, Blue Hills

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my sick wife, monitor her, prepare her meal, bath her and light housekeeping

EROLD NOEL 343-6204

Wheeland $ 8.00

LABOURER

$8.00

cleaning the property, pick up waste and dispose waste

LANDSCAPER

GLOBAL FIRM LOCAL INSIGHTS

Grant Thornton Turks & Caicos Ltd (“GT”) is a member firm of the Grant Thornton International network and has opportunities available in our audit department for:

VARIOUS

COYABA RESTAURANT

Grace Bay, Tel: 946-5186

MIXOLOGIST

$600 p/w + tip

Setting up of the bar daily

RIPPLES LTD.

P.O Box 459, Provo, Tel: 46-5186

CHEF DE PARTIE

$600.00 p/w tip

Assist in preparation private cheffing

HUBSON JENNINGS

Blue Hills, Tel: 341-4502

LABOURER $8.00 p/h

Performing general maintenance

GIGI’S DELI

Providenciales Airport

Tel: 649-332-9681

CASHIER $8.00 p/h

Processing sales transactions and taking payments.

VANISE BASSETT

Kewtown, Provo

Tel: 342-9278

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Do general cleaning

JENO GARDINER

North Caicos, Tel: 331-2441

LABOURER $8.00 p/h

Performing general work

PJ’S BARBER SHOP & BEAUTY SALON

Leeward Hwy Laporte Plaza, Turks & Caicos Islands

COSMETOLOGIST $8.00 p/h

Shampoos, conditions, and treats hair.

RONA CHARLES PETRO

Five Cays

Tel: 342-7954

DOMESTIC WORKER $8.00 p/h

Performed deep cleaning tasks including dusting, vacuuming, and polishing

LAVISH LOOKS

Five Cays

Tel: 649-332-9257

COSMETOLOGIST $8.00

shaping, cutting, and curling hair. BARBER $8.00 p/h

shaving, beard and mustache grooming, hairpiece fittings

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Qualified ACA, ACCA, CPA or ACMA with a minimum of 5 years’ post qualification experience including managing a portfolio of clients and other team members.

• Extensive knowledge of QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online

DUTIES:

• Lead a team of bookkeepers and senior associates to deliver accounting services to a broad portfolio of clients

• Prepare and maintain financial records for clients and prepare financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

• Liaise on accounting issues with vendors, banks and Government bodies on behalf of clients

• Identify and implement efficiencies in the upkeep of accounting records, including automation of processes

• Act as key liaison with clients

• Evaluate internal controls identifying weaknesses therein and making appropriate recommendations to management for improvement

• Coach staff by providing candid, timely and constructive feedback, and act as a counsellor for assigned bookkeepers and senior associates

Indicative salary: $80,000 per annum

PROGRAMME MANAGER

Job Reference No: GTESA - 2

Grade: 8

Salary: $75,363 (TCIG Grade 9 Equivalent)

Reports to: Managing Director

Agency: Grand Turk Enhancement and Sustainability Agency (GTESA) Responsible Ministry: Office of the Premier and Public Policy

JOB PURPOSE

The post-holder will have responsibility for ensuring the successful delivery to time, quality and budget of a portfolio of infrastructure projects and services, in accordance with best practice project management methodologies. The post-holder will be responsible for managing projects through the project management life-cycle from inception to project closure, working with the internal team and third-party suppliers’ delivery teams.

The post-holder must be a mature, highly experienced and capable professional who is fully accountable for managing the effective and efficient deployment and delivery of an assigned portfolio of project and initiatives. They must be skilled in project management and able to manage multiple tasks effectively, and possess the background knowledge and experience of information technology to make informed and responsible decisions. The post-holder will be required to produce and maintain project management deliverables, such as the project charter, business case, project plan, status reports and project registers, such as the risk, issues and benefits registers.

The post-holder must be competent at managing the project financing, this includes preparing budgets, tracking project spend and project finance reporting.

The post-holder will be expected to be adept at must build effective working relationships with senior stakeholders, his peers across diverse infrastructure stakeholders as well as third party suppliers. Furthermore, the post-holder must be an effectively and persuasively communicator both verbally and in writing.

DIMENSIONS

The successful delivery of projects is an important contributor to our continuous improvement. The post-holder will be part of a Team that delivers infrastructure and aesthetic improvements to the island of Grand Turk.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Overall responsibility and accountability for the successful delivery of an assigned portfolio of projects to time, quality and budget. To manage the portfolio of projects through the project management life-cycle from inception to project closure. To lead on the project scoping and budgeting and to ensure that project finances are managed in line with the agreed budget. To produce and maintain project management deliverables, such as the project mandate, project initiation document, project definition document, project plan, status reports and project registers, such as the change management, risk, issues and benefits registers. To actively drive all phases of the project life cycle and proactively manage and mitigate risks.

Undertakes procurement process to facilitate the timely delivery of assigned projects based on the Turks and Caicos Islands Government’s Public Procurement Ordinance.

Ensures timely management of anticipated cost savings, payback period, and operational expenditure in relation to approved budget for all assigned projects.

Manages relationship with service providers, outsourcers and major vendors to address, escalate, and resolve key issues in a timely and effective manner

Proactively identifies changes in work scope and ensures that appropriate planning measures are taken with internal and external stakeholders to reassess, renegotiate, and amend scope of work responsibilities.

Builds positive and effective business relationships with stakeholders. Undertake post-implementation reviews as part of project closure and to produce a report on the findings as part of continuous improvement.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

ESSENTIAL

The post-holder should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Site Management, or equivalent; plus, a minimum of seven (7) years’ post-graduate experience in building; or an Associate’s degree in Architecture, Construction Management or similar discipline plus a minimum of ten (10) years’ post-graduate experience in site management, construction coordination or contract management. Additionally, the post-holder is required to have a formal project management certification, such as PMP or have solid practical experience.

Evidence of management skills, in controlling projects and managing staff, and in the execution of difficult and complex organisational tasks along with the knowledge of principles, methods, techniques and tools for the effective management of projects from initiation through to completion is required.

The post-holder should be proficient in the use of Project Management tools to assist in the project planning, managing project registers and for Team collaboration.

EVIDENCE OF KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Track record of successfully delivering portfolio of projects.

• Experience of delivery technology and security related projects.

• Solid practical experience of risk management, change management, release management and supplier management experience.

• Hold PMP certification or equivalent or have solid practical experience.

• Experience of creating and maintaining project plans in MS Project or similar tool.

• Excellent written and verbal skills with experience of senior stakeholder management including presentation and negotiation skills.

• Solid practical experience of managing vendor selection process, including managing preparation of RFQ.

• Strong people management skills within a matrix management environment.

• Strong effectively and persuasively communicator both verbally and in writing.

ASSIGNMENT AND PLANNING OF WORK

The post-holder receives strategic direction from the Managing Director. He/ she is expected to collaborate with other team members and to draw on his/ her experience, research and initiative to deliver on the core responsibilities of the role.

On a day to day basis, he/she will be expected to work independently with very little supervision and to prioritize his/her own work to meet tight and often competing deadlines. All deadlines, demands and expectations must be met in a timely manner.

SUPERVISION OF OTHERS

The post-holder will be the main point of contact and support for the internal project teams and third party supplier delivery teams. He/she will monitor, support and report on the performance of project teams, as well as external advisers and consultants from a variety of fields and areas of expertise.

OTHER WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

The post-holder must work effectively with members of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PIPD) and staff as well as having direct and regular interface with stakeholders throughout Government and the Private Sector whilst carrying out the duties of this post.

MAKO WATER SPORTS LTD.

2nd Floor, LeVel Plaza, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

MAKO WATERSPORTS LTD. is looking for an experienced and passionate watersport photographer to join our team. As our watersport photographer, you will be responsible for capturing stunning photos and videos of clients while they enjoying our tours. You will need to be an excellent diver, swimmer, know how to maneuver a jet ski, as well as have experience with using a variety of photography equipment and editing software tools. Must be available to work 44 hours a week inclusive of holidays and weekends

QUALIFICATIONS

• Open Water Certificate

• Diploma/Certification as a professional photographer

• 3+ years photography experience

• Proficiency with GoPro, Drone, DSLR cameras and underwater housing systems

• Excellent swimming and free diving skills

• Strong attention to detaill and ability to work well independently

• Experience shooting video and working with video editing software

• Familiarity with photoshop and other image-editing software

• Must have own equipment’s Salary: $2,000.00 per month

JOB TITLE: PROGRAMME MANAGER

DECISION MAKING AUTHORITY AND CONTROLS

The post holder works within the parameters established by GTESA, the responsible Ministry and all governing laws, policies and procedures.

The post holder will take decisions on matters within the ambit of the principal accountabilities of the post.

The post holder operates under the direction of the Managing Director and is required to keep him/her apprised of key developments, risks or issues.

PROBLEMS/KEY FEATURES

Must achieve a high level of knowledge of many different aspects of how the Government operates because GTESA is an arms-length body.

There is also the need be respected as a leader and to maintain high levels of professional knowledge and experience of fast changing technology and techniques.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Normal office working environment: however, abnormal hours are worked in order to meet tight deadlines, and to implement system changes which must be done outside normal working hour.

Required to provide user/stakeholder support outside normal working hours.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

The Grand Turk Enhancement and Sustainability Agency is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.

WAREHOUSE MANAGER

The Warehouse Manager oversees all aspects of warehouse operations, including receiving, storing, and distributing goods. This role involves supervising staff, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations to maintain an efficient and secure warehouse environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise daily warehouse activities, including receiving, storage, and dispatching of goods.

• Monitor inventory levels, conduct regular stock audits, and reconcile physical counts with system records.

• Lead, train, and evaluate warehouse personnel, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

• Implement and enforce safety protocols to ensure a secure working environment and compliance with regulatory standards.

• Analyze operational processes and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

• Maintain accurate records of inventory transactions and generate regular reports for management review.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience as a Warehouse Manager or in a similar role.

• Proficiency in warehouse management systems (WMS) and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.

• In-depth knowledge of warehouse and inventory management best practices.

• Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.

• Understanding of safety and regulatory standards in warehouse operations.

• Ability to lift and move heavy items as needed.

Drake’s label UMG says he ‘lost a rap battle’ with Lamar, seeks to dismiss his defamation lawsuit

Universal Music Group is requesting to dismiss Drake’s federal defamation lawsuit against the label over Kendrick Lamar’s blockbuster song “Not Like Us,” saying in a legal filing that the rapper’s lawsuit is a “misguided attempt to salve his wounds” after he “lost a rap battle that he provoked.”

The eye-popping comments from Universal Music Group (UMG) came in a filing submitted Monday in which the company asked a judge to dismiss the defamation lawsuit, which Drake filed in January.

