TC Weekly News August 12 - 18, 2023

CAYMAN ISLANDS HELICOPTER AND BAHAMAS FLAGSHIP DEPLOYED TO FIGHT CRIME

As the Turks and Caicos Islands grapple with gang warfare, alien to the territory but almost endemic to the region, coupled with an influx of illegal migrants, the police force’s beefed-up tactical operations will be strengthened with support from the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas in the air and sea.

TCI’s booming real estate market is pricing out locals – Premier – Government working to increase housing stock

The residential real estate market in Turks and Caicos Island is thriving, but this boom has been to the disadvantage of locals who are being priced out of the market as affordable housing is becoming increasingly scarce.

This is according to Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick who said his government is working zealously to address this problem in a strategic manner.

The expensive start-up costs for purchasing or building a home in the Turks and Caicos Islands has been a hot-button issue for a number of years, and many residents are still bemoaning the financial bottlenecks they face in seeking to buy a home, which often leads to them paying inflated rents.

Speaking at the recent launch of the National Housing Policy, Premier Misick stressed that his government remains steadfast on ensuring citizens benefit tangibly from the territory’s robust economy and that those who are desirous of owning a home will have adequate opportunities to make their dreams a reality.

He said: “TCI has a very thriving economy…the real estate market has been booming and I wish some of these bright people who are going into the real estate market would consider coming into government because with all of

these great ideas and programmes we're trying to roll out, we're having problem trying to attract good talent to run them and that is beginning to impact our delivery.

“So the truth of the matter is there's a plus and a minus to everything we do, and while this real estate market has been hot, burning hot, in a lot of cases it has been at the disadvantage of the people of these Turks and Caicos Islands because housing at the moment has priced most of us out of the market.

“And that doesn't matter whether you're making $100,000 or $25,000

a year, we are struggling to provide shelter for domestic occupation and we have to address that and this is just the first step.”

Misick explained that a number of other policy initiatives combined with the three short to mediumterm programmes recently launched to reduce the barriers to homeownership, improve the living conditions of existing homeowners and renew communities across the islands will be introduced in the near future.

He said: “This will ensure that we’re not only providing adequate and affordable housing to people of these islands but also that we do everything that we can to ensure that for those people who may have the wherewithal to choose to not benefit from these programmes, that they could still go into the marketplace and acquire affordable

homes because at the moment it is getting very very difficult.”

To achieve this feat, the government will collaborate with private sector contractors, bankers, developers, and other financial agencies to deliver on these projects.

“That requires leveraging in the most efficient way, the use of the remaining Crown land and it would probably involve the government acquiring additional land because the truth of the matter is, I believe it's somewhere between 19 or 22% of dryland is all that is available in the crown hands today”, he added.

He underscored that due to the depletion of dryland in the Turks and Caicos Islands, people will have to get used to the idea that not everyone in the territory needs or will continue to get an acre of land.

“That is just not sustainable, so we are turning our attention to housing, to shelter to make sure that next generation sustainability is the ability for the next generation to benefit from the resources of the country so that this generation does not deplete it all. “

The territory’s leader emphasised that providing affordable, adequate shelter for citizens of the Turks and Caicos Island is buttressed by his government’s manifesto.

He said: “So our focus is on sustainability and making sure that housing is sustainable, it is affordable, but it also is about the quality and quantity that is necessary to make sure that those homes are castles and to make sure that everyone has an equal opportunity for housing.”

“My government in the party's

manifesto has made it clear that the habit of giving people a piece of dirt stops here, our plan is to give people keys instead of dirt roads, and unfinished settlements, our focus is on building safe communities for all of our people to live in and that is the genesis of our housing policy.”

INCREASING THE HOUSING STOCK

In keeping with the government’s mandate to urgently increase the housing stock and opportunities for affordable home ownership in safe, fully serviced turn-key communities, the government plans to look favourably on mixed-income communities to include combinations of singlefamily residences, multi-unit lowrise family residences, as well as multi-unit medium-rise apartment complexes.

The new National Housing Policy states that the government will also support transitional and short-term residential accommodation in designated locations.

Recognising that the extent and cost of the housing effort is beyond the Turks and Caicos Islands government’s ability to deliver on its own, the government plans to work with the private sector through housing concessions and development agreements by subsidising the crown land cost, import duties on construction materials, and infrastructure.

The cost savings will be transferred as benefits to the purchasers, as part of a mutually beneficial partnership for all parties involved.

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Weekend shooting in Blue Hills under investigation

Detectives of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Polie Force are continuing investigations into the shooting and wounding of two men in Providenciales.

Police reported this week that at around 7:47 pm last Friday (August 4), 911 received multiple calls that gunshots were being heard in the area of Old Bay Road, Blue

Hills.

A team of officers from the Tactical, Beat and Patrol, and Air Support Units responded, and while at the scene, they were told that two men, ages 23 and 25, were at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre seeking treatment for gunshot wounds.

An hour later, sometime around 8:43 pm, more calls were received by 911 operators

of another shooting near Residence Yard in Five Cays. Police were dispatched to the scene, and investigations are ongoing.

The public is advised to notify the closest police station, contact 911 or TCI Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 and give any information on this shooting and other illegal activities anonymously.

Air and sea support for TCI

Cayman Islands helicopter and Bahamas flagship deployed to fight crime

As the Turks and Caicos Islands grapple with gang warfare, alien to the territory but almost endemic to the region, coupled with an influx of illegal migrants, the police force’s beefed-up tactical operations will be strengthened with support from the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas in the air and sea.

In an effort to stem a deadly crime wave that continues to threaten the country’s tourism and put an end to the carnage spilling onto the streets from feuding factions, the government has announced measures to boost the operational response of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

HE Governor Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam and Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick in a joint statement on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, disclosed several measures being implemented to put a dent in crime.

The governor and premier said: “The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Tactical Unit remain in active deployment in addition to strengthened patrols by our Community Policing Units, you will see more operational police officers across Providenciales as the RTCIPF continue their investigative and enforcement operations.

“Since our joint statement released on 2 August following a fatal shooting incident in Providenciales, there have been two further non-fatal shooting incidents in Blue Hills and Five Cays.

“The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) are actively investigating all three incidents.”

They explained that the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) has deployed one of its H145 helicopters and the crew arrived in the territory on Sunday.

“Since their arrival, the crew have been working with RTCIPF on planned operations to provide critical aerial support as part

of our operational response measures.

“The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is funding this deployment.

“In tackling our shared threats, the HMBS Bahamas, the flagship of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, is currently in our jurisdiction, working in collaboration with our maritime partners to patrol our territorial waters against any illegal activities occurring at sea”, the joint statement read.

They informed that members of the RTCIPF and TCI Regiment are currently on board the HMBS Bahamas as part of this joint operation.

The territory’s leaders explained that the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to work in partnership with US Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

“CBP assets are supporting the surveillance of our waters and those further afield, enabling early warning of suspicious vessels and acting as a deterrent to those who want to reach our islands undetected.

“To ensure the ongoing investigative capacity of the RTCIPF, the FCDO has allocated additional funding to extend the timeline of the serious crime team deployment.

“This immediate package of measures seeks to provide substantial capability to our operational response, coordinating efforts on both land and sea.”

They added that these measures will allow the police to continue to investigate vigorously and bring to justice those who are causing harm and threatening the territory’s peace and security.

“We are particularly grateful to the governments of the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands for their steadfast support at this critical time’,

“We will continue to assess threats and keep you informed of our efforts to ensure the safety and security of our communities.”

DOCK YARD

As part of the government's efforts to regularise housing in the TCI, an in-depth study of Dock Yard, which was identified as the most prominent of these locations, was undertaken to understand the ecosystems of these communities better.

The proliferation of informal settlements in the Turks and Caicos Islands has presented several national challenges, which, if not addressed, can have dire consequences.

The ISU recently made public the study aimed at improving and reshaping these communities to facilitate service delivery and ensure sustainability and security. The data-driven study which used an evidence-based methodology to gather baseline information, exposed the realities of the situation in the community.

The study pinpointed some of the key factors that have contributed to the expansion of Dock Yard, which includes the ongoing crisis in neighbouring Haiti, as well as the pull and push factors such as opportunities for work; romantic and familial relations; lack of opportunities and conflict/insecurity in the home country. Other contributing factors such as: "attraction for criminals, high cost of accommodation in the TCI, living standard, TCIG challenges: resources and corruption", were outlined in the study.

What are your thoughts?

Community-focused housing solutions

Implementing multi-residential owneroccupied housing programs can offer a viable solution to address housing challenges and foster sustainable economic enrichment in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). This can significantly benefit both the residents and the local economy by alleviating the housing shortage and promoting community development.

Positive Outcomes:

Housing Availability: Multi-residential owner-occupied housing programmes can help alleviate the housing shortage by optimising land use and accommodating more residents on a single property. This approach is particularly beneficial in areas with limited available land for development.

Affordability:

These programmes can offer affordable housing options for residents who may struggle to afford traditional single-family homes. Shared ownership and reduced construction costs can contribute to lower purchase prices or rental rates, making housing more accessible. This approach affords the property to be able to live in one unit and rent the other units.

Economic Enrichment:

Implementing multi-residential programmes can stimulate the local economy. Construction projects generate employment

opportunities, and the growth of housing units can attract businesses, leading to increased economic activity in the area.

Community Development:

Concentrating multiple residences on a single property encourages a sense of community and shared resources. This can lead to closer relationships among residents, fostering a supportive and connected neighbourhood.

Sustainable Practices: Designing multi-residential units with energy-efficient features can promote sustainable living practices, reduce utility costs, and contribute to environmental conservation.

Cultural Preservation:

By providing affordable housing options for Turks and Caicos Islanders, these programmes can help retain the local population and prevent displacement due to rising housing costs.

Long-Term Stability:

Encouraging ownership can provide residents with long-term stability and a sense of belonging. This can lead to increased civic engagement and community involvement.

Government Support: Government incentives and subsidies can be introduced to facilitate the development of multi-residential owner-occupied housing, making it an attractive option for both

developers and potential residents.

Regulatory Framework:

Establishing clear regulations and guidelines for multi-residential developments can ensure that they align with urban planning and community needs, contributing to wellorganized growth.

Education and Awareness:

Providing information and education to potential homeowners about the benefits and opportunities of multi-residential owner-occupied housing can encourage participation and support.

In conclusion, multi-residential owneroccupied housing programmes present a promising avenue for addressing the housing shortage and promoting economic enrichment in the Turks and Caicos Islands. By offering affordable, sustainable, and community-focused housing solutions, these programmes can not only alleviate the housing crunch but also contribute to the well-being and prosperity of local residents.

A second Haiti

The TCI has been facing an internal structural and systemic problem with Haitian settlements and illegal arrangements for over an entire generation. Sadly the policy response from elected officials has been slow and ineffective. One can surmise that the TCI is now a second Haiti, a creole-speaking country which has been fully “assimilated” with Haitian nationals. Even so, this community has had protections from certain political entities in the TCI, the UK government, the business community in search of cheap labour and the Haitian Consul.

The Informal Settlements Unit Study also revealed as a contributing factor to this “crisis” in Haiti, the Dock Yard Connection and the attraction for criminals. It is clearly seen that the police force and its high command, ie the commissioner and topranking officers, have all lost the confidence of the people and the official opposition in the TCI, owing to the weak response to crime and murders by this ill-fated “crimefighting agency”. With the exception of the Premier, this office has lost the ability to fight crime and lead an effective response to the recent spate of murders, in the eyes of the people of the TCI.

So, the amalgamation of shacks, centres for crime activity expanded with little and no policy response from the police force, the Department of Immigration, the planning department and the relevant agencies established to address this situation.

Public dialogue needed

It would take a serious public effort on the part of the people, government and opposition to address the problem. Members of the public are well aware of

who in the Immigration departments are involved with the illegal activity that gave rise to the situation, but many will not come forward. Should the leaks, the bad apples in the government, be exposed and dealt with this situation could be addressed.

There should be a series of public meetings hosted by the government and opposition to allow people to speak. The public will say who is compromising the radar systems and who in the planning department will not do their jobs. Who in immigration would be tipping off the resorts and building sites when raids are made? The system is built to enable what has happened to happen.

Money is there to pay for work permits and the evasion of security systems. This all needs to come out in the “wash”. Dock Yard can and should be cleaned up but it took a law enforcement contingent from the Bahamas to even enter Dock Yard. Why are the local police afraid to go there? With a $400m plus budget, the resources are there to develop systems to respond to the findings of the ISU report but need political will which seems clearly absent.

The “ongoing crisis in neighbouring Haiti, as well as the pull and push factors such as opportunities for work; romantic and familial relations; lack of opportunities and conflict/insecurity in the home country”, all of these factors underlie why TCI is under population assault. The will to marshal the resources, lead a national security council effort, and design a business case to allocate resources seems also missing. If they would liaise with people, the public and the PDM opposition in genuine dialogue solutions could be found.

Land of “opportunities”

Being a neighbouring destination with weak security forces, inadequate radar and national security apparatus, the TCI is and has always been a natural place to come, when fleeing the deteriorating economic and social situation in Haiti.

It requires vision and foresight to combat this situation. The response of the government is paltry in this state. Attempts were made in the past to address this but the prevailing political and economic consensus, in the business and political community, was that “we need the cheap labour in the TCI”.

How else would the villas, resorts and huge buildings be built affordably? So that



As kidnappings of women and children are surging in Haiti amid rising gang violence, the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to report a weekly influx of boatloads of Haitians fleeing the conditions in the country.

To date, for the year, 3030 illegal migrants have been detained trying to enter the territory, 2408 of whom were men, 622 women and 21 children.

This figure far surpasses what was recorded for the whole of 2021 and 2022. Official reports from the Ministry of Border Services earlier this year indicated that 1,426 persons were detained from 23 vessels in 2021, and in 2022, there were 2,132 persons arriving on 28 vessels.

The latest attempt to smuggle migrants into TCI was thwarted by Marine Officers last Friday (August 4).

Sometime around 3:14 am, the marine officers, via the Sea Protector vessel, intercepted an

illegal sloop, six point seven miles southeast of Providenciales. On board were 148 migrants, of whom 118 were men and 30 were women.

In reports this week, UNICEF has called the situation in Haiti, ‘Extremely worrisome’, particularly the kidnappings of women and children; with a reported 300 abductions in the first half of 2023.

This number almost matches the total number documented over 2022 and close to three times the number in 2021, UNICEF reported.

The overall situation in Haiti is catastrophic. Today, an estimated 5.2 million people, or close to half of the entire population, require humanitarian assistance, including almost three million children, UNICEF said in a report on Monday, August 7.

They said children find themselves in the crossfire, or directly targeted, and women

and girls face extreme sexual violence, as armed groups terrorize the population in their fight for territory and control, mainly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and also in other regions.

“Women and children are not commodities. They are not bargaining chips. And they must never be exposed to such unimaginable violence,” Gary Conille, UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, said in the news release.

Conille has called for the immediate release and safe return of all those who have been kidnapped.

On top of crime and violence, reports indicate that local healthcare systems are teetering on the brink of collapse amid a resurgence of cholera and severe malnutrition.

The increase in violence, looting, road blockades, and the pervasive presence of armed groups severely

obstruct humanitarian efforts, making it difficult to deliver much-needed aid to affected communities, UNICEF said.

They added that as months go by, it adds an increasing layer of fear and complexity to an already challenging environment for those delivering life-saving aid.

In July, Senior Officials in the United Nations Security Council called for an international security force to support Haiti in tackling the worsening crisis and curb gang violence.

Officials urged the Security Council to examine ways to address the multifaceted crisis, including the possible deployment of an international security force.

“The robust international force must complement and strengthen, not replace, the Haitian National Police,” María Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti said in her briefing to the

15-nation organ.

Migration of illegal Haitians to TCI hits 3030 for 2023 – as conditions in Haiti worsens

Similar calls were made by representatives from Jamaica, Barbados, Brazil, Albania and many other countries represented on the UN panel, including the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.

However, to date, nothing concrete has been done or decided. A point highlighted by the Chinese. The representative of China pointed out that, although he heard loud narratives of support for the deployment of an international security force, there was no concrete discussion, except to say that more study was needed. While conditions in the neighbouring country continue to worsen, the Turks and Caicos Islands is looking at a hefty bill in repatriation expenses, almost double that of 2022. In 2021, the government spent an estimated $3 million on illegal and irregular migration, and some $4m in 2022.

The territory also continues to feel the social impacts, as crime in Providenciales is once again on the rise.

backdoor to open borders and cheap labour was always there. There was always enough money in the TCI to pay for $120m hospital facilities, a $100m SIPT investigation, trials and asset recoveries. The monies were there to budget for effective crime fighting, proper surveillance equipment and proper security training for personnel in the immigration department.

In all of that, with ministers being aware that there were leaks in verification of documents, the weak radar systems, the sale of work permits and permanent residency status, the budgeting for systems to combat these issues was always absent. Most elected officials have benefitted from cheap labour so how could they implement systems and make proper business case proposals to fight the onslaught of the illegal in the TCI.

This ISU study is there but its remit cannot address the real underlying problem that the TCI has emerged as a haven for illegal activity.

Ready to be invaded

This study exposes what everybody always knew, that the TCI was always open for “business”. The finding that there was an "attraction for criminals, high cost of accommodation in the TCI, living standard, TCIG challenges, resources, and corruption” was always clear and there for all to see from day one.

The TCI is a special case where people come, inter-marry, assimilate and get around the system. If there are informal settlements in Dock Yard, where is the minister of planning, the cabinet, premier and PNP administration? Shouldn’t they all just go and resign?

Where there is a planning oversight, not being used, then ministers and governments “responsible” should do the right thing and go. This cannot be allowed and tolerated in the TCI today.

Tourist charged and fined with drug possession

Twenty-three-year-old Kaylin

Pena, a native of Mexico residing in the US, has been ordered to pay a fine of $3000 for drug possession or face 120 days in prison.

Pena and her companion Aaron Yehuda Mamann, 36, of California were jointly charged by police last Sunday, August 6 with possession of a controlled substance and possession with intent to supply.

Pena was also charged with Fraudulent Evasion under the Customs and Drug Ordinances. They were both placed on

station bail of $5000 each with a suitable surety.

The duo was nabbed following a sting operation by detectives of the Anti-Gang and Drug Unit last weekend.

Police said the Anti-Gang and Drug Unit was contacted by officers at the Customs Department last Friday, August 4 with information that led to the arrests.

Reports are that Pena had mailed packages of drug paraphernalia to herself in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Acting on the information received police conducted a sting operation in the Grace Bay district, and what appeared to be marijuana was found.

When she appeared in court on Tuesday, August 8, Pena pleaded guilty to the offence of drug possession.

The intent to supply charge was dropped and the woman was ordered to pay a $3,000 fine or face prison.

The charges against her coaccused Mamann were dismissed.

HOWARD HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL AIPORT REDEVELOPMENT: Government releases business proposal for potential investors

In an effort to attract investment for the redevelopment of the Howard Hamilton International Airport through a Public Private Partnership (PPP), the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA) and the government officially released an Information Memorandum on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.

The multimillion-dollar redevelopment project is expected to give the Howard Hamilton International Airport formerly known as the Providenciales International Airport a life cycle of at least 40 years.

The TCIAA officially released the document which outlines a business proposal to redevelop the airport at a forum attended by the Hon Premier Washington Misick and cabinet members as well as members of the private sector, at Beaches Hotel and Resort in Providenciales.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA), Mr Godfrey Smith during his remarks explained that the Information Memorandum essentially the TCIAA’s business case for investors, provides a comprehensive guideline on the expectations for the project.

He said: “The release of the information memorandum is defining the basic targets to be achieved from the redevelopment, it sets out a basic roadmap for potential bidders.

“Today, the Turks and Caicos Airports Authority and the Turks and Caicos Islands government is announcing the intent of an exercise to find a workable partner.

“The airport authority fully understands the economic

importance of the airport to these islands, it understands the sensitivity it holds to many and more importantly, it understands the trust that the peoples of the Turks and Caicos Island has placed in it to deliver a value greater economic successes and opportunities for the people of these islands”, he added.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the 'TCIAA Mr Selyvn Hawkins described the Airport’s business case as a significant milestone in infrastructure development geared towards inclusive growth in the TCI.

Underscoring the magnitude of this undertaking, Hawkins noted that the project is likely to be the largest infrastructure development and operations enhancement project undertaken in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands to date.

He said: “The project envisages a total preliminary investment of

about US$360m for a period of 30 years.

“This includes the construction of a new passenger terminal building of a minimum of 270,000 square feet for a capacity of approximately 2.5m passengers to include boarding bridges, increased commercial areas and increased VIP lounges and an expansion of the airside to add domestic and international standards, including the addition of a parallel taxiway to take place during the first five years.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is lauded as a premium/niche Caribbean tourist destination, with traffic mainly composed of highyield US inbound tourists.

The TCI also welcomes regularly scheduled flights from London, UK; Toronto, Canada; and neighbouring Caribbean islands among others. And there is still room to increase its tourist hotel offer density, the main driver

for air traffic development.

Against this backdrop, the development and modernisation of airports across the islands to facilitate international travel into and throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands is deemed a priority of the Turks and Caicos Islands government.

In this vein, he emphasised that the Howard Hamilton International Airport is the primary gateway to the TCI, “and is, therefore, an important and strategic asset for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, playing a preeminent role in the economic and social development of these islands”.

The airport registered 1.2m passengers in 2019, demonstrating a steady growth over the past decade, and it is estimated that by the year 2040, those numbers will double reaching about 2m passengers annually.

In the aftermath of Covid-19, travel into and throughout the

Turks and Caicos Islands returned at such a rapid rate that it surpassed its pre-pandemic traffic volume.

Hawkins stressed that the current infrastructure of the airport is not capable of appropriately supporting the current and projected future capacity demands.

He said: “The result of such constraints, which we in this room are all familiar with include long wait times for checking, security screening, and other passenger processing activities, delays in departures and arrivals, and overcrowding, which negatively impact passenger experience and overall safety.

“The limitations of the current infrastructure also present concerns for compliance with national and international regulations and standards, including safety, security, and environmental regulations.

“It has therefore been duly noted and acted upon as a matter of urgency, the need to redevelop the airport to improve capacity and to stimulate benefits on the National Airport network must be a priority.”

Highlighting the Government and the TCIAA’s conditions for the PPP, Hawkins said “Namely, first and foremost ownership in the airport must remain with the people at the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Secondly, the project should be designed to leverage the best of international experience and expertise in both airport construction and operations, so that value for money could be obtained through the project deliverables Thirdly, the project should be designed to secure world-class standards while highlighting the

Extreme violence, public safety and Premier’s lack of engagement with public – TCHTA and PDM raise concerns

The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) and the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) have raised several issues of concern with the rising crime situation in Providenciales.

The TCHTA’s main concern is that of engaging with their public and private partners in ensuring a secure environment for all, while the PDM’s Appointed Member in the Assembly, Honourable Alvin Garland is chiefly concerned with the need for additional skilled manpower within the ranks of the Police Force.

Garland has also called on the Government to address the people of the TCI, other than through press releases, one of which he issued this week, as a follow-up to last week’s press release on crime.

“We are seeing some startling times in TCI, and we need help to not only suppress what seems to be brewing again but to carry out real operations to remove guns from the streets that would otherwise not be removed.

