Curtly Richards – Page 39 – Gibraltar Insight

Gibraltar Defence Force Police Female Forum

4 years ago in Armed Forces by Curtly Richards

The Gibraltar Defence Police (GDP) Forum for Females (FFF) recently held a coffee morning. Guests at the event included HMGoG’s Minister for Equality Samantha Sacramento, Commissioner of Police Mr Ian McGrail, one of the partners from Hassans Mr Ian Felices and Commander British Forces Commander Tim Henry. In addition to GDP officers and staff, colleagues from the wider MOD community and from the Royal Gibraltar Police were also present.

The FFF was set up last year for women working across all areas of the GDP.

Alex Romero, Head of Business Support within the GDP and Chair of the FFF, explained that its purpose is to create a support mechanism to ensure that the workforce is more representative of the community that it serves, by working to increase the number of female employees within the GDP and Defence Guard Service (DGS) and the number of female employees at higher ranks in these areas. In addition, the Forum seeks to identify diversity and inclusion issues encountered within the GDP, provide mutual support and encouragement, ensure a level playing field in all areas of business and provide both internal and external networking experiences.

Speaking at the event the Minister for Equality said, “I am delighted to see that there has been such a positive outcome from the Department of Equality’s Women’s Mentorship Programme at this level. It is particularly important in sectors where women are significantly under-represented that a forum such as this exists to facilitate inclusion and the message that senior jobs can be undertaken by women. It is through fora such as this where professional futures are shaped. I wish to thank those who have led on setting up this forum and wish it every success.”

RG Insight Weekend

4 years ago in Armed Forces by Curtly Richards

The Royal Gibraltar Regiment held its first Insight Weekend of the year at Devil’s Tower Camp (DTC) and Buffadero Training Centre (BTC). The weekend was run over two days with an overnight stay to provide potential recruits with a better understanding of the Regiment, and what it could offer them.

The event started kicked off on the Friday when 26 potential recruits turned up at Devil’s Tower Camp. The group consisted of three females and 23 males, the youngest being 15 years and 8 months and the oldest being 42 years old.

Despite the weather all attendees enjoyed the weekend which included indoor activities and presentations as well as outdoor activities including a Night Stalk, a live shoot, a FIBUA Attack and paintball.

The common comment from those attending was that the weekend was interesting and that it was a great way of informing them of what the Regiment has to offer as a Reserve (part-time) or Regular (full-time) soldier.

The best of CES 2020

4 years ago in Technology Insight by Curtly Richards

There were a few surprises at this year’s event in Las Vegas. Sony unveiled a car, Samsung and LG continued to push the boundaries of television display resolution, and smart home product manufacturers signed up to a more compatible, collaborative approach.

It’s easy to be blindsided by the offerings of the big hitters. One product that could revolutionise the lives of millions with diabetes is the Add Care Glutrac. It claims to be a non-invasive wearable glucose monitor.

On the same tack, Focul debuted its first Dolby Atmos speaker. Part of three products revealed at the event, the floor standing Chora 826-D features a vertical-firing driver that delivers the spacial height channels of an Atmos soundtrack. Quite a technical undertaking.

The wireless earphones/headphones segment is one of the most rapidly growing areas in consumer electronics. There have been multiple new products introduced by both established and newer entrants to the market. Technics presented their catchily-named EAH-AZ70W at CES. It’s available in black or silver, and features splash-proof capability, as well as integration with digital assistants, depending on which smartphone is used.

Everyone had expected Sony to make a splash about the PlayStation 5. Much to everyone’s surprise, they simply unveiled its logo and concentrated on their concept vehicle, the VISION-S. Packed with loads of sensors, AI and a beefy entertainment system, it was certainly a bit leftfield.

Will next year live up to this? We’ll just have to wait and see.

Catch up with Scott Houghton from Lynx F.C.

4 years ago in Sport Insight by Curtly Richards

This month we catch up with Scott Houghton, Head of Marketing & Social Media at Lynx F.C.

It’s safe to say that the 2019/20 season has been the most positive start to a season I have ever experienced since joining Lynx in 2016.

I first got involved in 2015, when I was messaging clubs in Gibraltar about buying football shirts, including Lynx. The guy on the Lynx fan page was so helpful and happy to sort me out, it was great to see that kind of fan engagement! It was this attention to detail and customer service that made me want to closely follow the Lynx Football Club. I later learned that it was Albert Parody and Jonathan Costa who I had been speaking to.

