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KEN AND ABBY ADAMS
BY GEMMA HANDY
It all began with the need to fill a void. And where necessity is the mother of invention, impeccable timing invariably provides the fuel.
Back in 1984, the closure of the Grand Turk architectural firm Ken Adams and Abby Smith were working for – coupled with a dearth of places from which to buy basic nuts and bolts – prompted the pair to open a hardware store.
Fast forward four decades and that tiny enterprise in a quiet corner of the capital isle has evolved into what is today one of the largest businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Do It Center’s success also represents a rare instance of a wholly locally-owned entity fending off competition from resource-dense foreign counterparts, while remaining one
of TCI’s biggest employers with more than 200 staff to boot.
In November, the home improvement and building materials company celebrated a landmark 40 years in business. It’s a milestone by any standards and one that has come to exemplify the Islands’ accelerated pace of development and accompanying construction boom.
The “rags to riches” story saw the Salt Cay-born couple – who last year also marked their ruby wedding anniversary – named the Weekly News’ People of the Year 2024. For the paper’s publisher Blythe Duncanson, theirs is a tale of a vertiginous rise from humble beginnings to household name.
It was not an accolade they were anticipating, Abby says, but it beautifully caps off a year that has been both commemorative and challenging. Anniversary
celebrations involved customers, clients and suppliers alike. There were in-store ceremonies, donations to local schools for the creation of new sporting facilities, and community endeavours like the annual and hugely popular senior citizens’ Christmas parties. Ensuring their compatriots reap some of the benefits of their achievements is at the crux of the couple’s ethos. The Grand Turk and Salt Cay festive bashes for the nation’s elderly residents, complete with food, gifts and entertainment, have been running for almost two decades, and several years in North and South Caicos too.
“Building relationships is very, very, very important,” Abby tells the Weekly News. “When you have good relationships, you build trust. And trust is key in any business,
CONTINUED
Ken and Abby said that they are very proud of their children and “appreciate the passion they are developing for the business”
In November, Do it Center celebrated a landmark 40 years in business under the stewardship of Ken and Abby
The groundbreaking Islanders behind one of TCI’s most successful companies
along with integrity, honesty, commitment, transparency and loyalty.
“We have loyalty to our associates, those persons who work with us, and loyalty to our customers too.
“That goes a long way in our business, especially now when everyone is trying to find good pricing,” she adds.
TCI might enjoy significant economic growth and an eightfigure operating surplus other Caribbean islands can only dream of, but inflation continues to strike at the heart of many families’ finances forcing government to fork out millions in cost-of-living support last year.
The Do It Center’s role in helping ease the burden is not a responsibility Ken and Abby take lightly.
“We are all on this ball field playing the same game together,” Abby emphasises.
After all, the couple’s first tentative steps of their entrepreneurial journey remain fresh in their memory.
When the small British-run firm they both worked at decided to close all those years ago “we had to decide what we were going to do”, Ken recalls.
“I had been managing the shipping side of the business so I had some experience in that. It was very difficult in Grand Turk at the time to find any construction products, especially nuts, bolts and nails. That’s what drove me to start a little hardware business,” he continues.
“We would get a couple of dollars together and go to Miami to buy small amounts of things to sell. Back then we had one employee, Abby’s mother. We put all our efforts into it and over the years we were doing very well.”
Starting a second business in Providenciales in 1996 – and moving there permanently a year later, leaving a management team in place in Grand Turk – was a “very hard decision”, Abby puts in.
“We were very comfortable in our comfort zone,” Abby smiles. “We weren’t sure what we were getting ourselves into, but opportunities presented themselves.”
Many Islanders will clearly
remember those heady days when the first seeds of the country’s nascent tourism industry began to sprout. By the mid-90s, an everincreasing number of plush resorts were appearing along Grace Bay Beach. With Provo’s burgeoning population came unprecedented demand for the Do It Center’s products.
“We saw great growth, Provo was moving so fast,” Ken says. “We started with 600 square feet of space. Two months later we moved because we could see great success ahead.
“In early 1997 we bought property and started construction. We’ve been here 26 years and have seen the business grow from a little rented place to over 150,000 square feet of covered space.”
Vision helps of course. Recent years saw the firm add the Hardrock Concrete Company to its portfolio as the couple sought to further capitalise on TCI’s momentous progression.
“Over the last three years, there’s been a huge increase in the hotel, condos and home rentals industry.
Construction has increased by 50 or 60 percent; it’s become a big part of our turnover,” Ken explains.
Currently propelling the business – whose tagline is ‘from foundation to key’ – are sales of cement, sand, aggregate and readymix concrete.
“We are feeling positive about the new year; we can see huge growth again because there are a lot of projects on the table,” Abby says.
Still, optimism will only get one so far. Heightened competition is a natural bedfellow to an upsurge in demand.
“Not only are there more local stores now, there are a lot more imports from the US,” Abby concedes.
“Last year was pretty busy and we experienced growth in our business, but it’s a bit of a challenge to maintain that growth. We have more competition, we’ve had to strategize more, plan ahead, and every day make the effort to be ahead of the game.
“It’s a changing industry and we have to keep our alert shoes on and keep focused. It takes a lot of hard work.”
The pair’s determination to
Ken and Abby have built their business on trust, integrity, honesty, commitment, transparency and loyalty
Together, the couple share four children
NEEDED CHANGES IN 2025
The Turks and Caicos Islands enters 2025 with great anticipation for the general election, infrastructural development, and necessary social measures to curb gang violence and prevent unnecessary deaths.
With all things considered, 2024 was a challenging year as we lost many sons and daughters to gun violence.
As the New Year begins, we strive to create the best versions of ourselves, our communities, and our country.
What changes would you like to see in the TCI in 2025?
Return TCI to TCIslanders
The year 2025 is a pivotal year for mankind and most critically the people of the Turks & Caicos Islands. In 1969 a folk group called “Zager & Evans” performed a song called “In the year 2525,” ‘If man is still alive’, etc. According to Wikipediathe song as written, is “about the journey of mankind over a 10,000-year span. It predicts that man’s thoughts, relationships and body will be negatively impacted by technological advances and ends with man’s extinction”.
The threats facing the TCI are more dire, immediate and “existential” than those 1969 artists. We must ask ourselves, is this a time for a reset in the way we do business and manage the economy? It is ‘rich’ ‘dynamic and powerful economy but without the diverse features that the Constitution prescribes. In the third line to the preamble of the Constitution is aimed that there will be a “vibrant diversified economy, work to provide full employment opportunities, and protect their posterity”.
If there is one prevailing issue and feeling, coming from the electorate, it is that “this is not our country.” Basically, the feeling is, “We do not know this country and we do not feel in anyway, “a part of it”. This is the challenge for the new Premier and His Government, whether it be the Hon Edwin Astwood or the current Premier, Hon Misick, to find a way to meet this constitutional objective and to remove that feeling of “being left out” by the average Turks & Caicos Islander.
Refocus on what makes us TCIslanders
When it comes to crime, there seems to be that ‘certain comfort level’ by the current National Security Council (NSC).
The public and the police know where the crime is and where the perpetrators live but somehow they are afraid to go there and get them. There is no policy on guns and no real resolve from elected officials. Hopefully, this indolence and weakness will change in 2025. Weakness of this nature can really be expensive and tragic. We lost too many lives these past years but the crime is not showing any sign of abatement. It is like the criminal behaviour has a mind and life of its own.
We are dealing with a generation that lacks natural affection. The generations just before this one were not sent but were mandated to go to church, serve God and acknowledge that we have a creator. Like the preamble of the constitution prescribes, a “God-fearing people with convictions based on sound Christian culture, values and principles” Owing to this trend of abandoning Church and faith, the youth, as in 2 Timothy 3-5 KJV, states “3 without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God”.
It is time the country returns to God. That will be a short-term solution and pathway back to normalcy. We must also stop electing leaders who are Worthless, useless, “baby daddies” who spawn children and do not take care of the children. This
leads to anger and a passion that cannot be controlled in children and boys who are fatherless. Such men, “who do not care” should be weeded out of public life because that is the problem as well.
No more gangs
I know it is wishful thinking, but we really need to deport all the gang members who have made TCI their second home.
TCI has continued to degenerate. We live in a society with children catching feelings and fighting with guns instead of having positive discourse. Can’t we talk things out anymore?
Plus what are we fighting for? Are our young people so unwise that they can’t see that gangs are killing them?
The only gang should be a church gang.
Stop the self-inflicted constitutional crisis
The patterns and position are to hide behind the Governor, her deputy, and the Attorney General and collectively blame them for policy, ministerial, and related failures. You have 19 candidates on each side of the political divide: PNP and PDM; third parties like the PDA etc., and the independents cannot continue to rely on being weak leaders to govern this country.
Either you are men and women who will really run your ministries, force policy and implement real change or you can simply just get out of politics. The people, if they want, can find another way to pay you MPs huge salaries and to collect a pension for doing “absolutely nothing” after serving two terms in Parliament. This is a self-invented constitutional crisis by elected ministers, who cannot govern and do not know how to govern.
No, Governor, or AG or Deputy Governor, (really now, “Constitutional Advisors”) three beautiful young ladies, for example, can force a policy to reduce scholarships from 11 to 8. Nor decide to give a resort like Club Med, millions without it even being budgeted for. You elected officials did this yourselves.
This pattern of political dishonesty in the TCI needs to change. A government armed with a final resolve to make sensible decisions in favour of their people will
govern without constitutional advisors and when things become untenable, go public and stay public, until the crisis is resolved. Either you are running to make change, if you are not—get out of the game.
Reset needed
We do need for the civil service to be levelled up and those at the bottom of the salary scale in government should be moved from paltry incomes, and slave wages to a living wage.
We cannot have a country where people are simply left out but millions, $100s of millions are paid out in debt, under-thetable deals and the people suffer. We cannot live off $1000 once every four years. That cannot work and an economic model of that nature is fatal to the future of the country. We need a scholarship fund for scholars and a loan finance facility where all who need to study can apply, get funding and get ahead in life. The Community College needs to be advanced to a university and the time for doing that is nigh, It is a vital national need so that more and more of our students can be educated to return home to lead their country. Word from the street is that the country is in a transition mode but what we need is a government that will place its people first.
Return to God
TCI is still a Christian country with Christian values. For the last few decades religion has been under attack from the ungodly. The atheists would claim that science has all the answers and that God or the concept of God is outdated. But look at what TCI was with Christ at the rudder. We were respectable, crime-less, driven and godly. It is time for us to return to the church and for our children to return to Sunday school. Let’s put God first in 2025.
Ken and Abby Adams ...
keep prices as affordable as possible means a constant search for new suppliers, often forging relationships directly with manufacturers to cut out costly middlemen.
“Everything we do, we keep the customer in mind; what would they say, what would they like,” Abby says.
“We take pride in helping the community and contributing to the development of the Turks and Caicos. People feel that and appreciate what we are doing.
“It’s not just about money but people, and making sure they are happy and are able to feed their families. We have over 200 employees, which is a massive responsibility. They know we care; a lot of them feel like they are our own kids, it’s a special bond.
“You have to care for people,” she continues staunchly. “That’s where we stand, and it gives us a spirit of pride and humility.”
The couple’s village mindset, along with their business acumen, has its roots in the sleepy streets of TCI’s smallest inhabited island.
“Growing up in Salt Cay was beautiful,” Abby enthuses. “It was a real community. There was discipline in school, discipline in
church. Everybody looked after everybody.
“I was the fifth of seven children. My father was a member of government, Alexander Smiththe representative for Salt Cay.
“My mother operated a small store and she started me there from very young. From 10 years old I was an entrepreneur. I remember standing on a bucket to reach the scales I was so small.”
Back then, Abby’s mentor was her older sister, now Tourism Minister and an esteemed businesswoman herself, Josephine Connolly. Later, Abby would go on to study accounting and business at college in Grand Turk, complemented by a slew of online courses and conferences as the business progressed.
“Ken was born in Salt Cay too; we always joke that we were born next door to each other,” Abby chuckles.
Born to Salt Cay’s District Commissioner Alexander Adams and Ida May Adams, Ken’s family was larger still. One of 12 children, his siblings include former Education Minister Karen Malcolm.
Together, the couple share four children – architect Kier, businessman Kenny, graphic designer Kevin, and Roquell who
is still in high school.
Collectively, the younger Adamses are living out some of their parents’ own youthful ambitions.
“Our children patterned our desires. I did well in my GCEs and would have loved the opportunity to be an architect; our daughter Kier has taken on that profession,” Ken muses.
Abby concurs.
“Our son Kenny does what I would have loved – he studied business and got his degree in the UK,” she says.
“We are so proud of our kids and we appreciate the passion they are developing for the business; they’ve been a great source of help and encouragement.”
Life is not for regrets, she believes, but given her time again Abby would have spent more time on travel and “self-development”.
Instead, she’s an avid reader of business titles and life stories of admired luminaries. Church and community work take up what’s left of her spare time. For Ken, treasured downtime is spent fishing or gardening.
These days – much like their Yuletide alms – their professional experience is something else they’re keen to share.
“One of the biggest problems
our locals have when trying to start a business is thinking that the money it generates is theirs to spend. People tend to get excited too quick and don’t make the right investments,” Abby explains.
“You have to give it time to breathe before you decide OK, I can pull money out and do personal or fancy stuff; it just does not work. They tend to forget their commitments, get on the high rise and lose focus.
“I’d like to encourage the locals to work with TC Invest. Right now there’s a lot of opportunity and we are always here to help and offer advice.”
While Ken and Abby’s business practices are progressive, their family values are rather more traditional.
Asked for the secret to working together as a married couple, Abby acknowledges the pair have “very different personalities”.
“He’s the man of the house, my husband and my partner, and I ensure I give him that respect,” she says. “We talk things over, we agree and we disagree, and we come up with good solutions because we respect each other’s opinion and that goes a long way.”
Ultimately, “transparency, honesty and respect” are integral in both their working and professional
relationship.
While Abby brings strong financial skills to her position as vice-president, Ken, who serves as the company’s president, is credited with being its “visionary”, able to anticipate the future and plan accordingly.
