Turks and Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 08 | March 2 - 8, 2013

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FOR TCI

THERE will be no Value Added Tax (VAT) for the Turks and Caicos Islands – a win, according to Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, for the nation’s people. PAGE  5

Candidates nominated for byelections TWO candidates fielded by the two major political parties were nominated on Friday for the upcoming by-election.

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Unsigned Repeal Bill presents a real threat, Ewing PAGE 

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Arrest warrant out for head of local oncology programme

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Several former civil servants interested in returning, Deputy Governor PAGE 

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Unsigned Repeal Bill presents a real threat, Ewing

BY VANESSA NARINE PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, in a February 28 letter to Minister Mark Simmonds, made it clear the unsigned Repeal Bill presents a real threat.

The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the Foreign Office (FCO), in a letter dated February 25, said he will instruct Governor Ric Todd not give his assent to the Private Member’s Bill to repeal VAT, but rather instruct him not to sign the Commencement Notice, which would have brought in VAT on April 1, 2013.

Ewing said: “Unless the Bill is assented to, the people of these Islands will continue to question Her Majesty’s Government’s commitment to the ideals of democracy in the Turks and Caicos Islands. That will not augur well for the partnership that we are desirous of building.

“The Government will likewise have legitimate reason to believe that there is not a genuine intention on the part of Her Majesty’s Government to allow the TCI Government to move forward unimpeded.

“There will always be the real threat that the VAT can be implemented by the stroke of a pen without the need for further debate.

I am firm in my conviction that on the question of VAT the only fair solution is for the Ordinance to be repealed thus removing once and for all the possibility of taxation without representation.

“I hope that you will give this course further consideration.”

NOT UNNOTICED Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, who moved the motion to repeal Value Added Tax (VAT) in Parliament on February 1, said the fact that the Repeal Bill has not been signed has not gone unnoticed.

Cartwright-Robinson, at a press conference on Wednesday, said: “While we celebrate, we are cognisant of the fact that the Repeal

Bill has not been assented to and we deem it important for the people of this country to understand the victory we celebrate and what remains on the table.

“Minister Simmonds’ letter of January 14, 2013, flat out said no to the PNP Government’s request for a delay.

“Together as a unit on a national issue of grave importance, we now have some breathing room/ the delay (as it were) originally sought by the PNP Government. This we celebrate.

“The ball is now in the PNP Government’s hand to meet the conditions set out so that VAT can stop lurking in the shadows.”

The Opposition Leader noted that VAT has taught the TCI many valuable lessons.

She said: “We must take the time to research issues and I thank Edith Cox for her valuable lecture on the issue and her assistance in preparing members of our Party’s Executive

on the issue so that they can educate others and for her assistance in preparing the only written political party’s position on VAT. “Proper research and positions must be set out in writing with sound reasoning, after all this is what we asked of HMG noting that valuable studies and research was nonexistent in support of VAT. “We also learn that going it alone is never as strong as coming together – so much more can and was achieved.

“We celebrate this historic unity of the Government, Opposition and the business community.

“The education sponsored by the business community, the House of Assembly’s stance together with the failure of businesses to register made this feat possible.”

CAUTION The Turks and Caicos Islands

Business Council (TCIBC) weighed in on the matter, with its member Dr. Sam Slattery calling for caution.

“We should be cautious and wary,” he said.

Slattery noted that moving forward it is a concern, but pointed out that the momentum behind VAT is gone.

He added that the ball is now with the Government and called for the partnership between the UK and TCI to be changed to reflect a level of equality.

Slattery stressed that moving forward it should be remembered that compromise and negotiations are part of the democratic process.

Finance Minster, Washington Misick, told the Weekly News that he is confident that it will not be a problem.

At a press conference on Tuesday, he said: “I think this way everyone wins.”

OPEN OPTION When asked for clarification as to why the Repeal Bill was not signed, the Governor’s spokesperson, Neil Smith, explained that the UK has a constitutional stake in the affairs of the TCI. By not signing the bill, the UK is keeping the option of VAT open for future governments that may decide in the long term to implement VAT. He added that the UK considers this a pragmatic approach.

The Governor himself contends that the current system of taxation is sub-optimal.

Simmonds himself said that VAT would provide a more stable, fairer and broader based system of revenue for the TCI than that which is currently in place.

That said, the current administration has been put on notice that the Government of the TCI has a responsibility to ensure sound finances in the territory.

Arrest warrant out for head of local oncology programme HEAD of the oncology programme at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and managing director of the Cancer Centre of the Bahamas, Professor Arthur Porter, is wanted on charges of committing fraud against the Canadian government, accepting bribes, and conspiracy.

That was according to Canada’s The Globe and Mail, following the issue of warrants for Porter and four other men by Quebec’s AntiCorruption Squad.

Porter faces extradition from the Bahamas to Canada to face the charges and the Weekly News understands that the two countries have already started the extradition process.

According to the Bahamas’ Tribune newspaper, the warrants

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson – Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Narine - Senior Reporter Faizool Deo – Sports Cord Garrido-Lowe – Graphics/Production Editor Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams – Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com (Talk Back) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

came after investigators had probed the circumstances surrounding his resignation from Montreal’s McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) network in 2011.

The paper reported that Porter acknowledged the controversy surrounding his departure from Canada, but said he had not received any official notification regarding an arrest warrant.

Porter said: “I am surprised and angered on hearing this information via the press. Whilst I am certain there is no basis in fact, I have yet to see any documentation.

“Since I left Montreal in 2011, I have been subjected to scurrilous and scandalous allegations in the media. However I have never been contacted by the Montreal, Quebec or Canadian authorities in regard to this or any other matter.”

The Tribune also quoted Porter as saying he will take “appropriate action” once “official information” is provided to him.

NO INDICATION A corporate spokesman for InterHealth Canada said: “At the time of concluding the agreement in late summer of 2011, Professor Porter was still the CEO of McGill Medical System and there were no indications at that time of any impending issues.

“As we were in the process of developing an Oncology Service, they provided us with a proposal based on the Bahamas.

“We had a commitment of regionalising services and the Bahamas Cancer Centre is the only Caribbean Centre that is US accredited.

“We believe that this was an

Professor Arthur Porter

opportunity to provide service of excellence. The proposal and its costing were provided to a Turks and Caicos Government (TCIG) representative at that time and NHIP chief executive.

“After joint discussion and negotiation it was agreed to go ahead with the services as detailed.

“The whole process was transparent and seen by multiple agencies. As a clinical project this has been a major success.”

According to the spokesperson, Professors Arthur Porter and Karol Sikora, the other person involved in setting up the local oncology programme, were introduced to Roger Cheesman who was then the CEO of the hospitals in the Turks and Caicos Islands and were seen as highly respected professionals with bona fide credentials in oncology.

The Globe and Mail has since reported that the Quebec government recently released the results of an audit that found the MUHC’s planned deficit of $12 million had ballooned to $115 million - a financial state so

precarious that the hospital network has been assigned a special overseer to monitor its spending.

Quebec’s anti-corruption task force has also alleged that the hospital network was the victim of fraud in connection with its planned super-hospital.

In November, police charged two former executives at SNCLavalin, the engineering firm that was awarded the contract during Dr Porter’s tenure, with multiple criminal charges, including fraud and using falsified documents.

The Globe and Mail claimed Sierra Asset Management had signed a contract with SNC-Lavalin in 2009 to help secure a deal to build a new facility at MUHC; and earlier this month, investigators questioned if links exists between Dr Porter and Sierra Asset Management.

Sierra Asset Management has a registered address at a Bay Street building but no operations, the newspaper said, naming Jeremy Morris, one of the other men wanted, as the alleged registered principal of Sierra.

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NO VAT FOR TCI

BY VANESSA NARINE

THERE will be no Value Added Tax (VAT) for the Turks and Caicos Islands – a win, according to Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, for the nation’s people.

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), Mr. Mark Simmonds, in a letter, dated February 25, acceded to petitions for the new tax regime not to be implemented, which were most recently articulated in a letter dated January 29.

He noted that he will instruct Governor Ric Todd not give his assent to the Private Member’s Bill to repeal VAT, but rather instruct him not to sign the Commencement Notice, which would have brought in VAT on April 1, 2013.

In his letter he said: “You have stated clearly TCIG's opposition to the implementation of VAT and your support for the current tax regime.

“You will recognise that in taking this position, TCIG are also taking on a responsibility for making such consequent decisions as are necessary for ensuring the fiscal health of the territory, including being able to refinance its debts without a UK government loan guarantee in 2016.

“It is TCIG which will be held accountable for sound finances.

“Both Alan Duncan and I are clear that we will not accept a return to the dire financial situation which prevailed before the interim administration.

“It is still our view that VAT would provide a fairer, broader and more stable revenue stream, and that without this the burden of taxation will fall on a smaller number of businesses and households.

“TCIG will therefore need to take steps to constrain expenditure within the legal binding fiscal framework which is now in place, as stated in your letter dated January 29.

“TCIG will also need to take further steps to build TCI's credibility with the international financial markets so that you are in a position to refinance without a UK loan guarantee after 2016.

“Potential bond holders will want to be reassured that TCIG has sustainable long term public finances with reliable revenue measures in place.

“They will also want to see a clear track record of fiscal surpluses, and the continued transfer of the consequent cash balances into the sinking fund each year particularly until the guaranteed loan falls due.

“We will be looking at your medium term plans with this in mind.”

CONDITIONS Simmonds’ favourable response to the widespread protest to VAT, however, did not come without its

conditions.

According to him, the UK accepts the Government’s proposal not to implement VAT on April 1 on an understanding that the Fiscal and Strategic Policy Statement (FSPS) the Premier sent to the UK, with his letter, is revised in line with proposed spending reductions.

Simmonds said: “The revised FSPS must show credible surpluses. It must be fully adjusted to reflect the decision not to introduce VAT, the uncertainty about alternative revenue streams, and the weakening outlook for some existing revenue streams set out in the third quarter fiscal forecasts.

“The FSPS should be signed off by the Chief Financial Officer, as provided for under legislation before being re-sent to London for final approval.

“TCIG will need to bear in mind that an approved FSPS is required before its budget can be agreed for 2013/14, so there is some urgency.”

The Minister added also that his team will be instructed to monitor the financial situation very closely.

“I cannot and will not allow a reversal of the progress that has been made by the interim government, which is a vital component for the reputation of TCI and its people,” he said.

According to him, the UK is committed to building a partnership which enables the TCI Government to focus on delivering economic and

Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing, second from right, with Cabinet Ministers discussing the UK’s decision to not implement VAT

social development.

He also said that UK wants to ensure TCIG is committed to a framework for responsible financial management that will ensure it can refinance its debts in 2016 without a further UK guarantee.

VICTORY At a press conference on Tuesday, the Premier noted that his Government is working on revising the FSPS and even with the conditions, the decision not to implement VAT is a victory for the people of the Islands.

He pointed to the support of the Opposition, the Turks and Caicos Islands Business Council (TCIBC) for their persistent lobbying, the People’s Referendum for representation at the United Nations (UN) and persons in the private sector, as some of the stakeholders responsible for the victory.

According to him, VAT was an obstacle from day one for his Government, as delivering the mandate of the people depended on the kind of taxation the country had in place which would influence revenues and the level of expenditure.

“Now we can put our shoulders to the wheel,” Ewing said.

Finance Minister, Washington Misick, explained that the now the focus will be on improving the economy.

He explained that taxation is a complicated matter and plans are in place to implement other revenue raising measures and improve revenue control.

His Government will be meeting with the business community to identify areas of the economy that are not paying their fair share of the tax burden.

In the long term, he stated that the

focus will be on lowering the cost of living in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

CHOICES In an interview with the Weekly News, Governor Ric Todd, noted that going forward the issue will be one of choices.

“There was opposition to VAT. The British Ministers accepted the alternative put forward by the Premier, but now it will be a matter of choices,” he said.

When asked, the Governor said he did not feel as if he failed in communicating the message that VAT would be a good option for the TCI. According to him, his role is to ensure that the TCI succeeds and the economy is improved by a government that operates within the framework of the Constitution.

New Procurement Ordinance levels the playing field, Deputy Governor

BY VANESSA NARINE

PARTICIPANTS of a one-week Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) sponsored workshop, mostly proprietors of small and medium sized enterprises, got an in depth look at the new Procurement Ordinance.

And Deputy Governor, Anya Williams, who was present at the workshop’s opening ceremony on Monday at the Beaches’ conference room, noted that the new Procurement Ordinance levels the playing field for businesses.

She said: “What we found in the past was that many small contractors feel they are disadvantaged because the larger companies have the know-how and are better able to access government projects. This helps because what we are doing is leveling the playing field.”

Williams explained that the Procurement Ordinance is geared at creating more transparency and better management, as well as ensuring value for money and putting in place better business techniques.

She said: “We try to familiarise people with the legislation, those coming into the office and those interested in bidding for government projects. We need to improve on our business techniques and this is what the new ordinance does.”

According to her, the Government will work with partners like the CDB to assist small and medium sized enterprises in this and other regards.

Williams added that the new Procurement Board replaces the Tender Board and is supported by legal expertise in the Chamber, the Finance Ministry’s Permanent Secretary (PS) and the newly established Contracts Unit, as well as several financial managers within TCIG. “Their job is to ensure that all government contracts and awarded in an open and fair and transparent manner and that government gets value for money,” She said.

ESSENTIAL LEGISLATION The Procurement Ordinance was passed under the Interim Administration, after discussions

with the Advisory Council and Consultative Forum last September.

It was touted as a further piece of essential legislation to help protect the Turks and Caicos Islands poor commercial decisions by Government.

The Ordinance is one of a number of pieces of legislation being introduced as part of the body of legislative and regulatory changes designed to protect the public sector and its finances.

Following the enactment of the Public Finance Management Ordinance 2012 in March, it was concluded that a further specific procurement ordinance was necessary to reduce the opportunity to circumvent procurement procedures and ensure significantly improved management and accountability in all future procurement activities.

During the September discussions, it was pointed out that the previous administration, particularly during the period 2005-2009, negotiated poorly and mismanaged several important contracts.

It was noted that during that time: Contracts were entered into for

exceptionally long periods with little or no financial benefit for the people of the TCI, with little or no opportunity to renegotiate or end the contracts without severe financial penalty to the public purse.

There was no transfer of risk to the contractor either in terms of their expected performance or financial penalties for poor performance.

Negotiations were often led by the proposed contractor and once a contract was signed, continuing contract monitoring is generally poor or more often non-existent.

There have been instances where financial guarantees requested by proposed contractors have been agreed at the end of the evaluation of tender phase without Ministry of Finance knowledge or approval.

It is apparent that Government procurement was so poorly coordinated and it is very unlikely that Value for Money is being achieved.

The legislation has been made public and information on it is available on the Government’s website http://www.gov.tc

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

CARICOM’s Influence

IN a powerful presentation to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) last Monday, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, bemoaned the current state of affairs in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), warning that it has the potential to throw the nation into a “state of chaos”.

What are your thoughts on the impact his speech to CARICOM will have on influencing change in the TCI?

Pay Attention

I sincerely hope that the FCO is paying attention.

They are still treating us the same way that lost them the US, India, South Africa and a host of other “colonies”

A strong start towards change

First of all I agree that the Premier’s speech was very powerful.

Whether it influences change or not, it is very difficult to say but I do believe that his speech has many persons and countries

including the UK to have a different look at us.

I think in order for a change to take place though, the Premier and others must continue to expose the true state of TCI in terms of our relationship with the UK. Persistence will pay off and eventually persistence will influence a change.

One speech alone will not be enough. We have to be serious and committed to what we believe in and if we can get CARICOM on our side along with the other overseas territories, we will be a force to be reckon with which in turn will no doubt bring about a positive change in the TCI and the remaining overseas territories.

A change must come and it will come at a high price.

Chaos right at home

The Premier and his cabinet are the ones in chaos.

In the speech he wants the Brits to pull all

their people out then he pledges them close cooperation.

The public is listening how they the PNP will clean up their own massive mess. They let the former cabinet run wild and now this cabinet cannot even walk.

It is time for a return to honest government with moral authority. It is time to install the government which won the popular vote going away.

PNP won those three seats by a wisp of votes It is now time for PDM.

 Become a contributor Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it?

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

CDB-sponsored workshops will grow small businesses, Gardiner

BY VANESSA NARINE THE Ministries of Government Support Services and Border Control and Labour, in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), organised a series of workshops for small, petty and medium contractors and vendors, which started on Monday.

Minister of Border Control and Labour, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner, at the opening session held at the Beaches conference room, maintained that the CDB-sponsored workshop will help to grow businesses.

The series of workshops and seminars are aimed at improving management, job estimation skills and understanding of new procurement ordinances.

According to Gardiner, developing small and medium sized enterprises is important for the development of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ economy.

He stated that the collaborative effort fits into his Government’s effort to both establish and realise the development goals of the country.

“We believe this seminar is very timely,” he said.

Gardiner expressed his appreciation to the CDB for their support.

Deputy Governor, Anya Williams, echoed similar sentiments and noted that the seminars will better position small and medium sized enterprises to compete with larger businesses with more resources.

She underscored the fact that there is much to take away from the sessions.

WIDER PROGRAMME Facilitator of the sessions, Kenneth Harvey, explained that the Computerised Job Estimation Tool (CJET) and Management Techniques are what the seminars and focused on – components of a wider programme that falls under the bank’s Caribbean Technological Consultancy Services (CTCS).

He noted that both sets of tools have been developed by the CTCS Unit and tested

The head table of officials at the opening of the CDB workshop on Monday

Facilitator of the workshop, Kenneth Harvey

extensively.

Harvey said: “The focus is to prepare you for your bottom line.”

The facilitator pointed out that the tools allow small and medium sized enterprises to function in a transparent and honest manner, as well as ensure that clients do not feel ‘cheated’ in any way.

He added that it is easy for proprietors of small and medium sized enterprises to access the CTCS network for support they need in starting up their businesses.

According to him, proprietors receive a hands on approach by visiting other territories or have a resource person at their disposal for up to 15 working days.

“It is all about the bottom line,” he stressed.

Harvey made it clear that at the end of the day proprietors are in better positions to make informed decisions, which would improve their bottom line.

The CJET workshop ran from February 25 and is continuing until March 1.

The Management Techniques Workshop ran from February 26 and is continuing until March 1.

A cross section of the participants at the workshop

Also a one day Procurement Seminar was hosted on February 25.

The Management Techniques Workshop included key business modelling concepts and will prepare participants to use internationally accepted management techniques, tools and concepts including computerised cash flow management.

Both workshops attracted a registration fee of $75 each, but the fee was waived for certain seminars at the opening session.

The procurement seminar was free

for anyone who signed up for any of the workshops.

It provided insights into the guidelines to public financial management; sensitised participants on the recently introduced Procurement Ordinance and provided direction and guidance specific to the needs for contractors regarding the new Procurement Bill.

Minister of Government Support Services, George Lightbourne, promised that the initiative would become an annual activity that is spread across the Islands.

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Amanda Missick did not mislead the public, Premier

BY VANESSA NARINE PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, this week defended former Health Minister, Amanda Missick, saying that she did not mislead the public over the financial and clinical service audits of the local hospitals.

Last week, the Weekly News reported that while Missick had said the audits had begun, they had not.

Last week in an interview with the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Jill Magri, she noted that neither the financial or clinical services audits had started.

Since the former Health Minister was unavailable for comment on why the audits had not actually started, this newspaper contacted Finance Minister, Washington Missick, who explained last Wednesday that that he believes the delay with the financial audit was the need for a review to the Terms of Reference (TOR) of KPMG, the firm that will be handling the audit.

Ewing, on Thursday, repeated the similar explanation and reiterated that Missick did not mislead the public.

The Premier went on the defensive after Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene CartwrightRobinson, pointed out that

Missick made no mention of a delay with the audits, but misled the people of the TCI when she said the audits had begun.

She said: “The Government has to urgently begin to pay real attention to the healthcare monster that it has created… healthcare costs are the single largest challenge to us next to the repayment of the debt.

“This country cannot continue as is with the costs and state of healthcare. Aside from being a financial burden, our people are still being turned away.

“We believe that the PDM has the moral authority to handle this issue and there are many persons that have valuable contributions to be made on the state of healthcare in these Islands.

“To this end, my party will be calling a meeting with the Medical Association and other institutions to meet with them and discuss the all important topic of healthcare.

“We therefore call on the Government to delay not further and to ensure that the audits begin and a PDM government will handle the rest.”

The financial and clinical audits are expected to have the effect of reducing hospital costs and improving clinical care, in addition to holding the hospital accountable for any defaults under the contract.

House of Assembly to meet before by-elections THE House of Assembly is expected to meet on March 14 and 15 before the by-elections to address several pressing issues.

Cabinet, on Wednesday, agreed to put to the House of Assembly supplementary budgets on the Integrity Commission, the Human Rights Commission and the purchase of pumps for the Grand Turk reverse osmosis water plant.

It also agreed a supplementary capital budget reimbursement of $2.7m to the consolidated fund as a consequence of the agreement between NIB and TCIG in final settlement of all outstanding issues between the two parties.

This agreement involves the transfer of NJS Francis Building from the NIB to the TCI Government (TCIG) and the Headley Durham Building from TCIG to the NIB; payment of outstanding liabilities by

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

both parties to the other; conclusion of all outstanding issues; and the balancing sum of $2.7m.

Cabinet also decided to put to the House of Assembly technical but necessary amendments to the Financial Services Commission Ordinance.

They approved amendments to the regulations on Anti-Money Laundering and the Prevention of Terrorist Financing, Companies Fees, Non Profit Organisations and Telecommunications Fee Structures.

Cabinet discussed and supported a draft bill on Fractional Ownership and decided that this should be put out for consultation for four weeks, after which Cabinet will take a final decision on whether to approve the bill for inclusion on the order paper for the House of Assembly.

The last meeting of the House was on February 1.

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Candidates nominated for by-elections TWO candidates fielded by the two major political parties were nominated on Friday for the upcoming by-election.

The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) challenged the election results in Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, electoral district seven, in the Supreme Court and won their petition resulting in the by-election, which is scheduled for March 22.

The PDM’s candidate, Oral Selver, told the media that with the nominations process over, his campaign will be intensified – an effort fully supported by his team.

He said: “There has been excellent reception. We have been going door to door. The message is out and the feedback has been very good.”

Former Health Minister, Amanda Missick, whose portfolio was taken on by Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, is defending her seat.

She told the Weekly News that she, with her team, is looking at getting those who did not vote last time to turn out to the poles.

“I am sure I will fare well,” Missick said.

According to her, she is confident going forward.

PNP's candidate Amanda Missick

PDM’s candidate Oral Selver

The Supervisor of Elections, Dudley Lewis, this week advised that the same Elector’s Register that was used for the General Elections on November 9, 2012, will be used at the March 22 polls.

According to him, there are 941 voters on the register together, plus a supplementary register of 43 voters for electoral district seven.

The total amount of voters permitted to vote on polling day in electoral district seven Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills by-election will therefore be 948.

Lewis stated that no names were

added or removed from the register.

The Supervisor of Elections stressed that voters will be permitted to vote only if their names appear on the 2012 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills Register that was published in November 2012.

The Elector’s Register and Supplementary Register for Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill was posted at polling stations located at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex and the Community College in advance of polling day for viewing. (VANESSA NARINE)

Governor and Premier differ on CARICOM’s influence

BY VANESSA NARINE

THERE are different views coming from Governor Ric Todd and Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, on the influence of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

More particularly the body’s influence on the decision that came from Minister Mark Simmonds on the controversial Value Added Tax (VAT).

The Governor, in an interview with the Weekly News on Tuesday, noted that the Premier’s presentation to CARICOM at the 24th intersessional meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government had no effect on Simmonds’ decision.

According to him, the Premier is entitled to set out his views, which he did in strong terms at CARICOM – a speech that revolved around the attack on democracy in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He chalked Ewing’s comments up to political campaigning, given that by-elections are around the corner.

“It is not my job to comment on things said by politicians during an election campaign,” he said, declining to comment further on the matter.

The Premier, addressing the Governor’s contention that his speech was “political”, told the Weekly News that the Governor’s actions

Governor Ric Todd

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing

and comments only support his call to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) for Todd to be recalled.

“He can say that what I did was political. The Governor has been in politics all his life, engineering and getting involved in politics.

“I was speaking to the violation of the democratic principles in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the injustices that the people are dealing with,” Ewing said.

Ewing explained that to discount CARICOM’s influence and the perception of the UK’s relationship with its Overseas Territories is foolhardy.

“I said I am sure that there was some influence. I am not saying that CARICOM directly lobbied the UK government, but every stance that

someone takes, the UK government will have to take that on board in their decision making,” he said.

“If the Governor will say that the UK did not think about CARICOM or think about what the world with think of them, then they are not thinking strategically.

“I sure what happened at CARICOM had some influence.”

The Premier stressed that with the return to democracy, his Government will continue to pursue partnerships with important partners.

CARICOM, according to him, is an important ally that will champion TCI’s causes.

The Turks and Caicos Islands was reinstated as an Associate Member of CARICOM with the country’s return to democratic rule.

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March 2 - 8, 2013

Several former civil servants interested in returning, Deputy Governor

BY VANESSA NARINE DEPUTY Governor, Anya Williams, told the Weekly News that several former civil servants have expressed interest in returning to the service and the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) is working with them.