We kept in touch, and they could see my passion for football in Gibraltar, and in 2016, Jonathan asked me if I wanted to be more involved. How could I say no? Being located in the UK comes with its challenges, but its great that I can keep in regular contact with not only other members of the committee, but also the players. I receive on a regular basis photos and videos, which I later use across our social media platforms. It is great to be part of such a close-knit team who help one another.

I’m usually in Gibraltar in the summer for a holiday, but I will often try and find a cheap flight to come over and watch some Lynx games; not to mention some Gibraltar International matches as well. Believe it or not, I have never seen an England international match or been to Wembley, but have seen Gibraltar play many times.

It’s been a real highlight the last two years, being able to see the start of the domestic season before flying home. My two sons certainly enjoyed watching the games and every member of the team makes them feel welcome; be it posing for photos, or receiving a high-five as they walk out of the dressing room. This is what I love about the “yellows”.

On the social media side, our aim for 2020 is to further expand the brands’ identity and discover new challenges on a global stage as we make ourselves available on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @Lynxfcgib. It’s great to engage with people who may not necessarily be Lynx fans, but are neutrals. We have encountered those that are interested in collecting memorabilia from teams in different leagues across the world. We have sent shirts, scarves, pendants and badges to many different countries such as Russia, Japan, Poland, Bulgaria as well as the UK.

Whilst in the Netherlands for the UEFA Futsal Champions League Preliminary round, I took a big bag of pin badges with me, and didn’t come home with any. It was great to give them out as gifts to members of the host team who looked after us so well, and other teams from the preliminary group. The whole trip was a fantastic experience and I can’t thank Albert Parody enough for having me there. Once again, the futsal team are doing an amazing job, currently sitting at the top of the Premier Division unbeaten so if you’ve never watched futsal, I highly recommend going to Tercentenary Hall and catching a game. If you didn’t see last month’s issue of Gibraltar Insight, it’s well worth a read as Jonathan Costa spoke more in-depth about futsal.

The dream would be to represent Gibraltar in the UEFA Champions League or the UEFA Europa League. We all understand it will be tough against the top 3 and their financial advantage from previous UEFA campaigns, but if we previously managed to finish 3rd in the Premier Division when there were only two slots for UEFA qualification and finished runners-up in the Rock Cup, you can never say never!

For further information, please contact the club on lynxfc@mail.com or 200 69695.

On the Spot: Paul Gibson

4 years ago in Features by Curtly Richards

Chartered Surveyor / Property Valuer and Director of Gibson Gale Ltd

Where did you first start your employment?

“In a small Land Agency Practice in Rochdale near Manchester.”

How would you describe yourself?

“Difficult question, A personality test for a job many years ago said that I had an investigative personality and was not a risk taker and at the time I was surprised to get the job. Sounds boring but I think I have developed over the years!!”

Which person had been the biggest influence in your life?

“Probably my grandmother who took life as it came and would say such gems as ‘there is plenty more fish in the sea’ and ‘whatever happens it will be for the best’. She almost reached 100 years which goes to show that worry is bad for you.”

What is the best book you have ever read?

“Not an easy one but the book I read the most was Lord of the Rings (the trilogy) which I read about 6 times, not sure that it is the best book I have ever read perhaps I need to read it again.”

What is your favourite music track?

“This is a moving feast but perhaps a classic such as ‘Baker Street’ by Jerry Rafferty.”

What is your biggest fear?

“Being unable to go out on my bike.”

If you could change something about yourself what would it be?

“Get my hair to grow back.”

Have you ever been given advice that you wished you had acted on?

“To buy bitcoins when they first came out and hold them to the top of her market.”

What is the worst advice that you have ever been given?

“Not to buy Bitcoins.”

What is the best country you have ever visited?

“Probably Italy where you can immerse yourself in history and the atmosphere of the place.”

What makes you laugh?

“Good black comedy such as The League of Gentlemen.”

What is your greatest ambition?

“To win the Tour de France, sadly only a dream.”

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

“A relaxing holiday with my partner Raquel.”

Have you had any embarrassing moment?

“I was in the house some years ago when I was woken by my daughters who said 2 cars were on fire in the street below, I jumped out of bed onto the

terrace expecting the worst to be told by everyone around to get some clothes on as I was stark naked.”

What work or phrase do you most overuse?