And with the chapter now closed on another year and the door to 2025 swung open, the pair say they will remain laser-focused on doing precisely that.
Additional Do It Center outlets, such as in North Caicos, could well be on the cards as the company continues to “follow the development”.
“The way we do things is different; we burn our own torch and in all things we give thanks,” Abby says.
At the centre of it all is a deepseated appreciation for two things they put first and foremost –“Almighty God” and the people of the Turks and Caicos.
“The people we serve are our own people. When you’re from a community, you have a feeling for that community; that’s something special, something you can’t buy.”
Pausing for a second to reflect, she adds: “We never want our people to feel like we’ve arrived and forgotten them. That’s genuine and dear to our hearts.”
When Ken is not at Do it Center he is at his farm
Premier highlights booming economy and increased spending in New Year’s address
BY DELANA ISLES
In his New Year’s message to the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Honourable Premier, Charles Washington Misick boasted of the territory’s booming economic position as 2025 begins.
Pointing to the continuing geopolitical tensions and supply chain problems which has resulted in some Caribbean countries reporting a slowing down of their economy, the Premier this is not the case with the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“We are doing well, he proclaimed, adding that, “Turks and Caicos remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.
This, he said, has pushed significant growth in the hotel, restaurant, construction, and real estate sectors.
“Government revenue has increased, giving us the room to spend more on security and social intervention measures. The unemployment rate continues to trend down, and our economy has almost doubled in size.
“GDP has jumped from $924 million in 2020 to $1.7 BILLION in 2024. To maintain this growth trajectory, we must be prudent in how we manage our affairs.”
The Premier outlined plans for 2025 and beyond, which include developing new industries to complement tourism. “Our goal is to reduce dependence on the
tourism industry, create new job opportunities and strengthen our economic resilience.”
He said in 2025, they expect real GDP to grow by 5.8% and the territory’s economic performance has time and time again exceeded projections. This he said is boosted by good governance, guided by government ministers who reflect the best of youth and experience.
Strong economic growth has given the Islands the fiscal space to fund new projects that will improve the lives of its people, Misick shared.
He said for the 2025/2026 financial year total revenues are projected to be $527 million - a decent 10% growth over
Election Department launches advance polling initiative for citizens
For the first time, an Advance Poll is being introduced in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It will take place on February 6, a day before the General Elections.
The groundbreaking new initiative aims to make voting more accessible and convenient for key groups in electoral districts.
In a statement on January 2, Election Supervisor Lister Dudley Lewis explained that the initiative is part of the department’s mission to ensure that every voter can exercise their democratic right, regardless of their circumstances.
He said: “By accommodating their unique needs, advance polling seeks to eliminate potential barriers to voting and reinforce the principles of accessibility and equity, empowering every eligible voter to participate in the upcoming TCI Elections with ease and confidence.”
The Election Department encourages all eligible persons to take advantage of this opportunity to make their voices heard without the potential challenges of election day.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR ADVANCE POLLING
● Senior citizens: voters aged 70 years and older
● Persons with disabilities, blindness or any physical incapacity who may face challenges voting on Election Day.
● Election officials and essential workers scheduled to work on Election Day, such as police
officers, border force officers, and officers of the Regiment.
● Healthcare professionals: Doctors, Nurses, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).
● Travellers: Individuals who will be travelling and unable to vote on Election Day.
● Imprisoned voters: Voters serving a sentence of imprisonment who remain qualified to vote.
● Individuals under medical restrictions: Voters who have tested positive for a communicable disease. Voters who are placed under quarantine by order of the Chief Medical Officer.
Eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for advance polling using the designated form and follow the outlined preparation steps to ensure a smooth voting experience.
Advance Polling will be conducted on February 6, with polling stations opening at 8 am and closing at 4 pm.
It will take place at designated locations across the Turks and Caicos Islands. A list of the polling locations for advance polling will be released closer to the election dates.
If you are a member of any of the groups eligible for advance polling, please follow these steps to ensure a smooth voting experience:
ADVANCE
REQUEST TO PARTICIPATE
You are required to apply to the Supervisor of Elections using the designated form. This form can
2024/2025.
Promising increased investments in infrastructure and essential services in 2025, the Premier forecasted total expenditure (excluding capital) at $467.6 million. They also anticipate operating surpluses in the upcoming financial year and beyond.
“We are not spending recklessly. We have put aside funds for a rainy day. We have cash to buy goods and services for 281 days. This is far beyond the requirement of 90 days of cash.
“These numbers tell a story of success,” Misick remarked.
According to him, these numbers illustrate show how his government has transformed the Turks and Caicos Islands from economic collapse in 2021 to one of the best-managed and bestperforming economies.
“My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, I am proud of the achievements of my government over the last three-plus years. We grew the economy, supported our people and successfully navigated the challenges thrust upon us by the global economic downturn and geopolitical tensions.
“I thank the Cabinet, the civil service and all who have worked tirelessly to help us navigate challenges and protect our people. I extend my sincere gratitude to all sectors of our economy.
Most of all I extend gratitude to the people of these islands. You are the foundation of a thriving and prosperous Turks and Caicos.”
He said his government’s work to give the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands a better life is unrelenting.
“You will always be our priority,” the Premier promised.
be obtained from the Election Department or will be attached for your convenience. Ensure the form is completed and submitted promptly to be included in the advance polling process.
VERIFY YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION DETAILS
Confirm that your voter registration details are accurate by contacting the Election Department or checking the official voter register.
KNOW THE ADVANCE POLLING SCHEDULE AND LOCATIONS
Familiarise yourself with the advance polling schedule and the designated polling locations to plan your visit during the specified period.
BRING VALID IDENTIFICATION
Make sure to bring an acceptable form of photo identification to the polling station.
NOTIFY FOR ASSISTANCE IF NEEDED
If you require assistance due to age, disability, or other circumstances, notify the Elections Department in advance to ensure appropriate arrangements are made. Additionally, take some time to understand the voting process, including how to use the DS 200 Tabulating machine, to avoid confusion on election day. Being well-prepared will help make your polling experience efficient and stress-free, Lewis advised.
Govt writes off $1.5m in charges and penalties on water bills
– Three-month moratorium also in effect
The Water Undertaking Department has announced a write-off of $1.5m in outstanding charges and penalties for residential and commercial customers in Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos, along with a three-month moratorium on water bills.
The debt write-off follows a Parliamentary Motion presented on December 17, 2024, to the tune of $1,502,301.66, aligning with section 52 of the Public Financial Management (PFM) Ordinance 2012.
The write-off applies to debts accrued up to November 11, 2024. While the moratorium will last for 90 days, ending on March 17, 2025.
In a statement, the Government indicated that they will also be engaging with KM Advisors LLC to conduct a thorough review of the Water Undertaking Department and its service offerings to identify systemic challenges and propose solutions.
According to the Government, the debt relief will provide affected customers with a fresh start by clearing all outstanding bills and penalties.
There will also be a technical assessment by the Provo Water Company to identify and resolve any operational or infrastructure-related issues.
Additionally, the customer list will be updated to ensure accuracy by removing accounts of deceased individuals. To facilitate the account purging process, customers must present to the Water Undertaking Department either a death certificate of the deceased account holder or letters of administration from the courts.
The government stated that the temporary moratorium on water bills will allow time for the investigations and assessments to be completed and for any required adjustments to be implemented.
Customers are required to submit the necessary documentation for opening a new account within a 14-day period from the initial request. If a customer is unable or unwilling to provide the required documentation, the matter should be escalated to the Executive Management of the Ministry for further assessment. No services should be provided until the required documentation is received and verified.
The government has made it clear that the write-off pertains exclusively to billing fees and penalties, and that customers should note that reconnection fees remain applicable and are not included in the amount written off. (DELANA ISLES)
Christmas Eve sting nets ammunition, gang suspects
In a dramatic Christmas Eve operation, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, backed by the TCI Regiment and Border Force, executed search warrants in the Dock Yard area of Providenciales. The operation uncovered a cache of ammunition and led to the arrest of three individuals, one of whom was found hiding on the premises.
A 54-year-old man was taken into custody, while two others face serious charges including Suspicion of Possession of Ammunition and Suspicion of Gang Affiliation. The operation sends a clear message about the force’s commitment to cracking down on gang activity in the islands.
HARBOURING GANG MEMBERS
In the wake of the arrests, the RTCIPF issued a stern reminder
to the public that aiding and abetting gang members is a criminal offense under the AntiGang Ordinance (2022).
“Harbouring a gang member 10. (1) A person who harbours a gang leader or a gang member commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to imprisonment for a term of ten years, (3) In this section “harbour” means supplying a person with shelter, food, drink, money or clothes, guns, ammunition or means of conveyance, or assisting a person in any way to evade apprehension.”
“Concealing a gang member 11. (1) A person who conceals— 8 (a) a gang leader or a gang member; or (b) a gang-related activity, commits an offence and is liable on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for a term of fifteen years”, the police said.
Govt reels under cyberattack: critical services disrupted
In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Turks and Caicos Islands, the government has confirmed that it was the victim of a major ransomware cyberattack on December 18th.
The attack has resulted in significant disruptions to essential services, leaving residents and businesses grappling with the fallout.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but it is clear that the impact has been widespread.
To this end, the government informed that it has been forced to activate emergency business continuity plans in a desperate attempt to restore critical functions, particularly those related to financial systems.
External experts scramble to contain the damage
External cybersecurity experts, funded by the UK government, have been brought in to investigate the breach and assist with recovery efforts. They are working around
the clock to contain the threat and restore functionality, but the process is expected to be slow and painstaking.
The government has also engaged specialist threat response teams to monitor the network for any signs of further malicious activity. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the systems are safe before they are brought back online.
In the meantime, the Ministry of Finance has been tasked with manually processing urgent payments, with priority given to social welfare, scholarships, healthcare, and other essential services. This is a stopgap measure designed to mitigate the immediate impact of the attack, but it is likely to result in delays for non-urgent payments.
The Governor, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, chaired a special meeting of Cabinet on December 30th to discuss the ongoing response to the crisis, according to a recent government statement.
Cabinet members were briefed on the latest developments and assured that every possible measure was being taken to address the incident comprehensively.
The government has vowed to restore all systems as quickly as possible and to build resilience against future attacks. This will involve a significant investment in cybersecurity infrastructure and personnel.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the nature of the attack, the identity of the perpetrators, and the government’s preparedness for such an event.
It is clear that this cyberattack has exposed vulnerabilities in TCI’s digital infrastructure, and there are calls for a full and transparent inquiry into the incident.
The public is understandably concerned about the potential for further disruptions and the impact on their daily lives. (OLIVIA ROSE)
CABINET MEETING SUMMARY
Turks and Caicos Islands post Cabinet meeting statement
Special Cabinet meeting addresses cyber-attacks on government services
On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government was the victim of a ransomware cyberattack resulting in major distribution of services.
According to a post-Cabinet statement, the investigation into the attack continues by external forensic investigators funded by the UK Government.
On December 30, 2024, a special meeting of Cabinet was chaired by Governor, Her Excellency, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, in Providenciales. All members of the Cabinet were present.
The Cabinet was briefed on the ongoing response by the external cyber security technical experts and TCIG officials from the Ministry of Finance, DETI and National Security.
Due to a number of factors including the heightened threat of attack from malign actors, restoration and recovery are being conducted carefully, balancing the need for access to critical operations against the necessity for the safe restoration of services,
appropriately secured against known threats, the statement read.
The government has since engaged external cyber security specialists who are taking forward the technical recovery, which is focused on the restoration of essential services. This has included deploying a capability that will manage the detection and response of any malicious activity within the network.
In order to accelerate the restoration of critical services, the relevant business continuity plans are being activated and initially focused on the government’s financial systems to enable payments. In parallel, work is underway to build alternative systems whilst work is ongoing to restore systems. Additional resources are being sought to accelerate this further and to enhance security measures in the coming weeks.
RECOVERY AND BUSINESS CONTINUITY MEASURES
The government is also working in
collaboration with external forensic investigators and external cyber security specialists who are continuing to work around the clock to investigate the breach, contain the threat and restore functionality.
Supported by a managed threat response service, all affected systems are undergoing comprehensive assessments to ensure their security before being brought back online and endpoint protection, the statement outlined.
Furthermore, to mitigate the immediate impact, business continuity plans are being enacted to manually process outstanding and urgent payments. Priority will be given to the processing of payments prioritised by urgency within the following categories: social welfare, scholarship and grants, healthcare-related payments, cost of living programmes, financial assistance programmes, community enhancement programs, utility payments, bi-weekly employees and all other approved payments for goods and services.
Dedicated resources from the Ministry of Finance is being deployed to process these transactions manually while ensuring compliance with all necessary controls and safeguards. Consequently, non-urgent payments are likely to experience delays.
A detailed report on the nature of the attack and the steps taken to prevent future incidents will be submitted once the recovery process is complete.
The Cabinet was assured that every possible measure was being taken to address the incident comprehensively and ensure ongoing protection.
Cabinet was also advised that several other key databases and applications remain operational. These include status cards, passports, elections database, RDS applications for driver’s licenses, BMS airport passenger processing, and ASYCUDA (customs clearance).
Cabinet said it has affirmed its commitment to providing all the resources needed to restore government systems, whilst also building resiliency to mitigate against future attacks.
Happy New Year
A symbol of hope, renewal, grace and forgiveness
INTRODUCTION
Happy New Year Everyone! Let us not take this year or any day for granted. Numbers symbolise significant meaning from a Biblical point of view. Let us look at the number 2025. The number 20 symbolises hope and renewal while the number 25 symbolises grace and forgiveness.
A SYMBOL OF HOPE
I know many of you have been waiting for so many things to materialise but do not give up. The Israelites endured a period of slavery for 400 years. However, after 20 decades, God sent Moses to rescue them. Your waiting will not be in vain. You must have hope, and I believe many of us will get a breakthrough, but you must believe. However, it requires you to be patient knowing that what
BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR
Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.
God promised you will come to fruition.
Remember the story about Abraham. Abraham was 75 years old when he received the promise from God that he would be the father of many nations. However, 25 years later at the age of 100, Abraham became a father to Isaac through which the promise was fulfilled.
