OSWALD SKIPPINGS AT LARGE PDM LEADER
The new PDM Team of Visionaries, have been busy not just doing some necessary housekeeping, but attending to other necessary obligations which my deputy would gladly inform you of.
First of all, I would like to welcome the new additions to our team of visionaries that help up make up our at large team.
This evening I would just like to touch some of the pressing issues at hand and would begin with VAT.
VAT
I take this opportunity to categorically state that the PDM's Policy on vat is consistent with that of the Private Sector business men and women of this country, the Chamber of Commerce, and the man on the street. That stance is a resounding, unwavering NO TO VAT.
We have signed on with the Anti-Vat Group and I have made a press release consistent with this stance, and a formal party Position Paper has been prepared and would be released shortly.
It is a complicated, onerous and expensive Tax System that has already proven to be economically counter productive to the small Island states in the Caribbean that has already implemented it. It is in fact even more unsuited for our service economy and the decision to implemented it, has not been influenced by the general public majority opinion, now has it been influenced by the peculiar dynamics of our economy in the TCI.
Our position is that the UK cease and desist in moving this initiative forward, and leave any further movement of this to a democratically elected government that would give it the kind of airing and in depth study that is required before any further progression of this VAT.
HEALTH
Inter-health Canada inclusive of the two hospitals, is tantamount to one huge and elaborate fraudulent scheme that appears to be deliberately and disingenuously designed to bilk the public and the TCI government out of tens of millions of dollars annually.
Our people are suffering and dying at a noticeably increased rate, because of the lack of access to the level of health care necessary to keep them alive and well.
So in spite of Inter-Health Canada receiving over $80 Million annually from the coffers of our suffering people, through being heavily taxed by NHIB, and from the government's treasury, our health care options have decreased and the level of our health care has dropped. Therefore Turks and Caicos people are not getting the bang for their buck, in other words, we are not getting value for money.
The Solution!
A PDM administration will relieve our people of this legally convoluted, onerous financial scheme, by either taking legal action to unravel the corruption or the worst case scenario, get rid of our legally binding commitment by paying it off , which require less than what we currently pay for two years.
STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY
It is obvious that the British economic and development policies are not in tune nor in tandem with the dynamics of an Island economy, much less a service economy such as our here in the Turks and Caicos.
For example, while under normal circumstances, one may consider some major policy shifts in regards to offering incentives to "would be" developers in Providenciales, the same could not be true in the lesser developed Islands.
As a matter of fact, if we are going to remain competitive in this investment climate in the region, it is obvious that some incentives may have to be offered in some instances even in Providenciales until we can regain our strong economic footing.
Additionally, it is not in the least practical nor acceptable that an interim administration put in place development policies for an incoming democratically elected government.
These sentiments were in fact made known to the acting governor in a recent meeting between him, the Permanent secretaries and the new PDM leadership.
This the acting governor concurred with and stated that it was merely an exercise to establish some form of guideline that an incoming administration may or may not find acceptable.
POLICY MAKING
Another flawed policy that was making the islands circuit, was that Policy would be made by the Permanent Secretaries and ministers would be obligated to work in accordance with those policies.
Any civilized person knows that, that approach is in effect, in reverse.
The deputy governor also agreed with me that Policy making would be the responsibility of the elected government and Permanent Secretaries would be expected to work along with ministers to carry out those policies.
THE TWENTY EIGHT STORY PROPOSED HOTEL DEVELOPMENT This proposed development project is attractive to many and that is understood in a depressed economy such as ours, where jobs are as scarce as gold and many people need to be put to work as soon as possible. Besides, it's a great project overall.
However responsible political leaders have to exercise a sense of responsibility, even if it's popular to go with a flow. This is not the sort of thing that one should use as leverage simply to gain votes.
Because of the policy issues involved, such as the height of the buildings, which is four times higher than the highest existing building in Grace Bay, this is going to involve a major development policy change.
In pursuing this change, consideration is going to have to be given to both the negative and the positive effects this major change is going to have on the existing tourism developments in the area.
Consideration must also be given as to the possible effects such a develop may have on our existing low profile Grace Bay Shoreline that has been a subtle self-selling point.