“Instead of accepting the loss like the unbothered rap artist he often claims to be, he has sued his own record label in a misguided attempt to salve his wounds,” the filing read.

Drake is currently represented by Republic Records, a division of UMG, and Lamar – who is not directly named in the lawsuit – is currently represented by Interscope Records, also a division of UMG.

In a statement to CNN on Tuesday, Mike Gottlieb, Drake’s lead attorney, called UMG’s motion a “desperate ploy” to “avoid accountability.”

“UMG wants to pretend that this is about a rap battle in order to distract its shareholders, artists and the public from a simple truth: a greedy company is finally being held responsible for profiting from

dangerous misinformation that has already resulted in multiple acts of violence,” the statement read.

CNN has reached out to representatives for UMG for comment.

The dispute stems from last year’s feud wherein Drake and Lamar traded increasingly personal and unverified insults in a series of songs. The lawsuit specifically pertains to “Not Like Us,” in which Lamar claimed Drake was a “certified pedophile,” an allegation that the Canadian rapper denies.

The label argued that Drake’s lawsuit must be dismissed because Lamar’s chart-topping diss track wasn’t defamatory – rather, “it clearly conveys nonactionable opinion and rhetorical hyperbole.”

“Diss tracks are a popular and

celebrated artform centered around outrageous insults, and they would be severely chilled if Drake’s suit were permitted to proceed,” the petition read.

The label’s lawyers also noted that Drake “had no concerns using UMG’s platform to publish slurs about Lamar during their rap feud,” including unproven claims of domestic violence.

HOW WE GOT HERE

Drake filed a pre-action petition in November that preceded his defamation suit, in which he alleged that UMG “conspired” to artificially boost Lamar’s “Not Like Us” on Spotify, according to a copy of the petition, obtained by CNN.

The petition does not accuse

Lamar of any wrongdoing.

In it, Drake claimed that UMG “launched a campaign to manipulate and saturate the streaming services and airwaves” with Lamar’s song “in order to make that song go viral,” and that the label used “bots” and “pay-toplay agreements” to achieve that.

“To be clear, UMG disputes the contention that anyone paid for or otherwise used bots to inflate streams of ‘Not Like Us,’ as there is no evidence of any such stream manipulation, and the record evidence—filed in a separate legal proceeding that Drake initiated against UMG but then abandoned earlier this year—is to the contrary,” UMG’s rebuttal this week read.

The song is part of what became a public feud between Lamar and Drake that started in October 2023 and played out over the following year. “Not Like Us” was the breakout song of the so-called rap battle, debuting at No. 1 on the Hot 100 when it was released in May 2024 and going on to win five Grammys in January. Lamar also performed the song in February during his Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans.

Drake’s defamation lawsuit, filed in January against the label, accuses UMG of defaming him in the publishing and promotion of “Not Like Us.” He is seeking compensatory and punitive damages.

After poisonous PR, ‘Snow White’ has ‘heighho’pes for a

fairy tale ending at the box office

In the suit, Drake cites an attempted break-in that occurred at his Toronto home that resulted in a security guard he employed getting shot.

He claims that the incident occurred as a result of UMG launching a campaign to make “a viral hit out of a rap track that falsely accuses Drake of being a pedophile and calls for violent retribution against him.”

Drake also claims that while UMG “enriched itself and its shareholders by exploiting Drake’s music for years and knew that the salacious allegations against Drake were false, UMG chose corporate greed over the safety and wellbeing of its artists.”

In a statement to CNN at the time, UMG denied Drake’s claims and called his allegations “illogical” and “frivolous,” and said they plan to “vigorously defend this litigation.”

“Throughout his career, Drake has intentionally and successfully used UMG to distribute his music and poetry to engage in conventionally outrageous backand-forth ‘rap battles’ to express his feelings about other artists,” the statement read. “He now seeks to weaponize the legal process to silence an artist’s creative expression and to seek damages from UMG for distributing that artist’s music.” (CNN)

POSITIONS AVAILABLE:

BARTENDERS - Serve up excellent drinks, great customer service and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

SERVERS - Experienced servers who can provide a memorable dining experience with a smile.

KITCHEN STAFF - Experienced cooks who can prepare delicious food in a fast-paced kitchen. WHAT WE OFFER:

• Competitive pay

• Flexible hours

• Friendly and fun work environment QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in the bar or restaurant industry as a Server, Bartender or Cook/Kitchen support

• A positive attitude and strong work ethic

• Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment

• Ability to work flexible hours including holidays, weekends and late evenings

649-241-0803

The original film’s creator Walt Disney was lauded for his “monumental innovation” in creating the first-ever featurelength animated film at the time of its release, with The Hollywood Reporter pronouncing at the time that Disney had “carved for himself a permanent niche in the motion picture hall of fame” – a truly premonitive observation.

The new “Snow White,” out on Friday, however, isn’t so much of a monumental innovation, at least technically speaking, given this is one of many live-action remakes that Disney Studios has released in recent years. But, with early glowing reviews for the film’s star Rachel Zegler and descriptions like “visual feast” and one of Disney’s “best live-action remakes in years” to describe this updated cinematic retelling, the film may very well wind up overcoming a rollout that has been plagued with PR issues.

“Snow White” stars Zegler

and Gal Gadot – along with those seven fictional characters Dopey, Grumpy, Bashful, Sleepy, Sneezy, Doc and Happy – have been caught in several cultural controversies along the way, making the positive first reactions to the film likely a welcome relief to the House of Mouse.

Zegler, who plays the film’s titular princess, was met with racist trolling from internet users who questioned why an actress of Colombian descent is playing a character celebrated for having “skin as white as snow” when her casting was announced.

“At one point, you just have to shut it all off and think, if I’m not going to read the bad, I’m just not going to read the good either,” she said in 2022, responding to the criticism. “I’m just going to believe in what I believe in.”

Drake

Remaking

first animated movie “Snow White and the Seven

Rachel Zegler plays Snow White in the live-action remake

President and CEO

The thirteenth annual Technology Fair was a

– FortisTCI

This year, FortisTCI brought together 100 students for its 13th annual national science and technology fair for two days of scientific exploration and competition under the theme, ‘From Ideas to Invention: Redefining What’s Possible.’

On March 5 and 6, the Gustarvus

Lightbourne Sports Complex in Providenciales was transformed into a hub of discovery during Education Week, as scores of students, educators, stakeholders, and general attendees buzzed with excitement for the national science quiz, debate, poster, and project competitions.

The national high school science debate – in its fifth year –recorded a fierce showdown, with Maranatha Academy claiming victory after placing second last year. The debate team amassed 142 points to Clement Howell High School’s 129.5 points in the grand finale. Students argued whether it is possible to meet rising energy demand without relying on fossil fuels. Holy Family Academy secured third place.

Holy Family Academy won first place in the National Science Project Competition high school category with a creative approach to tackling the ongoing sargassum issue by creating sustainable eco-bricks. Raymond Gardiner High School secured second place for its North Caicos Beach Bricks project, which focused on enhancing the product’s strength and durability. H.J. Robinson High School secured third place with a

project on the manufacturing of insect repellent.

The A. Louise Garland Thomas High School received this year’s President’s Award for its project on integrating mimetic photosynthesis in solar cell technology. FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes presented this special annual award to projects demonstrating outstanding creativity, innovative thinking, and skilful execution in

FortisTCI

Ruth Forbes presents Holy Family Academy with the first-place award and prizes for their innovative project, “Building Green: Sargassum Eco-Brick for the Future.,” in the 2025 National Science Project Competition High School segment

Minister of Innovation, Technology and Information, Hon Erwin Jay Saunders, presents the award and prizes to Maranatha Academy, for winning the 2025 National High School Science Debate, after placing second last year

Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Education, James Astwood, presents Eliza Simons Primary School with their award and prizes for securing victory in the 2025 National Primary School Quiz, marking their third win over the years since the inception of the quiz competition

A. Louise Garland Thomas High School received this year’s President’s Award for its project on integrating mimetic photosynthesis in solar cell technology

National Science and a resounding success

scientific pursuits.

Enid Capron Primary School secured first place in the primary school category for their science project investigating the effect of compost on plant growth. Holy Family Academy secured second place with their experiment on hydroponics versus traditional farming. Ianthe Pratt Primary School secured third place with a project examining how different materials affect composting

speed.

Eliza Simons Primary School rose to the top after placing second last year in the National Primary School Science Quiz. Charles Hubert James Primary School won second place, and Holy Family Academy rounded out the top three.

The National Science Poster Competition challenged students to translate the fair’s theme into a visually compelling masterpiece

through creative art and graphic design. The top-performing schools across both categories were Clement Howell High School, H.J. Robinson High School, Maranatha Academy, Providenciales Middle School, Holy Family Academy, and Majorie Basden High School.

Beyond the competitions, the event featured dynamic stakeholder booths, including electric vehicles and cutting-edge technology such

as drone showcases, virtual reality simulations, and chroma keying technology for weather broadcasts.

During her remarks at the closing awards ceremony, FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes stressed that the science fair is all about opportunity and endless possibilities. She shared an inspirational story of an eighteenyear-old Californian student and former science fair project winner,

Tremsin, who invented a

solar-powered device to detect outdoor fires, now called Torch Early Detection Fire Sensors. These sensors are helping firefighters and first responders combat wildfires in California. Forbes illustrated how science fair projects can morph into successful products, encouraging students to continue their scientific exploration, as their efforts and inventions can one day help create a better world for all.

Vasya

Hon Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, presents award and prizes to Enid Capron Primary School for winning the 2025 National Science Project Competition Primary School segment with their project on “What Effect does compost have on plant growth?”

Clement Howell High School was among the top scorers in the National Science Poster Competition, which challenged participants to translate this year’s science fair theme into a visual masterpiece

Scores of attendees explore student-powered displays and stakeholder booths at the open exhibition segment of the 2025 FortisTCI National Science and Technology Fair

The open exhibition held on Thursday, March 6, 2025, featured a range of interactive stakeholder booths and free virtual reality activities

DOMESTIC

MECHANIC HELPER

•

•

•

LABOURER

CARETAKER

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PROJECT & MAINTENANCE ENGINEER

Rubis Turks & Caicos Limited, a company specializing in the marketing of petroleum products, is seeking to fill the position of Project & Maintenance Engineer based in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands required for a shortterm project to be completed within six to eight months from commencement.

