TC Weekly News, May 17-23, 2025

ELECTION PETITION RULING ON JUNE 5

A ruling on the PDM’s election petition is set for early next month, following extensive witness testimonies and legal arguments this week regarding alleged irregularities in the February 7 general election. The case challenges the validity of the results, with one side seeking a fresh parliamentary vote while the other contends that the election met legal compliance standards.

“Banks betray trust!”— Seymour tells Parliament

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Newly elected Member of Parliament for South Caicos, Tamell “Jello” Seymour, delivered a blistering rebuke of the nation’s banking institutions, criticising their inadequate service delivery across the islands.

On Monday, 5 May, in the Turks and Caicos Islands Parliament in Grand Turk, Seymour expressed outrage and frustration as he accused banks of “betraying the trust” of the people, citing chronic failures of ATMs and deliberate cash shortages.

Seymour, an emerging force in the political arena, delivered a sharp critique of the long-standing practices of financial institutions in the territory.

“I stand here as the elected representative of the proud, hardworking people of South Caicos,” he declared, his voice resonating through the chamber. “I come before you not just as a voice from one island, but as a voice that feels silenced—outright disrespected— by the banking institutions operating within our borders.”

The crux of Seymour’s argument centred on the unreliability of ATMs, the primary means by which many residents access their funds.

He painted a stark picture of machines “regularly out of cash, frequently out of service, and consistently failing to meet the basic needs of our communities.” This, he insisted, was not merely a technical issue but a deliberate

pattern.

“This is a choice,” Seymour asserted, his voice rising. “It is my understanding that banks deliberately refuse to import sufficient cash into the Turks and Caicos Islands to meet public demand. Why? Because it costs more.”

He argued that banks prioritise profit over service, choosing to “pass the burden onto our people” rather than incur the expense of adequately supplying ATMs, particularly in outlying districts like South Caicos and North Caicos.

The MP highlighted what he deemed a “cruel irony,” describing the stringent regulations placed on citizens regarding cash holdings, contrasted with banks’ apparent inability—or unwillingness—to provide access to those same funds.

“If a citizen is found to have more than $10,000 in cash, they must account for where it came from,” he explained. “But when that same citizen goes to the bank to withdraw their own money, the bank tells them, ‘We don’t have enough cash available today.’”

Seymour characterised the issue as “systemic” and far beyond mere “banking inconvenience.”

He emphasised the real-world consequences for livelihoods, businesses, and everyday life, stating that the current situation “affects livelihoods, business operations, emergencies, and the daily dignity of our people.”

Drawing comparisons to other Caribbean nations such as Jamaica

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and Trinidad, where stricter regulations and service standards are in place, Seymour questioned why the Turks and Caicos Islands were not holding banks to the same level of accountability.

He called for legislation mandating operational ATMs with real-time monitoring, rapid replenishment protocols, and transparency regarding service disruptions.

Furthermore, he urged the empowerment of the Financial Services Commission to “monitor and penalise non-compliant banks,” declaring that “a banking licence is a privilege, not a right.”

Seymour vowed not to rest until “every citizen in South Caicos can access their funds without delay” and until the banking sector is “forced to remember who they serve.” He committed himself to ensuring the Turks and Caicos Islands has “a financial system that is not built just for profit, but for the working-class people.”

Seymour’s passionate address has ignited a public debate, placing significant pressure on both the government and the banking sector to address the concerns raised.

Ambergris Cay private island resort joins

The

This inclusion places Ambergris

Ambergris Cay Private Island Resort has been officially welcomed into Virtuoso’s exclusive portfolio of luxury travel partners, marking a significant milestone for the premier private island destination in the southeastern Turks and Caicos Islands.

resort becomes the second

private island property and ninth overall resort in Turks and Caicos to gain entry into Virtuoso—a global network of 2,300 preferred luxury travel providers across 100 countries, renowned for delivering exceptional travel experiences to discerning travellers.

Cay alongside some of Turks and Caicos’ most celebrated resorts, including Amanyara, Beach Enclave, COMO Parrot Cay, Grace Bay Club, The Palms, The Ritz-Carlton, The Shore Club, and Wymara Resort and Villas,

Member of Parliament for South Caicos, Tamell “Jello” Seymour in Parliament

Ambergris Cay All Inclusive Columbus Beach Villas

Judgement in Election Petition set for June 5

– PDM holds strong to their claims of irregularities, PNP says not significant enough to void an entire election

Supreme Court Justice Chris Selochan will render a judgment in the People’s Democratic Movement’s (PDM) Election Petition this 5 June, following three days of witness testimony and attorney submissions this week.

The trial commenced on Monday, 12 May, following a pre-trial hearing last week. That hearing sought to determine the necessity of calling the Law Revision Commissioner to the witness stand. That person is the Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, who is one of the attorneys representing the Supervisor of Elections in the matter.

Justice Selochan determined last week that the Commissioner was not material to the PDM’s case, dismissing the party’s application calling for her to recuse herself as an attorney in the matter.

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

The party is seeking to have the election and the return of the

members declared null and void, along with an order for a writ for fresh parliamentary elections. They are also requesting that the counterfoils to the ballot papers and/or the ballots for the All-Island candidates be scrutinised.

Representing the petitioners in the matter are Attorneys George C Missick and Alvin Garland (on record) of the local bar, along with Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay

of Belize.

For respondent one – Supervisor of Elections – were the Attorney General, Clemar Hippolyte and Khadija MacFarlane of the Attorney General’s Chambers.

For respondent two – Randy Howell – Queen’s Counsel Ariel Misick, Akierra Missick, and Willin Belliard appeared.

On Monday, the case kicked off with several witness testimonies,

Ambergris Cay private island resort ...

reinforcing the islands’ status as a premier destination in the luxury travel market.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is firmly established as a Virtuoso Destination, and we are pleased to welcome Ambergris Cay to this prestigious network,” Interim CEO/Consultant at Experience Turks and Caicos, Paul Pennicook said “Virtuoso provides access to over 20,000 of the world’s leading luxury travel advisors, enabling us to showcase the unique and enriching experiences of the Turks and Caicos Islands to a global luxury audience.”

Andreas Naegele, Vice President of Hospitality at Waterloo Hotel Management Limited (WHML), which owns and operates a collection of five premier resorts, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “It is a true honour to be recognised as a preferred partner of Virtuoso. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to exceptional service and elevated hospitality. We look forward to collaborating with Virtuoso advisors to introduce their clients to our bespoke luxury and nature-forward experiences.”

Since becoming a Virtuoso

destination in 2023, Experience Turks and Caicos has actively engaged with the network’s high-profile events, including Virtuoso Week in Las Vegas, where over 100 travel advisors were introduced to the Turks and Caicos’ unique offerings. The destination has also been recognised as a Top 10 HighestRated Virtuoso Training Partner and acknowledged as a leading training partner in Q2 2024.

Ambergris Cay’s inclusion in Virtuoso further strengthens Turks and Caicos’ position on the global luxury travel stage, offering an unparalleled island experience to an international audience.

including Member of Parliament for the Blue Hills constituency, Hon Randy Howell. According to the PDM’s petition, there was an unlawful denial of a recount request in that constituency made by Anthony Walkin, the PDM candidate. Walkin, who lost by three votes to Howell, sought to have all the All-Island ballots recounted. The petition states that the Supervisor of Elections wrongfully refused the recount request, citing procedural irregularities.

During their cross-examination of Howell, counsel for the petitioner raised several inaccuracies found in the ballot. Election day workers at that polling station in Blue Hills were also called to the stand to give testimony.

Supervisor of Elections Dudley Lewis was also called as a witness to present the form that was used on election day, 7 February, which the PDM contends was the wrong form. This point was conceded by the respondent. However, PDM lawyers also pointed the court’s attention to what they stipulated were additions made to the ballot that are not prescribed under the laws of the TCI. The addition was purportedly made by the Supervisor of Elections, indicating to voters that they could vote for any candidate, and not for every candidate in the race.

On day two of the hearing, Queen’s Counsel Misick presented an application to the court on behalf of the respondents. His application challenged the jurisdiction of the court to declare the entire election null and void. He also pointed to where the court has jurisdiction, showing precedent that the court’s jurisdiction lies only in the declaration of an elected member’s seat being null and void.

The PDM team has been given time to present written submissions to the court on this point, as it was not previously raised. The Judge will render a judgment on this application before delivering a final decision on the petition.

Closing arguments started on the second day, with respected Belizean Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay presenting for the PDM on why they felt the election was fundamentally flawed. His main argument was that the laws in the TCI require full compliance. However, PNP lawyers argued that the irregularities were not significant enough to void the election and that the ballot was sufficiently accurate. They conceded that while errors may have been made by the Law Revision Commissioner, the court should find that they were still in substantial compliance and therefore should not set aside the election.

PDM Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood

PDM Deputy Leader Robert Been

MPS PUSH BACK AGAINST CARNIVAL’S POSTPONEMENT IN GRAND TURK

MPs in the Turks and Caicos Islands are calling for action following Carnival Cruise Line’s suspension of multiple stops in Grand Turk. Both government and opposition MPs, including former Minister of Tourism Hon Josephine Connolly and Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood, have voiced concerns about the economic impact.

Carnival cited “operational reasons” for cancelling visits by several ships, leading to widespread speculation and frustration. Connolly criticised the government’s lack of communication and highlighted potential economic repercussions, including the risk of a recession affecting tourism revenue.

Astwood emphasised the immediate financial losses faced by local entrepreneurs and urged the government to take a firm stance against large corporations. The situation has sparked discussions about the island’s reliance on a single cruise line and raised questions about the future sustainability of its cruise tourism industry.

What are your thoughts?

Carnival and Grand Turk

It is great that Hon Josephine Connolly, an all-island elected MP, has come forward to champion the cause of the people of the TCI. In her parliamentary remarks, she criticised the lack of government communication and detailed potential economic repercussions, including the possibility of a recession affecting tourism revenue.

This is, at the very least, embarrassing. How can we have a government composed of men like Washington Misick, Hon Jamell Robinson, and Hon EJ Saunders, all remaining silent as a major project pulls out of Grand Turk and shifts its attention to the Dominican Republic? Why are they so quiet?

As Hon Connolly states, we now face the possibility of a recession affecting the islands’ revenue. How could this escape the attention and concern of the government? This is a rare moment where the Opposition Leader and Hon Connolly are speaking with one voice—an example of party politics being set aside for a greater national interest. Hon Connolly is to be commended for

people.

The PNP, on the other hand, appears more comfortable with big corporate players in the TCI. They remain notably silent in the wake of allegations of racism against locals by these companies and are often complicit. The regulations passed by the Premier and his government from 2021–2024 to keep locals off the beach in Grand Turk—or anywhere near the Carnival beach areas—are a testament to this type of selfinflicted discrimination against the people of the country. The situation surrounding beach vendors is another travesty, akin to their efforts to remove gratuity payments for local workers.

The remarks of the PDM Leader of the Opposition highlight their willingness to stand up to big corporations in times like these, when it truly matters. Furthermore, the opposition is addressing the immediate issue of financial losses for local TCI businesses. Where is the government in all of this?

these issues. Are they merely content to be cheerleaders, supporting the government whether it is right or wrong? They should be ashamed of themselves, as this is a disgrace to democracy. It is their right, duty, and obligation to criticise the government when it is failing.

As far as they are concerned, Carnival pulling out of Grand Turk seems to be perfectly acceptable to them.

Come clean

The government needs to come clean with ALL discussions held and agreements made with Carnival in particular when they rushed through Parliament the Beach and Coastal Vending Act 2021.

breaking ranks with the usual approach and speaking openly about the issues as they are.

The response of the opposition

Leader of the PDM Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood, speaks to the financial losses that will impact local Turks and Caicos Islander businesses. He is urging the government to stand firm against large corporations. It is here that the PDM and PNP have, over the years, developed a sharp ideological divide. It was once thought that there was little to no ideological difference in the TCI’s political spectrum. While the PDM is willing to work with large corporations and support local TCI businesses, they have always been prepared to take a stand against them when circumstances demand it. It was the PDM government of 1999–2003 that initially brought the Carnival deal to Grand Turk. They have demonstrated, as the Leader of the Opposition advises, a willingness to take a strong stance against these corporations when they “go off the rails” and take actions that may harm the

Where is the oversight?

Thank God for the brave and resonant voices of the Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood, and Hon Josephine Connolly, who are speaking truth to power—eloquently, clearly, and without political recrimination.

These are serious, immediate, and pressing issues that affect the economic life of Grand Turk and the budget of the entire TCI. Yet the government and its entire backbench remain silent. They are truly people without shame or a sense of care for the public. Their mantra seems to be: “Keep silent and collect your cheque at the end of the month,” and “To hell with the people and their plight.”

Why are we not hearing from Hon Otis Morris, elected MP for Grand Turk on the PNP side? Where are the voices of Hon Sharon Simons, Hon Akierra Missick, Hon Sammy Been, Hon Randy Howell, Hon Jay Stubbs, and the other members of the PNP team?

There are 17 of you, yet not one appears to be “alert and alive” enough to speak on

What were the agreed terms? One cannot address one’s mind to a given situation without knowing all the facts. On the face of it, it seems that the government poorly negotiated terms of agreements with Carnival which are now coming back to haunt us. What does the government intend to do to prevent Grand Turks’ economy from collapsing?

The truth will set you free

Hon Edwin Astwood and Hon Josephine Connolly deserve recognition for standing up and speaking truth to power on an issue that could have significant consequences for the economic future of Grand Turk and the

The Retreat breaks ground in Grace Bay

BY DELANA ISLES

Nestled in the heart of Grace Bay, The Retreat – Provo’s newest and hottest development - offers 24 elegantly designed studio residences that promise tranquility, comfort and lux living.

On May 8, hoteliers, developers, and specially invited guests were joined by government officials to officially break ground for the luxury development.

“The Retreat is a perfect offering here in the heart of Grace Bay, just a short walk to Grace Bay Beach and all of the restaurants and shops in our tourist hub.” Sean O’Neill, Managing Partner of The Agency Turks & Caicos said. “We are very excited that The Retreat exceeded 50% of sales in less than six months from launch, showing the enthusiasm for this Development,” O’Neill said.

The Retreat is touted as more than a development; “it is a lifestyle destination”. Residents and guests will enjoy access to an array of premium amenities, including a crystal-clear heated pool, a hot tub surrounded by lush greenery, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a central garden oasis.

Trevor Musgrove of T Holdings and The Agency said the realization of the development is a testament to what is possible when worldclass design meets the natural beauty of Grace Bay. “Building this development has been a labor of love, rooted in family, community, and a deep belief in the potential of Turks and Caicos Islanders,” Musgrove shared.

He said they have learned, grown and now have the tools

and skills to turn their vision into reality. “Our goal is to create a fully locally owned and operated hotel brand - one that offers firstclass service and empowers our local talent.”

He said as they move forward, it is not just about building a hotel “it’s about building legacy, ownership, and belief in what’s possible for Turks and Caicos Islanders”.

“From our roots in North Caicos to standing here today on Grace Bay, we’ve come full circle. And we’re not stopping here - this is just the beginning,” Musgrove promised.

He said what makes the development so special is that it embodies the “perfect balance of tranquility, luxury, and modern design”.

Attending the groundbreaking were the Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick; Deputy Premier, Hon Jamell Robinson and the Minister of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment, Hon Zhavargo Jolly. They all shared their congratulations on the project and their excitement for what it represented, not just for Grace Bay but for Turks and Caicos Islanders.

Construction is planned for completion by the third quarter of 2026, with rentals expected to begin in the fourth quarter.

“The Retreat represents a unique opportunity to deliver strong returns through thoughtful, experience-driven hospitality,” said Joe Harvey, Principal, Executive Director of Pinnacle Hospitality Advisors.

He said as managers, “We

wider TCI. Their willingness to challenge the silence from the government demonstrates strong leadership and a commitment to the people. At a time when decisive action is needed, their voices provide clarity and direction.

Yet, the lack of response from the government and backbench MPs is deeply disappointing. Their silence in the face of Carnival Cruise Line’s decision to reduce stops in Grand Turk raises serious questions about their priorities. How can they remain passive while a major project shifts focus to the Dominican Republic, potentially harming tourism revenue?

It is alarming that elected officials who represent the people appear more interested in political convenience than addressing real concerns.

This issue is a test of leadership, and it is reassuring to see opposition MPs taking it seriously. However, the government’s failure to respond proactively is a glaring shortcoming. Their unwillingness to challenge corporate decisions that affect local businesses and workers speaks volumes. If they continue to stay silent, they risk losing the trust of the people who elected them to lead.

focus on optimising operational performance, increasing asset value, and building legacy brands for investors and developers that resonate with today’s luxury bespoke traveler.”

Harvey said the collaboration reflects their strategic commitment

to managing high-performing boutique properties in premier destinations like Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Retreat is a collaboration between industry leaders, including Pinnacle Hospitality Advisors, Archipelago Development, T

Holdings and The Agency Turks & Caicos. With decades of expertise in luxury property development, sales, and management, the partnership ensures that The Retreat will be a landmark destination celebrating the best of island living.

A sleek frontal view of The Retreat – artist rendering

The expansive luxury development boasts competitively priced condominiums, with innovative design and an exceptional proximity to one of the most beloved beaches in the world Exciting groundbreaking

Violent weekend leaves one dead, two others injured

BY DELANA ISLES

A violent Mother’s Day weekend has left the territory reeling – with one dead and two wounded – the second quarter of 2025 has begun much like it did in 2024 – a year where the first half of the year saw a stark increase in murders.

Dead is Cyrillo Smith – a Kew Town man – found riddled with bullets by police after they responded to reports of gunfire. Two unnamed men are also nursing gunshot wounds in the hospital.

Thirty-three-year-old Smith lost his life in the late morning hours of Sunday, May 11. Police said they were alerted to gunshots heard in the vicinity of Harmony Close in Kew Town sometime around 11:12 pm on Saturday.

When they arrived in an area named Cerasi Close, first responders found a male victim with what appeared to be gunshot wounds, unresponsive. At about 12:16 am, he was pronounced dead by a medical doctor, according to police.

The dead man was later identified as Cyrillo Smith.

Police said while officers were securing the area, they became aware of another male victim nearby who had sustained injuries. He was rushed to a medical facility for treatment.

Meanwhile, as cops were attending to one crime scene, reports came in of another shooting, this time in Blue Hills. When officers arrived on the scene at Ralph Close, they found a young man - aged 20 – in a house with apparent gunshot wounds. The victim was rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.

No indication has been given if the two shootings were targeted

THE $540M NATIONAL BUDGET

The Turks and Caicos Islands government recently unveiled a $540 million budget for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, representing a 3% increase in spending compared to the previous year.

Premier Charles Washington Misick announced the budget in Parliament on 5 May 2025, emphasising citizen security, health, and education as key priorities.

The budget includes $471 million for recurrent expenditure, $5 million for nonrecurrent expenditure, and $63.9 million for capital expenditure.

Staff costs account for $171.4 million, which includes 189 newly established roles, primarily in national security.

attacks or were in any way connected.

A police statement on the shootings read: “As detectives continue their investigations, we appeal to members of the public who may have witnessed the incidents or have information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.”

As police continue to probe the shootings, on Monday, May 12, Her Excellency the Governor and the Hon. Premier were briefed by acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams on the incidents and the police force’s efforts to investigate and operations to secure the area.

Residents can notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or Crime Stoppers P3 app to report any information anonymously.

Last year, the territory experienced a shocking increase in homicides – from 24 in 2023 to 48 in 2024. Still higher than the deadly 2022, which recorded 33 homicides. This is an increase of over 100% in its homicide rate compared to 2023.

Smith’s murder is the 12 for 2025.

Although police had not said, the Smith’s murder and the shooting of the two other victims, bear the hallmarks of the gangrelated crime spree of last year.

In 2024, nearly 90% of the murders were linked to gang conflicts or retaliatory violence. Most of these crimes occurred in Blue Hills and Five Cays, with small criminal groups significantly disrupting public safety.

According to police, during an end-of-year press conference, 80% of violent crimes involve illegally imported firearms.

Funding is also allocated for pensions and gratuities, travel expenses, and professional and consultancy services, including digitisation of the Border Force and Crown Land management reforms.

The government plans to fund the budget through existing revenue streams while indicating potential future revenue-generating strategies.

What are your thoughts?

Wrong priorities

A $540 million budget, the largest ever, yet what is in it for the people? The government plans to hire 189 new staff, but where will they come from? The Caribbean? Haiti? The Dominican Republic? Cuba? What is the need for this level of expansion?

Where are the budgeted priorities that would directly impact the people? Why the significant expansion of border security? A case should be made for the UK government to contribute more funds towards border control and national security, given that this falls under its jurisdiction.