She said: “The policy was always that persons who took the voluntary severance programme and wanted to return to the civil service would have to pay back the unused portion of the severance payments.

“A discount is taken from the time you spent out of the service and you repay the remainder.”

The repayment to TCIG is set at the rate of two per cent for each month outstanding prior to the four year point.

So, someone seeking to apply after 12 months out of the civil service would be required to pay back 72 per cent (two per cent x 36 months) of the compensation received, for example.

Former civil servants were advised in January that if the returning former employee provides evidence of their expenditure on additional qualifications relevant to their new post they may be able to deduct this from the amount to be repaid.

Any balances must be paid back as a condition of employment within a maximum of 60 days of a job offer being made.

The Deputy Governor confirmed

Deputy Governor Anya Williams

that no payment plans or instalment agreements will be offered or accepted by TCIG. FINANCIAL SUPPORT Williams explained that some former civil servants have engaged financial institutions to repay the unused portion of severance payments.

She noted that interviews will be done and once the candidate is selected an offer letter will be given to successful persons, in an effort to cater to their needs for documentation to take to financial institutions.

“What we found was that persons would have to repay the monies before they can even compete for the positions.

“This way we can level the playing field for those civil servants

that wish to return,” the Deputy Governor said.

According to her, the old process makes it difficult for the playing field to be levelled.

Williams noted that all TCIG vacancies are open to any qualified persons meeting the stated criteria, so there is no guarantee that a former civil servant who makes an application will necessarily be successful - the job will always be given to the most competent qualified individual.

She said: “It has been over a year now that persons have been out of the civil service and there are several vacancies in TCIG as a result of internal promotions.”

Williams maintained that TCIG is not increasing the size of the civil service.

She said: “We wish to make sure that we offer these positions to the very best people for the jobs and we will gladly reemploy people who left under voluntary severance, provided that they are the best person for the job, after a competitive selection process, and that they repay the balance of any financial compensation received.”

Previously the policy was that someone who had taken voluntary severance could not be reemployed

by TCIG for 48 months from their departure until March 2016 (double the maximum compensation pay out of two year's salary/wage, dependent on qualifying service).

Airport extension subject to Simmonds’ approval THE planned $10m redevelopment of passenger facilities at Providenciales International Airport is subject to the approval of UK Minister, Mark Simmonds.

On Wednesday, Cabinet discussed with the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA) the proposal for the massive extension and its accompanying financing model.

The proposal was approved and, subject to final endorsement from the Secretary of State, works are expected to begin as soon as possible.

The redevelopment is the second phase in the overall plan to improve the airport.

Phase one was completed by Dexter Construction, with major sub-contractors Cove Construction Ltd. and CBMS of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The focus was extending the runway from 7,600 feet to a length of 9,200 feet.

This extension supported the facilitation of new long-haul flights from Europe and Asia to the TCI, allowing for planes such as the Boeing 777 and 747 to land at the airport.

Phase two, according to TCIAA

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, with Minister Mark Simmonds in Grand Turk during his November visit to the TCI

Premier says Simmonds’ decision reflects confidence in Gov’t THE decision to not implement Value Added Tax (VAT) by Minister Mark Simmonds reflects the confidence in the current Government’s ability to deliver, according to the Premier.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, said: “There are a lot of challenges ahead of us.”

The win, he added, solidifies the UK’s intention to work in partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Government.

Ewing referenced the fact that a mere handshake, the one he shared with Minister Simmonds during his visit to the TCI in November, does not always mean partnership, but is evidenced by action – practical partnership.

He said: “We will not be an unreasonable government.”

According to him, his Government will do everything to move the country forward in partnership.

Commenting on the possible show of confidence, Finance Minister, Washington Misick, stated that while many expected a favourable decision to be more difficult, it was textbook diplomacy.

“I think everyone wins in this way,” he said.

Minister Simmonds, in the opening lines of his February 25 letter, stressed the UK’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the TCI. He said: “I would like to reiterate my commitment to building a partnership which enables the TCI Government (TCIG) to focus on delivering economic and social development, while also reassuring us that TCIG are committed to a framework for responsible financial management that will ensure TCIG can refinance its debts in 2016 without a further UK guarantee.”

(VANESSA NARINE)

Opposition Leader disappointed over non-invite to CARICOM

An artist impression of the expansion project

Chief Executive, John Smith, will nearly double the size of the terminal to better accommodate the 500,000 passengers who pass through the airport each year. It will increase in size from 51,462 to 92,321 sq ft.

Once completed passengers will be able to enjoy expanded checkin counter areas and self-checkin facilities, additional bathroom facilities, larger retail space for shops and restaurants, and improved

medical amenities.

Cabinet stressed that work should also begin on planning for the next potential phase, a new terminal.

According to Cabinet, the airport is critical to the economy of TCI. Work, once started this year, is scheduled to be completed in 2014 and will ensure that the airport meets the International Association of Travel Agents criteria for Level C Class facilities.

LEADER of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, expressed disappointment at not being extended an invitation to be part of the Turks and Caicos Islands delegation that attended the 24th inter-sessional meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

At a press conference on Wednesday, while she acknowledged that the Government does not usually extend such invitations, the Opposition Leader said: “I am disappointed that a more united position was not presented overseas in that an invitation was not extended to the Opposition to be a part of the delegation.

“I believe that though we are in a by-election campaign, there are national and regional statements to be made and the presence of the Opposition would have signalled a strong message.”

Cartwright-Robinson added that

if her party is successful at the March 22 polls, it is her party’s intention to govern differently and to, at all times, present a united position and presence on national issues locally, regionally and internationally.

In response, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, explained that the call for unity and the willingness to work in similar fashion must go hand in hand.

“I am not sure what stronger effect we could have expected if the Opposition Leader had gone to CARICOM, more than we have already seen.

“The Leader of the Opposition has called for us to unite and while she has said that, she herself has also said that we came to them [the PDM] begging for help; meaning that because we asked for help we couldn’t do the job, that we are weak.

“One has to be careful. If you want unity and collaboration you just cannot make such statements.”

(VANESSA NARINE)

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

9

PDM brings out the big guns

BY VANESSA NARINE

THE People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is holding nothing back as they head into the March 22 by-elections.

The party is bringing out the big guns and wasting no time in pointing out the shortcomings of former Health Minister, Amanda Missick, who has been representing her district for the last three months.

The courts ruled in favour of the PDM in early February when the party challenged the results in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills district.

The party’s candidate, Isaac Oral Selver, at a press conference on Wednesday, stressed that his intent, enthusiasm and desire to serve the TCI is as strong as ever.

He used his years of experience working in different capacities to his favour, hitting out at Missick when he said she “does not represent hard work in any shape, form or fashion.”

Selver noted that in offering himself as a candidate he understands the concerns and the needs of the people, which they grapple with on a daily basis.

A MAN WITH A PLAN In a prior interview, the PDM candidate outlined his plans for the district.

According to him, his areas of focus are education, jobs, security, equality and creation, technical and apprenticeship programmes, and reading and literacy initiatives in primary schools, among others.

He said, “The major difference that sets me apart from my opponent, the PNP’s candidate, Ms. Amanda Missick, is that I am known to accomplish things.

“I worked in hotel administration and was involved in the opening of four major hotels and in the last few years I worked in training and development.”

Selver stressed that his plans for his district are goals that have secured buy-in from many in the community.

He noted that he has already begun working on implementing his plans, particularly in the area of training for youths.

“I have a draft in place for a work readiness seminar for youths who are not employed. This way we can do more to prepare them for employment,” Selver said.

The Cheshire Hall candidate added that he is also working on putting together committees to address topics like hurricane relief and Crimestoppers.

However, he stated that one plan he is enthusiastic about is his reading plan for primary schools.

TCI working with Haiti on a number of initiatives

THE Turks and Caicos Islands and Haiti are working together on a number of initiatives, the majority of which tackle the issue of illegal immigration.

Minister of Border Control and Labour, Ricardo Don-Hue Gardiner, returned from Haiti after the 24th inter-sessional meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Friday.

He told the Weekly News that in addition to the conference, he had an opportunity to engage officials of the Haitian government.

According to him, one important meeting was that with the Minster in charge of the welfare of the Haitian Diaspora.

Gardiner said the Minister is expected to visit the TCI, as his government will be sending a formal invitation soon.

“We are working on a number of initiatives, through a collaborative effort, to address different issues,” he said.

“For example we are looking at

getting Haitians here resettled at home and starting advertisements on Haitian television to warn against the dangers of making the dangerous journey on a sloop to enter the TCI illegally.”

The Minister maintained that his ministry is working to handle the issue of illegal immigration in a manner that ensures the dignity of the individuals involved, while at the same time remaining firm and fair.

“We will work with the Haitian government,” Gardiner stressed.

At this month’s opening of a local Haitian consulate, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, cited investment opportunities for mutual benefit as another area of collaboration.

He suggested the opening of a TCI desk in Haiti, a reciprocal gesture, to facilitate future engagements between the countries.

Ewing stated that bilateral relations will be improved with the opening of the consulate.

(VANESSA NARINE)

The PDM’s leadership team at a press conference on Wednesday

On Wednesday, Selver made it clear that the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills district is badly in need of representation.

TRUE REPRESENTATION Leader of the PDM and the Opposition, Sharlene CartwrightRobinson, echoed the point of representation.

According to her, the district has had a chance to see their elected candidate in action, “making representation or lack thereof”.

Cartwright-Robinson made no bones about pointing out that Missick at the first meeting of the House of Assembly, rather than addressing pressing issues, spoke to the amount being paid to members of the House.

The party leader stressed that at a time when the economy is slowly beginning to recover, the fact that the former Health Minister petitioned for a raise in salaries is telling.

She noted that the electorate has had a chance to see the kind

of representation they get with the Progressive National Party’s (PNP) candidate.

Cartwright-Robinson said nothing has been done in the area of public health by Missick in her three months in office.

She added that her party’s candidate has a firm grasp on the issues of the day and stated her party’s full endorsement of Selver.

Cartwright-Robinson said: “He [Oral Selver] is an example of hard work, strong work ethics and what one can achieve when they are committed to these ideals.

“Oral Selver rose from bread boy to bus boy to eventually management level where he championed the cause of the underrepresented and was instrumental in designing the gratuity system at 100 per cent benefit to the hospitality workers.

“He is an accomplished businessman and a fine example of hard work and how it pays off.

“We are pleased that Hon Selver has a firm grasp of his national issues as well as his constituency

issues and we are honoured to have him represent such a diverse constituency and we endorse his constituency plans….PDM is the right direction.

“Destiny has given us a second chance. We have strong leadership, solid experience, vision, diverse skills and real plans that will allow us to govern from day one.”

The election, according to the party leader, boils down to the qualifications and capabilities of the candidates being fielded.

Cartwright-Robinson acknowledged too that given the fact that the by-election can determine a change in government, the political parties themselves will feature largely in the campaigning up to polling day.

“We are aware of what we are facing and we are ready and confident,” she posited.

She agreed that the PDM has a second chance at securing the leadership of the Turks and Caicos Islands making the March 22 polls a critical election.

Planning Board defers dolphinarium proposal DOLPHIN Cove Development’s proposal to open its fifth ‘swim with the dolphins’ park in the Cooper Jack area of Providenciales, a $3m investment, was deferred by the Planning Board.

The board met on February 7 to consider proposals from across the Islands.

The proposal was made for a Dolphin Park containing one main building, a floating boat dock, commercial islands huts, emergency floating boat dock, parking and pathways.

Pending approval of its proposal, Dolphin Cove Development had planned to open its attraction in spring 2013.

In the meantime, a judicial review of the amendments to regulation 18 of the Fisheries Protection Ordinance is ongoing.

The review proceeded after Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale ruled in favour of the application in January.

McKnight’s attorneys filed the application on behalf of the Providenciales Chamber of Commerce, TCSPCA, Pride Ltd, Turks and Caicos Reef Fund.

The application seeks to quash Governor Ric Todd’s decision on October, 24 2012, to amend regulation 18 of the Fisheries Protection Ordinance.

The amendment allows the

importation of marine mammals into the Islands by a person who holds a permit, certificate or other document authorising importation and keeping of marine mammals for the purposes of display, exhibition or performance.

Todd’s move sparked outrage in the local community, expressly among environment and animal enthusiasts.

The change to the law came after Dolphin Cove Development received a business licence by the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) in early October, after it proposed the $3m investment.

(VANESSA NARINE)

10

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Premier Ewing responds to Minister Simmonds Dear Minister Simmonds, I acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 25th instant.

As your letter does much more than convey the decision of Her Majesty’s Government not to implement VAT come April 1, my sentiments were that it required more than a mere acknowledgment of receipt.

The Turks and Caicos Island Government does not doubt your commitment to the development of the TCI and so to the extent that we disagree it must necessarily be on our respective paths to that end.

In turn I hope that Her Majesty’s Government recognises that the commitment of the TCI Government to the economic, social and indeed political development of the TCI must be greater, not least because that development benefits Turks and Caicos Islanders and all those who

call these Islands home.

In that context and in the true spirit of partnership I trust that HMG will allow the TCI Government the discretion to implement those policies which in our view, will result in our economic recovery and social development.

We cannot bear the responsibility of ensuring sound finances without a commensurate degree of autonomy with respect to revenue generation and spending initiatives.

I can say without fear of contradiction that our Government has always been open to frank debate and compromise with HMG and all its representatives.

We will not, however, allow our desire for compromise to cause us to abdicate our responsibility to the people of the TCI. I turn now to the several issues in your letter that require specific comment.

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

You have invited the members of the Assembly to condemn what you describe as “vitriolic public attacks” on members of the judiciary and public servants.

I do not know what it is you describe as vitriolic public attacks as you have provided no example.

In any event I am sure that like me, my colleagues in the House would be slow to take any position that would leave any person in this country feeling that they are unable to comment on matters of public importance or to be critical of any institution or public officer.

The concept of free speech is a bastion of democracy. It is a check and balance against tyranny.

The essential ideal of selfgovernment by the people is undermined if those in power are able to manipulate the electorate by either withholding information or stifling criticism.

It was the English author Edward Bulwer-Lytton who wrote: “Beneath the rule of men entirely great. The pen is mightier than the sword”.

It is therefore no wonder that the right of free speech has been described as “a safety valve to let off steam when people might otherwise be bent on revolution”.

Those who abuse the right of free speech open themselves to criminal prosecution or civil suit.

The courts in my view are best suited to determine whether laws have been breached or whether unabashed but otherwise lawful criticism, is being characterised as vitriolic public attack.

You have also denounced the Assembly’s decision to bring the VAT Repeal by way of Private Members

Motion as being unacceptable.

The bill was neither conceived nor presented as a Government Bill with the result that both Cabinet and the Attorney General’s Chambers were properly excluded.

The purpose of the bill was to repeal legislation passed by the interim administration.

The interim administration was headed by the same Governor who continues to be the President of the Cabinet and who together with the FCO had much vested in the VAT Ordinance.

It would in the circumstances, be foolhardy for a Parliament that was united in its resolve to see the Ordinance repealed, to seek to have the Repeal Bill originate in a Cabinet where the Opposition does not have a voice and where the Governor wields disproportionate power and influence to the extent that he may refuse to have the question of the Repeal Ordinance placed on the Cabinet Agenda.

The fact that the Governor has refused to assent to the Repeal Bill and that you have failed to instruct him to assent to it and his comments immediately following the passage of the Bill through the Assembly, is justification enough for our decision.

The members of the Assembly are bound by the Constitution and the laws of the Turks and Caicos Islands generally and we each have a duty to represent the best interest of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In acting as we did we have been true to both law and duty and in the circumstances we need neither the blessing nor approval of the FCO. That you have ascribed a sinister motive to our action is indeed regrettable.

COMMENTARY

Frozen taxes, real solutions HOORAY the implementation of VAT has been frozen.

Not canceled, not set aside, frozen.

It became obvious during Sharlene’s motion and her Appropriations Committee meeting that CFO McGarel Groves was not ready to implement the tax. Further and also revealed was the fact he had never calculated what the VAT tax would yield. The Finance Secretary did not have a clue on the why of VAT. Here was this complicated program taking 22 additional civil servants and private accountants for every business just to keep track of the tax. Yet the man promoting the tax had no clue of what damage it would cause or what

By David Tapfer it would yield. The classic disconnect between government bureaucracies and private business.

Starting with the administration of Floyd Hall but continuing into the Interim Administration we have seen taxes escalate. Car registration rose

from 35 bucks to 175. Small business license rose from $150 to $300. Gas tax initiated at 25 to 75 cents per gallon. Both Floyd and Governor Wetherell were considering income and property taxes. They imposed a now 6 per cent additional income tax to bring Inter Health Canada,(IHC), to our shores. That tax was insufficient to pay the planned one third cost of NHIP. Why VAT in the first place? Simple, the country was run bankrupt by the PNP administration starting in 2003.

The British loan guarantee, the $120m hospital loan join the 25 year contract with IHC to hog tie the finances of the TCI for a generation.

What then are the solutions ? They are two-fold. Cut expenses and grow the economy. We have seen in over

100 days of the Ewing PNP government the unwillingness to take on the health care mess of which he was a central player. He began by giving his ministry to none other than the least qualified, Amanda.

Have you heard a PNP plan to grow the economy ? Washy wants to just tax in other ways. We have said it before, the monuments to PNP failure are everywhere you look. Dellis Cay, Lucayan Condos, Royal Reef, St Charles Place, Niki Beach, Ambergris Cay, Middle Caicos West, on and on they go. Make no mistake it was not the worlds economy it was corruption that killed these developments. They paid under the table, behind the scenes and were not properly financed. Those of the PNP party on the receiving end cared little if they failed, they had

Your castigation of the Assembly’s actions in the way that you have could leave one with the clear impression that you see the Assembly as no more than an extension of the Executive and that is likewise most unfortunate.

Finally we remain concerned that you have decided against instructing the Governor to assent to the Repeal Bill.

Unless the Bill is assented to, the people of these Islands will continue to question Her Majesty’s Government’s commitment to the ideals of democracy in the Turks and Caicos Islands and that will not augur well for the partnership that we are desirous of building.

The Government will likewise have legitimate reason to believe that there is not a genuine intention on the part of Her Majesty’s Government to allow the TCI Government to move forward unimpeded.

There will always be the real threat that the VAT can be implemented by the stroke of a pen without the need for further debate.

I am firm in my conviction that on the question of VAT the only fair solution is for the Ordinance to be repealed thus removing once and for all the possibility of taxation without representation.

I hope that you will give this course further consideration.

For the reasons you indicate I am likewise copying this letter to the Leader of the Opposition.

Sincerely Dr. The Hon. Rufus W. Ewing Premier, Turks and Caicos Islands

manipulated their share.

The Progressive National Party and the TCI now has a negative reputation. Honest developers frightened away. The restoration of a PNP government proved that point and we now need to reverse that reputation and begin again.

I chuckle when I see PTV reruns of the Trevor Cooke interview. Here was a man who invested millions of the taxes paid into NIB into the TCI Bank and the Belize Bank and he deserves an interview? According to Cooke NIB was designed to meet an equilibrium point when the pay-ins equaled the payouts.

Apparently Cooke knew the country would not grow under PNP. He tells us that things were rough and that is why certain (PNP) folks could not afford to pay the per cent NIB tax.

The tax was simply a percentage of what they had earned . Obviously under Cooke they were given a pass. Now he is the PNP National Chairman, payback.

It is clearly time for a change.

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

VAT is dead

Dear Editor, VAT is dead. There is no conceivable set of circumstances that could ever revive it. However, democracy is only barely alive.

The response from the UK was ill considered and creates more problems than it solves.

What is the legal basis for an instruction from the Secretary of State to not bring a piece of legislation (VAT Ordinance) into force.

I am not aware that there is any legal basis for such an instruction.

Law that has been assented to, must be brought into force with all due diligence with full regard for the will of the legislature.

To do otherwise would be constitutionally impossible.

If such a circumstance were to be accepted, law could be approved and assented to; but the executive or others could simply not operate the law.

In such circumstances there would be little point in a legislature or Royal assent and we would be at the mercy of rule by decree.

The Repeal Bill was approved in the House and sent up to the Governor. The statutory options that are available to him are clear.

He must either assent to the bill or refuse to assent.

There are a number of different routes in the event that he is unwilling to assent, all of these options require the matter to be referred to the Secretary of State for a decision.

This is of course taking into account that the Governor is not likely to send back to the House with suggested amendments.

It appears from the evidence that the matter has indeed been referred to the Secretary of State but the basis of that referral is totally unclear.

Inexplicably, the Governor and the UK seem to be under the impression

that these kinds of communications should be confidential or secret.

These communications are not, and should not be private. Any referral, decision or instruction should be published in full.

These are matters that are open to public scrutiny and/or review by the courts if necessary.

Faced with a decision on assent to legislation under the statutory framework, the Minister has two options; either an instruction to refuse assent, or an instruction to assent.

There is no possible option to decide not to make a decision and circumvent the due process by instructing the Governor to indefinitely delay assent.

If the Minister has instructed the Governor not to assent to the Repeal Bill this decision must be clear and transparent.

If the Minister has not instructed him to withhold assent, the Governor must assent to the repeal without further delay.

We are entitled to expect the ‘rule of law’ and ‘procedural fairness’ in the TCI. This procedure is clearly unlawful and unconstitutional.

On a practical level we are entitled to have certainty and closure in this matter... any uncertainty is not in the public interest and damaging to our economic interests.

The scandalous decision to continue down this path serves no other purpose than loss of time.

In regard to this matter, the Governor's statements and radio commentary were typically ill judged and lacking in any grace.

I urge that there is an immediate reconsideration of the UK and Governor's position to avert any further controversy.

Sincerely, Jerzy Kolodziej

NEWS 11

Minister Simmonds responds to Premier Ewing

The Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, Thank you for your letter of January 29. Both myself and Alan Duncan, Minister of State at the Department for International Development, have carefully considered your proposal and this letter represents our joint view.

I would like to reiterate my commitment to building a partnership which enables the TCI Government (TCIG) to focus on delivering economic and social development, while also reassuring us that TCIG are committed to a framework for responsible financial management that will ensure TCIG can refinance its debts in 2016 without a further UK guarantee.

You have stated clearly TCIG's opposition to the implementation of VAT and your support for the current tax regime.

You will recognise that in taking this position, TCIG are also taking on a responsibility for making such consequent decisions as are necessary for ensuring the fiscal health of the territory, including being able to refinance its debts without a UK Government loan guarantee in 2016.

It is TCIG which will be held accountable for sound finances.

Both Alan Duncan and I are clear that we will not accept a return to the dire financial situation which prevailed before the interim administration.

It is still our view that VAT would provide a fairer, broader and more stable revenue stream, and that without this the burden of taxation will fall on a smaller number of businesses and households.

TCIG will therefore need to take steps to constrain expenditure within the legal binding fiscal framework which is now in place, as stated in

your letter dated January 29.

TCIG will also need to take further steps to build TCI's credibility with the international financial markets so that you are in a position to refinance without a UK loan guarantee after 2016.

Potential bond holders will want to be reassured that TCIG has sustainable long term public finances with reliable revenue measures in place.

They will also want to see a clear track record of fiscal surpluses, and the continued transfer of the consequent cash balances into the sinking fund each year particularly until the guaranteed loan falls due.

We will be looking at your medium term plans with this in mind.

I hope and trust that TCIG and UK Ministers can maintain a dialogue about the future development of the territory including, as necessary, a frank debate on any issues where we disagree.

I am sure that you share my disappointment at the vitriolic public attacks in the past weeks on the judiciary and public servants on TCI. We look to you, your colleagues and all Members of the House of Assembly to condemn this and work actively for political debate that does not take such an unacceptable form.

I should also make clear that the use of a Private Member’s Bill as a device to avoid discussion in Cabinet and to circumvent due process in the Attorney General’s office is not acceptable.

To conclude, we accept TCIG’s proposal not to implement VAT on 1 April on an understanding that: the Fiscal and Strategic Policy Statement (FSPS) you supplied with your letter is revised in line with your proposed spending

reductions.

The revised FSPS must show credible surpluses.

It must be fully adjusted to reflect the decision not to introduce VAT, the uncertainty about alternative revenue streams, and the weakening outlook for some existing revenue streams set out in the third quarter fiscal forecasts.

The FSPS should be signed off by the Chief Financial Officer, as provided for under legislation before being re-sent to London for final approval.

TCIG will need to bear in mind that an approved FSPS is required before its Budget can be agreed for 2013/14 so there is some urgency.

The Governor will not give his assent to the Private Member’s Bill to repeal VAT, but I will instruct the Governor not to sign the Commencement Notice, which would have brought in VAT on 1 April 2013.

As the signing of the Notice is what would have been required to introduce VAT, there is no need for further legislative action.

I will instruct my team to monitor the financial situation very closely.

I cannot and will not allow a reversal of the progress that has been made by the interim government, which is a vital component for the reputation of TCI and its people.

As the main Opposition party has supported your Government’s stance on VAT, and in the interest of transparency given the forth-coming by-election, I am also copying this letter to the Leader of the Opposition.

Yours Sincerely, Mark Simmonds, Minister for the Overseas Territories, Caribbean

It is not about VAT, it is about democracy – part three Dear Editor, You were kind enough to print my open letter to Minister Simmonds in early January when I complained that his unilateral decision on VAT showed no respect for the democratic process.