THE PORTFOLIO

The responsibilities for the position include:

• Overseeing all technical design reviews, contract administration, project document control for capital projects, project execution, validation of works for the authorization of payment for goods and services, project commissioning and post project assessment review

• Maintenance of all company assets at Rubis South Dock Facility, Rubis Airport Facilities and retail and commercial sites in the Turks & Caicos Islands

• Assistance with sub-contractor selection

• Supervision for all maintenance related works

• Responsible for leading and providing recommendations on equipment upgrade and replacement by managing assets with high repair and maintenance cost with more efficient best to industry standards

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, EIT, FE, PMP, PE

• At least 7 years’ experience in the petroleum or construction industry or industrial environment

• Working knowledge of API 650 Standards for tank design and construction

• Working knowledge of API 653 Standards for tank repairs and maintenance

• Experience in project administration

• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Smartsheets

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and a high degree of computer literacy required

• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills

• Ability to meet strict deadlines

• Results oriented, self-motivated, and business focused

• Proficient written and oral communication skills

Salary commencing at US$5,000.00 per

14, 2025, Mr. Steeve Joachim is no longer employed, nor a representative of Butterfield Motors Ltd. Mr. Joachim is not authorized to conduct business or enter into any agreement on behalf of the company.

SUNNY FOOD BLUE HILLS

Blue Hills, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Island Contact No: 1649-9462811 IS NOW HIRING:

LABOURERS

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Salary $8.00 to $11.00 /per Hour.

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

FROZEN FOOD STOCKERS

• Stock the shelves with frozen products and fill them back up when it sell

• Pick items for customers order

• Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends & holidays

• Loading and unloading Container

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20digrees

• Rate per hour $8.00 to $11.00.

PRICING CLERK

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

• 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.

• Rate per hour $9.00 to $11.00.

BUTCHER

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale.

• Cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Performing quality inspections on meat and other products

• Wages start from $8.00 to $12.00 per hour.

PRODUCE CLERK

• Responsible for doing Manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Knowledge on produce products and sanitary methods

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary $8.00 to $11.00 per hour

CLEANERS

• Perform cleaning duties at the store

• Dust, sweep, mop, stores

• Maintain cleanliness of restrooms

• Restock supplies in the cleaning area

• Dispose of waste in trash receptacles

• Adhere to safety guidelines and ensure safe usage of cleaning supplies

• Manage time effectively to complete all tasks.

• Report any necessary repairs or replacements

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

• Rate per hour $8.00 to $11.00 per hour.

S&F WHOLESALE CASH & CARRY LTD.

West Road & Backsalina, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands Contact No: 1649-9462811

Is in search of a skilled:

LABOURERS

• Responsible for doing Manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lbs. or more.

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary starts at $8.00 to $10.00 per hour.

• For Work permit renewal and first-time work permit holder

STORE CLERK

• Packing shelves and arranging displays for promotion

• Assisting in stock takes.

• Must be active and occasionally lift 50lb.

• Must work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Salary for this position is $8.00 to $ 11.00 per hour.

• For Work permit renewal and first-time work permit holder

PURCHASER

• Must have prior experience purchasing Asian & American Products.

• Must be have prior experience with Quick Books 2024.

• Must be available to work on Holiday, Nights and weekends. Both Saturday and Sunday nights are required with a day off during the middle of the week.

• Must be have good communication skills in able to commutate with overseas vendors and logistics companies .

• Ensures orders are placed in timely manner, customer request are met quick and efficiently.

• Must have extensive knowledge on NCR 7456 or similar POS system.

• Setting up training programs for employees on proper merchandising and customer service skills.

• Most work is required by standing for long periods of time and working in an environment that is not air conditioned such as a dry warehouse.

• Salary $9.00- $11 per hour.

• This position is for renewal and work permit application..

DOMESTIC WORKER

• Maintain cleanliness & tidiness of the grocery store premises, including aisles ,restroom, entrance & parking areas.

• Perform routine cleaning task such as wiping down surfaces, disinfecting high touch areas emptying trash receptacles.

• Restock and organize cleaning supplies as needed.

• Assist in maintaining inventory of store supplies, such as paper towel, toilet paper, and cleaning products.

• Committed to work flexible hours, days, nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary starts at $8.00 to $10.00 per hour.

• For Work permit renewal and first-time work permit holder

WAREHOUSE HELPER

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to work flexible hours, days , nights, weekends and holidays.

• Salary $8.00 to $10.00 per Hour.

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

THE SOURCE LTD

SENIOR PROPERTY MANAGER - LUXURY VILLAS

ABOUT US:

A leading property management firm specializing in luxury accommodations, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Property Manager to oversee our exclusive portfolio of villas in the stunning Turks and Caicos Islands. Our company is dedicated to providing unparalleled service and maintaining the highest standards in luxury property management.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

STRATEGIC PROPERTY OVERSIGHT:

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the optimal operation of luxury villas.

• Ensure properties meet and exceed the expectations of high-profile clientele.

CLIENT RELATIONS:

Build and maintain strong relationships with property owners and stakeholders. Address and resolve client concerns promptly, ensuring satisfaction.

TEAM LEADERSHIP:

• Lead a team of property management professionals, fostering a culture of excellence.

• Provide guidance and support to ensure staff deliver exceptional service.

MAINTENANCE AND QUALITY ASSURANCE:

• Implement and oversee preventive maintenance programs to preserve property condition.

• Conduct regular inspections to ensure adherence to luxury standards.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT:

• Develop and manage property budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility

• Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and implement corrective actions.

MARKETING AND PROMOTION:

• Collaborate with marketing teams to promote luxury villas effectively

• Participate in the creation of marketing materials to attract high-end clientele.

COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL AFFAIRS:

• Ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards.

• Address legal matters pertaining to property management activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Hospitality, or related field.

• Proven experience in luxury property management, preferably in a senior role.

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

• In-depth knowledge of the Turks and Caicos Islands real estate market.

• Familiarity with legal and regulatory requirements for property management.

DOMESTIC WORKER

CLEANER

SUPERVISOR

BABYSITTER

JOB TITLE:

LOGISTICS / LIAISON OFFICER

Job Reference No: GTESA-4

Grade: 7

Salary: $54,670.00

Ministry: Office of the Premier Agency: Grand Turk Enhancement and Sustainability Agency

Location: Grand Turk

JOB PURPOSE:

The Logistics / Liaison Officer will support the Grand Turk Enhancement and Sustainability Agency by managing logistics operations and serving as a liaison between various stakeholders. This role ensures the efficient and effective implementation of projects, contributing to the agency’s mission to enhance and sustain the natural and built environment of Grand Turk.

DIMENSIONS:

• Oversee logistics for multiple projects simultaneously

• Liaise with government agencies, contractors, suppliers, and community stakeholders

• Manage budget and resources efficiently

• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT:

o Coordinate and oversee the transportation, storage, and distribution of materials and equipment.

o Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, ensuring timely delivery of resources.

o Monitor inventory levels and manage procurement processes.

2. LIAISON DUTIES:

o Act as the primary contact point between the agency and external stakeholders, including government bodies, contractors, and the community.

o Facilitate communication and ensure all parties are informed of project developments and requirements.

o Address and resolve any issues or conflicts that arise with stakeholders.

3. PROJECT COORDINATION:

o Assist in planning and executing enhancement and sustainability projects.

o Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

o Prepare and present regular progress reports to senior management.

4. COMPLIANCE AND DOCUMENTATION:

o Ensure all logistics operations comply with relevant regulations and standards.

o Maintain accurate records of all logistics activities and project communications.

o Prepare documentation for regulatory approvals and audits.

5. RISK MANAGEMENT:

o Identify potential risks related to logistics and stakeholder relations.

o Develop and implement mitigation strategies to minimize project disruptions.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.

• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in logistics, supply chain management, or project coordination, preferably within the environmental or sustainability sector.

• SKILLS:

o Strong organizational and time management skills.

o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

o Proficient in logistics software and Microsoft Office Suite.

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

o Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

ASSIGNMENT AND PLANNING OF WORK:

• Work is assigned by the Programme Manager with strategic objectives outlined for each project.

• The Logistics / Liaison Officer will be responsible for planning their own tasks to meet project deadlines.

• Regular planning meetings with the Operations Manager and project teams to align on priorities and progress.

OTHER WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:

• Regular interaction with internal teams, including project managers, environmental specialists, and administrative staff.

• Frequent communication with external stakeholders such as suppliers, contractors, government agencies, and community organizations.

• Collaboration with finance and procurement departments for budget management and procurement processes.

PROBLEMS AND KEY FEATURES:

• Managing multiple projects and ensuring logistical efficiency can be challenging.

• Addressing stakeholder concerns and maintaining positive relationships require strong interpersonal skills.

• Adapting to changing project requirements and unexpected disruptions necessitates flexibility and problem-solving skills.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Primarily office-based with regular visits to project sites across Grand Turk.

• Some travel may be required to meet with stakeholders or attend relevant events and meetings.

• Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet project deadlines or address urgent issues.

La Vele Plaza, Providenciales

Is seeking to employ a

CLEANER

Cleaning

Kew

STORE CLERK

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Salary $8.00 to $12.00 / per hour.

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

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale.

• Cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Performing quality inspections on meat and other products

• Wages start from $8.00 to $12.00 per hour.

LABOURER (S) BUTCHER (S) FROZEN FOOD STOCKER

• Supervise stockers with stocking, unloading delivery trucks, and organizing stockrooms.

• Pick items for the customer’s order

• Stock the shelves with frozen products and fill them back up when it sell

• Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20 degrees

• Salary for this position is $8.00 to $10.00 per hour.

• For Work permit renewal and first-time work permit holder

GROCERY STOCK CLERK

• Stock the shelves with product and fill it back up when it sells

• Keep the store looking good throughout the day doing what’s called“facing” or “fronting”

• Provide the bulk of the customer service outside of the check stands.

• Direct people to products and offer product suggestions.

• Refill shelves and displays with goods.

• Assist with unloading delivery trucks and organizing stockrooms.

• Salary starts at $8.00 to $10.00 per hour

• This position is for renewal and for first time work permit application

DAIRY STOCKERS

• Maintaining proper shelf, case, and display conditions by stocking, cleaning,

• straightening, and rotating products.

• Keeping the backroom organized and assisting with tasks like retrieving carts and performing price checks.

• Operating equipment such as pallet jacks.

• Ability to stand, bend, twist, reach, push, and occasionally lift 50 lbs.

• Availability on work nights, weekends, and holidays.

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

• Wages start from $8.00 to $10.00 per hour.

JANITORS

• General cleaning of the building and keeping it maintained.

• Collect and dispose of trash.

• Complete tasks in a timely manner with minimal supervision.

• Keep cleaning supplies in stock.

• Ability to manage your time efficiently.

• Ability to lift at least 25 pounds.

• Able to work safely with a variety of cleaning supplies.

• Wages start at $8.00 to $9.00 per hour.