“The PDM and I are calling on

the Premier to address his people other than through a Press Release.

The TCI has turned the corner and the question is how much more has to happen before we act decisively again,” the MP questioned.

He insists that the territory needs further outside help, chiefly because “we need the extra skills and manpower”.

He noted that the Bahamas has assisted TCI greatly in stemming the violent tide in late 2022, and another stint may be warranted.

However, he has also made calls for local capacity building in the territory’s Police Organisation.

“We have had seven or eight murders since June 5. We saw days where there were two murders in 24 hours. In these past two months, we have seen a shooting incident that saw three or four persons shot and by all accounts intentionally. We are seeing brazen day murders and now in the heart of Grace Bay.

“In the past two years, we have seen at least two beheadings and maybe a third. We have seen a trial

witness killed in close proximity to CID. These historic events have whisked by without matching attention,” Garland stated.

The Opposition MP is fearful that the Turks and Caicos Islands is on the verge of a repeat of its deadliest and bloodiest month in history – September 2022.

“Truth be told, we must all have known that this cycle of violence was only on pause. We must get ahead,” he urged.

He has also called on the Minister of Tourism and TCHTA to speak up and address the territory’s visitors, on the record.

“It is important to measure our comments in times like these, but the silence must stop and the call for help must be urgently sent out.”

He said the PDM stands ready to assist as this is a national threat.

“We encourage our people to be diligent and careful in their movements while we know tempers are raging among those who have suddenly found themselves grieving,” Garland said.

Late last week, (August 4), the TCTHA sounded their call for more to be done about the crime situation.

TCHTA President, James McAnally said that their directors have met with the Commissioner of Police as well as the Governor’s Office to voice their concerns, as the trend of extreme violence reared its head again.

He said: “We are concerned as an industry and as the nation’s largest employers that our citizens and guests must believe Turks and Caicos is a safe place to live and to visit.

“We field calls from travel advisors and prospective visitors having to provide comfort and assurance we are a safe destination. The only way this happens is if we see an increase in both communication and presence of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force along with arrests and convictions of guilty criminals.”

“We must see a consistent improvement instead of reactive efforts after major events,”

McAnally urged.

He said the association is extremely disturbed by the blatant disregard for human life displayed last week in Grace Bay with the shooting death of a man in broad daylight.

That murder is believed by Police to be linked to gang-related serious crime, motivated by revenge and retribution.

“We are certain that everyone agrees it should never happen and we will strongly advocate for a Zero Tolerance approach to these heinous crimes which have a direct negative impact on our island's economy and well-being,” the TCHTA President said.

He said the hospitality community, is prepared to once again pool resources to aid the police force with lifesaving and surveillance tools.

“We also support the plea from the Government for the community to share information in the most confidential way. Information and communication are key. If provided, a strategic plan can often be created to capture and eradicate a threat before innocent lives are negatively impacted.”

Government releases business proposal ...

best of the TCI.”

He emphasised that the project deliverable should be representative of the Turks and Caicos Islands, “representing her aesthetics, culture and her people”, adding that success in the project must be looked at and measured beyond project output and there must be an emphasis on its socioeconomic impact.

“To this end, the government has made it clear that the deliverables of the project should create opportunities for local investment and or other participation.

“It should empower rather than disenfranchise the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands and should result in an increase of employment and skill development opportunities for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands rather than taking away from it.”

He noted that we need to maintain the role of the Turks and Caicos Islands as the preferred luxury destination as the top choice for high-value tourism which results in a unique value proposition and strategic goal for the country.

The second is to implement the required actions on the national transportation modes, in particular, focusing on the main gateway for air travellers, as ultimate facilitators of tourism development

Public Private Partnership

The government’s decision to pursue a PPP is premised on a wider understanding and approach to value for money and the benefits which can be achieved for the

greater social good.

Hawkins said: “There exists good reason to believe that through a meticulously designed programme and business plan, complemented by an open public and honest procurement exercise and topped off by robust contract development, implementation, and management programmes shrouded in good governance, there exists a private entity or consortium thereof

with whom we can partner with to redevelop the Howard Hamilton International Airport.

“More specifically, we believe a renowned international airport operator could be engaged for the operation and maintenance of the airport, while the construction of the asset can occur via a local investor or consortium thereof who would be in the process of preparing themselves for

the construction of the project, contract the requisite skills and project experts experienced in the construction of airports within the similar scope contemplated.

“The PPP model we are pursuing has the ability to optimise benefits, which can be gained from a blend of innovation, efficiency and accountability, derived from the resources of both the public and the private sectors.”

Thank you, police officers, for being visible in our community

Your presence is a deterrent to some of those involved in illegal activities

When things are not going right, many of us make a big issue about it by criticizing and blaming the relevant individuals. On the other hand, when things appear to be going right, many of us remain quiet and don’t give thanks or show appreciation.

The Turks and Caicos continues to face so many criminal activities and many times we blame the police. While we must hold the police, especially the police commissioner, accountable for catching criminals and making sure there is adequate evidence against criminals, the reduction in criminal activities requires all of us to do our part. However, this article is not about that but rather to thank the police officers for being visible in our community.

I cannot speak for the other communities on the island of Providenciales nor the other islands, but I must say it is great to see the presence of police officers

in my area every evening as I pass to go to my home in Chalk Sound.

Many of us have been advocating for more visibility of police officers in the community. In fact, being visible in the community should be a requirement of our police officers. We should not wait until a crime takes place to become visible.

For the past couple of weeks, I was very surprised to see police officers and police vehicles on a nightly basis in the vicinity as you enter the road to go to Five Cays. This was a breath of fresh air and a

welcome to us. Therefore, I want to use this medium to thank the police officers publicly for being there. It makes me feel better knowing that the police are not only visible in the community but also checking vehicles. I personally think it is a deterrent to criminals. When criminals are aware of the presence of police officers, I think they will think twice before they commit their criminal activities. The police’s presence also will keep some of these illegal jitneys off

the streets. It will also encourage some individuals to make sure that the licensing of their vehicles is current.

While I am grateful for the presence of the police officers, I also want to challenge them to remain consistent in their visibility in the community. Too many times, we start something and then we discontinue until something happens.

I also hope that you are not only visible in one community. Your presence is needed in all the communities because if you are in

only one community, it is possible that the criminals may be making plans to carry out their criminal activities in other communities where there is a lack of police presence.

Again, thank you police officers for being visible in my community. I also want to encourage others to thank the police officers when they are doing something right. I know some critics may say why thank them for doing their job. A thank you is an encouragement and goes a long way.

Do not be another health statistic

Nowadays, we cannot ignore the acceleration of technological change in our sphere! The pace of inventiveness – especially in information technology – has rocketed and the possibilities of these wonders are monumentally important; however, they posit grave risks to the recipients.

While ‘man’ is proficient in performing miracles through advanced medicines, and may have good intentions to curbing diseases, I am adamant, Elon Musk’s “Neuralink” technology is a step gone too far.

Coerced by their innovative feat and profitability, researchers have overstepped the thresholds and in the interim defied the true design of creation.

And now, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved Musk’s “Neuralink” implantable brain-machine interface for clinical trials in humans. Since then, a few people have volunteered for the transplant.

Following this, Musk tweeted that his new invention will create a utopian world, which would propel humanity into its own evolution and prevent them from becoming obsolete to artificial intelligence (AI).

This chip would connect the brain to the internet and computers through an ultra-high bandwidth brain-machine interface. It promises to enhance human’s ability to learn and remember new information, improved human-AI communication and collaboration, and higher quality of life for the disabled.

But “Neuralink” potentially have many risks! If not implanted correctly it can cause permanent damage to the brain, leading to brain infection. Besides, the recipients’ brains can be hacked for information and; therefore, this is subject to abuse and misapplication.

Too, there is no in-depth research on the long-term effects of brain-computer interface (BCI). Likely, this invention could have unintended negative consequences like addiction, anxiety, or depression, and in the event of a fault; it is difficult to remove or

utopia

repair.

Comparably, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention – without proper understanding – rendered many promises about the Covid-19 vaccines. They guaranteed protection from becoming seriously ill, being hospitalized and even death, which have proven otherwise, as many people, after taking the vaccines with multiple booster shots were hospitalized, contracted the virus and some even died.

Still, they pressured the unvaccinated to get vaccinated because the vaccine works and coerced the vaccinated to take the booster because the vaccines didn’t work while telling everyone that the unvaccinated is putting the vaccinated in danger by not getting vaccinated!

Yesteryear, we desired and depend on God to heal our sickness and provide for our needs. Today, we’ve turned to science and mere ‘man’ for our survival.

History is witness, while inventions are beneficial in many ways; they also engender negative lifelong impacts. According to Scotland’s National Health Information Services, the Covid-19 vaccines – like other medicines – posit side effects, like heart inflammation, aches and chills, swollen glands of the armpits and neck, and shortness of breath.

Considering this, if I had the opportunity I’d ask Musk, how would heat generated from the implanted wires, which send and receive signals, be mitigated to safeguard brain tissues. What would happen when someone with bad intentions hacks the brain? Granting the wires are so thin, how would they stay in position while the head is in motion?

While I respect the dignity of the recipients, I am resolute; this invasive device is a bad idea. TCI, you’ve been warned. However, the final decision remains yours!

– As Musk’s “Neuralink” brain-computer interface promises to transition us into a technological

Lessons on leadership from one of history’s greatest leaders

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Throughout all of history, King David of Israel stands as an emblem of leadership excellence. His journey from a humble shepherd boy to a mighty warrior king is replete with insights that transcend time, offering a compelling blueprint for effective leadership. The virtues that shaped David's reign align harmoniously with the teachings of modern leadership literature, underscoring the enduring relevance of his life's lessons.

RESILIENCE AND PERSEVERANCE:

David's ascent to the throne was marked by setbacks and trials that tested his resilience and determination. His psalms, such as Psalm 57:1-3 - Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy!

I look to you for protection. I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings until the danger passes by. 2 I cry out to God Most High, to God who will fulfill his purpose for me. 3 He will send help from heaven to rescue me, disgracing those who hound me. My God will send forth his unfailing love and faithfulness” bear witness to

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

his unwavering faith in the face of adversity. This echoes Angela Duckworth's concept of "grit" in her book "Grit," emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in achieving long-term goals. David's ability to endure challenges inspires leaders to embrace resilience as a cornerstone of success.

EMPOWERMENT AND TEAM BUILDING:

David's leadership was characterized by his capacity to build a diverse and capable team, as seen in 1 Samuel 22:1-2 (NLT) "So David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. Soon his brothers and all his other relatives joined him there. 2 Then others began coming—men who were in trouble or in debt or who were just discontented—until David was the captain of about 400 men." This highlights the power of

3,000

Some things sound so much better [BET]+[-UH] when they are said with an English accent.

Admittedly, the Mancunian accent, the one that I am used to, never did for me. For some reason, I have always found refuge in a poetic-English accent. In fact, I was hooked on Made in Chelsea, because they all sounded so dreamy.

For those of you, who do not know what Made in Chelsea is, it is a British reality TV show, documenting the lives of a handful trust-fund-youngBrits who live in white-stuccofronted-homes in London's most expensive neighbourhoods and vacation in Saint-Tropez. I gobbled every season.

I melt for anyone with a slight private-school and upper-class British accent. Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley,

empowerment and the creation of a strong support system, echoing Patrick Lencioni's insights in "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team."

David's adeptness at nurturing individual strengths within his team serves as a testament to fostering collaboration and shared success.

INNOVATION AND ADAPTABILITY:

David's innovative approach to warfare, as illustrated in 2 Samuel 5:23-24 (NLT), "And again David asked the Lord what to do. “Do not attack them straight on,” the Lord replied. “Instead, circle around behind and attack them near the poplar trees. 24 When you hear a sound like marching feet in the tops of the poplar trees, be on the alert! That will be the signal that the Lord is moving ahead of you to strike down the Philistine army," exemplifies adaptability and innovation. His strategic thinking

mirrors the need to embrace change and evolve in dynamic environments. David's fearless pursuit of uncharted strategies serves as a lesson in the art of staying ahead of the curve.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE:

David's mastery of emotional intelligence is evident in his discernment and empathy towards others, evident in passages like 2 Samuel 24:17 (NLT): “When David saw the angel, he said to the Lord, “I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep—what have they done? Let your anger fall against me and my family." This echoes the teachings of Daniel Goleman in "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ." David's ability to connect on an emotional level, coupled with his genuine

concern for his people's wellbeing, underscores the impact of emotional intelligence on effective leadership.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY:

David's unflinching accountability for his mistakes, illustrated in 2 Samuel 12:13 (NLT), "I have sinned against the Lord," reflects John C. Maxwell's emphasis on ownership and accountability in "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership." David's willingness to accept responsibility underscores the significance of transparency and integrity in effective leadership. In the tapestry of leadership wisdom, the life of King David stands as a rich source of guidance. As his story interweaves with contemporary leadership literature, it illuminates timeless principles from the Bible that continue to shape remarkable leaders today. From resilience to emotional intelligence, innovation to accountability, David's legacy offers an enduring roadmap for leadership excellence that resonates even in the complexities of the modern world. The best leaders today are the ones who mirror and exemplify the principles of the Bible. Do the same. You Are Loved.

ways to say ‘drunk"

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

Emma Watson, Steven Fry and most certainly David Attenborough can say vile things to me, and I will be completely fine with it. I am up for a bedtime story, any time. Give them a mic and let them read me the newspaper front to back. It is totally ok!

The Brits do have a way with words. I admire that. The simplest things sound a lot more interesting. It’s not “bathroom or

toilet”_ it’s the loo. It’s not “like”_ it’s fancy. And it is certainly not “drunk”_ it’s some 3,000 othersophisticated-replacement words. So here 40 of them. Write them down, they may well be useful the next time you find yourself in London, pissed and off your tits.

1. Drunk as a skunk, drunk as a lord, drunk as a judge or drunk as a newt: extremely

and blindly drunk

2. Bibulous, buzzed, buggered, blootered or blathered: when one lost their speech in the process

3. Destroyed and intoxicated: when one is close to his own death drunk

4. Tanked up, trashed, topheavy or totally and utterly carparked: when one ignored their limit and now regretted it.

5. Bevvied: Seconds away from alcohol poisoning

6. Arseholed or annihilated: when one is practically dead

7. Rat-arsed and paralytic: when one is so drunk, they can no longer move or function

8. Inebriated: when one had at least 5 pints past their limit

9. Troattered, bladdered, smashed or mashed: when the barman refuses to serve

you. It is that bad!

10. Three sheets to the wind, out of their tree or away with the fairies: It’s a miracle you’re still alive

11. Pissed, trollied, plastered or battered: when you have no clue where either your phone or house-keys are

12. Off their face, off their head, off their tits, titted or lashed: the point where one forgets his/her own name

13. Floored, hammered: when one is down. For good!

14. Spinning without moving: when one is about to vomit

15. Pissed as a fart: the point where you need to find a cab, a taxi or a pavement

16. Lubricated, well oiled, or greased: the point one reaches, where they need a

Archaic laws and policies in TCI – it’s time for a change!

Like many developed countries, there are a number of laws and policies still in existence on the books in the Turks and Caicos Islands that have no place in a progressive society.

These laws are negatively impacting our way of life and many citizens deemed them to be antiquated, obsolete and should no longer be applicable in some cases.

Case in point: If a motorist decided he or she no longer has use of a vehicle they previously owned or if the vehicle becomes mechanically disabled, they cannot just abandon it without renewing the tags. If for some reason the owner decides to renew the tag years later, they could be subjected to stiff fines dating back from the year the original tag expired. Does this make logical sense in a civilized society?

If a motorist is found in violation, a traffic ticket should be issued. Perhaps, an alternative should be to apply a nominal late fee during the renewal of vehicle registration.

Likewise, a similar situation applies to driver’s license holders.

If for one reason or another be it financial, illness, personal or imprisonment, if a driver decides

not to renew their licenses and take a sabbatical from driving, they will be subject to fines dating back to the year they allowed their DL to lapse.

As a matter of fact, a pending case was recently brought before the courts in TCI, still awaiting a verdict.

A revision of such laws could avert a perpetuation of what some would consider a choice of survival; like driving with an invalid license to get to work due to the exorbitant cost associated with renewals.

These fines could equate to hundreds if not thousands of dollars for some, especially for the diaspora who were previous driver’s license holders returning to their homeland. The same predicament applies to those who may not be in a financial position to purchase another vehicle instead of renewing an old tag.

Thirdly, apparently, there is an ordinance or policy on the books that requires high-ranking

ministerial government vehicles to have their title on the license plates.

Despite the closely knitted communities, in my opinion, such ordinances should certainly be reviewed and revised to limit exposure.

This may seem minuscule, but from a national security standpoint, with the exponential growth in irregular migration to TCI over the years, in addition to the level of violence the country is now experiencing, it could be a potential safety risk for the officials themselves and those tasked with protecting them.

There is also a pressing need to reform our current business license ordinance and find ways to consolidate fees and eliminate some of the red tape.

For example, why is it necessary to pay a fee for a business name search if your existing business is keeping the same name? It’s understandable if it is a new startup company or if there was a lapse

in the renewal of business licenses.

Laws like these, in the long run, could have wider implications and impact, especially on the growing number of local entrepreneurs and those who are already marginalised.

On a more positive note, citizens welcome the news of having digital access to our laws in TCI, as announced by the AG’s office some months ago.

In an era of polarisation and increased involvement of citizenry, having online access to our system of laws and justice is very beneficial.

TCI is at a stage in its development where we must transcend time. As our society grows and develops, it should not rely so heavily on tradition. Sometimes new laws are needed or old laws need to be changed for the benefit of the people.

We know it can be done because we have seen it played out over the years where special interest groups or big corporations with specific goals, being able to poke and prod legislators to take positions on new policies or regulations. Some, not necessarily in the best interest of the country or beneficial to all concerned.

Our government should

constantly seek to reform our laws so we can ensure our system of law and justice meets the challenges of today’s society. Any changes must also be in the best interest of the masses not just a select few.

Ultimately, it’s the people of TCI who make the final decision by choosing to elect leaders with progressive ideas and agendas. Some of these sectors require urgent attention and revision. Failure to revise existing laws that are no longer relevant could disproportionately impact certain segments of the population. It could also put natives at a disadvantage and infringe on our rights and responsibilities, including future careers and the way we work.

In order to stay ahead of the curve and drive real transformation, we will need more citizens with a shared thirst for justice, a deeper compassion for others and a heightened sense of awareness.

I firmly believe that if individuals are allowed to freely pursue their self-interest in a free market like TCI, without the setback of archaic government regulations and red tape, our nation will continue to prosper in a more progressive way.

“The discussion was highly productive, and they delved into matters of mutual concern between

UK contract firm hired to strengthen the management of TCI hospitals

P2G, a UK-based contract support firm has been hired by the government of the Turks and Caicos Islands to strengthen management of the TCI hospitals’ Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The engagement of P2G, is also aimed at building contract management capacity in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Ministry of Health and Human Services said in an invited statement on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.

The firm will be supported by University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust on the clinical elements of the contract.

The University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a Central London University

teaching and research hospital delivering top-quality patient care, excellent education, and worldclass research across a number of London hospitals.

The ministry stressed the importance and impact of contracts on all levels of an organisation, which govern the rights and obligations of every commercial relationship.

“High-quality contract management is therefore essential to ensure service delivery, which in the hospitals' context leads to better health outcomes and improved value for money.

“P2G is known for its commitment to improving PPP contract management and has considerable experience in health

3,000 ways to say

CONTINUED FROM  11

loo, a kebab_ or both

17. Sloshed, blitzed or blottoed: when someone have to double check that you are in fact, still breathing

18. Comfortably numb: drunk but out of everyone’s way

19. Slaughtered, lashed or mullered: when no one is certain if you’re dead or alive

20. Off the wagon: hysterically drunk

21. Seeing double, can’t lie down without holding on: the stage where the world is ending with you in it

22. Zombied: indisputably drunk

23. In his cups: when you have no idea where you are anymore but you still ask for one more pint

24. Ripe and ready: the stage when someone probably shouts: (s)he needs bread now!

25. Fallen from grace: when you’ve lost your honour, respect, integrity and any decorum you once had

26. Wankered: superlatively drunk (vulgar but it sets the image beautifully)

27. Blitzed or blottoed: utterly drunk because you

...

have been drinking since 10AM

28. Chemically unbalanced: can’t walk, can’t talk, but still want to keep going

29. Squiffy: slightly drunk

30. Stewed: very drunk

31. Transfused: so drunk you turned into something unrecognizable

32. Beered up or lagered: a state where the bouncer advises you to go home. It’s time

33. Rubbered or boiled in the bag: sloppy drunk

34. Leathered or loaded: You have had enough

35. Fuddled: confused or stupefied

36. Overcome: when one’s breathing is a the grace of God

37. Xylophoned: incapably drunk

38. Interplanetary: when one is between planet earth and planet death

39. Vulcanised: about to be their last drink ever

40. Wrecked, wasted, wellied, sozzled or rinsed: when one is self destructively drunk

What is your best British saying and why?

I'd love to know. Do share on louisedens@gmail.com

TCI Hospital -Cheshire Hall Medical Centre

sector PPPs.

“This collaboration between the Ministry of Health and by extension the Turks and Caicos Islands government, and P2G seeks to improve the effectiveness of the hospitals in TCI through better management of the highly complex and detailed contract which sets out how hospital services are provided”, the ministry said.

Commenting on retaining P2G, Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon Shaun Malcolm said, “This engagement of P2G will help the Ministry ensure that we are getting the best value and services as per the contract as well as guarantee that all parties in the contract adhere to their obligations”.

He further explained that P2G’s service improvement strategy centres on the implementation and close management of continuous improvement key performance indicators with measurable standards that aim to improve service quality and efficiency over time.

Working with P2G, the government looks forward to improvements in healthcare delivery, with greater efficiency, while developing contract management capacity more generally in TCI.

On its official website, P2G states that performance analysis forms a critical cornerstone of effective management and with contracts often spanning decades

and encompassing complex scopes, the robust analysis of contractor performance is not just crucial, it’s imperative.

The company states; “This is where P2G contract supports LLP, a leader in contract management and improvement plans, steps in as a vital ally for public sector authorities.”

The Turks and Caicos government signed a PPP contract with Interhealth Canada in 2008/09 to build and operate two hospitals in the territory, the Cockburn Town Medical Centre on Grand Turk and the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Providenciales.

The contract was signed during the time of former Premier Michael Misick.

TCI Community College now offers toptier construction training and certification

A significant step has been taken by the TCI Community College towards delivering on its promise of top-tier vocational training, with its recent certification as a National Centre for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Institution.

The announcement of the milestone achievement was made on Thursday, August 9, via a statement from the Government.

The government said this is a moment of triumph for the College's Technical Vocational, Education and Training (TVET) Programme, cementing its commitment to delivering top-tier construction training and certification, thus empowering the local workforce with industry-leading skills.

Dr Candice Williams, President of the TCI Community College: "We are thrilled and honoured to receive the first level of approval to gain accreditation status for NCCER, a significant step towards closing the national skills gap.”

She said the recognition reaffirms the college’s commitment to excellence in education and workforce development, enabling them to bridge the divide between industry demands and skilled professionals.