A SYMBOL OF RENEWAL
It is time for a renewal with our walk with God. We have experienced so many hurts, disappointments and our past still haunts us. Renew your relationship with God, focused on God, let go of the things of this world. I know it is not easy, but it can be done. However, it will require us to change our mindset. If your mindset remains the same, your actions will be the same and
your outcome will be the same.
A SYMBOL OF GRACE
The number 5 is God’s grace and 25 represents 5 times 5 indicating abundance of grace. Grace is God’s unmerited favour. Expect an abundance of favour and grace from God. Don’t think it will not happen no matter how things look.
2nd Corinthians 9:8 says “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:”
A SYMBOL OF FORGIVENESS
In Mathew 18:21-22, Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. Seven times? Jesus responded and said no not seven times but seventy times seven. It
is hard to forgive someone and even if you forgive someone, it is hard to forget. Let this year be a year of forgiveness. Don’t hold unforgiveness in your heart because it may interfere with your walk with God.
CONCLUSION
I know that this is an election year and so many people are focusing on that but getting too involved in politics can be a distraction. In fact, if you don’t watch out, it may cause you to hope to be diminished and it may cause you to have unforgiveness towards others. However, as you can see and read, numbers have significant biblical meanings about them. Therefore, turn to God in 2025, do what is right and live according to the Word to experience the significance behind these numbers.
How vulnerable is tourism in TCI in 2025 and beyond?
The Turks and Caicos Islands have long been a sought-after escape for travellers seeking tropical tranquillity. It’s evident by the surge in visitors.
According to published reports, between January and November 2024, 1,785,920 visitors arrived on our shores. This represents a 10.53% increase in air arrivals with cruise tourism surging by 25.53% compared to the previous year. While these figures highlight a very impressive growth and must
BY ED FORBES A concerned citizen of Grand Turk
be commended, they also raise an urgent question: Are we doing enough to protect this vital yet fragile industry?
Tourism, by nature, is unpredictable, and as a developing nation, Turks and Caicos must tackle its vulnerabilities head-
on. Grand Turk, in particular, provides a glaring example of these challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic halted cruise tourism for 18 months, devastating local businesses. Even now, slow seasons or minimal ship arrivals leave small business owners struggling to stay afloat.
The key question is this: How resilient is our tourism sector, especially cruise tourism? While the island of Providenciales faces unrest due to rising violent crime in select areas and challenges with local connecting flight delays, Grand Turk wrestles with a lack of appeal and unresolved safety concerns.
Visitors’ first impressions often define their experience. Yet, in 2025, Grand Turk cruise visitors are greeted by hurricane-damaged buildings left in ruins since 2008.
The absence of strategically placed garbage bins and daily cleaning crews along the beach further detracts from our image as a premier destination.
These issues may seem minor, but in the age of social media, one negative TikTok or Instagram post can significantly harm our reputation.
Safety is another critical issue.
Thousands of cruise passengers frequent Grand Turk’s beaches, yet there are no lifeguards beyond Carnival Cruise Line’s designated areas. Additionally, we lack mobile beach response vehicles or maritime vessels to address emergencies swiftly. Lighting on Front Street remains insufficient despite years of successive government promises, leaving both residents and visitors at risk.
These gaps not only jeopardise our visitors’ experience but also our industry’s long-term viability. Tourists come to Turks and Caicos for exclusive, memorable experiences, yet we risk deterring them with these persistent oversights.
To safeguard our future, we must rethink our priorities. Investments in basic infrastructure—such as cleaning, safety measures, and strategic planning—are not mere enhancements but essential to maintaining our standing as a premier destination. Additionally, the focus must not only be on higher growth, but more efficiency. A shift from merely increasing visitor numbers to creating an experience will encourage repeat visits and build loyalty.
As the saying goes, “Don’t kill the goose that lays the golden egg.” If we are to remain “beautiful by nature,” we must live up to that promise—not only for tourists but also for the pride and prosperity of our islands.
Grand Turk deserves more than to be a pit stop; it should be an integral part of an unforgettable journey. As concerned citizens, we remain hopeful, but the stakes are too high to settle for anything less.
Let’s stand together with compassion
Here in Turks & Caicos, we’re more than just a small country. We are like one big family. We know our neighbours. We look out for each other. When someone hurts, we all feel it. Yet, we’ve strayed from the warmth that defines us in recent times. When a crime happens, and a life is lost, that sorrow spreads across our islands like a sad wave. We should wrap our arms around those who are grieving. Instead, some people use these moments to stir sensational talk or chase online clicks. Think about the families left behind. They’re our parents, siblings, children, and friends. They see the same gruesome images shared online. For them, those images aren’t mere posts. They’re painful echoes of a loved one’s final moments. Can you imagine the pain of stumbling on a video of your child in their last seconds? That cuts deep. It’s just like pouring salt in an open wound. That would be cruel and soul-
crushing.
EMOTIONAL TOLL OF GRAPHIC CONTENT
When we pass around these disturbing images, we harm more than the grieving families. We place a burden on our entire community. Those images spark fear. They stir anger and a sense of hopelessness. Our bonds start to unravel. Children who see these posts often feel overwhelmed, as if they’re carrying the weight of a world they barely understand. Sharing these posts doesn’t bring justice to a community as close as ours. It adds to the hurt. It robs victims of their dignity and turns them into a public spectacle.
BROADER IMPLICATIONS
We have to see beyond emotional pain. This habit weakens the heart of our community:
• We lose empathy by seeing one shocking image after another,
BY AUDLEY ASTWOOD
which can make us numb.
• We disrupt justice because sensationalised posts can ruin investigations or spark more violence.
• We erode trust when we share private moments. We show that respect and privacy aren’t our priority.
HOW WE CAN DO BETTER?
We need to rely on each other for strength. That strength depends
on empathy. Let’s pause before sharing. Let’s remember the human cost. Here’s how we can respond with more compassion:
• Don’t share graphic content; if you see a disturbing photo or video, avoid posting or forwarding it. Send it to the authorities if it might help an investigation.
• Support grieving families by offering a simple message of condolence or a quiet act of kindness. It can soothe a broken heart.
• Focus on solutions by sharing
updates on community initiatives, crime prevention, or ways to make TCI safer.
• Protect our children by watching what they see online. Teach them compassion and remind them about privacy and dignity.
REMEMBERING WHO WE ARE
We’re in this together. We must keep our islands a place of love, respect, and hope. We set the tone by choosing empathy over spectacle. Let’s be the example we want others to follow.
We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics
Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested. Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com
Some social rules that may help you
Ah, 2025 is upon us, my friends! A fresh year, brimming with possibilities and the faint smell of New Year’s resolutions we’ve already kind of broken. But here’s the thing: let’s take it easy on ourselves, shall we?
This year, we’re channeling self-kindness, patience, and the sort of inner gentleness that makes our souls feel like they’re wrapped in cashmere. Trust me, the world is hard enough without you bullying yourself for breaking a few social norms. So, in the spirit of guiding us all through 2025 with a bit more class and a lot less chaos, I’ve decided to immortalise some essential social rules to keep us sane. No judgment, just gentle nudges and maybe a sassy sideeye for emphasis. Let’s get into it:
1. Don’t call someone more than twice continuously. If they don’t pick up your call, presume they have something important to attend to.
2. Return money that you have
BY DAVIDSON LOUIS
Rachel Wolchin once said: “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have had roots instead of feet.” On this quest to self-discovery, TC Islander Davidson Louis vowed to travel, write, paint, laugh and forgive. Subsequently, he hopes to find himself and or, leave behind a few pieces of himself. Contact him at hello. octopen@tcinews.tc
borrowed even before the person who borrowed you remembers or asks for it. It shows your integrity and character. The same goes for umbrellas, pens, and lunch boxes.
3. Never order the expensive dish on the menu when someone is giving you lunch/ dinner.
4. Don’t ask awkward questions like ‘Oh so you aren’t married yet?’ Or ‘Don’t you have kids’ or ‘Why didn’t you buy a house?’ Or why don’t you buy a car? For God’s sake it isn’t your problem.
5. Always open the door for the person coming behind you. It doesn’t matter if it is a guy
or a girl, senior or junior. You don’t grow small by treating someone well in public.
6. If you take a taxi with a friend and he/she pays now, try paying next time.
7. Respect different shades of opinions. Remember what’s 6 to you will appear 9 to someone facing you. Besides, a second opinion is good for an alternative.
8. Never interrupt people talking. Allow them to pour it out. As they say, hear them all and filter them all.
9. If you tease someone, and they don’t seem to enjoy it, stop it and never do it again. It encourages one to do more and it shows how
appreciative you are.
10. Say “thank you” when someone is helping you.
11. Praise publicly. Criticise privately.
12. There’s rarely a reason to comment on someone’s weight. Just say, “You look fantastic.” If they want to talk about losing weight, they will.
13. When someone shows you a photo on their phone, don’t swipe left or right. Period.
14. If a colleague tells you they have a doctors’ appointment, don’t ask what it’s for, just say “I hope you’re okay”. Don’t put them in the uncomfortable position of having to tell you their illness. If they want you to know, they’ll do so without your inquisitiveness.
15. Treat the cleaner with the same respect as the CEO. Nobody is impressed at how rude you can treat someone below you but people will notice if you treat them with respect.
16. If a person is speaking directly to you, staring at your phone is rude.
17. Never advise until you’re asked.
18. When meeting someone after a long time, unless they want to talk about it, don’t ask them their age and salary;
19. Mind your business unless anything involves you directly - just stay out of it;
20. Remove your sunglasses if you are talking to anyone in the street. It is a sign of respect. Moreso, eye contact is as important as your speech; and
21. Never talk about your riches in the midst of the poor. Similarly, don’t talk about your children in the midst of the barren.
22. After reading a good message try to say “Thanks for the message”.
APPRECIATION remains the easiest way of getting what you don’t have. Happy 2025!
Grim 2024 was not without its wins – Premier
BY DELANA ISLES
As the new year begins, the Turks and Caicos Islands have much to celebrate, although the escalating crime situation is not one of those achievements. In his New Year’s message, Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick acknowledged this concern.
In a heartfelt greeting to citizens, residents, and visitors on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, the Premier provided a candid overview of the challenges that significantly affected the territory last year while also highlighting the substantial victories accomplished in 2024.
“As we close out 2024, we have so many wins to celebrate and be proud of. The new year brings hope and possibilities for continued progress and growth. But, as we celebrate, we are concerned about the upsurge in crime fueled mostly by gang activity.
“These despicable acts have shattered the peace and safety of our communities. To those affected, I offer my sincere condolences and prayers. Our nation stands with you in your time of grief.
“Let me be clear. We will not relent in our fight to dismantle the gangs and bring those responsible for this reign of terror to justice,” Premier Misick stated.
He assured that he, the Governor, and the acting Commissioner are united in this effort, as everything must be done to fight this upsurge in crime.
He mentioned that additional police have been deployed on the streets to keep law-abiding citizens safe, and they are working with regional neighbours to further increase the numbers in 2025.
“This PNP government has invested heavily in national security. We have given the police all that they have asked for. While the Governor has constitutional responsibility for security, my government will do everything that it can to protect our people,” he promised. Stating that the surge in resources for the police will continue for the foreseeable future.
He revealed that the government has spent approximately $150 million over the last threeplus years on national security, including the police and judiciary.
He listed the expanded investigative, technical, and physical capacity of the Royal TCI police Force; deployment of more officers, including from the UK; enactment of new laws to give the police more power to investigate, stop, search, detain, and break up gang activities; as well as the introduction of longer jail time for those convicted of gang, drugs or gun crimes as steps his government has taken to
ensure public safety.
Additionally, they have established a new Gangs, Drugs and Guns Unit to fight serious crimes; installed new CCTV camera systems in strategic spots; deployed a new armored vehicle to help in the fight against crime and established a Mobile Police Station that can move from one community to another.
He said his government will continue to build out the infrastructure to secure people with resources, tougher laws and penalties. Noting that in the upcoming budget, 75 new positions will be added to the police force and $47.4 million earmarked for the police alone.
He further noted that illegal migration has been a problem for a long time, however, the new Asylum Law makes it easier to deport illegal migrants and those who enter the TCI illegally will not get refuge, punishing those who aid and abet persons who are in the territory illegally.
Regarding at-risk young men vulnerable to the influences of gangs, the Premier announced that his government will establish a subsidised youth service program tied to industry-specific scholarships.
“We hope to incentivize school leavers to gain work experience while studying or before they undertake full-time continuing education. All of us must unite in the fight against the criminals who terrorise and destabilise our communities.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE & HOUSING
Pointing to the stimulus cheques that his government has disbursed since coming into office, the Premier said they have fulfilled
their promise to turn around the economy and put the people’s interest first.
“We have given you 4 different stimulus and cost of living support disbursements. The latest $1,000 cost of living relief cheques are now being paid out. We received over 15, 400 and 90% has been approved, and the cheques paid.”
He explained that Turks and Caicos Islanders now have an easier pathway to own land due to his government delivering a comprehensive Crown Land Reform.
“Our civil servants have higher salaries and pensions. We have provided social assistance to the elderly of up to 1 thousand dollars per month. Children who need help are generously supported. The minimum wage has been increased. Small businesses, fisheries and agricultural sectors have received solid support.
“The economy has moved from failing to fast-growing,” the Premier remarked.
He pointed to new infrastructural projects, the establishment of an immigration system that will support the development of TCI, and record investments in safety and security as more wins for the territory and his government.
“These islands have seen unprecedented tourist arrivals. Investor confidence is at historic levels, and we have piloted meaningful Constitutional reform giving us more political autonomy.
“In 2025, we will continue to focus on the people’s priorities,” Misick promised.
He emphasised that safe and affordable housing must be accessible to all citizens, which is why establishing a mortgage corporation is so important.
“This will allow those who
Partnership Agreement for the redevelopment of the Howard Hamilton airport. Tenders are now being assessed, the Premier disclosed.
Over the next five years, the government intends to complete a modern, world-class port system at an estimated investment of $100 million, with all existing ports integrated to facilitate a more seamless and efficient operation.
He said phases one and two of the modernisation of South Dock will be completed in 2025 and the final two phases by 2027. This will be followed by a modern port office building on Grand Turk and the main dock extended to accommodate larger vessels.