Although I, and many others who wrote, never received the courtesy of a response from the Ministers office, our requests have been answered, at least partially by his letter to the Premier dated February 25, 2013.

The letter from Minister Simmonds contains both good news and bad news.

The bad news is for the first time in history of the Turks and Caicos Islands the Governor has not assented to a bill passed by the House of Assembly.

I think this sets a very unfortunate precedent.

The good news is that VAT will not be implemented on April 1.

This gives us hope.

I note the conditions in the letter from Minister Simmonds and specifically the spending reductions.

I assume that the immediate disbanding of the VAT support regime and the cost of salaries for positions that no longer exist, such as the Commissioner for VAT, will go some way to meeting the spending reductions.

I am hopeful that the local employees can be reassigned, but there is no reason at all that the expensive expatiates brought in to run VAT need to stay.

SPACE IS LIMITED!

As much as I feel sympathy for the individuals who were promised employment M i n i s t e r Simmonds has been very clear that we need to take "steps to constrain expenditure" so the jobs need to go, as does the contract for the computer installation again in the interests of constraining expenditure.

Confirmation of these immediate savings from the Minister of Finance and the CFO would alleviate any fears that the Government is still supporting a VAT unit despite the

undertaking of Minister Simmonds.

It is obvious that the TCIG budget for 2013/14 should not contain any appropriations for a VAT unit or support system and I certainly would not support such a budget.

Over the last four years I have heard a lot about the importance of prudent financial management, Minister Simmonds’ letter refers to "responsible financial management" and that TCIG will be held responsible for "sound finance".

I am a great believer in responsible financial management, which is why I would say it was irresponsible of the interim administration to incur significant costs on the VAT experiment knowing the widespread public and

political opposition.

The expenditure was a significant waste of taxpayers' money, our money, my money!

Had we not spent this money it would have meant less expenditure to "constrain".

The British Government is very fond of lecturing local politicians on financial prudence and financial accountability, perhaps we should expect no less from their own appointees.

Yours, J O Connolly The Honorable Josephine Connolly Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Turks and Caicos Islands

Please keep your letters to a maximum of 450 words or we may not be able publish it.

12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

Simmonds calls for House PDM raises concerns of Assembly to condemn about polling stations ‘vitriolic public attacks’

BY VANESSA NARINE MINISTER Mark Simmonds called for members of the House of Assembly to condemn what he called “vitriolic public attacks” in the past weeks on the judiciary and public servants in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He said in his February 25 letter: “I am sure that you [the Premier] share my disappointment at the vitriolic public attacks in the past weeks on the judiciary and public servants on TCI. “We [the UK] look to you, your colleagues and all Members of the House of Assembly to condemn this and work actively for political debate that does not take such an unacceptable form.”

In response, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, said the Minister ought to have specified the “attacks” to which he referred.

He said: “You have invited the members of the Assembly to condemn what you describe as ‘vitriolic public attacks’ on members of the judiciary and public servants.

“I do not know what it is you describe as vitriolic public attacks as you have provided no example.

“In any event I am sure that like me, my colleagues in the House would be slow to take any position that would leave any person in this country feeling that they are unable to comment on matters of public importance or to be critical of any institution or public officer.

“The concept of free speech is a bastion of democracy. It is a check and balance against tyranny.

“The essential ideal of selfgovernment by the people is undermined if those in power are able to manipulate the electorate by either withholding information or stifling criticism.

Minister Mark Simmonds

“It was the English author Edward Bulwer-Lytton who wrote: ‘Beneath the rule of men entirely great. The pen is mightier than the sword.’

“It is therefore no wonder that the right of free speech has been described as ‘a safety valve to let off steam when people might otherwise

VAT repeal process circumvented due process, Simmonds MINISTER Mark Simmonds has criticised the manner in which the 2012 Value Added Tax (VAT) legislation was repealed, saying members of the House of Assembly dodged due process.

He said in his February 25 letter: “I should also make clear that the use of a Private Member’s Bill as a device to avoid discussion in Cabinet and to circumvent due process in the Attorney General’s office is not acceptable.”

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, in response, told the Weekly News that

Judicial review to increase the max age limit for taxi drivers AN APPLICATION has been made for the judiciary to review the Road Safety Regulations with a view to increase the maximum age limit for public service vehicle operators from 75 to 80-years-old.

The application was made on the basis that the 75-year limit was discriminatory.

On Wednesday, Cabinet considered a proposal to amend the Road Safety Regulations to increase the maximum age limit.

However, it decided to postpone consideration of this pending the result of an application for judicial review.

be bent on revolution’.”

The Premier added that those who abuse the right of free speech open themselves to criminal prosecution or civil suits and the courts are best suited to determine what laws were breached or not breached.

“The courts in my view are best suited to determine whether laws have been breached or whether unabashed but otherwise lawful criticism is being characterised as vitriolic public attack,” Ewing said.

Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, echoed similar thoughts.

She told the Weekly News that persons in public life should expect criticism.

Cartwright-Robinson said: “Any distasteful attack I will condemn, but when a person is in public life they will be scrutinized because this is how they are kept accountable and I make no apology for that.”

Member of the Taxi Drivers Association Executive and former president, Toussaint Capron, explained that the sentiments of the association’s membership are mixed on the issue.

He said: “Some of the drivers, the ones closer to 75, feel that once someone is healthy and able they should allowed to work.

Others feel that 75 is time to retire and allow new persons to come on.”

Capron told the Weekly News that for the year two drivers reached 75-years-old and left while there are about six other members who are close to the current maximum age.

while Simmonds has his views, the bigger issue at stake was not VAT, but rather democracy in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He said: “The intention of the Private Member’s Bill is to allow bills to be brought to the House that may not enjoy the support of the Government.

“In this case [with VAT] the Government was the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Governor.

“The Governor, who is head of Cabinet, would not have put such a matter on the Cabinet’s agenda.

“The Private Member’s Bill came from a non-Cabinet member Mr. Norman Saunders, who is the only member that can bring a Private Member’s Bill. A Government member cannot bring forward a Private Member’s Bill.”

Ewing stressed that the House of Assembly majority was united in the fight against VAT and against the attack on democracy.

Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, also weighed in on the issue and pointed out that the Government chose to support backbencher, Norman Saunders, who supported the Opposition’s motion to repeal VAT. She said: “Because it was our motion, it did not have to pass through Cabinet, which was one of the points Minster Simmonds made, that it should have been discussed in Cabinet.”

VAT was repealed in a 16 to two vote in the House of Assembly on February 1. (VANESSA NARINE)

DEPUTY Leader of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), Sean Astwood, raised several concerns about having two polling stations in operation come March 22.

The elections office announced that there will be two stations, one at the Gustarvus Lighbourne Centre and one at the Providenciales Community College.

Voters with last names A to L are expected to vote at Gustarvus Lighbourne Centre, while those with names M to Z will vote at the college.

At a press conference on Wednesday, the Deputy Leader explained that his party’s concerns were communicated to Governor Ric Todd and Supervisor of Elections, Dudley Lewis.

According to him, the Gustarvus Lighbourne Centre is adequate as the only polling station.

Astwood reasoned that given the dynamics of the upcoming byelection it would be much easier to host voters at one location.

He pointed to the fact that the management of the election will be difficult, resources will be stretched, and lighting at the Gustarvus Lighbourne Centre is better, as is access since provisions for parking are already there.

Astwood added that voters will only be making one vote for their district candidate, not the At-Large candidates as well, therefore the time spent at a polling station will be less.

Party Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, made it clear that the PDM will not have a repeat of what happened in the past, referencing past inconsistencies with the election process.

“We will have PDM teams on the ground,” she posited.

The Weekly News spoke to the Elections Supervisor, Dudley Lewis, who said: “As Supervisor of Elections, I feel that we should have two polling stations. This way we would be able to better control the flow of people.

“With just one polling station we will have a large congregation of people and will end up with the same complaints we heard during the November 9 polls.”

On the question of security, Lewis assured that this police officers working on that day understand the importance of ensuring free and fair elections.

“Security should not be a problem,” the Elections Supervisor said. (VANESSA NARINE)

Statement of governance principles vague, Cartwright Robinson THE Progressive National Party’s (PNP) Statement of Governance Principles is “too vague”, according to Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, moved a motion during the House of Assembly’s Friday sitting to defer its consideration.

According to him, the Leader of the Opposition still has to provide her comments on the statement before it is considered by the House.

However, Cartwright-Robinson told the Weekly News that the governance principles are general and new policies would have to be developed to guide their practical application.

She explained that as the principles stand, they are open to wide subjective interpretation and in the interest of transparent, honest and accountable governance, the governance principles need to be clearer.

Last December Cabinet agreed that the statement of governance principles will be presented early 2013 to the House of Assembly for consideration, as required by the Constitution.

Opposition Leader Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

The House of Assembly is expected to consider the statement of governance principles at its next sitting.

The 2011 Constitution states that all future incoming administrations must agree on their own statements of Governance Principles with the House of Assembly and the United Kingdom (UK) Foreign Secretary.

(VANESSA NARINE)

March 2 - 8, 2013

Cartwright-Robinson criticises Gov’t approach to unemployment LEADER of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, at a press conference on Wednesday, criticised the Government’s approach to tacking the unemployment issue, saying there have been no real efforts.

She said: “Our people remain without jobs and without real opportunities to obtain jobs and to move up in their work place.

“This Government continues to pay lip service to jobs while our people are sleeping in darkness and cannot feed their families.

“After three months, no real effort or steps have been taken and the people of this country are disappointed that jobs are not a priority for this Government.”

With the by-election around the corner and the looming possibility of a change in government, the Opposition Leader stated that her party is committed to reducing the level of unemployment, as well as creation of additional jobs.

“We rest on our plans contained in our Blue Print and are ready to take office and govern from day one,” she said.

The Weekly News spoke to Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, on Thursday and he responded to

NEWS 13

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

the criticisms by pointing out that it is easy to criticise when one is on the other side.

He said: “The assertion that nothing is being done is absolutely untrue.

“One of the largest employers in the TCI, besides Government, is Beaches and the Labour Department has been working tireless with them, forcing them to host job fairs.

“Since we have been in Government there have already been four or five job fairs.

“The uptake is another issue we have to tackle to understand why persons are not taking up the posts.

“There are a lot of persons whose names are down for interviews, but they do not turn up, and what we need to do is understand why they are not turning up.”

Ewing added that the Ministry of Labour is streamlining the information they have to better assess the situation.

“It has only been three months,” he said, “We are also tackling the problem by way of encouraging investment to create new jobs.”

According to the Premier, change takes time and his Government is working to address pressing issues.

(VANESSA NARINE)

Premier assures that there will be no public spending cuts are.

BY VANESSA NARINE THE non-implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) hinged on the alternative presented to Minister Mark Simmonds by the current Government, which was a recommendation for limited expenditure in the new financial year.

With the refusal of the proposed alternatives, Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, in his January 29 letter to Simmonds, recommended limited expenditure, while putting in place other alternative revenue measures.

On Wednesday at a press conference, Ewing put to rest speculations that limited expenditure meant that there will be cuts to public expenditure expressed in the budget.

He explained that the 2013/2014 budget will only be slightly increased from what the 2012/2013 budget is – limited expenditure.

Other revenue raising measures, according to him, will be implemented come April 1 this year and the new budget will be reviewed on a quarterly basis.

The Premier stated that depending on the success of those revenue raising measures, his Government will go to the House of Assembly and request that supplementary spending be approved to meet the people’s need for additional public expenditure in different areas.

In the House of Assembly on February 1, when the motion to repeal VAT was moved, Finance Minister, Washington Misick, explained that rather that raising taxes on the people of the TCI,

Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing

the alternatives his Government is looking at focus on expanding and increasing the accommodation tax base, the introduction of land levies, a two dollar increase for at the cruise ports, enforcement in the customs department and compliance in other areas such as business licensing.

In total, Misick maintained that modelling of these revenue alternatives indicate an estimated $16.3m increase in revenues, far exceeding the $10m revenue target the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) pegged VAT to bring in.

TRANSPARENCY Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, weighed in on the issue on Wednesday at a press conference.

She said: “In the interest of transparency and good governance we need to know what the areas where the spending will be restricted

“We are also aware that the Government in the last Cabinet meeting in January agreed to restrict expenditure and in the House of Assembly Meeting of February 1.

“Our colleague, the Honourable Derek Taylor, led our position on the issue and made inquiries as to the areas that will be affected by the Government’s decision to accept this path.

“We again in the interest of transparency now call on the Government to inform the people of this country as to the areas that will be affected.”

She stressed that there must be real efforts to grow the economy and to market the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“The PDM remains committed to this and believes that there must be a meeting of the minds and supporting legislations must be put in place to make TCI more inviting,” Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said.

The Fiscal Strategic Policy Statement (FSPS), the framework within which the 2013/2014 Budget is prepared, will include more details on the Government’s plan for the country’s finances.

The current administration submitted a FSPS with the Premier’s January 29 letter to Simmonds.

However, given that no decision was made on VAT by the UK, the document contained projections that catered for VAT. The FSPS is being revised and is expected to be completed soon and sent to the UK for approval.

Simmonds’ decision a common sense solution, Slattery THE Turks and Caicos Islands Business Council (TCIBC) welcomed the decision by Minister Mark Simmonds to not implement Value Added Tax (VAT).

And Dr. Sam Slattery, a member of the council, said the end result of the lobbying against the new tax regime was a common sense decision.

At a press conference on Wednesday, he thanked the supporters of the anti-VAT campaign and commended local politicians for their “political fortitude”.

According to him, the debate on both sides was civilised, albeit difficult, and made it clear that at the end of the day it came down to local politicians following democratic principles to carry the mandate of

the people.

He stated that moving forward he wants to see the Government acting responsibly, the TCI meeting its financial obligations and the TCI advancing as a country.

Also present was member, Ron Burchill, who said the council has met with both the Opposition and the Government to discuss alternative means of raising revenue and the options presented are viable ones.

He stressed that the solutions that are being sought have to be simple and inexpensive – something VAT was not.

Burchill noted that businesses are doing their share by paying their taxes.

However, he stressed that Government can help the business

Members of the TCIBC, from left, Drexwell Seymour, Ron Burchill and Dr. Sam Slattery

community in terms of revenue raising, by improving the efficiency of their Revenue Control mechanism, which currently makes handing

money over to the Government a lengthy and cumbersome process.

Another member, Drexwell Seymour, noted that the council

was formed for the sole purpose of fighting VAT and will continue to address related concerns.

(VANESSA NARINE)

14 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

Smart Entrepreneurship this week

Friday, February 29 to Saturday, March 1 Friday, February 29

 Danny Buoy’s is Provo’s premier live music and sports destination, serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30am. It is the perfect place to escape from the heat and hang with friends, all in smoke free airconditioned comfort. Happy Hour specials from 4-7pm MondaySaturday

 Get into the weekend mood with the intense and electrifying Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm. Free for fitness members, $12 for non-members.

Visit www.gracewaysports.com for more information or call 4426349.  Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 946-8666 for details

Saturday, March 1  If you are looking for a serene and relaxed way of starting your weekend, bring your yoga mat at Graceway Sports Centre every Saturday at 9am and let David Bowen lead you into the wonderful world of yoga! Amazing fees for

an amazing class! More info at 442-6348.  Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at Graceway Sports Centre for mothers and their little ones.

Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake!

Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome!

Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

Be your own customer for a day LIKE a typical commercial area anywhere in the world, there are certain areas on Providenciales that are buzzing with activity at certain times of the day or week. What is noticeable is that there is usually a certain business(s), a particular restaurant or a particular store that is nearly always full or has a queue of people waiting to be served.

As an Entrepreneur you may be asking yourself why some businesses seem so busy and others have difficulty keeping up with demand from their customers?

What sets these businesses apart is almost certainly down to one factor: they offer a standard of service that is totally customer-focused.

In other words, they offer a service that is efficient, convenient and completely satisfying, or they offer an enjoyable experience.

A business encounter so pleasurable that their customers will go there over and over again, and will urge all their friends and acquaintances to do the same.

Despite the fact that our market is competitive, so many Entrepreneurs are not satisfying their customers to a level where they refuse to look at their enterprises in the same way that their customers do.

I want to throw out the challenge to be your own customer for a day. This

Got an event you wish to advertise?

Call us on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com for a free listing.

Your event listed here!

By Sophia Thomas

Business Consultant and Trainer

its service: Are all your staff knowledgeable and helpful to your customers?

Do your staff understand how to listen to your customers' needs?

Do your staff understand what they are selling?

Do your staff and your business appear to be an authority on what they are selling?

Is your reception area tidy and wellorganised?

Do your customers ever have to wait an unreasonable amount of time to be served or to have their enquiry dealt with?

Do the employees who answer the phone do so in a professional, friendly and consistent manner?

Are your premises, or the parts of your premises that customers visit, impeccably clean at all times?

Do you, your business and all your staff operate a 'service culture' that will go that extra mile to help, please and astound your customers?

Give this a try by putting yourself in your customers' shoes for a day. You'll almost certainly be surprised by what you see.

For further information or assistance, you may contact 231-2486 or email: fenelonempowerment@ yahoo.com

autism awareness

Sunday, March 10 Come down to Bugaloo's in Five Cays to become part of an internet dance craze!

The official Harlem Shake TCI will be filmed on the beach and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

Join us from 12.30pm when we will begin practise for the short video shoot.

Bring silly costumes, masks, flags and lots of colour...but most importantly be ready to dance!

Special guest David Bowen and his Maskanoo band will be in attendance.

will help in planning ways to improve your service - and hence improve your sales.

If we genuinely want to maximise our customer sales potential, we regularly need to look at your business as if we were a customer.

How should you do this?

There are a few simple ways that you can experience what it's like to be a customer of your own. For example: You could talk to your staff about your products and services.

You could send away for your own information.

You could buy your own product from your online store.

You could visit and download pages from your own website.

You could walk into your own shop or restaurant as if you were a visitor, and try to see things as they would see them.

By doing this, you will spot ways that your standards of service could be improved.

If you operate in a highly competitive business sector (of course we all do), the more you can improve your service and make it a pleasant experience for customers to do business with you, the more they will take out their wallets in your premises or store.

Here are a few questions and pointers to consider that will help any small business improve the standard of

Spectrum of hope – By Nicole Cox

Deeper down the rabbit hole Part Two WHAT is Sensory Integration (SI)?

It is the process by which information from our senses (touch, sight, hearing, taste, smell, as well as balance) is interpreted by the brain so that we can respond appropriately to our environment.

A child with good SI automatically filters the important from the unimportant stimuli as she makes her way through the world. At school, she sits alert at her desk without thinking about her posture. She pays attention to the teacher and filters out the noise of children in the hallway. On the street, she ignores the booming car radios and honking horns, and the itch of her wool sweater, but attends to the sound of the bus turning the corner, “telling” her to wait before crossing the street.

For some children with sensory processing disorder, information reaching the senses often feels like an assault of competing stimuli.

To get the idea, imagine this scenario: Three children are telling you conflicting stories about who had the toy, the phone is ringing, and you suddenly smell the cake burning in the oven -- and did I mention the itchy

rash on your legs? For others, outside stimuli are dulled, as if a shade has been pulled over the environment, muting sights, sounds, and touch.

These children crave extra stimulation to arouse themselves -- similar to needing the jolt of a wake-up shower after a sleepless night. These are the kids who love to spin and swing upside down. Most children with SPD display elements of both extremes, suffering from sensory overload at some times, seeking stimulation at others. It’s not difficult to see how the symptoms -- distractibility, the need for intense activity, problems with social interactions -- could seem like ADHD. A child playing in a sandbox can ignore the sweat trickling down her face and neck because she loves the sandbox, and there’s a breeze to cool her off a little.

A child with SPD cannot ignore anything -- the sweat is distracting and irritating, and the wind makes her feel worse, not better. Lacking an inner ability to cope with these irritations, she may kick the sand in frustration and lash out at her playmates, ruining her playtime and her entire afternoon. The bad feelings stay with her long after the physical triggers are gone. Children

with SPD can be frustrating to parents and teachers, but their behavior is most frustrating to the children themselves. A. Jean Ayres, the groundbreaking occupational therapist who first described SI dysfunction more than 40 years ago, likened it to having “a traffic jam in the brain.” Who is at risk?

Most people develop normal sensory functioning, but some experts believe that the process goes awry in as many as 10 per cent of children.

As with ADD/ADHD, the causes can be unclear and may be genetic, but there are extrinsic factors that may put children at particular risk for SPD. These include maternal deprivation, and propping bottles for feeding deprive the infant of premature birth, prenatal malnutrition, and early institutional care. Bundling, minimal handling, the kinds of stimulation that promote integration of the senses.

Such factors may explain why the incidence of SPD is higher among children who were adopted from orphanages. Repeated ear infections before age two may also increase the risk factor.”

(Part three next week)

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Five Cays Police Station

NEWS 15

The Clement Howell High school

School boy hospitalised after violent attack at Clement Howell

BY DAISY HANDFIELD

A 16-year-old student from Clement Howell High School was brutally beaten by four boys on Monday.

Following the attack at the school the teen was rushed to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre for urgent treatment where he is recovering.

According to family members, the student suffered from a torn kidney and a blood clot in his liver, and doctors are monitoring his progress to decide whether or not he will have to undergo surgery.

The boy was allegedly bleeding through his liver and was on drips for the first few days.

The culprits, who are also students of the school, were suspended for three days and arrested by the authorities.

The boys, two aged 16 and two aged 17, were later released on Wednesday from the Five Cays Police Station with orders to return on March 11.

According to the victim’s grandmother this was not the first time that her grandson was attacked by boys from his school.

But this time when he was on the ground fighting for his life, one of the boys threw a rock at him, which hit him on his side.

She said: “About three to four weeks ago my grandson was attacked on the school bus by six to seven boys.

“One of the boys slapped him and the others ripped his uniform shirt apart and beat him up on the bus.

“After attacking him, the boys told him that he was not from Five

Political parties receive guidance notes from Integrity Commission POLITICAL parties, in preparing for the March 22 by-elections, received guidance notes from the Integrity Commission on the reporting requirements for candidates fielded by the parties in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills electoral district.

The guidance notes covered donation and expenditure limits permitted during the by-election period and the reporting requirements following the election.

They also covered the requirements in respect of notices to be submitted to the commission by nominated candidates and the subsequent declarations which will need to be filed by the successful candidate thereafter.

Director of the Integrity Commission, Eugene Otuonye, said: “This is an important by-election for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the commission is conscious of the relatively short

timeframe available to the parties.

“It is with this in mind that the commission has sought to minimise the burden placed on parties and candidates during this period and also to ensure transparency and consistency in the process.”

According to him, the reporting requirements should not place any significant additional burden on the parties or individual candidates, as it is already a requirement under Section 12 of the Political Activities Ordinance for the parties to keep daily donation and expenditure information throughout the financial year.

The guidance notes are available to the wider public through this release and accessible on the commission’s page of the Government website: www.gov.tc.

Hard-copies can also be obtained at the commission’s office in Grand Turk.

Cays, and that he should be riding the Kewtown bus because that’s where he was from.”

The grandmother noted that she did not hear about the first attack directly from her grandson because he was afraid to tell her.

He shared the abuse with her eldest son via BBM, in confidentiality.

The boy was staying in Five Cays with his mother, but, after the grandmother was told about the first attack by her eldest son, she moved him back to her home in Kewtown, where he was previously staying.

The boy’s grandmother said: “It is not that the securities are not competent but they do require a bit more training when dealing with breaking up fights and handling those kids.

“When there is a fight, the securities don’t have any sort of weapon to break up these fights.

“Something has to be done before something more serious happens.”

The victim’s mother said she could not find the words to express how angry she was.

“I feel terrible because I don’t know what drove those students to beat my son like that, he isn’t a troublesome person,” she said.

“The first time they jumped him on the bus, I made a report but no names were called and now this time they hospitalised him.”

Principal of the Clement Howell High School, Gerald Persuad, said that he and the vice principal visited the student on Wednesday morning.

Persuad said: “It is very saddening that things like this continue to happen.

“When we conducted our investigation on Monday, we found out that the boys were plotting this attack from last week.

“The boys were all given three days suspension, starting Monday.

Based on the outcome of the police matter, further action will be taken.”

Weekly News asked Persuad what action the school is taking to prevent bullying and he said: “We are trying to find out exactly when the bullying is taking place and depending on the severity of the case, sometimes we may suspend them or take more drastic measures.

“The only way we can get these matters resolved is with a collaborative effort from the school, teachers and the general public.”

Although the boys completed their three days suspension, the matter is in the hands of the police and they will not be allowed back in school until further notice.

The Weekly News will continue to follow up on this case.

VAT investment will not be wasted, Ewing THE cost of implementing Value Added Tax (VAT) will not be wasted, according to Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing at a press conference on Tuesday.

He maintained that his Government intends to redirect the investment for the implementation of the tax regime.

Ewing said staff employed for the VAT Unit will be redirected to the Revenue Control Unit, given that the old tax system will stay in force and compliance is a problem.

As to the other investments, the Premier stated that his Government will try to get some benefit from those.

Details on costs were explored during a meeting between the Appropriations Committee and officials involved in the

implementation of the new tax regime on January 23.

The committee’s report underscored the fact that there was no set budget for the implementation of VAT, although monies were being spent – a source of concern for committee members.