After all, the UK’s policy and agenda have long encouraged migration to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Former Governor Nigel Dakin pushed initiatives to accommodate and support migrants, including housing, education, and social services—all funded by the people of the TCI.

The Premier was well aware of this initiative. However, now that the public is outraged at the growing number of illegal migrants, he is seeking to fund border security solely from local resources rather than making a case for the UK to contribute. The Royal-appointed Governor still retains responsibility for external waters, and given that the influx of migrants is a UK policy, Britain should share the financial burden.

Meanwhile, where is the funding for the people?

Why is there no salary equalisation and improvement for lower-paid public service workers? Why are TC Islanders continuing to be left behind? The UK will pressure the government to bring in more overseas workers, but this budget does not prioritise the well-being and financial security of local people.

This budget lacks balance. It is misaligned, disconnected, and needs to deliver more for the people.

Where are the people in all of this?

This government appears more focused on serving a broader agenda rather than addressing the needs of the people. Year after year, we see a steady decline in direct funding for citizens while financial decisions increasingly align with UK fiscal policies.

For example, scholarship funding has been cut annually, reducing fully funded scholarships from 11 to just 8—a major disservice to the young people of the islands.

Excuses are being made for these reductions, yet the government holds 17 parliamentary seats—surely they could budget adequately for education and community development. Instead, funds are being

diverted elsewhere, away from essential social programmes and regional development. Where are the infrastructure and community projects for North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay?

Waste at the top

There is the alleged $13 million gift to an international resort. Then there is the ultra-secret airport deal, reportedly nearing the size of both the 2024/25 budget and the projected 2025/26 budgeting exercise.

Meanwhile, the country faces a budget deficit, which the Premier attributes to lawsuits lost by the Attorney General’s Chambers, with costs and damages being paid out to cover these losses.

Yet, despite these financial pressures, there are gradual increases in taxes, with various government departments raising service fees—ultimately shifting the burden onto the people.

Cyrillo Smith

Police Commissioner calls for unified regional strategy to combat transnational crime

Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey issued a strong call for Caribbean nations to adopt a collective approach in tackling organised crime, warning that criminal networks operate without regard for judicial boundaries and thrive due to porous borders and limited regional coordination.

Delivering a keynote presentation at the 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP) in Guyana, this week,

Bailey underscored the growing threat posed by transnational crime.

Titled ‘Regional Response to Stymie the Tentacles of Transnational Organised Crime’, his presentation addressed a spectrum of illicit activities—including drug trafficking, human and migrant smuggling, money laundering, environmental crimes, cybercrime, and illicit firearms trafficking—that continue to plague the region.

“The criminals we face today are increasingly sophisticated, operating with impunity across borders. If we

do not adopt a unified strategy, we will continue to struggle against forces that have no respect for judicial boundaries,” Bailey stated. He highlighted the types and calibres of weapons being trafficked, methods of concealment, and the urgent need for tighter regulation and accountability within courier services.

Bailey also called for Caribbean states to implement coordinated regional roadmaps, strengthen detection and investigative capacities, and collaborate on

Jamaican fugitive wanted for 2021 murder arrested in TCI

Wanted man Alex Anthony McDonald, a 31-year-old national of Jamaica, was arrested in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Saturday, May 10, in relation to a wanted bulletin out for him since May 11, 2022, in neighbouring Jamaica.

According to local police, they received a report that McDonald was seen at Sapodilla Beach in Chalk Sound, Providenciales last Saturday. Acting promptly, officers from the Tactical Unit swiftly proceeded to the location and apprehended McDonald. Checks as to his immigration status in the islands later revealed that he entered the TCI illegally.

He was taken into police custody and later formally charged by the Criminal Investigations Department with unlawful entry. Police said they received further information that the Jamaica Constabulary Force is seeking McDonald in connection with an ongoing murder investigation in the neighbouring island.

According to 2022 media

reports out of Jamaica, McDonald is wanted in connection with the murder of 19-year-old Romario Barnes, aka ‘Bududup’.

Reports state that the wanted man and the victim were at Water Lane, Junction in St. Elizabeth at 8:10 pm on November 11, 2021, when an altercation occurred.

McDonald reportedly walked away, returned with a handgun and allegedly shot Barnes in the head. Barnes was subsequently pronounced dead by medical professionals.

According to media reports, three others – aged 13 15, and 18 – were charged in connection with the murder. In January 2022, the Jamaican Constabulary Force issued a wanted bulletin for McDonald, along with 87 others. He was listed as a murder suspect in the aforementioned murder.

TCI police said that their investigations remain active as they continue to work closely with regional law enforcement partners and Interpol Units on this matter.

The arrest comes as Caribbean Top Cops gathered in Georgetown, Guyana, for the 39th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP).

Among the intent of the annual event is to forge closer collaboration among regional police forces as Caribbean countries battle rising violent crime in their individual jurisdictions.

A major highlight of the conference was a presentation by the newly confirmed and sworn Commissioner of Police of the Royal TCI Police Force, Fitz Bailey, titled ‘Regional Response to Stymie the Tentacles of Transnational Organized Crimes’.

At the time of the murder, Bailey was the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Crime and Security within the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

As the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force continues their probe into McDonald’s activities in the territory, they are urging

joint operations with international partners such as INTERPOL.

Additionally, he urged the establishment of evidence-based monitoring systems to track arms trafficking more effectively.

Held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Liliendaal, under the theme ‘United against Crime’, the four-day conference opened on 12 May, the event saw participation from over 24 Commissioners of Police and their delegations from across the Caribbean region.

A key objective of this year’s conference was to enhance crossborder collaboration, disrupt transnational criminal networks that threaten regional security, and promote safer communities for all Caribbean citizens.

The opening ceremony was attended by President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali, and Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), the Honourable Mark Phillips. Several regional diplomats and security experts were also present.

Jamaican wanted man, Alex McDonald arrested

members of the public to come forward with any information they may have about him in relation to any illegal activities.

“The RTCIPF is also making inquiries to determine whether McDonald is linked to any crimes in the TCI,” a statement from local police this week read.

Residents are once again reminded of the ways to report crime in the TCI: the nearest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or on the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information anonymously. (DELANA ISLES)

Commissioner of Police, Fitz Bailey, as he arrived at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Guyana for the 39th ACCP Conference (Photos: RTCIPF)

Twenty-four Commissioners of Police and their delegations from across the Caribbean region were represented at the conference

OPINIONS

Stop rewarding habitual failures

It fosters a culture of mediocrity and lower standards

INTRODUCTION

I have written articles in the past saying that it is ok to fail and I still believe that. However, repeating the same mistakes without learning or improvement, yet being rewarded, is problematic. Let me give you an example, when I was in high school, they rewarded students for coming first, second and third no matter what grade you obtained. I failed physics but I got a certificate for getting first place in physics. I was praised, congratulated and rewarded but at the same time I did not pass physics and so a culture of mediocrity was created. Lacking motivation to learn, I received a U on my physics GCE.

Stop rewarding habitual failures

If we really were to take stock of what is going on around us not only in Turks and Caicos but

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.

throughout the world, I honestly believe we would conclude that we are rewarding failures. Because of this, we are in the position we are in. We have accepted the low standards and mediocrity as norms in our societies.

We are promoting underperforming employees. They are not completing their work, consistently arriving late, and

failing to meet their deadlines.

Despite these issues, they continue to receive promotions and are evaluated above expectations. We also give them a salary increase not based on performance but based on their tenure.

Some schools continue to reward students for positions. Some schools have discontinued placing positions on report cards

and now focus on achieving grades rather than positions.

We also reward our politicians. We elect and re-elect politicians based on party politics without holding them accountable.

SET HIGH STANDARDS AND HOLD PEOPLE ACCOUNTABLE

If we want to create a culture of excellence and high performance, we need to establish high standards. Of course, it will be a challenge at times to meet those standards, and some people will fail in the process of trying to do so and it is fine if they fail. We should not reward individuals for falling below standards; adhering to standards is imperative. However, if individuals improve their performance, we should encourage them and provide the necessary

tools, training and resources that are needed so that they can meet or exceed the standards. Individuals and organisations should be measured against established standards and milestones. When someone knows that their performance is tied to something, I believe it will push them to pursue excellence.

CONCLUSION

Rewarding failure undermines growth and integrity. It is time we refrain from making excuses for individuals and organisations. How long must we wait to see a change? It is important to foster a culture of accountability and excellence by ceasing to reward failures. Reward individuals who grow and succeed. In doing so, we will create a highly results-driven society, better teams, and better institutions.

Glimpses of eternity

No matter who you are you can make a difference

It is easy to feel small and insignificant in this world, especially when you see the movers and shakers of the political, business, cultural, and entertainment world hobnobbing with each other behind closed doors, only coming out to wave to the adoring crowds and dispense their vision for your life. I n a world that stresses individual freedom and the power to be whatever you want to be, it must be horribly galling to recognise that it is the decision-makers who are defining your life. They determine what you eat, where you go, what is good for you, and who you listen to. These

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.

overlords choose when the world slips into recession and what slice of the pie you get to have. Truth be told, you are not the captain of your ship. You are being taken for a ride, and you have no say in it. Well, that is not totally true. No matter how small and insignificant

you think you are, you can make a world of difference in how things work. Take these two ladies, Ruth and Naomi. They lived during a time of gross immorality, lawlessness, and evil (see last week’s article on the time of the Judges).

They were both widows after losing their husbands. They were both childless—Naomi, the older woman, had lost two sons in addition to her husband—skillless and poor. As a matter of fact, the future looked equally bleak for both of them. Naomi was so despondent that she gave herself a nickname, Mara. If you speak Hebrew, you would know that Mara means “bitter”. That is how bad things were for her.

They were not close to the power brokers of the day, to the

point that they had to depend on the generosity of a farmer named Boaz to get enough food to survive. And yet, they changed history. But not in the way you think. They did not invent or write anything. They lived quiet, faithful, obscure, ordinary lives. So how did they do it? Well, Ruth, Naomi’s daughter-in-law, while looking for food, stumbled upon the farm of a relative of her mother-in-law, who allowed her to pick up some of the harvested crops that fell from the reapers.

However, her dedication, hard work, and integrity soon got the attention of a few people—to the point that her benefactor, Boaz (he owned the farm she was working on), began to take extra notice of her. When Naomi recognised this,

she instructed Ruth to show her interest in Boaz, which she did. Before long, they got married and had a bouncing baby boy.

He had a grandson named David. That grandson was the greatest king of Israel and had a descendant who was the greatest man who ever lived—Jesus. Because of him, the world is a different place today, and one day, everything that is broken, Jesus will fix it.

Ruth changed the world because she acted with integrity and faithfulness, even though she was poor and had to eke out a living by begging for food. She worked hard, did not complain about her plight, and trusted the advice of those who loved her. More than anything, she believed in the one true God, Yahweh.

And because she did, even though she was one woman in a big, bad world, she made a world of difference.

And you can too—right where you are, even if you are doing the same things day in and day out. Work hard, walk in integrity and righteousness, and worship the true God.

Credit union and mortgage corporation promises languish amid budget debates

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The long-awaited promise of transformative financial institutions—a national credit union and a robust mortgage corporation—hangs precariously in the balance as the proposed legislative framework remains in draft form.

While the 2025-2026 budget appropriations dominated the recent Appropriations Committee meeting, citizens are left questioning whether these longanticipated projects will ever come to fruition or remain mere echoes of campaign rhetoric.

The vision for a national credit union first emerged with fervent hope in January 2020 under the previous People’s Democratic Movement administration, which went so far as to join the World Council of Credit Unions.

This initiative appeared to be rekindled by the current administration with promises of $7 million in seed funding.

These financial institutions aim to provide an alternative lending system, empowering business owners and entrepreneurs with access to much-needed capital and disrupting the existing financial landscape dominated by a handful of major banks.

For many, this was not just policy but a beacon of financial independence.

However, as the Appropriations Committee met to discuss the 2025-2026 budget, concerns over the progress of these initiatives surfaced.

Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Edwin Astwood, directly challenged the Permanent Secretary of Finance, Athenee Harvey-Basden. “I see the continued work on the credit union is to be completed for the second quarter. We are approaching

the second quarter now. Has work been done to ensure that this is completed for the second quarter?” he asked, also adding, “…the mortgage corporation was supposed to be completed within quarter one, and next month quarter one will be finished. So has work been done, or are these things being pushed back?”

Harvey-Basden responded, “In terms of the continuation of the work to establish the credit union, progress is ongoing. We will take a second look at this particular KPI [Key Performance Indicator],

as the budget debates and certain items hinge on the appropriation.”

Regarding the Mortgage Corporation, she clarified, “… you will note it remains within quarter one. The MRF aims to obtain Cabinet approval for the proposed legislative framework for the Mortgage Corporation. So it is in the establishment phase, and there is a proposed framework for completion by the end of quarter one.

“Work is still ongoing, and we are still holding to that particular date. The proposed framework

will be forwarded to the Cabinet for consideration. However, any further details, as they relate to policy, would need to be addressed in the Committee of Supply.”

While Harvey-Basden’s assurances suggested ongoing work, the lack of concrete details has fuelled public apprehension.

The proposed Mortgage Corporation, established through an act of Parliament in March 2024 with $7 million in funding, also aims to address the “unhealthy, excessive cost of housing” in the Turks and Caicos Islands, where many residents struggle with affordability.

The launch of the National Housing Policy in July 2023 highlighted a critical housing crisis, with a significant number of residents paying over 50 per cent of their income on housing, while a vast majority aspire to home ownership.

During the Appropriations Committee meeting, HarveyBasden stressed that the total estimated expenditure for the financial year 2025-2026 stands at $540 million—a 3 per cent increase.

The Appropriations Committee’s role in ensuring that public funds are spent lawfully and responsibly is critical.

“Chile please!”

There aren’t many phrases in modern slang that can do as much heavy lifting as the iconic “Chile please”.

Born from the more innocent “child,” but steep into the Black Cultural expression, Child is used to convey, disbelief, exhaustion, humour, or judgment. It can cradle you with empathy. Clock you with shade or simply “I cant not deal with you today”. It ain’t loud but it says everything.

Now add “please” at the end of it, and you have gotten a whole different mess. Child Please has been massaged into a sassier perfection by Black Twitter and the internet’s messy aunties. Important to note that “Chile please” is not just an

BY DAVIDSON LOUIS

Rachel Wolchin once said: “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have had roots instead of feet.” On this quest to self-discovery, TC Islander Davidson Louis vowed to travel, write, paint, laugh and forgive. Subsequently, he hopes to find himself and or, leave behind a few pieces of himself. Contact him at hello. octopen@tcinews.tc

expression—it’s a lifestyle.

Let’s get one thing clear: “Chile Please” has absolutely nothing to do with spicy stew or South American geography. No one’s cooking. No one’s travelling. What we are doing is shutting down foolishness with flair. Imagine someone says

they’re going to quit their job, start a podcast, and become a millionaire by July. You? You just squint, sip your iced coffee, and go: “Chile Please.”

It’s not a hard “no,” but it’s definitely a “no ma’am, not today, not ever, try again when Mercury isn’t in retrograde.”

What makes “Chile Please” so elite is its range. It can mean “stop lying,” “I’m not impressed,” “you tried it,” or simply “go sit down somewhere.” Sometimes it’s even just a punctuation mark for absurdity. Let’s try it please.

Someone tells you they don’t like Beyoncé? “Chile Please”.

Someone thinks their boyfriend is faithful and always has. “Chile Please”.

Your friend insists they’re done dating toxic people—as they text their ex. “Chile Please”.

You had a long day! “Chile Please”.

You overworked and under pay. Chile Please!

A bag of orange at IGA for

$10.00? “Chile Please”.

Your so-call-friend called and asked to borrow money? Child Please

The lying bastard said they’re done cheating. “Chile Bye”

In short, “Chile Please” is how we survive the madness—with shade, humour, and just the right amount of lip gloss. So the next time someone says something wild, don’t get mad. Just raise a brow, channel your inner diva, and whisper the words that say it all: Chile, please.

SHARE YOUR FAV EXPRESSIONS ON: LOUISEDENS@GMAIL.COM OR @DAVIID.L2.

Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood

Leaders call on healthcare providers to “confront technological shift”

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The future of nursing in Turks and Caicos Islands is at a pivotal juncture, as healthcare leaders navigate the rapid integration of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into patient care.

At the recent Nurses Conference, a local expert warned that adapting to these changes is crucial, but support and training are paramount to ensure nurses are not left behind.

Former Premier Dr Rufus Ewing addressed the critical need for nurses to evolve with technology. “These are professionals who are integral in driving healthcare policies and managing personal data. But now, there is a need to step into more advanced specialties

that require a deeper understanding of technology and data analytics… AI is not going to take away your jobs. It is going to make you more efficient in doing them. It is going to redefine the rules of your profession. It will allow you to explore other opportunities and new roles within our healthcare system.”

Dr Ewing, a general surgeon and former politician, emphasised the importance of continued education and training.

“This evolution demands greater investment in continuing education and training for nurses, ensuring they are equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in these advanced roles.

“Moreover, with the rise of telehealth and remote patient

monitoring, nurses and doctors alike should now be able to provide care for patients in distant locations who may have previously been underserved.”

However, he also acknowledged the challenges and potential stress for nurses. “The pressures of adopting new technologies could be overwhelming. It is essential that we create an environment that fosters continuous learning and professional growth… As we explore the potential of telehealth and AI in healthcare, let us remember that technology should complement—not replace— the empathy, compassion, and critical thinking skills that nurses possess, which are irreplaceable.”

Deputy Governor Anya Williams further highlighted

the urgency of adapting to technological advancements, warning of the risk of being left behind. “There is a phrase I want you to remember today, and it is this: AI may not take your job, but the person who knows how to use it just might.

“I want to encourage you to sharpen your skills. Just because you have been in the field for 20 or 30 years does not mean that you know everything. I have to do the same in my job. I am in school now—every Wednesday night, I have online classes—because the world changes, times change, concepts change, and you have to keep abreast of developments in your profession.”

Williams also connected the dots between technological proficiency,

healthcare demand, and future economic stability. “Turks and Caicos Islands is in a phenomenal place right now. There is over a billion dollars of investment in the pipeline… But have you considered what that means for you? It means there will be increased demand on healthcare services… And so, you have to prepare yourself for that.”

The convergence of AI and nursing presents both immense opportunities and significant challenges for Turks and Caicos Islands.

Leaders are calling for a proactive approach to training and support to ensure nurses can effectively leverage technology while maintaining the human touch that is fundamental to their profession.

CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED

Former Premier Dr Rufus Ewing

Attendees at the recently held Nurses Conference

Economic surge threatens to overwhelm TCI’s healthcare

– Deputy Governor urges nurses to be prepared

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands is experiencing a surge in large investments and rapid development, bringing both opportunities and challenges.

While the economic expansion fuels progress, it also raises pressing concerns about whether the healthcare system can meet the growing demand, prompting urgent calls for strategic action.

Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams issued a compelling call to action during the Fourth Annual Nurses Conference, stressing the need for preparation as the territory braces for an unprecedented spike in healthcare demand.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is in a phenomenal position right now. There is over a billion dollars of investment in the pipeline, with several hotels being built across our islands,” Williams stated.

“There are numerous business ventures emerging. But have you connected the dots on what that means for you? It signifies an increased demand for healthcare, education, health services, and clinics. You must prepare for this, and we must prepare by investing in the necessary resources to improve healthcare provision in the islands.”

The Deputy Governor underscored that the territory’s prosperity could be a double-edged sword. While the economic boom

promises growth and opportunity, it also places inevitable strain on essential services, particularly healthcare.

Williams stressed the importance of proactive planning and strategic investment to address this challenge. “We need to critically assess what healthcare in Turks and Caicos Islands needs to become in order to cope with the anticipated demand arising from the significant investments in the territory,” she warned.

Williams pointed out that simply hoping for the best is not a viable strategy. “You must prepare for this, and we must do so by investing in the necessary resources to enhance healthcare provision, as well as ensuring we have qualified professionals in place,” she stated.

She emphasised that attracting and retaining local talent in healthcare is crucial so that the territory does not have to compete with the market for nurses and doctors. “We need to ensure that when our students go abroad to study in these areas, they actually return home to serve our communities,” she added.

The Deputy Governor also highlighted a concerning lack of local students pursuing careers in healthcare. “I’ll be honest with you—I sit in Cabinet every year when scholarships are awarded, and I am deeply disappointed at the low number allocated to healthcare

and education. It is not because the government does not provide funding—healthcare and education have always been priorities.