• For work permit renewal and first time work permit holder

HOUSEKEEPER

BABYSITTER

BIG BLUE COLLECTIVE

#2 MARINA STREET, LEEWARD MARINA, PROVIDENCIALE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE WATERSPORTS INDUSTRY

Big Blue Collective is looking for Turks and Caicos Islanders with outgoing personalities and suitable watersports skills to join a team of knowledgeable and experienced guides to conduct educational and environmentally conscious eco-tours, scuba diving, boat charters and kite instruction throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. The following positions are available:

1. BOAT CAPTAIN

Seeking a qualified boat captain with a minimum of 3-5 years of tourism experience, preferably on power and/or sailing catamarans. A valid captain’s license (e.g., USCG 100 Ton, RYA Powerboat or Coastal Skipper, and/or TCI Boat master certificate), a current STCW certification and First Aid/CPR certification are all required. Strong navigational skills, excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills are required as well as a passion for delivering outstanding customer service and creating memorable experiences. The ability to handle the physical demands of the job, including lifting, bending, and being on your feet for extended periods as well as working weekends and holidays is essential. Proficiency and familiarity with vessel maintenance is a plus. Knowledge of local waters, weather patterns, and points of interest is also highly desirable. For safety preference will be given to boat captains with Dive Master or Scuba Instructor certification. Current positions held by work permit holders and new positions are available. Salary range: $200 to $250+ per day plus gratuities and monthly service charge. Applicants should apply to the email address below.

2. SCUBA DIVING INSTRUCTORS & DIVE MASTERS

Seeking qualified PADI Dive Instructors and Dive Masters to conduct dive courses and tours. Applicants must have a minimum 2 years of teaching and/or guiding experience and experience with high end vessels and clientele a must. Preference will be given to Turks Islanders and those with professional boating experience or who hold a TCI Captain’s license. Other duties include conducting snorkel tours, paddle eco tours and dive equipment maintenance. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week, must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Current positions held by work permit holders and new positions available. Salary range: $110 to $200 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed monthly service charge. Applicants should

apply to the email address below.

3. ECO-TOUR GUIDES & MARINE BIOLOGISTS

Seeking enthusiastic individuals to join the Big Blue eco-tour team who have a passion for the ocean and a genuine interest in preserving the environment and marine education. Suitable candidates must be a strong swimmer and have some prior experience kayaking, standup paddleboarding and snorkeling. Additional training will be provided but applicants must be fluent in English and have the personality for high end customer service. Preference will be given to those with a degree or background in Marine Biology and Marine or Environmental Sciences as well as scuba diving qualifications and experience. The work schedule is varied and provides up to 6-days work per week. Applicant should be strong, energetic, and reliable.

Positions are currently held by belongers and work permit holders. Specifically seeking for belongers. Interested applicants should apply to the email address below. Salary range: $125$175 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed service charge.

4. KITCHEN HELPER

Looking for a suitable candidate to help prepare food for boat charters, clean coolers and clean office premises. Duties include cooking, baking, cleaning, food prep, inventory and food ordering. The work schedule varies and provides up 6- days work per week. The following are required of applicant:

• Fluent in English with good speaking and reading skills.

• Must be willing to start as early as 5am, work long days, weekends and public holidays.

• Have prior experience and certification in kitchen health and safety standards.

• Experience with cooking, baking and food display.

The position is currently held by a work permit holder. Turks Islanders are preferred. Salary ranges from $8-$12 or salary of $2000 - $3000 per month.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is

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.

LABOURER

• Responsible for doing manual work.

• Loading and Unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Should be physically fit to lift products 50lb or more

• Being able to work at heights

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Salary $8.00 to $11.00 /per Hour.

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

• Stock the shelves with frozen products and fill them back up when it sell

• Pick items for customers order

• Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during work hours

• Committed to working flexible hours, days, nights, weekends & holidays

• Loading and unloading Container

• Able to work in freezer at temp -20digrees

• Rate per hour $8.00 to $11.00.

• Packing shelves and arranging displays for promotion

• Assisting in stock sales.

• Must be active and occasionally lift 50lb.

• Must work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Salary for this position is $8.00 to $ 11.00 per hour.

• For Work permit renewal and first-time work permit holder

LABOURERS FROZEN FOOD STOCKERS/PICKER STORE CLERK BUTCHER

• Cutting, grinding and preparing meats for sale.

• Cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment.

• Weighing, packaging, pricing, and displaying products.

• Performing quality inspections on meat and other products

• Wages start from $8.00 to $12.00 per hour.

• General cleaning of the building and keeping it maintained.

• Collect and dispose of trash.

• Complete tasks in a timely manner with minimal supervision.

• Keep cleaning supplies in stock.

• Ability to manage your time efficiently.

• Ability to lift at least 25 pounds.

• Able to work safely with a variety of cleaning supplies.

• Wages start at $8.00 to $9.00per hour.

• For work permit renewal and first time work permit holder

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. CONTACT NO: 1-649-941-7939

BLACKJACK DEALERS / DICE DEALERS LABOURER

Salary $9.00-$16.00/ hour

All candidates should have at least 2-3 years of experience in the same field, excellent full knowledge of all casino table games and excellent knowledge of Blackjack table game and/or dice game. Job summary: carry out specific tasks in the gaming operation to the highest standard of efficiency and customer service in accordance with gaming policies and procedures set by the company and gaming laws.

Salary $8.00 - $9.00/ hour

Must have several years kitchen helper experience, stock refill, cleaning experience of the full casino with knowledge of covid requirements and be physically fit. Also provide routine building cleaning and maintenance including painting, sanding, lifting, and moving heavy equipment.

DELIVER RESUMES (ADDRESSED TO HR) IN-PERSON AT THE CASABLANCA CASINO LOCATED ON 226 GRACE BAY ROAD, PROVIDENCIALES OR EMAIL INFO@CASABLANCA.TC TEL: 941-3737

PRESENTLY HELD BY WORK PERMIT HOLDERS.

PROJECT MANAGER

Ensures all projects, initiatives, and processes are in conformance with the organization's established policies and objectives. Demonstrates expertise in the planning, scheduling, budgeting, costing, quality, and production control. Excellent leadership, communication, and supervisory skills, including experience working with all levels of an organization and ability to handle customer issues. Ability to collaborate with external partners to meet deadlines as required to meet project schedule. 10+ years of construction/project management experience. Competent in the use of Microsoft Project, Microsoft Office; AutoCAD drawings and other technical drawings.

PROCUMENT AND LOGISTICS MANAGER

Responsible for the procurement of materials both locally and internationally. Manages the shipping logistics of imported materials. Manages warehouse inventory levels to ensure continuous supply of required materials. Analyzes market prices and negotiates rates and terms of business with suppliers. Strong prioritization and organizational skills, and the ability to work with all levels of an organizational team. 15+ years of procurement experience. Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office. Starting Salary $60,000 per

Grace Bay Court, Suite 101 Providenciales, Is looking for a qualified, experienced applicant for the following position:

PAINTER MASON

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters. $14.00 hr

CARPENTER STEEL MAN

Follow blueprints and building plans. Install structures and fixtures. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials. $16.00 hr

STABLE CLEANER & GROOMER

• Follow a strict cleaning and feeding schedule.

• Remove waste and wet bedding from stalls.

• Bed stalls with fresh bedding as needed.

• Manage and dispose of waste properly.

• Maintain cleanliness by raking,

• Perform general and routine maintenance around the stable.

• Assist in handling horses for the vet and farrier.

• Observe and report any signs of illness, injury, or behavioral issues in horses Pay: $8 hourly

STONE FABRICATOR

The candidate will manage the warehouse, inventory, repair blenders, deliver product, invoice customers. Must have small appliance repair experience, be able to lift 50lbs, invoice using Quickbooks Online, have valid driver’s license and good customer service skills. Send resumes to accounting@olabasi. com or contact 649-232-9138.

A work permit holder currently holds this position. SHEVON WILLIAMS

Caring for my household, wash, cook and clean.

Build and install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form structures. Cut, position, and bolt down steel bars. $11.00 hr

Cleaning

The candidate will manage the warehouse, inventory, repair blenders, deliver product, invoice customers. Must have small appliance repair

• Conducting

• Developing and

•

•

•

Performing

HELPER CLEANER

TILE LAYER

4M’s CONSTRUCTION (231-6973 / 244-4812)

Leeward Palms, Providenciales

STEEL

DOMESTIC WORKER

General

DOMESTIC WORKER HELPERS (4)

Blue Hills, Providenciales

GAPER CONSTRUCTION (346-7352)

(346-0444)

(241-8181)

Venetian

JOB TITLE: PROJECT ARCHITECT

Job Reference No: GTESA - 3

Grade: 8

Salary Range: $64,985 (TCIG Grade 8 Equivalent)

Reports To: Managing Director and Programme Manager

Agency: Grand Turk Enhancement and Sustainability Agency (GTESA)

Ministry: Office of the Premier and Public Policy

JOB PURPOSE

The Project Architect is responsible for the design of GTESA architectural works on the island of Grand Turk, and is required to oversee and monitor their construction, and to conduct regular inspections to ensure quality assurance and quality controls procedures are maintained.

DIMENSIONS

The successful delivery of projects is an important contributor to our continuous improvement. The post-holder will be part of a Team that delivers infrastructure and aesthetic improvements to the island of Grand Turk.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Design – Prepare architectural designs for GTESA works and projects or oversee designs undertaken through outsourcing.

2. Estimates – Authenticate the estimates presented for GTESA works and projects.

3. Tender Documents –Prepare and evaluate tender documents for various GTESA projects.

4. Oversee the entire project process from inception to completion to ensure quality control, adherence to budget, and deadlines.

5. Liaise and coordinate activities with contractors, suppliers and consultants providing services to GTESA.

6. Assist in carrying out land surveying.

7. Source and procure materials and specialised equipment for the various GTESA contracts.

8. Prepare reports for the Programme Manager.

9. Implement and maintain quality control procedures and standards.

10. Adhere to all rules and regulations governing the GTESA 11. Perform other related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

QUALIFICATIONS:

A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture/related field or equivalent

EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the architectural and construction field – i.e. architectural design projects, site management, quality control, tendering process, good command of the use of AutoCAD, and other Computer Aided Design programs.

• Good knowledge of architectural design and construction technology.

• High level of written and oral communication skills.

• Experience in project management and development.

• Knowledge of other computer software such as Microsoft

Word, Excel, project management is required.

• Ability and commitment to work as a team and to achieve deadlines.

• Knowledge of sustainable, green building and technologies and practices would be an asset.

ASSIGNMENT AND PLANNING OF WORK

The post-holder receives strategic direction from the Managing Director and Programme Manager. He/she is expected to collaborate with other team members and to draw on his/ her experience, research and initiative to deliver on the core responsibilities of the role.