Additionally, $10 million is earmarked to modernise the South Caicos Port to support development on that island.
HEALTHCARE AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
might not have the ready cash to get a mortgage for a fixed term at reasonable rates of interest. We will also make special provisions for our young people to own homes. We must create an ownership society.”
REDEVELOPMENT OF PORTS & ROADWAYS
As tourism grows, the territory’s infrastructure, including the airports, has been under severe strain, the Premier acknowledged.
“We have built and fixed miles upon miles of roads across the islands. We have plans to ease congestion on Providenciales. We will build, and fix roads and drains as well as install streetlights across our islands.”
Roads that will be addressed are the Millennium and Leeward Highways, feeder roads to ease the traffic and facilitate traffic flow in emergencies, the ‘Caicos Turnpike’ from Providenciales to South Caicos and repair and upgrade of interior and other roads across all islands.
He said citizens and residents must have safe and cost-effective transportation solutions as they go about their daily lives including work and schools.
“They cannot be left at the mercy of unregulated jitneys. The matter of public transportation will be addressed in a comprehensive way,” he further promised.
Misick revealed that his government has identified funding and is looking at solutions for public transportation that are regulated and safe.
Meanwhile, improvements have been carried out at all airports including Howard Hamilton International in the new year, the TCI Airport Authority will complete the Public-Private
Addressing the ongoing concerns about the standard of care provided by Inter-Health Canada and its long-term Public-Private Partnership, Misick stated that they will provide an update on the way forward in the coming weeks.
He emphasised that access to consistent high-quality healthcare for the people of TCI is not negotiable.
“We will operationalise the National Health Services Authority, strengthen preventative and primary health care service delivery, encourage lifestyle changes to prevent noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, and redesign and manage the treatment abroad program to achieve better results and value for money.”
In 2025, he said, more focus will be placed on the young people of these islands
“The government that I lead, wants to see you engaged in a meaningful way, in all aspects of national development. We are making it easier for you to get higher education and develop skills that can give you a viable career path. Free community college, training through the National Youth Service, apprenticeship and partnerships with the private sector are available options.
“Young people not in school or gainfully employed should be enrolled in a training program.
“We will create service programs that combine training, mentorship and voluntary service where appropriate.”
He is urging young people to take advantage of these opportunities, as it is their birthright.
“You must help to build your country and be prepared to defend its success and sustainability,” the Premier urged.
Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick
Top cop vows to ‘reignite progress’ amidst soaring crime rates
In a hard-hitting New Year’s message, Commissioner of Police (ag) Fitz Bailey, acknowledged the harsh realities of 2024 and outlined a transformative vision for the police force in the TCI for 2025.
“2024 was a difficult year in policing,” Commissioner Bailey admitted. “We lost several young men to gang violence, and innocent lives were felled by the use of illegal firearms.”
Bailey expressed condolences to the bereaved families, acknowledging that words may offer little solace.
However, he assured the public that the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is committed to bringing justice and closure.
The Commissioner commended the majority of law-abiding citizens for their resilience and contributions to the nation’s progress. Yet, he did not shy away from addressing the pressing issue of crime.
“The most pressing of these challenges is the level of criminal activity in our communities,” Bailey stated. “Ongoing gang wars have driven our murder rate to concerning levels.”
Despite these challenges, the Commissioner expressed a firm resolve to combat crime. He outlined a multi-pronged approach, including enhancing law enforcement efficiency, increasing manpower and equipment, integrating advanced technology, and fostering cooperation with local, regional, and international partners.
“We will not rest until the citizens, visitors, and investors of the Turks and Caicos Islands feel safe and secure,” Bailey vowed.
The commissioner unveiled a transformative vision for the police force in 2025, under the banner “Reigniting Progress:
Six arrested in Provo on firearm and ammunition charges
In a series of swift operations aimed at curbing firearmrelated crime and gang activity, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has arrested six individuals, including a minor, on a range of charges. The Serious Crime Unit has been at the forefront of these investigations, which have led to multiple arrests over the past week.
According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, on December 24th, Smaley Louis (24) was charged with Possession of an Imitation Firearm with Intent to Cause Fear and Gang Membership.
Following closely on December 26th, twin brothers Giveson Marc and Guberson Marc (20) were also charged with Possession of an Imitation Firearm with Intent to Cause Fear, Possession of Ammunition, and Gang Membership.
These charges stem from an incident reported on December 19th, 2024, highlighting the rapid response of the Serious Crime Unit in pursuing these cases.
In a separate operation conducted on December 21st, 2024, in Dock Yard, Providenciales, three more individuals were arrested and charged. Rosemirline Pierre (24) and Woodson Gay (23) were both charged with Possession of Ammunition and Illegal Entry. A 15-year-old female was also charged with the same offenses, but due to her age, the police cannot release her name or photograph.
These arrests come amidst growing community concern over gang-related activities and firearm offenses in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
However, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is sending a clear message that such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.
All six accused are expected to appear in the Magistrate’s Court next week.
The investigations are ongoing, and the police are urging anyone with information about these incidents or other criminal activity to come forward. (OLIVIA ROSE)
Transformation Unveiled.”
“It is time for the force to undergo a much-needed metamorphosis and emerge as the reliable, trusted, and professional organisation that our people deserve,” he declared.
The strategic objectives for 2025, Bailey explained, will focus on preventing and reducing crime, tackling local and transnational crime, developing the workforce, optimising technology and collaboration, and working closely with communities and stakeholders.
“Safety and security are not just the responsibility of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force—they are a shared mission, “the commissioner reminded. “Together, we must stand united against crime.”
As the Turks and Caicos Islands enter 2025, the Commissioner’s message is clear: transformation, resilience, and hope are the guiding principles. The police force is committed to “reigniting progress” and ensuring a safer future for all.
January 14 is Nomination Day for 2025 general elections
The General Elections for the Turks and Caicos Islands are scheduled to be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, and all potential candidates must complete the nomination process by Nomination Day, which is Tuesday, January 14, 2025.
To qualify, candidates must register their names, and party symbols, and submit the required deposits.
In a recent statement, the Supervisor of Elections, Lister Dudley Lewis, announced that the Nomination Pack will be available to all candidates intending to participate in the upcoming elections. These packs can be collected during the scheduled briefing for Political Parties, Candidates, and Independent Candidates on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Candidates are advised to thoroughly review the Nomination Pack to ensure they meet all the requirements. Key steps include:
• Payment Voucher: A payment voucher for the $500 nomination deposit must be obtained from the Elections Department in Grand Turk or Providenciales,
or the District Commissioners’ Offices in South Caicos, Middle Caicos, and North Caicos.
• Payment and Receipt: The $500 payment must be made at the government treasury, and the receipt must accompany the nomination documents.
• Photo Identification: Candidates must submit valid photo identification with their nomination papers.
SUBMISSION OF NOMINATION PAPERS
District candidates must lodge their nomination papers with a returning officer in the district where they intend to run, while allisland candidates may lodge their nomination papers with a returning officer in any electoral district. Nomination papers will be accepted on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, during the following hours 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm.
ON NOMINATION DAY, RETURNING OFFICERS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
ED 1 - Grand Turk NorthHouse of Deliverance Centre Lighthouse Road
ED 2 - Grand Turk SouthHJ Robinson High School Auditorium
ED 3 - South CaicosCommunity Centre District Commissioner Off.
ED 4 - Middle & North CaicosKew, Community Centre
ED 5 - Leeward, Providenciales - David Been Premises, Leeward Highway
ED 6 - The Bight, Providenciales - Ianthe Pratt Primary School
ED 7 - Richmond Hill/Cheshire Hall - Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex
ED 8 - Blue Hills, Providenciales - Church of God of Prophecy Church Office
ED 9 - Five Cays, Providenciales - Felix Morley Community Centre
ED10 – Wheeland, Providenciales - Bethany Baptist Church School B.E.S.T/ school
Commissioner of Police (ag) Fitz Bailey
Maskanoo brings colours and flair to Provo
creating
The vibrant streets of Grace Bay were abuzz with excitement during TCI’s largest street festival, Maskanoo 2024.
On December 26, the Grace Bay strip metamorphosed into a pulsating carnival of culture, music, and community spirit.
Locals and visitors alike thronged the area for an unforgettable afternoon and evening brimming with shopping, food, entertainment, crafts, and souvenirs. Vendors lined the streets, offering unique treasures and delectable local cuisine,
a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavours.
We Funk Junkanoo wowed the crowds with their incredible performances, alongside the top local bands Island Boys, Q Bank Lynks, and Provision Band. The
electrifying Raj the Entertainer, DJ Unkle El, and dynamic performers O O’Brien Forbes and Choice kept the energy soaring throughout the night, ensuring the festival remained a vibrant and unforgettable experience.
Nomination pack criteria to be met to qualify as electoral candidates
The Nomination Pack for both party-affiliated and independent candidates participating in the upcoming General Election will be officially launched by Supervisor of Elections Lister Dudley Lewis on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The Pack includes all the essential documents and materials that candidates or political parties need to complete to ensure their proper nomination. It also ensures compliance with the legal requirements necessary to stand for election.
A statement, this week from the Elections Department noted that the pack provides detailed notes on the nomination process and includes a helpful checklist to assist candidates in verifying that their nomination papers and all other required forms are accurately completed before submission to the returning officers.
As per the election timetable, the Governor has issued formal Writs for Election. The list of candidates for each electoral district, including the all-island district, will be published on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
The Supervisor of Elections stated: “While many individuals may express their intention to stand for election, they cannot proceed unless they meet all the requirements outlined in the Nomination Pack. Applicants must submit their correctly completed applications by the deadline and pay the required deposit of $500 into the Government Treasury.”
For further questions regarding the Nomination Pack, please contact the Elections Office at Pond Street, Grand Turk, or the Elections Office at Caribbean Place, Providenciales. You can also reach the office via telephone at 649-338-2304 or 649-246-7742.
North Caicos celebrates a Merry ‘Christmas in the Park’
Despite inclement weather, the fourth annual Christmas in the Park took place on Monday, December 9, at the Casuarina Garden Trail on North Caicos. Schools turned out in full force for the event, with Parrot Cay and Pine Cay ferrying students from the Inez A. A. Point Primary School along with valued supporters.
Cynclair Musgrove, who conceived the initiative four years ago, expressed gratitude for the invaluable support from their
corporate partners.
“What is so heartwarming is the repeat support system that can be counted on mostly without hesitation.”
Although Mother Nature didn’t provide the best conditions for a park gathering, children ranging from preschoolers to high school students bravely embraced the elements. “Children joyfully sang Christmas carols as they heralded in the yuletide season,” Musgrove added.
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, she said every student received gifts as they came off stage. For those who might not have received another gift this Christmas, they left with something to put a smile on their faces
Musgrove noted that Christmas in the Park is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talents of students, mentioning that even teachers took to the stage to sing carols. They also received specially wrapped gifts in appreciation for
their participation.
“Watching the packed park of children of all ages playing merrily is so rewarding. One thing that stood out is the absolute order of our students. They formed queues at the concession stand and the gift table where they waited politely to be served. This speaks volumes to the discipline that is instilled in our youth.”
She said the nonprofit event attracted several hardworking individuals who toiled all day
to ensure success. Musgrove said she is amazed at the little mighty miracles she experienced - from her childhood friend Judy Handfield flying into Miami Florida to join her and her cousin Jackie Musgrove where they selected every gift with tender loving care and Debbie Delancy singlehandedly wrapped over four hundred gifts while Musgrove fought the flu preventing others
South Caicos featured in Wall Street Journal among 10 best places to visit
South Caicos has been highlighted in the Wall Street Journal’s annual list of the 10 best travel destinations for 2025, complete with an image of the Big South gracing the front page of the Journal’s December 21-22, 2024, issue.
In the weekend article, the Journal emphasizes that while many are familiar with the Turks and Caicos Islands for its stunning beaches and luxury hotels on Providenciales, South Caicos offers
a paradise for world-class bone fishing, kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and bird watching.
The article further notes that bypassing the crowds will become much easier with the launch of the first-ever direct South Caicos flight on American Airlines on February 15, 2025. Additionally, the opening of the new Salterra debuts early next year, affording guests with new luxury accommodations.
Minister of Tourism, the Hon,
Josephine Connolly, said the WSJ feature on South Caicos aligns with Experience Turks and Caicos’ mission to promote all of the sister islands and its pillar of inclusive growth.
“Ensuring that all islands and communities benefit from tourism is our top priority. With the anticipated American Airlines flight from Miami to South Caicos and the opening of the new Salterra Resort, we are excited for the potential
development for the island. From tour operators and fishermen to artisans and cooks, there will be new chances for everyone to benefit from the increase in visitation that these new developments will bring,” the minister said.
She added that Experience Turks and Caicos is actively working on creating new products for willing entrepreneurs to seize and turn into successful ventures, encouraging everyone to take advantage of these opportunities.
The WSJ feature is a result of a continued partnership between Experience Turks and Caicos and its US Public Relations Agency J Wade which issues pitches to prominent travel media based on guidance on areas of interest to promote.
WSJ has a print circulation of 1,665,546 people and an online reach of 24,782,351 unique visitors per month.
North Caicos celebrates a Merry ‘Christmas ...
from coming to help.
Musgrove also expressed thanks to Tropical Shipping for helping meet the shipping deadline, which was earlier due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Their sponsorship alleviated some of the substantial costs of air freight.
“Eleen Perez of Global Express took over and competently got the seven extra-large boxes safely home; Wilma Dietche, despite battling the flu, made her
invaluable contribution (thanks Orenico Handfield for delivering it); Yvette Marcellin of Twa Marcellin Wolf is a bonafide Earth Angel! Angela Duncombe of Angie’s Sweet Treats personally volunteered pastries for the Provo students on their arrival (which was paired with bush tea thanks to Miss B from The Promenade); Stephen Morrison of Kiwanis has a story to tell!