“With this milestone achieved, we look forward to empowering our

trainees with the highest standards of training, preparing them to become the workforce of tomorrow and contribute meaningfully to our nation's economic growth," the president said.

Kevin Baxter, Dean of TCICC's TVET Programme, said he is elated at the news and is excited about the programme’s future given the new development.

"Being recognised as an NCCER Institution opens doors for our students and positions them for success in their chosen careers. We are excited about the boundless opportunities that lie ahead," Baxter said.

The TCI Community College is now poised to offer a selection of NCCER courses in the short term designed to prepare individuals for entry-level positions in the construction field.

One of the two temporary courses is ‘Core: Introduction to Basic Construction Skills’, which is a comprehensive course that equips participants with essential knowledge in safety practices, hand and power tool operation, construction math, materials handling, construction drawings, rigging, and employability skills.

The other is ‘Carpentry: Providing learners with a solid

foundation in general carpentry skills’, and this curriculum covers more complex topics such as framing, finish carpentry, concrete, and form carpentry.

Looking forward, the College will be introducing additional NCCER courses in the medium to long term, further enriching the technical education offerings.

These forthcoming courses include HVACR, Plumbing, Masonry, Drywall Installation and Finishing, Construction Craft Labourer, Painting, Project Management, Project Supervision, and Solar Photovoltaic Installer.

Director of Workforce Development at NCCER, Cathy Tyler, is quoted in the statement as saying that the organization is committed to supporting the TCI Community College in its mission to foster a skilled and capable construction workforce in the region.

“As TCICC progresses towards its vision of becoming the institution of first choice in the Turks and Caicos Islands and beyond, this NCCER Institution approval serves as a vital stepping stone, offering students a pathway to excellence in their career path within the construction industry,” the statement reads.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

Hall hosts book signing for her Amazon best seller

Tiersa Hall recently hosted a book signing and meet and greet at the Shore Club to celebrate the successful launch of Amazon Best Seller “Culture Impact: Strategies to Create World-changing Workplaces”.

According to Hall, in the postpandemic period, the working world has shifted to the advantage of employees who are now more selective about their working environments so organisations must have a keen insight.

Culture Impact is a compilation of 12 chapters with different focuses all related to culture with Tiersa’s contribution highlighting impactful leadership which focuses on the critical role of leaders in driving the culture.

She defines impactful leadership by splitting the word into three important aspects:

IM- Which is related to a clear identity of self and focuses on internal and external awareness as a leader

PACT- related to the commitment leaders must make to be able to effectively influence their teams and create buy-in

FUL- a sense of fulfilment and an increased sense of belonging which combined creates a healthy and productive work culture.

During the interview portion of the event, Tiersa was asked what motivated her shift to be a fulltime HR & Culture Consultant, a Master Trainer and now a bestselling author.

Tiersa talked about her twin girls Brooklyn and Lyric and about being a mom first which inspired her to make the right decisions for them which took her away from her role at the time and created an opportunity to do what she was always passionate about.

“I decided to seize the opportunity to chase my purpose, bet on me and believe in myself.”

Tiersa was also asked what drives her passion and energy in training and consulting. She highlighted

that in her 16+ years in HR and hospitality, she was obsessed with studying people and was intentional about meeting people where they are which led to impactful relationships. She explained, “Seeing when the lightbulb turns on, where people learn something new, discover something about themselves and are able to make profound changes in their lives for the better, it gives me goosebumps and I now chase those goosebumps every chance that I get!”

The interview also posed the question of where Turks and Caicos currently sits as it relates to healthy work culture. Tiersa emphasised that “The world on a whole is coming around to truly understand what culture is and that people have shifted the way they think, what they value and what they want the working world to look like”.

She also shed light that years ago, only a select few organisations had focused on employee engagement and social relationship

building, however, in recent times, organisations are using culture and branding as a strategy for employee attraction and retention. On the other hand, she cautioned that only the organisations that have a true interest in building relationships with their teams will stand the test of time as employees will eventually go to where they are genuinely valued.

Deputy Premier Hon Erwin Jay Saunders was in attendance and commended Mrs Hall on the release of an outstanding project, and on her level of intelligence and ability to influence the success of the community by creating and allowing opportunities for others.

VP of Sales and Marketing

Karen Whitt, who knew Tiersa from the beginning of her career to now, also shared the journey and blossoming of their working relationship. “She was and is one of the most dedicated hardworking individuals I have ever met in my life”.

Karen also highlighted that Tiersa is a great example of how to overcome adversity and keep an eye on the vision and not let anything stop her.

Regards and congratulations were also extended from CEO Stan Harling who was off-island and unable to attend.

The overarching theme that circulated the room was “paying it forward”, as many, friends, family, colleagues and mentees took to the mic and spoke about how Tiersa impacted their lives through her interest, encouragement and guidance and how they have and are now paying it forward in their careers.

It was a one-of-a-kind book signing event as it turned into a rollercoaster of emotions with passionate speeches, singing, happy tears and many laughs.

Culture Impact is available for purchase at Pentecost Bookstore on Leeward Highway or online at www.tiersahall.com

Lormeka Williams appointed Deputy PS of Premier’s Office

Chevening Scholar and former head of the DECR, Lormeka Williams is now the Deputy Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Premier and Public Policy.

Williams, whose appointment took effect on Monday, August 7, said she is humbled and thankful for the opportunity to serve TCI.

“I want to thank my husband, family, and friends for their unwavering support throughout my career. I also want to thank the Governor and Deputy Governor for their faith in my ability. I promise to contribute as best as I can to enhance our country's public services.”

She said her career, achievements and success are nothing short of a prayer and a seed of faith, recalling: “When I returned home as a teacher in 2007, all I wanted to do was teach, but as I taught, I realized how much more I could do to help protect and preserve our ‘Beautiful by Nature’ Turks and Caicos Islands.

“I took a leap of faith, and after a few positions, a private sector

opportunity, and a Chevening Scholarship, I now sit at the executive level of public service.”

She added: “I'm just a little girl from Five Cays by way of Bottle Creek, North Caicos, who had a dream, and now, my goal, fueled by faith, is alive and well. I encourage all to do the same for themselves and know that nothing is impossible once God is at the helm."

Williams shares a love and passion for helping those most vulnerable in the communities, a statement from the Deputy Governor’s Office reads.

This love and passion led to a brief departure from public service in 2012 to take on a leadership role with the Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross as its Director. She assisted in the implementation of the Disaster Risk Reduction Programme, was influential in the formation of the youth arm, and led various groups of young persons on both local and regional youth camps and skill-building excursions to introduce young Turks and Caicos Islanders to new

Mirella Profumo-Wright

2 February, 1929 to 30 July, 2023

My mother’s spirit left her body early on Sunday July 30. She had complained for some time of feeling so tired - her heart was weak - she suffered no pain.

Born in Genova on 2nd February, 1929, Mirella had an extraordinary life: much of it as an expatriate. As a young girl, during the war, she was sent to live with her beloved Aunt, Hilda, and her cousins in Occhiobello. This was a happy time for her during which she loved to pretend she was British and convince shopkeepers of her ability to converse in English!

She met my father at the end of the war in my grandmother Olga’s photographic shop in Milan. A dashing Captain in the British Army and a lovely Italian young woman… they corresponded for 3 years then married and went to England. She was just 19 when she began her expatriate life. Three years later I was born.

cultures and build core leadership values.

Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams extended congratulatory remarks: "Mrs Williams, a former Chevening Scholar with over 15 years of dedicated service to the Turks and Caicos Islands Government in the area of the environment, has proven herself to be a dedicated, consummate professional who I am confident will be an asset to the Office of the Premier and Public Policy and will do exceptionally well in this new executive role.”

She said Williams' appointment, like the recent senior-level appointments, are continued proof of the diverse talent within the TCI Government.

Her functions will include assisting the Premier with critical initiatives, including the ongoing work of the National Delivery Unit, developing key strategies across government, and establishing a fully functional communications framework.

“We have complete faith in the

ability of Mrs Williams, and my office stands ready to assist her in any way needed for her success,” the Deputy Governor stated.

Williams holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Biology and General Studies from the College of the Bahamas (now University of the Bahamas) and began her career with the TCI Government in 2007 as a science teacher at Clement Howell High School.

She then used this avenue to display and pass on her passion for the wildlife and natural environment in the TCI. While using a variety of hands-on

learning methods, her passion inspired students in the field of environmental studies, leading to the development of a school-based Environmental Club and a special project with the Turks and Caicos Islands National Trust to create a plant nursery at the school.

In 2010, Williams joined the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) as National Environmental Centre Curator.

In this role, she was instrumental in revitalizing the Junior Park Warden Programme and new activities to help participating

My parents decided to try living in Italy for a while and then sadly the marriage broke down. We returned to England, my father got custody as he had a stable job and my grandmother to care for me (it was the 1950s).

My mother stayed in England to be near me, working in London. I remember marvellous trips in the school holidays to stay with her. She had some impressive jobs: assistant to the export manager of Elizabeth Arden and then assistant to the Editor of The Times newspaper.

Within a few years she married again and in 1969 went with her husband to work in Abu Dhabi in the U.A.E. Initially she worked with early computers where they were fed data on punch cards, later she worked with the CEO of the Central Bank of Abu Dhabi. Her command of Arabic made her the natural choice to take newly designed bank notes to show the Ruler’s wife. She used to tell such wonderful tales of life in

those times, which basically led to me going to live and work and start a successful business in Bahrain. She stayed on in Abu Dhabi after her second marriage ended, not an easy existence for a single woman in the ‘70’s.

She returned to Italy in 1983 choosing Rovigo to be near her dear cousins, Wilma, Vanna and Sergio, a quiet Italian town where my daughter was born. Having gained the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language diploma, she began a new career as both a teacher of English (mainly to

the doctors at the hospital) and a simultaneous interpreter (the rigours of which usually attract only younger people).

Mirella was also an accomplished artist. As a child I used to watch her sketch, practising various techniques. And she always painted vignettes when we travelled together. I have a number of her travel diaries, illustrated with water colours and have taken over using her water colour travel box. She took courses (even once living in the USA for 6 months) to perfect her techniques and became

a renowned artist for decorative art on wood. She successfully sold much of her work and also took time to teach others. Her precious travel diaries remind me of the wonderful holidays we had together: Southwold as a child, Lerici when I was 15, the Lebanon when I was 19, various trips to France, then The Yucatàn, Egypt, various trips in Italy including Stresa and Tuscany and the last, our river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam.

Mirella made many lengthy visits to the Turks and Caicos Islands over the years, embedding herself within the community, attending St. Monica’s and volunteering with Friends of the Arts. Once when called “Patricia’s mother” for the umpteenth time, she threatened to have a T-shirt printed stating: “I’m Mirella and Patricia is my daughter!”

My mother’s strengths were her intellect, artistic ability, her resilience, her determination, her quick wit, cheekiness and commitment to friendships. She fought for what was right. Her strength of character and devotion to me and my daughter, Merinda, throughout her life were unparalleled. We are not the only ones who will miss her.

Mitigation of shanty towns will pave the way for modern communities – PPID Minister says

The government will be in a better position to modernise communities in the TCI, once informal settlements or (shanty towns) are mitigated, according to the Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development

Hon Jamell Robinson.

The proliferation of informal settlements in the Turks and Caicos Islands has severely hindered proper infrastructure development over the years.

With the introduction of the territory’s first Informal Settlement Unit (ISU), set up to mitigate this longstanding issue, the government is optimistic about the development prospects of these communities.

Speaking in a video featured at the recent launch of the Informal Settlement Unit’s Office in Providenciales, Hon Robinson stressing the importance of the ISU said: “We will be in a better position to plan where schools should go, plan where the infrastructure should go, plan where hospitals should go and all the modernday infrastructure to have proper communities.”

The infrastructure development in informal communities has progressed in an ad-hoc manner without adhering to planning laws, which has resulted in many substandard structures being erected in these areas.

He continued: “But if you're doing patchwork because it's irregular and not getting proper planning involved, it'd be hard for us to get a hold of which direction we're gonna go from an infrastructure standpoint, in our development of our country”, he added.

underscored that the issue of informal settlements has gone unchecked for too long.

She said: “For many years, we have known that this issue of informal settlements is a growing issue that its destabilising to our communities and we’ve not done anything about it and, so now, for the first time, the government has placed a tremendous amount of resource behind it and commitment behind it and this is a bipartisan issue that has been addressed across the board.

the extent of the issue, said: ‘The emergence of informal settlements in the Turks and Caicos Islands has become a growing concern during the last few decades, with over 700 acres of crown and private land now being occupied by these types of structures.”

The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) is a Turks and Caicos Islands government agency led by Justice Carlos Simons.

regularising the long-established informal settlements to bring them into line with planning and other applicable laws.

Commenting on the launch of the ISU’s website and social media pages, he said: “Our organisation has identified a critical need for a central information portal to provide relevant information through an effective dissemination channel such as a website and social media pages for people to access.”

According to Justice Simons, this site will be a one-stop shop with a strong online presence, thus providing a valuable tool to connect with residents while keeping all informed of the organisation’s progress.

Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite- Knowles who echoed similar sentiments, youth better appreciate the Turks and Caicos Islands' natural environment.

“ It's not a political issue at all, it's not just a government issue, it’s an issue of society that concerns all of us and so to have a department that is focused in this area is really important to the sustainable development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams, who also commented on

Lormeka Williams appointed ...

CONTINUED 

She also worked closely with international organizations such as Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Darwin Project and the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Conservation Forum on various conservation projects and initiatives.

In 2016, Williams was awarded the prestigious Chevening Scholarship and attained a Master of Science Degree in Conservation Biology at the University of Kent in

Canterbury, United Kingdom.

Upon completion and return in 2017, she re-joined the government as the Deputy Director of DECR and was later promoted to Director in 2019.

Throughout her tenure with DECR, she spearheaded numerous efforts, including developing and implementing several successful internationally funded projects (including the Blue Belt Programme), revising the National Parks Ordinance, and implementing the new Beach and Coastal Vending Ordinance.

Justice Simons in explaining the scope and responsibilities of the Unit said: “The principal aim of the ISU is to build safer, more sustainable communities in the Turks and Caicos Islands and to improve the standard of living and quality of life of the affected occupants by undertaking this work.

“We are charged with the work of stopping this illegal practice and

The new platforms will provide an experience that aligns with modern practices, one that features user-friendly applications, effective navigation, and easily recognisable links to help individuals access information and provide feedback.

The sites will further provide relevant, timely posts with updates and real-time announcements related to the mission of the ISU.

It will also be a place for residents to go for unbiased, factbased information and guidance for all issues relating to informal settlements, such as challenges the organisation is experiencing or accessing legislation that speaks to informal settlements, Crown land policies, or private landowners' rights.

Residents are encouraged to visit and follow the new ISU website at www.isutci.com on the web and the social media pages on Facebook: Turks and Caicos Informal Settlement Unit and Instagram at @isutci.

Jamaica prepared to send 200 security personnel to Haiti – Holness

PRIME Minister Andrew Holness has revealed that Jamaica is prepared to send 200 security personnel to Haiti as part of a multinational force aimed at providing support to the security and humanitarian crisis in the country.

This is the first time Holness is disclosing such a figure.

A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister today says Holness made the disclosure during a telephone conversation with the President of the Republic of Kenya, William Ruto, who indicated that his country is committed to sending 1,000 security personnel and to lead the multinational security force.

Holness also noted that The Bahamas has committed to providing 150 personnel, bringing the CARICOM commitment at this time to 350.

Holness expressed hope that more countries, whether in the region of the Americas, the continent of Africa, or elsewhere, would also step forward with personnel commitments, and that the requisite UN Security Council Resolution will be adopted in order to provide the appropriate jurisdictional framework for the security force.

Regarding CARICOM, Holness said that the ‘Good Offices’ efforts currently led by

three former prime ministers from CARICOM member states must continue to be supported towards facilitating a political consensus in Haiti.

He also expressed gratitude to members of the international community, in particular the United States, Canada, and the UN Secretary-General, who have

Bahamas: American woman charged with plot to kill husband

AN American woman accused of plotting with two Bahamian men to kill her husband posted $100,000 cash bail on Wednesday.

Lindsay Shiver, 36, of Thomasville, Georgia, made a bail variation application before Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson.

also present in court.

The accused allegedly plotted to kill Mrs Shiver’s husband, Robert, in Abaco on July 16.

Authorities reportedly discovered the plot after seizing a phone while investigating another crime in Guana Cay.

been advocating strongly for more partners to support peace and stability in Haiti.

He also expressed hope that the proposed multinational security force would allow the ordinary and most vulnerable Haitian people to once again go about their daily lives, and access humanitarian aid as needed. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Initially, she was required to sign-in at an Abaco police station, but she varied her bail terms to sign in at a New Providence station.

Mrs Shiver and two Bahamian men were charged on June 28 with conspiracy to commit murder.

A restraining order for the estranged couple was also issued.

A representative of the US Embassy, Lance Peterson, the chief of American Citizen Services, was

Mr Shiver reportedly filed for divorce from his wife after allegedly uncovering the alleged affair between her and one of her co-conspirators.

When Justice Grant-Thompson granted Mrs Shiver cash bail at $100,000 last Tuesday, the defendant was unable to post bail and was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

Bahamas: Two accusations of rape for Abaco MP

NORTH Abaco MP Kirk Cornish was charged yesterday with two counts of rape, as well as assault and threats of death - but there was little fuss or fanfare at the Magistrate’s Court.

The complex hummed with its typical activity, void of the energy or displays of support that usually accompany high-profile arraignments of political figures.

Wearing a grey suit, Cornish arrived at the Magistrate’s Court in a black SUV around 10am and was discreetly escorted inside the courtroom of Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley.

He was not required to enter a plea.

He later made an emergency bail application. Supreme Court Justice Gregory Hilton granted him bail at $9k with one or two sureties. He must sign in at a police station in Abaco once a week.

His parents sat alongside press

members in an otherwise empty gallery as charges were read against him.

North Eleuthera MP Sylvanus Petty was the lone politician at the court complex.

Outside, a Progressive Liberal Party supporter waved a PLP flag and told the press he admired Cornish’s performance as North Abaco’s representative. A Water and Sewerage Union president also showed up to express his support.

Wednesday’s arraignment marked a jarring development for a young Progressive Liberal Party politician who, just days earlier, continued to carry out government functions. Cornish visited Jamaica last week, meeting the minister of agriculture, fisheries and mining to discuss whether North Abaco would be a suitable port to ship products to the US, according to his Facebook page.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister

Philip “Brave” Davis announced that he requested and accepted Cornish’s resignation as parliamentary secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister.

Prosecutors allege that Cornish raped a woman at knifepoint on March 25 in New Providence. They also allege that he sexually assaulted the same woman at her Cooper’s Town, Abaco, residence on April 4.

Cornish is alleged to have threatened to kill the woman and her family.

He also allegedly assaulted her in Cooper’s Town on January 20.

Cornish appeared calm as the charges were read.

Although his matter will be transferred to the Supreme Court via a voluntary bill of indictment to be served on October 24, his lawyer said they want to deal with the trial as quickly as possible.

Anthony McKinney and Owen Wells are his lawyers. (Tribune242)

Regional News

Bahamas: Tar washing up on beaches after oil spill

GRAND Bahama residents and visitors have encountered a black oily substance at Fortune Beach in the Lucaya area. This follows an oil spill believed to be from last week’s oil spill at the jetty off Pinder’s Point - but there are suggestions that there may have been a separate spill in the area.

Miles of seaweed caked with clumps of sticky tar have washed ashore on the beach at Banana Bay, Fortune Cay, Viva Club Fortuna Beach Resort, and Spanish Main, according to witness reports.

Fortune Cay resident Ona Joyce was walking the beach on Tuesday when she noticed the black sticky stains and residue on her feet and bathing suit.

“After I walked home from the beach I went to wash my feet and noticed it had two inches of what I thought was tar,” she said.

Mrs Joyce and her husband are part-time residents and second homeowners at the gated community for almost 18 years.

“We never seen anything like this,” she said when The Tribune visited the site on Wednesday.

Other residents at the beachfront community had also come in contact with thick clumps of tar and seaweed on the beach and shared photos of their blackened feet in a group chat.

A neighbour’s dog had also reportedly burned its paw on the oil and had to be taken to a local veterinarian for treatment.

After searching Google for oil

Residents of Fortune Cay, Grand Bahama said they found tar along the beach on Tuesday, which may be the result of a recent oil spill at Buckeye’s facility at Pinder’s

spills in Freeport, Ms Joyce saw The Tribune’s article on the oil spill at Buckeye Bahamas Hub marine terminal.

“I saw there was one (spill) last week so I figured that must have been the source of it,” she claimed.

Mrs Joyce said residents would like to see the beach cleaned properly and the oily seaweed removed and monitored.

Last week, government officials leading the investigation into the oil spill advised residents who see any oil substances on the beach to contact the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection and Buckeye.

Ms Joyce contacted the company by email but has not heard back from anyone. She

also tried contacting Buckeye by telephone, but received a voice message saying “cannot connect”. However, Tribune Business today reports that there are suggestions there may have been a second, separate spill in the area.

Further west, Italian visitors Malco and Andrea Gafafel reported seeing oil on the beach for the past three days. The couple said they are guests at the Viva Club Fortuna Beach Resort.

“There is a lot of black pieces of petroleum for two to three days. Lots here in Banana Bay, and at the hotel Viva Club Fortuna there is a lot of black petrol everywhere. It is bad stuff because the people come here for sand and the beach and sea. And it is impossible

walking the beach because of the petrol in the sand,” the couple said.

Resort manager Kelvin Tejava said they have not received any report of oil on the beach at the resort, but will look into it and make some checks.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Buckeye Partners (“Buckeye”) said the company is aware of petroleum-based residue that has been found on certain area beaches and is addressing the situation.

“Buckeye Partners continues its robust containment, recovery, and remediation initiatives aimed at protecting the environment following the release of fuel oil at its Buckeye Bahamas Hub marine

terminal on Wednesday, August 2, 2023.

“These initiatives are guided by Buckeye’s ongoing environmental monitoring – including systematic aerial surveys and on-the-ground beach patrols.

“While the source of the material is currently unknown, we are actively investigating and have initiated clean-up efforts on local beaches, as well as continuous monitoring across the area in coordination with other stakeholders.

“We remain in regular contact with the government of The Bahamas, as well as other local officials, and will continue to provide regular updates. Buckeye is grateful for the privilege to operate in The Bahamas, and our top priority is community, workforce, and environmental safety.”

Last week, Buckeye informed the government that an estimated two to three barrels of fuel oil spilled in waters at its marine terminal during a flushing operation to facilitate the transfer of product between two tanks. An oil sheen was observed on the water’s surface and booms were promptly deployed and efforts were initiated to recover the oil.

A team at the Port Department, the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, and the Department of Environmental Health Services are investigating the spill. (Tribune242)

Haiti: Kidnapped American nurse and toddler released

The US-based Christian aid group, El Roi Haiti, Wednesday confirmed that an American nurse and her child kidnapped in Haiti on July 27, have been released.

“It is with a heart of gratitude and immense joy that we at El Roi Haiti confirm the safe release of our staff member and friend, Alix Dorsainvil and her child,” El Roi leaders said in a blog posted on their website.

“We are so thankful for everyone who joined us in prayer and supported us during this crisis,” they added in a statement.

The statement gave no indication as to whether or not a ransom had been paid for releasing the pair.