On a day to day basis, he/she will be expected to work independently with very little supervision and to prioritize his/ her own work to meet tight and often competing deadlines. All deadlines, demands and expectations must be met in a timely manner.

SUPERVISION OF OTHERS

The post-holder will interface with the internal project teams and third party supplier delivery teams. He/she will monitor, support and report on the performance of project teams, as well as external advisers and consultants from a variety of fields and areas of expertise.

OTHER WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

The post-holder must work effectively with members of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development (PIPD) and staff as well as having direct and regular interface with functionaries throughout Government and the Private Sector whilst carrying out the duties of this post.

DECISION MAKING AUTHORITY AND CONTROLS

The post holder works within the parameters established by GTESA and all governing laws, policies and procedures.

The post holder will take decisions on matters within the ambit of the principal accountabilities of the post.

The post holder operates under the direction of the Managing Director and Programme Manager is required to keep him/her apprised of key developments, risks or issues.

PROBLEMS/KEY FEATURES

Must achieve a high level of knowledge of many different aspects of how the Government operates because GTESA is an arms-length body; and needs the ability to quickly assess and analyse business needs encompassing many disciplines and professional backgrounds.

There is also the need be respected as a leader and to maintain high levels of professional knowledge and experience of fast changing technology and techniques.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Normal office working environment. However abnormal hours are worked in order to meet tight deadlines, and to implement system changes which must be done outside normal working hour.

Required to provide user/stakeholder support outside normal working hours.

BABYSITTER

CARETAKER

STORE CLERK

• Customer service training/ experience a must

• Knowledge and experience in sales preferred

• Receive, price and display stock

• Able to lift 40lbs + QUALIFICATIONS

• Qualifications in Marketing, Tourism or Business will be an asset

• Must have excellent communication skills in English other languages an asset

• Must be proficient in computer systems including Point of Sale software

• Must be able to work weekends, public holidays Salary - $8.50 an hour

An Application, REGISTERED PR 18214 by SEA COTTON HOLDINGS LTD. for DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION for THE CONSTRUCTION OF A WAREHOUSE BUILDING CONTAINING STORAGE SPACE, OFFICE SPACE, WAREHOUSE AND GARAGE has been submitted to the Department of Planning on Block & Parcel 60806/25 which comprises of 1.40 acres of land located in The Bight, Providenciales.

The proposed development is inconsistent with a plan which has been approved.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or 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 in person or 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 or in person, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board. REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION) REGULATIONS, 2021

Science & Technology

Being sleepier during the day may double your dementia risk

A new study found that women in their 80s who experience increasing daytime sleepiness over five years have double the risk of developing dementia.

While the study doesn’t prove that excessive sleep causes dementia, it highlights a strong connection between sleep changes and cognitive decline.

INCREASING DAYTIME SLEEPINESS LINKED

TO DEMENTIA

RISK

Women in their 80s who become increasingly sleepy during the day over a five-year period may face twice the risk of developing dementia, according to a study published today (March 19, 2025) in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. However, the study does not confirm that daytime sleepiness causes dementia, only that the two are linked.

“Sleep is essential for cognitive health, as it allows the brain to rest and rejuvenate, enhancing our ability to think clearly and remember information,” said study author Yue Leng, PhD, of the University of California, San Francisco. “However, little is known about how changes in sleep and cognition are connected over time and how these changes relate to dementia risk in the later decades of life. Our study found that sleep problems may be intertwined with

cognitive aging and may serve as an early marker or risk factor for dementia in women in their 80s.”

TRACKING

SLEEP PATTERNS IN AGING WOMEN

The study followed 733 women with an average age of 83, all of whom had no signs of mild cognitive impairment or dementia at the start. Over five years, researchers tracked their cognitive health and found that 164 participants (22%) developed mild cognitive impairment, while

93 (13%) were diagnosed with dementia.

Participants wore wrist devices to track their sleep and circadian rhythm patterns for three days at the start and end of the study. Researchers looked at the changes in nighttime sleep duration and quality, daytime napping, and circadian rhythm patterns.

HOW SLEEP CHANGES OVER FIVE YEARS

After five years, researchers observed large changes in sleep patterns in more than half of the

participants, or 56%. Researchers found that participants fell into three groups: stable sleep or small improvements in sleep, 44%; declining nighttime sleep, 35%; and increasing sleepiness, 21%. Declining nighttime sleep included decreases in nighttime sleep quality and duration, moderate increases in napping, and worsening circadian rhythms. Increasing sleepiness included increases in both daytime and nighttime sleep duration and quality, along with worsening circadian rhythms. Researchers then looked at how

these changes were linked to the risk of developing dementia.

THE LINK BETWEEN SLEEP AND DEMENTIA RISK

Of those in the stable sleep group, 25, or 8%, developed dementia. In the declining nighttime sleep group, 39, or 15%, developed dementia. In the increasing sleepiness group, 29, or 19%, developed dementia.

After adjusting for age, education race, and health factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure, researchers found that participants in the increasing sleepiness group had double the risk of dementia compared to those in the stable sleep group. No association was found in the declining nighttime sleep group.

“We observed that sleeping, napping and circadian rhythms can change dramatically over only five years for women in their 80s,” Leng said. “This highlights the need for future studies to look at all aspects of daily sleep patterns to better understand how changes in these patterns over time can be linked to dementia risk.”

LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

A limitation of the study was that it included primarily white people, so the results cannot be generalised to more diverse populations. (ScienceTechDaily)

Breakthrough study confirms blood pressure control reduces dementia risk

A groundbreaking study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine reveals that just 3½ years of intensive blood pressure control can provide lasting protection against cognitive decline.

Even years after stopping treatment, participants who aggressively managed their blood pressure showed a significantly lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Sustained cognitive benefits from intensive blood pressure control

A study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine reveals that just 3½ years of intensive blood pressure management can significantly lower the risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia, even years after stopping treatment. The findings emphasize the long-term brain benefits of aggressive blood pressure control in adults with hypertension and high cardiovascular risk.

Published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American

(SPRINT) Memory and Cognition in Decreased Hypertension

(SPRINT MIND), a large, NIHsupported study involving 9,361 adults aged 50 and older across

more than 100 U.S. and Puerto Rican clinical sites. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatment goals: a systolic blood pressure target of less than 120 mm Hg (intensive treatment) or less than 140 mm Hg (standard treatment).

Participants were monitored for a median of seven years, with cognitive assessments conducted in-person and by phone. Based on these evaluations, they were classified as having no cognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment, or probable dementia.

LOWER RISK OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT WITH AGGRESSIVE TREATMENT

“We found that the intensive treatment group had a sustained lower incidence of developing cognitive impairment compared to those in the standard treatment group,” said David M. Reboussin,

Increasing daytime sleepiness in older women may signal a heightened risk of dementia

Science & Technology

New brain discovery could revolutionise hearing loss treatment

Researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC, in partnership with Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, utilized a cutting-edge imaging tool to study the mouse inner ear, leading to a discovery that may aid in the treatment of hearing disorders.

A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience suggests that the brain may help regulate the ear’s sensitivity to sound and compensate for hearing loss by sending signals to the cochlea, a structure in the inner ear. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for challenging hearing disorders such as hyperacusis, where everyday sounds become uncomfortably loud, and tinnitus, a condition characterized by ringing, buzzing, or other phantom sounds in the absence of an external source.

The study was made possible by a groundbreaking imaging tool that enabled researchers to capture real-time images of the cochlea in awake animals for the first time.

The cochlea uses sensory hair cells to detect sound waves in the air, then converts them into electrical signals that the brain can process. Most cochlear nerves carry information from the cochlea to the brain, but about 5% send signals in the opposite direction: from the brain to the cochlea. The exact role of those fibers has been a mystery, because researchers have struggled to measure cochlear activity in humans or animals while they are awake.

To change that, researchers from the Keck School of Medicine

A new study suggests that the brain helps regulate the ear’s sensitivity to sound by sending signals to the cochlea, potentially leading to treatments for conditions like tinnitus and hyperacusis

of USC, in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, have developed a new way to look at activity in the inner ear by adapting an imaging technique called optical coherence tomography (OCT), which is widely used in ophthalmology offices to scan the retina for conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. OCT uses light waves to scan tissue and create a 3D image, similar to the way ultrasound creates images

from sound waves. Using this approach, the researchers captured real-time images of the cochlea in action.

“OCT lets us look down the ear canal, through the eardrum and bone into the cochlea, and measure how it’s working— noninvasively and without pain,” said John Oghalai, MD, professor and chair of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery and the Leon J. Tiber and David S. Alpert Chair in Medicine at the Keck School of

Medicine. “What’s exciting about this is it lets us study how the brain is controlling the cochlea in real time.”

Using this tool, Oghalai and his team, including co-leaders Patricia Quiñones, research associate in Oghalai’s Lab, Brian E. Applegate, professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at the Keck School of Medicine, and Matthew J. McGinley, assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, found that in healthy mice, cochlear activity does not change over the short term. But in mice with genetic hearing loss, cochlear function increased, indicating that the brain was enhancing the cochlea’s sensitivity as a response to long-term hearing loss.

MEASURING COCHLEAR FUNCTION

A leading theory about the nerves that send signals from the brain to the cochlea (known as “efferent” fibers) is that they control the cochlea’s response to sound on a short-term basis, similar to the way our pupils work. Bright light makes the pupils constrict, while stress causes them to dilate. Could the cochlea be acting in a similar way?

To explore whether the cochlea responds to short-term stimuli, the researchers measured cochlear activity in mice using OCT. At the same time, they tracked the shifting brain states of the mice by measuring changes in pupil size. As brain states changed, cochlear activity stayed the same, suggesting that the inner ear does

not modulate hearing on a shortterm basis.

Next, the researchers genetically altered mice to disable the nerves carrying information from the inner ear to the brain (“afferent” fibers), causing hearing loss. Using OCT, they found that the cochlea was working overtime to compensate.

“As humans age and our hair cells die off, we start to lose our hearing. These findings suggest that the brain can send signals to the remaining hair cells, essentially telling them to turn up the volume,” said Oghalai, who is also a professor of biomedical engineering at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering.

The next step is a clinical trial to test drugs that block efferent fibers, which could lower the volume for patients with hyperacusis and may also help address tinnitus.

IMPROVING DIAGNOSIS

OCT also holds promise for improving the diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders. Now that Oghalai’s team has adapted OCT for cochlear imaging in awake mice, they are testing a version of the tool for patients in a new NIH-funded study.

The technology could ultimately allow providers to diagnose hearing problems based on physiology, not just performance on a hearing exam, and to tailor treatments to individual needs.