“Yes of course I can.”

Do you have any regrets?

“Not being born with hindsight.”

What keeps you awake at night?

“Thinking about work or pets jumping on the bed.”

What is the best experience you’ve had in life so far?

“Seeing my daughters grow up to be good sensible adults.”

If you did not live where you are currently located where would you like to live?

“Possibly Corsica.”

What person historic or living would you most like to meet?

“Helen of Troy to see if she was as beautiful as history says she was.”

If you could change one thing about Gibraltar what would it be?

“Having less traffic on the roads.”

What is your favourite hobby or interest?

“Road cycling.”

Christmas Card Competition Winners

4 years ago in Community Insight by Curtly Richards

His Excellency the Governor, Lieutenant General Edward Davis CB CBE KStJ, and Mrs Davis, in association with the Department of Education, presented awards to the winners, runners-up and the highly commended of the 2019 official Christmas Card design competition.

Along with His Excellency the Governor, the judges included Mrs Davis, The Hon Mr Gilbert Licudi, Mr Darren Grech and Mr Ludovic Leroy.

Winner: Mathieu Busto, St Anne’s Middle School

Runner-up: Isabelle Henry, Loreto Convent

Runner-up: Nooran Tizniti, St Bernard’s Middle School

Highly commended:

Lauren Brooks, St Joseph’s Middle School

Isabella Messina, St Anne’s Middle School

Mia Lara, St Bernard’s Middle School

Emilia Astesiano, Bishop Fitzgerald Middle School

Ricard Caro Gandia, St Bernard’s Middle School

Noa Sanchez Cano, Bishop Fitzgerald Middle School

Maisie Andlaw, St Bernard’s Upper Primary School

The winner received an Apple 9.7-inch iPad, donated by Newton Systems Ltd.

Miss Gibraltar

4 years ago in Culture Insight by Curtly Richards

Miss Gibraltar 2019, Celine Bolaños, visited London ahead of the Miss World Pageant.

On arrival, she and the other 112 contestants, took in a full schedule of activities, receptions, filming, touring the Capital and rehearsing.

Celine has already taken part in some of the fast track events which include the Top Model round, Talent round and the Sports Challenge.

Catch-up with Celine’s latest adventures on her Social Media Channels including Miss Gibraltar Facebook, Miss World – Gibraltar Facebook, MobStar & Instagram.

Interview John Blake – MD Sovereign

4 years ago in Business Insight by Curtly Richards

In a New Year special and to launch their sponsorship of Business Insight, we caught up with Sovereign’s new MD, John Blake, and asked him about the company, Gibraltar and future plans…

Could you give us a brief introduction of Sovereign?

Sovereign was founded in Gibraltar in 1987 and has since grown into one of the largest independent financial services providers in the world. With 450 employees in 26 offices spanning 20 jurisdictions we provide innovative solutions for a wide variety of corporates, entrepreneurs, private investors and high net worth individuals.

What’s the latest in Gibraltar?

These are interesting times for Gibraltar, the transformation has been underway for a number of years but in recent times it has pushed forward to position itself as a serious and mature player on the world stage. Gibraltar continues to punch well above its weight. For the first time in its history Gibraltar has effectively been recognised by Spain and has also entered into its first Double Taxation Agreement, with more likely to follow.

Whilst Gibraltar’s tax regime is competitive like most small jurisdictions that need to survive in the world it may come as a surprise that Gibraltar is preceded by a number of other jurisdictions on the 2019 Corporate Tax Haven Index. These include the BVI, Cayman Islands, Switzerland, Jersey, Singapore, Bahamas, Hong Kong, UAE, UK, Mauritius, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Cyprus, China, Malta and the USA.

It is positive that the Gibraltar Socialist Labour Party won the recent election retaining power for a third term. It reflects a politically stable environment, one where the economy is thriving and the relationship with the UK is becoming ever closer.

Sovereign is certainly optimistic about the future. So much so that we are moving to a new property. This shows our commitment to Gibraltar. After all Gibraltar is Sovereign’s home.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role in Sovereign

I started my career in Financial Services in the Isle of Man roughly 15 years ago. Having moved to London 5 years ago where my journey began with Sovereign an opportunity subsequently arose in our Gibraltar office which has recently led to me taking on the Managing Director role for Sovereign Trust (Gibraltar) Limited.

How has Sovereign responded to an evolving and mature market place?