“Nothing went according to plan at all for him the entire day, but he never lost his cool. He’s the epitome of ‘service above
self’ Charmaine Clarke is a onewoman army who showed up first and left last; Melissa Straudy Cox put her ‘two foot’ in seasoning the meat - tasty!” Musgrove extended her gratitude to The Premier’s Office, DC Jas Walkin, Experience TCI, FLOW, FORTIS, Provo Water, Ocean Club, Misick and Stanbrook, Lew Shipping, Graceway Supermarket, Port Authority, RJS Builders of Nassau Bahamas, Barbara Gardiner of Nassau Bahamas, Turquoise Rent-A-Car, Twin
Islands Adventure, Bunny Express, Business Solutions, My Car Rental and The Sun Newspaper all for their invaluable partnership in bringing Christmas in the Park back for a fourth year.
Notable mentions included Susan Musgrove, Esau Williams, Leonard Glasgow Snr., Mrs Laidlow, Barbara Hamilton of Misick and Stanbrook, Keisha Gilbert of Ocean Club, kneshia Forbes of Provo Water, Executive Designs, former colleague Almaida Wilson, Lynn Malcolm of TCIG Customs, Bentley
Hamilton of Washington DC. Additionally, she praised TaQuan Herrera for the extraordinary snowman, Santa Claus, and Christmas tree he created using old tyres provided by Durell Landy and TeVaugh Fritz. “Mary Forbes of Parrot Cay suggested the idea which he executed flawlessly! Thanks to Trazel Prospere at the Department of Culture and Dr Della Higgs of The National Trust for recognising and validating this young man’s incredible talent!”
(DELANA ISLES)
The Big South is in the news
The Wall Street Journal recently featured South Caicos among 10 best places to visit in 2025
Year in review Year in review 2024 2024
JANUARY
TCI starts 2024 with strong economy
The Turks and Caicos Islands have begun the new year with a strong economy, underpinned by a robust tourist industry and favourable investor sentiment.
Although 2023 was fraught with a myriad of challenges, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick says the Turks and Caicos Islands has much to be thankful for as he stressed that the territory’s economy continues to grow from strength to strength and reiterated his Government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens and ensuring they are better positioned to benefit from the growth and development underway.
During his New Year’s address to the nation, he said: “As with any year, 2023 has had its share of challenges and opportunities and disappointments and successes; but in the end, we have much to celebrate.
The territory’s leader stressed that his Government would prioritise housing, safety and security, the environment, community renewal, operationalising the credit union, agriculture, and fisheries, MSME with linkages to tourism, road and infrastructure improvements and other areas of national interest.
He urged Turks and Caicos Islanders to “think big” in 2024 to awaken their entrepreneurial spirit - to be ambitious and to take risks.
Homicides went down 30.3% in 2023, detection up significantly
Crime statistics recently revealed by the acting Commissioner of Police, Rodney Adams, showed a 30.3% reduction in murders, and that police have become markedly better at solving these crimes.
At a press conference on December 22, at Police Headquarters in Providenciales, Adams detailed how the crime situation has reduced in 2023, compared to the previous year, the measures they took to achieve this, some of the challenges, and their plans for 2024.
Adams shared that in 2023 there were 23 murders (as of December 22), this is compared to the 33 homicides in 2022, which is a decrease of 30.3%.
He stated: “While last year, the detection rate for homicide stood at 6%, this year, our detection rate is 39%. An increase of 33%.”
TCI Community College records spike in admissions for
2023/2024
The TCI Community College (TCICC) continues to prove itself as the leading tertiary institution in the country, with a significant 29% increase in enrollment for the 2023/2024 academic year.
The substantial surge is nearly double the college’s projected target of 15%, a statement from the college said. The college said the rise in admission is another demonstration that the institution is dedicated to delivering quality education and training in the region. Underfunded judiciary pleads for constitutionally mandated
funding
Section 83(2) of the 2011 Constitution provides: “… The Legislature and the Cabinet shall uphold the rule of law and judicial independence and shall ensure that adequate funds are provided to support the judicial administration in the Islands”.
But it seems the Cabinet is shirking its Constitutional obligations to the judiciary of the Turks and Caicos Islands, propelling Chief Justice, Mabel Agyemang to issue a serious plea for funding during the opening of the 2024 law year.
Addressing lawyers, government and opposition officials, at the opening ceremony on January 4, Agyemang stated: “May I therefore respectfully call for compliance with the constitutional provision which assures the Judiciary of adequate funding – a matter that is inextricably bound with the attainment of judicial independence.
“May I assert that while we understand the need for value for money and recognise that our budgetary needs must be scrutinised as much as possible, we implore the Legislature and Cabinet to not deny us funds we require to operate effectively and to expand access to justice.”
She stated that due to budget cuts and denial of needed funds for their work and programmes, the judiciary is barely functioning, and new much-needed initiatives to increase efficiency have stalled.
Police celebrate new and improved record system
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) recently expressed its appreciation to members of the public who applied for their police records under a new system.
The new application system came online on June 27, 2023, and so far, 27,949 applications have been processed.
In the first ten weeks, RTCIPF churned out some 6618 police certificates, with the help of the newly introduced online platform.
This record-breaking feat came as the Government endeavoured to digitalise several key public services in the Turks and Caicos Islands under the highly touted E-Governance initiative.
“Reaching the Streets” to combat gun violence
In response to the concerning surge in gun violence, particularly affecting young men in the Turks and Caicos Islands, key stakeholders from across various government ministries and departments, in collaboration with Dr David Burrows are taking proactive steps to address this issue head-on.
Mr Gary Knowles along with members from the Christian Council and representatives from the private sector are also playing an integral role in the planning and execution of this rewarding initiative.
The ‘Reaching the Streets Training’, which will be facilitated by Dr Burrows will take place in two phases.
It is anticipated that the ‘Reaching the Streets Training’ will promote community engagement programmes, conflict resolution education, counselling and mental health support, school resource officers, parent and community involvement, curriculum enhancement and youth outreach programmes.
No more landfills in Provo, contract inked for modern recycling centre
The open dump site in Providenciales will be undergoing an extensive makeover, with intentions of making it into a modern waste processing centre, moving beyond the present unsustainable landfill concept.
This is the scope of a three-year contract to be carried out by TCI Green Ecological Corporation Limited (TCI GREEN), a local company owned by Richard and Delroy Gibbs. The company signed a contract with the government on January 5, to conduct the ambitious plan.
The implementation of the three-year contract, coupled with the ongoing CDB Integrated Waste Management Project on Solid Waste Management, will enhance the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of landfill disposal practices and management, as well as protect public health, environmental and landscape aesthetics in the TCI.
To further enhance the Providenciales Landfill, the Environmental Health Department will be working on the perimeter fence to secure the premises of the landfill site.
$35 passenger ‘departure tax’ takes effect on February 1
Passengers departing from all international airports in the Turks and Caicos Islands will have to pay a $35 Departure fee effective February 1, 2024.
Currently, the departure fee or Airport Development Fee (ADF) is $20.
These charges will not be applied to domestic travel passengers, i.e. persons travelling from island to island, but will be applied to all persons other than a child under the age of two departing from an airport under the management and control of the TCI Airport Authority for a destination outside of the territory.
These airports include the Howard Hamilton International Airport, JAGS McCartney International Airport, Norman B Saunders International Airport, and the Clifford Gardiner International Airport.
FEBRUARY
Former deputy premier questions increased airport development fee
Former Deputy Premier, Hon Sean Astwood is questioning why the government has instituted a 75% ($15) increase to the airport development fee for international flights when only one airport accommodates such flights.
The increase from $20 to $35 came into effect on Thursday, February 1, and will be instituted at all airports in the country.
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However, the fee only applies to international flights, as such the fee will only be applied to departing international flights out of the Howard Hamilton International Airport in Providenciales since it is the only airport that has such flights to date.
The former Deputy Premier says the action is not proactive, but premature.
PDM complains of Premier’s conflict of interest to Integrity Commission
Leader of the PDM and the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood met with the Integrity Commission on Thursday regarding a perceived conflict of interest in the House of Assembly concerning two recently passed Gaming Amendment Bills 2023.
The Bills – the Gaming Control and the Gaming Machines Amendment Bills 2023 - came up for their second and third readings in the House of Assembly on January 23. Both Bills were moved by the Premier, Hon Charles Washington Misick, which is where the perceived conflict arose.
During the debate in the House, an objection to the presentation of the Bills by the Premier was raised by Opposition Appointed Member, Hon Alvin Garland.
On Thursday, the Opposition Leader told Weekly News that shortly after the bills were debated, he wrote to the Governor, Premier, Attorney General and the Speaker of the House via email, alerting them again to the potential conflict.
The party leader said he alerted all of them that he was moving to the Integrity Commission with his concern, and on Thursday he formally met with the Integrity Commission for it to be investigated.
Explaining where he perceives the conflict to be, Astwood said: “He [Premier] debated the Bills, but we know he has shares in Casablanca Casino, and it is alleged that he sold those shares.
Women assaulted in jitneys, police advice caution
Two women have reported separate incidences of assault by drivers of vehicles they thought were jitneys.
Police reported this week that the incidents are under investigation and are advising residents to exercise extreme caution when catching jitneys or accepting rides around Providenciales.
Police said one of the women reported to them that she was assaulted by a man driving a small blue car operating in the Blue Hills district.
“Within the past week, the RTCIPF has received two reports of incidents where female members of the public were assaulted after catching what they believed to be jitneys.
“The females in both incidents received injuries either from the assailant who diverted from their stated destination or from jumping out of the moving vehicle.
Glass Shack double murder shocks residents
Residents were left reeling last Friday, February 2, when the news of a shocking murder swarmed social media.
One of the deceased, Marley Higgs, is a well-known Turks and Caicos Islander who has made a positive impact on the country. The other deceased man is reportedly the landlord of the apartment complex where the shooting took place.
Police reported that at about 8:55 pm, a call was placed to the Police Control Room, informing officers that gunshots were heard at a location in Glass Shack, Providenciales.
Upon arrival, officers found the bodies of two males with what appeared to be gunshot wounds.
Another male and a female, who were in the vicinity of the incident, received injuries and were transported to a medical facility
CIBC adopts fresh contemporary look with Caribbean rebrand
The former CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank has been rebranded CIBC Caribbean, as the Canada-based financial institution transforms to a simpler operation as it demonstrates its recommitment to the Caribbean region.
The rebranding exercise also brought a change to the bank’s logo, which can now be found on the exterior of the bank’s buildings as well as the app on cellular devices.
News out of both Jamaica and Barbados indicated that the change to CIBC Caribbean is not just a cosmetic change but a strategic move to position themselves as a modern, forward-thinking institution.
Celebrating the life of Pastor Wayde Coleby
Pastor Wayde Tyrone Coleby has left an indelible mark on the Turks and Caicos Islands and the rest of the world; and for those who knew him, he personified hope and compassion.
On Friday, February 2nd, Pastor Coleby’s impact on the Turks and Caicos Islands was palpably demonstrated when scores of bereaved gathered at the Abundant Life Ministries on Leeward Highway Providenciales to bid farewell, pay their respects, and celebrate the life of the late man of God who transitioned on January 14, 2024.
Hailed as a true servant of God, Reverend Coleby was remembered for his dedication to spreading God’s message of love and compassion, as many shared their personal experiences with him and highlighted his selflessness and commitment to serving others.
Hundreds including family, friends, congregants, members of the clergy, leaders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas, and other dignitaries donned shades of blue, black, and white to say their last goodbyes at a touching home-going ceremony for the beloved husband, father, grandfather, and revered community leader.
UK firearm officers and detectives to be deployed to TCI amid deadly crime wave
Following another deadly crime wave, the Government announced a multi-faceted plan, including deploying more police officers, strengthening borders, and improving intelligence and tactics to tackle the upsurge in the TCI.
As residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands reel from a grisly weekend of bloodshed due to an upsurge in gun
violence in the territory, the government has unveiled a slate of measures to “detect, disrupt, and dismantle criminal networks” in a bid to quell the situation which is seemingly spiralling out of control.
To this end, the government secured a rapid deployment package with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
In the coming days, the UK will deploy a firearms commander and officers, an operations planner, investigators, and a criminal and intelligence analyst to the territory.
UK parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Americas and Caribbean) David Rutley in a brief post, said the office is working with TCI authority to render more assistance.
AG chambers fully staffed and functional – 100% of Crown counsels are Islanders
The Attorney General Chambers is reporting notable successes in its work for 2023, with local and international collaborations named as key in advancing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ legislative framework and compliance.
Addressing the gathering during the opening of the Supreme Court last month, Honourable Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles outlined that the staff have worked assiduously in the past year.
“In 2023 my Chambers continued to discharge our responsibilities to the growth and development of Islander attorneys through the training and moving the applications for the admission of Tamika Simms-Williams in April, Tavania Wilson in July, and Tesharna Williams in December.
Opposition calls State address vague and uninspiring
On the heels of the Government’s State of the State Address, Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood said what the government failed to tell the nation last Monday (February 19) was that “our people are becoming poor in 2024”.
In a livestreamed response to the Premier’s address, the PDM leader questioned many of the Premier’s assertions, expressing that in some instances he only presented one side of the situation as a success story, while ignoring the reality of the other side.
In other instances, Astwood claimed that the assertions made were far from the true picture.
Among the issues the party leader addressed in his rebuttal were illegal migration, crime, national security, salary increases, food prices, development of family islands, and housing for Islanders.
“Last night’s State of the State address was full of the same old empty rhetoric that the people have come to expect from this Premier.
TCI’s economy is stronger than ever- Premier
Over the last three years, the Progressive National Party (PNP) government has steered the TCI on a path of economic prosperity, accelerated infrastructural development, and tackled the structural barriers that deny Turks and Caicos Islanders the chance to live their best lives.
In recognition of his government’s third year in office, since his administration secured a landslide 14 to 1 victory against the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick presented the government’s ambitious vision for the future and outlined a course for continued progress and prosperity during his annual State of the State address delivered at the Yellowman and Sons Auditorium in Grand Turk on Monday, February 19, 2024.
In a very confident tone, he disclosed that the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands is looking “brighter and more certain” and pledged his government’s unwavering
The late Pastor Wayde Tyrone Coleby
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commitment to do “more in 24[2024]” as implied by his tagline.