“This is the first step toward a tool that lets us look into a patient’s ear, find out what the problem is and treat it,” Oghalai said. (ScienceTechDaily)

Colorectal cancer cases rise among younger adults, UW research shows

Colorectal cancer cases are increasingly affecting adults under 50, with the disease on track to become the leading cause of cancer deaths for this age group by 2030.

Dr Rachel Issaka, a UW Medicine digestive system specialist and associate professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine, highlighted the concerning trend.

“Over the past three decades, colorectal cancer cases have doubled in people under age 50,” said Issaka, who also directs the Fred Hutch/UW Medicine Population Health Colorectal Cancer Screening Program. While a full explanation for the increased incidence remains elusive, Issaka noted that a Westernized diet appears to be an influential factor.

In people younger than 50 years of age, colorectal cancer rates have

increased by 2.4 percent per year from 2012 to 2021.

“Colon cancer can happen to anyone at any age,” said Dr. David Parsons, a colon and rectal surgeon with Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “There can be no symptoms with colorectal cancer, so it’s not advisable to wait until symptoms like changes in stool, abdominal pain, or bleeding present themselves. Early detection is important. Colon cancer is preventable and treatable with proper screenings.”

Colorectal cancer symptoms often do not appear until the disease is advanced, making it more challenging to treat. A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is highlighted as an effective and convenient screening option that can be conducted at home, aiding in early detection when the cancer

In response to the rising cases, Fred Hutch Cancer Center will host a colorectal cancer screening day on Friday, March 21.

purpose.

While the exact cause of the rise in young adults is unknown, factors such as obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and diets high in red meats and processed meats have been associated with the disease.

Processed meats include bacon, sausage, lunch/deli meats and hot dogs. Red meat is defined as beef, pork and lamb.

Research from Fred Hutch Cancer Center genetic and molecular epidemiologist, Dr. Rikki Peters, showed that although eating red meat can increase the risk for colorectal cancer by 30%, and processed meat by 40%, she said she knows that genetic background may play a role, as “we know that not everyone who eats bacon almost every day will develop colorectal cancer.” (ScienceTechDaily) is more treatable.

Dr. David Hockenbery, a UW

Medicine gastroenterologist and Fred Hutch Cancer Center researcher, explained that multiple first-time colonoscopies will be conducted simultaneously in three procedure suites dedicated to this

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month

Science & Technology

NASA astronauts ‘Butch and Suni’ return to Earth after drawn-out mission in space

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams returned to Earth in a SpaceX capsule on Tuesday with a soft splashdown off Florida’s coast, nine months after their faulty Boeing (BA.N), opens new tab Starliner craft upended what was to be a week-long stay on the International Space Station. Their return caps a protracted space mission that was fraught with uncertainty and technical troubles, turning a rare instance of NASA’s contingency planning - and the latest failures of Starliner - into a global and political spectacle.

Wilmore and Williams, two veteran NASA astronauts and retired US Navy test pilots, had launched into space as Starliner’s first crew in June for what was expected to be an eight-day test mission. But issues with Starliner’s propulsion system led to cascading delays to their return home, culminating in a NASA decision to fold them into its crew rotation schedule and return them on a SpaceX craft this year.

On Tuesday morning, Wilmore and Williams strapped inside their Crew Dragon spacecraft along with two other astronauts and undocked from the ISS at 1.05 a.m. ET (0505 GMT) to embark on a 17-hour trip to Earth.

The four-person crew, formally part of NASA’s Crew-9 astronaut rotation mission, plunged through Earth’s atmosphere, using its heatshield and two sets of parachutes to slow its orbital speed of 17,000 mph (27,359 kph) to a soft 17 mph at splashdown, which occurred at 5:57 p.m. ET some 50 miles off Florida’s Gulf Coast under clear skies.

“What a ride,” NASA astronaut Nick Hague, the Crew-9 mission

commander inside the Dragon capsule, told mission control moments after splashing down. “I see a capsule full of grins, ear to ear.”

The astronauts will be flown on a NASA plane to their crew quarters at the space agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston for a few days of routine health checks before NASA flight surgeons say they can go home to their families.

“They will get some welldeserved time off, well-deserved time with their families,” NASA’s Commercial Crew Program chief Steve Stich told reporters after the splashdown. “It’s been a long time for them.”

The mission captured the attention of U.S. President Donald Trump, who upon taking office in January called for a quicker return of Wilmore and Williams and alleged, without evidence, that former President Joe Biden

“abandoned” them on the ISS for political reasons.

NASA acted on Trump’s demand by moving Crew-9’s replacement mission up sooner, the agency’s ISS chief Joel Montalbano said Tuesday. The agency had swapped a delayed SpaceX capsule for one that would be ready sooner and sped through its methodical safety review process to heed the president’s call.

Trump told Fox News on Tuesday that Wilmore and Williams will visit the Oval Office after they recover from their mission.

Wilmore earlier this month told reporters on a call from the ISS that he did not believe NASA’s decision to keep them on the ISS until Crew-10’s arrival had been affected by politics under the Biden administration.

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, a close adviser to Trump, had echoed Trump’s call for an earlier return,

adding the Biden administration spurned a SpaceX offer to provide a dedicated Dragon rescue mission last year.

NASA officials have said the two astronauts had to remain on the ISS to maintain adequate staffing levels and it did not have the budget or the operational need to send a dedicated rescue spacecraft. Crew Dragon flights cost between $100 million to $150 million.

Crew Dragon is the only U.S. spacecraft capable of flying people in orbit. Boeing had hoped Starliner would compete with the SpaceX capsule before the mission with Wilmore and Williams threw its development future into uncertainty.

Stich said on Tuesday that Starliner might need to fly another uncrewed flight - which would be its third such mission and fourth test overall - before it routinely carries U.S. astronauts.

Boeing, which congratulated the astronauts’ return on X, did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

286 DAYS IN SPACE

The ISS, about 254 miles in altitude, is a football field-sized research lab that has been housed continuously by international crews of astronauts for nearly 25 years, a key platform of science diplomacy managed primarily by the U.S. and Russia.

Swept up in NASA’s routine astronaut rotation schedule, Wilmore and Williams worked on roughly 150 science experiments aboard the station until their replacement crew launched last week.

The pair logged 286 days in space on the mission - longer than the average six-month ISS mission length, but far short of U.S. record holder Frank Rubio, whose 371 days in space ending in 2023 were the unexpected result of a coolant leak on a Russian spacecraft. Living in space for months can affect the human body in multiple ways, from muscle atrophy to possible vision impairment.

Williams, capping her third spaceflight, has tallied 608 cumulative days in space, the second most for any U.S. astronaut after Peggy Whitson’s 675 days. Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko set the world record last year at 878 cumulative days.

“We came prepared to stay long, even though we planned to stay short,” Wilmore told reporters from space earlier this month.

“That’s what your nation’s human spaceflight program’s all about,” he said. “Planning for unknown, unexpected contingencies. And we did that.” (BBC)

Breakthrough study confirms blood pressure control reduces ...

CONTINUED FROM  52

Ph.D., professor of biostatistics and data science at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the study’s corresponding author.

The findings showed that intensive treatment reduced both the likelihood of mild cognitive impairment and the combined risk of mild cognitive impairment or probable dementia.

BUILDING ON EARLIER

FINDINGS OF THE SPRINT

TRIAL

In 2015, published findings from the landmark SPRINT trial showed that intensive blood pressure management reduced cardiovascular disease and lowered the risk of death by 3040% in persons with hypertension. SPRINT was stopped early due to the success of the trial in reducing cardiovascular disease. As a result, participants were on intensive blood pressure lowering treatment for a shorter period than originally planned. The authors

at that time concluded that the shorter time made it difficult to accurately determine the role of intensive blood pressure control in dementia cases.

EXTENDING THE COGNITIVE PROTECTION BEYOND FIVE YEARS

Five years later, in 2019, initial results of SPRINT MIND, led by Wake Forest University School of Medicine, showed that there was a significantly reduced risk of developing mild cognitive

impairment for up to five years following the initial 3.3 years of intensive blood pressure control.

These latest SPRINT MIND findings showed the same previously observed significant reduction in cognitive impairment rates, but over a longer period— at least seven years.

A PATH FORWARD FOR BRAIN HEALTH AND HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT

“Our study shows that intensive

blood pressure control is an important strategy in the prevention of cognitive impairment, a major cause of loss of independence in older adults,” said Jeff Williamson, M.D., M.H.S, professor of gerontology and geriatric medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. “Lowering your blood pressure to more aggressive targets can improve the quality of life and extend active life for individuals with hypertension.” (ScienceTechDaily)

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams

Sports International

Coventry elected as IOC’s first female president

Zimbabwe’s sports minister Kirsty Coventry has been elected as the new president of the International Olympic Committee, becoming the first woman and first African to hold the role.

The 41-year-old former swimmer, who won two Olympic gold medals, will replace Thomas Bach - who has led the IOC since 2013 - and be the youngest president in the organisation’s 130year history.

World Athletics boss Lord Coe was among the favourites to win Thursday’s election in Greece, but Coventry secured a majority of 49 of the 97 available votes in the first round.

Runner-up Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr won 28 votes while Coe secured eight.

France’s David Lappartient and

Japan’s Morinari Watanabe earned four votes each, while Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan and Sweden’s Johan Eliasch both took two. Coventry, who already sits

The Boston Celtics, one of the most successful NBA teams in history, has sold for $6.1 billion, marking the largest sale of a sports franchise in North America.

An investor group led by William Chisholm, a billionaire who amassed much of his wealth from private equity, is buying the Celtics. The group also includes includes Rob Hale, a current Celtics investor, and Bruce Beal Jr., president of real estate giant Related Companies.

“Bill is a terrific person and a true Celtics fan, born and raised here in the Boston area,” Celtics CEO Wyc Grousbeck said in a statement Thursday. “His love for the team and the city of Boston, along with his chemistry with the rest of the Celtics leadership, make him a natural choice to be the next Governor and controlling owner of the team.”

The Grousbeck family bought the Celtics, who have won 18

championships in their history, in 2002 for $360 million, representing a nearly 1,600% gain in value. Wyc will remain the team’s governor through the 2027-28 season.

Chisholm co-founded and is the managing partner of Symphony Technology Group, a Californiabased private equity firm that invests in tech.

“Growing up on the North Shore and attending college in New England, I have been a diehard Celtics fan my entire life,” Chisholm said in a release. “I understand how important the Celtics are to the city of Boston – the role the team plays in the community is different than any other city in the country.”

The Celtics deal is the largest in the NBA and is a US major league sports record, bypassing the $6.05 billion deal for NFL team Washington Commanders in 2023 and the $4 billion purchase of NBA team Phoenix Suns in 2023. (CNN)

an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.”

Coventry described her election as an “extraordinary moment” during her acceptance speech, and promised to make IOC members proud of their choice.