Dorsainvil was living in Haiti with her husband Sandro, who is the director of El Roi Haiti. She was working as a nurse at the organisation’s school when she and her daughter were kidnapped

on July 27.

El Roi Haiti said it would “continue to release information as appropriate on our website” regarding the release of the nurse.

The US State Department welcomed the reports of the release of the couple but declined to provide any information on the circumstances or their condition.

“As you can imagine, these individuals have been through a very difficult ordeal, both physically and mentally. We express our deepest appreciation to our Haitian, and US interagency partners for their assistance in facilitating their safe release,” a State Department spokesman said in a statement.

Earlier this week, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said persistent violence in Haiti remains a significant concern for the safety and welfare of its most vulnerable citizens,

especially women and children, citing reports of an “alarming spike” in kidnapping and other crimes.

According to UNICEF, nearly 300 confirmed cases were reported in the first six months of 2023, almost matching the total number documented over 2022 and close to three times the number in 2021.

“The stories we are hearing from UNICEF staff and partners on the ground are shocking and unacceptable,” said Gary Conille, UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Last month, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to the UN Security Council and major potential contribution countries to act fast to create the conditions for the deployment of a multinational force to Haiti. (Caribbean Loopnews)

Nicola Sturgeon rules out reconciliation with Alex Salmond

Nicola Sturgeon has ruled out any potential reconciliation with her predecessor Alex Salmond.

The former first minister told a fringe event with broadcaster Iain Dale that a reunion between the SNP figureheads was not something she could foresee or wanted.

On Wednesday, Alex Salmond refused to rule out a reconciliation stating “never say never”.

Ms Sturgeon served as deputy first minister to Mr Salmond for seven years.

Responding to a question asked by an audience member, Ms Sturgeon said: “I was very close to Alex for a long, long time. We achieved great things together and I’ll always be proud of that.

“I’m not trying to re-write history here but over recent years he has revealed himself to be somebody that I don’t want to have in my life, I don’t particularly want to have a relationship with.

“We don’t have long on this planet, we’ve got a limited amount of time to spend with people. I want to spend the time I have with

people who make me happy and who I like.”

Ms Sturgeon added that her opinion of Mr Salmond no longer came from a place of anger, but from a place of indifference.

The pair had a close working relationship for many years, but

they fell out when allegations of sexual harassment were made against Mr Salmond by two female civil servants in 2018.

The complaints were made after Ms Sturgeon asked for new government policies on sexual harassment to be put in place. Mr

Salmond believed the policy was aimed at him.

He was acquitted of all charges following a court case.

During the interview, Ms Sturgeon said she had “no idea of what was about to unfold” when she announced she was stepping down as SNP leader and first minister, and that she “wouldn’t have been able to function in that period” had she been aware of the next steps in the police investigation.

Ms Sturgeon resigned in February and her husband Peter Murrell stood down as chief executive of the SNP a month later, after he took responsibility for misleading the media about party membership numbers.

Their home in Glasgow was searched just a few weeks later and Mr Murrell was arrested in connection with a long-running investigation into SNP finances. A luxury motorhome which sells for about £110,000 was then seized by police from outside the home of Mr Murrell’s mother in Dunfermline.

The SNP treasurer Colin Beattie

was also later arrested.

FAITH IN POLICE

The arrest of Ms Sturgeon in June led to calls from political opponents for her to be suspended from the party.

None of the three has been charged and Ms Sturgeon has repeatedly said she is innocent. In the Fringe interview the former first minister said she recognised that the “police have a job to do” adding that she has “faith” in them to do so.

She said the months since her arrest had been “traumatic” but had helped her find a new “depth of resilience”.

Ms Sturgeon also revealed that one of turning points leading to her decision to resign came when she heard the news New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden was stepping down.

She said while it was not a main factor, when watching the announcement on television she had an “overwhelming emotion” of envy and remembers thinking “I wish that was me”. (BBC)

Kim Jong Un fires top general, orders North Korean military to ‘gird for war’

North Korean leader Kim Jong

Un has fired his top general amid a shakeup of the country’s military leadership and wants his army to “gird for a war,” state media reported Thursday.

Gen. Pak Su Il was dismissed as chief of the General Staff and Vice Marshal Ri Yong Gil was appointed in his place, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Other “leading commanding officers” were dismissed, transferred or appointed during a meeting of the Central Military Commission on Wednesday, KCNA reported, without going into details.

North Korea regularly revamps its military leadership. Some military leaders later reemerge in different positions, while others disappear from public view.

And the career of the new top general Ri – who assumed the No. 2 job in the North Korean military hierarchy as recently as December 31 – reflected that, analysts said.

“Ri Yong Gil is a longstanding member of North Korea’s military elite, who before making it to the top, experienced ups and downs during his career. Seven years ago, he was even rumored to have been executed after a personnel reshuffle,” said Leif-Eric Easley,

professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul.

Cheong Seong-chang, a senior analyst at the Sejong Institute private think tank near Seoul, said there may be a range of reasons behind Kim’s military reshuffle and it was not necessarily punitive.

“Since Kim Jong Un has frequently promoted, demoted, and dismissed executives according to their ability to perform duties, dismissal of executives may be holding them accountable, but it is inappropriate to consider them as punishment,” Cheong said. Easley said the North Korean leader may simply be trying to

ensure that no one below him becomes too powerful.

“Kim Jong Un frequently rotates leadership posts below him to prevent the emergence in North Korea of anyone like [Wagner Group founder] Yevgeny Prigozhin, who challenged Russian President Vladimir Putin’s authority after amassing personal

control of financial assets and loyalty among armed forces,” Easley said.

‘GRAVE MILITARY SITUATION’

The shake-up of the military leadership was mentioned only near the end of the KCNA report, which focused more on what it said was the “important issue of making the army more thoroughly gird for a war given the grave political and military situation prevailing in the Korean Peninsula.”

South Korea and its chief ally, the United States, were not mentioned by name in the report. However, it appeared to refer to them obliquely, saying the meeting “analyzed the military moves of the chief culprits of deteriorated situation” on the peninsula.

“Making full war preparations” was the top agenda item for the meeting, the KCNA report said.

“The present situation, in which the hostile forces are getting ever more undisguised in their reckless military confrontation with the DPRK, [Democratic People’s Republic of Korea] requires the latter’s army to have more positive, proactive and overwhelming will and thoroughgoing and perfect military readiness for a war,” it said. (CNN)

Dozens dead in Hawaii’s wildfire

THE search of the wildfire wreckage on the Hawaiian island of Maui on Thursday revealed a wasteland of burned out homes and obliterated communities as firefighters battled the stubborn blaze that has already claimed 36 lives, making it the deadliest in the U.S. in recent years.

Fuelled by a dry summer and strong winds from a passing hurricane, the fire started Tuesday and took the island by surprise, racing through parched growth and neighbourhoods in the historic town of Lahaina, a tourist destination that dates to the 1700s and is the biggest community on the island’s west side.

Maui County said late Wednesday that at least 36 people had died, making it the deadliest US wildfire since the 2018 Camp Fire in California, which killed at least 85 people and laid waste to the town of Paradise. The Hawaii toll could rise, though, as rescuers reach parts of the island that had been unreachable due to ongoing fires or obstructions. Officials said earlier Wednesday that 271 structures had been damaged or destroyed and that dozens of people had been injured.

“We are still in life preservation mode. Search and rescue is still a primary concern,” Adam Weintraub, a spokesperson for Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, said Thursday.

He said search and rescue teams

Officials

still won’t be able to access certain areas until the fire lines are secure and they’re sure that they’re going to be able to get to those areas safely.

“What we have here is a natural disaster,” Weintraub said. “There may have been questions that need to be examined about whether it was handled in the right way. But we still got people in danger. We still have people who don’t have homes. We still have people who can’t find their loved ones.”

The flames left some people with mere minutes to act and led some to flee into the ocean. A Lahaina man, Bosco Bae, posted video on Facebook from Tuesday night that showed fire burning

structures had been damaged or destroyed

nearly every building on a street as sirens blared and spark-filled winds roared by. Bae, who said he was one of the last people to leave the town, was evacuated to the island’s main airport and was waiting to be allowed to return home.

Lahaina residents Kamuela Kawaakoa and Iiulia Yasso described their harrowing escape under smoke-filled skies Tuesday afternoon. The couple and their 6-year-old son got back to their apartment after a quick dash to the supermarket for water, and only had time to grab a change of clothes and run as the bushes around them caught fire.

“We barely made it out,”

Kawaakoa, 34, said at an evacuation shelter on Wednesday, still unsure if anything was left of their apartment.

As the family fled, a senior center across the road erupted in flames. They called 911, but didn’t know if the people got out. As they drove away, downed utility poles and others fleeing in cars slowed their progress. “It was so hard to sit there and just watch my town burn to ashes and not be able to do anything,” Kawaakoa said.

As the fires raged, tourists were advised to stay away, and about 11,000 flew out of Maui on Wednesday, with at least another 1,500 expected to leave Thursday,

according to Ed Sniffen, state transportation director. Officials prepared the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu to take in the thousands who have been displaced.

n coastal Kihei, southeast of Lahaina, wide swaths of ground glowed red with embers Wednesday night as flames continued to chew through trees and buildings. Gusty winds blew sparks over a black and orange patchwork of charred earth and still-crackling hot spots.

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen Jr. said the island had “been tested like never before in our lifetime.”

“We are grieving with each other during this inconsolable time,” he said in a recorded statement. “In the days ahead, we will be stronger as a ‘kaiaulu,’ or community, as we rebuild with resilience and aloha.”

The fires were fanned by strong winds from Hurricane Dora passing far to the south. It’s the latest in a series of disasters caused by extreme weather around the globe this summer. Experts say climate change is increasing the likelihood of such events.

Wildfires aren’t unusual in Hawaii, but the weather of the past few weeks created the fuel for a devastating blaze and, once ignited, the high winds created the disaster, said Thomas Smith an associate professor in Environmental Geography at the London School of Economics and Political Science. (AP)

Italian banks hit with surprise windfall tax

Italy has passed a one-off 40% tax on the profits banks earn from higher interest rates, in a shock move that has seen shares plummet.

A hike in official interest rates has resulted in record profits for Italian banks, prompting the government’s move.

Proceeds will be used to help mortgage holders and to cut taxes, the government says.

But Italian banks have said the tax on their profits will be “substantially negative” for the sector.

The surprise move was agreed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s ministers at a cabinet meeting late on Monday. They vowed to invest the funds raised into helping households and businesses struggling with the cost of borrowing.

“One has only to look at banks’ first-half profits to realise that we are not talking about a few

millions, but of billions,” Deputy

The tax will apply to the net interest income that comes from the gap between the banks’ lending and deposit rates.

Around €2bn (£1.7bn) is reportedly expected to be generated from the levy, which will be used to fund support for families hit by higher interest rates.

Italy’s parliament now has 60 days to pass the tax decree into law.

Foreign Minister Antonio

Tajani told the Corriere della Sera newspaper the tax was not against the banks, “but a measure to protect families” and those struggling to pay mortgages.

But some European banks have said the surprise move is bad news for the sector.

Equity Research Analyst at Citi, Azzurra Guelfi, said: “We see this tax as substantially negative for banks given both the impact on capital and profit as well as for cost of equity of bank shares.”

Shares in the country’s two largest banks, Intesa Sanpaolo and UniCredit, dropped by 8% and 6.5% respectively on Tuesday morning following the announcement.

Shares in Banco BPM, the country’s third-largest bank dropped 8.2%, while the stateowned Monte dei Paschi di Siena dipped by 7.4%. Other banks including BPER Banca, Banca

Generali and Mediobanca were also down.

The fallout has had ramifications for other banks, with shares dropping at Germany’s Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank, and France’s BNP Paribas and Credit Agricole.

“The tax that Italy has levied on the excess profits that banks are perceived to be making has come as a surprise and is likely raising concerns that other countries could follow Italy’s example,” said Stuart Cole, chief macro economist at Equiti Capital.

Other European countries including Hungary and Spain have imposed similar windfall taxes on banks.

In May, Lithuanian lawmakers backed a temporary windfall tax on banks to fund defence spending, while Estonia is planning to raise the tax level on banks to 18%, up from 14% this year.

Judge orders Southwest lawyers to attend ‘religious liberty training’

Candidate in Ecuador’s presidential election Fernando Villavicencio shot dead

A candidate in Ecuador’s forthcoming presidential election who campaigned against corruption and gangs has been shot dead at a campaign rally.

Fernando Villavicencio, a member of the country’s national assembly, was attacked as he left the event in the capital, Quito, on Wednesday.

He is one of the few candidates to allege links between organised crime and government officials in Ecuador.

President Guillermo Lasso said organised crime was behind the killing.

Ecuador has historically been a relatively safe and stable country in Latin America, but crime has shot

up in recent years, fuelled by the growing presence of Colombian and Mexican drug cartels, which have infiltrated local criminal gangs.

Fernando Villavicencio had received threats from a gang calling itself Los Choneros last month and had been given a security detail.

Following his murder, a video appeared on social media in which heavily armed men wearing balaclavas claimed responsibility for the murder. The men claim to belong to Los Lobos (The Wolves), who are rivals of Los Choneros.

But hours later, another video appeared online in which another

group of men - this time not wearing masks - claimed they were Los Lobos and denied they had played a role in the assassination, claiming the other video was an attempt by their rivals to set them up for the murder.

Both gangs wield considerable power and the violence they have sowed has been one of the key concerns of Ecuadoreans ahead of presidential elections on 20 August.

Mr Villavicencio, who was married and had five children, was one of eight candidates in the first round of the election - although he was not the frontrunner and was polling around the middle of the pack. (BBC)

Three lawyers for Southwest Airlines must attend a “religious liberty training” course after a judge ruled the company disregarded his order in a religious discrimination case.

The judge sided with a flight attendant in May who said she had been fired for expressing her opposition to abortion.

On Tuesday, the judge said the airline “didn’t come close” to complying with the ruling at the time.

Southwest said it would appeal the latest order.

The company’s lawyers have been told to attend a course run by the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a conservative Christian legal-advocacy group.

The Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks hate groups, has said the ADF is an “antiLGBTQ hate group”.

The airline appealed the original judgement when the flight

attendant, Charlene Carter, was awarded $5.1m (£3.99m) and also got her job back.

She claimed she was fired after she called the trade union president “despicable” for attending the 2017 Women’s March in Washington DC. Southwest and the union said Ms Carter wrote offensive posts on Facebook and harassed the union president in direct messages.

A jury in Dallas, Texas ultimately found that the airline had violated her right to religious free speech.

Southwest was then ordered to tell employees that it “may not discriminate against... flight attendants for their religious practices and beliefs, includingbut not limited to - those expressed on social media and those concerning abortion”.

In his highly critical 29-page order, Judge Starr said the airline “didn’t come close to complying” with this.

Forty-one migrants die in shipwreck off Lampedusa

Forty-one migrants have died in a shipwreck off the Italian island of Lampedusa, survivors told local media.

A group of four people who survived the disaster told rescuers that they were on a boat that had set off from Sfax in Tunisia and sank on its way to Italy.

The four survivors, originally from the Ivory Coast and Guinea, reached Lampedusa on Wednesday.

More than 1,800 people have lost their lives so far this year in the crossing from North Africa to Europe.

Local public prosecutor Salvatore Vella said he had opened an investigation into the tragedy.

The survivors - a 13-year-old boy, two men and a woman - told rescuers that they were on a boat carrying 45 people, including three children.

They said the boat, which was about 7m (20ft) long, left Sfax on Thursday last week, but sank within hours after being hit by a big wave. Only 15 people are understood to have been wearing lifejackets, but this apparently

failed to save their lives.

The Italian Red Cross and German charity Sea-Watch said the four managed to survive the shipwreck by floating on inner tubes and lifejackets until they found another empty boat at sea,

in which they spent several days drifting before being rescued.

The four survivors arrived in Lampedusa suffering from exhaustion and shock, but the doctor who treated them, Adrian Chiaramonte, said they had only minor injuries.

“What really struck us was the story of the tragedy,” he said.

“They said they had encountered a first ship, which had apparently ignored them.

“An hour later they were spotted by a helicopter, and an hour after that sighting, they were picked up by an oil tanker.”

The Italian coast guard reported two shipwrecks in the area on Sunday, but it is not clear whether this vessel is one of those.

The United Nations migration agency, the International Organization for Migration (IOM),

said the migrants would have had little chance of survival.

“Sub-Saharan migrants [leaving from Tunisia] are forced to use these low-cost iron boats which break after 20 or 30 hours of navigation. With this kind of sea, these boats capsize easily,” IOM spokesman Flavio Di Giacomo told AFP.

Tunisian authorities say Sfax, a port city about 80 miles (130km) from Lampedusa, is a popular gateway for migrants seeking safety and a better life in Europe.

In recent days, Italian patrol boats and charity groups have rescued another 2,000 people who have arrived on Lampedusa.

Tunisia has seen a wave of racism against black Africans in recent months and attempts to leave the country by boat have increased.

BLUE HILLS CONSTRUCTION/ VAGUY VILMAR

IMMEDIATE OPENING

COOK

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Prepare all food items according to recipe cards and correct handling procedures.

• Maintain highest quality and appearance of all foods sent from kitchen and make sure plates are clean and appetizing.

• Maintain orderly and clean refrigerators and work areas.

• Rotate all foods and correctly fill out production charts.

• Prepares sauces, soups and hot entrees in accordance with menu

• Sets up for meals by ensuring proper amounts are in place for forecasted covers, special functions and any reservations

• Organizes and maintains work areas, coolers and storage areas

• Requisitions food with necessary approvals according to policy

• Takes proper care of ranges, ovens, broilers, fryers, griddles, utensils and other equipment

• Follows proper safety, hygiene and sanitation practices in the designated kitchen areas daily

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Experience with, and comfortable preparing a variety of different cuisines in a fine dining environment

• Understand the importance of consistency

• Knowledge of food preparation techniques and health/safety

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts and stand for long periods at a time

• 2 years’ experience in this role

Starting salary $7.00 per hour not including service charge.

EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Oversee and coordinate all housekeeping operations including planning, execution and communication

• Lead Housekeeping team to ensure success of housekeeping operations by performing work details alongside the frontline staff; participating in recruitment and training; developing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure achievement of department goals; ensuring team members follow established safety regulations

• Act as liaison between Housekeeping and other departments

• Manage, monitor and develop use of facility management software, Opera, & Alice ADP; forward requests to applicable departments; follow-up and ensure completion of projects; run activity and project reports

• Maintain adequate equipment and supply inventory to provide a clean, safe and comfortable environment

• Work closely with The Executive Housekeeper by providing administrative and operational support including but not limited to compiling operational information and recaps; reviewing daily Housekeeping Reports in Opera, Glitch; and updating SOPs

• Act as Manager on duty for special events

• Act has relief Supervisor when necessary

• Perform other related duties, as

• Manage Housekeeping Supervisors, Coordinators and team members

KEY SKILLS AND REQUIREMENT:

• Guest satisfaction and loyalty

• Reliability (Attendance & Timeliness)

• Completion of work assignments

• In depth knowledge of housekeeping services

• A solid understanding of effective cleaning methods, equipment, chemical use, and manual handling techniques

Starting salary $57,000 per annum not including service charge.

Our Hartling Core Values for Success include but are not limited to:

ACCOUNTABILITY: Being responsible for every action by acknowledging and understanding expectations.

LEADERSHIP: Showing initiative and being empowered to motivate, guide, and develop others by using expertise to execute actions while fostering mutual trust and a positive work-life balance.

INTEGRITY: Being honest, dependable, and doing what is right even when no one is watching.

SAFETY: Maintaining an environment where risks to health and safety are minimized for employees and guests.

TEAM: Valuing all team members by helping selflessly towards achieving ultimate efficiency and guest satisfaction.

EFFICIENCY: Accomplishing a task competently with a minimum expenditure of time effort and resources.

RESPECT: Showing consideration for self, guests, and each other while embracing diverse cultures, communities, and points of view.

Our Key Heart Beat Principles include but are not limited to:

WARM INTERACTIONS

We provide Warm Interactions through Acknowledgement, Courteous Engagement, and our standards of Personal Appearances

MAGICAL MOMENTS

We create Magical Moments by Creating the Wow, Building Connections, and through our Service Recovery.

SEAMLESS

PROCESSES

We ensure Seamless processes are created by managing a Sense of Urgency, providing Accurate Information, and superb Telephone Etiquette.

IMPECCABLE FACILITIES

We ensure our Facilities are Impeccable by Cleaning as We Go, Reporting Deficiencies, and adhering to the Mona Lisa Rule, which ensures everything is as it should be.

Application must be honest, reliable and willing to work. Steel work on all jobs for the company.

Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 346-0002 37831

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

EDRISS JOSEPH

Five Cays, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, cooking, washing and ironing clothes, taking care of children, or elderly or sick members of a family, and gardening, driving for the family, and even taking care of household pets.

Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-232-3264/ 649-947-6909 37975

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

FRANDY PROSPER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

CONTACT: 343-9642 38023

ESTEL PLUMBING

The Bight, Providenciales Is seeking to employ a

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 241-0397

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 348-9414

BELONGERS ARE

Cleaning outside the property, pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-0035

Stocking

Assists in keeping a restaurant clean and sanitary, assists in cleaning dishes, and tends to customers' needs.

CONTACT: 241-4881

2 CLEANERS

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, restroom cleaning etc. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 343-8991

DOMESTIC WORKER

Landscaping, cutting and trimming of trees and decorating.

CONTACT: 649-343-1420

TILE LAYER

BABYSITTER

Setting up workstations. Preparing ingredients, chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc. Cooking food in various utensils or grillers.

Hourly

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $8.00 hourly

D’BOY BARBER SHOP

COSMETOLOGIST

Shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. Makeup, dress wigs, perform hair removal, nail and skin care. $8.00 hourly

2 BARBERS

Cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, etc.

$8.00 hourly

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and door frames. Salary: $8.00 hourly

DERRICK AND SONS CONTRACTING

SPRAYER/PAINTER

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces. $9.00 Hourly

LABOURER

Cleaning property, pick up yard waste, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. $9.00 Hourly

DESROULEAUX MASSILLON

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 442-7240

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 231-7791

CONTACT: 649-347-7980 38067

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 247-7591

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 649-333-1199

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

38123

HOUSEKEEPING

Performing a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing.

Ensuring all rooms inspected according to standards.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-342-7954

CONTACT: 342-8847

CONTACT: 649-342-9006

CONTACT: 242-5161

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY

38052

DOMESTIC WORKER

Help to take care of 2 small children and perform all general housekeeping chores which include laundry and ironing.

CONTACT: 431-0565

CONTACT: 946-4684

DOMESTIC WORKER

Fix and maintain mechanical equipment, buildings, and machines.

CONTACT: 342-0681

CONTACT:

DOMESTIC WORKER

Stocking and supplying designated facility areas, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, cleaning ceiling vents, restroom cleaning etc.

WAITRESS

CONTACT: 246-8402

Shop #4, Unit #22 Morris Plaza, Airport Road Is seeking to employ a

COSMETOLOGIST

all

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

CONTACT: 649-342-0139

BELONGERS CAN APPLY!