Therefore it is too complicated an issue to be undertaken by the interim administration and elections being just three months away, it is something that an elected government should take under its wings for consideration.
One of the factors that may be easier to adopt is the acceptance of such building heights in some location other than Grace Bay.
ECONOMY
Uncontrollable factors such as, the unstable world economies, the escalating threat of terrorist activities globally, the global increase in national disasters, the escalating military tension between nations which threatens the availability and shipping of essential goods such as fuel and foodstuffs, and which also threatens the movement of passengers to fuel our tourists based economy, sends a strong signal that can no longer be ignored, that is, that our economy, our national security and our ability to merely survive as a people, is far too vulnerable.
If we want to once again become a first world country, then we not only have to consider these issues, but we have to take deliberate steps to mitigate these distressing factors.
Furthermore, our economy is currently top heavy with taxation and is far too dependent not only on tourism as an industry, but tourism in its singularity aspect which we now embrace. This must change.
If we want to be in the major leagues, then we've got to stop playing governmental softball and graduate to baseball, we as a government and people must demonstrate our worthiness of being in the major league by showing that we can not only pitch fast ball.
We must develop an economy that is more insulated against these unavoidable external forces.
While there has been over the past three years and even during the latest PNP administration, vigorous efforts to widen the franchise, a PDM government's focus would be to broaden our economic base, thereby diversifying our economy to make it more vibrant, more resilient and more sustainable over the long haul.
OBAMA IMPORT TAX
This proposed US import tax on Turks and Caicos Goods, is a direct blow to our already fragile and ailing economy.
In fact, it is a direct blow to our fishing industry which affects mostly Providenciales and South Caicos but especially South Caicos where fishing accounts for nearly all industrial and economic activity.
This is an issue that requires a strong, experienced and knowledgeable government to effectively deal with this forthwith.
In the first instance, it is obvious that the financial data used to justify this initiative is totally erroneous.
Even if the data was factual, the overall economic, industrial and unemployment plight of the Turks and Caicos could not handle the imposition of this tax.
A PDM government would act swiftly to present our case to the US Government to have this decision rescinded forthwith in an effort to protect our already fragile fishing industry and our struggling fishermen.
The Governor
When we met with the deputy governor about two weeks ago, I requested a hard copy of the budget and I got it. But most importantly, I requested a copy of the Hospital Agreement, I didn't get it, he said I needed to request it from the substantive Governor.
So this morning I met with his Excellency the governor briefly and arranged for him to meet my team:
I also requested a copy of the Hospital agreements which the governor promised to look into.
Additionally, I enquired as to provision being made for a budget that caters to a Ministerial Government that would be installed after November 9th of this year.
It was also mentioned that there needs to be ample preparations made in advance to facilitate a smooth turnover, equipping ministers with the backup manpower, office space and finances that we will require to function effectively and efficiently as a government
DEPUTY LEADER OF PDM-SHARLENE CARTWRIGHT FOR AT LARGE SEAT
Having assumed Office only 23 days ago, we have as a team been busying ourselves in preparing to become the next Elected Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
We have of course put in place internal structures that will secure a well - oiled political machinery. Our supporters are enthused and ready to work.
We have otherwise been involved in a number of important meetings and dialogues. These meetings were meant to be introductory and fact finding so as to chart the road ahead.
One of these important Meetings was held in Grand Turk on July 11, 2012. The Leader and Deputy Leader together with other Members of the Executive attended a Meeting led by Patrick Boyle, Acting Governor and substantive holder of the post of CEO. This Meeting saw an introduction of Senior TCIG Executive and Senior Executive Members of the PDM Party. Both bodies shared their expectation and agreed to remain cordial and respectful to each other’s roles. PDM Leadership insisted that there should be clear, concise and written Guidelines that will govern the relationship of the elected Government and the TCI Senior Executive. We believe that it is important that we understand that elected Government makes policy and that Civil Servants are to offer guidance whilst carrying out the policy of the elected Government.
This is a first of a series of Meetings that will allow the Party Officials to gain greater insight into developments that may have occurred during the Interim Administration. The Party will hold separate Meetings with individual Ministries going forward and hope to be in a better positioned for a smooth transitioning into elected Office.