Misick said his administration has worked diligently to rebuild TCI’s pandemic-bruised economy, decrease unemployment, raise Public Servants salaries, invested heavily in education, infrastructure, and health while providing social assistance for childcare, and support for the elderly and vulnerable.
TCI removed from EU’s Blacklist
-Territory now deemed a “Cooperative Jurisdiction” for tax purposes
The Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahamas, Belize, and Seychelles were recently removed from the European Union’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes.
Fifteen months after being added to the European Union’s dreaded blacklist, the Turks and Caicos Islands has demonstrated sufficient cooperation with the EU’s tax standards and resolved the issues identified to become a compliant jurisdiction.
The EU’s blacklist is a controversial tool used to tackle tax fraud or evasion: illegal non-payment or underpayment of tax, tax avoidance: use of legal means to minimise tax liability and money laundering: concealment of origins of illegally obtained money.
After being blacklisted in 2022, the Turks and Caicos Islands government doubled down on its efforts to improve the exchange of information; reframe a harmful foreign source income exemption regime and ensure effective implementation of substance requirements.
To this end, the government approved funding for an information technology platform to comply with the European Union’s tax benchmarks to increase the territory’s chances of getting off the blacklist.
TCI’s health care contract is too expensive - Premier
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick said the territory’s long-term healthcare contract is too costly and is not working in the best interest of the people.
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.
Speaking at his annual State of the State address to mark his Government’s third year in office on Monday, February 19, 2024, Misick said his Government’s goal is to build a healthcare system that serves the needs of the Turks and Caicos citizens.
He said: “We are giving our people the opportunities to lead healthy, balanced and more productive lives.
“We have a long-term healthcare contract that for various reasons is extremely expensive and does not serve the best interest of our people.
Walkin withdraws candidacy for PNP Leader
– Cites disappointing party politics and fear of repercussions
It was a hectic weekend for the Progressive National Party (PNP) going into and coming out of its convention weekend, drawing a sharp divide in its support base.
At the root of the controversy were the challenges for the leadership of the party, which saw three potential candidates throwing their hats in the ring in the run-up to the big event.
One of those contenders though, Jas Walkin, District Commissioner for North Caicos, withdrew his application for leader of the party.
In a letter to the National General Council (NGC), Walkin rescinded his candidacy, citing a warning by the Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service of possible disciplinary actions and his disappointment in the treatment he received when he made his intentions known to the Premier.
Walkin as District Commissioner is considered a public servant and would have had to resign to continue with his bid.
However, the main grouse that Walkin seemed to have with having to withdraw, appeared to be those surrounding party politics.
This is evidenced in the statements he made to the NGC in his letter, which outlined: “Aware of the risks I pushed ahead and submitted my application. Shortly thereafter, I called the Leader of the Party and told him of my decision. I knew it would disappoint him, but the love and respect I had for him forced me to inform him personally.
“Immediately thereafter I heard a rumor that I had been removed as a delegate of the NGC by the leader (because I was one of his delegates since July 2017). Additionally, that information also brought into question the validity of my application
‘Washy’ returns As PNP leader, beats ‘E Jay’ 88-58
The Progressive National Party (PNP) hosted its annual convention this past weekend, returning the Honourable Charles Washington Misick as its party leader to take it to the next general election.
But the election was not without some drama, as Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders who was at the time the Deputy Premier, Deputy Party Leader as well as the Minister of Finance threw his hat into the ring with gusto, challenging Misick’s position as Leader of the Party.
A risky move that eventually cost him, but before the dust had settled and repercussions dished out, Saunders did manage to put up quite the fight, emerging with 58 votes, to Misick’s 88.
Though Saunders was not the only challenger, he was the only one who came close to Misick’s hold on the party. The other challengers were Dameko Dean, former PNP representative for Wheeland and Jas Walkin, District Commissioner of North and Middle Caicos.
Saunders sacked as deputy premier and finance minister
In a surprising turn of events, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick fired Deputy Premier Hon Erwin “Jay” Saunders from his Cabinet on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, following a challenge to the leadership of the Progressive National Party (PNP).
The Premier’s decision to terminate Saunders’ position in his Cabinet came just days after Saunders unsuccessfully challenged him for the PNP’s leadership at its National General Council held last Saturday.
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The Former Deputy Premier’s termination has since sparked mixed reactions and ignited a firestorm of online comments from residents with some expressing shock and disbelief while others opined that the dismissal was expected.
On Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, Saunders confirmed that he was stripped of his Ministerial portfolio which included Deputy Premier’s Cabinet and would be joining the PNP’s backbench in the House of Assembly via a WhatsApp chatroom which he established at the beginning of his tenure as a Cabinet Minister to foster greater communication with the local media.
“Fyi, it’s official…it means, “I’ll be joining the others in the back bench,” Saunders told media operatives.
AA aircraft lands in TCI for medical emergency, passenger dies
An American Airlines aircraft made an emergency landing in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Wednesday evening after a female passenger fell ill mid-flight.
According to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the commercial flight was en route from the Dominican Republic to Charlotte, USA when the passenger became unwell.
The incident was reported to the police control room shortly after 6 pm via a call from the Air Traffic Control Tower requesting medical assistance for a 41-year-old female, who at the time was receiving Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
“A medical team, along with police units, were dispatched, and the patient was transported to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, where she died.”
TCI’s first Special Needs Department launched
A new era of educational support and empowerment dawned for children with special needs in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday, February 22nd, as the Department of Special Education Needs Services was officially launched under the Ministry of Education.
This initiative represents a significant milestone in the educational landscape for the islands, signifying the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society where all children can thrive and reach their full potential.
With a vision to provide comprehensive and inclusive education for all children, the Department of Special Education Needs Services aims to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education services tailored to their unique needs.
The department’s overarching goal is to establish a Special Needs Centre, a hub of support, resources, and expertise for individuals with special needs.
MARCH
Musgrove and Parker freed of rape and kidnapping convictions
The court of appeal has freed Shavez Musgrove – who along with Andrew Parker – was tried and convicted of kidnapping and rape offenses and sentenced to 25 years in prison.
The two were convicted on December 3, 2021, after a trial by jury.
The appellate court delivered its verdict on Musgrove’s appeal last February 29, in a Providenciales courtroom, and the written decision was uploaded shortly to the TCI Judiciary’s website.
TCI Hospital (InterHeath Canada Hospital)
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On October 19, 2023, the appeals for both men were heard, and upon the completion of submissions by both counsels, the Crown conceded that Parker’s appeal should be allowed, and his conviction and sentences quashed.
Upon that concession and after a consideration of the evidence, the justices allowed his appeal, setting his convictions and sentences aside, with no order for a retrial. Similarly, the court has decided to quash Musgrove’s convictions and sentences.
The court noted that having regard to the passage of almost seven years since the incident is alleged to have taken place, and the destruction of some of the physical evidence due to a fire at the exhibit room, it would not be in the interest of justice for a new trial to be ordered.
The judgement cited that the trial judge failed to direct the jury properly on the law relating to the offences.
No bad blood between Premier and former deputy premier
In a move to quell rumours of lingering animosity following their recent political rivalry, Premier Charles Washington Misick, and former Deputy Premier Erwin Jay Saunders have publicly declared that there is no bad blood between them and that they will continue to work together for the betterment of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Premier Misick has made it pellucid that there is no lingering animosity between him and the former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance who challenged him in a bruising contest for the leadership of the Progressive National Party (PNP).
The Premier broke his silence on the matter during his address at the swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, for the new Deputy Premier Hon Jamell Robinson, and the new Cabinet Minister of Public Safety and Utilities Hon Kyle Knowles.
Acknowledging the former Deputy Premier’s presence at the ceremony, Misick emphasised that they are still on the same team and will continue to work together for the betterment of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
TCI ramps up border security as thousands escape Haitian jails
A state of emergency was declared in Haiti over the weekend following jailbreaks that resulted in some 3000 dangerous criminals, including murderers and kidnappers, escaping back onto the streets of the poor and violence-racked nation.
On the heels of this news, the TCI’s National Security Council met to strategise ways to combat an impending flood of illegal migrants into the country.
In an immediate response to the developing situation, the Security Council activated a Strategic Coordinating Group effective Monday, March 4.
The group is responsible for carrying out a comprehensive strategy on land, air, and sea. This includes the deployment of marine assets, the co-opting of air support, and additional land patrols.
The Council agreed to continue with Operation Shepherd, which is a joint operation between the Royal TCI Police Force and the TCI Regiment. This joint operation will continue to tackle serious and organised crime and provide reassurance to communities through stepped-up patrols and other operations.
Additionally, the TCI Airports Authority and local air carriers were instructed to discontinue normal flight operations into Haiti. As such, InterCaribbean has suspended operations in Port-Au-Prince and Caicos Express has suspended their flight operations in Cap-Haitien. Flight operations into Haiti will continue to be monitored.
The government said the primary objective of these measures is to fortify and ensure the safety of the country’s borders and to protect the citizens, residents, and visitors of the Turks and Caicos Islands
North Caicos church flattened by fire on day of worship
– Pastor Suspects Arson
As parishioners prepared for worship last Sunday morning, they were met with the devastating news that their place of worship was up in flames, leaving it completely gutted.
The Grace Temple Church of God in Christ in Kew, North Caicos is no more, after a fire - suspected to be arson by some – demolished the building.
Police said when firefighters arrived on the scene, they saw a section of the building in flames and took immediate steps to ensure public safety. Ascertained that no one was in the building, emergency personnel then sought to evacuate nearby properties as a precautionary action.
The resident pastor of the church is Reverend Courtney Missick, who is convinced that the church was deliberately set ablaze.
New deputy premier and newest Cabinet minister sworn-in
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weapon, inflicting bodily injury and taking away a motor vehicle, according to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
The charges stemmed from an incident at Parade Avenue, Providenciales, on Thursday, August 17, 2023.
Judge rules in favour of same-sex couple – Constitutional
Right To Work Upheld, Irrespective Of Sexual Orientation
The Supreme Court has handed down a landmark judgment, granting Timothy Haymon – who is married to Richard Sankar - the right to work in the TCI under the Constitution as awarded to any married couple.
Justice Anthony Gruchot handed down the written judgment this past Tuesday, March 12, having heard the case since November 2022.
Haymon and Sankar were the plaintiffs in the matter, seeking several declarations – related to same-sex marriage in the Islands, the right to work and fundamental rights under the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution.
In essence, the details of the case are that Sankar – a citizen of the TCI as of May 19, 2021 - married his partner on November 2, 2020, in Florida. On August 16, 2021, Haymon – who was already in possession of a homeowner permit - applied for a residence permit as per the Immigration Ordinance reflecting his spousal relationship to Sankar. On October 1, 2021, the director of immigration refused the application.
In his judgment, Gruchot wrote: “The limiting of the grant of a spousal resident permit to only heterosexual couples in my view is discriminatory but not on the basis of marriage.
“It fails to grant equal rights to homosexual couples who are in a permanent and committed relationship.”
The judge said in his view, there is no doubt that the refusal to grant Haymon the equivalent right to a residence permit as a heterosexual spouse (whether or not they were married in the TCI) offends the protection afforded by section 16 of the Constitution, given the expressed protection afforded on the basis of sexual orientation.
The Turks and Caicos Islands’ new Deputy Premier is Hon Jamell Robinson and the newest Cabinet member is Hon Kyle Knowles.
Following a controversial Cabinet shuffle, they were sworn into their new positions in Premier Washington Misick’s Cabinet on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
Hon Robinson has replaced Hon Erwin Jay Saunders as the Deputy Premier following Saunders’s removal from Cabinet on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, after his unsuccessful challenge to Premier Washington Misick for leadership of the Progressive National Party at its recently concluded National General Council.
Robinson will also retain his position as Minister with responsibility for the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, while Knowles is the new Minister for Public Safety and Utilities.
The ministers recited the Oath of Office, which was administered by the Acting Governor HE Anya Williams.
After the oath was taken, the new ministers gave brief speeches in which they expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands and outlined their commitment to working hard to improve the lives of the citizenry.
Two men charged with kidnapping
Two men will face the courts soon to answer to several charges relating to kidnapping and weapon possession.
Wilfredo Williams, 32, and Jonathan Alexander Handfield, 33, both of Providenciales, have each been charged with the following: kidnapping, robbery, possession of an offensive
Govt enhances border security in wake of Haiti’s unrest
The government has increased shoreline patrols and vigilance in the outer islands, intensified presence with day and night patrols, and embedded border force officers into operations, as part of its efforts to enhance border security in the Turks and Caicos Islands
To mitigate any threats of illegal immigration, guns and organised crime stemming from the ongoing unrest in Haiti, the Turks and Caicos Islands government has announced a series of proactive measures to enhance border security.
To this end, Operation Verify has been activated to scrutinise high-risk vessels entering Providenciales and Grand Turk ports.
FortisTCI proposes 6% electricity rate hike
FortisTCI, the sole electricity provider for the Turks and Caicos Islands, has proposed a 6% increase in electricity rates, effective April 1, 2024. The government of the Turks and Caicos Islands is currently reviewing the proposal.
The Energy and Utilities Department has been analysing the information provided by FortisTCI over the past three weeks and is seeking further details that may aid in the justification of the increase.
According to the government, FortisTCI made its application on February 14, 2024, and the government must complete its review and provide a response to the proposal by March 30, 2024.
(From left to right): New Deputy Premier Hon Jamell Robinson, Premier Hon C. Washington Misick and Minister of Public Safety and Utilities Hon Kyle Knowles.
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The new Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, Hon Kyle Knowles, stated that the government will “continue to exercise due diligence in its examination of the case put forward by FortisTCI, but the timeframe is very tight”.
Richard Sankar alleges discrimination in pending lawsuit
Richard Sankar, Director and Broker with Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty has publicly responded to former premier Michael Misick who this week called for him to be deported.
Sankar had a long-standing case against the former Minister of Border Control, the Governor, Attorney General and others, for a review of his application for Turks and Caicos Islander status. He won that case in May 2021.
This week, he and his spouse won a claim for his samesex partner to work in the Islands, in line with permissions granted under the TCI Constitution.
This week, Misick took to his official social media page to blast the Real Estate Broker – who once worked for the Misick family’s real estate business.