The cost of additional staff for the VAT Unit was found to be included under the Revenue Control Unit in the current budget.

Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary, Athenee Harvey, also told the committee that the estimated cost associated with manpower was $459,380.

However, to date, some $357,032 had already been spent and an additional $189,389 estimated to cover staff costs for

the next three months.

Harvey also told the committee that travel, training, accommodation and promotional items amounted to $65,814.04, with an additional $100,000 to be spent by the end of the current financial year.

Additionally, the TCI Government signed a $500,000 contract with Sogema on January 17 for a new software system to help implement and monitor VAT. Coordinator of the VAT Unit, Dorika Talbot, added that the additional costs for undergoing monthly support had not yet been supplied or agreed.

Detailed statements of expenditures during the implementation process have still not yet been made public.

(VANESSA NARINE)

Lifestyle...

16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

fitness Tip 

Dr. Joe LeMoine, is an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician. He has worked with many international athletes and at many sporting events on the world stage. He currently practices in Providenciales, at Prime Sports Medicine.

Exercise makes economic sense FOR many people, these are more frugal days than we have experienced over the last few decades. People are looking at varios aspects of their lifestlye and how it affects their finances.

So let's take a look at exercise and fitness from an economic prespective.

Exercise is an Investment Declaring that exercise is an investment in your health is rather obvious. But what about the pocket book.

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician Dr. Joe LeMoine

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, inactivity costs an indivdual an average in excess of $1,500 per year.

By staying fit you spend less on healthcare down the road.

Exercise may Decrease Insurance Costs Just as insurance companies charge lower rates for not smoking, some

Orange Dream Punch

An easy to make punch, that is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients: • 1/2 gallon orange sherbet • 1 (6 ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate • 1 (2 liter) bottle ginger ale Directions: 1. Place sherbet and frozen orange juice concentrate in a punch bowl.

2. Allow to thaw for 10 to 15 minutes.

3. Stir in ginger ale.

now will decrease your rate for maintaining a healthy body weight.

Your gym fees could pay off in insurance savings.

Exercise has Entertainment Value The last century has seen a significant decrease in hours worked and more liesure time. Exercise and sports

Exercise on a Budget Of course exercise can be free.

Just go out and do it.

Some sports however do require some equipment, look for equipment in classified ads, garage sales or online.

This is a great way to deal children who are rapidly changing size.

Enrollment fees for childrens sports can sometimes be subsidized by the organization or another third party.

In hard economic times it may be necessary to tweak some of your sporting choices, but in the long run staying fit really does pay off.

It is also a very good source of B-complex vitamins such as thiamin, pyridoxine, and folates.

These vitamins are essential in the sense that body requires them from external sources to replenish.

Orange fruit also contains a very good amount of minerals like potassium and calcium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure through countering sodium actions.

Citrus fruits, as such, have long been valued for their wholesome nutritious and antioxidant properties.

It is scientifically established that

citrus fruits, especially oranges, by virtue of their richness in vitamins and minerals, have many proven health benefits. Moreover, it is now beginning to be appreciated that the other biologically active, non-nutrient compounds in the citrus fruits such as phyto-chemical antioxidants, soluble and insoluble dietary fiber helps in cutting risk for cancers, chronic diseases like arthritis, obesity, and coronary heart diseases.

This fruit contains an impressive list of essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals for normal growth and development and overall well-being.

participation is a great individual and family entertainment value.

health Tip 

Another look at oranges Juicy and sweet and renowned for its concentration of vitamin C, oranges make the perfect snack and add a special tang to many recipes; it is no wonder that they are one of the most popular fruits in the world.

Nutrients in oranges are plentiful and diverse. The fruit is low in calories, contains no saturated fats or cholesterol, but is rich in dietary fiber, pectin, which is very effective in persons with excess body weight. Pectin, by its action as a bulk laxative, helps to protect the mucous membrane of the colon by decreasing its exposure time to toxic substances as well as by binding to cancer-causing chemicals in the colon. Pectin has also been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels by decreasing its re-absorption in the colon by binding to bile acids in the colon.

Oranges, like other citrus fruits,

is an excellent source of vitamin C; Vitamin C is a powerful natural antioxidant. Consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful, proinflammatory free radicals from the blood.

Oranges also contain very good levels of vitamin A, and other flavonoid antioxidants such as alpha andbeta-carotenes, betacryptoxanthin, zea-xanthin and lutein. These compounds are known to have antioxidant properties.

Vitamin A is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin and is essential for vision. Consumption of natural fruits rich in flavonoids helps the body to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.

March 2 - 8, 2013

Lifestyle...

GARDENING 

17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

How does your garden grow

YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Tamika graduated from Florida International University in Miami with a Masters degree in Dietetics & Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licensed to practice medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida.

Email Tamika via tcweeklynews@gmail.com or tamikahandfield@yahoo.com with your healthy eating questions.

Are you lucky enough to have one of these plants in your garden?

Tree of life IF YOU happen to look into the bush and see a tree with purple flowers, it could be a lignum vitae.

The name means ‘long life’ in Latin which is why it is commonly referred to as the ‘tree of life’.

This tree is very slow growing with extremely hard, heavy, resinous wood with many special uses.

In the past it was used to make ball bearings because of its extremely high resin.

Another place that lignum vitae was used was in courtrooms, where the judge's gavel was traditionally made from its fine wood.

It is a hard, dense and durable wood which easily sinks in water. It ranks as the second hardest of all the trade woods.

Lignum vitae bark mixed with mauby bark has been used in traditional bush medicine as an aid in relieving the symptoms of fish poisoning.

As well, tea made from the flowers and leaves is reputed to be an excellent energy restorative.

Elsewhere, there is abundant anecdotal evidence that the resins of the lignum vitae are effective anti-inflammatory agents and have been used to treat arthritis, gout and sciatica.

The collecting of this valuable and endangered plant has led to its disappearance in most parts of its original habitat and now that it is rare and endangered it is protected in some areas other than Turks and Caicos.

Therefore, we should be aware of how very lucky we are to have this native plant growing most everywhere in the Islands.

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR For all your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs, please call or write for a free estimate: 332-3381 or naturesplendor@yahoo.com

The blooming season is February and March but with good fertilisation the blooming season will lengthen for a few months and encourage the growth rate.

The plant’s blue flower is a rare and esteemed colour in the landscape.

It is recognised as a star-shaped, fivepetalled flower, three quarters of an inch across and appears single or in clusters at the ends of the branches.

The yellowish fruits split and expose red flesh and black seeds which, with its growing rate and a lot of patience, is the way to propagate this tree The evergreen leaves are

compound, with three to five pairs of shiny, dark green, oval, pointed leaflets, each about one inch long.

This tree could reach up to 30 feet tall but you will mostly see some that are about 10 to 15 feet tall.

It is best to plant lignum vitae in tropical seaside settings. It is resistant to salt spray and tolerant to drought, so it is a good choice for dry, sandy soils.

The lignum vitae is impossible to be transplanted from its natural soil. It is therefore important that we should protect them if we are fortunate enough to have one on our property.

Fiber and Heart

WE have been talking about various foods and nutrients that can offer health benefits in helping to keep a healthy heart. This week we continue with the same theme as get ready for National Nutrition Month coming in March.

The heart is a very important organ; therefore, great care must be taken to ensure we have a healthy heart for many years to come.

One way we can care for our heart is by eating more fiber. I know you have heard various health professionals say, “You need to eat more fiber,” but that’s about all they tell us.

How much fiber do I need? Will any type of fiber work? Which foods are high in fiber? Are just some of the questions you may have.

As it turns out, all kinds of fiber are useful to the body; however, there is a difference in which body part finds the fiber useful.

The two kinds of fiber are soluble and insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber is mainly useful for maintaining gut health and keeping us regular by forming bulk. It is mainly found in whole grains and vegetables.

On the other hand, soluble fiber, the fiber that helps prevent heart disease, plays a major role in eliminating the bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) from our arteries by forming a gel and attaching itself to the LDL cholesterol then eliminating it as waste.

You will remember from previous articles, that there is good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). The bad guy (LDL) clogs up our arteries and blood vessels preventing blood flow to and from our heart. An analogy is the plumbing in your house; if there is a blockage in your pipes, your water flow may slow down or stop or the blockage can create intense pressure causing the pipes to leak or even burst.A littler Liquid Plumber may have prevented a major catastrophe. The same applies to soluble fiber and maintaining your heart health.

It is recommended that we get between 25-38 grams of fiber per day; however American statistics show that most adults get only 15g/ day on average. Obviously these numbers are based on the general population; therefore, you may need more or less based on you.

Sources of soluble fiber: oatmeal, oat cereal, lentils, apples, oranges, pears, oat bran, strawberries, nuts, flaxseeds, beans, dried peas, blueberries, psyllium, cucumbers, celery, and carrots.

For help on increasing your fiber intake and lowering your cholesterol, please contact me for an appointment.

ACCU Medical Nutrition is based at Provo Plaza (old Pizza Pizza Building) No. 5, Providenciales.

Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.

18 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Jermell Williams to debut new collection at LA fashion week LOCAL fashion designer, Jermell Williams, will debut his Spring/ Summer ’13 designs at the Siren Studios in Los Angeles, California on March 9.

Speaking on his invitation to showcase his designs at LA Fashion Week, an ecstatic Williams said: “This is the perfect opportunity to market the ‘Jeritt Jermell’ brand to an international audience and create brand awareness.

“I’m excited and truly overwhelmed to show the world what I have to offer.”

‘The Kaleidoscope Collection’ is described as bold, chic, elegant and definitely sexy.

Williams said: “My Spring/ Summer ’13 collection was inspired by the colours I live around daily.

“I dreamt of an outburst of colours in the sky and how beautiful a sight it was, so I quickly took charge and began sketching.

“I worked with a lot of bright colours. I also went crazy with geometric shapes and abstract prints.”

He continued: “My cousin who’s also a big fashion inspiration in my life helped me to agree on the name Kaleidoscope.

“My Kaleidoscope collection consists of both male and female clothing that will be hot trends for the upcoming Spring/Summer season that I can’t wait for the world to see.”

The event will also feature buyers from top fashion boutiques and department stores such as Macy’s, Barney’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue, important event producers, bloggers, photographers and media outlets from around the world, including Vogue, Vogue Italia, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, W Magazine, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, E! News,

Local fashion designer Jermell Williams

Extra! and MTV. Jermell plans to network with all media outlets, buyers, event producers and other designers while at LA Fashion Week. Meet and greet sessions and interviews are already arranged.

Williams said: “I couldn’t get this far if it wasn’t for the Lord’s help for which I am so thankful.

“I also express sincere gratitude to my supporters, my team at ‘The Scene TCI’ who have lots in store for the Turks and Caicos, and the organisers of LA Fashion Week for considering my talents and offering me such an opportunity of great magnitude.”

Los Angeles Fashion Week 2013 collections and events are slated for March 6 to 17 at venues across Los Angeles.

Some designers will choose to show at a pre-established L.A. Fashion Week venue, others will show at a private venue on their own.

LA Fashion Week is sponsored by a number of businesses that hire up-

and-coming fashion designers.

The Concept Los Angeles show will take place in its new home at Siren Studios, in the heart of Hollywood, the land of dreams and the modern mecca of marketing that has become so important to Los Angeles and beyond.

The aim of Concept is to continue to merge entertainment with some of the most relevant Fashion Designers, Artists and Musicians of the moment. The bi-annual fashion week events offer an innovative twoday-program of international runway shows, informal presentations, artistic installations and crossover music events.

Created and curated by Fashion insiders, the objective is to change the landscape of fashion events by incorporating the synergy of fashion, art, music and entertainment.

The local designer is expected to debut ‘The Kaleidoscope Collection’ in Providenciales at a grand fashion show scheduled for June 2013.

Miss TCI Universe contestants begin ‘Rock it Hot’ fitness training THE Miss Turks and Caicos Universe Beauty Organisation continued to make good on its promise to rebrand the beauty pageant.

The sizzling six are being exposed to all facets of grooming: beauty, health and now fitness.

Natasha Leybush of Rock It Hot Fitness Centre has partnered to provide essential training for the ladies.

Rock It Hot Fitness is now the official fitness centre of the Miss Turks and Caicos Universe Beauty Organisation.

During the weekly Sunday session, Leybush outlined a schedule that meets the need for each contestant.

The beauties are expected to dedicate their time and energy

Insurance.

During the Wellness Fair, employees tested their blood pressure, verified if their body weight was in proportion to their height and age (Body Mass Index) and checked their blood glucose levels.

Massage therapists were also present at the event, providing body massages for the employees at a dollar per minute.

Grant-Higgs said: “The staff will know what they need to do to maintain healthy living and not only does it help the employees but it also helps the bank to get more productivity out of the staff.”

The Wellness Fair, according to the human resources manager, will be a more frequent event, at least twice a year.

and adjust their diets in order to become toned, sleek and fit for the stage.

Each contestant is eager to follow the regiment that includes tae-bo and other gruelling workout exercises.

They all accept that hard work and determination will pay off.

Leybush said: “President Kazz Forbes has selected a group of naturally beautiful (by nature) ladies. They must now do the work of getting rid of unwanted impediments.”

President and managing director of Miss Turks and Caicos Universe Beauty Organisation, Kazz Forbes, said that he is confident that Leybush will bring out the best in each contestant.

Man gets five years for rape A MAN was sentenced to five years in jail for the rape of a woman in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Judge Joan Joyner delivered the sentence to Wesley Neat at Providenciales Supreme Court on Wednesday, February 27.

Following a week-long trial he was found guilty of unlawful carnal knowledge.

The case was heard in camera – a legal term that means in private without press or public attendance.

Commonwealth Day public holiday to be observed March 25 THE Commonwealth Day public holiday, usually observed on the second Monday of March has been moved to accommodate the Richmond Hills and Cheshire Hall by-election.

The change from March 11

Scotia Bank promotes healthy living among employees SCOTIA Bank TCI encouraged their employees to live and maintain a healthy lifestyle by promoting various healthy living initiatives.

Last Saturday (February 23), the bank held a Wellness Fair outside of the main branch in Providenciales, where staff members were given the opportunity to get more familiar with their bodies.

Staffers also flew in from the nation’s capital, Grand Turk, to participate in the event.

Human resources manager for Scotia Bank, Lynette GrantHiggs, said that the bank invited various associations including the Cancer Society, the Heart Foundation, the Red Cross, the Diabetes Foundation and Colonial

March 2 - 8, 2013

Employees get in line to test their Body Mass Index (BMI)

was necessary to comply with the Elections Ordinance and the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution.

The TCI will now celebrate the 2013 Commonwealth Day public holiday on March 25.

March 2 - 8, 2013

NEWS 19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Prison Service extends award scheme – Sylvester Thomas named officer of the year HER Majesty’s Prison Service, last Tuesday (February 12) extended its award scheme and named Sylvester Thomas as officer of the year.

This is the the latest initiative to recognise and reward service and dedication among its members and build on the quarterly service recognition that is already in place.

Officer Thomas received the most nominations from his peers and was presented with a plaque and cash award by Governor Ric Todd.

He is regarded by his colleagues as professional, reliable, motivated and dedicated, qualities that Superintendent of Prisons Mr. Ian Sargent said authorities hope to highlight with the introduction of the Officer of the Year Award.

Sargent said: “The introduction of this prestigious honour demonstrates both the Ministry and the Prison Service’s commitment to ensure that members of staff who produce excellent standards of work are recognised and rewarded.

“These are the qualities that the management team wishes to encourage in our staff.

“We need to ensure we have processes in place to demonstrate the value we place on staff dedication, motivation and professionalism.

“The Prison Officer of the Year award allows us to recognise the hard work of prison staff.”

Minister of Environment and Home Affairs, Porsha StubbsSmith, who also presented awards to outstanding officers, said: “The introduction of this prestigious honour emphasises the Ministry’s and the prison’s commitment to

ensure that staff who demonstrate ‘excellence in service’ are recognised and duly rewarded.”

Governor Todd was pleased with this new initiative and provided sponsorship for the award.

He said: “This token of appreciation for Mr Sylvester’s work is made in recognition of his and his colleagues’ sterling efforts on behalf of the entire Turks and Caicos Islands community.

“I hope that this cheque for $500 from the Governor’s community fund proves to him that we really appreciate what he and his colleagues do for us.”

The criteria for the Prison Officer of the Year is strict and assessments are based on the candidate’s competences, professionalism, and performance of duties as well as the overall impact of the officers’ performance in the core functions of the service to carry out its national directives.

Other factors include the individual’s commitment and motivation in executing his or her responsibilities and going beyond the call of duty.

The process commences with nominations from staff and is followed by appraisal from prison management and the Ministry.

Mr. Perez Lightbourne and Officer Benicile Smith also won awards as part of the existing quarterly staff recognition scheme.

They were presented with their certificates by Minister StubbsSmith.

Nominations for Officer of the Year are accepted throughout the year.

Charge Anywhere’s mobile payment platform to be deployed in TCI CHARGE Anywhere, a leading provider of award-winning mobile platform services announced during the Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona, the signing of a distribution agreement with Islandcom Wireless.

Marketing and procurement specialist at Islandcom Wireless, Chandra Craigg, said: “Through Charge Anywhere, customers will be able to use their handsets within their business operations to complete credit card transactions by way of an application installed on their smartphone or tablet.

“Small business owners will be able to use the app for all POS

transactions while providing in the moment payment services for their customers.

“This application completely connects the customer to their banking facilitator and replaces wired credit card terminals.

“This partnership will increase productivity within the business community of the Turks and Caicos and connect them to the world.”

Charge Anywhere’s mobile payments applications are compliant with the Payment Card Industry Payment Application Data Security Standard (PADSS) and the ComsGate Payment Gateway has been Level 1 PCI DSS certified since 2004.

Governor Todd in conversation with Senior Officer William Dickenson and Officer Justin Francis at the Officer of the Year Ceremony held at HM Prison

Representatives of the CCCJ, Howard Isaacs and Gregory Fletcher, along with TCCC vice president Samuel Forbes

Workshop hosted for Community College lecturers LECTURERS from the Turks and Caicos Community College engaged in a workshop facilitated by administrators of the Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica (CCCJ).

About 18 lecturers attended the sessions held at the Providenciales campus on February 28 and March 1, and about 15 attended similar sessions earlier in Grand Turk.

CCCJ’s institutional transformation and examination officer Gregory Fletcher said: “As lecturers we have to keep ourselves relevant and current in our field…ever so often we have to refresh ourselves.”

The workshop – ‘Testing Objectively and Subjectively,’ involved “the construction of test items in a manner that it reflects the learning that we expect from our students”, explained Fletcher.

It also involved discussing ideas and techniques, and offered a platform for professional development and

exchange of information.

“The CCCJ’s mandate is to provide continuous training and ensure a high quality of education among the students and faculty particularly the facility, so that high standards can be maintained,” said vice president of the Community College, Samuel Forbes.

He added: “Part of being the best is to remain current and improving yourself. A workshop like this can help to refresh yourself and help to improve on your mistakes.”

Hoping that the college will progress to university status in the future, Forbes is pleased that they are a part of a bigger body and have access to resources that are already available.

CCCJ is responsible for the Bachelors programmes presently being offered by the college in the TCI as well as different levels of educational programmes at several other colleges in the region including

Jamaica, Anguilla and Bahamas.

Since 2011 the Community College has established a relation with the CCCJ, offering Bachelors programmes in hospitality, education and business studies.

Executive director of the CCCJ, Howard Isaacs, said: “The programmes we offer in Jamaica have merit, we have met the international standards and we felt it necessary to go beyond the boundary to reach out to our neighbours.”

He said that the students who have completed their studies in the various programmes can compete anywhere in the world and are easily accepted for the Masters programmes at the University of West Indies and other internationally recognised universities.

This workshop was the first of many that the CCCJ intends to facilitate and plans are being made to hold at least two per year to maintain a high quality of education. (KH)

20

Regional News

Bermudian government says no to same sex marriages SAME sex marriage is not on the Bermudian Government’s agenda, Community Development Minister Wayne Scott said.

Mr Scott reiterated that Government proposes to amend the Human Rights Act by adding sexual orientation to the list of prohibited categories of discrimination in the areas of the provision of goods, services and accommodation.

But, he said, the changes will not go any further.

And an overhaul of human rights legislation which would see the repeal of the Human Rights Act in favour of a comprehensive Equalities Act, as planned by the former administration, will not go ahead.

“We are not going down the path of an Equalities Act, we are updating the Human Rights Act,” Mr Scott said on Friday. “Goods, services and accommodation are protected categories under the Human Rights Act. “I can tell you that same sex marriage is not on the agenda, it is not being discussed. That is not the intention of amending the Human Rights Act. The Human Rights Act updating is dealing with the provision of goods, services and accommodation which our basic Human Rights Act now covers.”

Earlier this month, campaigners welcomed news that the UK parliament had voted overwhelmingly in favour of legislation which would legalise same sex marriage.

Mr Scott said that the UK example came about as a result of that government replacing its Human Rights Act with an Equalities Act which was a “huge piece of legislation”.

“That is not something we are doing, we are not looking at amending the Marriage Act in Bermuda. This is an updating of the Human Rights Act.” He said: “The intention of this legislation is not to set the framework for same gender marriage. That is not something that, as a government, we are looking at doing.”

Asked whether he personally supported same sex marriage, Mr Scott said his “opinion is absolutely irrelevant to my capacity as a minister”.

“Government has a responsibility to create an environment where no discrimination in the provision of goods services and accommodation happens and that’s what we are doing.”

The British same sex marriage vote led to rifts within Prime Minister David Cameron’s ruling Conservative Party and growing talk

of a leadership challenge.

Rights campaigner Valentino Tear has called on the Government to follow Britain’s example.

Mr Tear, a Bermudian, said he knew from personal experience that those involved in gay relationships that break down can find themselves cut adrift financially and without any legal protection.

The previous Progressive Labour Party Government in Bermuda had refused to countenance the notion of same-sex marriage.

“My Government is not inclined at this time nor any time in the future to consider civil union or same sex marriage,” said then Families Minister Glenn Blakeney last September.

PLP Senator Diallo Rabain challenged Government to make its position clear on same sex marriage at Wednesday’s Senate meeting but did not respond to queries seeking clarity on the Opposition party’s current position.

The PLP does, however, support prohibiting sexual orientation discrimination.

“That is something that I will admit, should have been done, could have been done and we are now at the point where it looks like I hope the OBA will follow through with their pledge to end that,” Sen Rabain said. (Royal Gazette)

Foreign workers still flocking Cayman Islands despite changes in taxes THE Cayman Islands has seen a rise in foreign workers despite increasing levies they pay and announcing plans to lift the lid on the tax haven.

The British overseas territory saw its number of foreign workers increase from 19,927 at the end of 2011 to hit almost 21,000 by December 2012, according to the latest figures.

The higher numbers are mainly due to the relaxation of immigration laws which included new five and 10-year work permits for those working in the reinsurance industry.

The Cayman Islands’ government has also started offering work permits for foreigners investing in its property sector.

These measures have more than helped counteract any expected fall in foreign workers due to a hike in work permit fees.

Last July, the then Cayman Islands premier McKeeva Bush

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

announced controversial plans for a tax on expats’ salaries. But this was scrapped for fear of scaring off investors and workers, so work permit fees were increased as a consolation.

The rising foreign worker numbers also come at the same times as the Cayman Islands slowly lifts its cloak of secrecy which could result in billions of pounds leaving the territory.

The Cayman Islands have long been seen as a tax haven for the wealthy and secretive thanks to its light money laundering and disclosure rules. Monies held there also enjoy freedom from income tax, along with capital gains and corporation tax.

But pressure is mounting on the world’s fifth largest financial centre to be more transparent and open about investors’ cash to bring it in line with the likes of London, Switzerland and the Channel Islands, which have all introduced greater

accountability.

In response the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority is introducing reforms that will make public the names of thousands of companies and their directors that have previously remained secret.

The territory is home to thousands of trust companies, countless financial vehicles along with most of the world’s hedge funds.

One British expat, who has recently left the Cayman Islands, said: “A lot of the pressure for more transparency is coming from investors who want greater control over their money along with knowing where it is being invested.

“The Cayman Islands has a very strong reputation as the ultimate tax haven so this could harm the financial industry quite badly. The dilemma for these funds is where to move their money to as all major financial centres are being forced to be more transparent.” (Business Insider)

US Supreme Court allows deportation of Caribbean immigrants, others THE US Supreme Court will not block the deportation of thousands of Caribbean and other immigrants who pleaded guilty to serious crimes two years ago.

The immigrants had not been warned by their lawyers that they would be targeted for deportation.

The law calls for mandatory

deportation for Caribbean and other immigrants, including lawful permanent residents, who have an “aggravated felony” on their record.

In a 7-2 decision, the justices refused to apply the ruling retroactively to cases of immigrants who had unintentionally pleaded guilty before 2010. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Jamaica’s PM Portia Miller said that her country stands firm on its decision.

Jamaica PM firm on moving away from the monarchy PRIME Minister Portia Simpson Miller has reiterated the Jamaica Government’s position on shifting Jamaica further away from its neocolonial state by putting plans in place to remove The Queen as Jamaica’s head of state.

In an exclusive interview with the Jamaica Observer earlier this week, Simpson Miller said that utterances

by Shaun Bailey, special advisor to Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron, would not throw the island off course in its quest to move away from the monarchy.