We were glad for this opportunity to make our expectations clear and to ready ourselves to take over the reins so that we can be ready from day one for full governance.
In a separate, the PDM Executive has also met together with the PNP to discuss a joint proposal to be presented to the Interim Administration on the most recent draft of legislation that will govern financing of Political Parties now styled “Political Activities Ordinance. The PDM remains committed to meeting with persons and organizations where it is in the best interest of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
We have since held a bi lateral Meeting on July 13, 2012 with the Elections Supervisor Mr Dudley Lewis and the Government Strategist, Mr Philip Rushbrook. Both Parties have enjoyed a consensus on most of the more salient issues and have jointly prepared a Proposal for Presentation to the Interim Administration.
Some of our concerns relates to the treatment of loans to Political Parties, the amounts and capping of donations, the treatment of personal expenses, the role of the Integrity Commission as oppose to an Elections Commissions, the release of a Notice dated July 6, 2012 from the Governor’s Office on the governance of campaign finances in the absence of legislative authority, donations from companies and the issue of when declarations will be made.
We have today begun talks with representatives of the Westminister Foundation for Democracy to further discuss these Proposals as well as future relationships with the WFD.
Our Leader leaves for the UK on Wednesday in response to an Invitation from HMG to attend the Olympics Opening. During this visit he will meet with UK Ministers of Government and is expected to return home on August 1, 2012.
We can assure you that you can come to expect this level of transparency and accountability from a PDM Administration.
Before our leader addresses you further, I wish to welcome officially on board, the remaining members of the Fantastic 5:
- Hon Josephine Connolly brings a wealth of private sector experience and a history of successful businesses. A visionaire and a hard worker. Much needed at this time.
- Hon Samuel Harvey brings much needed experience in Government functioning as we believe that it is important that there are persons who can assist younger representatives. A former Minister of Works, he has overseen infrastructural development in these Islands and we are being handed down a country in dire need of grave attention in this area.
- Hon Derek Taylor provides a wealth of government experience and a history of proven leadership in financially challenging times similar to that that exists now – huge national debt and on the heel of a redundancy exercise. His Chairmanship of OCTA lends to a continuation of strong relations in the Region and much needed support.
I say welcome and I look forward to us pooling together and sailing this ship into safe harbor and not recklessly full steam ahead but steady as she goes with a clear path that will secure justice, prosperity and equality for all.
I believe that the PDM is the right direction. We are the right Party, for the right reason for the right time. You can trust us for sober, mature and proven leadership. You can rest assured that if it isn’t good for the Turks and Caicos Islands, then we will not have it.
PDM is the right direction. May God bless us all.
CONTRIBUTION TO LEADER’S ADDRESS
Over the past weeks, we have prepared and issued a number of Press Statements and are currently in the process of the finalizing a few positions that must be taken.
We have issued a Statement on the proposed 28 Story Development and a Position on VAT. Within a few days we will release a Statement on the removal of the TCI from the exemption list on Export Taxes to the USA and we will also make a submission to the Boundaries Commission.
We as a Party have identified our priority areas and will present our full Platform to you within short order.
We have heard the cry of our people for jobs and opportunities in this place called home. Our top priority must be get Turks and Caicos Islanders back to work. We will concentrate on Immigration and Labour in this regard.
We believe that new investment and fresh revenue must be sought and to this end, we will seek diligently new investment and will simultaneously review our country’s economy with a view to exploring new niches in our Financial Services Industry and of course in strengthening our Tourism product.
A growing nation must focus its attention on Education at all levels and we intend to put together comprehensive proposals in this regard. Healthcare is of major concern to the people of these Islands and we believe that if we are going to pay for healthcare to our financial strain, it must be accessible to all. A review of this system is a must going forward.
Other areas of priority will be:
1. Youth, Sports and Culture. Our youth need opportunities and we believe that a progressive government must channel resources in all of these areas.
2. Agriculture
3. Police and Law Enforcement and Crime
4. Cost of Living and Minimum Wage
5. Alternative sources of energy
6. Social Services – care of the elderly and juveniles
We can assure you that our Plans will be progressive and visionary and it will move these Islands in the right direction.