DOMESTIC

South Dock Road, Providenciales TCI Is seeking to employ a

a safe and clean environment, preparing meals, household chores, gardening and

laundry.Salary:

232-7124

CONTACT: 243-6430

CONTACT:

OFFERED FOR SALE IN THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

A well-established Ceramic Arts Studio is available for sale on the thriving island of Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos Islands.

The Studio is well-connected to local galleries, resorts and retailers, and the current owner, who wishes to semi-retire, will gladly stay on to oversee the transition. She is also interested in maintaining some of her own production in an arrangement attractive to the new owner, and in continuing to teach ceramics classes on a commission basis.

The Studio currently leases 1,500 square feet on two floors, and there is also an owned 40-foot storage container adjacent to the Studio. The current lease runs through November, 2023, and includes the option to renew for a further two years at a rent to be negotiated.

Studio equipment includes three computer-controlled kilns, two throwing wheels, a custom electric slab roller, a pug mill for the recycling of used clay, a clay extruder with assorted dies and a full range of molds and dies to facilitate highvolume production. Inventory comprises raw clay, paints and glazes and a wide selection of plaster molds, as well as glaze-combination samples and a complete selection of general and specialized tools.

Full details of the Company’s assets and operating results from the year 2020 onward are available to prospective purchasers upon the signing of a Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement.

Brokers will be protected.

Offered at $USD 250,000.

Interested parties are invited to reply by e-mail to lorne@mgmtsupport.tc. 38003

Experience Turks and Caicos discusses ways of enhancing fish fry with vendors

The Ministry of Tourism and Experience Turks and Caicos met with Fish Fry Vendors on Friday, August 4th, 2023, to discuss new standards for operations, infrastructure needs, health, and safety requirements.

A press release indicated that the vendors providing valuable feedback on the proposed changes.

Experience Turks and Caicos also outlined in the new Code of Conduct and Fish Fry Vendor Contract.

The weekly, Thursday Fish Fry in Providenciales, was created to provide visitors with the unique opportunity to experience TCI through different types of local food, music, art and craft.

The Fish Fry offers Turks and Caicos Islanders an opportunity to showcase their unique culinary, art and craft to guests from all over the world and the inclusive economic growth benefits of tourism.

Minister of Tourism, Hon Josephine Connolly, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the fish fry vendors for their dedication to the Island Fish Fry. ”I'm delighted to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the fish fry vendors who

The meeting was well-attended and productive, according to information from the government

participated in our recent meetings.

Your dedication to the Island Fish Fry is truly commendable. We're excited about the collaborative efforts that lie ahead, ensuring the continued success and growth of this cherished event. Your passion for showcasing our vibrant culture and delectable cuisine is what makes our Island Fish Fry truly special. Looking forward to a bright future together!”

Manager for Experience Turks and Caicos, expressed “The meeting with our stakeholders for the island fish fry was productive and collaborative. The passion and commitment from everyone involved was evident and it was clear that we all share a common goal…. to enhance the overall experience for both our visitors and community. Together we can and will create a product that will leave a lasting impact on all who participate.”

Two meteorology trainees off for more training at regional MET offices

Kendly Smith and Joshua Daniels, two local young men are now off for practical experience as Meteorological Technicians in two sister Caribbean Islands.

They are now undertaking further training, having recently completed five months of training at the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) in Barbados in July.

The duo took part in the intensive Entry-Level Meteorological Technician (ELMT) course for

meteorological observers.

It is a course intended to provide basic meteorological knowledge and practice in weather observing procedures and in the plotting of synoptic and aviation reports.

Daniels will undertake his operational training at the Barbados Meteorological Service, while Smith will undergo his at the National Meteorological Service of Belize.

This will be conducted over the course of two months.

Disney to launch cheaper ad-supported service in UK

Disney+ plans to launch a new, cheaper streaming option with adverts in the UK in November as profits continue to fall at the business.

The plan, which is already available in the US, will also be introduced to parts of Europe as well as Canada.

The new tier will cost £4.99 per month in the UK, but existing customers face a £3 price rise to keep current perks.

It also plans to crack down on password sharing, following similar action taken by rival Netflix.

Disney is facing a range of issues including lacklustre film performance and a sharp drop in advertising sales in its traditional television business.

Overall, revenue at the company grew by 4% year-on-year in the three months ending 1 July, but it posted a loss of $460m (£361m), compared to a $1.4bn profit in the same period last year.

There is currently only a single

price tier for Disney+ in the UK, which costs £7.99 per month, but come November there will be three new tiers available. These are: Standard with ads: which will cost £4.99 per month and offer 1080p video and the ability for two people to watch on different devices.

Standard: £7.99 per month - the same as above, but without ads

and with the ability to download videos to watch offline.

Premium: £10.99 per monthoffering 4k video, downloads, and up to four different devices at once.

All UK subscribers currently enjoy the benefits offered by the new premium service, so its introduction will effectively represent a £3 per month price

increase for people who want to keep the same features.

The introduction of Disney’s adsupported service follows a similar move by rival Netflix last year.

It was among a number of measures brought in by Netflix, the market leader, after growth in subscriber numbers began to falter in 2022.

The streaming giant also cracked down on account sharing, something Mr Iger said Disney now planned to do.

The company spotlighted progress in its streaming business, where losses were cut in half from a year ago to about $500m in the three months to 1 July.

Subscriptions to its core Disney+ service grew 1% to 105.7 million, as growth internationally offset a 1% decline in the US.

‘DISAPPOINTING’

However, Disney acknowledged that the performance of some recent films - which included a new live action Little Mermaid and

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3had been “disappointing”.

It also said its Disney Hotstar service in India, which has been struggling since losing the right to show cricket matches, saw subscriptions plunge 24%, while other offerings, including ESPN and Hulu saw little change.

Insider Intelligence analyst Paul Verna said the company’s “mixed results” would do little to calm investors “anxious for clarity on the company’s strategy for its streaming services and TV networks”.

“While it’s encouraging that Disney narrowed its streaming losses in the past quarter, it did so mostly through massive reductions in workforce and content spending, rather than through organic growth.”

The company said that visitor numbers had flagged at its amusement park in Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis has been feuding with Disney over what he describes as “woke” policies.

AUTO

• Must have 3 years post qualification experience and be registered with the Medical and Dental Council/HPA.

INTERVIEWING FOR:

BARTENDER

Experienced English speaking bartender required from 12 noon to 8 pm for small poolside bar. Starting Hourly Wage of $9. to $10. per hour subject to qualifications and experience.

RESUMES CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT HOTEL OR EMAILED TO TLEWIN@PORTSOFCALLRESORT.COM

Candidate must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Salary $8/hr. Duties will include erecting signs, clearing paths and cleaning properties. Position held by work permit holder. Turks & Caicos Islanders are invited to submit their resumes to the Labour Department.

Excellent everyday transportation. New shocks, brakes all around, and complete custom-built exhaust system. Great air conditioning and good tires. Outstanding reliability and impeccably maintained. Only one owner since arriving on Provo in 2001.

BEEN CONSTRUCTION

ROOFER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, LABOURER @ $9.00 PER HOUR, MASON @ $10.00 PER HOUR, CARPENTER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, PAINTER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, TILER @ $10, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR @ $12.00 PER HOUR, ELECTRICIAN @ $15.00 PER HOUR, PLUMBER @ $10.00 PER HOUR, CLEANER $9 PER HOUR.. NEEDED 5 DAYS A WEEK.

All applicants must have at least 10 years’ experience in the commercial and residential construction industry. Salary negotiable depending on qualification and experience level.

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

NOTICE

REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION). REGULATIONS, 2021

Applicant must have experience as a Floral Assistant or Florist. Must have extensive knowledge of tropical flowers, foliage and potted plants, including their names, seasonal availability and lifespan. Candidates must have experience using current styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for weddings, funerals etc. salary commensurate with experience.

An Application, REGISTERED PR 16960, by RUTH GARDINER-FORBES AND KENO FORBES for OUTLINE DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION for THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN APARTMENT COMPLEX: TWO (2) TWO STOREY BUILDINGS CONTAINING FOUR (4) STUDIO UNITS, EIGHT (8) ONEBEDROOM UNITS, SIX (6) TWO-BEDROOM UNITS, GAZEBO, SWIMMING POOL AND DECK AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES. This application has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Outline Development Permission on Block & Parcel 60810/158, which is 0.90 acres of land located at Pond View Drive, The Bight, Providenciales. The proposed development is inconsistent with a plan which has been approved.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via in person or video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing or in person, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board. Dated: July 31st, 2023

DOMESTIC WORKER

get dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry. Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of

CONTACT: 341-3075

CONTACT: 244-1862

DOMESTIC WORKER

DOMESTIC WORKER

Sweeping,

CONTACT: 242-2716

MACENA

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 348-9917

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

CONTACT: 341-0497

STORE ATTENDANT

CONTACT: 333-7970

CONTACT: 243-2925

trimming, shampooing, and styling hair, trimming beards, or giving shaves. Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.

ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Help the patient get dressed, eat, bathe and complete light housekeeping duties, such as dishes or folding laundry. Plan, prepare and monitor meals. Run errands, remind patients of medications. Salary: $350.00 weekly

CONTACT: 343-4554

Shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. Makeup, dress wigs, perform hair removal, nail and skin care services. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 331-8154

Trimming wooden structures and ornaments and complete final details. Installing windows

CONTACT: 247-0801

CONTACT: 245-3160

12 years’ experience required. Create made-tomeasure dresses, skirts, etc. Cut and sew clothing.

$8.00 Hourly

12 years’ experience required. Measure parts such as sleeves or pant legs, and mark or pinfold alteration lines. $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 242-7211

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

A skilled worker that can undertake any job as a helper by profession. Salary: $10.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 649-346-0002

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

EASYWAY EMPLOYEMENT SERVICES

Responsible for purchasing products, materials, and services. Duties include assessing the market, ordering new products, and keeping accurate records. Reviews and analyzes inventory for an Salary:organization.

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing a 2 year-old, administering medicine, doing housework, etc. Fluent in Spanish, verbal and written. Work 6 days a week.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: WBELLIARD@

CLARA LIGHTBOURNE

Millennium Highway 333-1236

$8.00 hourly

Assist with ongoing construction on the property and maintain apartments

COMPLE BEAUTY SALON

Blue Hills Road 345-8505

$8.00 hourly

Braiding men and women hair, styling all type of hair, braids children hair.

LABOURER HAIRDRESSER SALES CLERK

FISH & THING

Dock Yard 344-3858

Unloading container, assist with transporting goods, assist customers in out of the store with merchandise.

BABYSITTER

CORDERO MISSICK

Blue Hills 342-7027

$8.00 hourly

Caring for our one year 1 year old son, monitor, feed him, bath & dress him & cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron.

LABOURER

JACKLYN B. JEAN

Five Cays 341-2314

$8.00 hourly

Pick up waste and maintaining upkeep of apartments and property.

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

READY TO GO

#2 Parade Ave. Butterfield Sq.

LABOURER $11.00 p/h

Cleaning and preparing a job site, Tel: 964-8583

COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION

#53, P. O. Box 68, Blue Mountain, Providenciales Tel: 231-0337

CONSTRUCTION LABOUR

$17.00 p/h

Loading or unloading materials, and removing hazards

INSIGHT LTD #5 Eddie Laporte Plaza, Dowtown . Provo Tel: 399-9000

BAKER $8.00 p/h

Preparing garnishes for baked items.

ALICE KITCHEN S. Dock Rd. Provo Tel: 241-1608

2 KITCHEN HELPER-$8.00 p/h

BELONGERS

Clean kitchen areas and wash dishes

PURE REJUVE

Provo Plaza #5, 963 Leeward Hwy Tel: 343-6029

MASSEUSE $8.00 Manipulate clients' muscles and soft tissues, STEEL UNLIMITED

Mary Jane, Blue Hills, Tel: 341-4502

MASON

$8.00 p/h

Fabricates, alters, repairs, and maintains walls, bathroom showers and sink etc.

SOUTHWIND MILLWORK

6 Industrial Park Rd, Providenciales Tel: 946-5700

FINISH PAINTING

$11.00 P/H

Sanding, painting & staining

38132

KITEBOARD & WINGFOIL INSTRUCTOR

We are looking for an experienced instructor to teach all aspects of kiteboarding and Wing foiling for our resort, ensuring all safety protocols and guest satisfaction. This includes providing lessons, communications with guests prior and during lessons and maintaining the equipment assets, accounting for guest/client billings and ensuring the operation runs well.

To be successful in this role, the applicant must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience as a kiteboarding and Wing foil instructor. Be an excellent communicator in English and a second language is a plus. Must be IKO, PASA or equivalent certified. Boat operators’ experience is important and other guiding or tour operator experience is desired. Expected to work long hours.

The salary is $2000 monthly plus service fee.

Stocking and supplying facilitydesignated areas, and cleaning the boats etc. Salary:

CONTACT:

CONTACT: 241-4894

Cleaning outside

property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 344-5314

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONSTRUCTION

TROPICANA UPHOLSTERY

VACANCIES

Mixes mortar; lays bricks and stones and/or concrete sidewalks; makes and repairs steps and plasters.

Salary: $9.00 hourly

CONTACT: 348-7428

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

38141

Sweeping, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, and other work necessary. $8.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER CARPENTER

Follow blueprints and building plans. Install windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials. $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-244-7033

BELONGERS ONLY APPLY/RENEWAL

38058

JEANITHE VERNET PIERRE-CHARLES Kew Town, PLS. 341-8081

DOMESTIC WORKER $8.00 per hour Clean, cook, wash,

ONLY BELONGER APPLY/RENEWAL WORK PERMIT

38159

Shampooing, cutting, and styling hair, provide hair treatments, deep conditioning, permanents, coloring, and weaving. Salary: $8.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

CONTACT: 243-0278

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

JONATHAN L. ROBERTS

DRIVER/ OPERATOR

LABOURER

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 232-2109

CONTACT: 232-2347

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework.

Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 342-0275/241-5071

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

JOSHUA DAVID WILLIAMS

Cleaning outside the property with sweeper, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes. Salary: $8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 244-0117

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED

CONTACT: 333-6328

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR

Uses equipment like nets, fishing rods, and traps, to catch fish that will be consumed by humans or used as animal feed or bait.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

DOMESTIC WORKER

Cleaning the house,sheets,laundering towels and personal clothing and housework.other

Salary: $8.00 hourly

Cleaning the house, laundering sheets, towels, personal clothing, and other housework. $8.00 Hourly

Cleaning property, pick up yard waste and collect leaves, dispose of trash, clean windows, and doorframes.

$8.00 Hourly

CONTACT: 341-4904 38160

CONTACT: 244-1121

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD RENEWAL

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

CONTACT: 243-3718 38120

AUTO MECHANIC

• At least 6 years or more experience as an Auto Mechanic

• Able to maintain vehicle functional condition by listening to customers/ operator complaints, conduct inspections, repair engine failures, repair mechanical and electrical systems malfunctions and replace parts and components according to manufacturer standards specially Japanese vehicles.

• Must hold a valid driver license

• Knowledge of tools and equipment required to conduct all repairs.

• Basic wage is $11.00 per hour

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

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

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

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

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

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

COURT REPORTER

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

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

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

REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION). REGULATIONS, 2021

An Application, REGISTERED PR 16843 by AD RENTALS LTD. for OUTLINE DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION for THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN APARTMENT COMPLEX CONSISTING OF ONE (1) 3-STOREY BUILDING CONTAINING SIX (6) ONE BEDROOM UNITS, EIGHTEEN (18) EFFICIENCY UNITS, MANAGER’S OFFICE, GYM, SPA, SWIMMING POOL AND DECK AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES.

This application has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Outline Development Permission on Block & Parcel 60906/130 which is 0.77 acres of land located at Sunshine Loop, Leeward Going Through, (Grace Bay), Providenciales.

The proposed development is inconsistent with a plan which has been approved.

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

PUBLIC CONSULTATION NOTICE

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) REPORT – FOR THE MOLO HOTEL DEVELOPMENT FOR PLANNING APPLICATION PR15987 – BLOCK AND PACEL NUMBERS 60813/17,18, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

The Environmental Impact Assessment Report – for the Molo Hotel Development for Planning Application PR15987 – Block and Parcel Numbers 60813/17,18, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands has been finalized and is available online for public review at: https://gov.tc/planning/images/docs/PR15987.pdf

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

The Environmental Impact Assessment Report was submitted in accordance with Section 44 (1) b of the Physical Planning Ordinance. Comments on the EIA report can be sent to the Department of Planning at planningconsultation@gov.tc or to the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, or at South Base, Grand Turk on or before September 1st, 2023.

A Public Consultation on the EIA will be held on Tuesday, September 12th, 2023 at 6:30p.m. – 7:30p.m. at the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

MAINTENANCE WORKER

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Wymara Resort and Villas 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.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Certified Charted Account will be responsible for leading financial audits, analyzing, implement and monitor accounting systems and controls to effectively meet year end goals. This role will require comprehensive knowledge of hospitality accounting and controls, auditing, preparing monthly financial reports utilizing Microsoft office, SAP (Systems Applications and Products) and R-Data SQL (Structured Query Language).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Analyze accounting processes, procedures, and relevant compliance with regulatory framework (IFRS and IFRS for SMEs).

• Establishes and audits all internal financial controls, including purchasing, cash handling and disbursements, inventories and Resort and Villas FFE and personnel time records.

• Prepares forecast and budgets as required (Annual, Quarterly, Monthly, and/or on Owner’s requests).

• Develop and implement effective accounting policies and processes.

• Regularly report to Head of Finance and CEO on the company’s financial position and recommend solutions to improve results.

• Ensure you remain up to date on industry changes and changes in regulations.

• Recommends and implement measures to control/reduce costs.

• Works closely with the Heads of Department in regard to inventory taking, cost control, loading, ordering and storing.

• Conduct periodic audits to guarantee accuracy in financial records, expenses, and savings.

• Ensure financial reporting in line with GAAP.

• Government tax preparation and submission.

• Oversee accounting and Banking functions.

• Review balance sheet reconciliations and monthly financial statements.

• Takes required corrective action to ensure operations are in accordance with the company standards and objectives.

• Ensures that regular, on-going communication occurs in all areas of operation (e.g., pre-shift briefings, staff meetings).

DOMESTIC WORKER

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills

• Masters’ of Science Degree in Accounting, financial management and control.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Certified

Internal Auditor, Finance or related field, or equivalent combination of experience and education. ACA designation essential.

• 5 years preferred years of experience in a hotel environment or related field with minimum 4 years managing an accounting function within a luxury resort/hotel environment.

• Exceptional organizational skills and aptitude for numbers.

• Outstanding tax knowledge of Government regulations.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop, mentor and motivate a team.

• Demonstrated success at delivering results through establishment of standard procedures, disciplined coaching and management with strong problem-solving skills

• Possess excellent financial and computer skills in MS Office, Opera PMS; SAP financial management system is a plus.

• Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem-solving skills.

• Deadline 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 language.

• Must be able to work on weekends and holidays. Compensation: $60k - $70k per annum

*LABOURER

- Must have experience in a resort, knowledge of cleaning and preventative maintenance process and pays keen attention to details. Transports and generally maintain all of Maintenance areas. Compensation: $8.00 per hour

*FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Oversees daily operations of the restaurant. Directs the activities of restaurant service personnel, Bartenders, Beverage Attendants, Host/Hostess. Resolve customer complaints regarding food service. Train workers in food preparation, and in service, sanitation, and safety procedures. Observe and evaluate workers and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service. Assign duties, responsibilities, and workstations to employees in accordance with work requirements. Previous experience working in a multicultural 5 Star property. Extensive wine knowledge. Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software, Opera, Micros POS, Open Table, Timeclock,). Must be fluent in English, Compensation: $35k - $45k per annum

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@wymararesortandvillas.com

MANAGERIAL & SUPERVISORY POSITIONS

SUSHI CHEF

• We are looking for a Sushi Chef to join our culinary team and prepare delicious plates for our guests in accordance with food health and safety regulations and restaurant standards.

• Sushi Chef is responsible for handling a wide range of raw fish and other ingredients, managing food stock and working with an attention to detail to fulfill all orders within quality standards.

• Creating a rich sushi menu that include a wide variety of fishes, vegetables and sauces.

• Selecting fresh vegetables and fishes like salmon and tuna on a timely basis.

• Preparing all types of sushi, including maki, nigiri and sashimi according to established guidelines on quality, portion size, presentation and food safety.

• Add additional flavors to sushi rolls.

• Prepare appetizers, soups and salads that are close to the philosophy of Japanese Cuisine.

• Maintaining a clean work environment in order to prevent food contamination.

• Communicating with wait staff to ensure that special requests and food allergy considerations are met.

RESTAURANT CHEF

• Proven experience as a Restaurant Chef.

• Adhere to Health & Safety standards.

• Train kitchen staff on dish preparation to ensure consistency and quality.

• Oversee preparation and preparation of all dishes.

• Explore new culinary trend and cooking technique and infuse in menu to create unique blend.

• Communicate with the dining staff to ensure smooth coordination between kitchen and dining area.

• Providing great dining experiences while responding to guest feedback, accommodating specific requests, and ensuring total client satisfaction.

ASSISTANT RESTAURANT MANAGER

• Must have previous experience in restaurant management or at a supervisory level.

• Creating and designing distinct and appealing menus that reflect the restaurant's theme and appeal to a wide range of customers.

• Managing staff scheduling.

• Delivering superior food and beverage service and maximizing customer satisfaction.

• Responding efficiently and accurately to restaurant customer complaints.

• Maintaining the restaurant’s revenue, profitability and quality goals.

• Ensure efficient restaurant operation, as well as maintain high production, productivity, quality, and customer-service standards.

BAR SUPERVISOR

• Must have previously worked bar supervisor in similar operation.

• Supervise the day-to-day operations of the bar.

• Keeping the bar area clean and orderly, as well as adhering to food safety and sanitary regulations.

• Planning and executing bar services for special events and promotions in collaboration with the events team.

• Supervising and motivating the bar team, which includes bartenders and cocktail servers, to provide great service while adhering to the highest quality standards.

• Developing and maintaining a wide and imaginative beverage menu that includes both classic favorites and one-of-a-kind, handcrafted cocktails.

• Ensure regular training sessions are held to improve the mixology skills of the bar crew and ensure uniformity in cocktail preparation.

GUEST SERVICES SUPERVISOR

• Previous experience in guest service or front desk operations, as well as some supervisory experience.

• Supervise daily shift operations, ensure enough personnel coverage, and coordinate breaks and schedules.

• Handling reservations, cancellations, and hotel assignments, as well as maximizing occupancy rates and inventory management.

• Responding to visitor concerns and resolving issues as soon as possible to ensure a great experience and guest satisfaction.

• Train guest service staff on how to improve their customer service abilities and knowledge of hotel offerings.

• Upselling hotel amenities and services to improve the guest experience and earn revenue.

• Ensure guest get the best check-in and checkout experience.

LINE LEVEL POSITIONS

• Line Cooks

• Chef De Partie

• Entertainment Coordinator

CONTACT:

CAR WASH ATTENDANT

DOMESTIC WORKER

WILNER CHERY

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and disciplining children when necessary.

Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 347-6850

TWO (2) PLUMBERS

Installs pipes and fixtures, installs supports for pipes, equipment, etc. $12.00 Hourly

TWO (2) PAINTERS

Apply paints, stains, and coatings to interior and exterior walls, new buildings, homes, offices and other structural surfaces. $10.00 hourly

CONTACT: 649-333-1199

MANAGER REQUIRED

New retail business in Providenciales, specializing in the import and sale of fruit and vegetables from Europe and the Dominican Republic seeks a manager immediately.

Candidate must be fluent in Spanish and English and must be prepared to travel monthly to the Dominican Republic to source and check product prior to shipping.

Travel to Europe will be required, at least twice per year and the candidate must have appropriate Visas or be exempt from Visa requirement for the EU and the UK.

A thorough knowledge of the fruit and vegetable market, farm to table, wholesale and retail, is required. Salary commensurate with experience.

APPLICATIONS, IN WRITING ONLY, WITH CURRICULUM VITAE AND REFERENCES TO TCIATTORNEY@GMAIL.COM. QUALIFIED ISLANDERS PREFERRED

SENIOR COMMERCIAL LITIGATION ATTORNEY

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Appearing in civil Courts and Tribunals and Appellate Courts.

• Assisting senior attorneys and Leading Counsel in legal research in a variety of work, in particular commercial litigation.

• Drafting of pleadings, statements and other documents for Court cases.

• Obtaining, compiling and analyzing records for discovery including incoming discovery documents.

• Pre-trial preparation and other trial management assistance.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least eight (8) to ten (10) years of experience in legal court and tribunal procedures and significant advocacy experience.

• Experience in the operation, practices, and procedures of a law office engaged in commercial and civil litigation.

• Experience in a variety of work including commercial litigation, civil litigation, judicial review and public law litigation, insolvency law, and employment law.

• Demonstrated ability to manage a large workload including completing multiple tasks to deadlines.

• Must be proactive and able to work both independently and with a professional team.

• Experience in mentoring and training junior attorneys and trainees is essential.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Candidates should have a law degree from a leading University including qualifications in commercial and company law.

• Must have relevant professional qualifications, be admitted to practice in the Turks and Caicos Islands (or eligible for immediate admission), or be admitted in a common law jurisdiction.

• The applicant must have at least eight (8) to ten (10) ten years of relevant experience in practice.

• Computer proficiency with office software including MS Office.

• Professional references and appropriate references in respect of advocacy skills.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Griffiths & Partners offer competitive remuneration for this role. We will also offer support to help professional development and a friendly and collegiate work environment. Salary range between $90,000 to $150,000 per annum depending on seniority and experience.

Closing date for application is August 25, 2023.

D&B AUTO LTD.

AUTO PARTS SPECIALIST

• Must have ten (10) years or more working experience on Japanese Automotive Industry

• Capable to assists customers with selecting required parts and suggest related parts

• Knowledgeable to use multiple Auto Parts system

• Able to multi-task, answer phone calls, provide quotes and other information

• Knowledgeable on inventory and stock leveling

• Basic wage is $12.00 per hour

EASYWAY EMPLOYEMENT SERVICES

38050

JANCILLA A. COX

T: 342-5965

Mary Jane Lanes, Blue Hills

Cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron and care for my children.

NANNY CAREGIVER

PASHA JENNINGS

NORTH CAICOS

T: 243-7299

Caring for my sick son, bathing and feeding him, giving medication and monitor him and care for him.

Salary: $8.00

ALL TIME BARBERSHOP

T: 345-2694

Kew Town

Maintaining the cleanness of the barbershop, cleaning stations and mirrors, bathroom and continuously sweeping the barbershop after each clients. Salary: $8.00

CLEANER PLUMBER

BRUTUS LANDSCAPING

T: 343-1420 Millennium Highway

Fit and maintain water systems in building, hotel, villas and private home and apartment. $10.00

DOMESTIC WORKER

JOHNNY NEAT T: 342-5736

Five Cays

Cleaning the house, make beds, cook, wash, iron and care for my children. Salary: $ 8.00

CAROLINA PHARMACY

38045

PHARMACIST FULL TIME

• Responsible for providing safe and appropriate pharmacy services in a retail pharmacy.

• Experience with and knowledgeable of computers and kroll software.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Able to work independently.

• Proficient in English Language. However, a second language will be an asset.

• Must be willing to work flexible hours, including holidays and weekends in rotation.

• Be able to manage, supervise, and train pharmacy support staff.

• To do daily auditing of sales and submit reports, both on a weekly and monthly basis.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors of Science in Pharmacy from an accredited University.

• Ten (10) years of experience in retail pharmacy.

• Eligible for registration with the Health Practitioners Board Turks and Caicos Islands.

S & F WHOLESALE

CASH AND CARRY LTD.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811

IS NOW HIRING

STORE SUPERVISOR

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

• Must have through knowledge of the following:

• Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most specifically,

• QuickBooks Pro 2020, Microsoft Excel, and Inventory control management.

• Extensive knowledge of SMS Front & Back Office POS System

• Extensive knowledge of NCR 7456 POS

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

• Ensure pricing is correct. Work on store displays.

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

• Evaluate on-the-job performance.

• Identify current and future trends that appeal to consumers.

• Maintain inventory and ensure items are in stock.

• Keep up with fluctuating supply and demand.

• Maintain store cleanliness and health and safety measures.

• Organize and distribute staff schedules.

• Manage different departments within the store.

• Handle customer questions, complaints, and issues.

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

• Able to safely lift boxes

• Salary $9.00 Per Hour.

• This Position is for work permit renewal .

LABOURER(S)

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

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

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

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

DOMESTIC WORKER(S)

• Maintain cleanliness and tidiness of the grocery store premises, including aisles, restrooms, entrance, and parking area.

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

• Restock and organize cleaning supplies as needed.

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

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

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

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

PRODUCE CLERK (S)

• Responsible for doing Manuel work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

• Knowledge on produce products and sanitary methods

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

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

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

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

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION

Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Ltd. Of Cherokee Rd, 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.

PARCEL 10308/158 CENTRAL, GRAND TURK

– Four-bedroom, two bathroom house approximately 2045 sq. ft located in Palm Grove, Grand Turk

Registered Proprietor: Dudley Moore

PARCEL 60717/107K2 CHESHIRE

HALL AND RICHMOND HILL, PROVIDENCIALES

– One bedroom, one bedroom condominium unit approximately 448 sq. ft located near Five Cays, Providenciales.

Registered Proprietor: Celo Celeste N Lightbourne Powell

PARCEL 60717/107K8 CHESHIRE HALL

AND RICHMOND HILL, PROVIDENCIALES

- One bedroom, one bedroom condominium unit approximately 448 sq. ft located near Five Cays, Providenciales.

Registered Proprietor: Donvonno D Cox

The auction will be held at the office of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, 88 Cherokee Road, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Monday, the 15th day of August 2023.

A reserved price will be fixed on all parcels and a deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Conditions of Sale available upon request or at the Auction.

PAMPERED PAWS

61 Gumbo Limbo, Discovery Bay, Providenciales, TCI

• Experience is essential. No less than a minimum of 5 years consecutive and verifiable experience in grooming and animal behavior will be accepted, references will be required

• Experience in Quickbooks

• Must be able to read write and speak the English language

• Must be able to start work at 6am

• Must be able to bath dogs in preparation for grooming, including comb outs, brush outs, stripping, detangling, de-matting and clipping

• Must be able to de-tick manually and use chemicals safely and responsibly

• Cleaning of animals quarters outside and inside bathing and grooming areas, including feces pick up on a hourly basis

• HEAVY LIFTING REQUIRED

• Must have own transport and willing to transport animals in vehicle

• Hourly rate is $8 and is based on experience.

Position is currently held by work permit holders. Belongers are encouraged to send their resume to labor department and Pampered Paws

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST

• Create, update, and maintain standard operating procedures for lab.

• Process and analyze the microbiology of the beer (and water) being produced, use this knowledge to make educated recommendations to the brewers, water production managers, and other members of management team for quality improvement.

• Measure and track dissolved Oxygen and CO2 levels.

• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment.

• Collect and quantify packaged beer archive for sensory panels.

• Manage sensory panels and record results for stability analysis and shelf-life recommendations.

• Perform microbiological testing (aseptic techniques, enrichment, plating, microscopy, PCR) on raw ingredients, in-process beer, and finished beer.

• Develop and manage yeast program including ordering, propagating, monitoring viability and pitch rates with input from Lead Brewer.

• Assist with troubleshooting production issues.

• Research and develop the QA/QC Department.

• Reporting all the above to our Head Brewer, Water Production Manager and General Manager as appropriate.

• Other brewery & water related tasks that may require assistance.

• Any other related duties delegated to by a manager. Salary $62000 per year or commensurate with experience.

On behalf of our client JOSEPHINE MILLSPAUGH a Gardener is required.

To work 6 days per week, must be hardworking and dependable. Must be able to speak English and like animals. Main duties include maintain flowers and trees, including fruit and vegetable garden, general upkeep of property. Salary at $8.00 per hour.

SUNNY FOOD STORE CASH AND CARRY FIVE CAYS

South Dock Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island

Contact No: 1649-9462811 IS

NOW HIRING

SALES CLERK

• Promoting and selling the company’s products and services using excellent sales skills and customer service and developing return customer relationships

• Greeting customers, promoting customer awareness of sales and store promotions, providing customer service, directing customers to merchandise, cross-selling and increasing purchase sales

• Standing for extended period of time

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

• Able to safely lift boxes

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

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

LABOURER(S)

IS NOW HIRING PURCHASER

• Must have prior experience purchasing Asian & American Products.

• Must be have prior experience with Quick Books 2020.

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

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

Interested applicants can email their resume to jobstci@ alliedcaribbean.net or send their resume to the Labour Board. Belongers need only to apply.

• Responsible for doing manual work

• Loading and unloading Container

• Assisting in stocking shelves

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

• Being able to work at heights

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

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

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

LOGISTIC CLERK

• Coordinate and oversee logistics operations in the grocery store

• Manage inventory levels, including ordering and restocking products

• Ensure accurate and timely receiving and checking of deliveries

• Coordinate with suppliers and vendors for smooth logistics operations

• Organize and maintain proper storage and arrangement of products in the store

• Monitor and control stock levels to prevent shortages or excess inventory

• Collaborate with other departments to optimize logistics processes

• Prepare and update reports on inventory levels, shipping, and logistics activities

• Ensure compliance with safety and sanitation regulations in handling and storing products

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

• Salary $8.00 per hour.

• This position is for first-time work permit application..

Interested applicants can email their resume to jobstci@ alliedcaribbean.net or send their resume to the Labour Board. Belongers need only to apply.

37908

FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS

HOUSEKEEPER REQUIRED

For a private villa in PARROT CAY operated by RCI Ltd. Experienced Live-in Housekeeper is needed to work six days a week. Applicants must speak English, must be fit and able and must have at least twelve years’ experience with housekeeping and maintenance at a villa.

Salary is $3,000.00 a month. This job position is currently held by a work permit holder.

SAFE-T-FIRST

Occupation Health and Safety Educator, Providenciales, TCI

SEEKING A FIRST AID AND SAFETY TRAINING AND COMPLIANCE INSTRUCTOR

To facilitate training courses and instruction in OSHA, First Aid, CPR, Water Safety and other safety topics; selling and scheduling training; up-selling safety and first aid products to our training customers; and working with team to ensure customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities include providing group and location education with guidance and support regarding the effective administration of safety and health programs; driving companies efforts to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses; reducing accidents; Personal Protection Equipment Programs; serving as a corporate safety team resource for companies; developing and maintaining safety and health programs, training materials; educating on safety and health policies, procedures and best practices; conducting and reviewing inspections of work spaces to identify potential issues; coordinating and reviewing inspections with partners; developing and monitoring corrective action plans developed to address safety issues; ensuring effective implementation of the safety and health management system; monitoring group safety performance as reflected in monthly safety reports.

REQUIREMENTS;

• OH&S Degree or 5 years of full-time safety experience

• Certified First Aid Trainer

• Train the Trainer Diploma

• Psychologic First Aid Certification

• MSDS and TDS Certification

• Certified Water Safety Trainer

• Emergency Services and/or Disaster Response, training and experience

• Valid Drivers License and Vehicle

• Police Record

ADDITIONAL SKILLS

• Experienced Public Speaker

• Human Resources

• Development of online training programs

• Experience in developing and implementing safety and health management systems

• Ability to travel

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and intranet/internet

• Lift 50 lbs

Salary; $2500.00 per month

CIMA/ACA

An opportunity exists for a financial advisory manager who is a professionally qualified chartered management or financial accountant with a minimum of six years post graduation professional experience gained within a major public accounting firm. This individual is required to manage complex advisory engagements from planning through to completion including leading the engagement team. They will report to the senior managers and directors of the firm. Salary ranges from US$50,000 to US$70,000 per annum. This is a new position. If you wish to be considered for this opportunity please apply in confidence by sending details of your experience and qualifications to either:

SOUTH BANK MARINA LTD

BOATYARD MANAGER/ TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

This is a senior position, as the successful applicant will oversee all areas of the marina aspect of South Bank Marina and Boatyard, Including but not limited all Boat Yard operations, to buildings, IT infrastructure, docks and general seaside activities. As the Boat Yard Manager the successful candidate will be required to produce a Standard Operation Procedure and other procedural and staff training manuals for the Boat Yard, implement and provide leadership and motivation required and develop to maintain a culture of excellence in customer service, people development and the assortment and presentation of services at the Boat Yard.

REQUIRED SPECIFICATIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Must hold intermediate marina managers designation

• Over 10 years of Yard Management experience at a senior level

• Demonstrated achievement in Boat Yard operations based on internationally recognized schemes with proven success

• Must have the ability to identify, develop and implement business strategies and report to Management and Directors on operational and financial performance

• Broad Experience in creation of budgets and business plans and a good understanding of financial information, financial statements and supporting financial documents

• PADI certification ideal

• First Aid Certificate required

• Knowledge and experience in dealing with hazardous and dangerous substances

• Able to work long hours, including holidays and weekends if required

• Ship surveyors certification necessary

• Hold a degree or secondary education in a related field

Salary for this position will be in the range of $80k to $90k per annum depending on experience

NATURAL TRADE DISTRIBUTION LTD

Looking for a skilled

Inventory Controller

TO JOIN THE TEAM

REQUIREMENTS

• 5 year’s experience in Inventory Optimization and Retail

• Experience in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 2.0

• Online QuickBooks and Inventory management system experience

• Fluent (written and oral) in English and Spanish

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

• Flexibility with working hours, weekends and public holidays

• Attention to detail, Customer service and interpersonal skills

• Organization and time management skills

DUTIES

• Receiving and cross-checking orders with stock records

• Coordinating stock counts to maintain accuracy

• Monitoring supplier performance and resolving discrepancies

• Liaising with transport companies, suppliers and clients

• Planning and forecasting inventory items

• Compiling daily reports and addressing inventory discrepancies

• Maintaining records of pricing, purchases and other relevant information

Candidates to apply via email to naturaltradecaribbean@gmail.com and include a resume, cover letter, references. 7960

ACCOUNTANT

Reporting: OCR Controller (U.S. Based)

Department: Accounting Department

Location: Turks & Caicos

Summary of Position:

Responsible for the daily accounting functions for the TCI operations of the company, including the general ledger function, the month-end process, and management reporting for multiple facets within the company, with an understanding of the operations of the business and the underlying relationships and processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Ensure an accurate and timely monthly and yearly accounting close.

2. Prepare and review appropriate ledger entries and reconciliations across multiple entities.

3. Responsible for Vendor Account reconciliations and payments.

4. Ensure all invoices and work-orders are properly coded and approved.

5. Review and monitor cash floats (petty cash) and prepare bank deposits.

6. Assist with weekly payroll processes and act as “backup”.

7. Assist with the development, implementation, and maintaining internal controls and procedures.

8. Assist with miscellaneous accounting projects and work as part of a cross-functional team.

Life.Style.Resort is looking for

LIFESTYLE CONSULTANT

Consistently offering professional and friendly services for resort guests and being able to handle guest concerns and react quickly and professionally in any situation. The candidate must have good communication skills and be excellent at writing.

As a Lifestyle Consultant, your job will include but not limited to developing personalized lifestyle plans and strategies for guests. The candidate will provide ongoing support and guidance to guests to ensure successful implementation of lifestyle plans and stay up to date on the latest trends and research in the health and wellness industry. The applicant will conduct educational seminars and workshops on healthy lifestyle habits for individuals and groups, promote services, and build a client base through networking and marketing efforts. The lifestyle consultant will ensure that the overall experience is organized, professional and will coordinate third-party services such as trainers, chef, meal plan, etc. The participant must be proactive in anticipating guest needs before they ask and be willing to learn new skills, grow and take responsibility at the resort.

REQUIREMENTS:

The applicant must have excellent communication skills and ability to understand guests’ needs and provide personalized lifestyle plans. Knowledge of healthy lifestyle practices and trends needed. A minimum of 5 years’ experience in creating and implementing luxury lifestyle plans is required. The candidate will have strong organizational skills to manage guest’s schedules and needs. Proficiency in relevant software and tools. The applicant must have bachelor’s degree in nutrition, culinary, social work and Psychology. Must be available weekends and evenings.

Salary $2000 monthly. Position for a first-time work permit holder.

9. Regular phone, zoom, e-mail communication with U.S. based Controller and Management

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

1. BS/AS in accounting or a related specialization

2. 3+ year in general ledger accounting

3. Exceptional attention to detail

4. Proficiency in accounting software (Quickbooks preferred) and Excel

5. Superb time-management and organizational skills

6. Excellent collaboration and communication skills

7. Ability to communicate effectively (written and verbal) with all members of the organization and with third parties.

8. Ability to multitask between responsibilities; prioritize and handle multiple requests and projects.

9. High level of integrity, respect, commitment, and confidentiality.

10. Strong Interpersonal skills.

11. Ability to manage and collaborate with off-site employee(s).

All applicants must be able to present a clean Police Record if offered a position. Wage commensurate with experience.

H2O

a dynamic and energetic person to fulfill the position of

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

Wymara Resort and Villas 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.

*VILLA PROJECT ENGINEER

Reports to the Director of Projects and is responsible for providing oversight for overall construction, maintenance and refurbishment projects, planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and control. The Villa Project Engineer will own and manage all aspects of projects to include client relationships, schedules, budgets and profitability through comprehensive project completion. The project manager will develop, refine and update project schedules to ensure all milestones are identified and tracked.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Demonstrate sound structural assessment knowledge and interpretation of design documentation.

• Supervise and monitor contractor compliance with design specification and drawings for all assigned projects.

• Project accounting functions including managing the budget, tracking expenses, and minimizing exposure and risk, in order to report to Director of Projects any budgetary savings.

• Procurement of supplies and parts as well as maintenance of inventory and requisition process, billing and reporting.

• Contract and manage the design and execution.

• Manage document control and ensure project documents are completed timely and filed properly within project management software and database.

• Responsible for establishing and maintaining relationship with Purchasing, IT hotel operations, Suppliers, Contractors; closely monitoring process and coordination of resources.

• Participate in all project and engineering meetings.

• Assist in new project design and scheduling.

• Preparation of project contractor tender packages and vetting.

• Contract administration for preventative maintenance programing.

• Implement, co-ordinate and maintain villa quality assurance programs.

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Bachelor of Engineering Civil Degree with 4-5 years managerial/supervisory field experience. Three+ years of e

• Proficient with AutoCAD, MATALAB, HEC-RAS and Revit

• Must be able to use Microsoft Project scheduling software, or software of industry equivalent.

• Thorough understanding of all types of mechanical equipment, HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems, waste treatment, power, water and fuel consumption

• Excellent organizational skills and the ability manage multiple projects and implement effective solutions while meeting deadlines.

• Must be CPR Certified.

• Hospitality/Hotel engineering management experience is a plus.

• Must have the stamina to work long hours due to Operation’s needs.

• Ability to work flexible schedule including days/weekends/holidays.

Base Range: $35k - $45k per year

*LABOURER

Must have experience in a resort, knowledge of cleaning and preventative maintenance process and pays keen attention to details. Transports and generally maintain all of Maintenance areas. Compensation: $8.00 per hour

DIRECTOR OF ROOMS DIVISION

The Director of Rooms is responsible for the consistent delivery of exceptional performance of Rooms Division in both guest experience and financial results, and for the successful management of all internal and external relationships.

Essential duties include but not limited to:

• Exceptional leadership skills with a proven record of providing consistently high guest experience standards balanced with operational efficiencies.

• Demonstrated success at delivering results through establishment of standard procedures, disciplined coaching and management.

• Provides input into, and executes, strategic plan for assigned department(s) consistent with the strategic vision of the divisions.

• Responsible for preparing and monitoring of fiscal budgets, CAPEX, division operations and marketing strategies to produce both short-term and longterm profitability for Wymara Resort and Villas.

• Provides input into, and executes, the development, implementation, and measurement of guest service standards within assigned department(s), consistent with the company’s established guidelines/standards.

• Participates in the research, development, evaluation and implementation of new products, services, technology and processes to ensure Wymara Resort and Villas competitive position and in anticipation of changing customer needs within the dynamic hospitality environment.

• Ability to perform a myriad of duties with extreme care and attention to detail, while working in a fast-paced and busy environment.

• Pre-opening Experience with proven ability to successfully lead, train motivate, develop staff and processes implementation is essential

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Experienced hospitality executive with minimum 10 years five-star international management success – Caribbean experience desirable with 3-5 years management in each departmental discipline.

• Hospitality Management degree/Financial, Business and/or or equivalent experience, with a passion for customer service

• Thorough knowledge of resort front office and housekeeping procedures, operations and equipment, with the ability to execute all aspects.

• Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a major hotel/resort complex with a Forbes Five Star Rating, LQA & AAA – 5 Diamond Rating

• Proven ability to develop business plans and budgets, and effectively monitor performance to meet objectives

• Energetic, results driven leader with collaborative approach; focused on empowering people; developing skill in others through coaching, training and experiential learning.

• Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problem-solving skills.

• Proficiency with general office PC applications (i.e. Microsoft Office software and Opera, Alice, Opentable, Salto system) to prepare reports, employee schedules, inventories, budgets as required.

• Working knowledge of chemicals, fabric care, carpet care, floor and stone care.

• Knowledge of Laundry operations, textiles, fabric care, equipment and housekeeping techniques.

• Must be fluent in English. Additional languages desirable.

Base Range: $60k - $77k per year

JOB ADVERTISEMENT

*HVAC TECHNICIAN

Must be able to troubleshoot and repair different HVAC systems and maintaining and repairing ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment. Identifying maintenance risks on equipment. Must be HVAC certified. Must be able to work with hand and power tools. Work on ladders and lift a minimum of 50 lbs. Must be able to work independently and have troubleshooting skills. To provide the guests and associates with a secure and comfortable environment by maintaining and ensuring that all mechanical systems are operating in accordance with the Wymara standards. Work in a safe and responsible manner to avoid accidents. Daily monitoring check operations of heat pumps, circulating pumps, check reading temperature. Repair and installation of aircon split type, ceiling type aircon and inverter type unit. Compensation: $20k - $25k Per Annum.

PROTECTION AND SAFETY SUPERVISOR

The practical application of Protection and Safety measures and standards, which will include the wellbeing of staff and guests, according to agreed policies of the company. To direct and coordinate the overall activities of the Protection and Safety Team to guarantee the safety of all guests, employees and protected assets of hotel property.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Ensure that the company’s premises, assets, customers, guests and staff are safe and secure through effective deployment, resourcing, communication and timely response to threats and incidents.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, develop skills, mentor and motivate a team.