The former premier called on the government to revoke Sankar’s Turks and Caicos Islander status, claiming that it was obtained by fraud.
Misick’s salacious claims – while not backed by evidence of any kind – are that the man married a woman for Islander status, allegedly never consummated it, then married a man to give him status.
On March 14, Sankar through his attorney Tim Prudhoe responded to the claims, stating that he married the local woman in 2008, and their divorce became final in 2020. He stated that at no stage during that period up-to-any, including the Decree Absolute, was any evidence presented either by or on behalf of my then wife that the marriage was not valid or somehow otherwise void.
Sankar stated: “If, before posting incorrect and incomplete information on social media, Michael Misick had taken steps to ask me about the facts then I would have been able to provide them. I now do so.”
NJS Francis Building reopens its doors to Parliament
After five and a half years, the hurricane-hit NJS Francis Building which houses members of the House of Assembly in the nation’s capital of Grand Turk has been fully renovated and reopened with lots of pomp and fanfare.
During a ceremonial event on Thursday, March 21, members of the Assembly, the acting Governor, the chief justice, and special invited guests, were welcomed to the newly renovated building by Speaker of the House, Honourable Gordon Burton.
The reopening of the building is a significant milestone symbolising the culmination of concerted governmental efforts aimed at reinstating the Honourable House to its esteemed place of operation.
Due to Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the building suffered extensive damages, and was subsequently vacated. This prompted a move to the Helena Jones Robinson High School’s auditorium in 2018, where the members held Assembly until this past Thursday.
APRIL
Surge in tourism causing water woes for TCI residents
Due to an increase in tourism and local demand, residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands are experiencing water shortages, including reduced water pressure and water
outages.
Residents in the TCI are already dreading the shortages which are expected to last until the end of April 2024, according to the Provo Water Company Limited
Provo Water has implemented nightly water restrictions from 9:30pm to 6:00am through the end of April 2024 to fill the Suzie Turn tank, which supplies two-thirds of the island’s demand.
During this time, customers will experience reduced pressure and possible water outages at higher elevations.
In a notice to consumers on Monday, March 18, the company encouraged property owners to utilise a backup cistern where possible and to conserve water usage during this time.
Former Tourism Minister Ralph Higgs calls DMMO a big flop
All-Island candidate for the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is once again expressing his displeasure at the dismantling of the Tourist Board and the Destination Marketing and Management Organisation’s (DMMO) alleged lack of performance.
Now familiarly known as ‘Experience Turks and Caicos’, Honourable Ralph Higgs in statements this week said not much is going on with the organisation, one year since the Tourist Board was dismantled and DMMO assumed its role.
Higgs also blasted the now former Interim Chief Executive Officer, Raquel Brown, whom he said has failed to achieve the organisation’s mandate.
In a strongly worded statement on the matter Higgs alleged: “It has been almost one year since the ill-advised closure of the Tourist Board, one of the country’s oldest and most recognised institutions.
“Its replacement, the DMMO/Experience Turks and Caicos, has fallen far short of the Government’s, Turks and Caicos Islanders’ and industry’s expectations.
“All of the grand ideas and promises associated with the rollout of the DMO have so far turned out to be nothing but fluff.
Still no date on Misick corruption trial
Five months after two of the seven corruption accused were found guilty of bribery and money laundering, the judiciary has still not delivered a new judge or a new date for the retrial of the remaining three defendants.
Efforts to make contact with the judiciary over the past months have all been futile, and no communication has been made to the public about the upcoming trial.
Currently, former Premier Michael Misick, his brother Chalmers Misick and former minister of government, McAllister Hanchell are being kept in limbo as to their fate.
In a trial that began in December 2015, it is now the end of March 2024 and only four of the remaining seven defendants have been able to move on from the decade-long accusations of corruption, bribery and land flipping.
The Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam has denied a rate increase request from FortisTCI and its subsidiary Turks and Caicos Utility Limited (TCU).
However, the Company maintains that the proposed revised electric rates are necessary and warranted due to rising costs.
The proposed increase would have raised electricity rates in the Turks and Caicos Islands by 6%, which would have amounted to an additional $2 to $15 per month for most residential customers.
FortisTCI submitted the proposal on February 14, 2024,
citing rising demand in the TCI economy and the need to maintain reliable service.
In her decision, Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam said she remains committed to ensuring that the statutory process is followed and that utility rates are fair and competitive.
“Should FortisTCI seek to challenge this decision, in accordance with the Electricity Ordinance, they have 21 days within which to request that the Governor appoints a person to hold a public inquiry in respect of their proposal for a rate increase”, a statement from the Government said on Friday, March 29, 2024.
Christian Council calls gay couple’s ruling contradictory
The Christian Council and the Grand Turk Ministerial Fraternal have issued a sharply worded statement on the recent court ruling involving Richard Sankar and his husband Timothy Haymon’s right to work in the TCI.
On March 12, the Supreme Court handed down a landmark judgement, granting Haymon the right to work in the TCI under the Constitution as awarded to any married couple.
the Turks and Caicos Islands Christian Council issued a statement on the ruling, calling for the Attorney General and the Government to appeal Justice Anthony Gruchot’s controversial ruling.
They stated: “We are deeply troubled by this ruling; we note that the judge maintains that the laws in TCI does not allow same-sex marriages.
“We note that the judge in setting out his reasoning was careful to say that denying marriage to same-sex couples is in and of itself not discriminatory.
The body questions how a law of the TCI can be set aside in favour of a minority group.
“We are not stating that minorities do not have rights but how can their rights be greater than the masses who stand on the law of the land?
“We cannot reconcile how it is that the same Constitution that defines marriage can be used to support what seems contradictory.”
The council said it cannot accept that the rights of the lawabiding majority should and can be set aside.
Govt to recruit and retain local teachers with recent pay hike
The Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) is encouraging more islanders to pursue careers in teaching as it continues to face challenges with recruiting and retaining teachers.
The TCI is still grappling with teachers’ shortage, a challenge which was exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, HE Anya Williams, during a recent interview on Financially Speaking with host Mr Drexwell Seymour explained that the government is still looking to recruit and retain more teachers.
She said: “Here in Turks and Caicos Islands we continue to promote teaching as a key priority area for us for study, it’s one of the areas where we guarantee scholarships every year, but unfortunately, our take-up is not as high as we need it to be because we are opening new public schools and we are increasing the size of our classrooms, because more persons want to get their children into public schools because of our quality of education and learning.
“But we’re struggling to match the numbers in terms of local teachers, and so teachers have been a real challenge for us to recruit with nurses and doctors and so on, we were also encouraging Turks and Caicos Islanders to pursue those areas.”
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contribution rates as of April 1, 2024.
The new contribution rates are 12% for the private sector, 9.15% for public officers, and 10% for self-employed persons.
These increases are the result of an actuarial review conducted in 2019 which is being implemented over three years since 2022.
The NIB provided a breakdown of how the contributions will be paid from employers, employees, and self-employed persons.
As of April 1, 2024, the new monthly payments for the private sector is 12%, this will see Employers paying 6.5% and Employees paying 5.5 %.
This represents an additional increase of .50% for both the employer and employee.
Premier instructs AG to appeal judgement in gay couple ruling
Richard Sankar and his husband Timothy Haymon won the landmark judgement in their bid for equal access to work opportunities in the TCI afforded heterosexual couples.
Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon Charles Washington Misick “instructed the Attorney General Chambers to appeal” the ruling delivered last month by Supreme Court Justice Anthony Gruchot.
He confirmed to the Weekly News on Thursday, April 11, that he believes it “has been done”. Gruchot, who assumed his appointment as Judge of the Supreme Court of the TCI on September 1, 2022 - an appointment approved by former Governor Nigel Dakin - first heard the case brought by Richard Sankar and his spouse Timothy Haymon in November the same year.
The couple alleged discriminatory practices by the former Director of Immigration, in his denial of Haymon’s right to work as the spouse of a Belonger.
UK prosecutor appointed to head embattled office of the DPP
The Governor has appointed King’s Counsel Phillip Bennetts to serve as Director of Public Prosecutions of the TCI.
The announcement was made on Thursday, April 11, with Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam stating that the appointment came on the heels of consultations with the Premier, Leader of the Opposition and the Judicial Services Commission.
She said the recruitment process was competitive, and that Bennetts brings with him a strong track record as a prosecution counsel in serious and complex criminal cases. One of Bennetts’s significant cases concluded in July 2023, with a unanimous guilty verdict for the accused. In that case, the male defendant was accused of strangling his girlfriend with a bungee cord on a Peru holiday, then burying her body at his grandmother’s home.
At the conclusion of the trial, the defendant was jailed for life in the landmark legal case.
Commemorative stamps
celebrate St Thomas Anglican Church bicentennial
Issue of commemorative stamp in two denominations to celebrate the bicentenary of the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk
The Postal Services this week issued commemorative stamps in two denominations of ten-dollar souvenir sheets and fifty-cent sheetlets depicting the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk.
The stamps were produced and issued for the commemoration of the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk bicentenary celebration which took place on December 21, 2023.
The stamps went on sale to the public last Monday, April 8, at the George Brown Post Office Building on Airport Road, Providenciales and at the Grand Turk Post Office at the Peter Williams Building on Church Folly.
The Postal Services said it is pleased that it was able to accommodate the request of Cannon Mark Kendall by securing the production and issuance of the stamps.
They also said they were pleased to be associated with the Saint Thomas Anglican Church on Grand Turk in its achievement of such a momentous milestone.
Parliament passes ‘historic’ $498.6m National Budget
A colossal national spending bill totalling $498,665,638 for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, geared towards expanding the economy, stimulating growth and development, and improving social and environmental conditions was approved in the House of Assembly this week.
The 2024/2025 budget which sets the wheels in motion for the new financial year to formally begin and dictates spending for various ministries within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government was passed on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 1:53 am.
The initial expenditure estimates were tabled at $485m, an increase of $48.3m over last year’s budget.
However, a change of $13m was raised on the floor of the House, to accommodate an allocation for the mortgage corporation.
The largest portion of the budget, $413.5m, will be spent on recurrent expenditures, such as salaries, wages, goods and services. $7.3m will be allocated for non-recurrent expenses, and $63.7m will go towards capital development, such as land acquisition.
TCI’s GDP projected to grow by 4% in 2024
Driven by booming tourism, construction, and real estate sectors, the Turks and Caicos Islands Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to grow by 4% in 2024. This was revealed by Premier Hon Charles Washington
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Misick during his 2024/2025 budget speech in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
Misick said the projections were made by local analysts and international rating agencies who believe that if the strong performance in the tourism, construction, and real estate sectors remains, Real GDP will continue to grow by about four per cent in 2024.
Sabrina Green unveils new book ‘Migrant Tales’
Sabrina Green explores the human journey of survival and hope for migrants entering the TCI in her new book titled ‘Migrant Tales - When Survival Is The Only Option’ set for release later this year.
A poignant collection of short stories, ‘Migrant Tales’ delves into the lives of migrants seeking better opportunities and survival in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Green said the book is a vivid tapestry of human resilience, capturing the challenges, dreams, and triumphs of individuals navigating the complexities of migration.
From tales of human trafficking, exploitation, perseverance, and winning against all odds to poignant reflections on the meaning of home, ‘Migrant Tales’ invites readers to embark on an emotional journey that transcends borders and illuminates the universal quest for hope and belonging.
Record number of UK & European visitors to TCI
UK and European passengers to Turks and Caicos Islands have more than doubled this year, with March seeing more than a 100% uptick in arrivals, setting a new record.
Experience Turks and Caicos reported this week that the increase in air arrivals to the TCI, signals a positive development in the territory’s tourism landscape.
“From January to March 2024, the Turks and Caicos Islands welcomed 3,946 arrivals from the UK and Europe, representing a substantial 105.4% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
“This rise can largely be attributed to the commencement of Virgin Atlantic’s non-stop flight from Heathrow, London to Providenciales, which commenced operations on November 4, 2023,” the organisation noted.
Gay Couple awarded 50% court costs, but no win in substantive judgement
The judge in the Richard Sankar and Timothy Haymon case against the government has awarded the couple 50% of the requested cost, following a judgement delivered early last month.
However, Justice Anthony Gruchot was careful in that decision to elucidate that no one won anything substantive in the overall case, as Haymon (first plaintiff in the matter) will not be receiving a residence permit.
The hearing on costs was held, and the decision was delivered, last Monday, April 8, in a Providenciales courtroom.
Independent inquiry into proposed 6% electricity rate increase –Fortis
In a move to ensure the reasonableness of its proposed rate increase, FortisTCI, the Turks and Caicos Islandsbased utility company, has requested the appointment of an
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independent inquirer to review its proposal.
The company’s request for a 6% rate increase across service territories was submitted to HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam on February 14, 2024.
The Governor subsequently denied the request, announcing that should FortisTCI seek to challenge this decision, in accordance with the Electricity Ordinance, they have 21 days within which to request that the Governor appoints a person to hold a public inquiry in respect of their proposal.
The Governor noted that she is prepared to engage in this process to ensure that any rate adjustments are not only justified but transparent and in the best interest of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The proposed increase would raise electricity rates in the range of $2 to $15 per month for most residential customers.
New top cop vows to tackle crime and restore public trust
The New Commissioner of Police Mr Edvin Martin has pledged to work with all stakeholders to tackle crime and violence in the TCI, and transform the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) into a more effective, efficient, and accountable organisation that prioritises public safety.
Martin, sworn into the position on Monday, April 22, 2024, has vowed to make the RTCIPF a force of competence, professionalism, and integrity, and to work with stakeholders and community members to build a national coalition against criminality in all its forms.
“Colleagues, we must do everything possible to inspire confidence in our police force and improve our legitimacy as gatekeepers of law and order,” said Commissioner Martin.
Businessman booted
off of Crown Land – Appellate Court overturns decision granting him right of occupation
Businessman Gilbert Selver has 90 days to vacate three parcels of Crown land in Providenciales, following a decision by the Appellate Court last week.
The case was initially heard before Justice Carlos Simmons and a decision in Selver’s favour was delivered on April 29, 2022, whereby the judge made certain findings against the government.