“But I believe there needs to be greater interest, and that interest must be instilled in our youth— starting in secondary school, so students understand what being a doctor or nurse truly entails.”

To combat this issue, Williams

urged healthcare professionals to become advocates and mentors for young people.

“I encourage you today to promote your profession more. Engage with students, mentor young people, and help them understand why healthcare is so essential—because the future of our territory depends on it.”

As development continues to

reshape Turks and Caicos Islands, the territory stands at a critical juncture, where its economic success hinges on its ability to provide adequate healthcare for its growing population.

The Deputy Governor made it clear—failure to address this looming healthcare crisis could jeopardise the very prosperity the territory seeks to achieve.

Deputy Governor, HE Anya Williams

Nurses conference highlights healthcare challenges and economic significance

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The fourth annual Nurses Conference concluded last week, after shining a spotlight on the indispensable role nurses play in both healthcare delivery and the economic stability of Turks and Caicos Islands.

Held at Beaches Resort in Providenciales on Friday, May 9, under the theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies,” the conference served as a platform for leaders and healthcare professionals to address critical issues facing the nursing profession and to celebrate their tireless contributions.

The conference was well attended by scores of nurses and nurse aides from various healthcare facilities across Turks and Caicos Islands.

Her Excellency, Governor Anya Williams; former Premier Dr Rufus Ewing; and Chief Executive of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, also attended and delivered remarks.

Honourable Kyle Knowles, Minister responsible for Health and Human Services, expressed his deep appreciation for nurses, stating unequivocally, “Nurses, you are the backbone of our healthcare system, delivering essential care, support, and advocacy for patients across the islands. Your unwavering commitment to providing quality care and excellence significantly impacts both the health and well-being of our citizens and the efficiency of our healthcare services.

By investing in you, our nurses, we are not only enhancing the quality of care but also contributing meaningfully to your growth and development,

thereby strengthening our nation’s economy.”

The Minister further emphasised the correlation between nurses’ well-being and economic prosperity.

“As we honour our nurses this week, let us recognise that their well-being is paramount. When we care for our nurses, we empower them to deliver the highest quality of care to our communities. This, in turn, strengthens our economy by ensuring a healthier population and a more productive workforce.”

Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs Jackurlyn Sutton, echoed these

sentiments, highlighting the Ministry’s ongoing support.

“For the past 16 years, since I have been chief nursing officer, the Ministry of Health has worked to demonstrate that you are truly valued as nurses, and without you, our healthcare system would not be achieving its successful outcomes.

You are our nurses. You are our future, and caring for your wellbeing will result in strengthening the economy of Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Sutton also advocated for better working conditions and professional development.

“We will continue to support you, to advocate for you, and we have done so over the years for improved working conditions and policies that support nurses and their professional development.

We need more local nurses. I believe now would be a good time to earmark special scholarships annually to train local nurses in specialised areas.

Now is the time to ensure that every effort is made to advance nursing education in these islands for young people who are interested in entering the profession.”

The conference not only

celebrated nurses’ contributions but also underscored the urgent need for continued support, investment, and advancement in nursing education and resources to meet the growing demands of Turks and Caicos Islands’ healthcare system. Nurses Day is recognised globally on 12 May 2025. This year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies,” underscores the crucial role nurses play—not only in delivering healthcare but also in driving the economic well-being of communities.

Nurses and Nurse’s aides at the conference

Chief Executive of the Turks & Caicos Islands Hospital Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant; Former Premier Dr Rufus Ewing and Deputy Governor, HE Anya Williams, seated at the head table

Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams (middle); Former Premier Dr Rufus Ewing, Chief Executive of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant flanked by a number of nurses and nurse’s aides at the Annual Nurses conference (Photo: Olivia Rose)

Grace Bay beach lands in top 10 of World’s 50 Best Beaches 2025

BY OLIVIA ROSE

Grace Bay Beach, a jewel in the crown of the Turks and Caicos Islands, is basking in the glow of international recognition once again.

In the highly anticipated 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches list, Grace Bay Beach has not only secured a spot but has catapulted into the top ten, landing at number 10—an impressive leap of seven places from its 2024 ranking.

This surge is more than just a number; it is a resounding affirmation of Grace Bay’s enduring allure, a fact that has local officials

and tourism professionals beaming with pride and renewed vigour.

This prestigious ranking is not the result of a casual vote but rather comes from an international panel of over 1,000 vetted travel professionals and influencers.

These individuals, deeply embedded in the global tourism scene, wield significant influence, shaping the destinations travellers dream of and ultimately choose. Their collective verdict on Grace Bay positions the territory’s beach among the world’s elite.

According to the beach ranking website, the criteria these experts consider go beyond mere

aesthetics. They evaluate the intangible essence of a beach— its atmosphere, accessibility, the clarity of its waters, and how these elements combine to create an unforgettable experience.

“Grace Bay isn’t just one of the best beaches in the world—it is part of who we are,” stated Minister of Tourism, Hon Zhavargo Jolly.

He stressed that the allure of Grace Bay Beach is not just its

physical attributes, stunning as they are, but the soul of the place—the intangible warmth and hospitality that linger in the memory.

“This recognition is more than a global ranking; it is a reflection of the natural beauty and welcoming spirit that define the Turks and Caicos Islands. We don’t just offer a great beach—we offer an experience that stays with you long after you leave.”

Tine Holst, co-founder of The World’s 50 Best Beaches, echoed this sentiment. “Grace Bay has long been known to travellers for its postcard-perfect beauty, and this year’s ranking confirms its place among the planet’s finest beaches,” she stated.

“It is the kind of beach that captures your heart the moment

CONTINUED  19

Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales

Howard Hamilton Airport redevelopment in limbo amid evaluation process

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The much-anticipated redevelopment of Howard Hamilton International Airport remains uncertain as the evaluation process for selecting a preferred partner via a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) continues.

According to Selvyn Philip Hawkins Jr., Chief Executive Officer of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA), final bids were received in December 2024, but the assessment is still ongoing.

During his presentation to the Appropriations Committee on Thursday, 15 May 2025, Hawkins addressed the project’s status.

“As I mentioned, the redevelopment of Howard Hamilton International Airport continues. We are currently midway through a procurement process to identify a preferred partner for the redevelopment via PPP,” Hawkins said.

“Final bids were received in December. The evaluation process is still ongoing, which is why we currently do not have a policy directive to assist with that. We will not know until an outcome is determined, which we hope will be soon.”

The delay in finalising the partnership has impacted budget planning and capital expenditure.

Hawkins acknowledged that the uncertainty surrounding the project has led to adjustments in the financial strategy.

Despite the ongoing PPP evaluation, the TCIAA is pressing ahead with immediate improvements to alleviate congestion.

“Nonetheless, we continue with our congestion alleviation project,”

Hawkins stated. “You will note that we have added a capital spend of $500,000 to continue with that project as an interim measure. This will allow us to provide additional boarding gates in the international departure lounge.”

He further elaborated on the temporary solutions in place.

“As the Permanent Secretary alluded to earlier, we successfully completed our upstairs expansion towards the end of last year.

“However, we still have some constraints with boarding, which make the outbound departure process challenging—particularly on Saturdays. By adding additional boarding gates, we hope to reduce delay times and facilitate a smoother transition for passengers moving from the terminal to the aircraft.”

The long-term vision for the airport remains tied to the outcome of the PPP evaluation.

A resolution on the project is eagerly awaited, as it will significantly impact the future of Howard Hamilton International Airport and its ability to handle growing passenger traffic.

In 2024, a number of companies were shortlisted and invited to submit their final bids to determine a preferred partner for the project, namely Manchester Airports Holdings Limited, Winward Management Ltd., BHM Construction International (UK) Ltd., Ferrovial Airports International SE, Projetech Construction Management and Services Ltd., Aecon International Construction Services Inc., Olympic Construction Ltd., VINCI Airports SAS, Regis Holdings S.A., HAB Limited, daa International Limited, Bouygues Bâtiment International, Grupo Aeroportuario

del Pacífico S.A.B. de C.V., and John Redmond Associates Ltd.

The selection of a preferred bidder will be based on a comprehensive evaluation of tender submissions, considering technical proposals, financial considerations, and adherence to project requirements.

The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is marketed as a premium Caribbean tourist destination, with

inbound traffic primarily composed of high-yield tourists from the United States.

The TCI also welcomes regularly scheduled flights from London, UK; Toronto, Canada; and the Caribbean region, and there is still room to increase its hotel offering density, the main driver for air traffic development.

Against this backdrop, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government

has stated that the redevelopment and modernisation of Howard Hamilton International Airport is a priority for the country and that it is committed to ensuring the project is completed on time and within budget.

The redevelopment project is expected to create significant economic benefits for the Turks and Caicos Islands, including job creation and increased tourism.

Grace Bay beach lands in top 10 of World’s 50 ...

you arrive—calm, welcoming, and genuinely unforgettable.”

But what exactly goes into the meticulous selection process for the World’s 50 Best Beaches?

The process is thorough and multi-layered, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.

According to the team at Worlds50beaches.com, “Each year, we reach out to thousands of the world’s most experienced travel professionals and ask them to vote for what they think is the

best beach on Earth.”

They clarify, “Voters are not given any specific criteria as to what makes a beach the best, but they are asked to describe why they think it is the best.” Each vote, they explain, “was accompanied by a compelling description, adding depth to the selection process and ensuring extra thought was put into the vote.”

The decision is not simply a tally of votes. “As many of the world’s best beaches are yet to be discovered, our final list is not based purely on votes cast,” the

team explains.

“The number of votes a beach receives is a contributing factor to its appearance on our list as well as its ranking.” Every beach must receive at least one vote to be considered.

Post-voting, “our team reviews each submission thoroughly and debates the merits of each beach that received a vote.”

They also collaborate with “esteemed Beach Ambassadors, a carefully chosen group of individuals renowned for their extensive travel experiences,

particularly to the world’s top beaches.”

Each ambassador can nominate three beaches, adding another layer of expert insight.

The final list is built upon specific criteria, including uniqueness of landscape, wildlife encounters, untouched natural state, the “soundtrack of nature,” ease of water entry, frequently calm waters, lack of overcrowding, and the frequency of “idyllic” beach days.

Special consideration is given to beaches personally visited by

a team member within the past two years, ensuring assessments are based on current conditions rather than past reputation.

This recognition is expected to further enhance the Turks and Caicos Islands’ status as a premier travel destination.

As travellers increasingly seek not just beauty but exceptional service and memorable seascapes, Grace Bay Beach stands as a shining beacon, inviting them to experience the best that nature and hospitality have to offer.

Howard Hamilton International Airport

Chief Executive Officer of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) Selvyn Philip Hawkins Jr, (centre) in the Appropriations Committee meeting on May 15, accompanied by TCIAA’s Executive Director for Administration, Finance and Innovation, and TCIAA’s Finance Manager

Airports Authority soars past revenue estimates, invests in workforce

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) has achieved a significant financial milestone, exceeding its 2024-2025 revenue estimates by 5%, bringing total earnings to approximately $68 million.

This financial success coincides with the authority’s commitment to substantial investment in employee training and development, marking a period of strategic growth and forward planning.

During a presentation before the Appropriations Committee on

Thursday, May 15, 2025, TCIAA’s Chief Executive Officer, Selvyn Philip Hawkins Jr., outlined the positive fiscal results.

“Notably, the authority exceeded its 2024-2025 revenue estimates by 5%,” Hawkins stated. “Our estimate was $64,000,387.03… and the unaudited actual was around $68 million.”

The authority’s financial growth is not an isolated occurrence.

Hawkins projected continued growth, though with a conservative approach given the current global economic climate.

“We project that in 2025-2026,

20-year-old stabs another woman during fight

A Dock Yard woman, 20, is in police custody after stabbing another woman in the arms during a verbal altercation that turned violent earlier this month.

According to authorities this week, the 20-year-old stabbed a 45-year-old woman in her upper arm and caused injury to her leg when a dispute between the two escalated and resulted in the wounding.

The incident reportedly occurred on May 6, near the Well on Silverado Road, South Dock, sometime around 10pm, when officers were called to the scene of the stabbing.

Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, along with emergency medical personnel, were immediately dispatched to the location. Upon arrival, they confirmed that the older woman had sustained stab wounds to her upper arm, and abrasions to her leg. She was transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre for treatment.

Following initial investigations and inquiries in the area, the 20-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the incident.

Police said their investigations are continuing.

we will earn revenue of about $70.5 million,” he said.

“We note that this is just a 3% increase from where we ended in 2024-2025, and we acknowledge that we have taken a cautious approach. Given the current unpredictability of global financial markets, we are confident that maintaining conservative projections is a sound decision for the upcoming fiscal year.”

This strategic caution reflects an understanding of global financial uncertainties, balancing optimism with prudence.

Beyond financial gains, the TCIAA is prioritising investment in human capital.

According to Hawkins, the authority spent more than half a million dollars on employee training in 2024-2025 and is launching an online learning platform in partnership with the Airports Council International.

“More than $500,000 was spent on employee training during the 2024-2025 fiscal year,” Hawkins disclosed. “I would note that this figure does not include the amount spent on travel and subsistence associated with overseas training.”

He expanded on the new learning platform, stating:

“Just before the end of the 2024-2025 fiscal year, the TCIAA launched its own online learning platform and resources, providing employees with convenient access to globally recognised courses, allowing them to enhance their skills and knowledge from home.”

Furthermore, the authority aims

Accused robber, kidnapper and drug user fined $750 for possession

Twenty-year-old accused robber and kidnapper, Watson Louidor has been fined $750 for drug possession as he awaits a court date on the more serious charges.

The Dock Yard man was charged on May 5 with the offences of robbery and kidnapping committed on April 9. Police alleged that Louidor robbed a victim of personal belongings before forcing them to drive to

a financial institution to withdraw cash. Police said the victim managed to escape before the transaction.

Following a targeted operation on April 29, officers from the Royal TCI Police Force’s Tactical Unit and Serious Crimes Unit arrested Louidor on suspicion of robbery and kidnapping.

Police said it was during a search of his person that a clear Ziploc bag containing

to increase training hours.

“With that, an estimated 4,420 training hours were logged during 2024-2025, and we are projecting intentional training totalling 5,500 hours for this fiscal year,” Hawkins added.

The TCIAA’s financial success, combined with significant investment in workforce

development, positions the organisation for sustained growth and improved operational efficiency.

As Hawkins emphasised, “391 dedicated men and women work at our airports every day… we are grateful for their efforts and for the contributions they bring to the table each day.”

Drunk driver crashes into gate, leaves passenger with cracked skull

A 45-year-old man is nursing serious injuries after sustaining a cracked skull among other head injuries when the driver of the vehicle he was travelling in crashed into Sun Oil Limited’s perimeter fence, among other things.

Reports from police are that the single-vehicle accident occurred last Saturday, May 10, at the junction of South Dock Road and Chalk Sound Drive, near the Chalk Sound Police Station.

Police said the vehicle was travelling south when it collided with the gate at Sun Oil Ltd, causing significant damage to

cannabis was discovered in his possession. He was arrested and taken into custody.

On April 30, Louidor was formally charged with possession of controlled drugs and appeared at the Magistrate’s Court on May 5, where he pleaded guilty.

He was fined $750 to be paid immediately. Failure to do so would result in him serving 60 days in prison at the Department of Rehabilitation in Grand Turk.

the perimeter fence, a directional sign, and the fire hydrant system’s piping.

As a result of the crash, the passenger sustained serious head injuries. He was transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and was subsequently airlifted abroad for advanced medical treatment.

The driver of the vehicle, a 32-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of driving with an alcohol concentration above the prescribed limit.

He remains in custody. At press time, there was no indication from police that he had been charged with an offence.

TCIAA’s Chief Executive Officer, Selvyn Philip Hawkins Jr

Myths and facts about diabetes What you need to know

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. However, many myths surround this condition, leading to misunderstandings and improper management. Below, we debunk some of the most common myths, supported by scientific evidence and current medical guidelines.

MYTH 1: “DIABETES IS CAUSED BY EATING TOO MUCH SUGAR.”

Fact: While excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks insulinproducing cells in the pancreas. It’s not caused by sugar intake or lifestyle.

MYTH 2: “ONLY PEOPLE WHO ARE OVERWEIGHT DEVELOP DIABETES.”

Fact: Being overweight is a risk factor for developing diabetes, but other risk factors such as how much physical activity you get, family history, ethnicity, and age also play a role. Unfortunately, many people think that weight is the only risk factor for type 2 diabetes, but many people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight.

MYTH 3: “PEOPLE WITH DIABETES CANNOT EAT

CARBOHYDRATES.”

Fact: Carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet, even for people with diabetes. What matters most is how much you eat and when you eat it to help keep your blood sugar steady. A good meal plan for diabetes should include lots of non-starchy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, bell peppers, and zucchini. These veggies are low in calories and carbs, but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It also helps to cut down on added sugar, choose whole grains instead of white bread or white rice, and eat fresh, unprocessed foods as much as possible.

MYTH 4: “IF I FEEL FINE, I DON’T NEED TO CONTROL MY SUGAR OR TAKE MY MEDICATION.”

Fact: Diabetes can be silent for long periods. A person might feel well while having high blood sugar levels, which can cause damage to vital organs over time. Regular monitoring and adhering to treatment, even in the absence of symptoms, is crucial to prevent long-term complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and neuropathy.

MYTH 5: “TYPE 2 DIABETES IS LESS SERIOUS THAN TYPE 1.”

Fact: Both type 1 and type 2

diabetes are serious chronic conditions. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that typically develops in childhood, while type 2 develops due to insulin resistance and is often linked to lifestyle factors. Regardless of the type, both require ongoing management to prevent complications.

MYTH 6: “IF YOU DON’T HAVE SYMPTOMS, YOU DON’T HAVE DIABETES.”

Fact: Diabetes can develop without any obvious symptoms such as very thirsty, needing to urine often, feeling very tired, blurry vision, especially in its early stages. Regular checkups are essential, particularly if you have risk factors like a family history of diabetes. Even without symptoms, high blood sugar can cause long-term damage to organs.

MYTH 7: “DIABETES CAN BE CURED BY DIETS OR MIRACLE PRODUCTS.”

Fact: No diet or product can cure diabetes. It is a chronic condition that requires continuous management. The most effective way to control diabetes is through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, if necessary, medication.

MYTH 8: “DIABETES IS CONTAGIOUS.”

Fact: Diabetes is not contagious. It cannot be passed from person to person like a cold or flu. It is a

Five Cays man charged with 2023 and 2024 murders, remanded

Thirty-year-old Rhashad

McKenzie, a resident of Five Cays, will call His Majesty’s Prison home for the foreseeable future, having been charged and remanded to prison in connection with Ervin Glinton and Guilene Jean Baptiste’s murders.

McKenzie appeared in the Magistrate’s Court last week Thursday, May 8, and was remanded to H.M. Prison pending a Sufficiency Hearing on July 4, in the Supreme Court.

Police said the accused was charged following consultation with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Glinton, 22, of Sand Bar Street, Five Cays, was fatally shot on January 24, 2024. At the time, officers had responded to reports of gunshots on Reece Street, Five Cays. Upon arrival, Glinton’s bullet-riddled body was discovered.

Baptiste, 26, of Dock Yard, was shot and killed on August 2, 2023, at the Seven Stars beach access in Grace Bay, Providenciales.

According to police, McKenzie conspired with others to kill Baptiste.

Last March 3, cops arrested George Thomas Arthur Jr. of Reece Street following a police

operation. Forty-eight-year-old Arthur, also called ‘Blocks’, is currently before the court charged with conspiracy to commit murder and two counts of possession of a firearm. He is alleged to have been one of several conspirators in Baptiste’s murder.

The Royal TCI Police Force has expressed gratitude to the public for their continued cooperation and assistance. “We have not forgotten the families who have lost loved ones. Rest assured, we will pursue all leads to bring closure and justice,” the Force said in a statement last week.

result of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

MYTH 9: “INSULIN IS DANGEROUS AND ADDICTIVE.”

Fact: Insulin is a life-saving hormone for regulating blood sugar in people with diabetes and is not addictive. In the early stages of type 2 diabetes, blood sugar can be managed with diet, exercise, and oral medications. However, as the disease progresses, the body produces less insulin, and oral medications may eventually be insufficient.

MYTH 10: “PEOPLE WITH DIABETES SHOULD AVOID ALL TYPES OF FRUIT.”

Fact: Fruits are an important part of a healthy diet, even for people with diabetes. Low and moderate glycemic index fruits, such as apples, berries, orange and citrus, are good choices. However, high-sugar fruits like bananas and grapes should be eaten in moderation.