NEW COMER JOSEPHINE CONNOLLY JOINS AT LARGE PDM TICKET
Inaugural speech-Josephine Connolly
The African proverb says, “It takes a village…”For us here in the TCI, it takes a country…a country of united people. Our country needs us…all hands on deck. Ladies and gentlemen, I am here tonight to sign up for duty! A pleasant good evening to all…
I may be relatively new to some of you in the political arena, while others may have assumed that I was a member of the PNP. However, it is imperative that I publicly declare that I was never a member of the PNP or the PDM party in the previous election years. Tonight, I boldly stand here, extremely proud to inform you, the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, that I am a member of this great People’s Democratic Movement- the more capable party, which is determined to take this country out of the dilemma in which we have unfortunately found ourselves through no fault of the People’s Democratic Movement. I may be the new lady on the block as far as politics is concerned, but I know the agenda of the PDM Party is the best approach which is needed throughout the islands –from Salt Cay (my place of birth to Pine Cay where our workers all require proper representation). Ultimately, we are here to take our country forward.
I believe we have a unique opportunity to reshape politics in the islands. We have the opportunity for a new start and the PDM leadership team will deliver that new start. My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, this party, the People’s Party, wants the best for you; the party places you and your children’s interest first in all dimensions. Comrades it’s important that you know The PDM has evolved, and the metamorphosis process has taken place since the PDM party is now prepared, and is more than willing to work and move forward to include all Turks and Caicos Islanders! Let me stress, the People’s Democratic Party is inclusive: young and old; women and men. So, here I stand! I pledge to work with the great PDM Party to ensure our children’s future is secure.
I will be focusing on issues and ideas that will help develop the Turks and Caicos Islands and provide realistic and ideal opportunities to the citizens of these islands. I recognize that this is what the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a whole are interested in. and that is what we …. The People’s Party will deliver.
Fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, we are conscious, family oriented, unified, educated people living in a small country. We should be able to vote our representatives into office without bitterness and rancor. It is right that people should support the party of their choice, but we do not need families split or friends in conflict. We are too small to be constantly separating ourselves with false labels: PDM vs. PNP; Caicos vs. Grand Turk; Black vs. White. In the end, we are all part of our beloved beautiful by nature and the success or failure of the Turks and Caicos Islands is in all of our hands. So, let’s work together as one people with a common goal and purpose which is to build and develop our country. I often hear the phrase ‘nation building’. Well, until we see all our citizens as worthy of concern and respect we will not have a nation to build.
Sir Robert Auld accused this country of political immaturity. Well, this political team, the People’s Party will ensure that that charge is never levied at this country ever again under its administration…
My fellow countrymen and women, God bless you, our nation and this PDM party. Goodbye.
Address of Samuel Harvey, PDM at Large Candidate
This evening, I say to you the people of the TCI I accepted this pre-nomination to join force with these courageous men and women, who find it necessary to come together, for one common goal, that is, to free our people!
I come bringing my technical, industrial hands on approach, offering experience and expertise, and with the same genuine committed passion I had for my people and my country during my previous tenure in office in the PDM Administration.
This expertise and experience I pledge to handover to the youth that will be a part of this PDM Administration, and propose to do that handing over after just one term in office serving my country and people. I am known in every island, because I have worked in the private sector in every Island, even in Parrot Cay, I have diligently served my people in every island while serving with the PDM. Why do I choose to run at large? All my life, so far I have served at large.
I may have been a constituency candidate, but I was never just a constituency representative, I was always a people’s person, easy to reach and eager to serve.
While I was a minister, I was one of the few persons on whom the people from every island called whenever they had a problem, or for representation, I always rose to the occasion and did nothing less than my very best. As a born again man of God I am more committed, more focused and more equipped to deal with this big mess and the complex problems that PNP and the British have put this country in.
Sitting around this table is the most dynamic team imaginable, of which I’m proud to be a part of, and we look forward to having more youth candidates at the constituency level joining this awesome team. It is an undeniable fact that the youth are the future of this nation and this PDM team has committed itself to that philosophy and committed itself to putting it into practice.