• Thorough knowledge of resort security procedures, operations and equipment, with the ability to execute all aspect

• Ensures property policies are administered consistently, disciplinary procedures and documentation are completed according to Standard and Local Operating Procedures (SOPs and LSOPs) and supports the peer review process.

• Initiate investigations or where appropriate to personally carry out an investigation ensuring clear, concise and factual records are taken and communicated.

• Maintain proactive communication, with the Executives and Heads of Departments, regarding relevant protection and safety matters and where employees are concerned, to maintain direct contact with the Human Resources Director as soon as practically possible.

• Organize and ensure fire training; to ensure that regular checks and inspections of fire exits, equipment are carried out and to report and/or deal with any deficiencies or any irregularities with fire exits or equipment and to bring these

Cleaning outside

to the prompt attention of

Management SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily.

• Senior Security, Protection and Supervisor experience required with certification in First Aid training

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior Security Supervisor with 3/5 years at a luxury resort

• Thorough knowledge of fire, health and safety systems.

• Well versed with Computers/CCTV Footage/ Vigilance during Operations.

• Ability to effectively deal with internal and external guests, some of whom will require high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy to defuse anger and collect accurate information.

• Self-motivated and dependable with an exceptional work ethic and strong problemsolving skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language

• Excellent organizational skills and the ability manage multiple projects and implement effective solutions while meeting deadlines.

• Computer proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

• Must have the stamina to work long hours due to Operation’s needs.

• Ability to work flexible schedule including days/ weekends/holidays.

Compensation: from $16.00 to $20.00 per hour including service fee. Depending on experience.

*Director of Engineering: Responsible for all aspects of the maintenance of the Resort Operations. The Director of Engineering will provide technical direction and ensures compliance with all local and state building codes and quality standards. Responsibilities span a broad spectrum, covering all the areas of project management such as Project Planning, Cost Management, Inventory Management, Time Management, Quality Management, FF&E Management and overviews Health & Safely. Preopening Experience is essential with proven ability to successfully lead comprehensive renovative and maintenance projects to completion and on schedule. Must have at least 10/15 years’ experience in Engineering, Facilities, Property Management with working knowledge of Hotel and Villa experience in a similar position and knowledgeable in all disciplines of Maintenance/ Engineering. Advanced Degree with distinction of Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Advanced Degree with distinction Business, Commerce and Management Studies, Degree.

Compensation: $65k - $72k Per Annum.

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@wymararesortandvillas.com

CONTACT: 344-6932

DOMESTIC WORKER

(1) EQUIPMENT REPAIR MAN

DOMESTIC WORKER

Duties:

• Repair/Install sheetrock or any maintenance requests;

• Assist with light carpentry;

• Calculate materials needed weekly;

• Keep log of all works/materials;

• Keep record of inventory and organize materials in containers.

CONTACT: (649)431-2971

HORIZON CONSTRUCTION LTD. 38128

VACANCIES

TILER

CARPENTER

Install doors, framework etc.

AUTO BODY REPAIR TECHNICIAN

FINAL

(341-8585)

REQUIRES QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED

ELECTRICIANS, MAINTENANCE WORKER AND PLUMBERS

ELECTRICIANS must have a recognized qualification/ licence from a governing body in country of origin and at least 10 years experience on large commercial projects is essential. Duties will include electrical installations, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects.

Electricians pay starting at $12.00 per hour.

PLUMBERS must have at least 10 years experience

on commercial projects and duties will include plumbing installations, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Plumbers pay starting at $10.00 per hour. MAINTENANCE WORKERS must have at least 10 years experience on commercial projects and duties, repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial projects. Maintenance worker pay starting at $10.00 per hour.

NATURAL TRADE DISTRIBUTION LTD

INVENTORY CONTROLLER TO

JOIN THE TEAM

DOMESTIC WORKER/ CARE TAKER

Sweeping the house, mopping the floor, clean bathrooms, toilets, kitchen, living room, laundering sheets, towels and personal clothing and other housework. Salary: $8.00

CONTACT: 332-0311

Candidates must be Excellent and Strong Swimmers, English Speakers and have a Valid Driver’s License Starting Hourly Wage of $9.00 per hour plus additional Service Charge Payout for Estimated Total Years Earnings of Approximately $36,000. RESUMES CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT

TO TLEWIN@PORTSOFCALLRESORT.COM

B & S COOLING SERVICES

HANDYMAN

Duties and Responsibilities:

•

REQUIREMENTS

• 5 year’s experience in Inventory Optimization and Retail

• Experience in Logistics and Supply Chain Management 2.0

• Online QuickBooks and Inventory management system experience

• Fluent (written and oral) in English and Spanish

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

• Flexibility with working hours, weekends and public holidays

• Attention to detail, Customer service and interpersonal skills

• Organization and time management skills

DUTIES

• Receiving and cross-checking orders with stock records

• Coordinating stock counts to maintain accuracy

• Monitoring supplier performance and resolving

•

•

•

CONTACT NO. 941-8112

38070

CANDIDATES TO APPLY VIA EMAIL TO NATURALTRADECARIBBEAN@GMAIL.COM

$8.00 Hourly

General cleaning duties.

10 BUTLERS-$8.00 Hourly Greet guests at the door, assist in the planning of events and dinner parties, oversee table settings, and serve drinks and food.

SHA CONSTRUCTION, MAID TO CLEAN, NEWTECH CONSTRUCTION CARPENTERS, WELDERS, MASONS, PLUMBERS, TILE LAYERS, LABOURERS, PAINTERS, STEELMAN, CLEANERS.

Must be able to read and understand building drawings; layout and erect brick wall, concrete columns, beams, supports concrete staircases; concrete floor rending, layout and build driveways, deck floors, swimming pool, cisters, competent with masonry tool and working knowledge of imperial and metric measurement. Perform maintenance and minors repairs (replacing broken switches, fixing doors handles, minor leaks, cut and polish rocks, install, measure, cut and shape).

Salaries started @$8- $13 per hr. Work 5-6 days a week.

CELL : 432-3447

Sports International

UCI Cycling World Championships 2023: Sarah Storey wins

36th

Para-cycling gold

Great Britain’s Sarah Storey won her 36th Para-cycling gold at the Cycling World Championships.

The 45-year-old was the second starter in the C5 individual time trial and set a time of 39 minutes 48.89 seconds over a 28.2km course in Dumfries.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois suffers anterior cruciate ligament injury

Real Madrid goalkeeper

Thibaut Courtois has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and is likely to miss the majority of the season.

The 31-year-old Belgium international will have surgery in the coming days.

Courtois, who was named

the best goalkeeper in the world at last year’s Ballon d’Or awards, has won Spain’s La Liga twice since joining Real in 2018.

He has made 230 appearances for Real, who play Athletic Bilbao in their first La Liga game of the season on Saturday.

That was comfortably enough for Storey to clinch gold, with Australia’s Alana Foster 1:14.41 slower in second.

GB mountain bikers Tom Pidcock and Evie Richards then claimed bronze in the cross-country short track.

Storey now has 17 world titles on the road and aims to add to her tally of 17 Paralympic golds - including five from swimming - in Paris next year.

Women’s World Cup 2023: Netherlands’ Beerensteyn glad ‘big mouth’ USA are out

Netherlands forward Lineth

Beerensteyn says she celebrated the USA’s World Cup exit as the defending champions had “a really big mouth”.

The USA beat the Dutch in the 2019 final but their title defence ended with defeat by Sweden on penalties on Sunday.

The four-time winners’ last-16 exit was their worst performance at a World Cup.

“The first moment when I heard that they were out, I was just thinking, ‘Yes! Bye!’” said Beerynsteyn.

“From the start of this tournament they already had a really big mouth,” the Juventus attacker added, before the Netherlands’ quarter-final against Spain in Wellington.

“They were talking already about the final and

stuff.

“I was just thinking, ‘you first have to show it on the pitch before you are talking’.”

The USA were bidding for an unprecedented third consecutive title, having previously never failed to reach the semi-finals.

They opened their World Cup campaign with a 3-0 win over Vietnam but then failed to win another game, including a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands in the group phase which meant the Dutch finished ahead of them in Group E.

“I am not being rude in that way. I mean, I have still a lot of respect for them, but now they are out of the tournament,” said Beerensteyn.

“For them, it’s a thing that they have to take with them

in the future - don’t start to talk about something that’s far away.

“I hope that they will learn from that.”

“I’m so pleased I came here early to prepare on the course,” said Storey. “I didn’t want to leave anything to chance and I really felt that paid off.”

Team-mate Morgan Newberry finished 3:23.59 behind the Paralympic legend in fifth place.

PIDCOCK & RICHARDS WIN MOUNTAIN BIKE BRONZES

Olympic mountain biking champion Pidcock had a boost on day eight in Scotland as fellow multidiscipline star Mathieu van der Poel did not take his place at the start line.

The Dutch rider, 28, will focus on Saturday’s crosscountry event instead as he is still recovering from a crash en route to winning the road race title last Sunday.

Defending champion Sam Gaze was among the leaders

for most of the 11 laps of the 0.9km course in Glentress Forest while Pidcock, who started in 31st place, jostled for position in the top 10.

Gaze was clear on the final corner but Pidcock, 24, made a last-ditch move on the inside of Luca Schwarzbauer to go third, which sent the German sliding to the deck.

Pidcock then crossed two seconds behind New Zealand’s Gaze, who claimed his second straight title in 20 minutes 27 seconds, despite a desperate lunge by Victor Koretzky of France.

“It was a very technical race and, for me, it felt safest to ride it from the front, to ride my tempo and try to recover between the climbs,” said Gaze.

The women’s race lasted 10 laps over the same course with Richards, world champion over the crosscountry Olympic distance in 2021, among a group of six

that broke away on the fifth lap.

The 26-year-old led into the final lap but defending champion Pauline FerrandPrevot of France streaked clear on the climb to win in 21:17, four seconds ahead of Dutch rider Puck Pieterse and nine ahead of Richards. Besides Storey’s success, there were plenty more Para-cycling medals for GB, with two coming in the women’s C1 individual time trial as Frances Brown won gold and Katie Toft took bronze.

Finlay Graham won silver in the men’s C3 individual time trial and Amelia Cass claimed bronze in the women’s C2 individual time trial.

Sophie Unwin and her pilot Jenny Holl came second in the women’s B individual time trial, behind Ireland’s Katie-George Dunlevy and her pilot Linda Kelly. (BBC)

Science & Technology

Fitness: Fewer than 5,000 steps a day enough to boost health - study

It has long been touted that 10,000 steps a day is the magic number you need to stay fit and healthybut a new study shows fewer than 5,000 may be enough to see a benefit.

The analysis of more than 226,000 people around the world showed 4,000 was enough to start reducing the risk of dying prematurely of any cause.

Just over 2,300 is enough to benefit the heart and blood vessels.

The more you do, the more health benefits are seen, researchers said.

Every extra 1,000 steps beyond the 4,000 reduced the risk of dying early by 15% up to 20,000 steps.

The team from the Medical University of Lodz in Poland and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the US found the walking benefits applied to all genders and ages, regardless of where they lived.

However, the biggest benefits were seen among the under-60s.

Prof Maciej Banach, from the Lodz university, said that while the number of advanced drugs for treatment was growing, they were

was enough to start reducing the risk of dying prematurely of any cause.

not the only answer.

“I believe we should always emphasise that lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, which was a main hero of our analysis, might be at least as, or even more, effective in reducing cardiovascular risk and prolonging lives,” he said.

According to World Health

Organization data, insufficient physical activity is responsible for 3.2 million deaths each year - the fourth most frequent cause worldwide.

Honey Fine, a personal trainer and instructor for global fitness company Barry’s, emphasises the problems that come from sitting down too much.

“It can slow your metabolism and affect muscle growth and strength, which can cause aches and pains,” she tells the BBC.

“Sitting down for too long can also cause all sorts of back problems, we find this a lot with people with office jobs, that their backs are constantly put in a stressed compressed position which causes a lot more problems later on in life.”

She explains the importance of non-exercise activity thermogenesis - also known as Neat, “which in simple terms is everything we do that uses energy and burns calories”.

“Tasks like standing, carrying shopping, washing the floors, hoovering, pacing whilst talking on the phone - it’s all the little things that make us more active that help us to burn calories more efficiently,” she said.

Ms Fine says that although adding regular walks into your life may be daunting, the rewards are great when it comes to your health.

“Walking can lower your blood pressure, strengthen your muscles to protect your bones, it can increase energy levels as well as

giving you endorphins and it can help you maintain a healthy weight alongside healthy eating,” she says. Other benefits include boosts to your mental health and important time away from screens and other distractions.

Walking is suitable for “almost anybody” because it is low impact and easy on joints and muscles, she added.

A PERSONAL TRAINER’S TOP TIPS FOR WALKING

Walk to the station rather than going by bus or car

If you work at a desk, set hourly reminders to get up and move around

If you are pregnant, walking is the best kind of exercise to do Take a daily 30-minute walk listening to a podcast Walk with friends in a park or forest trails and walk the dog if you have one

Start small - a 10-minute walk from the station to the office can easily build up to a 20-minute stroll in the park and finally a 30-minute walk around town.

Ocean heat record broken, with grim implications for the planet

The oceans have hit their hottest ever recorded temperature as they soak up warmth from climate change, with dire implications for our planet’s health.

The average daily global sea surface temperature beat a 2016 record this week, according to the EU’s climate change service Copernicus.

It reached 20.96C (69.73F) - far above the average for this time of year.

Oceans are a vital climate regulator. They soak up heat, produce half Earth’s oxygen and drive weather patterns.

Warmer waters have less ability to absorb carbon dioxide, meaning more of that planet-warming gas will stay in the atmosphere. And it can also accelerate the melting of glaciers that flow into the ocean, leading to more sea level rise.

Hotter oceans and heatwaves disturb marine species like fish and whales as they move in search of cooler waters, upsetting the food chain. Experts warn that fish stocks could be affected.

Some predatory animals including sharks can become aggressive as they get confused in hotter temperatures.

“The water feels like a bath when you jump in,” says Dr Kathryn Lesneski, who is monitoring a

marine heatwave in the Gulf of Mexico for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“There is widespread coral bleaching at shallow reefs in Florida and many corals have already died.”

“We are putting oceans under more stress than we have done at any point in history,” says Dr Matt Frost, from the Plymouth Marine Lab in the UK, referring to the fact pollution and overfishing also change the oceans.

Dr Samantha Burgess, from the Copernicus Climate Change Service, says March should be when the oceans globally are warmest, not August.

“The fact that we’ve seen the record now makes me nervous about how much warmer the ocean may get between now and next March,” she says.

“It is sobering to see this change happening so quickly,” says Prof Mike Burrows, who is monitoring impacts on Scottish sea shores with the Scottish Association for Marine Science.

Scientists are investigating why the oceans are so hot right now but say that climate change is making the seas warmer as they absorb most of the heating from greenhouse gas emissions.

“The more we burn fossil fuels,

The average daily global sea surface temperature beat a 2016 record this week

the more excess heat will be taken out by the oceans, which means the longer it will take to stabilize them and get them back to where they were,” explains Dr Burgess.

The new average temperature record beats one set in 2016 when the naturally occurring climate fluctuation El Niño was in full swing and at its most powerful.

El Niño happens when warm water rises to the surface off the west coast of South America, pushing up global temperatures.

Another El Niño has now started but scientists say it is still weakmeaning ocean temperatures are

expected to rise further above average in the coming months.

The broken temperature record follows a series of marine heatwaves this year including in the UK, the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Gulf of Mexico.

“The marine heatwaves that we’re seeing are happening in unusual locations where we haven’t expected them,” says Prof Burgess.

In June, temperatures in UK waters were 3C to 5C higher than average, according to the Met Office and the European Space

Agency.

In Florida, sea surface temperatures hit 38.44C (101F) last week - comparable to a hot tub. Normally temperatures should be between 23C and 31C, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Marine heatwaves doubled in frequency between 1982 and 2016, and have become more intense and longer since the 1980s, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

While air temperatures have seen some dramatic increases in recent years, the oceans take longer to heat up, even though they have absorbed 90% of the Earth’s warming from greenhouse gas emissions.

But there are signs now that ocean temperatures may be catching up. One theory is a lot of the heat has been stored in ocean depths, which is now coming to the surface, possibly linked to El Niño, says Dr Karina von Schuckmann at Mercator Ocean International.

While scientists have known that the sea surface would continue to warm up because of greenhouse gas emissions, they are still investigating exactly why temperatures have surged so far above previous years. (BBC)

Science & Technology

Scientists at Fermilab close in on fifth force of nature

Scientists near Chicago say they may be getting closer to discovering the existence of a new force of nature.

They have found more evidence that sub-atomic particles, called muons, are not behaving in the way predicted by the current theory of sub-atomic physics.

Scientists believe that an unknown force could be acting on the muons.

More data will be needed to confirm these results, but if they are verified, it could mark the beginning of a revolution in physics.

All of the forces we experience every day can be reduced to just four categories: gravity, electromagnetism, the strong force and the weak force. These four fundamental forces govern how all the objects and particles in the Universe interact with each other.

The findings have been made at a US particle accelerator facility called Fermilab. They build on results announced in 2021 in which the Fermilab team first suggested the possibility of a fifth force of nature.

Since then, the research team has gathered more data and reduced the uncertainty of their measurements by a factor of two, according to Dr Brendan Casey, a senior scientist at Fermilab.

“We’re really probing new territory. We’re determining the (measurements) at a better precision than it has ever been seen before.”

In an experiment with the catchy name ‘g minus two (g2)’ the researchers accelerate the sub-atomic particles called muons around a 50-foot-diameter ring, where they are circulated about 1,000 times at nearly the speed of light. The researchers found that they might be behaving in a way that can’t be explained by the current theory, which is called the Standard Model, because of the

influence of a new force of nature.

Although the evidence is strong, the Fermilab team hasn’t yet got conclusive proof.

They had hoped to have it by now, but uncertainties in what the standard model says the amount of wobbling in muons should be, has increased, because of developments in theoretical physics.

In essence, the goal posts have been moved for the experimental physicists.

The researchers believe that they will have the data they need, and that the theoretical uncertainty will have narrowed in two years’ time sufficiently for them to get their goal. That said, a rival team at Europe’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) are hoping to get there first.

Dr Mitesh Patel from Imperial

College London is among the thousands of physicists at the LHC attempting to find flaws in the Standard Model. He told BBC News that the first people to find experimental results at odds with the standard model would be one of the all time breakthroughs in physics.

“Measuring behaviour that doesn’t agree with the predictions of the Standard Model is the holy grail for particle physics. It would fire the starting-gun for a revolution in our understanding because the model has withstood all experimental tests for more than 50 years.”

Fermilab says that its next set of results will be “the ultimate showdown” between theory and experiment that may uncover new particles or forces.

So what is the Standard Model and why is getting an experimental result that doesn’t quite fit in with its predictions such a big deal?

Everything in the world around us is made from atoms - which in turn are made from even smaller particles. These interact to create the four forces of nature: electricity and magnetism (electromagnetism), two nuclear forces and gravity. Their behaviour is predicted by the standard model, and for fifty years it has predicted their behaviour perfectly, with no errors whatsoever.

Muons are similar to electrons which orbit atoms and are responsible for electrical currents, but they are about 200 times as massive.

In the experiment they were made to wobble, using powerful, superconducting magnets.

The results showed that the muons wobbled faster than the standard model said it should. Prof Graziano Venanzoni, of Liverpool University, who is one of the leading researchers on the project, told BBC News that this might be caused by an unknown new force.

“We think there could be another force, something that we are not aware of now. It is something different, which we call the ‘fifth force’.

“It is something different, something we don’t know about yet, but it should be important, because it says something new about the Universe.”

If confirmed, this would represent arguably one of the biggest scientific breakthroughs for a hundred years, since Einstein’s theories of relativity. That is because a fifth force and any particles associated with it are not part of the Standard Model of particle physics.

Researchers know that there is what they describe as “physics beyond the Standard Model” out there, because the current theory can’t explain lots of things that astronomers observe in space.

These include the fact that galaxies are continuing to accelerate apart after the Big Bang that created the Universe, rather than the expansion slowing down. Scientists say the acceleration is being driven by an unknown force, called dark energy.

Galaxies are also spinning faster than they should, according to our understanding of how much material is in them. Researchers believe it’s because of invisible particles called dark matter, which again are not part of the Standard Model.

The results have been published in the Journal Physical Review Letters. (BBC)

There’s a new coronavirus variant topping the leaderboard in the United States: EG.5.

Nationally, EG.5 is causing about 17% of new Covid-19 cases in the country, compared with 16% for the next most common lineage, XBB.1.16, according to the latest estimates from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

EG may sound like a whole new flavour of the virus, but it’s not; it’s a spinoff of the XBB recombinant strain of the Omicron family. And

it represents another incremental tweak to the virus rather than a major evolutionary leap like the original Omicron strain.

Compared with its parent XBB.1.9.2, it has one extra mutation to its spike, at position 465. This mutation has appeared in other coronavirus variants before. Scientists aren’t sure exactly what new tricks it enables the virus to do, but variant hunters are paying attention because many of the new XBB

descendants have adopted it. The 465 mutation is present in about 35% of coronavirus sequences reported worldwide, including another that’s rising in prevalence in the Northeast, FL.1.5.1, suggesting that it is conveying some kind of evolutionary advantage over previous versions.

EG.5 also now has its own offshoot, EG.5.1, that adds a second mutation to the spike. That one is also spreading rapidly. (CNN)

Science & Technology

Amazon deal lacks concrete measures, say climate activists

The eight countries that share the Amazon basin have fallen short of an agreed goal to end deforestation.

Delegates from the countries are meeting in the Brazilian city of Belém for a two-day summit on the issue.

A joint declaration on Tuesday created an alliance to combat deforestation, but left each country to pursue its own conservation goals.

Climate activists said the deal lacked concrete measures at a time “when the planet is melting”.

“Temperature records are broken every day, it’s not possible that under those circumstances, the eight presidents of the Amazon nations can’t include a line in the declaration stating, in bold letters, that deforestation needs to be zero, that it won’t be tolerated any more,” Márcio Astrini of the Climate Observatory group said.

Around 60% of the Amazon, the largest rainforest in the world, lies in Brazil. The other countries represented at the gathering are Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela.

Preserving the Amazon is a central part of efforts to tackle climate change and ahead of the summit, its host, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, had called for a common goal of ending deforestation by 2030.

Brazil has already adopted

Demonstrators, including indigenous people from Amazon countries, marched in Belém on Tuesday as the summit began

the policy but hopes for it to be adopted jointly by all the eight nations gathered in Belém were dashed on Tuesday.

Mr Astrini said the declaration lacked “something more forceful”.

Haug Larsen of the Rainforest Foundation Norway also bemoaned the fact that a commitment to zero deforestation, the “guiding star for the agreement”, had not been achieved.

But he welcomed an agreement by the eight nations to work together to combat illegal activities

in the Amazon, which he said had been allowed to “rage freely”, particularly in the border areas.

He said concrete plans had been made to co-ordinate air space surveillance and exchange information to combat illegal mining and logging.