“What we said before, we are sticking to it,” Simpson Miller said at the end of the service of thanksgiving for the life of athletics administrator Neville ‘Teddy’ McCook at St Augustine’s Chapel on Kingston College’s North Street campus.

Bailey, who is of Jamaican heritage as his parents were born on the island, is a black Conservative Party official who ran unsuccessfully for a parliamentary seat in Britain’s 2007 general election.

Bailey urged Jamaica to tread cautiously in its mission to abolish The Queen as Jamaica’s head of state, adding that such a move could have negative, far-reaching consequences for this North Caribbean island.

“I would say Jamaica should be careful about doing that (disbanding

The Queen),” Bailey, said at last week’s Observer Monday Exchange.

“It gives Jamaica access to a broader world market, a broader world community, and Jamaica is a small place that could be powerful, but not on its own. It needs to be in that. The reason that Britain keeps it going from its side is that Britain can see the benefit in being in that community, and I would argue that Jamaica would feel the benefits of it as well,” Bailey added.

But Simpson Miller remained firm that there ought to be a paradigm shift in Jamaica’s political ideals, and maintained that the time had elapsed for Jamaica to remain cloaked in The Queen’s colonial garments.

“We have got to a stage and a level of our country’s development and independence, having celebrated 50 years of Independence, it is with Jamaicans to take the decision, and the changing times call for changes,” the prime minister said, arguing that she remained The Queen’s biggest fan.

“The Queen is a wonderful, beautiful lady. I have every love and respect for her and I think I am her number one fan, but the decision to replace her lies with us here in Jamaica,” Simpson Miller said.

(Jamaica Observer)

March 2 - 8, 2013

Regional News

Jamaica man kills two children, hangs self THE community of Wait-a-bit in Trelawny woke up to shocking news on Tuesday morning that a man earlier slit the throats of two children then hanged himself at their home.

The police say the incident happened around 2.30 this morning.

The man is said to be the father of the two children aged between two and five years old.

Our sources say only yesterday

the man had a dispute with the children’s mother, who later packed up and left the home saying she was going back to her mother’s house in Coleyville, Manchester.

It is reported that the man went to Coleyville and tried to persuade the woman to return home.

However she refused.

He then went back to Trelawny and committed the double murder-suicide.

Mottley replaces Arthur as opposition leader in Barbados LESS than a week after he led the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) into its second consecutive defeat, Owen Arthur has been replaced as leader of the party.

Mia Mottley, a former attorney general, who in 2010 lost the leadership of the BLP, was named as the new leader by BLP executive member Gline Clarke flanked by 13 parliamentary members.

The BLP lost the 2013 general election by a 16-14 margin.

“As secretary of the parliamentary group, I just want to announce that Mia Mottley was elected as Leader of the Opposition,” Clarke said yesterday.

Arthur, 63, did not attend the meeting, but reporters were told his absence was to allow the opposition legislators a free hand to elect a new leader.

“The party is united. Mr Arthur felt he would give the members of the parliamentary grouping the freedom to choose the future of the Barbados Labour Party and we thank him and respect him for that.

Mia Mottley was appointed less than a week after the BLP suffered its second consecutive defeat at the polls.

“Mr Arthur has indicated he would be a full member of the House of Assembly and we look forward to that,” Clarke added.

In October 2010, after she lost the leadership to Arthur, Mottley said she would remain committed to the BLP but accused it of engaging in a kangaroo court to ensure her removal from the post she held since 2008.(CMC)

T&T PM proposes new laws to fight crime AS THE Trinidad and Tobago Government grapples with the rising murder toll, it is moving “quickly” to bring legislation to deny bail to anyone found with illegal firearms or drugs in any quantity.

Under the current law, there is a three-strikes rule (a person must have three such offences) before the no-bail provision kicks in.

Concerned about the horrifying murders and the apparent spike in the murder toll, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar earlier this week summoned heads of the Police Service and Army to a meeting at her Parliament office to discuss the crime situation and proposals aimed

21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

at addressing it.

After an “intense” meeting, Persad-Bissessar announced that the team had agreed to “increase the visibility” of the joint patrols and road blocks “as of today”.

The country can expect more road blocks, a significant increase in joint police-army patrols (on foot and vehicular) as well as an increase in air patrols.

“I hope that with the increased visibility we can bring a sense of comfort to our citizenry that there are more personnel out there looking after their interests in terms of protective services,” PersadBissessar stated.

UN seeks new approaches to advance decolonisation in the Caribbean (CMC) NEW YORK, United States, Thursday February 28, 2013 – With the world undergoing a “great transition” the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon says it is time for a new kind of inclusive dialogue about decolonisation, calling for fresh approaches to resolve the situations of the remaining 16 Non-Self-Governing Territories in the Caribbean and elsewhere.

“The risk of movement, while sometimes frightening, is far more preferable to the stagnation of the status quo,” Ban told the Special Committee on Decolonisation, as it began its annual programme at United Nations headquarters in New York.

The committee, known formally as the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, was set up two years after the adoption of the Declaration by the UN General Assembly.

The declaration affirms the right of all people to self-determination and proclaims that colonialism should be brought to a speedy and unconditional end.

It states that “the subjection of peoples to alien subjugation, domination and exploitation constitutes a denial of fundamental human rights, contravenes the UN Charter and impedes the promotion

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon

of world peace and cooperation”.

More than 80 former colonies, comprising about 750 million people, have gained independence since the creation of the UN, the statement said, noting the 16 remaining NonSelf-Governing Territories are home to nearly two million people.

The UN identifies the 16 NonSelf-Governing Territories as Gibraltar, New Caledonia, Western Sahara, American Samoa, Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Guam, Montserrat, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, Turks and Caicos Islands, United States Virgin Islands, Tokelau, and the Falkland Islands (Malvinas).

“The international community is more convinced than ever that

colonialism has no place in the modern world.

“The eradication of colonialism, in keeping with the principles of the Charter and the relevant United Nations resolutions, is our common endeavour,” Ban said.

The UN chief said this requires the “constructive involvement of all concerned”, the Special Committee, the administering Powers and the Non-Self-Governing Territories “working on a case-by-case-basis”.

“The Special Committee should be at the forefront in identifying possibilities for change and in promoting priorities in the decolonisation process for the benefit of all,” he said.

“As the intergovernmental body exclusively devoted to decolonisation, the Special Committee is expected to devise fresh and creative approaches to mobilise the political will to advance its agenda,” he added.

Ban said that the world is “in a great transition, with many old structures breaking down and new arrangements taking shape.”

“In the area of decolonization, 16 Non-Self-Governing Territories require our attention. As we look ahead, the narrative cannot again be portrayed as decolonization deferred.

We no longer have the luxury of indulging in rhetoric and rituals.

Concrete action and tangible results are essential,” Ban added.

UN lambasted for denying compensation to Haiti’s cholera victims THE United Nations has come under heavy political fire for its decision to deny compensation for thousands of victims of cholera in Haiti – a deadly disease spread by U.N. peacekeepers in the troubled Caribbean nation.

“The decision is really outrageous,” Michael Ratner of the Centre for Constitutional Rights, told IPS. “Can it be where we live in a world where people under the U.N.s authority can cause a major epidemic and the U.N. claims its sympathetic, but will not lift a finger to compensate people of its wrongs?” he asked.

Ratner said the U.N.’s claims were the very definition of crocodile tears.

“When it comes to Haitians, it seems that no one cares. I believe that the secretary general (Ban Kimoon) could have lifted any claimed immunity of the United Nations or its officials, but apparently he chose not to.”

Justice here is now delayed, “but ultimately I believe the Haitian people will prevail,” said Ratner,

Residents of Saint Marc, in the Artibonite region of Haiti, wear masks to protect themselves against cholera. (Credit: UN Photo/Sophia Paris)

who also teaches international human rights litigation at Columbia University.

The United Nations could also face legal action internationally – perhaps going as far as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague – despite its

legal immunity as a protective shield.

Asked if the dispute could go to the ICJ, Mark Weisbrot, co-director of the Washington-based Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), told IPS, “Well, that is another possibility.”

22 NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Dominican community celebrate 169 years of independence

BY DAISY HANDFIELD HUNDREDS of Dominicans paraded the streets of Providenciales on Sunday (February 25) in celebration

of the Dominican Republic’s 169th year as an independent nation.

Local nationals kept their culture alive by not only parading in cars and floats,

but also on motorcycles which are commonly used in the Dominican Republic.

After the parade Dominicans, as well as local Islanders, gathered at the

Kishco parking lot on Airport Road in Providenciales for a lineup of activities.

During the ceremony portion of the event, recognition plaques were given to Judith Smith, Galmo Williams, Judith Robinson and Arthur Dean for their continuous support to the Dominican Community.

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, and Minister of Education, Akierra Missick, also attended the ceremony.

Ewing quipped that he was a bit envious that the Dominican Republic was celebrating their independence but he was proud at the same time.

Ewing said: “I am happy that the Turks and Caicos

could be a part of this historical event and we will continue to show support to the Dominican community.”

Organiser and president of the Dominican Association, Adaljiza Valdez, stated that one of the main objectives of the event was to unify the local Dominican community and show that no matter how far they may be from home, they will always represent the country they came from.

Valdez noted that the proceeds raised from the event will be used to provide children with free access to counselling, after-school tutoring, mentoring and recreational programmes.

A Dominican rap artist,

‘Musicologo’ and DJ ‘Italiano’ were brought down from the Dominican Republic to perform for the independence celebrations.

The crowd started jumping when the Dominican entertainers hit the stage.

Artist, Musicologo, said: “This is my first time in the Turks and Caicos and I am very happy to be here helping my Dominican people celebrate our independence.”

There were also local performances by ‘Whaboy’ and ‘El Veterano’.

Many attendees were wearing graffiti shirts that read ‘I am Dominican’ – a festive and proud affair for the Dominican Diaspora in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

A section of Dominican Republic nationals joining in local celebrations of the country’s independence

wishes

Happy 2nd birthday Lintavia Cox Today is all about cakes, sweets, toys and fancy decorations.

Do you know why?

Because it is the Birthday of the cute little superstar that you are, You may be little in size, But you bring loads of happiness to everyone around you Wishing you a Happy 2nd Birthday!

Birthday Wishes from your parents: Linval & Kelly and the entire family circle WE LOVE YOU TAVI! Send your special occasion to: Weekly News, Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, PO Box 52, Providenciales or email to tcweeklynews@gmail.com. Free of Charge!

Please limit your messages to 150 words.

Richmond Hill Preparatory school wins 2013 Spelling Bee FOR the third time in 10 years Richmond Hill Preparatory school has been declared the National Primary Schools Spelling Bee champions.

It was a very stiff competition between the students, but Travon Walkin, the runner up for 2012, emerged to become the 2013 Spelling Bee champion.

Walkin walked off with a brand new laptop courtesy of Lime TCI. Walkin demonstrated that with hard work and perseverance, great things can be accomplished.

The Ministry and Department of Education expressed great appreciation to all the principals, teachers, coaches and parents for all the preparation they had done leading up to the Spelling Bee competition.

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23

24 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

Spotlight on Salt Cay

A Tribute to the ‘Brown House’

By Candy Herwin WHEN Spanish sea captain Juan de Bermudez first set foot on the shore of Bermuda so named after him, little did he know the repercussions of his discovery and how it would influence and set in motion the future economy and lifestyle of the Turks and Caicos Islands some 740 miles away.

The early pioneers of Bermuda were excited to cultivate the land as tobacco plantations to meet the growing demand by British merchants for highly prized tobacco that was sold as a medicinal cure for almost every ailment.

However, unable to compete with the North American that could cultivate tobacco more cheaply, the settlers and adventurers turned their attention to the Turks Islands where they saw a great opportunity to

harvest salt which formed naturally in the many shallow Salinas on the island of Grand Turk and the adjacent island of Salt Cay. And so it was that the pioneers along with their established boat building skills, excess slaves, will and determination settled in the Turks Islands, in their quest to capture the salt market and become rich by supplying the world with ‘white’ gold.

On Salt Cay Bermudan style salt merchant homes begun to spring up in the early 1800s and one such important homewas the two story ‘Brown House’ which was built in 1820 by a Bermudian adventurer by the name of Captain Jones.

Decades later and on the verge of collapse from many years of harsh storms, hurricanes and neglect, this monument to the salt raking erahas been expertly restored by Salt Cays

benefactors Ms. Helen Krieble and her brother Frederick Krieble who are known for their generous gift of the old Governors House to the National Trust.

Today, the Brown House is a an elegant Guesthouse directly overlooking the ocean tastefully decorated in a classic style with high ceilings, three large en- suite bedrooms and a superb commercial kitchen within the old “buttery.”

This fine example of a salt merchant home was built during the Georgian period and models the grand houses seen in the Carolinas except that on Salt Cay the builders

made use of ships timbers, trees and local stone found in the area or from nearby islands.

The salt was stored in vast basements for protection from the rains and the merchants lived on the second floor with many windows that would catch the breeze from the constant trade winds, providing respite from the midday sun.

From the wide East verandas the merchants would look out over the vast Salinas and watch the raker’s gather salt, shovel it on the mule and cart and move the heavy load along the ‘pickle’ packed roads to the salt houses and wharfs.

This cycle of life continued until the mid 1900s when heavy competition from other countries closed the salt raking industry down and forced the men to find work on the large cargo ships carrying iron ore and other commodities round the world.

Salt Cay today relies solely on tourism and is without a doubt a superb vacation spot for the intrepid traveler who enjoys a peaceful natural environment away from city life.

Come for the weekend, step back in time and experience the history.

Check www. saltcayaccommodations.com for more information.

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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26

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

Islandcom awarded license for LTE technology IN A recent decision by the Telecommunications Commission of Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), Islandcom Wireless was awarded one of the spots on spectrum license for LTE technology.

The decision by the commission was a huge deal for the telecommunications companies in the Turks and Caicos.

All three telecoms companies went head to head for the spectrum license, which was only awarded to two local carriers.

CEO of Islandcom, Niamh Blake, stated that Islandcom’s 4G LTE network will provide customers across the TCI with the best wireless experience possible, enabling them to stay in touch like never before.

According to her, the decision was monumental and signified that the commission also notes that the company is gaining strength in the

market.

Under the license agreement, Islandcom Wireless will deploy their LTE network within 18 months.

The Long Term Evolution (LTE) network will cover 98 per cent of the Turks and Caicos populace.

In a nutshell, LTE means highspeed. It changes not only data speeds but it enhances the quality of voice as well.

In addition, it is 10 times the speed of 3G networks and it provides consistent service.

Edwin Serpas, Network O and M manger of Islandcom, said: “The best part of LTE is the higher throughput which means up to 120 Mbps speed on your device.

“LTE uses Internet Protocol for all services, voice and data. In other words, it gives you the same connection as other voiceover IP connections.”

Jojo Kids World principal, Ms. Maria Brown, with the school supplies donated by the Turks and Caicos Star Foundation and Vision TCI

School receives financial support A LOT of organisations in the TCI are aware of the importance of education and are doing the best they can to financially assist primary and secondary schools.

Jojo Kids World was the recipient of a generous cheque of $500 from the Turks and Caicos Star Foundation and Vision on January 10.

Principal for the school, Maria Brown, said: “On behalf of the school we would like to say thank you and if we could get more help from the community we would be really appreciative.”

The Turks and Caicos Star

foundation came about as a unique, collaborative effort of Belongers, expatriates and visitors united in the desire to improve the lives of future generations in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Vision Inc is a new charity in the process of becoming a duly formed non-governmental organisation (NGO).

It will be providing financial assistance for a wide variety of educational, cultural, environmental, humanitarian, welfare and charitable entities or individuals who help to improve the quality of life for all TC Islanders.

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 27

Scholarship applications now being accepted THE MINISTRY of Education has announced that applications for scholarships for 2013/2014 are once again being accepted.

According to the Scholarship Policy, the Scholarship Committee will award scholarships to successful applicants in the following areas: sports education, youth work, technical vocational education which includes plumbing electricity and auto mechanics, students completing secondary education, national scholars’ awardees, students completing the associates program at the Community College and valedictorians.

There will also be scholarships awarded to the areas listed below Education Primary education Secondary education - math, science and physical Education, foreign languages Education management Health Medicine Dentistry Medical technology Environmental science Nursing (general and public health) Dietician Engineering Structural Electrical Civil Mechanical Water Environmental Business Paralegal Studies Statistics Hospitality/ Tourism All Areas Sciences Agricultural Marine Biology Horticulture Forensic Science Technical/Vocational Plumbing Electricity Auto Mechanics Information Technology Analyst Eligibility Scholarships and grants will be awarded to persons who meet the following criteria: Be a Turks and Caicos Islander and reside in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Have completed secondary education at any of the high schools, post-secondary education at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, British West Indies Collegiate, or any other sixth form college in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Have no fewer than three passes in external exams for local scholarships or five passes for international scholarships in (CXC-CSEC,

IGCSE, GCE, O’Level) a Grade C or III or above.

Produce evidence of acceptance in an accredited institution, approved by the Ministry of Education, to pursue a course identified in the priority areas.

If a graduate of the Turks and Caicos Community College, have a minimum grade point average of 3.00 or equivalent B grade.

If a Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Servant, produce evidence of approval from the Human Resource Directorate, through his or her head of department.

Submit a completed application form and all supporting documents required for assessment by the scholarship board.

Scholarships will not be awarded if the course that is wished to be

pursued is being offered by the Turks and Caicos Community College, British West Indies Collegiate or any other sixth form college in the Turks and Caicos.

Applications must be submitted on the standard application form available at the Ministry of Education in Grand Turk or the Education Department in Providenciales.

National Scholar awardees must also submit a completed application package.

Application packages should be forwarded to the Secretary of the Scholarship Board, Ministry of Education in Grand Turk or the Education Department in Providenciales.

All applications must be received on or before (April 30) 2013.

28

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Pope Benedict XVI: God would not let Church sink In front of rapt crowds, Pope Benedict XVI spoke of moments of struggle as well as joy Wednesday during his final public address from a stage set up in St. Peter’s Square.

In an unusually personal message, he said there had been “many days of sunshine” but also “times when the water was rough ... and the Lord seemed to sleep.”

But even as the church passes through stormy seas, God will “not let her sink,” he added, in what was his final general audience before he steps down Thursday evening.

Those words will be seen by many as a comment on the series of child sex abuse scandals and corruption claims that have rocked the Roman Catholic Church in the course of his pontificate.

Benedict recounted how when he was asked to be pope eight years ago, he had prayed for God’s guidance and had felt his presence “every day” since.

“It was a part of the journey of the church that has had moments of joy and light, but also moments that were not easy,” he said.

Dressed all in white and looking serene, the pope used his last general

Pope Benedict XVI spoke of moments of struggle and job during his final public address before he stepped down.

audience to call for a renewal of faith and speak of his own spiritual journey through eight years as leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics.

Benedict thanked the cardinals, the clergy in Rome, Vatican officials and priests worldwide for their work,

as well as their congregations, saying “the heart of a pope extends to the whole world.”

Knowing his strength was fading, he had taken the step of resignation well aware of its gravity and novelty, but also “with a deep peace of mind,” he said.

“Loving the church also means having the courage to make tough choices,” he said, as he called on the faithful to pray for him and the new pope.

Benedict gave an insight into the life of the pontiff, describing it as without any kind of privacy, with his time devoted entirely to the church -- perhaps particularly difficult for a man known for his love of scholarship.

His life in retirement will be “simply a return to the private place.

My decision is to forgo the exercise of active ministry, not revoke it. In order to return to private life, not to a life of travel, meetings, receptions, conferences and so on,” he said.

As he finished, cheers erupted from the tens of thousands gathered in the square -- acknowledged

by Benedict with an open-armed embrace. (CNN)

Abandoned Texas infant found in plastic Walmart shopping bag SHE has a smile that will melt your heart.

Found in a plastic Walmart shopping bag after being abandoned just an hour after her birth, the little girl named Chloe by the staff at Texas Children’s Hospital was deemed healthy enough on Monday discharged, and even smiled for pictures.

Child Protective Services have taken custody of the girl, who was found last Tuesday, Feb. 19 at approximately 7 p.m. outside an apartment complex by a woman whose dog had smelled the infant.

“Our role is that this baby can be placed with relatives,” Estella Olguin with CPS told KHOU News.

A foster family is being sought to permanently care for Chloe. The girl, who flashed an adorable smile for photographers, is already sporting her first bottom tooth.

Fortunately, Chloe was not physically harmed by whoever abandoned her.

“She was very healthy… didn’t have a fever,” Estella Olguin with the Child Protective Services told KHOU. “Fortunately, she did not suffer from being exposed to the elements that evening.”

Her umbilical cord still attached when she was found, doctors believe

Abandoned an hour after she was born, Chloe, as she has been named by the staff at Texas Children’s Hospital, was given a clean bill of health on Monday and discharged.

that Chloe was born prematurely, at 35 weeks old.

For all she has been through, however, Chloe is acting much as any other infant her age would.

“She is a normal, healthy baby,” Kliche Adebanjo, Chloe’s

caseworker, told the Houston Chronicle as she held the tiny newborn in her arms. “The only time she fusses is when she’s hungry or needs a diaper change. She’s usually quiet and content.” (NYdailynews. com)

March 2 - 8, 2013

Farmers say sell more British products FARMING leaders are urging supermarkets to stop scouring the world for the cheapest food.

At the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) conference president Peter Kendall said supermarkets should source traceable products from British farmers.

Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said farmers should not be tarnished by criminals’ fraudulent activities over the horsemeat scandal.

Earlier, the head of Tesco pledged to bring meat production “closer to home.”

Philip Clarke, who later addressed the conference in Birmingham, told the BBC he would work more closely with British farmers in response to the horsemeat scandal.

He told the conference: “Where it is reasonable to do so, we will source from British producers. As a first step I announce that from July all of our fresh chicken must come from UK farmers. No exceptions.

Environment Secretary Mr Paterson told the conference the substitution of beef for horsemeat in

a number of products “had shaken consumer confidence”.

“I am determined that this criminal activity should be stopped and that anyone who has defrauded the customer must feel the full force of the law,” he said.

He said out of 3,654 tests carried out on beef products in the UK, only 35 have tested positive for horsemeat, a rate of less than 1%.

Their comments came after Mr Clarke said Tesco had introduced a new testing process.

Speaking prior to his speech to the NFU, he told the BBC he could not guarantee “right now today” that all of Tesco’s products contained exactly what was on the label, but said “that is our objective.”

“I’m sure that we will be able to say that in the future, once the testing regime is completely in place.”

He said out of 300 tests they had completed three had shown products which were “most susceptible” to horsemeat contamination. “Most of them are fine” he said, but “three is too many.”

Son admits cutting mother into pieces in South Bronx A SCHIZOPHRENIC South Bronx man confessed Tuesday to dismembering his mom and scattering her body parts in garbage bags across the South Bronx, police sources said.

Deranged suspect Bashid McLean, 23, implicated himself in the gruesome death after investigators recovered a saw inside the apartment where he lived with victim Tanya Byrd and his 7-yearold brother, Nasyr.

Cops also found a shopping cart used to lug 52-year-old Byrd’s severed body parts from their home to four locations within walking distance of the murder scene, police sources said.

Byrd was terrified by McLean, who was on probation after coming at two cops with a knife in 2010, and suspected that he was battering little Nasyr. The younger brother has Down syndrome, according to one neighbor.

“I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Bashid killed her,” said a 43-year-old woman who lives in the building on Westchester Ave. in Melrose. “She was afraid of that boy. . .He was a hellion.”

When bruises began appearing on the special-needs child, Byrd suspected her older son, the neighbor said.

“Bashid had a problem controlling his rage,” said the neighbor. “He had creepy eyes. Didn’t like to look you in the eye — but when he did, they went right through you.”

Bashid McLean allegedly dismembered his mother’s body and dumped it in the trash in various locatios around the Bronx.

Although McLean called police to report his mom was missing, he quickly emerged as a suspect in the gruesome killing, police sources said.

Cops were questioning him at the 40th Precinct stationhouse late Tuesday.

McLean’s sister, Porsche Lovett, who visited him at the stationhouse, said he showed no remorse. “He looked me in the eyes and told me he did nothing wrong when he killed her,” she said. “I don’t know who he is.”Byrd’s body parts were stuffed in garbage bags and scattered throughout her neighborhood, with a dog walker spying her right leg protruding from a pile of garbage around 5 a.m., police said.

March 2 - 8, 2013

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

29

Italy election: Beppe Grillo snubs deal with Bersani

Horsemeat has been found in burgers and other meat products across Europe.

Russia finds horsemeat in sausages from Austria RUSSIAN officials say horsemeat has been found in sausages imported from Austria.

The Russian agriculture watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor said the shipment of beef sausages contained horse DNA. A spokesman said the company that supplied the meat had been struck off a list of approved suppliers.

Horsemeat was first found in meals and burgers in the UK and Ireland last month, and traces have since been found in meat products across Europe.

Rosselkhoznadzor spokesman Alexei Alexeyenko told AFP news agency that the sausages had been imported from the Austrian city of

Linz. He did not name the supplier.

“It came two days ago from Austria. The shipment is over 20 tonnes,” he said.

Horsemeat is considered a traditional delicacy in Russia and is available in many restaurants and stores.

Mr Alexeyenko said the problem with the contaminated meat was that it was not clear what it was made of and that old or ill animals could have been used.