During her election campaign Coventry pledged to modernise, promote sustainability, embrace technology and empower athletes.

She placed particular emphasis on protecting female sport, backing a blanket ban of transgender women from competing in female Olympic sport.

on the IOC executive board and was said to be Bach’s preferred candidate, is the 10th person to hold the highest office in sport and will be in post for at least the next eight years.

Coventry has won seven of Zimbabwe’s eight Olympic medals - including gold in the 200m backstroke at both the 2004 and 2008 Games.

“The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamed of this moment,” said Coventry.

“I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC president, and also the first from Africa.

“I hope that this vote will be

Coventry has faced criticism in Zimbabwe in her capacity as sports minister since 2018, but defended her association with the government of controversial president Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Governmental interference in football resulted in Fifa banning Zimbabwe from the international game in 2022, while last year the United States imposed sanctions on Mnangagwa and other senior officials for corruption and human rights abuses.

The presidential vote took place at a luxury hotel in a seaside resort about 60 miles south of Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Games.

IOC members had to hand

in their phones before a secret electronic ballot at about 14:30 GMT.

The campaign process restricted candidates to 15-minute presentations at a private event in January, with media barred and no scope for questions from members afterwards.

Endorsements by members were not allowed, nor was any criticism of rival candidates, meaning behind-the-scenes lobbying played an important role.

British Olympic Association CEO Andy Anson congratulated Coventry, saying: “We know her well and look forward to working together to grow the Olympic Movement’s global relevance and commercial success.”

Russia hopes Coventry’s victory will lead to its return from sporting exile. Russian athletes have not competed at the Olympics under their own flag since 2016, following the state-run doping scandal and then the war in Ukraine.

“We look forward to a stronger, more independent, and more prosperous Olympic movement under a new leader, and to Russia returning to the Olympic podium,” Russian sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev, who is also head of the Russian Olympic Committee, wrote on his Telegram account. (BBC)

New Zealand 15-year-old becomes youngest person to run a four-minute mile

New Zealand athlete Sam Ruthe made history on Wednesday as he became the youngest person to run a sub-four-minute mile.

Ruthe, who turns 16 in midApril, ran a time of 3:58.35 at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.

According to New Zealand Athletics, Norway’s twotime Olympic medalist Jakob Ingebrigtsen was the previous youngest athlete to break the fourminute barrier when he ran 3:58.07 as a 16-year-old.

Ruthe was paced by two-time Olympian Sam Tanner around four laps of the rain-soaked track in Auckland, eventually crossing the line just behind the five-time New Zealand champion.

“This was probably my favorite goal that I’ve reached. I’ve definitely enjoyed this one the most, with all the people here supporting me,” Ruthe said after the race, per Reuters. “This has been the most set up for me, so I’m really happy to have gotten this one.”

Ruthe warms up ahead of his four-minute-mile attempt

Earlier this month, Ruthe became the youngest-ever senior national champion at the New Zealand Track and Field Championships with his victory in the 3,000 meters, clocking 7:56.18.

Wednesday’s performance took more than three seconds off his previous best mile time of 4.01.72,

which he set at the Cooks Classic in January, as well as improving on Tanner’s New Zealand under-20 and under-19 record of 3:58.41.

A sub-four-minute mile has long been considered one of the great barriers in athletics, a feat first achieved by Great Britain’s Roger Bannister in 1954.

Boston Celtics have won 18 championships in their history

Boston Celtics sold for a record-breaking $6 billion

Kirsty Coventry is the first female president in the IOC’s 130-year history

Eddie

Boxing wins vote to be in 2028 Los Angeles Olympics

Boxing will remain an Olympic sport after the International Olympic Committee unanimously voted for it to be included in the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

The sport was not part of the programme for the next Olympics when the schedule was first announced in 2022.

But the IOC granted provisional recognition for World Boxing as the sport’s global body last month before voting for its inclusion at the ongoing session in Greece.

“I thank you for the approval of having boxing back. We can look forward to a great boxing tournament,” outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach said.

Boxing has featured at every Olympics since 1904, except 1912, but the IOC has run the sport

at the past two Games after the International Boxing Association (IBA) was suspended in 2019 over governance, finance, refereeing and ethical issues.

The Russian-led IBA was then stripped of its status in June 2023 over a failure to implement reforms.

The IOC and the IBA clashed during last year’s Olympics in Paris over the participation of two boxers, Algeria’s Imane Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

The IBA banned the fighters during the 2023 World Championships saying they had failed gender eligibility tests, but the IOC allowed them to compete and both won gold medals in their weight classes.

World Boxing was formed in April 2023 and now has 84

members across five continents, including Great Britain.

“This is a great day for boxers, boxing and everyone connected with our sport at every level across the world,” said World Boxing president Boris van der Vorst.

“World Boxing understands that being part of the Olympic Games is a privilege and not a right and we are determined to be a trustworthy and reliable partner that will adhere to and uphold the values of the Olympic Movement.”

The IOC has said only athletes whose national federations are members of World Boxing by the time of the start of the qualification events for the 2028 Olympics can take part in Los Angeles.

The dates for the qualifying period are yet to be confirmed.

Stanford to captain United States at 2026 Solheim Cup

Former major champion Angela Stanford will captain the United States at the 2026 Solheim Cup in the Netherlands.

The 47-year-old has served as an assistant captain in the biennial women’s team event against Europe on three occasions - most recently in 2024 under Stacy Lewis - and made six appearances as a player between 2003-2015.

Stanford featured in the last American team to win the Solheim Cup away from home, in Germany 10 years ago, where she earned the winning point with a 2&1 victory over Suzann Pettersen.

The US lifted their first Solheim Cup since 2017 at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club last September and will travel to Bernardus Golf from 11-13 September 2026 to face the Anna Nordqvist-led European team.

“I’m extremely grateful to be named the next American captain

Angela Stanford was previously

for the Solheim Cup and join a list of my heroes in the game,” said Stanford.

“I’ve always believed that I represent more than myself on the LPGA Tour, and there is no greater honour than representing your country.

“I consider this the pinnacle of my career and I’m looking forward to leading our players to the Netherlands.”

Stanford, who won seven times on the LPGA Tour, retired from playing in 2024 after 24 years as a professional.

Jordan, former F1 team owner who gave Schumacher his debut, dies aged 76

Eddie Jordan, the legendary motorsport team owner who gave seven-time world drivers’ champion Michael Schumacher his Formula One debut, has died aged 76, his family announced on Thursday.

A statement from his family said that Jordan had been battling an “aggressive form of prostate cancer” for the last year and that he “passed away peacefully” with his family by his side in Cape Town, South Africa, on Thursday.

“EJ brought an abundance of charisma, energy and Irish charm everywhere he went,” the statement said. “We all have a huge hole missing without his presence. He will be missed by so many people, but he leaves us with tonnes of great memories to keep us smiling through our sorrow.”

Born in Dublin, Ireland, Jordan became entangled with motorsport from an early age.

He began at the wheel – first in the Irish karting scene before rising through the ranks of Formula 3 and Formula 2 – before turning his attention to setting up his own racing team after a series of injuries.

In 1980, Jordan founded a team – named after himself – and it quickly became renowned for its propensity to give promising young drivers an opportunity; Jordan’s team gave F1 legend Ayrton Senna his first ever Formula 3 drive in 1982.

Jordan grew in stature until, in 1991, it booked its spot on the Formula One grid.

In his team’s debut campaign, he gave Schumacher his first appearance in F1, providing the German driver the springboard to go on to become one of the greatest drivers the sport has ever seen.

Other big names also suited up for his team, including Rubens Barrichello, Martin Brundle,

Damon Hill and Jean Alesi.

Jordan’s team got its first Grand Prix victory in 1998 at the Belgian Grand Prix thanks to Hill, with the British world champion’s teammate, Ralf Schumacher, making it a 1-2 finish for the outfit.

His team’s most successful campaign came in 1999 with an inspired Heinz-Harald Frentzen leading an unlikely title charge, only to eventually fall short to Mika Häkkinen. In total, Jordan’s team had four Grand Prix victories.

Jordan would eventually sell his team in 2005 but, in later years, he became a pundit for British TV’s coverage of F1 and remained a mainstay in the sport.

He became loved by much of the F1 community for his “irrepressible optimism and energetic joie de vivre,” as his website describes it.

“We are deeply saddened to hear about the sudden loss of Eddie Jordan,” F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said in a statement. “With his inexhaustible energy, he always knew how to make people smile, remaining genuine and brilliant at all times.

“Eddie has been a protagonist of an era of F1 and he will be deeply missed. In this moment of sorrow, my thoughts and those of the entire Formula 1 family are with his family and loved ones.”

Jordan also worked as the manager of F1 designer Adrian Newey – helping to negotiate legendary engineer’s surprise move from Red Bull to Aston Martin earlier this year – and also spearheaded a consortium to buy English rugby team London Irish. His family said that he had been “working until the last, having communicated on St Patrick’s Day, about his ambitions for London Irish Rugby Football Club, of which he had recently become Patron.” (CNN)

Jordan has died aged 76, his family announced

New governing body World Boxing has taken over the organisation of the sport in the Olympics, with the International Boxing Association having been suspended in 2019

an assistant captain to Pat Hurst and Stacy Lewis

Sports National

Don’t fear football regulator, league chief tells rich clubs

Claims an independent football regulator could stifle the growth of the Premier League and foreign investment in it are “complete nonsense”, English Football League (EFL) chairman Rick Parry has told the BBC.

Under a change to a government bill going through Parliament, the proposed regulator will have a duty to avoid having a negative impact on the financial growth of the English game.

But a government source has played down reports No 10 is considering scaling back the regulator’s powers as part of a wider move to cut bureaucracy.

Mr Parry said the changes being put forward would benefit the whole of the men’s professional game, but well-off clubs had “nothing to fear” from them.

The Football Governance Bill is due to complete its House of Lords stages next week, after which it will be sent to the Commons for MPs to consider.

It would establish a regulator which is independent from government and the sport’s authorities to oversee the men’s game in England’s top five divisions.

The regulator would set out mandatory conditions for clubs to meet, relating to corporate governance and financial reporting.

Clubs would also be required to provide “effective engagement” with fans on changes to ticket prices and any proposals to relocate home grounds.

Under “backstop powers”, the regulator could intervene between the Premier League and the EFL if they fail to agree a deal to redistribute money to EFL clubs, many of which are cash-strapped.

Previous rounds of talks have collapsed.

The Premier League has repeatedly argued that English football is capable of regulating itself, and said it is critical that any external regulation is “proportionate”.

It has warned of “unintended consequences of legislation that could weaken the competitiveness and appeal of English football”.