With my diverse background, knowing about construction and engineering, I took special interest in projects such as the Causeway between North and Middle Caicos, the Dock on North Caicos and the poorly constructed Leeward Highway. I pointed out that they were all being done wrong and that it was a total waste of the Government money particularly, as they were projects that I helped to put together, my assessment and prediction were proven right. However, as usual, the PDM will fix all that is broken. We are known for creating an environment to put our people back to work and bring development back to the Turks and Caicos Islands for the people.
I bring new hope, a message of healing, I want to assure our youths a safe and secure future. In this regard I am seeking your vote on November 9th. Thank you all, may God bless you all and our beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands.
THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC MOVMENT ANNOUNCES AT LARGE CANDIDATES
In recent meetings held over the last few days by the PDM's Candidates Committee and its National General Council, the Party has selected five candidates from a number of worthy applicants to contest the At Large or All Island constituency for the upcoming General Elections on November 9th of this year.
Party Leader Oswald Skippings says “That he is satisfied with the choices made for the At Large Candidates as they reflect a diversity of persons coming from throughout the islands with a variety of experience and leadership skills. These persons have a patriotic passion for their country and people. The Leader further stated that he is confident that it is one of the most awesome At Large teams conceivable and one that will bring home all five of the At Large seats in the upcoming General Elections.
The National Chairman, Mr. Lynden Hall says “that he is also well pleased and satisfy with the final five At large candidates as they are a true representation of the Turks and Caicos. He was well encouraged by the number of persons that applied to the PDM to run at LARGE and is further excited about having two strong women on the AT Large team. He knows without a doubt that the PDM has the best team and will win the general elections in 2012. The National Chairman say “ he also wishes to thank the other persons who were not selected to run At LARGE. He encourages them to participate in the constituency candidate’s selection once the boundary commission completes its assessment”
The names of the “At Large Candidates are:
- Mr. Oswald Skippings
- Mrs. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson
- Mr. Derek Taylor
- Mr. Samuel Harvey
- Mrs. Josephine Connolly
The PDM is currently receiving applications for the ten constituency candidates and already a number of applications have been received. The choosing of the ten constituency candidates will only be made after the Boundaries Commission has completed its work of setting the constituency boundaries
TODDLER DIES IN POOL TRAGEDY
RTC News has learnt that emergency services were called to an address on Cherokee Road, Providencialees, just before 9am on Sunday July 22nd, after a two-yar-old girl was discovered face down in the swimming pool. At the time the residence was being occupied by a family which had just arrived on July 21st, for a vacation.
Family members and paramedics administered CPR before the child was rushed to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre by ambulance for further treatment.
Sadly the toddler who was visiting with family from Canada was pronounced dead by doctors at 9.41am.
A police investigation is taking place although at this time there does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances.
"This is a truly shocking tragedy and at this terrible time our thoughts and prays are with the family affected”, an RTCI Police spokesman said.
"Due to the nature of the investigation we are unable to give any further details at this time.”
'Dark Knight' rises to earn US$160m
The Dark Knight Rises was on track to earn US$160 million, which would be a record for 2-D films, over the weekend following a mass shooting at a Colorado screening of the Batman film.
Citing box office insiders, The Hollywood Reporter, Los Angeles Times, New York Times and other media outlets reported Sunday that the latest Batman sequel earned US$160 to US$162 million.
That amount would best the US$158.4 million debut of The Dark Knight in 2008 and give Dark Knight Rises the third-highest domestic weekend opening ever after the 3-D films The Avengers with US$207.4 million and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2 with US$169.2 million.
Tickets for 3-D films cost a few more dollars than 2-D screenings, netting extra cash at the box office. Movies released in 3-D typically earn under half of their income in 3-D screenings, sometimes as little as a third.
Sony, Fox, Disney, Paramount, Universal and Lionsgate joined Dark Knight Rises distributor Warner Bros in publicly withholding their usual revenue reports out of respect for the victims and their families.
Shabba takes Int'l Night I
SHABBA Ranks came, saw and conquered International Night I of Reggae Sumfest at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay on Friday.
The Grammy-winning deejay made up for his 10-year absence from the local stage with a super-charged, hour-long set, reminding fans why he is regarded as one of dancehall's finest.
Charging on stage, he got the crowd fired-up with Winey Winey and X-Rated. Things got hotter when he did Mr Loverman as frenzied fans reached out to get a feel of their hero.