Russia’s Ria Novosti news agency said the sausages also contained traces of poultry and soybeans, although the documentation said they were 100% beef.

Maldives girl to get 100 lashes for pre-marital sex A 15-year-old rape victim has been sentenced to 100 lashes for engaging in premarital sex, court officials said.

The charges against the girl were brought against her last year after police investigated accusations that her stepfather had raped her and killed their baby. He is still to face trial.

Prosecutors said her conviction did not relate to the rape case.

Amnesty International condemned the punishment as “cruel, degrading and inhumane”.

The government said it did not agree with the punishment and that it would look into changing the law.

BABY DEATH Zaima Nasheed, a spokesperson for the juvenile court, said the girl was also ordered to remain under house arrest at a children’s home for eight months.

She defended the punishment, saying the girl had willingly committed an act outside of the law.

Officials said she would receive the punishment when she turns 18, unless she requested it earlier.

The case was sent for prosecution after police were

called to investigate a dead baby buried on the island of Feydhoo in Shaviyani Atoll, in the north of the country.

Her stepfather was accused of raping her and impregnating her before killing the baby. The girl’s mother also faces charges for failing to report the abuse to the authorities.

The legal system of the Maldives, an Islamic archipelago with a population of some 400,000, has elements of Islamic law (Sharia) as well as English common law.

Ahmed Faiz, a researcher with Amnesty International, said flogging was “cruel, degrading and inhumane” and urged the authorities to abolish it.

“We are very surprised that the government is not doing anything to stop this punishment - to remove it altogether from the statute books.”

“This is not the only case. It is happening frequently - only last month there was another girl who was sexually abused and sentenced to lashes.”

He said he did not know when the punishment was last carried out as people were not willing to discuss it openly. (BBC)

ITALIAN comedian-turnedpolitician Beppe Grillo, whose Five-Star Movement (M5S) defied expectations to come third in last weekend’s elections, has ruled out a coalition with the centre-left.

Pier Luigi Bersani’s Democratic Party (PD) won a majority in the Chamber of Deputies but fell short in the Senate.

Mr Grillo told the BBC he expected Mr Bersani to agree a deal with Silvio Berlusconi’s People of Freedom (PdL).

The inconclusive polls have pushed up borrowing costs for the government.

On Wednesday, the Italian treasury sold 4bn euros (£3.45bn) of new 10-year government bonds on the financial markets at a yield of 4.83%, up from 4.17% at its last sale in January, and 2.5bn euros of new five-year bonds at a yield of 3.59%, up from 2.94%.

BBC economics correspondent Andrew Walker says the latest rates are seen as bearable, but that the rises signal that investors want to see a strong Italian government, committed to economic reforms.

It is certainly possible that borrowing costs will rise further if the political uncertainty drags on for a long period, he adds.

‘DEAD MAN TALKING’ In an interview with the BBC, Mr Grillo said he would not support any new government and he expected fresh elections to be held within a year.

“Today in Italy, what will happen

Mr Grillo told the BBC he would not support any new government.

is what happened before. The right and the left will get together and will govern a country of rubble that they are responsible for,” he said.

“It will last a year. One. Maximum.

Then there will be elections again.

And once again, in the elections, the Five-Star movement will change the world,” he added.

Mr Grillo said the M5S would decide whether to support specific legislation on a case-by-case basis.

Any attempts to persuade the movement to take part in a government were fake, he asserted.

The 64 year old also rejected the suggestion that he was inciting popular anger, saying he should be thanked for giving angry people hope.

“There was no hope. It was anger

without hope. It is anger without hope that creates violence,” he explained.

“But anger with hope is a different kind of anger, an optimistic anger, it is not negative. We are containing this rage, so they should thank me. It is a democratic rage that is needed to go forward.”

On his blog, Mr Grillo also published a mocked-up film poster depicting Mr Bersani as a “Dead Man Talking”, based on the 1950 Italian comedy, 47 Morto Che Parla.

“Bersani is a political stalker,” Mr Grillo wrote. “It’s been days that he has been bothering the M5S with indecent proposals rather than resigning [the leadership of the PD], as anyone else would have done in his place.”

Pennsylvania woman sacrifices her life to save husband She gave her life so that her husband might live.

Out for their regular Sunday morning stroll in Wissinoming, Pa., Teresa and Albert Marquard were suddenly staring down death.

A suspected drunk driver had lost control of his minivan and had suddenly swerved over the curb, and came speeding right at that couple.

Teresa, 58, had just enough time to push her husband of 42 years out of the way of the oncoming vehicle, but was struck and killed.

“She pushed my dad out of the way,” Denise Hirschman, one of the Marquards’ daughters told Action News. “She saved my dad.

That was what she cared about.

She cared about us more than anything.”

Albert Marquard was unharmed in the incident, while the driver of the minivan, identified as 33-year-

Teresa Marquard and her husband were together for 42 years.

old Eric Luciano, remains in critical condition at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Police

say Luciano was drunk at the time of the accident.

Jimmy Berry, one of the Marquards’ neighbours, said he was not surprised to learn of Teresa’s selfless actions.

“She gave up herself for him,” Berry told Action News. “It’s amazing. It goes to show you what kind of woman she was.”

After being diagnosed with heart disease 15 years ago, Teresa had taken a job at family court to help support her family, KYW News reported.

The couple began dating when they were just 14 years old.

“She said he was the only one for her,” Monica Marquard, another of the couples’ daughters told KYW. “My mom, she’s a hero,” Monica added. “And I’m very glad she saved my dad for us, because we’d be lost without both of them.”

(NYdailynews.com)

30

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brama Kumaris

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

March 2 - 8, 2013

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101 www.bkwsu.com Email: bkwsu@tciway.tc

FOR SALE

Is looking for a

Labourer to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 242-2548

7797

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

A & M CLEANING Is looking for a

1 BEDROOM 1 BATH RICHMOND HILLS FULLY FURNISHED WASHER & DRYER $750.00 PER MONTH

3 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM

Greens keeper To work 5 days

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 343-3123 ACRES OF DIAMOND Is looking for a

FULLY FURNISHED WASHER DRYER 1,200.00 PER MONTH SECURITY SYSTEM FOR SALE OR FOR RENT

CUSTOM DESIGN KITCHEN $800.00 PER MONTH

2 BEDROOM 1 BATH NEWLY RENOVATED $900.00 PER MONTH

CONTACT: 231-3788

ASSISTANT MANAGER SOLAR • Knowledge of the renewable energy sector as it relates to commercial and utility scale projects • Knowledge of solar energy systems on both a commercial and utility scale with regard to engineering, procurement and construction • A minimum of 10 years sales and marketing including experience in selling energy systems to commercial and government verticals

• Proficient in the management of Agency and Distribution Agreements • Strong communication skills in English, both verbal and written • Strong relationship selling and presentation skills • Knowledge of Microsoft Office with excellent proficiency in Word, Excel and PowerPoint • Remuneration by commission only • Willing to work flexible hours

APPLICANTS ARE REQUESTED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME VIA EMAIL TO: caribbeansunpowertci@gmail.com Only Turks and Caicos Islander need apply. Only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Amazing Value!

Lot for Sale

Labourer

To work 6 days per week salary starts at $5.50 per hour.

Contact: 941-3112

PRICE SLASHED

7856

1 BEDROOM 1 BATHROOM HOUSE

Caribbean Sun Power

Applicants must have the following qualifications:

7838

FOR RENT

CLASSIFIEDS 31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o.

Call 231-3788

FOR QUICK SALE PRICE SLASHED $180,000 CASH! House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

$175,000

7843

March 2 - 8, 2013

32 CLASSIFIEDS COX LABOUR SERVICE

DELUXE CAFÉ

Is looking for

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

COLASCO

da conch shack

Is looking for a

COLASSCO Is looking for a

Is looking for a

2 Kitchen Helpers • Minimum 5 years experience • Working in a kitchen as a Line cook in a VERY high volume Restaurant.

• Must have knowledge of taking inventory daily.

• Pay rate is $5/hr

Cook Labourers To work 5 days Salary starting at Contact: 231-6710 or 231-4234

7858

499 Bay Rd. Blue Hills, Providenciales TCI Phone: (649)-946-8877

per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 241-4072

7866

7842

Labourer To work 5 days a week Monday – Friday. Salary $5.00 per hour.

G & G CONSTRUCTION

To work 5 days per week salary $8.50 per hour must have at least 5 years experience.

Contact: 231-1489

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 231-1489

7860

G&J Retail a Sales Clerk/Cashier

Is looking for a

For Retail Outlet. 6 days per week. $5.00 per hour.

Contact 231 6920

Labourer

7808

Contact: 649-242-1016

Mechanic Labourer 7841

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 241-2962

7853

$5.00 per hour.

Please submit Resumes at the restaurant at

7854

JOB VACANCY Systems & Sales Coordinator / Branch Officer Function: • • • • •

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

•

BNC Consulting Group is seeking qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders to fill openings with its restaurant client. Prospective candidates must possess relevant skills and experience. Exceptional interpersonal skills, a clean police record and a strong command of the English language is required. Interviews will be conducted for the following openings

• • •

Troubleshooting IT systems when there is an issue reported by computer users Carryout training for new and existing computer systems Perform routine network startup and shutdown procedures, and maintain control records Diagnose hardware and software problems, and recommend replacement Ensure the necessary resources and tools are available for quality customer service delivery Handle complex and escalated customer service issues and track customer complaint resolution Oversee the achievement and maintenance of agreed customer service levels and standards at the assigned unit Identify strategies to improve quality of service, productivity and profitability Maintains contact with all clients in the market area to ensure high levels of client satisfaction

The successful candidate must:

BAR SUPERVISOR

• • • •

– responsible for supervision of bar staff; inventory of supplies, food and liquor; stock requisitions; training, scheduling and evaluating staff; coaching and motivating employees; welcoming and acknowledging guests; resolving guest queries and complaints. Must be 18 years of age or older with five years’ experience. Knowledge of POS and prior supervisory responsibilities required. Extensive knowledge of mixology, wine, spirits and champagne. Must be energetic and personable, honest and trustworthy. Ability to work flexible schedule including early mornings, late shifts, weekends and holidays required.

• • • • • • •

BARTENDER

– responsible for set-up, mixing of drinks, service and clean up of bar area. Must be 18 years of age or older and have two full years of bartending experience. Extensive knowledge of mixology, wine, spirits and champagne. High energy professional who is passionate about guest satisfaction. Ability to work flexible schedule including late shifts, weekends and holidays required.

Be fluent in at least two of these languages: English, Spanish, Creole or Tagalog.

Have a strong understanding of customer and market dynamics and requirements Have at least five (5) years working experience Be flexible to work rotated shifts between 7:00 am – 7:00pm daily including weekends and public holidays at various locations Be willing and available to work at other locations including all islands in TCI Possess a Bachelors Degree from a recognized institution Have AML/CFT training certification Be conversant with computer application – ability to handle up to five (5) different applications Have very strong hardware and software problem solving abilities and Possess a valid driver’s License Have proven excellent inter-personal skills in interacting with customers, staff and management. A keen awareness of the environment and the needs and safety of clients and staff is required to perform well on the job.

Wage: $1,500 - $1,800 / per month – commensurate with qualification and experience

Please submit application letter and resume to The General Manager, tcihrstaff@gmail.com. The application deadline is February 28, 2013. Suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview

Submit resume to Bridgette Thomas at bthomas@bnccgroup.com for immediate consideration or call 332-2565. References required.

Salaries for the above positions are commensurate with level, experience and education.

ONLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED 7849

The position is immediately available

7832

March 2 - 8, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEW RESORT OPPORTUNITIES Guest Services Manager

• Follow all Health & Safety policies • Other duties as assigned

Summary:

Qualifications:

• Reporting to the General Manager - responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: • Responsible for the Management of Front Office, Reservations, Housekeeping, Laundry, PBX and Owners Relations ensuring adherence to department policies, procedures and service standards • Hire train and develop team members, ensuring employees are knowledgeable of all departmental objectives and policies. Conduct performance reviews as required • Ensure proper staffing and scheduling throughout the division in accordance to productivity guidelines • Establish & Maintain close working relationships with all departments of the resort, retail tenants and third party vendors to ensure maximum cooperation, productivity, morale and guest service • Conduct inspection tours in areas of responsibility to ensure desired standards of quality, cleanliness, service and controls are maintained • Manage Guest Services revenue and expenses: maximize departmental profit and control costs • Developing and nurturing relationships with clients, return guests and group contacts • Attend to guest comments verbally and written in order to ensure proper attention to all guest requests, queries and concerns • Consistently offer genuine, professional, hospitable service • Communicate through pre-shift briefings, emails and departmental meetings all necessary information to ensure smooth operations • Compliance with all Health and Safety policies • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal and leadership skills • Highly organized, results-oriented with the ability to be flexible and work well under pressure • Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management • Fluency in English (Spanish as additional language desirable) • Minimum of 5 years previous managerial experience in luxury hospitality • Must have a sense of style and ability to focus on detail • Ability to work independently, multi task and prioritize responsibilities • Strong guest service orientation and training skills background required • Knowledge of IQ Ware Property Management System • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Guest Service Agent Summary:

• Reporting to the Guest Services Manager / Assistant responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: • Consistently offer professional, friendly and hospitable service • Greet, check in and settle guest accounts while ensuring all service standards are followed • Assist all guest requests in an informative and timely manner • Follow department policies, procedures and service standards

• Proficient in the English language (verbal & written), second language is an asset • Ability to work independently, multi task and prioritize responsibilities • Guest oriented - remains calm and courteous at all times • Previous Property Management System experience an asset • Computer literate in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Power Point) • Must be able to type 25 words per minute • Ability to work with others • Hospitality Diploma is an asset • Must be flexible in terms of working hours including nights • Previous cash handling experience • Responsible & reliable Physical Aspects: (include but are not limited to): • Frequent standing and walking throughout shift • Occasional lifting, pushing, pulling

Room Attendant Summary:

• Reporting to the Housekeeping / Guest Services Manager responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: • Consistently offer genuine professional hospitable service • Responsible for the daily cleaning of guest rooms and public areas to resort standards • Cleaning duties include but are not limited to - dusting, bed making, soiled linen / terry removal, vacuuming, bathroom cleaning, inside window cleaning • Return of lost property following correct procedures • Follow departmental policies and procedures and service standards • Report necessary maintenance issues • Responsible for maintaining own pantry with operational supplies • Report observations, requests & inquiries, and Guest concerns to Supervisor • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications: • • • • •

Previous housekeeping experience an asset Responsible & reliable Ability to work well within a team with minimum supervision Guest Focused - remaining calm and courteous at all times Guest-oriented, have a energetic personality, display initiative & attention to detail • Proficient in English language (verbal and written) • Can multi task and prioritize responsibilities Physical Aspects of Position (include but are not limited to): • Standing and walking throughout shift • Lifting and carrying up to 20 lbs.

• Kneeling, pushing, pulling • Ascending or descending ladders and stairs

Restaurant Supervisor Summary:

• Reporting to the Restaurant Manager - responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: • Consistently offer professional, friendly, hospitable service • Oversee restaurant operations ensuring compliance with

• • • • • • • • •

departmental standards and meeting / exceeding guest expectations Knowledgeable of all food and beverage products Ensure proper staffing and scheduling in accordance to productivity guidelines Communicate through pre-shift briefings, and departmental meetings all necessary information to support the operation Train Team members in all job aspects – service, product knowledge and technical skills Capitalize on revenues by upselling and controlling expenses Handle guest concerns in a timely and professional manner Follow resort policies, procedures and service standards Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety policies Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Previous Food and Beverage Supervisory experience • Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management • Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal and leadership skills • Fluency in English (1 additional language desirable) • Ability to work independently, multi task and prioritize responsibilities • Strong guest service orientation and training skills background • POS experience – (IQ Ware desirable) • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) • Basic First Aid Physical Aspects: (include but are not limited to): • Constant standing and walking throughout shift • Lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs.

• Pushing, pulling, lifting

Bartender Summary:

• Reporting to the Restaurant Supervisor / Manager, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: • Consistently offer professional, friendly, hospitable service • Knowledgeable of all food and beverage products • Attend to guest service requests in a timely and professional manner • Capitalize on revenues by upselling and controlling expenses • Follow resort policies, procedures and service standards • Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety policies • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications • • • • • •

Previous Bartender experience Can work well under pressure in a fast paced operation Strong guest service orientation Can work independently and prioritize responsibilities POS experience – (IQ Ware desirable) Team player – works well with and supports team colleagues • Previous cash handling responsibilities • Responsible & reliable • Basic First Aid Physical Aspects (include but are not limited to): • Constant standing and walking throughout shift • Lifting and carrying up to 20 lbs.

• Pushing and pulling • Ascending or descending ladders and stairs

Send application to

Careers@bluehaventci.com Closing date: Saturday March 9th, 2013

34 CLASSIFIEDS

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CABANA BAR AT OCEAN CLUB Is looking for qualified, experienced applicants for the position of:

JOB ADVERTISEMENT Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a contemporary luxury full service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.

• • • • • • •

KITCHEN HELPER BARTENDER DISHWASHER

The successful applicant must possess the following skills and experiences: Must have experience in your respective field Food safe certificate or equivalent Must be willing to work holidays and weekends on a flexible schedule Ability to speak English is essential Must have clean police record Preference will be given to experience and qualified Belongers

Corporate Manager Oversees daily activities of Guest Services Department to provide guidance and leadership to all staff. Responsible to ensure consistent quality of customer service is provided to all guests in accordance with Gansevoort standards. Tasked with representing the Gansevoort brand and reputation in the public, through both oral and written communications. Essentially, he or she becomes the face of the organization, interacting with employees, clients, the media etc.

Essential duties include but not limited to: ;;To uphold and comply with Gansevoort Hotel Group Standards at all times. ;;Promoting the Gansevoort culture at every opportunity and stay true to its core values. ;;Provide exceptional customer service to all hotel guests, making their stay as comfortable and accommodating as possible while achieving team and Brand goals. ;;Manages all Guest Service operations to ensure profitability, cost controls and quality standards to ensure total guest satisfaction. ;;Ensure prompt and courteous service to guests, and to ensure that all guest experiences are distinctively supreme. ;;Coordinates staffing and logistics for all major group movements and special requirements. Responsible for all internal and external communications; employee liaison and press releases for the Corporate Office. ;;Timely reports to the Corporate Office in New York and liaise with the General Manager on property. ;;Ensure all Front Office staff is in compliance and kept up with the latest customer service techniques and Gansevoort Hotel Group Standards. ;;Monitors training and colleague’s progresses to ensure Gansevoort standards are implemented and followed. ;;Participates in all necessary training as directed by Gansevoort, New York. Reviews VIP reservations and ensures proper handling of VIPs and groups, administers amenity orders and resumes for incoming guests. ;;Computes and creates daily VIP arrival manifests to include arrival, departure information, room assignments, guest preferences and distributes to all department heads through the daily meeting. ;;Be responsive to guest’s requests by communicating their needs to appropriate departments in a prompt and courteous manner. ;;Protect confidential data and restrict communications of same only to authorized persons. ;;Perform other duties as directed by the General Manager or any other authorized Executive.

Skills/Qualifications: ;;To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. ;;Must have Gansevoort Hotel Group experience. ;;Must be a Certified Concierge ;;8 - 10 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment with experience in Front Office, Concierge and Management. ;;Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop, mentor and motivate a team. ;;Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem solving skills. Must be experienced in conflict resolution. ;;Proficiency in MS Office, Opera PMS and Micros POS. ;;Ability to prepare reports, effectively present information, and provide timely response to queries. ;;Ability to effectively deal with colleagues and customers, some of whom require high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy to defuse anger and collect accurate information. ;;Deadlines oriented with the ability to multi-task and establish priorities. ;;Strong oral and written communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English and Spanish. ;;Professional appearance and demeanor.

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 in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com 7865

CARIBBEAN CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

6879

Contact: 441-3466 for an appointment or interview Wage commensurate with experience

Y.A.3. B. Consulting Agency Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:

Been Mep Co. Ltd.

Carpenter – $8.00 per hour

G Spot

Carpenter to work 5 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

contact: 242-2686

7818

LAMONT’S TAKE-OUT Is looking for a

Waitress – $6.00 per hour

Penn Construction Gardner – $6.00 per hour

Nessy Restaurant Waitress – $6.00 per hour

Contact: 344-4540 WARD’S CONSULTING AGENCY Acting on behalf our clients Complete Construction, Anny Garcias Saloon, Turquoise Island Ventrures, Peureton Josusia Higgs is looking to fill the following positions:

Domestic Worker/ Cleaner

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 242-5919

7859

Cosmetologist Kitchen Helper Domestic Worker Carpenter Salary starting at $6.00 - $7.00 per hour

Contact: 345-7512

7861

THE VENETIAN

2 Barmaids 2 Labourers

Needed to work 6 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Email info@ misickstanbrok.tc or fax: 649-946-4734 7863

Is looking for a

Masseuse Must have at least 5 years experience must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 941-3512

7864

March 2 - 8, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

VACANCIES

COLOMBIAN EMERALDS INTERNATIONAL Colombian Emeralds International, “The World’s Foremost Emerald Jeweller” with over 50 stores worldwide has exciting career opportunities.

PLANT WORKERS

SALES ASSOCIATES

Caicos Pride Products seafood processing plant located in South Caicos is seeking employes,both male and female, to fill the following positions: 1 Conch Peeler 2 Fish Cleaner 3 Lobster Cleaner 4 Fishermen Prospective employees are required to reside in South Caicos and must be willing to work for extended hours, weekends and selected public holidays. Wage rates are commensurate with performance.

Retail Jewelry Sales Experience Excellent Customer Care Focus Teamwork and ability to meet company objectives Trustworthy, dependable & willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays • Ability to achieve goals as outlined by management

6886

Resumes may be submitted to the Labour Department/ DEMA or directly to the company via email: info@ caicoslobsterandconch.com or fax: (649) 945-3571.

• • • •

Forward your CV and covering letter by e-mail to: Mr. Stephen Heal, Colombian Emeralds International P.O. Box 226 GT, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, KY1-1104 or Fax: 1-345-945-8816 or email:Stephen.heal@dutyfreecaribbean.com (NO PHONE CALLS)

COLASSCO

DOLMEN IMPORT & EXPORT

Is looking for a

Is looking to fill the following positions:

6845

EUSTACE MUSGROVE Is looking for a

Is seeking suitably qualified Belongers to fill the positions outlined below. Ideal candidates must possess luxury resort experience, a professional, outgoing and friendly demeanor, and a strong command of the English language (oral and written). Salary is based on experience and qualifications.

The Landscaping Supervisor plans and coordinates the work activities of the landscaping department, and oversees gardening and greenhouse operations, insect control, and grounds repairs.

Essential Duties:

• Work with resort management to develop working sketches for the refurbishment, improvement, or expansion of landscaped areas.

• Plan, schedule, assign, and supervise all landscaping activities, including but not limited to, seeding, weeding, cultivating, and general care of resort grounds.

• Plan and supervise cultivation, pruning, spraying, and transplanting of a wide variety of shrubs and trees.

• Prepare requisitions and distribute materials and equipment for grounds maintenance work.

• Minimum Requirements: • Five years experience as a groundskeeper with supervision responsibility for a grounds crew.

• Extensive knowledge of planting and vegetation maintenance, pesticide applications, and landscape design.

• Considerable knowledge of budgets and cost estimating of landscaping projects.

• Ability to lead a crew of workers and conduct training and informational sessions.

• Ability to maintain favorable relationships with management, crew, vendors and suppliers.

• Excellent communication and organization skills.

Other immediate openings:

Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 231-1489

7860

Landscaping Supervisor

Domestic Worker

Labourer

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 946-8521

Appliance Technician

– experienced in the repair of refrigerators, washers and dryers, and restaurant kitchen equipment

Restaurant Hostess

– must be personable with exceptional communication skills. Excellent demeanor and polished presence for fine dining restaurant.

Closing Date: March 4th, 2013 Suitably qualified candidates should apply in writing or by phone to the following:

Bridgette Thomas BNC Consulting Group, Ltd website: www.bnccgroup.com email: bthomas@bnccgroup.com phone: 649-332-2565

contact: 243-2778

7868

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF Petition No. W-1/13 THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS IN THE MATTER OF EMERALD CAY LTD. AND IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE (CAP 16.08) BETWEEN: REGENCY INTERNATIONAL ESTATES LTD Petitioner - and -

– responsible for the oversight of employee housing, including general property upkeep, unit inspections, maintenance repairs and other assigned duties.

– must have luxury resort experience.

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

ADVERTISEMENT OF WINDING UP PETITION

Property Superintendent Maintenance Technician

6842

Labourer To work 5 days

EMERALD CAY LTD. Respondent A Petition to wind up the above-named company, Emerald Cay Ltd, whose registered number is 010952, of P.O. Box 560, Upper Floor (East Wing), The Beatrice Butterfield Building, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands presented on 21st January 2013 by Regency International Estates Ltd of Salt Mills Plaza, Suite #22, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands claiming to be a creditor of the company will be heard at the Supreme Court, Dr. Malcolm’s Building, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands on Date: 7th March 2013 Time: 9:30 a.m. (or as soon thereafter as the petition can be heard).