CONCLUSION

Debunking myths about diabetes is vital to ensure proper understanding and management of the disease. Education, accurate information, and medical support are powerful tools in preventing and managing diabetes. If you have concerns or questions, always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

DR LENA SANCHEZ

GENERAL PHYSICIAN, ASSOCIATED MEDICAL PRACTICES

Dr Lena Sanchez is a General Practitioner and a graduate of the Universidad Tecnológica de Santiago (UTESA) in the Dominican Republic. She also holds diplomas in Nutrition and Diet Therapy, as well as in Diabetology and Obesity, awarded by the Central University of the East in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Murder accused, Rhashad McKenzie

Regional

BVI Governor denies ‘power grab’ allegations

Governor Daniel Pruce has rejected suggestions that the recent law enforcement review signals a “power grab” by the United Kingdom.

The governor faced questions from reporters following criticism by members of the House of Assembly, who claimed that the second volume of the Law Enforcement Review, published last month, granted the governor sweeping powers. Some members called the report a move to seize authority.

But Pruce said the report was not authored by him or the Governor’s Office, but by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

“This is a report conducted by an independent body… HMICFRS is not me. It doesn’t produce reports on my behalf,” he stated.

The report contains 375 recommendations, some suggesting structural reforms to local policing and security. Pruce said the report should be treated as a starting point for discussions.

“We are now… starting a process where, working together collaboratively across all partners, we set about assessing those recommendations and developing an approach,” he explained.

He stressed that implementing reforms effectively requires local ownership and joint action.

“My role is to submit… an accurate and factual and representative report… to enable [UK ministers] to make that judgment,” he stated, referring to the broader review of governance

reforms stemming from the 2022 Commission of Inquiry.

Pruce also credited much of the recent progress to a partnership between stakeholders and the government. “It’s clear to me that where we have been most successful in delivering recommendations, in making progress, has been in those areas where we have… been able to achieve a very deep level of collaboration and partnership across all partners involved.”

He cited joint efforts between his office and the Premier’s Office as making the biggest difference in driving reforms. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without that,” he asserted.

Asked directly whether he had recommended direct rule, Pruce responded, “That’s not the way the process is working… What they’ve required from me is… the report, which sets out where we are in this process.” (BVInews.com)

year

Eight hurricanes projected for the Atlantic this year

Forecasters are anticipating an above-average Atlantic hurricane season in 2025, with an early uptick in storm activity expected as early as July.

Colorado State University projects 17 named storms this year, including eight hurricanes, four of which could become major hurricanes. This marks a slight decrease from its 2024 forecast, which included 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes.

AccuWeather offers a similar outlook, predicting between 13 and 18 named storms, with seven to ten hurricanes and three to five becoming major hurricanes. In contrast, its 2024 forecast projected 20 to 25 named storms, eight to 12 hurricanes, and four to seven major hurricanes.

According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Atlantic basin experienced 18 named storms in 2024, including 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes.

In The Bahamas, acting Director of the Department of Meteorology

Jeffrey Simmons said that storm activity is expected to intensify earlier than in previous years, particularly during July and August. He attributed last year’s relatively delayed start to high concentrations of Saharan dust, which are not expected to pose the same issue this year.

Mr Simmons also noted a broader trend toward increasingly active hurricane seasons.

“We’ve been seeing that a lot, but the amount this year is lower than you know that prediction two three years ago, but we’re still above the average,” he said. “So you know that may excuse me in the next few years, when we reevaluate our averages, you can see average overall going up. That’s a possibility.”

Concerns over forecasting capabilities were raised following budget cuts to NOAA under the Trump administration. The cuts resulted in the loss of hundreds of staff members, mostly probationary employees, and raised alarms over potential impacts on weather forecasting, particularly during hurricane season.

Jamaica: 25-year-old charged in over $US600,000 bank fraud scheme

A 25-year-old businessman has been charged in connection with a sophisticated fraud scheme that defrauded a local commercial bank of over US$600,000 ($96 million).

Investigators allege that Jerhoden Hinds, operator of Original 24K Klothing Company Limited and his co-conspirators manipulated a Point of Sale (POS) terminal issued by the bank to conduct unauthorised offline transactions between November and December 2022.

By bypassing the bank’s real-time authorisation system, the scheme caused the bank to

unknowingly advance funds to Hinds’ bank account, which was quickly depleted via withdrawals and transfers, the Financial Investigations Division said in a statement.

The POS device in question was issued by the bank for legitimate business purposes — specifically, for processing customer debit and credit card payments while online, according to the FID.

The transactions were subsequently flagged as fraudulent by intermediary banks, resulting in chargebacks and losses to the local bank of approximately US$618,856.29 (J$99 million).

However, the accused and his accomplices intentionally placed the machine in offline mode to exploit the system and commit fraud, the investigators said.

What’s more, following the execution of a search warrant at Hinds’ St Catherine address on Monday by executed, investigators seized five cell phones belonging to the suspect, his spouse, and his brother. Two locked safes and cash totalling $1,967,350 were also confiscated.

That raid was conducted by members from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Constabulary Financial Unit

(CFU) and the Special Operations Unit of the Counter Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (CTOC).

Following his arrest on arrested on reasonable suspicion of breaches of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) and the Larceny Act and an interview conducted in the presence of his attorney, Hinds was formally charged with Simple Larceny; Conspiracy to Defraud; Possession of Criminal Property and Engaging in a Transaction Involving Criminal Property

Hinds was granted bail in the amount of $400,000 with one surety and is scheduled to appear

before the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on June 10, 2025. Principal Director of Financial Crimes Investigations, Keith Darien, emphasised the significance of this operation: “This case highlights the increasing complexity of financial crimes and the critical need for constant vigilance and interagency collaboration. Fraud not only undermines the financial system but also erodes public trust. The Financial Investigations Division and our partners in law enforcement remain committed to uncovering and dismantling these schemes.” (Loop News)

Governor Daniel Pruce

Colorado State University projects 17 named storms this

Regional News

US explores Latin American troop deployment to Haiti to fight gangs

The US is exploring a potential deployment of Latin American peacekeeping troops to Haiti, where a Kenyan-led international force has failed to halt a takeover by criminal gangs of key areas of the country, according to three people familiar with the situation.

Washington has suggested such a force would operate under the umbrella of the Organisation of American States to get around a long-standing Russian and Chinese veto on deploying UN blue berets, the people said, in what would be a significant departure from the OAS’s core mission.

An OAS force would be the latest attempt to counter gangs that hold most of Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince and threaten to seize the last few neighbourhoods to which the country’s interim government has retreated. A USfunded international force led by Kenyan police officers — the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) — arrived in Haiti in June last year but has proved insufficient against the heavily armed and well-organised gangs rampaging the poorest nation in the Americas. If Russia and China

Gangs have taken control of most of Haiti

again vetoed a UN mission, the Trump administration would try to use the OAS, a forum for political co-operation and promoting democracy and human rights, to organise a peacekeeping mission, said the people.

“The Trump administration is sceptical about the value of the OAS, so it is pressing them to put together a peacekeeping mission to Haiti which can take over from

Bahamas:

Minnis ‘consulting’

on future after being denied nomination

Former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said in a statement today he is consulting with constituents in Killarney and will “consider the road ahead” after being denied a nomination for the FNM in the next election.

Dr Minnis insists he is a member of the FNM but says he does not support the manner in which it was decided he would not be

the MSS,” said a Latin American adviser in Washington. “It wants OAS members in Latin America and the Caribbean to provide the troops, while the US will provide funding. It sees this as a way for the OAS to prove its value.” But a senior Latin American diplomat in Washington noted that the organisation had no mandate or budget to run peacekeeping operations.

“The OAS needs to be part of the solution in Haiti, not part of the problem,” he said. “And the US needs to assume the political cost of solving Haiti, just as it did when it sent in a peacekeeping mission in 2004.” During the Biden

administration, Washington sought support from regional partners to lead the MSS, but none volunteered. Instead, Kenya agreed to lead the operation in return for generous payments from the US, eventually sending 797 police officers, while El Salvador, Guatemala, Jamaica and Belize have contributed personnel.

A western diplomat said Washington may seek partners with the military strength and experience to join any new mission. These could include Brazil, which led a UN peacekeeping mission there from 2004 to 2017, and Colombia, whose armed forces have decades of experience fighting guerrilla rebels. Admiral Alvin Holsey, head of US Southern Command, which oversees US military operations in Central and South America and the Caribbean, met Colombian defence minister Pedro Sánchez this month. Colombia’s defence ministry said the US “expressed interest in advancing with Colombia on a multinational strategy to support Haiti”.

An official in Argentina’s government, a close ally of the Trump administration, said discussions were “completely informal and theoretical”, but the country would be willing to send troops for a potential OAS-led force if it were “well prepared and sophisticated”. Discussions were also under way about a UN-led mission, he added. Asked about an

OAS mission, a state department spokesperson said: “The US is not discussing the deployment of US troops to Haiti.

We continue to support the Kenyan-led MSS mission.” A Trump administration official said: “The United States is concerned about the situation in Haiti and will continue exploring a multitude of options with partners to bring the country out of chaos.” The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Meanwhile, a Haitian official questioned whether the US had sufficient “convening authority”, given tensions between the Trump administration and the rest of the world.

“It’s not clear to me that the US can pick up the phone and tell countries: ‘Look, I need you to do me a favour in Haiti’ and the countries would follow through,” he said. The security crisis in Haiti escalated following the assassination of president Jovenel Moïse in 2021. As the terms of elected officials expired, gangs filled the power vacuum. They now hold more than 85 per cent of Port-au-Prince, according to the UN, with more than 1mn people displaced across the country. The US on May 2 designated Viv Ansanm, the capital’s largest gang coalition, and Gran Grif, the biggest gang in Haiti’s agricultural heartland, as “foreign terrorist organisations”. (FT.com)

Twelve-year-old girl ordered back to The Bahamas by judge in Canada

An Ontario judge has ruled that a 12-year-old girl must be returned to The Bahamas under the Hague Convention, despite her recently granted refugee status in Canada, allegations of abuse and her mother’s contention that The Bahamas lacks adequate protections for domestic violence victims.

renominated by the party, saying it was an attempt to “forcibly end my service”.

Dr Minnis said if the party leadership “cannot uphold their own party’s constitution, how can they be entrusted to protect and administer the Constitution of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas?”

Dr Minnis served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021.

The child, referred to as “R” in court documents, was represented by Renatta Austin from Ontario’s Office of the Children’s Lawyer, who supported her wish to stay in Canada. R expressed fear of her father and a strong desire not to be separated from her mother and sister.

Justice Catherine Rhinelander acknowledged the child’s concerns but determined they did not meet the legal threshold to prevent her return. The judge found that neither the child’s fear nor her mother’s claims of a violent and neglectful environment were substantiated to the degree necessary under the Hague Convention.

The child’s father, Benson Beneby, denied the abuse allegations, pointing out they were never raised during previous family court proceedings in The Bahamas. His stance was reportedly supported by his adult daughter from the same relationship, who disputed a specific 2021 incident referenced by the mother.

Justice Rhinelander found much of the mother’s evidence to be inadmissible hearsay. He noted that Mr Beneby had no criminal record, had completed parenting courses, and had complied with Bahamian court orders.

The mother, Odaz Melody Gibbs, represented by Sophia Dales, Meghan De Snoo, and Alina Valachi, argued that The Bahamas lacks adequate protections for domestic abuse victims. Despite acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations, the court concluded they fell short of the grave risk or human rights violation required to halt the child’s return under

Articles 13(b), 13(2), and 20 of the Hague Convention.

Canadian immigration authorities recently granted refugee status to both the mother and child. However, Justice Rhinelander emphasised that this designation does not automatically prevent a return under international treaty obligations.

The judge issued a 14-day stay on the return order to allow for any potential appeals or jurisdictional coordination. If unchallenged, the child must return to The Bahamas by May 19.

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is a treaty designed to prevent parents from unilaterally relocating children across international borders in custody disputes. It requires the prompt return of children to their country of habitual residence when they are wrongfully removed or retained, allowing local courts to resolve custody matters. (Tribune242)

Dr Minnis served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021

Trump’s Syria announcement surprised his own sanctions officials

When President Donald Trump announced in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday that he would lift all sanctions on Syria, the decision, which will boost a country devastated by 13 years of war, took many in the region by surprise.

It also caught some in his own administration off guard.

In Washington, senior officials at the State Department and Treasury Department scrambled to understand how to cancel the sanctions, many of which have been in place for decades, according to four U.S. officials familiar with the matter.

The White House had issued no memorandum or directive to State or Treasury sanctions officials to prepare for the unwinding and didn’t alert them that the president’s announcement was imminent, one senior U.S. official told Reuters.

The sudden removal of the sanctions appeared to be a classic Trump move - a sudden decision, a dramatic announcement and a shock not just for allies but also some of the very officials who implement the policy change.

After the announcement, officials were confused about exactly how the administration would unwind the layers of sanctions, which ones were being eased and when the White House wanted to begin the process.

By the time Trump met interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday,

officials at State and Treasury were still unsure how to proceed, the senior official said.

“Everyone is trying to figure out how to implement it,” said one U.S. official in reference to the president’s announcement.

Following the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad late last year, officials from both State and Treasury had drafted memos and options papers to help guide the government on lifting Syria sanctions if and when the administration chose to do so.

But senior White House and national security officials, as well as some lawmakers on Capitol Hill, have for months debated whether to ease sanctions, given Sharaa’s former ties with al Qaeda. The Syrian leader severed ties with

the group in 2016.

Before Trump’s trip to Saudi Arabia, there was no clear indication – at least to the officials inside State and Treasury working on sanctions – that the president had made a decision, the senior U.S. official said.

The State Department and Treasury Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A White House official told Reuters that Turkey and Saudi Arabia had asked Trump to lift the sanctions and to meet with Sharaa.

In his announcement, Trump said that he did so to give Syria a chance at a better future.

COMPLICATED UNWINDING

Farage is running a cult, says ex-Reform MP Lowe

Former Reform UK MP Rupert

Lowe has accused Nigel Farage’s party of being “the cult of Nigel” and says he was the victim of a “political assassination attempt”.

Speaking to Victoria Derbyshire on BBC Newsnight, Lowe suggested his relationship with Reform UK changed when “Elon Musk came out and was complimentary about me and less complimentary about Nigel”.

The Great Yarmouth MP made the comments in his first broadcast interview since the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to press charges over threats he was alleged to have made.

Reform UK declined to comment on Lowe’s latest attack on Farage, who has previously dismissed the row as irrelevant to the continued advance of the party.

Sarah Pochin, who earlier this month won the Runcorn and

Helsby by-election for Reform, described herself as Lowe’s “replacement” on the party’s benches in Parliament and also played down the Lowe spat.

“I really think it is white noise around what is a huge, energetic movement now, Reform, coming across the country and coming for the other two parties,” she told the BBC.

Lowe was elected as a Reform MP in last year’s general election but was suspended by the party in March, amid claims of threats towards its chairman Zia Yusuf.

In his Newsnight interview, Lowe said of Farage’s “brutal” leadership style “If people become, if you like, too tall a poppy, he tends to lop off the head of the poppy”.

On Reform UK’s leadership, Lowe said Farage has “a team of what I call, very long-term

Trump’s decision may not have come completely out of the blue.

Senior Syrian officials were in Washington last month and lobbied hard to have all the sanctions removed, said Jonathan Schanzer, a former senior Treasury official who is now the executive director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who met with Syrian officials during their visit.

Nevertheless, the easing of sanctions on Syria does not appear to be imminent.

A White House readout of Trump’s meeting with the Syrian leader said the president asked Syria to adhere to several conditions in exchange for sanctions relief, including telling all foreign terrorists to leave Syria, deporting “Palestinian terrorists,” and helping the U.S. prevent the resurgence of ISIS.

Removing sanctions is rarely straightforward, often requiring close coordination between multiple different agencies and Congress.

But it is particularly challenging in Syria’s case, given the layers of measures cutting it off from the international banking system and barring many international imports.

The U.S. first put the country on its state sponsor of terror list in 1979 and since then has added additional sets of sanctions, including several rounds following the country’s 2011 uprising against

Assad.

Edward Fishman, a former U.S. official and the author of the book “Chokepoints,” said the unwinding of Syria sanctions, which were imposed under a mix of executive orders and statutes, could take months to ease. He noted, however, that the Treasury Department has practice from sanctions relief provided to Iran as part of the nuclear deal in 2015.

Complicating the task are sanctions imposed under the “Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act,” also known as the “Caesar Act,” which was passed in 2019 and extended late last year just after Syria’s government fell. The act imposed stiff sanctions not just on Assad’s government but also secondary sanctions on outside companies or governments that worked with it.

Overturning the bill would require congressional action, but it includes a provision allowing the president to suspend the sanctions for national security reasons. Trump could also issue a general license suspending some or all of the sanctions.

Fishman said he would be surprised if every single sanction was lifted as part of Trump’s order, adding that some specific people or entities in Syria sanctioned for specific behaviour-based reasons, such as support for a terrorist group, may not be removed from the sanctions list. (Reuters)

lightweight sort of servants, which is what you tend to find in a cult.”

The independent MP added that he didn’t think Farage is “fit to be leader”.

“I think he’s ultimately a very good, what I would call, ballroom entertainer. And he stands up and he entertains, and he’s extremely good at that.”

On Wednesday, Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS, said it made the decision not to press charges on Mr Lowe “following a thorough and detailed review of the evidence”.

Although the CPS statement does not name Lowe, the case relates to an incident at the Palace of Westminster in December 2024.

Lowe maintains that the claims made against him are untrue. “Why did they do it? I think it was a political assassination attempt.”

“I think Nigel is running a

Rupert Lowe

cult. That’s what I concluded, and I think it’s the cult of Nigel.

And anyone who basically has a different opinion, is effectively expunged from, being a threat to, to the cult.”

Lowe also revealed that his firearms were confiscated from his home by police, following his row with Reform.

“We had an unannounced visitation from four armed police officers in three cars”, he said.

“They came and they took all my guns away.”

Lowe declined to say if he would launch a new political party, suggesting instead that “the most powerful instrument for change probably would be reformed Tory party”.

“I could join the Tories tomorrow if I wanted to. I don’t have an issue with the Tories,” he added.

However, Lowe also suggested he would “make sure there’s an alternative” to the existing political offerings, adding “if people think I’m going to pack up my tent to leave the field, they’re very wrong.”

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa meets with U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and other officials in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

US Supreme Court hears arguments on Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship

US President Donald Trump took his bid to end birthright citizenship to the US Supreme Court on Thursday, in a case that could help further his agenda on immigration and other issues.

The case asks whether lower court judges should be able to block presidential orders for the entire country - as they have done in this case. The justices did not appear to reach a consensus as they considered both sides.

The US solicitor general argued that lower courts overstepped their authority, saying this power should be curtailed.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey solicitor general - arguing on behalf of a group of states - said siding with Trump would create a patchwork system of citizenship.

This would create “chaos on the ground”, argued the lawyer, Jeremy Feigenbaum.

It is not clear when the court will issue its decision. If it agrees with Trump, then he could continue his wide-ranging use of executive orders to make good on campaign promises without having to wait for congressional approval - with limited checks by the courts.

Justices across the ideological spectrum seemed to grapple with two issues during Thursday’s twohour hearing.

There was questioning of lower courts’ power to block a presidential order nationwide. And the justices also considered the merits of the birthright citizenship order itself - which critics argue violates the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution and Supreme Court precedent.

US Solicitor General D John Sauer, arguing on behalf of the Trump administration, said the

current system “required judges to make rushed, high-stakes, lowinformation decisions”.

Sauer proposed class-action lawsuits - which allow large numbers of plaintiffs to sue together - as one potential alternative. However, justices and Sauer’s opponents noted that this process was time-consuming and did not provide relief in emergency circumstances.

The justices grilled Sauer for over an hour, with liberal Justice Elena Kagan noting that the administration had lost on the birthright citizenship issue in every lower court. “Why would you ever take this case to us?” she asked.

Justice Samuel Alito, one of the court’s most prominent conservatives, appeared critical of the lower court’s power to issue nationwide injunctions.

“Sometimes they’re wrong,” he said, adding that some lower court judges were “vulnerable to an occupational disease, which is the disease of thinking that I am right, and I can do whatever I want.”

Feigenbaum, arguing on behalf of states alleging harm from the executive order, said siding with the Trump administration on this

matter would be impractical and unconstitutional.

Eliminating the option for nationwide injunctions could create a patchwork citizenship system, he argued, where an individual could have status in one state, but lose it when crossing into another.

Feigenbaum said this standard would have a harmful impact on distribution of government benefits like Medicaid, immigration enforcement, and maintaining accurate statistics.