The regulatory landscape that we operate in is becoming ever more challenging. Initiatives such as FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act), CRS (Common Reporting Standard) and DAC6 reflects a new age of transparency and substance which individuals and firms such as ours can either embrace or ignore at their peril.

Sovereign supports such initiatives. For some time we have been providing the support to create substance. Whether it’s merely setting up a business or structuring employee benefit packages and incentive plans for attracting and retaining key staff, accounting services, payroll, bespoke insurance packages, corporate and personal pension plans, obtaining local licences & permits, plus executive relocation. Sovereign has developed a compelling suite of corporate services to assist the entry, growth and sustainability of businesses in all major international finance centres.

How has the new double tax agreement legislation changed things?

There was time in Gibraltar when it was not beneficial to engage in double taxation agreements. As mentioned above the jurisdiction has been undergoing a transformation. The Gibraltar-UK DTA is an incredible milestone which reflects how serious Gibraltar is in trading with mature jurisdictions. Gibraltar truly will be the the place for European (and non-European) business to establish in order to access UK markets.

Gibraltar is a well-regulated, transparent jurisdiction where financial services are supported by a modern environment with high-quality infrastructure. Gibraltar welcomes businesses who bring economic substance.

Implications of the tax agreement between Spain and the UK regarding Gibraltar?

The UK and Spain have signed a tax Agreement regarding Gibraltar and whilst it awaits ratification in Spain it is another important milestone as it means Spain finally recognises Gibraltar, a contentious point since 1713.

The tax agreement provides clarity for businesses and individuals who straddle the two jurisdictions.

Has the threat of Brexit affected the execution of business in Gibraltar?

The major issue affecting business in Gibraltar regarding Brexit is uncertainty. Once the UK parliament finds closure on Brexit, on way or the other, Gibraltar will be able to respond to business accordingly.

Despite the gloomy tone in Gibraltar following the Brexit referendum the attitude is now extremely positive. We expect business to increase post Brexit. Gibraltar is a perfect jurisdiction for European (and non-European) business to establish themselves to access UK markets. Think Gibraltar – Gateway to the UK

Why is Sovereign different to other providers in Gibraltar?

Unlike the vast majority of providers in Gibraltar we have a global footprint. This enables us to service globally mobile multi-nationals and individuals. It is important to note that our offices across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East do not act as separate silos. We are united in our approach and recognise that the service clients receive is paramount in setting us apart from others.

Are you involved in the FinTech space?

Yes indeed. We offer solutions to across the group of Sovereign companies but most importantly in Gibraltar.

On 1 January 2018 Gibraltar became the first jurisdiction in the world to legislate on Distributed Ledger Technology (akin to the blockchain) becoming a hub for responsible FinTech and Virtual Assets (crypto) businesses.

There are 13 FinTech businesses operating as licensed DLT Providers in Gibraltar to date with numerous applications in process. It doesn’t sound a lot but it’s all relative. DLT providers equal that of investment manager licensees, auditors, banks and exceeds that of E-Money institutions. It truly is a success story with a bright future.

Sovereign offers a range of services to assist FinTech business establish in Gibraltar. From initial and ongoing consultation regarding the regulatory process, forming legal entities, introductions to key stakeholders, provision of bespoke corporate insurance, bank account applications, payroll services, company secretarial, assistance obtaining work permits, locating office space as well as the provision of non-executive directors

Any extra-curricular activities?

I enjoy interviewing local business owners, professionals and government departments on Business Matters, a monthly magazine programme allowing viewers an insight into the unique and eclectic business world of Gibraltar.

See it at www.yourgibraltartv.com/business-matters

The Saccone & Speed Trophy

4 years ago in Sport Insight by Curtly Richards

The third event of the 2019-20 Med Golf season for the Saccone & Speed Trophy was held at the Rio Real Golf course in Marbella.

The course had recovered well from the heavy rain 2 days prior to the event and there were very few wet patches. However, buggies were not allowed onto the fairways so players found themselves on the course for longer than normal and with much more exercise than they had planned for. Nevertheless, the weather held out and all went well on the day.

Steve Munns was Champion of the day, winner of the Saccone & Speed Trophy, a £150 voucher redeemable at Cohen and Massias, jewellers and agents for Tag Heuer, and a coveted Winner’s shirt that qualifies him for the Med Golf Masters at San Roque Club in July. Steve scored a very fine 37 points off handicap 11, six points clear of his nearest rival.