‘LIGHT TOUCH’

Bloomberg UK has reported that, following lobbying from Premier League owners, No 10 is looking again at some of the bill’s measures, to ensure foreign investors are not discouraged from buying English clubs.

Both Sir Keir Starmer and

Chancellor Rachel Reeves have put economic growth and investment at the centre of their programme for government.

Last week, the prime minister announced that NHS England would be abolished and brought under “democratic control” to cut bureaucracy.

He said for too long politicians had “chosen to hide behind vast arrays of quangos” - organisations funded by taxpayers but not directly controlled by the government.

However, the source at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, which is piloting the bill through Parliament, indicated to the BBC it was aligned with Downing Street on the need for a “light touch” football regulator.

Mr Parry told the BBC different

Japan first nation to qualify for 2026 World Cup

Japan have become the first nation to book their place in the 2026 World Cup through qualifiers by beating Bahrain 2-0 in Saitama.

Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada and Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half as the Japanese progressed with three games to spare in the third round of the qualification campaign in Asia.

Canada, Mexico and the United States were already guaranteed a place in next year’s expanded World Cup as the hosts but the Samurai Blue are the first to do so via the qualifiers.

The Asian Football Confederation is guaranteed eight

spots in the 48-team tournament with an additional place available through inter-continental play-offs.

Qualifying sees 18 teams split into three groups in the third round with the top two from each group qualifying for the World Cup.

The sides that finish third and fourth in each group advance to the fourth round to battle for the remaining spots available for the continent.

Japan, managed by Hajime Moriyasu, had reached the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, only to lose to Croatia on penalties.

They posted six wins from six

matches in the second round of the 2026 qualifiers and are also unbeaten in the third round with six wins and a draw.

Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo, Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino, who won the Premier League with the Reds in 2020, were among the starters for Japan, who reached their eighth consecutive World Cup.

Second-placed Australia, who beat Indonesia 5-1, are nine points adrift of Japan.

European qualification begins this week, with England and Wales among the teams in action. (BBC)

‘UNBRIDGEABLE CHASM’

There was “not a shred of evidence” for Premier League clubs’ arguments that their financial competitiveness could be undermined by the proposed regulator, he added.

“No one wants to kill the golden goose or impose unnecessary bureaucracy”, but the Premier League had to “discharge its responsibilities”, he argued.

Mr Parry pointed to a “growing gulf” between the Premier League and the EFL, saying an £11m gap in finances had soared to £3.3bn since the inception of the top tier in 1992.

An increasingly “unbridgeable chasm” was highlighted by the fact that all three clubs promoted from the Championship in 2023 had been immediately relegated the following season - and that was looking likely to happen again this season - he said.

parts of government often had different views.

But he said he was encouraged by the way ministers had successfully resisted attempts by Conservative peers to weaken the legislation in the Lords last week, with “an impressive whipping operation”.

The impetus for an independent regulator has been years in the making, with several lower division clubs subjected to financial mismanagement and. in some cases like Bury and Macclesfield Town, complete collapse.

Mr Parry said many MPs, particularly in northern towns, were very aware that lower league football clubs were at “the heart of their communities”.

The bill was initially introduced in March 2024 by the previous Conservative government, following a fan-led review headed by former sports minister Tracey Crouch.

But it ran out of parliamentary time when Rishi Sunak called a general election.

When it took office, Labour reintroduced the bill, promising to protect clubs’ “financial sustainability”.

Under Kemi Badenoch, the Tories have shifted their position and now oppose the bill.

Badenoch has argued it will be “a waste of money”.

Mr Parry said he still wanted to engage with the Conservative leadership on the merits of a regulator, adding that he believed many grassroots Tories still backed the idea. (BBC)

The Premier League has repeatedly argued that English football is capable of regulating itself

Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada scored his ninth goal for Japan in the 2-0 win

Sports National

Fulford reelected unopposed to FIFA Council

– ATTENDS SAUDI ARABIAN FF WOMEN’S CUP FINAL

Sonia Fulford has made history once again, securing an unopposed re-election to the FIFA Council for an unprecedented third consecutive term. This achievement cements her legacy as a trailblazer in global football governance and a powerful advocate for the Caribbean region.

Fulford, who also serves on the Concacaf Council, is the first woman to hold these positions for three successive terms. Initially elected to the FIFA Council in 2013, she is now the second longestserving member, a testament to her enduring influence and leadership in the sport.

Her journey began as a player for the Turks & Caicos Islands National Team, later transitioning to administrative roles, including General Secretary of the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) in 2006 and President in 2014.

Over the years, Fulford has championed football development, inclusivity, and opportunities for smaller nations, particularly in the Caribbean.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled by the confidence shown in me by my colleagues and the global football community. This journey has never been about personal accolades but about creating opportunities, fostering growth, and ensuring that football continues to unite and inspire. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the members and stakeholders who have supported me throughout the years. My gratitude also goes to my dedicated staff and the entire TCIFA family, present and past, who have made my job easier with their unwavering commitment. To my family, especially my husband Guadrvin Missick, your support has been my pillar of strength, and I share this achievement with you.”

Looking ahead, Fulford reaffirmed her pledge to continue

her mission of empowering the people of the region, particularly women, and ensuring that Caribbean football continues to thrive on the world stage.

“This re-election is not just a victory for me but for the entire region. It is proof that our voices matter and that we have a seat at the highest levels of decisionmaking. I remain steadfast in my commitment to advocating for our region, fostering talent, and ensuring that football serves as a vehicle for positive change.”

Following her re-election, Fulford visited the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) in Riyadh at the invitation of President Yasser Al-Misehal. She attended the SAFF Women’s Cup Final, where she observed the significant advancements in women’s football within Saudi Arabia, a country that has experienced notable social changes in recent years.

Reflecting on the experience, she remarked: “It was an honour to visit the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) in Riyadh at the invitation of President Yasser Al-Misehal to witness the SAFF Women’s Cup Final. Beyond the thrilling match, I had the privilege of seeing firsthand the incredible strides women’s football has made in Saudi Arabia. Just a few years ago, in 2018, women couldn’t even drive; now, they are playing, coaching, and leading in the sport.

“The transformation is remarkable, and while we often hear about Saudi’s progress, it’s only when you visit that you truly grasp the scale of change. I encourage those with outdated perceptions to experience it for themselves.”

Fulford also used the visit to explore partnership opportunities between TCIFA and SAFF, aiming to strengthen ties and foster football development for both nations. She added:

“In addition to celebrating women’s football, this visit was also an opportunity to explore meaningful partnership opportunities between the Turks & Caicos Islands Football

Association (TCIFA) and SAFF. I look forward to building bridges that will benefit both our nations and our region and continue to advance the game we love.”

Her re-election and her

continued advocacy ensure that the Caribbean maintains a strong voice in global football governance. With her steadfast leadership, the future of football in the region looks brighter than ever.

Sonia Fulford in Saudi Arabia this week

Sonia Fulford is the first woman to serve on both the FIFA and Concacaf councils for three successive terms

Sonia Fulford with FIFA’s President Gianni Infantino

Da Conch Shack Provo Hockey League finals set for this Saturday

– Islanders register first win of season in final round of Playoffs

The finals of the Da Conch Shack Provo Hockey League (PHL) are scheduled for this Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre in Providenciales.

In the Junior Division, the Kvanar Oilers will meet the L’Heureux and Co Canadiens with the Tibor’s Sharks and the COMO Parrot Cay Canucks battling it out in the consolation clash.

In the Bantam Division final, the Turkberry Hurricanes will meet the TMW Lighting with the Temple Financial Panthers and the Ritz Carlton Flyers meeting in the consolation clash.

The Novice final will be between the Saunders and Co Greyhounds and the Design Studio Jets, with a consolation clash between the Projetech Pirates and the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders.

In their latest clash, the Islanders

were able to register their first win of the season, when they met the Jets. In that game, Jacob de Leon

Jaguars beat Beaches in T20

cricket

The Jaguars registered a 43-run victory against Beaches when action in the TCI Cricket Association T20 competition continued on Sunday last at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales.

Beaches won the toss and opted to insert their opponents to take first strike.

Opening batsman, Daniel Bourne however batted himself in, and although wickets fell at the other end, he was able to pick up the pace by striking seven fours for a top score of 42.

In the latter stages, Paul

McKenzie with 25 runs (2x4s, 2x6s) and Premnauth Pramanand with 27 (5x4s) also played a few shots to push the Jaguars’ score to 163 in 19 overs.

Three of the Beaches’ bowlers finished with two wickets each, including, Jerome Daley who picked up the wicket of Bourne.

Daley finished with 2-29 from four overs, while Sidue Hunter picked up 2-25 from his four overs and Chabbie Charley 2-42 from four overs.

In reply, Charley and Earl Henry (who played most of his career

slammed in two goals, one in each period, to ensure the 2-0 victory.

In the other Playoffs Novice

clash, favourites for the title this year, the Saunders and Co Greyhounds stormed to a 7-2 win against the Pirates. Kai Henry led the attack with four goals, while Dylan Garland added three goals and two assists.

In the Bantam Division, the Hurricanes, led by a strong first period, defeated the Panthers 5-2 owing to a hat-trick from Damian Rutherford and a goal each from Ryan King and Yash Ochani.

The Panthers’ goals came off the stick of Shlok Ganglani and Connor Bromley.

In the other Bantam clash, the Lightning marched to a 5-0 win against the Flyers. Odyn Nielsen led the attack with four goals, while Oisin Ryan added the other.

The Junior Division was a

prelude to this weekend with the Oilers defeating the Canadiens 7-3 to gain momentum before their championship clash.

In last week’s game, Estheban Couture, Jack Henry and Owen Barkworth Knight led the attack with two goals each, while Jaden Julien added the other, for the Oilers.

The Canadiens were led by Lucas Emery with two goals and Kaven King with a goal.

In the other Junior Division clash, the Canucks got past the Sharks 6-4.

Liam Redstone and Felix Arnth Jensen led the Canucks with two goals each. Support came from Elina Stanbrook and Rishith Gururaja with a goal apiece.

The Sharks were led by Cj Moriarty who stormed to four goals.

with the Jaguars) added what looked like a match-winning 77 for the second wicket, but they had little support after. Charley led Beaches’ attack with 39 (5x4s, 2x6s), while Henry

The Oilers have momentum on their side in the Junior Division

The Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders registered their first win of the season last Saturday

Players of the Week in the last day of the playoffs

The Jaguars won their opener of the new season

added four fours in his score of 26. Even with a strong lower order, Beaches still faltered with none of the other batsmen reaching eight runs as the side fell for 120 in 17.4 overs.

Randy Laulys who got the prize wickets of Anthony McKnight and Hunter finished with 2-18 from four overs, while Kirtley Charley finished with 2-22 from 3.4 and Parmanand 2-22 from three overs.