“Since the 14th Amendment, our country has never allowed American citizenship to vary based on the state in which someone resides,” Feigenbaum said.

As the justices lobbed questions at the lawyers, a large group of protesters gathered outside to voice opposition to Trump’s immigration policies.

Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, the former speaker of the House of Representatives, joined the demonstrators outside and read from the US Constitution.

“This is about birthright, it’s about citizenship, it’s about due process,” she said.

It is unusual for the Supreme Court to hold a hearing in May,

Israel ramps up strikes in Gaza, killing dozens, as Trump floats ‘freedom zone’

The Israeli military intensified operations across Gaza Thursday, killing more than 100 people, and pledged to continue bombings as US President Donald Trump suggested establishing a “freedom zone” in the enclave.

Many of the casualties were in Jabalya in northern Gaza and in Khan Younis in the south, according to Gaza Civil Defense.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to eradicate Hamas with a strategy that would

see the military hold more territory in Gaza and push the entire civilian population into a smaller area in the south.

“There will be no in-and-out,” Netanyahu said earlier this month. “We’ll call up reserves to come, hold territory – we’re not going to enter and then exit the area, only to carry out raids afterward.”

The intensified Israeli attacks come amid what appears to be growing differences between the US and Israeli governments. President

and there is no indication of when it may rule. Trump appointed three of the nine justices on the conservative-majority court in his first term.

Many legal experts say the president does not have the power to end birthright citizenship because it is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. So, even if Trump wins the current case, he may still have to fight off other legal challenges.

Specifically, the 14th Amendment stipulates that “all persons born or naturalised in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens”.

In the executive order, Trump argued that the phrase “jurisdiction thereof” meant that automatic citizenship did not apply to the children of undocumented immigrants, or people in the country temporarily.

Federal justices in Maryland, Massachusetts and Washington, however, issued nationwide - or universal - injunctions that blocked the order from being enforced.

The injunctions, in turn, prompted the Trump administration to argue that the lower courts exceeded their powers.

“Universal injunctions have reached epidemic proportions since the start of the current administration,” the government said in a March court filing. “Members of this court have long recognised the need to settle the lawfulness of universal injunctions.”

Earlier this week, a justice department official told reporters that court injunctions “fundamentally thwart” Trump’s ability to carry out his policy agenda, and that the

administration sees this as a “direct attack” on the presidency.

The case being heard in the Supreme Court stems from three separate lawsuits, both from immigration advocates and 22 US states.

The Trump administration has asked the court to rule that the injunctions can only apply to those immigrants named in the case or to the plaintiff states - which would allow the government to at least partly carry out Trump’s order even as legal battles continue.

Nearly 40 different court injunctions have been filed since the beginning of the second Trump administration, according to the justice department.

In a separate case, two lower courts blocked the Trump administration from enforcing a military transgender ban, although the Supreme Court eventually intervened and allowed the policy to be enforced.

An end - even a partial one - of birthright citizenship could impact tens of thousands of children in the US, with one of the lawsuits arguing that it would “impose second-class status” on a generation of people who were born, and have only lived, in the US.

Alex Cuic, an immigration lawyer and professor at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, told the BBC that a potential end of birthright citizenship could force some of these children to become undocumented or even “stateless”.

“There’s no guarantee that the countries where their parents are from would take them back,” he said. “It would not even be clear where the government could deport them to.” (BBC)

Donald Trump said last week that he wants an end to the “brutal war” in Gaza and has skipped Israel in his Middle East tour. He also bypassed Israel twice this month in bilateral deals reached with regional militant groups. Hamas released an IsraeliAmerican hostage last week, and the Houthis agreed to stop firing at American ships in the Red Sea while pledging to continue fighting Israel.

On Wednesday, Trump denied that Israel was sidelined. “This is

good for Israel,” he said.

But on Thursday, he said he wanted the US to “take” Gaza and turn it into a “freedom zone.”

“I have concepts for Gaza that

I think are very good, make it a freedom zone, let the United States get involved and make it just a freedom zone,” Trump said in Qatar.

The Trump administration has asked the court to rule that the injunctions can only apply to those immigrants named in the case or to the plaintiff states

Women mourn for a loved one killed in Israeli strikes on Jabalya, at the Indonesian hospital in Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip on May 15, 2025

Project Construction Management & Services Ltd., wishes to recruit the following key staff to join its team. These opportunities have arisen due to a substantial increase in potential workload. We encourage Turks and Caicos Islanders to apply. In some instances, recent graduates with a strong drive to succeed may be considered. For each role remuneration and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Successful candidates must be prepared to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends.

PROJECT MANAGER

Preferred applicants should be able to demonstrate suitable experience as a Project Manager on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Construction Management.

A proven track record demonstrating the ability to complete projects on time, within budget, to a high standard of quality, and all within a demanding schedule must be shown. Strong leadership, communication and organization skills are essential, together with experience with very high quality finishings.

Experience with Construction Management Software packages such as UDA Construction Online, or similar, would be an advantage.

QUANTITY SURVEYOR

Preferred applicants should be able to demonstrate suitable experience as a Quantity Surveyor on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Quantity Surveying.

General duties will include preliminary budgeting, the preparation of detailed Bills of Quantities, project estimating, the procurement of materials, labour and subcontractors, financial forecasting, and reporting, managing all contractual and legal issues, and general commercial control in all aspects.

A proven track record demonstrating the ability to manage all commercial aspects of construction projects must be shown. Strong leadership, communication, organization and presentation skills are essential.

PROJECT SITE ENGINEER

Preferred applicants should be able to demonstrate suitable experience as a Project Site Engineer on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Construction Technology. A proven track record demonstrating the ability to complete projects on time, within budget, to a high standard

of quality, and all within a demanding schedule must be shown.

The main role of this position is to accurately provide line and level for the trades and the successful candidate must be fully conversant with setting out techniques using GPS, Total Station, Theodolite etc.

Strong leadership, communication and organization skills are essential, together with experience with very high quality finishings.

GENERAL FOREMAN

Preferred applicants should be able to demonstrate suitable experience as a General Foreman on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Construction Management.

A proven track record demonstrating the ability to complete projects on time, within budget, to a high standard of quality, and all within a demanding schedule must be shown.

Strong leadership, communication and organization skills are essential, together with an in-depth knowledge of construction trades and techniques using very high quality finishings.

ESTIMATOR

Applicants must be able to demonstrate suitable experience as an Estimator on large commercial and residential building projects, together with a suitable professional qualification in Construction Management.

A proven track record demonstrating the ability to complete estimates, including detailed quantity take-off’s and pricing, cost planning, cash flows, and general cost management of construction projects, to a high standard of quality, and all within a demanding schedule must be shown.

The main role of this position is the preparation of Bills of Quantities and Estimates both preconstruction and during construction to assist the project management team. Experience with modern construction management software, including Planswift and Construction Online would be an advantage. Strong leadership, communication and organization skills are essential.

Applications must be made in writing and should include career history and the names and contact details of at least two references. Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders should also submit copies of their application to the Labour Department. All applications will be properly reviewed and suitably qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

VILLA MANAGER

Location: Turks and Caicos Islands

Salary Package: $2,500 - $3,500 USD net salary plus additional benefits

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head Butler to oversee Food & Beverage, Guest Services, Housekeeping, Property Maintenance (ensuring that the villa and its grounds are immaculately maintained, and all systems are good working order), and Staff Management (Supervisor villa staff, including housekeeping, maintenance personnel, and groundskeepers) operations in a luxury property setting.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate schedules and duties to ensure efficient operation.

• Lead and train a diverse team of butlers and supervisors.

• Ensure a seamless, luxurious experience for guests from arrival to departure.

• Maintain proper inventory of food supplies, utensils, cutlery, and table linens.

• Communicate effectively with guests and staff, including knowledge of the chef’s menu.

• Maintain a polished, and professional appearance.

• Ensure confidentiality and honesty in all interactions.

• Perform any additional duties assigned by the Property Manager.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Significant successful experience working with VIPs as head butler, villa manager, or in luxury property management.

• Proven leadership skills and ability to manage a diverse team.

• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to interact with VIPs guests.

• Knowledge of luxury hospitality standards, budgeting, and expense management.

• Ability to live and work on the island for extended periods.

• Must be self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision.

• Certification in First Aid and CPR is required.

• Dependable transportation to and from work.

• Flexibility to work weekends and holidays.

• Must have a current TCI driver’s license

• Experience in understanding and helping to prepare menus

• Experience in preparing and training others to prepare cocktails

• A good knowledge of wines, spirits and other beverages.

• You must be fluent in English, other languages are appreciated

• You must extremely be flexible and reactive in conflict resolution and handling last-minute arrangement

• Excellent time management, strong multitasker, detailed and resultoriented person

• Very well organized with the ability to deal with pressure and time constraints

• You have a strong positive attitude, calm, pleasant, discreet, work of service, dynamic, and working efficiently under operational pressure

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The successful candidate will be professional, polished, and committed to providing thoughtful and caring service.

A leading property management firm specializing in luxury accommodations, is seeking a highly experienced 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:

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

• Address and resolving client concern promptly, ensuring satisfaction.

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

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

• Managing the procurement process, ensuring all necessary materials and equipment are bought in a timely manner and successfully delivered to individual houses

• Maintenance and Quality Assurance:

• Oversee the routine mainteance and repairs of buildings, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, utilities and other infrastructure.

• Ensure optimal functioning of buildings & infrastructure systems such as lightning, ventilation, security, pools, sewer systems, Reverse Osmosis plants and so forth.

• Monitor and track daily utilities and investigate any abnormalities.

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

• Conduct regular inspections to ensure adherence to luxury standards.

• Ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards.

• Address legal matters pertaining to property management activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Proven experience in luxury property management

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

• Technical Certifications will be a plus.

• Strong knowledge of property management software and CMMS.

• Ability to read & understand blueprints & basic drawings.

• Technically sound to understand various aspect of properties from buildings, Mechanical – Electrical – Plumbing (MEP), Heating Ventilation & Air conditioning Equipment (HVAC), wastewater management, landscaping and pest control.

• Computer literate but not limited to MS Office, MS power point, MS Excel and other MS software.

• Ability to generate and produce various reports using any MS software.

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

• Familiarity with

and regulatory requirements for property management.

CHEF

workstations.

LABOURER

HELPER

PHOTOGRAPHER

2

Install cabinets, bathroom vanities, mouldings and finishing work. $15 hourly (new application)

Mexican beauty influencer shot dead during TikTok livestream

A 23-year-old Mexican social media influencer has been shot dead while live streaming on TikTok, the state prosecutor’s office said.

Valeria Marquez was killed when a man entered her beauty salon in the city of Guadalajara “and apparently fired a gun at her”, according to the Jalisco state prosecutor’s office.

The motive for the fatal attack has not been identified but the case is being investigated as a femicide - when women and girls are killed because of their gender, the state prosecutor said.

Gender-based violence is highly common in Mexico where the UN reports 10 women or girls are murdered every day by partners or family members.

Moments before her death, Ms Marquez was sitting at a table holding a stuffed animal at her beauty salon in the suburb of Zapopan doing

NOTICE PUBLIC CONSULTATION

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) PUBLIC STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION – FOR CORAL GARDENS DUNE REPLENISHMENT – PR16651, 60812/57, PENNs ROAD, GRACE BAY, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

The Environmental Impact Assessment Report – for Coral Gardens Dune Replenishment – PR 16651, 60812/57, Penns Road, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands has been finalized and is available online for public review at: https://www.gov.tc/planning/pr-16651

Hard copies of the EIA Report are available at the Department of Planning Offices in Providenciales and Grand Turk.

The Environmental Impact Assessment Report was submitted in accordance with Section 44 (1) b of the Physical Planning Ordinance. Comments on the EIA report can be sent to the Department of Planning via email to planningconsultation@gov.tc or Environmental Compliance Manager, Garry Mclean- gmclean@gov.tc or in writing to the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, or at South Base, Grand Turk on or before Monday, June 09th,2025.

A Public Consultation on the EIA will be held on Thursday, May 29th ,2025 at 5:00p.m. – 6:30p.m. at the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. All interested persons are invited to attend to air their views, have their concerns addressed, and have their questions answered. This is your opportunity to add your voice to the discussion.

a livestream.

Seconds later, she is shot dead, with the footage only ending when another person picks up her phone to stop the recording.

Local media reports say she was killed by a man pretending to bring her a gift.

Police arrived at the scene around 18:30 local time (12:30 GMT) and confirmed Ms Marquez’s death, according to the state prosecutor.

The prosecutor’s office did not name a suspect.

Fans of Ms Marquez, whose social media following totalled nearly 200,000 across TikTok and Instagram, have reacted with horror to her death.

Mayor of Zapopan Juan José Frangie said his office had no record of Ms Marquez requesting help from the authorities due to threats against her, adding “a femicide is the worst thing”, according to news agency AFP.

The state prosecutor says forensic experts are investigating the shooting. (BBC)

Guyanese writer wins Commonwealth regional Short Story Prize

Guyanese writer Subraj Singh won the 2025 Commonwealth Short Story Prize for the Caribbean region.

Mr Singh’s story, Margot’s Run, was one of a record-breaking 8,000 entries submitted to the global competition.

The 32-year-old saw off strong competition from three other shortlisted writers, Joanne C. Hillhouse (Antigua and Barbuda), Kellie Magnus (Jamaica), and Jessie Mayers (Saint Lucia).

Other regional winners were selected from Africa, Asia, Canada/Europe, and the Australia/Pacific region.

A manuscript once considered an unofficial copy of Magna Carta is now believed to be a genuine version and ‘’one of the world’s most valuable documents’’, according to UK academics.

Harvard Law School paid $27.50 for it in 1946 and for years it has remained tucked away in its library, its true identity unknown.

But two medieval history professors have concluded it

is an extraordinarily rare and lost original Magna Carta from 1300, in the reign of King Edward I, that could be worth millions.

‘’This is a fantastic discovery,” said Prof David Carpenter from King’s College London, who began analysing it after seeing digitised images of it on the US university’s website.

“It is the last Magna Carta... [and it] deserves

celebration, not as some mere copy, stained and faded, but as an original of one?of the most significant documents in world constitutional history; a cornerstone of freedoms past, present and yet to be won.” He said he was “absolutely astonished” that not only had he discovered this authentic version, but that, over the years, no-one seemed to know what they had and that it had been sold “for peanuts”.

Subraj Singh

Valeria Marquez had a total of 200,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram

Harvard Law School paid just $27.50 for the document in 1946

Ventura is not letting victim shaming stop her from sharing her difficult story

There were moments when Cassie Ventura did not seem comfortable in the spotlight, perhaps because of what she now says was happening in the shadows.

The star witness against Sean “Diddy” Combs in his sextrafficking trial, Ventura will give voice to the disturbing abuse allegations against Combs, her exboyfriend and former producer.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to charges that include racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.

The woman who was often the quiet beauty on Combs’ arm at events for more than a decade has opened herself up to the judgment that comes for almost all women who accuse men, especially celebrities, of wrongdoing.

Nsenga K. Burton, a film producer, journalist and founder of “The Burton Wire,” told CNN the shame that surrounds accounts like Ventura’s - in which there are allegations of both domestic violence and sexual assault - is not unexpected.

“When we think about shame, shame is a tool, a weapon used against women who are involved in relationships with complicated men,” Burton said.

Ventura is at the heart of the criminal case against Combs.

In the government’s opening statement, Assistant US Attorney Emily Johnson described the alleged abuse and coercedparticipation Ventura experienced in choreographed - at times videotaped - sexual encounters with male escorts that Combs called “Freak Offs.”

“The defendant told Cassie that if she defied him again, he would publicly release the videos of her having sex with male escorts that he kept as blackmail,” Johnson said.

“Souvenirs of the most humiliating nights of her life.”

“He beat her when she didn’t answer the phone when he called. He beat her when she left a freak-off without his permission,” Johnson continued. “He beat her when he thought she took too long in the bathroom. The defendant taught Cassie that defying him could and often would end in violence. And when she tried to run away, he always found her.”

In her 2023 civil lawsuit against Combs, which was quickly settled without Combs admitting wrongdoing, Ventura painted a dark picture of a relationship that appeared golden in public.

Ventura, now 38, first met Combs, now 55, when she was a 19-year-old singer. Their long-term relationship played out, off and on, between 2007 and 2018.

Behind closed doors, she alleged, Combs controlled all aspects of her personal life, forced her to engage in sex acts with other men and “introduced” her to a lifestyle of “excessive alcohol and

substance abuse.”

When Ventura tried to end her relationship with Combs in 2018, she alleged that he forced his way into her home and raped her. Combs has denied her allegations. Ventura, according to her complaint, still suffers from “immense emotional distress” and at one point she checked into an inpatient rehabilitation centre after having suicidal thoughts she linked to abuse.

Collette Gee is a domestic and sexual assault survivor who uses her experience as a psychiatric nurse and certified violence prevention specialist in her work as an author and relationship coach.

She said Ventura finds herself in a situation familiar to many others who have accused someone they were in a relationship with of wrongdoing: public scrutiny.

“The first thing that we need to do is stop asking survivors why did you stay and start asking what made it impossible for her to safely leave that relationship,” Gee told CNN. “And that shift is, in my

opinion, long overdue especially when the [alleged] abuser holds wealth and power and influence like Diddy does.”

The attempts to discredit women like Ventura discount the reality of their lives, Gee said. Combs’ defense team on Monday described his relationship with Ventura as “mutually” violent and said all their sexual encounters were consensual.

“In an abusive relationship it’s critical that we understand that a victim defending themselves is not the same as two people being mutually violent,” Gee said. “Sometimes a victim may strike out in fear and desperation, but that doesn’t make the abuse equal.”

WOMEN AS PROPERTY

Burton pointed to a power imbalance with Combs and Ventura.

“Whenever you have these highprofile cases, especially involving celebrities who are not equally yoked, where one is definitely more powerful, like one’s a mogul

and the other is… there’s always shame brought on the other person,” Burton said.

“It’s this idea that, ‘Well, you benefited from your association with this person, right?’ Who is Cassie without Diddy. This is what people think,” Burton said. “But that also just plays into sexism. The idea that women who are attached to super rich, wealthy men are really just objects to be paid for.”

“It’s really because of the historic, power dynamics between men and women, and this idea that women truly are the property of men,” she added.

During a 2018 appearance on the “Ebro in the Morning” show, Ventura, wearing sunglasses indoors and speaking with raspy voice, said she was there to support a short film she had made about her music, specifically the song, “Love A Loser.”

“It’s just basically about a love story between a dysfunctional couple, which I’m sure we’re all familiar with,” she said at the time.

The topic of a possible marriage Combs also came up. She expressed both admiration for the institution and hesitancy to commit to it.

“For me, my lifestyle is so different than everyone else’s that I don’t know if marriage would be conducive to me sitting here with you right now and having my own stuff,” she said. “But I do believe in marriage. I do believe in love, whatever that is.”

Ventura married personal trainer and actor Alex Fine in 2019 and the couple is expecting their third child in a few weeks.

As she prepared to be called to the stand in the Combs case as early as Tuesday, Ventura’s attorney described her current state succinctly: “She’s very ready. She’s confident.” (CNN)

Rihanna may not have her ninth studio album ready to release quite yet, but she does have a new song coming out soon to tide everyone over.

The track, titled “Friend of Mine,” was featured on Wednesday for the first time in the new trailer for the “Smurfs” movie, in which Rihanna voices the role of Smurfette.

In the trailer, Rihanna is seen in the studio during the recording of the song, laughing and smiling while adjusting her headphones. The full track will be released

on Friday.

“Friend of Mine” is the first new song Rihanna has released since 2022, when she released “Lift Me Up,” the Oscar-nominated song featured in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”

The “Smurfs” movie follows Smurfette, who “leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save” Papa Smurf (John Goodman) after he was “mysteriously taken by evil wizards,” according to an official synopsis.

In addition to Rihanna and

Goodman, the “Smurfs” movie will feature a voice cast including James Corden, Nick Offerman, Dan Levy, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Hanna Waddingham and Kurt Russell, among others.

Supporters of the “Umbrella” singer have long waited for Rihanna – who is expecting her third child with partner A$AP Rocky – to release her hotly anticipated ninth studio album, which would mark her first full album since 2016’s “Anti.”

In February, Rihanna said she’s closer than ever to completing the task in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, claiming at the

time that she “just cracked the code on what I really want to do for my next body of work. I am actually feeling really good about this.”