If properly implemented, the agreement would be “a giant leap in the right direction”, he concluded.

Brazil’s President Lula said in his opening speech that action had “never been so urgent”.

“The challenges of our era,

and the opportunities arising from them, demand we act in unison”.

Deforestation in Brazil has fallen dramatically since Lula won the presidency from predecessor Jair Bolsonaro, who favoured development over conservation, but thousands of square kilometres continue to be lost each year.

The joint statement, named the Belém declaration, said the new alliance would aim to “prevent the Amazon from reaching a point of no return”.

It also included commitments to enhance co-operation on issues like water management, health, sustainable development and common negotiating positions at global climate summits.

But there have been differences in opinion in some areas.

Colombia’s President, Gustavo Petro, for example, wants other countries to match his pledge to ban new oil exploration, while Brazil is considering exploring new areas at the mouth of the Amazon river.

Despite the differences, the gathering has undoubtedly given this region a voice when it comes to combatting climate change, and is being viewed as a precursor to the 2025 UN Climate Change conference, which will also be held in Belém.

The summit opened on the same day that the European Union’s climate change panel confirmed that July had been the hottest month on record globally.

The billions of trees that make up the Amazon hold vast amounts of carbon, accumulated over centuries, and every year their leaves continue to absorb carbon dioxide that would otherwise remain in the atmosphere and contribute to the rise in global temperatures.

The world has already warmed by about 1.1C since the industrial era began and temperatures will keep rising unless governments around the world make steep cuts to emissions. (BBC)

Women who drink sugar-sweetened beverages every day are at greater risk of developing liver cancer and chronic liver disease, according to international researchers led by Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Massachusetts.

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open included nearly 100,000 postmenopausal women from the Women’s Health Initiative study.

Participants reported their usual soft drink, fruit drink consumption – not including fruit juice – and then reported artificially sweetened beverage consumption after three years. They were followed for a median of more than two decades.

Researchers looked at selfreported liver cancer incidence and death due to chronic liver disease,

including fibrosis, cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis – which were further verified by medical records or the National Death Index.

Final analyses – including 98,786 postmenopausal women – found 6.8% of women who consumed one or more sugar-sweetened beverages every day had an 85% higher risk of liver cancer and a 68% higher risk of chronic liver disease mortality compared with those who had fewer than three sugar-sweetened beverages per month.

However, the authors of the study noted that the study was observational and causality cannot be inferred. They relied on selfreported responses regarding intake, sugar content and outcomes.

The researchers said more studies are necessary to validate this

The research found that 6.8% of women who consumed one or more sugarsweetened beverages every day had an 85% higher risk of liver cancer

risk association and determine why sugary drinks appeared to increase the risk of liver cancer and disease, as well as to make clear the potential mechanisms by integrating genetics, preclinical and experimental studies and -omics data.

The hospital noted in a release

that approximately 65% of adults in the U.S. consume sugar-sweetened beverages daily.

“To our knowledge, this is the first study to report an association between sugar sweetened beverage intake and chronic liver disease mortality,” first author Longgang

Zhao, of the Brigham’s Channing Division of Network Medicine, said in a statement. “Our findings, if confirmed, may pave the way to a public health strategy to reduce risk of liver disease based on data from a large and geographically diverse cohort.” (Foxnews)

Women drinking sugarsweetened beverages have increased liver cancer

Sports International

Manchester City: Pep Guardiola says repeating Treble success will be ‘impossible’

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says it will be “impossible” for his side to repeat last season’s Treble success.

Sacramento Republic signs 13 y/o Da’vian Kimbrough

Sacramento Republic announced on Wednesday that it had signed 13-year-old Da’vian Kimbrough to a professional contract, making him the youngest professional athlete in US team sports history.

Kimbrough signed the contract with the team in the USL Championship – the second-tier of US soccer – aged 13 years, five months and 13 days.

“Da’vian’s journey with Republic FC is just beginning. He is a remarkable talent who has committed to his dream of becoming an elite player, from competing with players in older age groups, thriving at top competitions, to stepping on to the first team training grounds,” Sacramento Republic’s president and general manager Todd Dunivant said in a press release.

“We are honored that the Kimbrough family and Da’vian have chosen Republic FC to support his professional pathway, and we look forward to taking the next steps together.”

Kimbrough joined the team’s academy set-up in 2021 aged 11, scoring 27 goals in 31 matches as he spearheaded a team constructed of players a year older than himself.

In his debut season in the team’s youth academy, he played a key role in the Republic’s under-13 team, earning a countrywide-best

record of 30 wins and one loss, including 27 straight wins to begin the season.

With the under-14 team the following year, Kimbrough helped the squad to finish first in its MLS Next division – Major League Soccer’s youth league – as the Republic outscored opponents 148-22. He finished with 61 goals in 81 appearances in two seasons of MLS Next action.

“A young player’s path is never the same as the person seated next to them. Da’vian has shown tremendous focus, commitment and dedication, as well as a willingness to embrace the challenging road ahead of him,” Republic head coach Mark Briggs said.

“Over the last two years, he has demonstrated his tremendous potential, and our goal is to continue to support and help him grow as a player and person.”

The team announced that Kimbrough will be added to the first team squad and will be eligible for Sacramento team games in the USL Championship immediately, while also continuing “his development as one of the team’s high potential players in the academy.”

This means that Kimbrough could make his debut on Saturday against the Birmingham Legion. (CNN)

City finished 2022-23 with a hat-trick of major trophies and begin this year’s Premier League campaign against newly promoted Burnley on Friday.

“It is once in a lifetime,” Guardiola said. “It will not be possible to do what we did last season.”

City are bidding to be the first team in history to win four successive English top-flight titles.

But Guardiola said winning the league, Champions League and FA Cup again would be too difficult.

“We climbed the highest

mountain last season, but in the last two days we came down from it and now we start again,” he said.

“Everyone has the same intention and there will be a lot of difficulties to climb the mountain as high as possible. Our football, our level, our mentality will dictate how the season will be.”

City will be bolstered by new signings Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic when they come up against former captain Vincent Kompany’s Burnley at Turf Moor.

Guardiola said both players were “ready” and could be involved in the opening match of the season while uncertainty remains around the City futures of defender Kyle

Walker and winger Cole Palmer. The City boss said the club “wish” Walker stays and he does not know what will happen with 21-year-old Palmer, who has been linked with a move to West Ham. “[Palmer is] with us. What will happen, I don’t know,” said Guardiola. “I understand he wants to be more active than the previous season but Riyad [Mahrez] is gone, there is one more place there. We will see.”

In his news conference on Thursday, Guardiola would not comment on West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta, who has been linked with the club this week.

PGA Tour: FedEx Cup returns to 36-event season and a record $25m for play-off winner

The PGA Tour says the FedEx Cup will return to a 36-event season in 2024 and the play-off champion will receive a record $25m (£19.5m) bonus.

The season will tee off in January and conclude in August, with 70 players advancing to the play-offs.

In June, the PGA Tour and DP World Tour agreed to a shock merger with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund [PIF]. However, the framework of the agreement with LIV Golf, which is funded by the PIF, remains unresolved.

The $25m bonus is an increase from the $18m (£14m) that will be paid out to this year’s FedEx Cup champion.

In 2022, Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy became the first player to win the FedEx Cup three times after a remarkable last day at the

Justin Thomas finished in a tie for 12th at the Wyndham Championship and will not take part in the 2023 play-offs that start with the St. Jude Championship on Thursday

PGA Tour’s Tour Championship. Three play-off tournaments culminating with the 30-player Tour Championship at East Lake in Atlanta, Georgia will determine the winner.

Jon Rahm is on top of the leaderboard heading into the 2023

play-offs which begin on Thursday, but Justin Thomas suffered heartbreak on the final hole at the Wyndham Championship to miss out on a play-off spot by one shot.

The 2024 season, which begins with The Sentry in Hawaii, will also feature eight “signature” events with a limited field.

Those include three playerhosted invitationals - The Genesis Invitational, Arnold Palmer Invitational and Memorialwhich will have a 36-hole cut and increased prize money.

The other five - The Sentry, AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, RBC Heritage, Wells Fargo Championship, and Travelers Championship - will have no cut.

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said the new schedule will offer fans the chance to see top players competing against each other more regularly. (BBC)

Sports International

Fifa Women’s World Cup: How quarter-finalists shape up

With tension, great goals and penalty shootout wins, the first stage of the Fifa Women’s World Cup knock-outs delivered and there’s no doubt more drama to come as we head into the quarterfinals.

European champions England overcame Nigeria on penalties to progress and they face Colombia in the last eight on Saturday, 12 August.

Also aiming to reach the semifinals are co-hosts Australia and former champions Japan, while France and Spain are both looking strong as they aim to win the tournament for the first time.

Here’s how all eight teams are shaping up.

AUSTRALIA

Quarter-final opponents: France

(Saturday, 12 August, 08:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Hayley Raso (three goals)

The World Cup co-hosts are looking to make history by progressing beyond the quarterfinals for the first time, and they’ve been looking stronger as the tournament has gone on.

Australia followed up an eyecatching 4-0 win against Canada in their final group game with a comfortable 2-0 victory against Denmark.

The big boost for them as they head deeper into the tournament is the return to fitness of star player Sam Kerr, who played her first minutes of the World Cup when she came on as a second-half substitute against Denmark.

Former England and Arsenal defender Alex Scott on BBC One: “Australia have the momentum, and there are plenty of positives to take from that game [against Denmark].

“The main one is that Sam Kerr got minutes ahead of the next game.”

Key stat: Australia have kept a clean sheet in consecutive Fifa Women’s World Cup matches for the first time, after 30 games in the competition. They have kept more clean sheets at this tournament (three) than they had managed across their previous seven World Cups combined (two in 26 games).

COLOMBIA

Quarter-final opponents: England

(Saturday, 12 August, 11:30 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Linda Caicedo, Catalina Usme (both two goals)

The group stage was marked by the rise of the underdogs as unfancied teams claimed unexpected results against traditional World Cup heavyweights.

Colombia have been a surprise package, beating Germany and

South Korea during the group stage and overcoming Jamaica in the last 16.

This is the furthest they have been at a Women’s World Cup - and they face a tough test against England, but their mix of impressive youth and experience means they cannot be underestimated.

Former England defender Gilly Flaherty on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra: “I think England need to be very wary of Mayra Ramirez and Linda Caicedo. They are two top players.

“In general, Colombia are very physical and they aren’t afraid to get their foot stuck in.”

Key stat: No less than 75% of Colombia’s overall wins at the Fifa Women’s World Cup have come at this tournament (three out of four). Prior to the 2023 tournament, Colombia had won just one of their seven games in the competition (2011 and 2015 - two draws and four defeats).

ENGLAND

Quarter-final opponents: Colombia (Saturday, 12 August, 11:30 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Lauren James (three goals)

England are looking to build on their European Championship triumph last year by winning the Women’s World Cup for the first time.

The Lionesses improved after a slow start to the tournament, thrashing China 6-1 in their final group game, but they were far from their best as they scraped past Nigeria in the last 16.

They did come out on top in a penalty shootout to win that game, so that will give them confidence for similar situations going forward, but lost three-goal top scorer Lauren James to suspension after she was sent off.

Keira Walsh returns, however,

and that will boost England’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.

Anita Asante, former England defender, on BBC Radio 5 Live: “England are very lucky to have progressed to the quarter-finals and they definitely need to step up performances if they want to get all the way to a final.”

Key stat: England have had 71 separate sequences of 10 or more passes at this year’s Fifa Women’s World Cup, more than any other side.

FRANCE

Quarter-final opponents: Australia (Saturday, 12 August, 08:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Kadidiatou Diani (four goals) Could this finally be France’s year?

They’ve often had the quality but their best result so far is a fourth-place finish in 2011.

The quarter-finals are as far as they’ve got in each of the past two Women’s World Cups but they are looking strong under Herve Renard at this tournament.

They are unbeaten so far, finishing top of Group F with a draw and two wins - beating Brazil - and they thrashed Morocco 4-0 in the last 16.

Anita Asante, former England defender, on BBC One: “France have shown that they have developed relationships within this tournament, and rhythm in their play.”

Key stat: France allow just 5.3 opposition passes on average for each defensive intervention they make, the lowest figure of any of the remaining eight sides.

JAPAN

Quarter-final opponent: Sweden (Friday, 11 August, 08:30 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Hinata Miyazawa (five goals)

tournament highs.

SPAIN

Quarter-final opponent: Netherlands (Friday, 11 August, 02:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Aitana Bonmati, Jennifer Hermoso, Alba Redondo (three goals)

Spain got their Women’s World Cup campaign off to a flyer with 3-0 and 5-0 wins against Costa Rica and Zambia respectively but a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Japan served as a bit of a reality check for the Spanish.

They responded to that final group game loss by thumping Switzerland 5-1 and with two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas getting back to full fitness, they will undoubtedly give the Netherlands plenty to think about in what promises to be one of the standout games of the quarter-finals.

Japan won the Women’s World Cup in 2011 and went close to replicating that four years later, but finished as runners-up.

At the last World Cup, they went out in the last 16 but they are a team in form, with a 100% record so far at this tournament.

They have scored 14 goals, conceding just one, and in and Hinata Miyazawa they possess the World Cup’s leading scorer. On their showing so far, they are going to take some stopping.

Eniola Aluko, former England forward, on ITV1: “These Japan players are at the height of their confidence - the chemistry, the flow, the timing. They are really looking like an unbeatable teamhow do you stop them now?”

Key stat: Japan have made 49 passes that have broken the opposition’s defensive line at this tournament, the most of any side.

NETHERLANDS

Quarter-final opponent: Spain (Friday, 11 August, 02:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Jill Roord (four goals)

The Netherlands are bidding for their first Women’s World Cup trophy, and to go one better than they did four years ago, when they lost the USA in the final.

Unbeaten in their six games, they finished top of a group that contained the USA, before beating South Africa 2-0 in the last 16.

With only one goal conceded so far, the Netherlands’ impressive defence sets them up well against free-scoring Spain.

Key stat: The Netherlands have forced 85 turnovers high up the pitch, the most of any team in the competition, ahead of opponents Spain (74). Of those 85 high turnovers, 15 have resulted in a shot and three have resulted in a goal - both of which are also

Laura Georges, former France international, on BBC One: “Against Switzerland it was the Spain that we know - that like to keep the ball, move around, work together as a team.

“The difference between this Spain against Switzerland and the Spain we saw against Japan was that they were really precise with the ball, really accurate and really clinical in front of goal. That made the difference.”

Key stat: Spain have initiated their open play sequences at an average of 53 metres from their own goal at the Women’s World Cup, the highest up the pitch of any team.

SWEDEN

Quarter-final opponents: Japan (Friday, 11 August, 08:30 BST) World Cup 2023 top scorer: Amanda Ilestedt (three goals)

The USA may not have been at their best at this Women’s World Cup but for Sweden to see off the world number one team and defending champions in the last 16 is a very eye-catching result.

They certainly rode their luck at times but Zecira Musovic produced some hugely impressive saves that saw her named the player of the match, and she could be the difference once again if Sweden are to overcome Japan.

Sweden beat England at the 2019 World Cup to finish third, and they will be hoping to reach the final this time.

Fran Kirby, England forward, on ITV1: “I don’t think Sweden deserved it [to beat the USA], they didn’t create anything and the USA were the better team. But ultimately it’s about winning.”

Key stat: Sweden have scored three goals from corners where the first contact was a goal - no other team has scored more than one goal in this manner. (BBC)

Sports International

Webb: Chief refereeing officer ‘determined’ officials don’t ‘ignore’ bad behaviour

Referees’ chief Howard Webb says he is “determined” officials do not “turn a blind eye” to bad behaviour from players and coaches this season.

Last weekend saw the start of a bid to stop the sort of behaviour Webb said has been “managed” or “ignored” before.

Almost double the usual number of yellow cards were shown over the first weekend of the EFL season.

“I am determined this won’t be something you only see during the next few days and weeks,” said Webb.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was booked for waving an imaginary yellow card during the Community Shield win over Manchester City following a tackle by Rodri, while West Brom manager Carlos Corberan has been charged by the FA after being sent off in his side’s opening day defeat at Blackburn.

Players were also booked for kicking the ball away amid a clampdown on time wasting.

Webb, the chief refereeing officer for officials’ body PGMOL, told BBC Sport: “People will have to understand that some behaviours that previously would have been managed or ignored will no longer be managed or ignored.

“It is important our officials recognise, understand and differentiate between emotion and passion, but for too long officials

have not been able to make that differentiation too well or they have turned a blind eye to certain things, maybe thinking it was the best way to deal with it, not make a fuss and not draw attention to what might have been perceived as an error on the field.

“But the power of example is so strong and all the numbers are travelling in the wrong direction around what is happening in the

game.

“We are seeing grassroots officials having a bad experience too often. This has to change in our sport. We are determined collectively in our game to do this.”

The authorities’ belief is that if bad behaviour at the elite end is not tolerated, the message will filter down to the grassroots levels, where there is an acute shortage of officials.

TEAMS ‘AWARE’ OF TIME WASTING DIRECTIVE

Matches at both the men’s World Cup in Qatar last year and the current Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand have included long periods of time added on because of time wasting.

Football’s lawmakers, the International Football Association Board (Ifab), announced its wish in January to “create fairer

conditions for both teams in terms of the amount of time available in a match” by adding the exact time taken for certain events - like goals and substitutions - rather than the previous “nominal” amount.

All 35 matches on the opening weekend of the EFL featured at least eight additional minutes of action and several 15:00 BST kickoffs on Saturday finished way after 17:00.

But while the new directive around time wasting has the support of many fans in the game, those at the sharp end have a different view.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola complained there had been no consultation over the implementation of the strategy, which is likely to see 100 minute matches becoming routine.

Evidently, being consulted is different to being informed and Webb is adamant all clubs were aware of what was coming.

“Ifab is the organisation that ratifies changes and there is a consultation process that goes into that,” he said. “Obviously, when something is ratified it comes our way to deliver.

“We have presented and laid out to a range of groups the way we are going to be applying this. By the end of this week I will have done at least 17 pre-season briefings. People are aware what is coming.” (BBC)

Bayern Munich agree deal in principle with Tottenham for striker Kane

Bayern Munich and Tottenham have agreed a deal in principle for England captain Harry Kane worth more than 100m euros (£86.4m).

Kane, 30, has one year left on his contract with Spurs and must now make a decision about whether or not to leave.

The forward is Tottenham’s alltime top scorer with 280 goals in 435 appearances.

Kane was linked with Manchester United earlier this summer before Bayern made him their main target.

The striker’s future in London has been uncertain for several seasons while a number of Bayern bids were rejected earlier this summer.

Most recently, Spurs turned down an offer on Monday and the Bundesliga champions suggested on that occasion an unsuccessful bid would force them to move on to other targets.

Tottenham chairman Daniel

Levy has repelled interest in Kane numerous times over the years, including in 2021 when Premier League champions Manchester City tried to sign the striker.

It was also unclear whether Levy would have been willing to sell Kane to another Premier League team, suggesting earlier this year he would not do business with either of the Manchester clubs.

But with Kane unwilling to sign a new deal with Spurs, it seems Levy has decided selling now is the best option for the club rather than losing him for free next year.

Kane, who came through Spurs’ academy, has played for the club during pre-season while negotiations with Bayern took place, with his last appearance coming against Shakhtar Donetsk on Sunday.

New Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou had promised to sell Kane his “vision” for the club following his appointment this

Kane, 30, has one year left on his contract with Spurs and must now make a decision about whether or not to leave

summer, saying he wanted the striker to stay in north London.

Kane has won the Premier League Golden Boot three timesin 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2020-21since making his debut for the club in 2012.

With 213 goals from 320

Premier League games, Kane needs just 48 more to break Alan Shearer’s scoring record.

Yet England’s all-time leading scorer - with 58 international goals - has never won a major trophy with club or country.

Bayern, on the other hand, are

regular silverware winners in Germany.

Thomas Tuchel’s side claimed their 33rd Bundesliga title last season - an 11th in a row - and have won the Champions League six times and German Cup on 20 occasions. (BBC)

Sports National

TCI beat BVI, draws with Dominica in CONCACAF Boys’ U15 Championships

THE Turks and Caicos Islands Boys’ U15 team ended on top of Group C in their battle of the CONCACAF Boys’ U15 Championships in the Dominican Republic.

The side drew their opening

clash against Dominica 1-1 before making the necessary adjustments to beat the BVI 5-0.

The TCIFA said that the side showed “competitive spirit” and displayed their talent.

Ritchie and Singh represent TCI at CONCACAF Youth Football Summit

The TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie and Developmental Coach Damion Singh represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at the 2023 CONCACAF Youth Football Summit in the Dominican Republic.

The Summit focused on developing youth football and creating the right atmosphere for continuous growth.

According to information from the FA, “The TCIFA is motivated by the growth of our technical centre, knowledge, and athletic progression of our athletes. This summit has given

us newer insights into tools we could possibly implement to increase the competitiveness of our member association by way of presenting information on football development and technical strategies.”

It added that its members are excited to be a part of the initiative as the FA aims to “learn and grow within our organisation to increase our competitiveness”.

The presentation was led by Andre Waugh, CONCACAF Caribbean Development Manager and Victor Estrada, Senior Development Manager for Central America.

Lauren

James: England forward given two-game Women’s World Cup ban after red card

England forward Lauren James has been given a two-match ban by Fifa for her red card in the Women’s World Cup game with Nigeria.

James, 21, was sent off for stamping on the back of Michelle Alozie in the last 16-tie, which England won on penalties.

The dismissal came with an automatic one-game ban which Fifa has increased, meaning she will miss the semi-final if England get there.

The Lionesses face Colombia in the quarter-finals on Saturday

(11:30 BST).

James is England’s top scorer in the tournament, having scored three goals, as well as assisting three more, in the group stages.

The Chelsea forward apologised to Alozie on social media after the incident and promised to learn from her mistake.

After the game, England boss Sarina Wiegman said: “She is inexperienced on this stage and in a split-second lost her emotions. It isn’t something she did on purpose. She apologised and felt really bad.

Sports National

Police and Realest to clash in Scott’s Car Rental and Sales Over-35 Masters League final

Realest FC and Police FC will clash in the final of the Scott’s Car Rental and Sales Over-35 Masters League after conflicting wins in the competition’s semi-finals last weekend.

Realest were able to get past the bottom-of-the-table Teachers 3-1, while it took penalties to decide the faith of the Police team in their clash against Beaches FC.

In the first semi-final, the top-ofthe-table Realest came from a goal down to win 3-1.

Tom Greenfield had carried the side ahead in the 15th minute before Diego Albert evened the game in the 23rd minute.

Albert completed his brace in the 46th minute before Ganel Joseph iced the victory with a goal in 50 + two minutes.

Meanwhile, Police versus Beaches proved to be a nail-biter with Kemoy Piper opening the scoring in the 25th minute for the eventual winners, but Damion Dunkley answered five minutes

later and then carried Beaches ahead 2-1 in the 43rd minute.

Sabuton John, however, answered with a penalty in the 45th minute of play, which drew the game even.

John would again take to the penalty line and score, as did Rodne Etienne and Kemoy Piper, which resulted in a 3-2 penalty finish.

Beaches’ scorers included Jameson Petitfrere and Andre Luccess.