Shabba turned it up a notch when he invited singer Cherine Anderson on stage to perform Champion Lover and Twice My Age, two of his biggest hits.
Their sexually suggestive byplay drew gasps from some patrons but it just added to the excitement.
Shabba was honoured for his contribution to reggae and dancehall music by Summerfest Productions, promoters of Sumfest.
After thanking the organisers, he called his wife Michelle on stage to share in the moment.
"She is the reason for my peace of mind and tranquility. She mek mi look so good. Come to mi, baby" he said, as she joined him on stage.
Preceding Shabba's show-stopping performance was American singer Trey Songz. While he had a lot of the women screaming to songs such as Love Faces, Dive In, and We Can't Be Friends, he did not live up to his hyped billing.
The 'Jamaica 50' segment saw the 'greats' taking the stage and succeeded, with each act delivering enjoyable 10-minute sets.
Derrick Harriott, U-Roy, Leroy Sibbles, Leroy Smart, John Holt, the Mighty Diamonds, Pinchers and Yellow Man ensured there was never a dull moment.
Earlier, there were noteworthy performances from the Bonafide band, and emerging singer Nature, who had no problem connecting with his hometown.
It was all ladies after that, led by a scintillating performance from Tessanne Chin and strong showings from Sophia Brown and 14-year-old Bahamian artiste Angelique Sabrina. Tarrus Riley was also a hit.
Another highlight was the exciting 'Sumfest 20' fireworks which transformed the venue with a kaleidoscope of colours.
Also honoured was Irie FM disc jockey Elise Kelly, who was recognised for her contribution to Jamaican music and for being MC at Sumfest for 19 years.
R Kelly woos Sumfest patrons
PATRONS at Reggae Sumfest had to endure a near hour-long set change before seeing American Rhythm and Blues star R Kelly at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay Saturday night.
Everyone stood their ground, not wanting to give up their vantage point.
But after the set was complete and MC Francois St Juste announced that everything was ready, he said there was another hitch. The artiste was just getting into his caravan at the hotel to be escorted to the venue by police.
This did not go down well with the crowd who had to wait another 40 minutes before R Kelly appeared.
The moment he took centrestage, however, the crowd instantly embraced him.
"What's up, Jamaica?" R Kelly asked. The audience was then his for the taking.
So Sexy and Snake were his start-up songs before he exclaimed: "Let me get my sound right or I can't do this can't do this f**king show!"
Whatever the problem, he seemed to have worked it out before going into a medley of early hits such as Bump 'N' Grind, Sex In The Kitchen and Strip For You which drew deafening screams from women at the front.
Their enthusiastic response influenced him him to the edge of the stage, wooing the ladies as he shook one hand after another.
One female fan grabbed on to his shoes to which he commented, "Take my shoes off!" She was more than happy to oblige!
R Kelly continued with Slow Wine, You Remind Me, Seems Like You're Ready, When A Woman's Fed Up and the gospel smassh I Believe I Can Fly. He made on female patron's evening when she caught his sweat-drenched towel which he tossed to the crowd.
Following his performance, some of the fans made their way out of the venue. But many who stayed enjoyed the performance of Damian 'Junior Gong' Marley who took command with Set Up Shop, More Justice, Still Searching and Affairs of the Heart.
Bunny Wailer brought the curtains down on the 20th staging of the festival in fine style as he took the crowd down memory lane with One Love and Simmer Down, songs he did in the early 1960s with the Wailers.
Earlier, good performances came from Jedani, Q-Ban, Rain Seville, Conkarah and hometown boy AJ Brown who was making his first appearance on the Sumfest stage.
Protoje and Christopher Martin also gave strong performances.
--JA.OBSERVER
Usher's injured stepson dies
The stepson of the Grammy award-winning pop star Usher has died, two weeks after the child was critically injured in a boating accident.
Eleven-year-old Kile Glover is a son of Usher's ex-wife Tameka Foster.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Kile died Saturday morning at an Atlanta area hospital.
The boy was run over July 6 by a personal watercraft on Lake Lanier, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
He had been hospitalised with a major brain injury. Lake Lanier is about 40 miles northeast of Atlanta.
(AP-USA)