Sean Combs and Cassie Ventura in 2018

Rihanna at the Rihanna x Fenty Hair Los Angeles Launch Party in Los Angeles in 2024

First-ever child safeguarding quiz strengthens awareness in the islands

BY OLIVIA ROSE

In a significant initiative to promote child protection, the Department of Social Development, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, hosted the first-ever Child Safeguarding Intergenerational Quiz on 8 May 2025 at Beaches Turks and Caicos. The event aimed to foster collective responsibility for the well-being of the islands’ children, bringing together students, educators, and professionals in a shared commitment to child welfare. Seven teams, each comprising one primary school student, one high school student, and two adults from various sectors, participated in the competition.

Teams such as Protectors United, Champions of Change, and Awareness Avengers brought enthusiasm and energy to the event. After multiple rounds of intense competition, Team Awareness

Avengers emerged victorious.

The winning team included Nurse Geraldine Gomez from the Department of Behavioural Health Services, Regena Little, Principal of the SNAP Centre, Eli Adams from Shining Stars Preparatory

School, and Jeffica Forbes from Clement Howell School. Their success in the preliminary, semifinal, and championship rounds set a high benchmark for future events.

Hope Defenders and Child

Rights Warriors, representing North and Middle Caicos, secured second and third place, respectively.

Director Forbes of the Department of Social Development and Welfare expressed her satisfaction with the

event’s success. “It is important to emphasise that child safeguarding awareness activities and training are ongoing efforts throughout the year. This commitment aligns with our mission to foster a zerotolerance approach to child abuse,” she stated.

She also announced plans to make the quiz an annual tradition, expanding participation to private schools, NGOs, and community members.

“As our commitment to strengthening families and protecting children continues, we look forward to broadening engagement in future editions,” Director Forbes added.

The Department of Social Development extended its gratitude to all participants, supporters, and stakeholders for their contributions to what it described as a landmark event in advancing child protection in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

(OLIVIA ROSE)

Participants at the Intergenerational Quiz

Students, teachers, and other attendees at the event

Minister of Home Affairs, Hon Shaun Malcolm, flanked by students who participated in the event (Photos: TCIG)

Winners at the Child Safeguarding Intergenerational Quiz competition

1 CLEANER 1 LABOURER

2 DOMESTIC WORKERS

WORKER STORE ATTENDANT

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

1 CLEANER

CLEANER

LABOURER

CLEANER

GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES

is looking to hire talented candidates to join our team!

HR MANAGER

• Lead HR operations, including recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations

• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures

• Support performance management and staff development

• Ensure compliance with labour laws and internal policies

• Championing a positive workplace culture and employee engagement initiatives

• Oversee benefits administration and leave tracking

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

• Proven experience as an HR Manager or similar role

• Strong knowledge of HR practices, employment law, and compliance

• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills

• Experience with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite

• A degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field (CIPD/SHRM a plus)

PURCHASING AND LOGISTICS REPRESENTATIVE

• Manage procurement of goods and services from local and international suppliers

• Track and coordinate shipments, deliveries, and inventory levels

• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery terms with vendors

• Maintain accurate records of purchases and logistics activities

• Ensure compliance with internal procedures and external regulations

• Collaborate with internal teams to forecast supply needs and avoid delays Requirements:

• Proven experience in purchasing, logistics, or supply chain management

• Strong negotiation and organizational skills

• Knowledge of import/export regulations and logistics documentation

• Knowledge of receiving and transfer of all bonded goods

• Knowledge of TCIG Customs Declarations

• Proficiency in MS Office software, with emphasis on Word, Excel, and Outlook

• High School Diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in the

CLEANER

CLEANER

LABOURER

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Resort + Villas is seeking a professional, courteous Bellman to join our team and deliver outstanding guest service. The ideal candidate will assist guests with luggage, provide directions and information, and ensure a warm, welcoming experience from arrival to departure.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Excellent communication and customer service skills

• Presentable appearance and positive attitude

• Ability to lift and carry luggage

• Previous hotel or hospitality experience preferred

• Flexible with shifts, including weekends and holidays Compensation: $8:00 per hour

INTERESTED APPLICANTS CAN CONTACT OUR HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9AM TO 5PM ON (649)941-7555 E-MAIL COVER LETTER OUTLINING YOUR INTEREST AND SUPPORTING EXPERIENCE ALONG WITH YOUR RESUME OR C.V. TO HR@WYMARA.COM Submission deadline date May 14th2025

PELICAN BAY

RESTAURANT & BAR

2 SERVER

• Minimum 2 years of food and beverage in a upscale restaurant

• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills, knowledgeable on Micros, must work well under pressure and have a friendly yet professional demeanor, must be a team player

Salary $8.00 per hour, Plus service charge and tips

2 BARTENDER

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a upscale restaurant. Must possess excellent verbal and communication skills, minimum 21 years of age

• Also have experience in stock taking and inventories must have good cashier skills, Be a team player.

Salary $8 per hour, Plus service charge and tips

1 KITCHEN HELPER

• Preparing the work Stations for the cooks, keeping kitchen clean and tidy at all times

• Receiving Stocks and putting away, must be able to lift 50lb

Salary $8 per hour, Plus service charge and tips

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

PROVIDENCE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

Accepting applications for

PRINCIPAL AND TEACHERS

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be trained in Primary Education and/or a specialist area with at least a Bachelor’s Degree must be able to diagnose various learning styles

• Must have a minimum of ten years’ experience working at the elementary level

• Must demonstrate the ability to work on their own initiative and also as a team player

• Must demonstrate best practices and implement various learning styles within the school

• Must be able to implement and demonstrate multiple intelligence strategies and create IEPs

• Must have the ability and experience to coordinate various school enrichment programs

• Have worked with an international curriculum and has experience with; The Primary National Curriculum in England, ABEKA and the TCI National Primary Curriculum

• Must be enthusiastic, energetic, approachable, creative, tech savvy and have excellent communication skills with a willingness to lead in a dynamic manner. Must create vibrant a learning environment and put in extra hours when necessary.

COMPENSATIONS:

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience at $23,000 to $36,000 per annum. Suitable applicants must submit resumes along with copies of qualifications and three character references.

This position is currently held by work permit holders. Belongers are welcome to apply.

Wymara

BARBER

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a degree in Psychology and Neuropsychology from an accredited University,

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a clinic, laboratories, university, hospital, mental health facilities, or research

• Minimum of 5 years as a fully registered clinical psychologist on a recognized Medical Board.

• Proficient with planning and performing psychological interventions.

MAIN DUTIES

• Knowledge of human behavior, performance; individual ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders,

• Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, and cultures and their history and origins

• Counsels’ clients and patients, individually and in group sessions,

• running cognitive tests of patients, evaluating patient needs and diagnosing and treating brain-based disorders

• Evaluates clients physical or mental condition based on review of client information and monitoring for safety in a restrictive environment

• Develops and implements treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge, Measuring the effectiveness of interventions and implementing changes where required

• Updating and maintaining patients EMR files, maintains confidentiality of records relating to client’s treatment

• Liaise with other healthcare professionals and hospitals

• Making assessments and interpretations based on biopsychosocial evaluations, psychometric tests, semi-structured interviews, therapy sessions, and neuropsychological assessments.

• Bi-lingual is preferred

LINE COOK

SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

Cook eggs and other breakfast items to order to the customer’s specification. Cook lunch and dinner items to order to customer’s specification to include, but not limited to:

• Cooking meats to temperature such as hamburgers and steaks

• Produce salads, sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, burritos, fajitas and other

• Tex - Mex items that appear on the menu at Somewhere Café and Lounge.

• Assist with prepping foods for service by following recipe standards, strong knife skills and

• proper sanitation to produce high quality food that accurately represents the Café.

• Work with other kitchen staff members to execute food, prioritize steps, and contribute to the overall team atmosphere of the kitchen.

• Participate in daily cleaning duties as scheduled by the Chef or Sous Chef’s to maintain a clean safe environment for all employees to work in.

• Cook on the line, during service in a high pressure environment, executing food to order in an ala minute kitchen according to the ticket in a timely manner.

• Be able to stand on ones feet for 8 hours and be comfortable lifting 25 pounds or more without physical restrictions.

• Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule.

Turks Islanders given preference

Pay - commensurate with experience

Position currently held by permit holder

Salary Commensurate with Experience. Approximately $70K annually

SEND CV, REFERENCES, RESIDENCY STATUS TO: TBAYLEY@ SOMEWHERECAFEANDLOUNGE.COM OR ISLAND APPLICANTS CAN DELIVER THEIR DOCUMENTS DIRECTLY TO THE RESTAURANT AT THE ADDRESS BELOW

This ad is for a permit application. Liquid Caicos Ltd t/a Somewhere Cafe & Lounge located at Coral Gardens

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are currently seeking an experienced Auto Mechanic to join our reputable automotive service team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining various types of vehicles.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform routine automotive maintenance tasks, including oil changes, tire rotations, filter replacements, and fluid checks.

• Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical issues on a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.

• Utilize diagnostic tools and equipment to identify and resolve complex vehicle problems efficiently.

• Conduct thorough inspections and provide accurate estimates for repair work.

• Complete all job orders and service documentation accurately and in a timely manner.

• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring all tools and equipment are properly stored.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 10 years of proven experience as an Auto Mechanic.

• Proficiency in computerized diagnostic tools and equipment.

• Strong knowledge of automotive repairs, maintenance, and systems.

• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

• Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment.

• Team-oriented attitude with strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Certifications are preferred and mandatory.

• High school diploma or equivalent. Technical or vocational training is a plus.

• This Position is for Renewal or first time

• Wages start at $750.00 per week.

HOUSEKEEPER

GEORGE GRAIG Five Cays 342-3111

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for our 2 children, feed them, bath, dress and monitor them, light housekeeping.

LORRAINE BORGELLA

Behind Mara, Blue Hills 242-4317

DOMESTIC WORKER

$8.00

Caring for my children, clean my home, wash dishes, clean the kitchen, bathroom, make beds, wash and cook.

ANNE ROSE DELHOMME & RONALD JOSPEH 342-0409

Five Cays, Sub Division

BABYSITTER

$8.00

Caring for our two children, bath, feed, monitor them and light housekeeping

VENARD ALCIN HANDFIELD 332-1466

Glass Shack

LABOURER

$8.00

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

J & V FASHION VARIETY

STORE

Blue Hills 246-2715

HELPER

$8.00

Cleaning the store, stock goods on shelves, help with unloading container

PARADA DOMINICAN RESTUARENT

The Bight 348-6766

KITCHEN HELPER

$8.00

preparing the workstation for the cook, sorting and distributing ingredients, keeping the kitchen clean

ABDONALD PIERRE 246-1963

WHEELAND

$8.00

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

GUILENE PERICLESS

342-0237

Blue Hills

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

M SEXY BEAUTY SALON

443-0186

Blue Hills

HAIRDRESSER

$8.00

Braiding men and women hair

SEM DESTIN

331-5436

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

VACANCIES

Setting up workstation with all ingredients, cooking equipment to use in cooking, , prepare food for the restaurant, prepare menu for private function and preparing food for private function.

WALKY GEDEON

/ Blue hills KITCHEN HELPER $8.00 sorting and distributing ingredients, washing, peeling, chopping vegetable, help prepare salads and desert and keeping the kitchen clean at all times. GEORGE GRAIG

Caring for our 2 children, feed them, bath, dress and monitor them, light housekeeping.

BOOKKEEPING CLERK

JAFOOE LTD

COMPUTER REPAIR TECHNICIAN

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field, Minimum of 5 HP Inc. University Certifications.

Work Experience: Not Less than 5 years industry experienced.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Working knowledge of modern networking devices, Wi-Fi Networks and printers

• Demonstrated ability to read and understand technical manuals and schematics

• Highly skilled in installing, repairing and troubleshooting computer hardware and peripheral including Windows-based PCs and Macintosh Apple platforms

• Proven ability to manage multiple troubleshooting tasks simultaneously while maintaining the quality of results

• Extensive experience in backup and image management software

• Expert user of Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access)

• Able to configure VPN and server/client-side hardware and software

• Proven record of managing time and priorities effectively

• HP Certified (Commercial Printing)

• Cisco Certified

• Work schedule 6 days a week

Salary payable based on qualifications and experience.

Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board. This is a renewal.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES – TO INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Managing the smooth running of the Property for the owner and occupants.

• Ensuring that all areas of the Property are cleaned and maintained to the highest standard.

• Maintaining inventories of pantry items, kitchen equipment and linens.

• Managing weekly meal preparation and grocery shopping.

• Carrying out regular checks on all equipment & furnishings, reporting any damage or breakage immediately to owner and following up on repairs.

• Sufficient accounting skills and computer proficiency.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Possess an exceptional eye for detail and standard with regards housekeeping service.

• Be able to work well under pressure.

• Be flexible in dealing with last minute requests.

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

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

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

The Risk Manager of IT & Specialized Assurance will understand our clients’ operations, their industry and the issues they face in order to provide risk and other advisory services. The combination of our specialist skills, industry expertise and on-going investment allows us to anticipate complex business problems for our clients and recommend preventative action. The incumbent will be responsible for a portfolio of clients on a day-to-day basis which will include planning, day-to-day management of the team including review of testing and reports, liaison with key client staff and the management of the reporting process. The incumbent will be expected to drive quality and client service excellence, actively develop and mentor their team and participate actively in business development opportunities.

WHAT WILL YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?

BIGBLUE COLLECTIVE SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Big Blue Collective is seeking a motived,

DUTIES FOR THIS POSITION WILL INCLUDE:

• Service and retail sales with the goal of growth to the overall business

• Answering phones/emails, making sales and reservations with solid knowledge of all products and services.

• Greeting and signing in guests in a professional, friendly manner with direction and information to keep the arrival flow seamless.

• Ensuring payments are collected, entering and balancing of daily income

• Working with the retail manager on designing custom items for sale.

• Must be willing to work long hours, weekends, holidays while remaining flexible

• Inventory and stock control with Quickbooks POS

• Possibility to fill in as an eco guide including snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding. Training provided.

THIS POSITION REQUIRES THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Mature, self motivated, outgoing, honest and energetic that has a passion for working with the public.

• Must be able to work weekdays, weekends and holidays.

• Must speak English, any other languages and asset

• Attention to detail is key

• Minimum high school graduate with strength in math and marketing

• 3 years sales and sales related marketing experience

• 3 years front desk/reception experience/retail sales management

• Education and experience in retail textile design,

• Experience with Quickbooks POS

• Experience in ordering, maintaining, designing and stocking retail

• Experience in promoting and marketing service and retail sales an asset

• Good understanding of the tourism industry and a passion for protecting the environment

As a manager you’ll manage a portfolio of clients to which you bring deep expertise to help them solve their complex risk management problems. You don’t just solve their problem, you get to the root of it. You take pride in leading a team through testing and reports, as well as liaising with key client staff and managing the reporting process. You play a pivotal role in helping organizations transform how they think about security. You help companies find balance between control and risk, maximizing their potential and agility. You enjoy motivating your team and seeking out new business.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree with strong academic credentials in Business/ Accounting, Computer Science, Engineering, Management Information Systems or Risk related field is strongly preferred

• Qualified in a minimum of one or more of the following designations: CIA, CISM, CISA, CISSP, CIIP/E, CIPM, CEH, and/or other related certifications

• 5+ years practical experience working in business or technology risk within a professional services firm or large scale business; 3+ years post qualification experience preferred

PREFERRED:

• Experience in a Professional services firm or large business.

The salary for this position will be based on qualifications and experience and will range from $65,000.00 - $70,000.00. Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders can also submit copies of their application to the Labour Department/TCI Work Permit Board. Position held by work permit holder.

2 FIBER TECHNICIANS

• Install and maintain

according to

• Perform low-loss fiber splicing and cable jointing.

• Perform preventative maintenance and ensure that proper standards are followed.

• $12.00 per hour

DOMESTIC WORKER LABOURER

GRADUATE TEACHERS

WAITRESS

•

• Must be willing to work weekends and public holidays

•

• Taking orders, picking up orders and taking order

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

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

Candidates must have at least five (5) years’ experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

This position requires someone with at least five (5) years’ experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

COURT REPORTER

College or high school graduate with at least five (5) years’ experience in community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset.

is commission based.

BABYSITTER

CAR WASH ATTENDANT

TIRE REPAIRMAN

DOMESTIC WORKER

LABOURER

Seeking an experienced captain with minimum 10 years experience operating marine vessels 40ft and over, Captain’s license and an in depth knowledge of TCI Waters. Excellent written and verbal skills with the ability to deliver a high level of customer service to guests, provide advice and assistance to guests prior to and following charter and resolve

Seeking experienced individuals for any issues that arise. Must have experience in maintenance and repairs for charter fleet, ensure vessels are clean and operational. Organisational skills are required for scheduling and maintaining records of all maintenance and service requirements for charter fleet. Salary up to $36,000 per annum, based on experience and qualifications.

INTERESTED TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDERS CAN ALSO SUBMIT COPIES OF THEIR APPLICATION TO THE TCI LABOUR DEPARTMENT.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REFERENCES SHOULD ACCOMPANY CV. APPLICANTS SHOULD APPLY IN WRITING BY MAY 30TH, 2025

VALUE FOR YOUR

ISLAND PHARMACY

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serves patients with kind and caring disposition

• Prepares medications

• Counsels and monitors patient drug therapies

• Gives pharmacological advice and information to patients and health care team via phone and in person

• Prepares medications by reviewing and interpreting physicians’ orders

• Detects and resolves therapeutic incompatibilities

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have certification from accredited university/institution and

valid professional licenses through valid and acceptable regulation authority

• Must have minimum 5 years’ experience working in a Retail Pharmacy environment

• Skilled at interacting with customers of all socioeconomic backgrounds

• Ability to operate Point-of-Sale and Kroll programs

• Possesses excellent communications and interpersonal skills

• Competent and reliable professional, committed and experienced

SALARY: 50K PER ANNUM

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND CARRY FIVE CAYS

S OUTH DOCK PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLAND Contact No: 1649-9418112

Is

STORE SUPERVISOR

• Candidate must have at least 6-8 years experience in the field

• Must have through knowledge of the following:

• Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most

• specifically,

• QuickBooks Pro 2020, Microsoft Excel, and Inventory control

• management.

• Extensive knowledge of SMS Front & amp; Back Office POS System

• Extensive knowledge of NCR 7456 POS

• Manage retail staff, including cashiers and people working on the

• floor.

• Ensure pricing is correct. Work on store displays.

• Coach, counsel, recruit, train, and discipline employees.

• Evaluate on-the-job performance.

• Identify current and future trends that appeal to consumers.

• Maintain inventory and ensure items are in stock.

• Keep up with fluctuating supply and demand.

• Maintain store cleanliness and health and safety measures.

• Organize and distribute staff schedules.

• Manage different departments within the store.

• Handle customer questions, complaints, and issues.

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

• Able to safely lift boxes

• Wages start at gross $600 weekly.

• This Position is for work permit renewal and for first time work permit application.

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 and maybe

• even cooking tips

• 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

BUTCHER(S)

• 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

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

BABYSITTER

BABYSITTER

CONSTRUCTION

2 BARMAIDS

CLEANER

DOMESTIC

(RENEWAL)

DRIVER MASON

DOMESTIC WORKER

Science & Technology

Scientists in a race to discover why our Universe exists

Inside a laboratory nestled above the mist of the forests of South Dakota, scientists are searching for the answer to one of science’s biggest questions: why does our Universe exist?

They are in a race for the answer with a separate team of Japanese scientists – who are several years ahead.

The current theory of how the Universe came into being can’t explain the existence of the planets, stars and galaxies we see around us. Both teams are building detectors that study a sub-atomic particle called a neutrino in the hope of finding answers.

The US-led international collaboration is hoping the answer lies deep underground, in the aptly named Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE).

The scientists will travel 1,500 metres below the surface into three vast underground caverns. Such is the scale that construction crews and their bulldozers seem like small plastic toys by comparison.

The science director of this facility, Dr Jaret Heise describes the giant caves as “cathedrals to science”.

Dr Heise has been involved the construction of these caverns at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) for nearly ten years. They seal DUNE off from the noise and radiation from the world above. Now, Dune is now ready for the next stage.

“We are poised to build the

detector that will change our understanding of the Universe with instruments that will be deployed by a collaboration of more than 1,400 scientists from 35 countries who are eager to answer the question of why we exist,” he says.

When the Universe was created two kinds of particles were created: matter – from which stars, planets and everything around us are made – and, in equal amounts, antimatter, matter’s exact opposite.

Theoretically the two should have cancelled each other out, leaving nothing but a big burst of energy. And yet, here we – as matter – are.

Scientists believe that the answer to understanding why matter won – and we exist – lies in studying

a particle called the neutrino and its antimatter opposite, the antineutrino.