Steve also won the best pair alongside Damian White with a combined score of 66 points.

The best gross score of 78 was posted by Matthew Bruce-Smith, handicap 0. Matthew was also the Category 1 winner with 31 points beating Louis Calvente (12.6) and Joe Sanchez (12.8) – also with 31 points – on handicap.

The best senior with a score of 32 points was Peter Yeoman. Peter was also the Category 3 winner as recorded below.

Richard Atkinson had the longest drive and the best gross on the Par 3s was level par scored by Mike Cowburn. Les Housley won the best dressed golfer – best in show!

Our handicap category prizes were won as follows:

Category 1 (handicaps 0 to 13): The winner was Matthew Bruce-Smith who won entry into the Med Golf Masters and the coveted Med Golf Masters shirt as well as a set of balls and tees.

Category 2 (handicaps 14 to 21): In spite of a series of handicap cuts earned for previous good scores, especially as the Champion of the day at the last event, David Murphy won Category 2 with 31 points. As he was already qualified for the Med Golf Masters, David won a set of golf balls and tees and a 40€ Med Golf voucher.

Category 3 (handicap 22 to 30): The winner was Peter Yeoman with a score of 32 points. Peter qualifies for the Masters and wins the coveted Masters Shirt as well as the golf ball and tee pack.

Nearest the pin winners were: Matthew Robinson, Louis Calvente, Matthew Warner and Mike Cowburn. Nearest to the pin in 2 on a par 4 was Andrew Brown and Chris Warren was nearest to the pin in 3 on a par 5.

The prizes were presented by Med Golf’s Judith Benezrah.

Guests are made very welcome at all events and are encouraged to join us and enjoy a great day out. While they are not eligible to win the trophy or category prizes, they can win the many mini-competition prizes and even a best guest prize if warranted by numbers.

Look back to learn, look forward to succeed

4 years ago in Sport Insight by Curtly Richards

So what have we learned as we look back on a busy 2019 for the Lynx footballing family?

Senior Team. The last half of the 2018/2019 season saw steady performances from the Senior squad, but as part of our Strategic Development Plan, we did recognise that elements of our game and our approach would benefit from some improvement in the forthcoming season. A busy pre-season during the summer saw Lynx retain a robust core of players from the previous Senior and Intermediate teams, allowing some strategic transfers to be targeted with specific new players brought in to compliment an already structured group. Pre-season activity continued at pace with a number of successful games.

This approach has provided a very strong foundation during the first half of the 2019/2020 season, and after 9 matches played, the Senior team sit in fourth place with a game-in-hand in the Gibraltar National League, very closely behind those in third. Unbeaten in 8 out of 9 matches, we look forward to continuing to build for a stronger future. This level of performance has also been recognised by the Gibraltar National team, with three Senior Lynx players chosen as part of the National squad for this season.

Futsal Premier Team. Our Futsal team has also continued to develop from another amazing season in the Premier League, having qualified for the UEFA Champions League Futsal Competition for the fifth year in a row, a record achievement for Gibraltar football. The Preliminary Round held in the Netherlands provided an opportunity for all squad members to compete with professional players at very high footballing levels.

The team is currently first in the Premier League and remains unbeaten in this year’s domestic season. We look forward to an exciting second half to the season as we daw towards next year’s UEFA Champions League.

Intermediate Team. The Intermediate squad have had an amazing season so far and currently sit in joint first-place after 9 matches played. A committed and focused group of players, pushing for penetration into the Senior squad provides us with healthy competition within the Club.

Youth Academy. Our Lynx Youth Academy continues to offer many opportunities for both boys and girls of all ages within the community; for those who wish to progress through their footballing development and for those that simply want to have fun with friends. We are so proud of all our Grassroots players, who show commitment and dedication week in and week out.

They are the building blocks of our Club and already showing signs of future Senior players, competing at the highest of levels.

The Youth Academy also had a busy summer, starting with a Lynx fun day at the Victoria Stadium, and then several pre-season matches. We are pleased to have representation at many youth levels, including U5; U6; U7; U8; U10 and U12.

Our Youth ethos is very simple – play with enjoyment; respect and empathy. “The future isn’t something that we enter, the future is something that we create together”.

For further information, please contact the club on lynxfc@mail.com or 200 69695.

Curtly Richards - page 39

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

You might be interested in

Share This

You might be interested in