At the above hearing, the Court may: (1) make the winding-up order applied for; (2) dismiss the petition; (3) adjourn the hearing conditionally; (4) adjourn the hearing unconditionally; (5) make an interim order; (6) make any other order it thinks fit.

Any person intending to appear on the hearing of the Petition (whether to support or oppose it) must give notice of intention to do so to the Petitioner in accordance with Rule 4.16 by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 6th March 2013.

The Petitioner’s address for service is Salt Mills Plaza, Suite #22, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

Dated the 19th day of February 2013.

KELCI TALBOT Is looking for a

7845

MIRACLE RESTAURANT & BAR Is looking for a

WANTED

MARICE SIMMONS Is looking for a

Labourer Labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 332-3022

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

DOMESTIC

WORKER Needed to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 345-3966 or 342-6274 7837

Email info@misickstanbrok.tc or fax: 649-946-4734 7852

NADA ENTERTAINMENT

FEMALE SINGER

• Who can sing in English, Brazilian, Spanish and French • Must have a car and own equipment

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 341-8593

MALE SINGER

• Who plays the guitar and can sing in English, Brazilian and French and can play any style, needs to have a car for his transportation and his own equipment • Must be able to program songs

7846

PUBCO LTD./ DANNY BUOY’S

SEEKS

Cocktail Waitress

Is looking for a

Janitor

Applicant must have 2 years experience, must be reliable and friendly.

Applicant must be neat and tidy and present a positive image, and must be able to willing to work shifts, weekends and holidays.

Wages start at $6.00 per hour.

Application deadline is February 28st 2013.

To work 6 days per week salary starting at $5.00 per hour.

Interested persons should send applications via fax at (649) 941-4034. C/o Alliance Realty Ltd.

Contact: 946-5921

WANTED

IDEAL PETROLEUM Is looking for the following positions:

Labourer/ Handyman – salary $6.00 per hour

Kitchen Helper

– must be able to understand and speak Creole salary $6.00 per hour

Domestic Worker/ Babysitter

Labourer

Gas Pump Attendant Must be willing to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

– salary $6.00 per hour

Contact: 231-0098

7840

Must be willing to work 5 days per week

Contact: 245-6962

JOB VACANCY Position:

Catering Management Trainee Supervisor

The ideal candidate Minimum of three years’ experience at a reputed catering establishment, (hospital environment is a plus), Certification in Nutrition Food Hygiene and Health & Safety would be advantageous. Good financial and commercial acumen, strong management & communication skills and excellent knowledge of computer applications.

Email: mrblou@hotmail.com

BK PARTNERS LTD.

Must be willing to work 6 days per week

ICC&SCo is offering an exciting opportunity to one enthusiastic individual who has passion for food, strong interpersonal skills, and a high level of motivation to be based primarily at Grand Turk with flexibility to work at Providenciales as required.

The ideal candidate will assist the Catering Manager in organizing and executing food & beverage services at InterHealth Canada Hospitals, whilst meeting customer expectations, food and hygiene standards and financial targets.

7857

Waitress

A/C Technician salary – $10.00 per hour 2 Labourers salary – $6.50 per hour Domestic Workers salary – $6.50 per hour Electrician salary – $12.00 per hour 2 Barbers salary – $6.50 per hour

Contact: 342-8927

7834

Degree/ diploma in Catering; further qualification in Business administration/ Finance, Certification in Nutrition, Food Hygiene, and Health & Safety would be advantageous.

1. Maintains a professional manner and high level of customer service at all times.

2. Responsible for ensuring safe and timely preparation, cooking and dispatch of meals for patients and cafe include special diets, staff, visitors and any catering functions in accordance with facility management strategy and contract KPI’s.

3. Checks meals prior to service for quantity, quality and appearance.

4. Serves clients which include staff, patients and families, providing a high quality, efficient, friendly and client-focused service at all times.

5. Maintains compliance by all catering staff and reviews a comprehensive food safety system covering receipt, inspection, storage and issue and cooking of all foodstuffs.

6. Ensures all food and non-food items required by service are ordered and maintained in line with service needs and budgetary requirements.

7. Communicates with and provides expert advice to catering service team/hospital staff/patients/public in the provision of an effective and efficient catering service.

8. Maintains, in conjunction with the Chef and Catering Supervisor, all appropriate control records for the production, issue, distribution and service of food.

9. Assists Chef /Catering Supervisor in the development, introduction and review of local health and food safety guidelines and procedures. Implementation and monitoring of HACCP controls.

10. Complies with TCI hygiene, health and safety policies and procedures in accordance with legislation and local practice requirements.

11. Ensures safe working practices at all times and supports the implementation of best practice policies.

12. Maintains confidentiality of all information and material received or communicated at TCI Hospitals.

13. Attends in-services and participates in continuing professional development opportunities.

14. Performs other professional duties as may be assigned within his/her scope and ability.

15. Assists with all aspects of FM working of team contract compliance and achievement of contract KPI’s.

16. Devising and implementing staff development plans.

17. Driving Revenues, cash controls, managing margins percentage of gross profit in accordance with agreed budget. Achievement of budgetary targets.

18. Introducing marketing strategies according to changing customer needs, changing environment and customer.

Only B.O.T.C -Turks and Caicos Islands and persons with Belonger Status may apply.

Remuneration package is based on qualification and experience.

Please address your resume showing qualifications and experiences to:

Recruitment@interhealthcanada.tc

7859

36 CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WANTED

Wanted

Driver

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Acting on behalf of our clients is looking for a

EXPERIENCED

MESSEUR

For a 30ft jet drive diesel engine vessel, with at least 5 years’ experience. Applicants must be able to perform daily maintenance of the boat as well as providing personal assistance to its elderly owner. Applicants must be honest, hard working, reliable and willing to travel to Pine Cay daily.

7835

Please send applications to Savory & Co., F205 Regent Village West, Providenciales, 946-4602

FLEXIBLE TIME, WORK WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS. MUST LIVE-IN. HANDS ON EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIRED. SALARY $11 PER HOUR.

SUMMIT ENTERPRISES LTD atlanticconsultancy@hotmail. com

Domestic Worker

Applicant must be hard working, honest and reliable.

Experience preferable.

Please send applications to Savory & Co., F205 Regent Village West, Providenciales, 946-4602

TDMG CONCORDIA Is looking for a

Finish

7836

Carpenter To work 5 days per week.

Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact: 941-3446

Somewhere Café and Lounge is looking for a

BARTENDER for the upcoming 2012-2013 season

Applicants must be able to provide at least three years of experience as a bartender.

Qualified applicants must be able to demonstrate the ability to do the following:

• Have the knowledge to successfully produce cocktails from a large variety of liquors with a focus on accuracy.

• Be versed in MICROS POS system.

• Work independently behind the bar, maintaining one’s space.

• Work composed under pressure.

• Display a high level of comfort in customer service by engaging guests while working.

• Participate in daily cleaning responsibilities as they are outlined by supervisors.

• Be cost conscientious when expediting drinks to ensure the guest receives the same drink every time.

• Be highly motivated while working and be able to be on time for scheduled shifts.

• Applicants should apply in person with a resume and cover letter to be considered.

• Belongers given preference.

Cosmetologist To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 946-5759

7869

FULL-TIME

NANNY Position for twins Must speak, read and write English Must be available swing shifts hours, days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays Must be able to do household chores Must be comfortable around large dogs for grooming weekly.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 241-2866

6849

DOMESTIC

WORKER To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 341-2205

VACANCIES

6843

March 2 - 8, 2013

1 Mechanic and 2 Assistant Mechanic(s)/ Electrical Auto-motorists

Responsibilities: • Dismantle engines and repair or replace defective parts, such as magnetos, carburetors, and generators.

• Remove cylinder heads, grind valves, and scrape off carbon, and replace defective valves, pistons, cylinders and rings, using hand tools and power tools.

• Hammer out dents and bends in frames, weld tears and breaks; then reassemble frames and reinstall engines. Responsible for body maintenance and paint repair work • Repair or replace other parts, such as headlights, horns, handlebar controls, gasoline and oil tanks, starters, and mufflers.

• Repair and adjust motorcycle subassemblies such as forks, transmissions, brakes, and drive chains, according to specifications.

• Replace defective parts, using hand tools, arbor presses, flexible power presses, or power tools.

• Reassemble and test subassembly units. Disassemble subassembly units and examine condition, movement or alignment of parts visually or using gauges.

• Listen to engines, examine vehicle frames, and confer with customers in order to determine nature and extent of malfunction or damage.

• Connect test panels to engines and measure generator output, ignition timing, and other engine performance indicators.

• Responsible for supervision and monitoring of the instrument testing, installation, calibration and commissioning of process control instruments for all scooters and vehicles • Prepare reports and certifications after the completion of jobs.

• Ensure quality work and monitor work progress of staff • Commissioning of turbine monitoring instruments such as speed sensors vibration, sensors, and shaft expansion of scooters • Testing, calibration, and commissioning of switches, gauges, transmitters, analyzers and pneumatic control valves of scooters • Responsible for handling multiple site portfolios and for all operational activities, emergency response, safety, collection, regulatory compliance, re-development, customer interaction, and development.

• Performing small maintenance requests on all vehicles (cleaning, inflation tires, fixing all mechanical malfunction, etc) • Liaise and Assist with Scooter Operations agent with office duties when necessary • Advising Management of all daily activities • Responding to queries regarding vehicle functionality raised by customers, agent and mgmt. in the most friendly and adequate manner as possible • Support the Company’s promotional efforts.

• Ensuring that all returned vehicle are cleaned and ready for next day’s use.

• Any other duties assigned by Management Qualifications: • Candidate must be able to drive a scooter/buggy, as delivery and pick up requests are a normal part of this function.

• Candidate must be aware of the basic and all technical functionalities of a scooter/ buggy • Candidate must have a minimum of 7 years experience in scooter/buggy operations and mechanics • Candidate must be personable and customer service oriented

All Salaries are subject to negotiation All interested please forward resumes to: sandrews@caicoswheels.com 7844

7872

38 CLASSIFIEDS

NOBEL SECURITY Is looking for a

ATTORNEY

PIERRIK MARZIOU Is looking for a

Maintenance Supervisor

Security Officer To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact; 231-6121 6890

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

– CORPORATE/COMMERCIAL

To work 5 days per week salary $300 per week.

Contact: 231-0309

6877

Solicitor or Barrister required with a minimum of 10 years post-qualified experience and with the following additional qualifications: • Masters in law or equivalent • International taxation experience • Experience in large commercial transactions • STEP member or willingness to sit requisite exams • Proven ability in, and willingness for, training of junior colleagues • Willingness to travel to and possibly relocate to the firm’s other international offices

Belongers are particularly encouraged to apply.

Apply in writing, with CV and cover letter to Christian Papachristou via fax to (649) 946-4484 or cp@bishopslegal.com with a copy to the Labour Office, Providenciales.

Business Process Improvement Analyst Reports to: General Manager

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF JOB: The Business Analyst is responsible for a full range of activities which ensure the operational effectiveness and excellence of the business unit. The Business Analyst will design and document workflow and make appropriate recommendations that will positively impact operational effectiveness. The Business Analyst will track and analyze business unit trends and make appropriate recommendations that will positively impact the unit.

1 Kitchen Consultant and Trainer

– 1500.00 per month: must have minimum 10 years experience as an executive chef. Must have experience teaching and training in a culinary environment. Hours as needed.

2 Cooks

Must have minimum of 10 years experience in a high volume kitchen specializing in Mexican Food. Fluent in Spanish and English. Pay 7.50/ hour Taking Applications for Bartenders, Servers and Kitchen support staff; preference given to belongers.

Contact: misamigostci@gmail.com for an appointment.

6887

A Dynamic Mobile Service provider seeks to recruit for the following post:

Main Duties and Responsibilities: • Works with appropriate personnel to allocate personnel time to project tasks and to track progress of their work.

• Takes assigned project from original concept through final implementation.

• Defines, develops and implements quality assurance practices and procedures, end user test plans and other QA assessments.

• Responsible for ensuring that all documentation accurately reflects the current status of changes and outstanding issues so that business requirements reflect application features and functions.

• Manages specific application quality assurance and help desk activities including the tracking of bug reports and change requests and ensuring their timely resolution.

• Responsible for the overall success of testing, including results verification and release sign-off.

• Ensures continuing operational quality by documenting bug fixes and enhancements assigning tasks to developers, testing and releasing updates.

• Analyzes discrepancies in service or performance and makes recommendations for updates.

• Defines project scope and objectives.

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS & FUNCTIONAL SKILLS: • Minimum 5 years’ experience in telecommunication, including underwriting, marketing, business analysis and project management is preferred • Proven project management and leadership skills, including the ability to gather clear business requirements.

• Proven ability to develop, document and maintain operational policies and procedures, including the designing and documenting detailed process flows, and the development of operational performance and quality metric standards and reports.

• Proven experience working with Excel and developing and maintaining various analyses and reporting tools.

• Excellent Organizational and Communication Skills.

• BA degree business or related field preferred. Equivalent work experience considered

Interested applicants should forward their resume to hrtci@digicelgroup.com

REQUIRED FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 2013-2014

GRADUATE TEACHER to teach ICT at IGCSE and Advanced Level Suitable candidates must have a Bachelor's Degree and teaching qualifications, a minimum of five (5) years experience teaching the British National Curriculum and CIE Examination syllabi.

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

CV, letter of application and names of 2 referees to be sent in writing to:

The Principal, British West Indies Collegiate PO Box 338, Providenciales or Email: bwicprincipal@tciway.tc Suitable candidates will be called for interview.

6882

FULL-TIME

DELICIOUS DISHES Is looking for a

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JENIFER MASICLAT Is looking for a

NANNY

CAICOS CORAL HORSE BACK RIDING Is looking for a

Position for twins

Contact: 347-0720

Contact: 241-2866

6851

Labourer

6849

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Must speak, read and write English. Must be available swing shifts hours, days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays. Must be able to do household chores Must be comfortable around large dogs for grooming weekly. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Live-In Nanny

Horse Training

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Instructor

contact: 343-4599

contact: 344-4540

Salary commensurate with experience.

CLASSIFIEDS 39 KARAM MISSICK Is looking for a

Groundskeeper to work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 941-5082

6844

March 2 - 8, 2013

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION RBC ROYAL BANK OF CANADA (BAHAMAS) LIMITED of The Centre Mews, Leewad Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands:

VACANCIES

Parcel 60804/107

The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales comprising 0.58 acres of land on which is constructed two Commercial buildings comprising twelve rental units and a gross floor area of approx. 6,808 square feet. A small outbuilding currently being utilized as a restaurant kitchen is 196 sq. ft.

Registered proprietor: John Alexander Williams

Grand Turk Cruise Center LTD is currently accepting applications for the following positions:

Carpenter

The auction will be held at the offices of Misick & Stanbrook, 122 Blue Mountain Road, Providenciales at 10:00 o’clock in the morning on Tuesday the 12th day of March 2013 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels.

Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Misick & Stanbrook (649) 946-4732 extension 237 or fax number (649) 946- 4734.

CBMS LTD. PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS, BWI PHONE: 649-941-3400 Fax: 649-941-3401

VACANCIES RIG TRUCK DRIVER

Applicant must have 5 years experience driving a tractor trailer with experience in dump trailers.

Mechanical ability would be an asset

LABOURERS

Applicant must be prepared for heavy work, breaking cement bags, loading trucks and stevedoring of cement and gravel. Applicant will also be required to assist mechanics as needed

HEAVY DUTY MECHANICS W/ ELECTRONIC SPECIALIZATION

Applicant should have specialization in electronic wiring with extensive knowledge of caterpillar equipment. Must have 5 years minimum experience in diesel heavy equipment, able to fabricate and weld, possess own tools and transportation and be able to work without supervision

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Applicant must have substantial experience in all aspects of heavy equipment operation including crane operation. Seven (7) years minimum experience required. A mechanical aptitude would be beneficial

PROFESSIONAL WELDERS

Minimum experience 5 years needed. Applicant must be able to weld aluminum and iron, be versed in TIG and MIG welding, able to fabricate and manufacture components out of metal, able to work independently

All applicant must be prepared to work long hours including weekends and evenings as required. Please reply with reference and clean police and driving records wages will be based on experience

7851

• Applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in both rough and finish carpentry and be familiar with the safe and efficient operation of most commonly used power tools. Shape or cut materials to specific measurements using hand tools, machines or power • saw.

• Interpret sketches or basic plans to prepare project layouts and determine dimensions and materials required.

• Build and repair wooden bridges and buildings.

• Build or repair fixtures and fittings used in buildings.

• Erect scaffolding and ladders for assembling structures above ground.

• Repair or replace damaged or defective parts or sections of structures using hand tools. Finish surfaces of woodwork or wallboard in buildings using paint, hand tools and paneling.

• Inspect ceiling, floor tile, wall coverings, siding, glass or woodwork to detect broken or damaged structures.

• Knowledge of plumbing and/or masonry would be an asset.

Applicants must be willing to work nights, weekends and holidays. Must be able to lift min. of 50lbs, speak English and able to work well as part of a culturally diverse team.

General Maintenance • This position requires general maintenance skills such as painting and masonry, to facilitate maintenance of all buildings and public areas in optimum condition.

Knowledge of pool and fountain maintenance would be an asset.

• Assisting in line handling for docking cruise ships as needed.

• Assisting in any various tasks, necessary to keep GTCC operating to the highest standard.

• Applicants must be willing to work nights, weekends and holidays. Must be able to lift min. of 50lbs, speak English and able to work well as part of a culturally diverse team.

SALARY / WAGES BASED ON QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

Interested persons should contact: GTCC Human Resources Fax: (649) 946-1041 or E-Mail: admin@grandturkcc.com ONLY BELONGERS NEED APPLY

6888

40 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WANTED

DOMESTIC WORKER REQUIRED • Working hours: 8 hours per day • Wages: $6.50 per hour • Must have clean police • Must be hardworking and reliable • Must be prepared to work some

weekends • Duties include: house cleaning, cooking, laundry, ironing and other household duties

Contact: Neon Holding Ltd. Telephone: 649-941-7923 during working hours

March 2 - 8, 2013

Nanny/Housekeeper

6871

We are looking for a responsible, energetic and intelligent person to assist our working family in providing quality care to our children and assisting with laundry, cooking and other housekeeping duties. Honesty, integrity, reliability and caring qualities are imperative for this position. Applicants with a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record are preferred. This person must enjoy the outdoors and is a competent swimmer. Salary $10.00/hour. Full time preferred, but part-time may be accepted.

Submit resume, covering letter and references to: P.O. Box 1129, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or via to email to lactci@gmail.com.

6881

GOVERNMENT VACANCY Mapping Technician

Vacancy Notice

DEPARTMENT: Department of Economic Planning and Statistics MINISTRY: Finance and Economics LOCATION: Grand Turk

DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE

JOB SUMMARY:

DEPARTMENT: Agriculture MINISTRY: Environment and Home Affairs

To provide technical support with floor level responsibility for the collection, processing and analysis of statistical data to inform economic and planning decisions. The incumbent is expected to generate results that are deemed satisfactory when there is an efficient system to collect primary and secondary data from business establishments, household and governments, to process and present statistical data, and to general timely relevant reports.

JOB SUMMARY: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) for the post of Director of Agriculture. The incumbent in this Managerial position is responsible for the growth and development of Agriculture as a viable means of livelihood and sustainability throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. He /She is expected to oversee the management of both the Animal Health and Plant Health Units that comprise the Department of Agriculture; as well as develop and review a national strategy for Agriculture in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Duties include formulating and implementing national policies and programmes aimed at achieving rapid Agricultural growth through the optimum utilization of the country’s land, water, soil and plant resources; participating in activities of international organizations geared at fostering bilateral cooperation in Agriculture and allied sectors; coordinating the collection and maintenance of a wide range of statistical and economic data relating to Agriculture, agro forestry, animal health / control / welfare, and allied sciences to develop TCI’s Agriculture Sector; as well as developing and implementing programs which support and promote the TCI’s agriculture industry, whilst at the same time protecting consumers and the environment.

The post holder must also be able to assist and educate the public on utilizing Agriculture as a sustainable livelihood; develop the Government Farm in North Caicos; and assess problems relating to broader areas of rural development concerning agriculture, including postharvest technology by developing cooperative programs with other organizations.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Collect data through surveys of establishments and households Collect data from government department/officers and other institutions Encode data in excel, access, SPSS or other processing software Process and transform data from/to MS Office applications, and publishing software Assists in the preparation of reports Updating and maintaining database Perform other functions as may be assigned Preparing maps and databases Preparing statistical tables and graphs Collecting data from public and private sector institutions Assisting in the processing of survey data to provide statistical information Coding and encoding data Assisting in report preparation Statistical reports on student enrolment, completion dates.

Adheres to all Public Service codes, rules and regulations Other related tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

The position requires a Post Graduate Degree in Agriculture Science or Forestry. He/She must also possess an undergraduate degree in a related discipline. Candidates are expected to have over ten (10) years experience working in this field.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES: • • • • • • •

Ability to type accurately.

Good computer skills Good organizational skills Ability to follow instructions and act upon them in a timely manner.

Ability to work as a part of a team MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: A certificate in Corporate Secretary hip or an Associates Degree in Business Administration • A minimum of four years experience in a related field.

SALARY: $T15 $22,800 per annum

The incumbent must be knowledgeable in rural and urban agricultural development; as well as possess firm knowledge of animal and plant health and its production. In addition, he / she should have proficient knowledge of small scale, sustainable and organic permaculture techniques.

The successful candidate is also expected to have working knowledge of International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) as well as International Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs). The successful candidate is required to be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

SALARY: T34 - T38 $38,800 to $43,200

• Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

• Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@ gov.tc with the subject line being: Mapping Technician Application. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: Mapping Technician Application clearly marked on the envelopes.

• Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

• Only qualified Belongers will be considered for this position.

Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line being: Director of Agriculture Application. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: Director of Agriculture Application clearly marked on the envelopes.

Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5th March, 2013.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5th March, 2013.

6875

ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES’ APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED

6873

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 41

LICENSED PROFESSIONAL TATTOO ARTIST The qualified candidate must: ;; Have at least 5 years professional experience ;; Provide proof of up-to-date hepatitis vaccinations ;; Provide proof of having passed an examination on sterile techniques

SHIFT MANAGER

• Must be able to work day or night shifts (12pm-5am) • Mandatory requirements: • 10 years management experience • 5 years general manager experience • Associates Degree • Preferred requirement (requires some knowledge of all the listed items)

• Bachelors Degree • Experience managing a high volume restaurant and bar

Experience with: • Micros – systems • Manager procedures • Configuration • Back office • Dashboard • Employee configuration • Revenue Center • Reports - sales, menu,

employee • Data base • Network – set up and manage • Inventory Controls • Windows – Microsoft • Word • Excel • Power Point • Entourage • Facebook – Set up and use as a marketing tool

Salary based on performance Contact: 649-343-1984

6870

All application must contain copies of a portfolio of your work and verifiable references and be sent to: P.O. Box 267 for the attention of Dale A. Peters Only suitable candidates will be acknowledged

6883

PUBCO LTD.

and universal precautions against infectious diseases ;; Be willing to work 6 days per week ;; Remuneration will be commission based and preferences will be given to Belongers

GOVERNMENT VACANCY TRUANCY OFFICER

MININSRY: Education, Youth, Sports and Culture DEPARTMENT: Education Zone (1) LOCATION: Grand Turk JOB SUMMARY:

GOVERNMENT VACANCY PLANT HEALTH OFFICER DEPARTMENT: Agriculture Department MINISTRY: Environment and Home Affairs

JOB SUMMARY: The incumbent in this position is responsible for providing technical support to the Chief Plant Protection Officer (CPPO). The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the development of the Agriculture Plant Health Program; conduct inspections of agriculture materials at air and seaports, plant nurseries, crop farms, farmers’ markets and any premises where plants are cultivated; as well as collect, store, and ship product samples for analysis based on international protocols and standards. He / She must treat infested plants and associated plant materials using chemicals sprays, fumigation; assist the CPPO at the Plant Quarantine Station; review Phytosanitary Certificates and Plant Import Permits; as well as contribute towards the development and implementation of guidelines and operational standards for Plant Health. The incumbent must work closely with the Management Team to conduct workshops, seminars and other educational programmes for key stakeholders for the Agriculture Department. Other duties include providing assistance and extension services to Crop and Livestock Farm Managers, conducting various treatments and remedial measures, such as disinfection, sterilization, methyl bromide fumigation, hot and cold-water treatments, irradiation of regulated articles for plant pests and diseases; as well as providing progress reports to the Chief Plant Protection Officer.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

The qualification for this position is a Degree in Agriculture Science or any related field, PLUS training in Entomology and Plant Pathology at least five (5) years experience working in the field. The successful candidate must be knowledgeable of WTO SPS Agreements; as well as be able to easily identify plant pests and diseases. He / She is also expected to have working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite Applications as well as possess excellent communication skills.

Applicant must have a High School Diploma and a minimum of four (4) CXCs including English Language. Qualifications in counseling would be an asset. The position requires a minimum of three (3) years working experience in the area of counseling, law enforcement, social work or any area which focuses on discipline and nurturing of youth.

SALARY: T10 -15 $21,000 - $22,800 PER ANNUM

SALARY T28-T33 $31,680.00-$35,880.00 PER ANNUM

Current serving officers must apply through their Heads of Department. Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line being: TRUANCY OFFICER Application. Envelopes should have the subject: TRUANCY OFFICER Application clearly marked on the front.

Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@ gov.tc with the subject line being: Plant Health Officer Application. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: Plant Health Officer Application clearly marked on the envelopes.

Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

Belongers only need apply.

6876

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5th March, 2013.

• The incumbent in this position will ensure that all school students between the ages of 4 – 16 attend school during school hours. To prevent mandatory school aged students from visiting night clubs, bars or any other place which prohibits the presence of minors. It is anticipated that the execution of the job holder’s duties will include:• Works between the primary and high schools on Grand Turk.

• Liaises with Principals daily or at an agreed time, to obtain a report on those students who are absent from school.

• Ensures the non-interference by students officially dismissed or suspended from school.

• Works closely with the Guidance Counselors, Education Psychologist and Parents/ Guardians on matters relating to students’ attendance/absenteeism.

• Investigates the reasons for students’ absenteeism and keep the school’s leadership informed of findings.

• Apprehends students in school uniform who are out of school during school hours, without legitimate reason and refer them to the Principal or Vice-Principal for further action.

• Works in close coordination with the Social Welfare Officer, the PTA and the churches in sensitizing parents and students to the seriousness of truancy and to discourage it.

• Must be mobile in order to be able to thoroughly scrutinize bars, games galleries to find and apprehend truants.

• Liaises with the school's security officers to monitor the movement of visitors on the school compound and take appropriate actions where loitering and trespassing might occur.

• Discourages vandalizing by reporting and/or apprehending anyone found vandalizing the school’s property.

• Assist with the formulation and review of guidelines for improving school safety.

• Maintains a log of all activities undertaken during the course of the day.

• Submits to the Department of Education monthly written reports on activities undertaken during the period.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8th March, 2013 ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED 6874

42 CLASSIFIEDS

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SALES FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd as Chargee pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance hereby gives Notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the following scheduled properties outside the offices of Miller Simons O’Sullivan, Second Floor, The Beatrice Butterfield Building, Butterfield Square, Providenciales at 10:00 a.m. on 5 March 2013.

1. Title No. 60101/21 K2&3, North West Point, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd. Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens. This unit has 1,572 square feet and is known as unit 102 in Building B1. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/veranda and closet space.

2. Title No. 60101/21 K29 North West Point, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd. Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens. This unit has 1,572 square feet and is known as unit 102 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/veranda and closet space.

3. Title No. 60101/21 K36, North West Point, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd. Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens. This unit has 2,223 square feet and is known as unit 201 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/veranda and closet space.

4. Title No. 60101/21 K37, North West Point, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: North West Point Resort Ltd. Comprising approximately 570 feet of frontage onto the reef projected white sandy beach and excellent views of the North Shore. Upon this has been constructed two condominium buildings containing units. This property also contains on site facilities included gated entry, restaurant/cabana area, swimming pool, deck area and gardens. This unit has 1.556 square feet and is known as unit 203 in Building B2. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living/dining area, living area, balcony/veranda and closet space.

5. Title No. 60400/330, Chalk Sound, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Karen Rigby This property is located on the south side of Chalk Sound drive.

The property has a single storey residence with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, living/dining, utility closet and a front and rear porch. The property has no external improvements in terms of driveway or parking aware. The total floor area is 1,832 square feet.

6. Title No. 10304/142, 143, 144, Central, Grand Turk Registered Proprietor: Whale Watchers Ltd

Comprising 0.96 acre parcel containing a partially complete commercial development located on Front Street, Grand Turk with the potential to be used for office or residential units.

7. Title No. 60609/24, Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Claudine Pratt

Comprising 0.21 acre parcel containing an apartment building with two single storey apartments, both with two bedrooms. The property is accessed by an asphalt surfaced main road via the gated entrance of the two apartment properties. The approximate gross external floor area of the whole apartment building is approximately 2,976 square feet, including the area of the covered decks amounting to 576 square feet.

9. Title No. 60505/250, Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Samuel Jules

Comprising 0.26 acre parcel with bare land containing indigenous bush and small trees. The property is located between Blue Hills and the northern part of Kew Town and is accessed by turning on Bible Street, the second turning on Blue Hills Road, heading towards the T-junction and taking the northern hand turn to the end of the road and the property is the last lot on the left below the ridge land.

10. Title No. 60719/87 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Gregory Raymond Pinder and Lisa PhillipsPinder Comprising 0.74 acre parcel with bare land containing dense native shrubbery and the rear of the plot overlooks the canal. The property is located in the Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill area of Providenciales.

11. Title No. 60400/284, Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: BNA Ltd

Comprising 1 acre parcel with a partially completed block structure, dense mature native vegetation and small trees. The property is located on Chalk Sound Road, approximately half a mile beyond the Silly Creek Estate junction on the northern side of the road. The property has a view of the Chalk Sound National Park.

12. Title No. 60713/90/K9, Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Ivan Gregory Kennessey

Located in the Queen Angel Development comprising of studio, one, and two bedroom villas, which can be found in the Turtle Cove area. The property is Unit A201, a second floor one-bedroom corner unit in Building A. Unit A201 has a 1,275 unit entitlement and 1,275 square foot gross external area. The unit is unfurnished and comprises one bedroom, one bathroom, open kitchen/living/ dining area, utility closet and storage space. The unit also has use of the resort facilities including the communal swimming pool and deck.

13. Title No. 51201/22, Bottle Creek Central, North Caicos Registered Proprietor: Samuel Handfield

Comprising 1.75 acre parcel with a commercial building that is currently operated as a supermarket. The property also contains a bathroom, storage facilities, a loading area and office space. The gross floor area of the building is approximately 5,100 square feet.

The property is located along Kings Road in North Windsor, Bottle Creek Central.

14. Title No. 51203/37, Bottle Creek Central, North Caicos Registered Proprietor: Samuel Handfield

Comprising 0.55 acre parcel containing two structures that are currently in poor condition. The main house contains three bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen and a living room area. The gross floor area is approximately 1,225 square feet. The annex building is a split level building that was previously used as a general store and a one-bedroom apartment. The gross floor area is approximately 1,063 square feet.

Located on the south-western tip of Providenciales, in the area known as Norway & Five Cays. A two story house on 1.03 Acres of land. The house is not yet completed with only snagging items, minor finishing items and some site works left to be completed.

Once completed the gross floor area of the residence will be 2,435 square feet. The property benefits from approximately 120 linear feet of iron shore frontage onto the Chalk Sound with impressive 180 degree views being enjoyed to the west.

15. Title No. 51302/11, Bottle Creek South, North Caicos

8. Title No. 10406/88, East Suburbs, Grand Turk

16. Title No. 51108/106, Bottle Creek North, North Caicos

Registered Proprietor- Lorraine/Laureen Williams

Registered Proprietor: Samuel Handfield Comprising 10.2 acre of undeveloped land and is currently being used as a local farm with native produce. The property also contains a small thatched shed that is used for storage of the farming materials and tools. The property is located on the west side of Bottle Creek Road.

Registered Proprietor: Garnett and Rosemary Jolly

Comprising 0.62 acre parcel with a gated townhouse development consisting of ten two-storey two bedroom townhouses, with a small swimming pool, deck, gazebo, marl driveway, car parking, limited landscaping, BBQ area and a surrounding security fence and wall.

The property is located in the Major Hill district of Bottle Creek.

17. Title No. 60719/110 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Finbar Grant

Comprising 0.59 acre parcel with a two-storey detached residence, a guest suite and a single-storey guesthouse and is located in the residential sub-division in Discovery Bay. The two-storey detached residence has four/five bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, library, a substantially complete cinema room, laundry room, kitchen, breakfast room, family room and a separate office. The guest suite contains a bedroom, bathroom and a kitchenette. The single-storey guesthouse contains a studio with a bedroom and bathroom and a separate efficiency unit with a bathroom, bedroom and kitchenette. The property also contains a swimming pool and a concrete boat dock.

18. Title No. 60907/226/K4 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Michael Eugene Misick

Located at the Providenciales Golf Club in the development known as The Palms. The property is unit 4 and is a two-storey, two-bedroom townhome comprising 1,282 square feet. The unit benefits from discounted of the golf course, tennis courts and has communal access to the swimming pool and parking area in front of the unit.

19. Title No. 61113/217 Long Bay Hills, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Robin Roselitta Cox

Comprising 0.85 acre parcel located in the Long Bay Hills sub-division near the Conch Farm and the Marina at Heaving Down Rock. The property contains a two-storey building and a single storey building.

The two-storey building contains one two-bedroom unit and two one-bedroom units, all with open living space. The single-storey building contains a two-bedroom house with open living space.

20. Title No. 51105/46, Bottle Creek North, North Caicos

Registered Proprietor: Obed Nathaniel Gardiner Comprising 0.78 acre parcel located in Major Hill in the Bottle Creek North section of North Caicos. The property is in a developing residential sub-division and contains three buildings. The first building consists of a two-storey ten-unit apartment building, with four two-bedroom units and six one-bedroom units, all with open living space. The second building consists of a part single-storey and two-storey seven-unit apartment building, with two two-bedroom units and five one-bedroom units, all with open living space. The third building consists of a two-storey two-bedroom unit with open living space on the upper level and a storage and workshop area on the lower level. The property is lightly landscaped with native mature trees and plants and has a gazebo and a front boundary wall.

21. Title No. 60715/210 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Lincoln Hudson Ferriera

Comprising 0.54 acre parcel with bare land containing dense indigenous bush and mature trees and is accessed via turning off the unpaved Turtle Creek Drive, which runs from the west of the Shell Station and proceeding southerly until the T junction, the subject land is accessed by taking the western turning and following the road until just before the canal starts to curve, where the subject land is located on the right hand side immediately fronting the canal.

M & S Trust Company Limited. as Chargee pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance hereby gives Notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the following property outside the offices of Miller Simons O’Sullivan, Second Floor, The Beatrice Butterfield Building, Butterfield Square, Providenciales at 10:00 a.m. on 5 March 2013.

1. Title No. 10102/14 North East Suburbs, Grand Turk Registered Proprietor: Daniel Stevenson Simmons

Comprising a 15-acre parcel with bare land. The property is located in the North East Suburbs in ‘The Ridge’, with frontage on North Creek and Lighthouse Road. The property has views over North Creek and the western shoreline.

7867

March 2 - 8, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

QUALITY SUPERMARKET

QUALITY INTERIOR Is looking for a

Labourer

Painter VACANCIES

Contact: 342-9831

Contact: 941-7929

SAMUEL WILSON

WILLIAM E. JOSEPH Is looking for a

Is looking for a

is looking for the following persons:

Domestic Worker

Labourer

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 346-0205

contact: 342-2511

work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

6846

6845

Babysitter Must be willing to

6889

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 245-3720

Grace way IGA Supermarket is a seeking suitably qualified applicant to fill the following position:

Finance Analyst Job Requirement & Responsibilities: • ACA/ACMA/CMA/CPA qualified with a minimum of 5 years post qualification experience in a financial analysis position • Management and development of pricing system and processes • Detailed gross margin analysis to identify and correct pricing anomalies • Support Pricing & Logistics Managers maintain the accuracy of company databases, recommend and implement controls to prevent database inaccuracies from occurring • Review and develop freight and duty allocation methodologies to ensure accurate cost allocation to individual products.

• Extensive experience of querying databases using computer programming languages (eg SQL) • Detailed knowledge and practical experience of accounting software (eg SAGE) • Advanced Excel skills essential including the use of pivot tables, VLookup functions and embedded logic formulas • Act as the link between Finance and IT, representing the Finance team at IT Steering Committee meetings • Ad-hoc analysis to support operational decision making, including new product and vendor assessment • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple tasks Salary will commensurate with qualification and experience Deadline for submission of applicants is March 15th 2013

Submit to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracwayiga.com Please Note: Only short-listed applicants will be contacted to attend interviews

6847

The leading and trusted security company in TCI is in need of personnel to fill up the following position.

OPERATORS /CUSTOMER CARE REPRESENTATIVES Qualifications:

• min of 4 years relative experience in customer service & excellent interpersonal skills, or 2 years as a Central Station Operator • excellent written & verbal English communication (can write comprehensive reports) • excellent knowledge of computer esp. MS Office & Monitoring Software; very good knowledge of alarm systems and minor troubleshooting • CSAA Operator certification; diligent and very thorough work habits • must be a team player & can work with minimum supervision • Salary starts $6.00 per hour.

Qualifications: • • • • • •

MECHANIC

Minimum of 5 years experience in vehicle repairs & maintenance of different make & model Must be able to service company vehicles any time of the day or night Computer literate; possess technical & similar certificates Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills (English) Possess a valid TCI drivers license; Must be an excellent team -player Salary starts @ $5.50/hr

MARKETING/SALES AGENT Qualifications: • • • • • • •

Minimum of 8 years experience or in direct marketing/sales Excellent work & presentation skills; must have excellent computer skills Can design sales/mktg materials Very good knowledge in security, alarm electronics, access control, etc Must be an effective communicator & public relations person Possesses own transportation and have a valid TCI drivers license; Salary starts @ $1500 plus commission

TECHNICIAN Qualifications: • • • • •

Minimum of 5 years experience in alarm industry w/ excellent work history Computer literate; possess technical or engineering certificates Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills (English) Possess a valid TCI drivers license; Must be an excellent team -player Salary starts @ $1300 plus commission

ADMIN ASSISTANT/JUNIOR ACCOUNTANT Qualifications: • • • • • •

Minimum of 5 years related experience Must have very good knowledge in accounting programs e.g. QuickBooks Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills (English) Possess a valid TCI drivers license Must be an excellent team-player Salary starts @ $1300/month

Requirements for all positions above: Comprehensive resume’ w/ 2 ID photo Employment certificates from previous employers Training certificates; Police & fingerprint records

How to apply:

1. Submit resume’ with application letter, employment and training certificates, copy of police record, passport to Spence Security office 2. Wait for Spence Security personnel to call you for an interview Interested applicants should send resume’ and applicable certificates address to: ‘The HR Manager’ not later than March 8, 2013 to:

SPENCE SECURITY & INVESTIGATION SERVICES, LTD. P.O BOX #73, Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Email address:HR@spencesecurity.com Fax: 941-3027 BELONGER ONLY NEED APPLY. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

6885

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

RAFAEL CASTILLO

SPENCE SECURITY & INVESTIGATION SERVICES, LTD

Is looking for a

44

Sports National

PHL Playoffs:

Sharks open with two wins – Munnings scores eight in Flames’ victory THE SCOTIABANK Sharks have won their opening games in the Bantam Division of the Provo Hockey League (PHL) Playoffs, but in terms of individual performances it was Rajhan Munnings who shined.

Munnings scored eight goals as his Flames ended round one as the only undefeated Midget Division side.

In the Mini-Division the Sailrock Lobsters won

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

their lone encounter while opponents, the Gansevoort Gators and the Gracebay Car Rental and Sales Owls, suffered a loss each.

while Javiera Bovell scored all the goals for the Lightning.

Bovell’s teammate, Cole Nickson was the perfect passer as he finished with two assists.

CLOSE CLASHES The Sharks defeated the J & W Construction Hurricanes 2-1 before edging past the Coco Bistro Lightning 4-3.

Sean Karam scored twice for the Sharks in the second clash,

FLAMES ATTACK The Flames out hustled the Pirates 10-6 in the first Midget clash. Along with Munnings’s eight goals, Wellington Williams was also in the thick of things with two successful

strikes.

For the Pirates the day belonged to Gabriel DiotteJoly, who not only scored three goals in the losing clash, but chalked up five as his team defeated the Panthers 7-6 later on. Kennon Higgs led the Panthers with five goals and an assist in that game.

MINI PLAY The Gators went down 2-4 to the Sailrock Lobsters, after Joshua Saunders scored twice for the winners, before bouncing back to defeat the Owls 3-2. Zachary Scholar led the Gators’ attack with two goals.

Spa Therapist

Stallions still undefeated – Hand defending champs third loss THE Grand Turk Stallions certified themselves as the team to beat in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League with a four point victory over defending champions the Flyers when the two powerhouse sides met last Friday.

The only undefeated side went on to claim their 13th win on Saturday night over the North Caicos Spartans. That game ended 72-52 with Damon

STRATA 59

Labourer Is looking for a

With over 5 years experience in all types of Massages and facials plus other skin/body care services as well as Manicure/Pedicure. Applicants experience must include working in the Tourist Sector. Wages $300 per week plus commission scheme.

The successful applicant must be a team player and highly motivated to excel.

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

6880

For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 231-1092 Mon to Fri between hrs of 10am and 5pm. Resumes and references required.

Applications would be considered from Belongers only and must be received by 13th March, 2013.

PABA Night League:

contact: 241-4070

Seymour and K. Williams scoring 14 and 13 points respectively. The Spartans were led by E. Williams (14 points).

Friday’s game was however the talk of the weekend as Ira Taylor had a huge doubledouble with 20 points and 18 boards, while T. Lightbourne scored 16 points and made 11 rebounds in the 73-69 point win.

The Flyers’ Dorado Fullford led all scorers with 22 points, while A. Cash, S, Brass and S. Williams added 10 points each.

South Caicos Harbour Boys are in second place with 12 wins and two losses after defeating the Knights 65-49 in their latest clash.

Kirk Adams led the winners with 15 points and five boards, but it was the Knights’ D. Weydens who led the game with 20 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. His teammate P. Sylvin had 19 points and three steals.

Flyers are third with 13 wins and three losses, while Predators are fourth with nine wins and five losses. Steelers are fifth with eight wins and seven losses while Police are sixth with seven wins and seven losses. Cobras, Knights, Spartans, Customs and Shottas are below .500.

6848

Josh for Sports

Let’s get wet WIND SHIFTS THE wind can behave erratically and the most common reason for shifts, lulls and puffs can be the local topography. Land masses can re-direct the wind, funnel it and effectively block it as well.

Headlands can cause the wind to eddy and change direction.

Sailing too close to a downwind headland can put a boat in split current of wind or even a reverse flow or “echo” off the land. Sailing around a windward headland can put a lull, only to expose you to a blast as you get around the end.

Two headlands separated by a low beach can create a funnel that actually “squeezes” the wind and boosts its speed. The same thing can happen at the mouth of a harbour or within a narrow channel between two islands.

There are also thermal phenomena created to a certain extent by topography. Local wind conditions often vary according to the time of the day because of the uneven heating and cooling of

temperature as the air over the land warms, it starts to rise; the air over the water, being cooler, moves in to displace the rising land-air, and convection begins. This is the start of the sea breeze or on shore breeze.

By Joshua Gardiner the land. Because of this, daily shifts in wind occur. The process is best illustrated by a typical summer day in a temperate region.

MORNING Land and water are at terminal equilibrium as the sun warms the air.

There can be no convection; the flow of air is from cool to hot so there is no wind.

MIDDAY The wind is warming rapidly, the water is staying at its normal summer

AFTERNOON The convection is in full swing and the sea breeze is getting stronger.

This is the warmest part of the day in many seaside locations and therefore the wind’s potential is greatest now.

LATE AFTERNOON With the sun low on the horizon, the trend is back towards thermal equilibrium—the afternoon breeze begins to die.

EVENING Thermal equilibrium achieved. No wind.

is

again

LATE NIGHT Sometimes an offshore or “land” breeze can develop if the night is clear enough and the atmosphere allows enough heat to radiate from the land.

part II– Small boat sailing theory Because the water holds heat better, a thermal imbalance can develop and convection can start, though rarely as vigorous as the daytime version.

Obviously, the large weather system can also cause extreme wind shifts. However these are usually associated with periods of extreme weather and are irrelevant for the novice, who should not venture out during such periods.

FLAGS Flags are the most basic forms of wind indicator. But a flag on a pole ashore will indicate only how the wind is blowing atop its staff; it will not tell you the nature of the wind in your direction. Regardless of the type of boat, a skipper needs more than just his own sense to monitor the exact direction of the wind.

One thing to keep in mind about the wind indicators is that they show only apparent wind. As a boat moves through the water under any propulsive force—be it sail, oars or outboard—it creates its own wind and the vector (the force and direction) of that motioncreated wind (always straight ahead)

combines with the vector of the natural or “true” wind to modify its direction.

If there is no natural breeze, the apparent wind will be straight ahead. If the true wind is straight ahead, the apparent wind will also be straight ahead, but stronger for the motion of the boat. If the natural wind is right behind, the apparent wind will reduce or even nullify its effect—or be reduced itself, depending on which is greater, the speed of the boat or the strength of the following wind.

And if the natural wind is perpendicular to the boat’s direction of travel, or at any other angle, the motion of the boat will add a vector and tend to swing the true wind towards the direction of its travel.

None of this really matters while sailing, as the wind a sailor deals with is always apparent wind. Therefore, his sense and his on-board wind indicators are the most appropriate sources of information on the wind.

Next week—the Classic points of sailing.

March 2 - 8, 2013

Sports National

45

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Williams makes Jamaican school history with under 45s 400M split

Ifeanyi Otuonye has broken the long jump national record for the sixth consecutive time.

It’s number six for Otuonye – Star jumper breaks long jump record again IFEANYI Otuonye wants to break the national record every time he long jumps. Since his season started with Kansas State University this year, he has done so.

Last weekend he competed in his biggest competition to date, the Big XII Indoor Championships, and notched up another milestone when he jumped 7.50M, his sixth consecutive record for the TCI. His jump propelled him into second place and resulted in his school winning the first and second prizes—a feat last achieved by Nebraska University in 1998.

Otuonye, who also has the indoor 400M record, said that the event was a lot of “fun”.

His jump erased the 7.40M mark he made a few weeks ago.

The Grand Turk athlete, who also triple jumps (sixth place finish), said his coach was amazed by his enthusiasm and drive and congratulated him on “getting better at every event”.

4X4 PB Otuonye did not stop at the jumps; he split a personal best of 48.2 to help his school in the 4X400M relay.

“I was rather fatigued because the triple jump was so close to the relay.

I can just imagine if I were fresh I would have easily split 47s on the starting leg and that gives me a lot of hope and is superb.”

His school finished third which is their best performance since 2004.

Otuonye is now looking forward to the outdoor season in which he feels he can break more records.

TCICA T-20 cricket final:

Beaches win after St. Ange dominates with bat THE ICC Americas Division 2 Championships best bowler, Damian St. Ange, proved that he is also very dangerous with the bat when he belted 92 unbeaten runs to chase down victory for Beaches against Police in the final of the TCICA T-20 cricket competition at the Downtown Ball Park last Sunday.

In the exciting clash, Police batted first and made a huge 196 all out with Ian Garness leading the way with 52, but with St. Ange firing, Beaches were able to make almost 10 runs per over to win the game with seven wickets in hand.

Ange has shown good form of recent since he scored a half century in the semi-finals of this

Damian St. Ange scored an unbeaten 92 runs to lead Beaches to victory.

competition before taking nine wickets (the most by any player) at last month’s ICC tournament.

IF his high level performance over the last few years for Munro College and his World Junior Championships 200M gold medal have not proven to the Jamaican people that Delano Williams is a world rated athlete and a possible power house in the years to come, his exploits at the Gibson Relays certainly cemented his capabilities.

Williams made Jamaican history by becoming the first school boy in that country to split under-45 seconds in the 4X400M relay.

So impressive was the TCI national sprint records holder that the spectators at the Gibson Relays were on their feet as he chased down the defending champions’ anchor-leg runner.

Williams had collected the baton after the Manchester High athlete, but took control at about the final 200M mark and surged ahead in 44.8s.

During his run the 100M, 200M and 400M national record holder was not thinking about a win: “I didn’t know if I could have won. I was just running my race to the best of my ability.”

He told the Weekly News that “it felt great” to achieve the feat in front of the Gibson crowd. After the race even the second fastest man in the world, Yohan Blake, congratulated Williams.

The Jamaica media were also abuzz with excitement about Williams’s feat.

Munro College’s Delano Williams anchors his team to victory in an exciting 4x400m final at the 37th Gibson Relays at the National Stadium on Saturday. (Photos: Bryan Cummings/Jamaica Observer)

FOCUS ON SHORTER SPRINTS Despite his amazing performance in the 400M this season, Williams is still focused on the 100 and the 200

metres. “I am just using the 400M right now for fitness.”

His main objective is however to successfully defend his titles during this month’s Champs.

International players for TCIRFU Rugby Ryder Cup The inaugural TCIRFU Rugby Ryder Cup is being held this Saturday afternoon, March 2nd at the Meridian Field. The Rugby Ryder Cup pits the best of North America and the Rest of the World against the British and Irish Lions.

The TCIRFU is welcoming back British and Irish Lion Paul Wallace who will be captaining the Lions team, and extending a first time welcome to Bob Latham from the USA. Latham is a current member of the International Rugby Board as well as a former USA rugby international.

The 15-a-side rugby match will be played across three periods with age group restrictions in place in a tag rugby format.

The game kicks off at 5pm and will go until 7pm. Gates will open at 4pm. There will be refreshments available at the ground along with music so the whole family is invited to come down and participate.

British and Irish Lions’ Paul Wallace will captain one of the teams on Saturday.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013

March 2 - 8, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

47

LAND FOR SALE In beautiful Bottle Creek, North Caicos

.46 acres overlooking the creek, spanning King Road and Windsor Road

QUICK SALE

CALL 232-3508, AFTER HOURS 332-6398

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 2 - 8, 2013