They will be firing beams of both kinds of particles from deep underground in Illinois to the detectors at South Dakota, 800 miles away.

This is because as they travel, neutrinos and anti-neutrinos change ever so slightly.

The scientists want to find out whether those changes are different for the neutrinos and antineutrinos. If they are, it could lead them to the answer of why matter and anti-matter don’t cancel each other out.

Dune is an international collaboration, involving 1,400 scientists from thirty countries.

Decades-long mystery of ginger cats revealed

Garfield, Puss in Boots, Aristocats’ Toulouse – cultural icons maybe, ginger most certainly.

And now scientists across two continents have uncovered the DNA mystery that has given our furry friends, particularly males, their notable colour.

They discovered that ginger cats are missing a section of their genetic code, which means the cells responsible for their skin, eye and fur tone produce lighter colours.

The breakthrough has brought delight to the scientists but also the thousands of cat lovers that originally crowdfunded the research.

The scientists hope solving the puzzle could also help shed light

on whether orange coloured cats are at increased risk of certain health conditions.

It has been known for decades that it is genetics that gives orange tabby cats their distinctive colouring, but exactly where in the genetic code has evaded scientists till now.

Two teams of scientists at Kyushu University in Japan and Stanford University in the US have now revealed the mystery in simultaneous papers published on Thursday.

What the teams found was that in the cells responsible for giving a cat its skin, hair follicles and eyes their colour - melanocytesone gene, ARHGAP36, was much more active.

Genes are made up of pieces of DNA which give instructions to a cat’s cells, like other living creatures, on how to function.

By comparing the DNA from dozens of cats with and without orange fur they found that those with ginger colouring had a section of DNA code missing within this ARHGAP36 gene. Without this DNA the activity of the ARHGAP36 is not suppressed i.e. it is more active. The scientists believe that the gene instructs those melanocytes to produce lighter pigment.

GINGER CATS

MOSTLY MALE

For decades scientists have observed that cats with completely

be a bigger and better version of their existing neutrino detector, Super-K.

The Japanese-led team will be ready to turn on their neutrino beam in less than three years, several years earlier than the American project. Just like Dune, Hyper-K is an international collaboration. Dr Mark Scott of Imperial College, London believes his team is in pole position to make one of the biggest ever discoveries about the origin of the Universe.

“We switch on earlier and we have a larger detector, so we should have more sensitivity sooner than Dune,” he says.

Among them is Dr Kate Shaw from Sussex University, who told me that the discoveries in store will be “transformative” to our understanding of the Universe and humanity’s view of itself.

“It is really exciting that we are here now with the technology, with the engineering, with the computer software skills to really be able to attack these big questions,” she said.

Half a world away, Japanese scientists are using shining golden globes to search for the same answers. Gleaming in all its splendour it shines like a temple to science, mirroring the cathedral in South Dakota 6,000 miles (9,650 km) away. The scientists are building Hyper-K - which will

Having both experiments running together means that scientists will learn more than they would with just one, but, he says, “I would like to get there first!”

But Dr Linda Cremonesi, of Queen Mary University of London, who works for the DUNE project, says that getting there first may not give the Japaneseled team the full picture of what is really going on.

“There is an element of a race, but Hyper K does not have yet all of the ingredients that they need to understand if neutrinos and antineutrinos behave differently”. The race may be on, but the first results are only expected in a few years’ time. The question of just what happened at the beginning of time to bring us into existence remains a mystery – for now.

(BBC)

Scientists discovered that ginger cats are missing a section of their genetic code, which means the cells responsible for their skin, eye and fur tone produce lighter colours

ginger colouring are far more likely to be male. This tallies with the fact that the gene is carried on the X chromosome.

Chromosomes are larger sections of DNA, and male cats

like other mammals have an X and a Y chromosome, which carry different number of genes.

As it a gene only on the X

A vast cavern in South Dakota shielded from the outside world will house sensitive equipment to detect tiny changes in sub-atomic particles

Science & Technology

Trump signs executive order seeking to lower US drug costs by challenging prices in other countries

President Donald Trump signed a sweeping executive order Monday morning that promises to crack down on “unreasonable or discriminatory” practices by foreign countries that result in Americans paying far higher costs for prescription drugs.

“Starting today, the United States will no longer subsidize the health care of foreign countries, which is what we were doing,” Trump said before signing the executive order, which he claimed could lower drug prices by as much as 90%.

Also, drugmakers must start offering US patients the lowest price paid for a drug in a peer country, known as the “Most Favored Nation” price, or face consequences, the president said. He directed the Department of Health and Human Services to come up with price targets within 30 days.

“Big Pharma will either abide by this principle voluntarily or we will use the power of the federal government to ensure that we are paying the same price as other countries to accelerate these price restrictions and reductions,”

Trump said, although it’s unclear what authority he has to demand certain prices, particularly in the

Drugmakers must start offering US patients the lowest price paid for a drug in a peer country, known as the “Most Favored Nation” price, or face consequences

private market.

The executive order outlined some potential ramifications if manufacturers do not make significant progress in lowering prices, including directing HHS to craft a rule implementing the policy, allowing more drug importation into the US, reviewing drug exports, and having the Food and Drug Administration modify or revoke approvals granted for drugs that may be “unsafe, ineffective, or improperly marketed.”

Trump’s effort to establish a “Most Favored Nation” rule for certain drugs in Medicare during his first term was quickly blocked by federal courts for procedural reasons before being rescinded by

then-President Joe Biden in 2021. The new executive order goes far beyond that measure since it is not limited to Medicare nor to a certain number of drugs.

It’s also unclear what power the administration has to get involved in other countries’ drug price negotiations with US pharmaceutical companies, though Trump warned that nations that don’t lower their price demands could face higher tariffs. He particularly castigated the European Union for forcing drugmakers to provide their products at low prices, adding that in many ways, trade with Europe was “nastier” than with China.

“We’re going to tell those

Decades-long mystery of ginger ...

chromosome in this case controlling the pigment production then one missing piece of DNA is enough to turn a cat fully ginger.

In comparison female cats have two X chromosomes so the DNA needs to be missing in both chromosomes to increase lighter pigment production to the same extent - it means a mixed colouring is more likely.

“These ginger and black patches form because, early in development, one X chromosome in each cell is randomly switched off,” explains Prof Hiroyuki Sasaki, geneticist at Kyushu University.

“As cells divide, this creates areas with different active coat colour genes, resulting in distinct patches.”

Although couched in science, the study originally started off as a passion project for Professor Sasaki.

He had retired from his university post, but as a cat lover said he wanted to continue working to uncover the orange cat gene in the hope it could “contribute to the overcoming of cat diseases”.

He and his team raised 10.6m yen (£55,109) via crowdfunding for the research from thousands of fellow cat lovers across Japan and the world.

One contributor wrote: “We are siblings in the first and third grades of elementary school. We donated with our pocket money. Use it for research on calico cats.”

The ARHGAP36 gene is

countries like those represented by the European Union that game is up, sorry,” Trump said. “If they want to get cute, then they don’t have to sell cars into the United States anymore.”

The directive comes as the Trump administration is also looking to impose tariffs on pharmaceutical imports, which had been exempted from such levies enacted during the president’s first term. The tariffs could exacerbate shortages of certain drugs, particularly generic medicines, and eventually raise prices, experts have warned.

Drugmakers, however, did not seem rattled by the announcement, with their stock prices generally up in the early afternoon. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, the industry’s main trade association, praised Trump for coming down hard on other countries.

“The Administration is right to use trade negotiations to force foreign governments to pay their fair share for medicines. U.S. patients should not foot the bill for global innovation,” Stephen Ubl, PhRMA’s CEO, said in a statement.

But the industry also warned about instituting a “Most Favored Nation” policy in the US.

Andrew Mulcahy, health economist with the RAND Corp., a nonprofit research organization, questioned how policies tying drug prices in the US to those abroad would actually be designed and implemented, especially without Congress’ involvement.

“It’s much easier for the government to muck around in Medicare and Medicaid than in the commercial market or directly in the supply chain,” Mulcahy said, noting that most Americans have drug coverage through the commercial market.

WIDE-RANGING EXECUTIVE ORDER

also active in many other areas of the body including the brain and hormonal glands, and is considered important for development.

The researchers think it is possible that the DNA mutation in the gene could cause other changes in these parts of the body linked to health conditions or temperament.

The ARHGAP36 gene is found in humans and has been linked to skin cancer and hair loss.

“Many cat owners swear by the idea that different coat colours and patterns are linked with different personalities,” said Prof Sasaki.

“There’s no scientific evidence for this yet, but it’s an intriguing idea and one I’d love to explore further.” (BBC)

“Importing foreign prices from socialist countries would be a bad deal for American patients and workers,” Ubl said. “It would mean less treatments and cures and would jeopardize the hundreds of billions our member companies are planning to invest in America – threatening jobs, hurting our economy and making us more reliant on China for innovative medicines.”

Some industry analysts said the order was more bark than bite and was not as hard-hitting as some had feared.

“The announcement represents more of a headline risk vs. the industry sea change some had feared,” Evan Seigerman, a pharmaceutical analyst with BMO Capital Markets, wrote in a note to clients. “Overall, most-favorednation pricing could be more rhetoric than actual implementable policy.”

The legality of “Most Favored Nation” pricing negotiation is “cloudy,” and substantive longterm pricing reform would require an act of Congress, he wrote.

High drug prices are one of Americans’ biggest health care headaches. They have long paid much higher prices for many medications than patients in other countries, in large part because other governments often determine the cost. US prices across all drugs — both brand name and generics — were nearly 2.78 times as high as those in comparable countries in 2022, according to an HHS report last year. For brand drugs, the US prices were at least 3.22 times as high, even after adjusting for estimated rebates. Notably, though, generic drug prices in the US are only 84% of what they are in the other countries studied.

The executive order, which will likely be challenged in court, aims to reduce drug costs in multiple ways, some of which would get the federal government more involved in pricing. While US presidents and lawmakers have long decried that Americans pay higher drug prices than patients overseas, politicians have generally shied away from taking broad action in keeping with America’s free-market philosophy. This is particularly true for Republicans.

While Medicare gained the historic power to negotiate prices for a small number of drugs annually, Trump’s executive order will apply to a multitude of medications and to prices in the commercial market, as well as to Medicare and Medicaid. The president countered the idea that the directive amounted to “price controls” by telling reporters that the current system involves price controls because drug companies set the price. (CNN)

Science & Technology

Williams Syndrome: The people who are too friendly

People with Williams Syndrome treat strangers as their new best friends. Now the condition is giving clues to our evolutionary past – and what makes us human. Imagine walking down the street and feeling an overwhelming love and warmth for every single person that you met. That is a familiar experience for people with Williams Syndrome (WS), a rare genetic condition that effects approximately 1 in 7,500 individuals.

People with WS, often dubbed the ‘opposite of autism’, have an innate desire to hug and befriend total strangers. They are extremely affectionate, empathetic, talkative and gregarious. They treat everyone they meet as their new best friend, yet there is a downside to being so friendly. Individuals often struggle to retain close friendships and are prone to isolation and loneliness.

People with WS are also sometimes too open and trusting towards strangers, not realising when they are in danger, leaving them vulnerable to abuse and bullying.

“It’s very easy for someone to fool a person with Williams Syndrome and take advantage of them, because they are so trusting,” says Alysson Muotri, a professor of paediatrics and cellular and molecular medicine at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). “They give themselves to anybody without prejudice, which seems like a

lovely trait, but at the end of the day there is a reason why the human brain evolved to be a little bit suspicious of a new person. You don’t know if that person is there to hurt you or to love you, and they [a person with WS] cannot make that distinction,” he says.

Few people with WS live independently as adults, and many suffer from severe anxiety. There are also health problems that accompany the condition, such as cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. Many people with WS have a lower IQ than the average, for example.

Over the last decade, scientists have learned more about the condition, which is offering a unique window into how some of the traits that make us human – such as kindness, trust, and friendliness – evolved.

First off, some facts. Humans have 46 chromosomes, organised into 23 pairs. During sperm or egg development, a process called ‘recombination’ occurs where genetic material is swapped between matching pairs of chromosomes. However in WS, the process goes wrong, and a whole section of DNA from one copy of chromosome seven is accidentally deleted. As a result, people with WS are missing one copy of between 25-27 genes.

These genes serve various functions. For example one, ELN, codes for a protein called elastin,

which provides flexibility and elasticity to tissues throughout the body. A lack of elastin causes the artery walls to stiffen, leading to lifelong cardiovascular problems for people with Williams Syndrome.

Another gene, BAZ1B, affects the growth of what are known as neural-crest cells. These are stem cells which eventually form the basis of many tissues, including the bones and cartilage of the face. People with Williams Syndrome have distinct facial characteristics, such as a small, upturned nose, wide mouth, and small chin.

A SOCIAL GENE

Yet pinpointing the gene, or genes, responsible for the increased friendliness of people with WS has proved more elusive. One theory is that BAZ1B could have a role here too. Some neural-crest cells go on to form the adrenal glands, which, through their release of adrenaline are responsible for the fight or flight response. It’s feasible that people with fewer or impaired neural crest cells could produce less adrenaline. This, in turn, could make them less fearful of strangers.

Meanwhile, other scientists believe that a gene called GTF2I could be responsible. For example, research has shown that individual animals who lack GTF2I tend to be more social than other members of their species. Unpublished research suggests that fruit flies who don’t have the gene like to

Public Appeal

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is appealing to any member of public who may have any information on any crimes. They can contact Chalk Sound Police Station on 338-5901 or make use of the confidential reporting system through Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477.

theory about why

eat together. Mice without GTF2I are more likely to approach a second ‘stranger’ mouse. Dogs also contain a variant of the GTF2I gene thought to make it less effective, which could explain their overt sociability and friendliness compared to wolves. Meanwhile, people who have a duplication of the gene tend to develop a form of autism characterised by social phobia.

Nevertheless, the exact mechanism by which GTF2I controls sociability isn’t known. The protein GTF2I codes for is a transcription factor, meaning that it helps to regulate the expression of many other genes. One theory holds that the personality profile of WS individuals could be related to an impairment of myelin, the insulating layer or ‘sheath’ that wraps around nerves, especially those in the brain and spinal cord.

“Just like the electrical cable in your house, which is covered by a plastic insulation layer, myelin is crucial for the proper transmission of electrical signals from one neuron to another,” says Boaz Barak, an associate professor at Tel Aviv University in Israel.

Barak and colleagues recently showed that not only were mice bred to lack GTF2I more social, but that their neurons contained less myelin. Giving them a drug that improved myelination made their behaviour more like that of other mice.

As myelin dramatically speeds up the rate at which electrical signals can travel, one explanation is that the loss of myelin could lead to slower, sluggish nerve cells. This could explain some of the cognitive difficulties faced by people with Williams Syndrome, as well as the poor motor skills

reward

associated with the condition.

However, Barak believes it could also disrupt the communication between the amygdala, the tiny, walnut shaped region of the brain that processes fear and emotion, and the frontal cortex – a region responsible for decision making, personality, and emotions. This could explain why people with WS do not fear, or mistrust strangers.

“What we discovered is that when you don’t have GTF2I, the myelination process is impaired, leading to weak communication between the brain regions responsible for fear, and those in charge of social decision-making,” says Barak.

Intriguingly, a FDA approved drug called clemastine – commonly used to treat allergies – is known to improve myelination. As brain samples donated by people with Williams Syndrome also show impairments in myelination, Barak and his team plan to repurpose clemastine as a potential treatment for the condition. They are currently assessing its safety and effectiveness in a phase 1 clinical trial – the first stage of testing done on humans – due to complete in December 2025.

“Individuals with Williams Syndrome have amazing traits that neurotypical people could learn from, so their behaviour is not something that we need to correct necessarily,” says Barak. “We meet a lot of families and it is common to hear a parent saying, ‘I would never change how much love she gives to the world, or I adore how friendly and loving she is.’ However what we are trying to do is to develop treatments based on drugs that are already out there for those who want to use them,” he says. (BBC)

One

people with Williams Syndrome are so friendly is that they have more neural connections involving

Sports International

Mavericks secure No. 1 overall pick after winning 2025 NBA draft lottery

The Dallas Mavericks won the 2025 NBA draft lottery on Monday in Chicago, securing the coveted top overall pick and the right to possibly select Duke University star forward Cooper Flagg next month.

Dallas had just a 1.8% chance of receiving the first pick, the fourth lowest odds since the lottery started in 1985. This is the first time the Mavericks have won the lottery.

Dallas will have the opportunity to reset the franchise by adding Flagg after trading Luka Doncic in the middle of this season, which sparked a huge amount of backlash from their fanbase.

“It’s been a rough year as you all know,” Rolando Blackman, Mavericks ambassador and fourtime NBA All-Star, said in an ESPN interview after the lottery. “We’ll get a chance to move our franchise forward. … It’s really, really a great honour, and it’s an important piece of the puzzle because we want to hoop down in Dallas.”

Cooper Flagg is predicted to go as number one in the draft

Blackman said that Flagg “can hoop, he can play,” adding, “There’s a lot of great players in that draft class. … We will see how the guys get together and being able to make our team better which is exactly what we want to do.”

Premier League striker reportedly placed in an induced coma

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo

Awoniyi has reportedly been placed into an induced coma following “urgent” surgery for a serious abdominal injury suffered during a Premier League match over the weekend.

Awoniyi collided with the post during Forest’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City on Sunday but, despite being clearly hampered after the incident, remained on the pitch for the final 10 minutes of the game.

Forest said in a statement on Tuesday that the Nigerian striker was “recovering well” following surgery on a “serious abdominal injury.” British media, including the BBC and Sky Sports, reported that Awoniyi had been placed in an induced coma in hospital as part of the recovery process.

When reached by CNN, Nottingham Forest pointed to its Tuesday statement and declined to

comment further.

Awoniyi sustained his injury as he tried to connect with a cross from Anthony Elanga.

The 27-year-old stretched to make contact with the ball in an attempt to score, but in his efforts, collided with the frame of the goal; it later turned out that Elanga had been offside but the sideline official didn’t raise their flag until after Awoniyi had struck the post.

Awoniyi received lengthy treatment on the pitch afterwards but was deemed OK to continue – Forest made its final permitted substitution after Awoniyi signalled he was fit to remain playing –despite being in clear discomfort.

According to Forest’s Tuesday statement, the decision to allow Awoniyi to remain on the pitch after evaluation from medical staff is what sparked a heated discussion on the field between the club’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, and

Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.2 steals in 37 games for the Blue Devils, who lost in the men’s basketball Final Four to the University of Houston in the final minutes.

The first team All-American, who was in attendance at McCormick Place during the event, said it was an “incredible experience” and is something he has dreamed about since he was a child.

The lottery win offers a silver lining to what was a tumultuous season for the Mavericks.

notably, Kyrie Irving was lost for the season with a torn ACL in his knee and Anthony Davis – who the Mavericks received in exchange for Doncic – missed significant time with a strained adductor.

Dallas was still able to claw their way into the NBA’s play-in tournament, but were eliminated from postseason contention by the Memphis Grizzlies.

The Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards and Charlotte Hornets had the best odds at 14% of landing the No. 1 selection.

The 18-year-old Flagg cemented himself as one of the top players in college last season as a freshman.

Dallas stunned the NBA world when general manager Nico Harrison made the shocking decision to trade star player Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February. The blockbuster trade left Mavericks fans reeling after the sudden exit of their superstar.

The mood became even more bleak in Dallas after a rash of injuries hit several of the Mavs’ most important players. Most

On whether he thought he could possibly play in Dallas, Flagg said, “I didn’t try to think about it too much. I feel like it’s kind of out of my control. I’m just kind of going through the process like everybody else and just trying to enjoy every single moment because we only get to do this once.”

The San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers, Hornets and Jazz round out the top five picks in the upcoming draft.

The two-day, two-round draft will be held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on June 25-26. (CNN)

manager, Nuno Espírito Santo – an incident which had drawn criticism from pundits and social media –after the draw which left the club’s Champions League qualification hopes in the balance.

Espírito Santo said after the match that Marinakis was enquiring about the decision from the club’s medical staff to allow Awoniyi to continue rather than anything related to the performance of the team.

In Tuesday’s sternly-worded

statement, Forest dismissed comments that Marinakis had confronted Espírito Santo as “fake news.”

“The truth of the matter is there was no confrontation, with Nuno or with others, either on the pitch or inside the stadium,” Forest said. “There was only shared frustration between all of us that the medical team should never have allowed the player to continue.

“We urge former coaches and players, and other public figures

in the game, to resist the urge to rush to judgement and fake news online, especially when they do not have the full facts and context.”

Forest called the reaction to Marinakis and Espírito Santo’s onfield discussion “baseless and illinformed outrage for the purposes of personal social media traction.”

Since joining Forest from Union Berlin in Germany in 2022, Awoniyi has scored 17 goals in 73 Premier League appearances for the club. (CNN)

Taiwo Awoniyi sustained an injury after colliding with the post during the Premier League match against Leicester City

Sports International

Championship becomes Champ Rugby in overhaul

The Championship will be rebranded Champ Rugby from next season in an overhaul of English rugby union’s second tier.

It will feature 14 teams, with the division’s top six at the end of the season entering play-offs to decide the title.

The champions will then have the opportunity to earn promotion to the Premiership, via a play-off against the top tier’s bottom side.

There will be automatic relegation to third-tier National 1 for the 14th-placed Champ Rugby side.

The 12th and 13th-placed side will also meet in a one-off game, with the losers playing National 1’s runners-up, external for the final place in the second tier.

Richmond, National 1 champions in 2024-25, and Worcester, who have been resurrected after going bust in 2022, will join the league in 202526 to make it up to 14.

The announcement follows work done by the Tier 2 Board, chaired by Simon Gillham, who is vice-president of French Pro D2 side Brive.

Gillam stressed throughout the Champ Rugby launch briefing that

“aspiration and jeopardy” were at the centre of the new format.

The Rugby Football Union hopes that Champ Rugby will become a stronger piece of its player pathway, and help to develop the next Henry Pollock, who spent some of last season with Bedford Blues.

The league has new branding and a promotional video, external that comes with the strap line “Welcome to the proving ground”.

The play-off structures are similar but not identical to the movement between the Top 14 and Pro D2 leagues in France.

After 26 regular-season games,

the sides finishing in third to sixth will play quarter-finals. The winners of those games will go into semi-finals against the teams who finished first and second, before a final to crown a Champ Rugby winner.

With no automatic promotion spot, the winner will then enter a two-legged play-off against the Premiership’s bottom side if they meet the top flight’s minimum operating standards., external

There was no play-off to be promoted from this season’s 12-strong Championship after champions Ealing Trailfinders failed to meet the standards

Sir Chris Hoy says cancer in ‘stability period’

Sir Chris Hoy is appreciating life “more than ever” after being diagnosed with terminal cancer last year and says he has entered “a bit of a stability period” in his treatment.

The 49-year-old, a six-time Olympic cycling gold medallist, said in February 2024 that he was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.

In October, he announced his diagnosis was terminal after the primary cancer spread to his bones, with doctors giving him between two and four years to live.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hoy issued a positive update on his health: “I’m doing well. It feels like I’ve entered a bit of a stability stage at the moment and I’m feeling good.

“Most importantly, cancer’s not the first thing I think about when I go to bed at night. I think we’ve got into a rhythm now where it’s part of our life and we manage that and crack on.

“I feel good. I’m on constant medication, constant treatment, but it’s not interfering too much with

Six-time Olympic cycling champion Hoy announced last year that his cancer is terminal

my life, and the most important thing is it’s working, so I’m stable at the moment, everything’s good. Making hay while the sun shines.”

The Scot won his six Olympic golds - and one silver medalbetween 2000 and 2012, making him Britain’s second-most decorated Olympic athlete behind Sir Jason Kenny (seven golds).

He also claimed 11 World Championship golds and 34 World

required to be admitted to the top flight.

Sixth-placed Coventry also fell short, with Doncaster, who finished fifth, being the only club who would have been eligible to play off against Premiership bottom side Newcastle.

Discussions are under way for a title sponsor and there are plans to stream the league’s matches.

RFU funding for Champ Rugby and parachute payments for relegated sides from the Premiership are still to be confirmed, with no timeline given on when this will be decided.

The current Championship clubs saw their central funding cut from around £600,000 a year before the Covid-19 pandemic to about £160,000. This figure will remain

the same for the 2025-26 season. How the plans will work, with the Premiership currently looking at a franchise model, is unclear.

Nick Johnson, chief executive at Coventry, said closing the financial gap between Champ Rugby and the Premiership was “not a quick fix” but added: “We can sit back and whinge or we can get off our backsides and do something about it. That’s what we’re doing.”

“We’ve noticed a step change in how seriously PRL [Premiership Rugby] are taking us because we’ve got our act together and our house in order. We’ve just got to keep doing that.”

To help young players gain experience, Champ clubs will be permitted unlimited dual-registered players from Premiership sides.

Former South Africa winger Hendricks dies aged 37

Former South Africa international Cornal Hendricks has died aged 37 after suffering a heart attack.

Hendricks, who scored five tries in 12 appearances for the Springboks, died on Wednesday.

The winger made his Test debut for the Springboks against Wales in 2014, having also played sevens for his country.

Cup titles before retiring in 2013.

“I can’t believe the position I’m in now compared to 18 months ago. I never imagined I’d be able to get to this point where I’m actually living life,” he continued.

“And not just living life, but actually appreciating it more than ever. It’s not just about doing bucket-list stuff and doing massive things, it’s about appreciating the daily, mundane fun of life.” (BBC)

Hendricks was forced to retire from professional rugby 10 years ago after being diagnosed with a heart condition.

However, after receiving a second medical opinion, he returned to action with Pretoria-based Super Rugby side Bulls in 2019.

He represented South Africa in rugby sevens between 2011 and 2014, earning selection for the Blitzboks for the 2013 Rugby World Cup Sevens and winning a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

In total, he played 233 first-class matches in a career spanning 17 years.

Bulls rugby director Jack White said: “Many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short in 2015.

“When we had the opportunity to get him back on the park, he took that with open arms and made a remarkable use of his second lease in professional rugby.

“We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his team-mates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage. Rugby has lost one of the good ones.”

South African rugby president Mark Alexander added: “Cornal was one of those players who loved the game and he worked extremely hard, but he always did so with a smile on his face, treating all people with respect.

Cornal Hendricks won 12 Test caps for South Africa

The rebranded and expanded second tier will launch next season

Pacers eliminate top-seeded Cavaliers to advance to Eastern Conference Finals

The Indiana Pacers fought back from a 19-point, second-quarter deficit to eliminate the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers from the NBA playoffs and reach the Eastern Conference Finals for a second straight year.

Tyrese Haliburton, who struggled in Games 3 and 4, posted 31 points, six rebounds and eight assists to lead the Pacers to a 114105 win and secure the series 4-1.

“I’m certainly very excited for our fans, our ownership, our city,” Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle told reporters after the game. “Winning a closeout game on the road is extremely difficult.

“We were down 19 and Ty’s run of shot-making in the second quarter got us back into it.

“We just had a lot of guys that played extremely hard and we just said: ‘Hey, let’s hang in this thing, try to wear them down and see if we can outlast them,’ and essentially that’s what happened.”

The Cavaliers, who lost all three home games in this series, will

again be kicking themselves at giving up a big lead as they did in Games 1 and 2 in Cleveland.

The Cavs have been plagued by injuries this series, with Darius Garland missing the first two games and star guard Donovan Mitchell sitting the second half of Game 4.

Both were back for Tuesday’s

Game 5, but it made little difference. Garland was a nonfactor, scoring 11 points on 4-of16 shooting – including 0-of-6 from three – while Mitchell posted a game-high 35 points on an inefficient 8-of-25 shooting night. Mitchell did a lot of his damage from the free throw line; his 21 attempts from the charity stripe

were one fewer than the entire Pacers team.

When asked about Cleveland’s injuries impacting the series, Carlisle recalled someone recently telling him that “the winning team writes the script.”

“I have to give our guys credit, they earned this,” Carlisle said.

“This (Cleveland) is one of the best teams in the league, injuries, dings or no dings. They had a great year. I’m sorry their season had to end like this. They kind of had the perfect season, and we then came along and we’re hot at the right time.

“We’re talking about eight more wins for an NBA championship,” Carlisle added. “The league is wide open this year, there are a lot of great teams, but it’s wide open. We’ve just got to keep believing, we’ve got a great group of guys who have committed to one another.”

While the Pacers get ready to face either the New York Knicks or the Boston Celtics for another

shot at reaching the NBA Finals, the Cavs will be left to rue a lost season in which they emerged as the East’s best team over 82 games. It is only the fourth time in NBA history that a team with at least 64 wins in the regular season failed to advance past the second round, per ESPN.

“I just couldn’t believe it,” Mitchell said after the defeat. “Didn’t want to believe it. Don’t want to believe it. Still don’t want to believe it.

“I love playing in that f**king arena, man. That energy, that crowd. We were 0-3 at home, let the city down. This place is special. This place is really special and we didn’t get it done.

“Especially at home, that’s what hurts.”

The Knicks and Celtics play Game 5 in Massachusetts on Wednesday, with New York holding a 3-1 series lead and Boston missing star Jayson Tatum due to a torn Achilles tendon. (CNN)

Motorsport’s governing body dials back driver cursing penalties after major outcry

The FIA, motorsport’s world governing body, announced on Wednesday a major dialing back of the penalties issued to drivers for cursing after a groundswell of opposition towards the new regulations.

In rules introduced by the FIA ahead of the season, F1 drivers could be penalised – with monetary fines or loss of championship points – for cursing in press conferences.

Fines started at €40,000 ($41,600) for a driver’s first offense, with it doubling for a second breach of the rules as well as a suspended one-month ban. A third offense would potentially bring about a €120,000 ($125,000) fine, a one-month ban and the loss of championship points.

But the FIA scaled back those regulations on Wednesday after continued complaints from highlevel F1 drivers.

Following the amendment of Appendix B in FIA International Sporting Code, the base maximum penalties for drivers will be reduced generally from €10,000 ($11,210)

The FIA, motorsport’s world governing body, has announced it is reducing the penalties issued to drivers for cursing

to €5,000 ($5,600) – a reduction of 50% – although “for FIA World Championships, where multipliers were involved, the reductions will be even more significant,” the governing body said.

The FIA also said that stewards can suspend a penalty in certain cases if it’s a first offense by a driver or team. Stewards will also be permitted to adjudge whether language was used in “controlled” or “uncontrolled” environments to assess whether a penalty is deemed necessary – a “controlled”

environment is defined as a press conferences and an “uncontrolled” environment is a “spontaneous comments made by drivers or teams when on track or during a rally stage.”

The new guidelines also state that “abuse of officials will now result in sporting penalties rather than fines, aligning motor sport with other major global sports organisations.”

“As a former rally driver, I know firsthand the range of emotions that are faced during

competition. I have led an extensive and collaborative review with contributions from across the seven FIA World Championships, FIA Member Clubs and other motor sports organizations,”

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said.

“The improvements the FIA has announced today to Appendix B will ensure we continue to promote the best of sportsmanship in motor sport, while also giving Stewards effective guidelines to act against individuals who may bring the

sport into disrepute. The FIA will always be committed to ensuring motor sport is accessible for all our sporting family.”

The original penalties implemented before this season were criticized by many F1 drivers who thought they were excessive. Drivers, including reigning world champion Max Verstappen, also complained about the lack of dialogue between them and the FIA around addressing any issues.

Ronan Morgan, president of the drivers’ committee, said that the changing of the rules around cursing “further strengthen the FIA’s International Sporting Code supporting our drivers by understanding the pressures they face during the heat of competition.”

“Drivers are looked up to as role models by young fans and are rightly seen as ambassadors for the wider world of motor sport, how they act really does matter but it is important to recognize that there is a difference between what is said during a race and in a press conference,” Morgan said. (CNN)

The Pacers reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the second straight year

Supporting our athletes, building pathways: Creating a sustainable future for TCI athletes

BY DIRECTOR OF SPORTS, JARRETT FORBES

First, I would like to sincerely thank Mr Drexwell Seymour for his passion and advocacy for youth and sports development in the Turks and Caicos Islands. His article, “We Must Prepare Our Athletes Better So They Can Perform Better,” raises important points that deserve thoughtful reflection and action.

We all share a common goal: to see our athletes excel, to build national pride, and to use sports as a vehicle for uniting our people and inspiring future generations. I welcome this opportunity to provide further context about the work underway, the vision guiding us, and the realities we must confront as a nation of our size and stage of development.

CURRENT SPORT LANDSCAPE

Over the past few years, the TCI Sports Commission has worked to lay a solid foundation for the future, including:

1. Structured competition through the TCI School Sports Program (TCISS) across multiple disciplines and other youth initiatives like the Police Action League (PAL)

2. Launch of the Sports Performance Centre, providing athletes with access to strength and conditioning, performance monitoring, and injury prevention services.

3. Implementation of the LongTerm Athlete Development (LTAD) Framework, a sciencebased, age-appropriate model for athlete progression.

4. Establishment of the Athlete Development Fund (ADF) and other grant programmes to support athletes committed to long-term development pathways.

5. Creation of the National Athlete Database, tracking athletic growth and readiness over time.

6. 61 athletes have received athlete assistance grants or Athlete Development Funding in the last financial year

7. Over 13 million dollars have been invested in sports and recreational facilities

Director of Sports, Mr Jarrett Forbes

development and refurbishment over the last five years

These initiatives are essential building blocks, ensuring that our athletes have the systems they need to eventually succeed consistently at the regional and international levels.

THE UNIQUE REALITIES WE MUST NAVIGATE

It is important to highlight the realities that shape our journey, not as excuses, but as context:

1. We are a nation of approximately 50,000 people, with around 15,000 Turks and Caicos Islanders eligible for national representation. That’s roughly 800 to 1,500 individuals (ages 14-28) interested in playing competitive sports.

2. We compete against countries with vastly larger populations, including Jamaica (approx. 3 million), Trinidad and Tobago (approx. 1.3 million), Dominican Republic (over 11 million), Bahamas (over 400,000), Barbados (over 250,000), and others. This difference means organic talent emergence is less likely for TCI. Growth must be intentional, strategic, and heavily supported from the grassroots up.

Historically, our successes often came from athletes who were developed externally; in Jamaica, the U.S., or elsewhere and who were able to access larger highperformance ecosystems.

TODAY, WE STAND AT A CRITICAL JUNCTION:

We must build a domestic highperformance environment that can nurture athletes residing here in TCI; giving them the tools to develop at home and succeed internationally.

We fully recognise several areas that must be strengthened and acknowledge our current gaps: Specialist Coaching; Competition Exposure; Early Talent Identification; Athlete Support Services; and Strategic Planning and Monitoring

These are not new realisations, they are part of the Commission’s ongoing strategic agenda; but sustained progress requires time, partnerships, and continued investment.

As much as we desire immediate medals and podium finishes, true success (the kind that becomes sustainable and reliable) requires long-term, generational investment.

Countries that dominate

CARIFTA today spent decades building systems, facilities, coach development programs, and competitions before seeing consistent results.

We must be patient and persistent. We are building a sports system for the future, not just for a single season. And while we build and aim for international excellence, we must balance Sport for Development and High Performance. It is important to understand that the Sports Commission operates under a dual mandate:

1. Sport for Development – using sports as a tool to build healthier communities, engage youth, reduce crime, and foster national pride.

2. High Performance – identifying, preparing, and supporting athletes to excel at regional and international competitions. This balanced approach ensures that while we aim for international excellence, we are also expanding the base of participation, offering hope and opportunity to all.

Our youth population is small, and the pathway to consistent international medals requires nurturing talent from a very young age, building competition readiness over time, and surrounding athletes

with a full ecosystem of support.

CONCLUSION

Mr. Seymour’s call for collaboration is timely. The Sports Commission is committed to working alongside national federations, athletes, private sector partners, parents, and the entire community to drive excellence.

In recent days, some have expressed disappointment, and while setting higher standards for national representation is important and necessary, it is equally important to recognize that standards without pathways are a setup for failure.

If we want our athletes to meet higher standards, we must build structured, intentional pathways to prepare them.

Without development systems, competition exposure, coaching, and performance support, it is unrealistic and unfair to expect athletes to excel at the highest levels.

We must be careful not to place blame on the very young people we are trying to inspire. Their presence at the recent CARIFTA was not a failure; it was a necessary step in the journey. Showing up matters. Growth takes time.

The responsibility for raising standards and ensuring athletes can meet them rests with all of us: administrators, coaches, national federations, government, private sector, and the wider community. We are not simply preparing athletes for a single event. We are building a sustainable system of excellence that will serve the Turks and Caicos Islands for generations to come.

We are immensely proud of every athlete who showed up and competed under the Turks and Caicos Islands flag and we honour all who do so in all our various sport disciplines. Their commitment, their courage to step onto the regional and international stage, and their willingness to represent their country deserve acknowledgment, respect and most importantly support.

If we stay committed, collaborative, and focused, the future of sports in TCI will be bright, resilient, and full of champions.

Sports National

Salt Rakers Aquatic Club launches first-ever Corporate Open Water competition

The Salt Rakers Aquatic Club is introducing a new competitive event to the Turks and Caicos sporting calendar—the firstever Corporate Open Water Competition, set to take place on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Rickie’s Flamingo Café, Grace Bay Beach.

Designed to bring businesses together through sport, the competition invites companies to field their best swimmers in a contest for corporate bragging rights. Organisations such as Beaches, Ocean Club, Fortis, and Projetech have already signed up, with teams preparing to battle for the title of Turks and Caicos’ Champion Swimming Company.

Each company may register up to four swimmers to compete across three race distances: a 2K, a 1K, and a 100m sprint. The format ensures that every competitor plays a crucial role

Salt Rakers Aquatic Club continues to lead the swimming charge in the TCI

in securing victory—first-place finishes earn top points for their team, with medals awarded to the leading three teams and certificates presented to all entrants.

Participation is free, and businesses from across the islands are encouraged to take part, whether their teams consist of seasoned swimmers or enthusiastic newcomers.

Hall-Worme named new TCIFA General Secretary

Tamara Hall-Worme has been appointed General Secretary of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA), succeeding Oliver Smith, K.C., who stepped down after eight years in the role.

Hall-Worme brings extensive experience in football administration, having been involved in the sport since 2011.

A former player in the Women’s Football League, she transitioned into leadership roles, including managing the Men’s National Beach Soccer team in multiple international competitions and officiating matches as a FIFA/ Concacaf Match Commissioner and Match Coordinator. She was most recently a member of the TCIFA Council.

“I am honoured to take on this role and look forward to contributing to the continued growth of football in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” Hall-Worme said. Smith’s tenure saw significant advancements in youth football, infrastructure, and the hosting of international tournaments that raised the islands’ profile. TCIFA President Sonia Fulford

Smith reappointed to FIFA Appeals Committee

Oliver Smith, KC, has been reappointed to the FIFA Appeals Committee for another four-year term following a successful vote at the 75th FIFA Congress.

Smith, a highly regarded legal professional, has been a key figure on the committee, which reviews appeals related to FIFA’s Disciplinary and Ethics Committees. His reappointment reflects FIFA’s continued trust in his ability to uphold integrity and transparency within the organisation.

“The Appeals Committee plays a vital role in ensuring fairness in the sport, and I am honoured to continue serving in this capacity,” Smith said.

Smith is expected to continue applying his legal expertise within FIFA’s judicial processes during

his new term. He recently stepped down as General Secretary of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association after eight years in the role.

Omar’s CC defeat Beaches in latest T20 cricket clash

acknowledged his contributions and welcomed Hall-Worme’s leadership.

“Mrs Hall-Worme’s experience and commitment to the sport make her well-suited to lead the organisation forward,” Fulford said. “We thank Mr Smith for his years of service and look forward to continuing our mission of football development under new leadership.”

Omar’s Cricket Club defeated Beaches by three wickets when action in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association (TCICA) T20 cricket competition continued last weekend at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales.

Beaches won the toss and opted to bat first. Anthony McKnight led the charge with a calculated innings of 36, as he fended off the good balls, before playing a few shots (6x4s).

A few other batsmen got starts, but except for Claude Williams with 23 (3x4s, 1x6) and Michael Wong (17 not out), none of them played a match-winning innings as the side settled for 154 before they were bowled out in 19 overs.

Robert Johnson led the attack with 3-23 from four overs, while Dane Ritchie, supported with 2-29 from two overs.

In reply, Omar’s were in early trouble, losing two quick wickets, but captain Garrett Campbell came to the crease and stabilised the run chase.

The skipper and opener D.

Garrett Campbell finished with the man-of-the-match award

Hardware added 39 for the third wicket, with Campbell leading the charge. He struck six fours and a six in his top score of 46, while Hardware added a patient 24 (3x4s).

After Hardware fell, Marlon Turner came to the crease and also played a few shots. His 27 unbeaten runs, which were punctuated with two fours and two sixes, ensured that the side reached their target in 18.3 overs.

Opening bowlers Jerome Daley and Kenneth Lewis led the bowling attack with 2-21 and 2-29 respectively.

Tamara Hall-Worme

Oliver Smith