The matter surrounds three parcels of land - 60602/429 (“429”), 60602/430 (“430”) and 60602/431 (“431”) – upon which Selver took occupation, purportedly, according to the government, without lawful authority and without obtaining the requisite leases.
In its decision on April 17, the Court of Appeal overturned Simmons’ ruling and affirmed the Government’s position on critical issues involving Crown land procedures and the implications of the Crown Land Ordinance.
Judges have to impose prison sentences for all firearm convictions – Court Of Appeal
Judges in the TCI will now be required to impose a custodial sentence (imprisonment) on those convicted of firearm offences, after the Court of Appeal found that several Supreme Court sentences were unlawful and too lenientmany of which involved American tourists.
The Appellate Court’s decision was handed down this week, following a hearing last January, in which the Attorney General sought the opinion of the higher court to confirm the true position of the law as it relates to the application of ‘exceptional circumstances’ in firearm cases.
In five separate cases - David O’Connor, Alex Guzman,
Alec Keith Nash, Michael Grimm and Michael Williamsall within a two-year period, the Supreme Court found that there were exceptional circumstances. Four of the offenders were fined and one was given a custodial sentence below the mandatory minimum.
The decision handed down by the Court of Appeal clarified the law, affirming that where exceptional circumstances exist the court has no authority to impose a non-custodial sentence.
The Appellate Court stated that judges can impose a custodial sentence for a term and a fine that is fair and just in the circumstances, consistent with the exceptional circumstances, however, it must give its reasons for doing so, including any reduction in sentence.
Two American tourists charged with possession of ammunition
Eyes are now on the two American tourists charged this week with illegal possession of ammunition at two ports of entry in the TCI, particularly given the court of appeal ruling that all convictions under the Firearm Ordinance carry custodial sentences.
The two men are 31-year-old Tyler Scott Weinrich of Virginia – who was picked up at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre – and Ryan Tyler Watson, 40, of Oklahoma, arrested at the Howard Hamilton International Airport on April 12. Both men were in possession of ammunition.
Another American tourist, Bryan Hagerich is also awaiting a hearing on his possession charge.
In a significant ruling last week, the Court of Appeal certified that the Supreme Court of the TCI does not have the authority to impose non-custodial sentences on persons convicted under the Firearm Ordinance of the TCI.
The decision came following several cases where American tourists were given a slap on the wrists after being found in possession of ammunition, under the guise of ‘exceptional circumstances’, fined a severely reduced amount, and sent on their way.
MAY
Bomb hoaxes at TCI Airports under investigation
– Police investigating with regional and international partners
A series of bomb threats at the JAGS McCartney and Howard Hamilton International Airports over the past week is currently under investigation by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) and its regional and international partners.
The first threat was issued last Friday, April 26, at the JAGS McCartney Airport in Grand Turk, causing an immediate shut down of operations at the facility by the Airports Authority.
At 4:48 pm last Friday, the Airports Authority received a bomb threat via email and alerted the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
First responders were immediately deployed to the airport and evacuated the terminal building and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of travellers and staff.
No bomb was found, and investigations were immediately. Two hours later, the all-clear was given by the police and the airport resumed operations.
However, the following day at about 5:18pm, another threat was made to the Grand Turk Airport, forcing its closure and subsequent inspection by police. Once again, the threat was proven to be false, and shortly after operations resumed at the facility.
TCIG warns visitors that guns and ammunition are forbidden
The Turks and Caicos Islands government has issued a stern warning to visitors, reminding them that it is illegal to bring guns or ammunition into the country and that those who continue to do so would face stiff penalties.
This comes as several American travellers have been arrested in recent months and are currently facing stiff prison time for bringing guns and bullets into the islands.
Like many other Caribbean countries, the Turks and Caicos Islands is pushing back against the tsunami of weapons flooding the islands to curb gun-related crime.
The penalties for gun and ammunition offenses in the Turks and Caicos are severe, carrying a mandatory minimum custodial sentence of 12 years, plus a fine.
Mother apologises for child’s false kidnapping allegations
A Grand Turk mother has expressed sincere apologies to concerned residents and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force for false allegations made by her 12-year-old son last weekend.
The child spun a fictitious tale that he and his friend concocted after he was late getting home Saturday evening. Fearful of repercussions from his mother, he told her that he had been grabbed near some bushes on his way home by an unknown Haitian man.
The minor said he was walking along an area known as The Quarry on May 4 when he was snatched.
He claimed to have been forced into a vehicle, bound and taken to the Middle Street area, then had woken up in an abandoned building, untied his bound hands and feet and escaped.
A female relative subsequently lodged a report at the Grand Turk Police Station on Sunday, and investigations were immediately launched. The child was also taken to the hospital for medical attention.
He later admitted to the hoax in the presence of his mother and the police.
“We
will not let fear divide us” -TCI Leaders Condemn Bomb
Threats
Premier Charles Washington Misick and Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam have strongly condemned the recent bomb threats made against the Turks and Caicos Islands and other Overseas Territories.
The Turks and Caicos Islands is facing an unprecedented amount of bomb threats, which have disrupted the JAGS McCartney International Airport and Howard Hamilton International Airport as well as schools.
These threats are allegedly coming from individuals who are demanding the release of several US visitors awaiting sentencing for firearms and ammunition charges.
In an address to the nation on Monday, May 6, 2024, Premier Hon Charles Misick called on the people of the islands to remain calm and vigilant. He assured that the government is doing everything it can to protect the safety and security of its citizens.
In a major victory for border security, the Turks and Caicos Islands have successfully seized the Marassa Express, a vessel valued at $120,000, used for human smuggling.
The forfeiture of the vessel Marassa Express was secured following a recent court decision.
This triumph comes after a collaborative effort by multiple
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government agencies, spearheaded by the Immigration and Customs Departments, and supported by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), the Office of the Department of Public Prosecution, and Crown legal representative Dr Angela Brooks.
The case originated from an intelligence-led operation on West Caicos in February 2023, leading to the interception of 90 migrants and the subsequent prosecution of Alexis Georgis and Meralien Merlien.
The duo was convicted on several charges related to unlawful entry and failure to report to immigration officials. Georgis and Merlien were handed hefty fines and potential imprisonment.
PDM calls out government on “Secret Dealings” with Carnival
Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood has accused the PNP Government of colluding with Carnival Corporation while leaving those whose livelihood depends on tourism in Grand Turk in the dark.
The accusation comes on the heels of a recent town hall meeting the government hosted in the nation’s capital (May 9) to address matters pertaining to the Grand Turk Cruise Centre Operations.
It was promised that accurate and relevant information to facilitate an open dialogue would have been shared at that meeting.
However, according to the PDM leader, those in attendance came away with nothing substantive as to the rumoured closure of the cruise centre if Carnival’s demands are not met by the government.
Another gang member arrested, slapped with multiple offences
Twenty-year-old James Simon, a resident of Dock Yard, Providenciales, appeared in court on Monday, May 13 charged with a series of firearm-related and gang offences.
Simon is charged with one count of robbery; one count of gang membership; one count of possession of a firearm for the benefit of a gang; and one count of possession of ammunition for the benefit of a gang.
Police said the charges followed investigations into a robbery that took place at the parking lot of a Casino where three males robbed a victim.
Police fatally shoot thief, as others escaped
Police are on the hunt for three men involved in a robbery in the Snake Hill area this week, after they opened fire on police before fleeing the scene.
Reports are that sometime around 9:02pm on Tuesday, May 14, the Police Control Room received a call about an armed robbery at a location in Blue Hills, Providenciales. While at this location, police received further information at 9:10pm of another robbery involving armed males who had robbed a victim of a vehicle and other valuables.
Officers responded to the second report and spotted the stolen vehicle being driven in the Snake Hill district. The marked police unit attempted to bring the stolen car to a stop, but the suspects confronted the police, shooting at them, resulting in the discharge of police firearms.
One of the suspects was struck and succumbed to his injuries.
Brian Hagerich gets 12 months suspended sentence and reduced fined
Justice Tanya Lobban-Jackson has managed to find a way around the furore surrounding the Americans charged with illegal ammunition possession, by lawfully imposing a custodial sentence in Brian Hagerich’s case but suspending said sentence on certain conditions.
Hagerich arrived at court on Friday morning (May 24) fairly composed, surrounded by family, with local and US media in attendance. It was a signal occasion, with the eyes of United States Authorities and its citizens firmly trained on the Turks and Caicos Islands.
In her sentencing she acknowledged that the act was unintentional, that Hagerich is a licensed firearm holder in the US and an otherwise upstanding citizen.
He has been ordered to pay a fine of $6,700 (reduced from $10,000) or be imprisoned for one year for non-payment of the fine.
US Congressional Delegation meets with TCI officials over ammunition arrests
A bipartisan US Congressional delegation met with Turks and Caicos Islands officials earlier this week to discuss the recent arrests of five US tourists for ammunition possession.
The delegation sought a resolution to bring the tourists home but reported little progress after the meeting. Talks centred around the well-being of five US nationals currently facing charges, and the legal process in the islands, with US officials expressing concern over the mandatory minimum sentencing for such offenses.
According to a post-meeting statement issued by the TCI government, the US delegation raised concerns over the wellbeing of and sought clarification on the territory’s legal process. However, to maintain the integrity of the legal process, the Governor advised it would not be appropriate to facilitate the delegation’s request to meet with the Chief Justice.
TCI’s political leaders failed to reach a consensus on a crucial aspect of constitutional reform during a high-stakes meeting convened by the Governor, HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam on May 21st.
This comes as she convened a meeting with Hon Premier; Hon Leader of the Opposition; Hon Attorney General; Sir Jeffrey Jowell KC and the FCDO’s Deputy Director Adam Pile to finalise the package of constitutional reform so it may be submitted to the Privy Council in July.
Also in attendance was Deputy Governor HE Anya Williams.
The deadlock centres on the timeline for transitioning to a fully elected House of Assembly, a key reform agreed upon in principle during bipartisan talks with the UK government last October.
In the wider package of constitutional reform, all other major issues have been agreed in further meetings and correspondence, bar the timing of a transition to a fully elected House of Assembly.
Revenge porn is a criminal offence, police warn – Prison or $10K
fine on the books for offenders
The Royal TCI Police Force is warning people who insist on sharing intimate images or videos of others on public forums without the consent of the subject that prison awaits them.
This week, police reported that they have recently received numerous complaints about people sharing intimate images on public forums and between others without the consent of the person who appears in the imagery.
They warned: “The sharing of these materials in such
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circumstances is a criminal offence.”
Under Section 47 of the Sexual Offences Ordinance (2021): “It is an offence for a person to disclose a private sexual photograph or film if the disclosure is made without the consent of an individual who appears in the photograph or film; and with the intention of causing that individual distress.”
Local lawyer files suit against Judge Gruchot
Local Lawyer Beryn Duncanson, a senior member of the Society of Black Lawyers, has filed a lawsuit personally against Justice Anthony Gruchot alleging that not only has that judge conspired to block his court filings, but that his clients are seriously concerned that the said judge was until recently head of the Freemasons in the TCI.
Duncanson’s complaints have reached a level of such seriousness that last year (June 7, 2023) former President Adderley of the Court of Appeal had directed that all of Duncanson’s and his clients’ cases be transferred to another judge.
Now, after a whole year stuck in limbo in the system, and finally making its way to court before Chief Justice Mrs Mabel Agyemang, is the original complaint by Constitutional Motion that Duncanson had filed last year (May 22, 2023), wherein ten (10) of his existing clients, all having outstanding live cases, complained of Judge Gruchot having obvious conflicts in sitting on their cases.
Some of those clients say that Judge Gruchot was actually the lawyer on the other side from them in their own underlying matters, but that he refused to automatically step down from their cases once he became a judge. They complain that this sort of obvious prejudice to their cases caused them to file the lawsuit personally against him. They insist on a court order that Judge Gruchot should have to personally pay them compensation and not the TCI government.
Duncanson’s clients allege that Judge Gruchot repeatedly conspired with Registrar Mr Narendra Lalbeharry to block various of their lawyer’s court filings, principally starting last year April 2023 block the filing of his Notice of Appeal and Notice of Intention to Appeal. Each time their lawyer and/or his staff presented court documents for filing and or service, the Registrar Lalbeharry personally, and his staff would refuse to accept those documents.
Judge in Brian Hagerich’s Judgement suggest review of the firearms law
In a landmark decision last week, Justice Tanya LobbanJackson found that American tourist Brian Hagerich ammunition case entailed exceptional circumstances, thus fining him $6,700 and a 12 month suspended sentence. In her written judgement in the case, the Judge also drew attention to the law in question – the Firearms Ordinance 2022 – particularly how it should be applied and exactly who or what it aims to target, drawing attention to the mentioned ‘gun culture’ in the TCI and its adverse effects on local society.
TCI Human Rights Commission refutes US delegates’ claims on detention facilities
The Turks and Caicos Islands Human Rights Commission has refuted claims made by US delegates regarding the conditions of detention facilities in the Islands.
The dispute arose from the detention of five US nationals on ammunition charges in the Turks and Caicos Islands, a
Local Lawyer
Beryn
Duncanson
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matter that US Congressman Guy Reschenthaler brought to public attention following a meeting with TCI officials.
During the interview with ABC News, Reschenthaler claimed that the UN flagged TCI’s prison for human rights abuses.
He further claimed that every three weeks an American is being detained wrongfully in the Turks and Caicos and that the Turks and Caicos government is targeting American citizens.
However, in a recent statement Director (Ag) Kabatha Smith of TCI’s Human Rights Commission affirmed that it has not received any reports from the United Nations referencing sanctions or substandard conditions in the facilities.
JUNE
Hezronh to showcase in highly anticipated Los Angeles exhibition
TCI artist HezronH has been selected to participate in a highly anticipated ‘Indelible Imprints’ exhibition in Los Angeles this June.
The exhibition - hosted by SaveArtSpace, in collaboration with DCDG & Co., - will see HezronH participating in the gallery component, curated by renowned visual artist and curator Delaney George, with installations launching on June 14.
‘Indelible Imprints’ is a powerful celebration of the indelible marks made by Black individuals throughout American history, from the era of enslavement to contemporary times. The exhibition aims to honour the resilience, spirit, and unapologetic expression of Black culture and its essential role.
HezronH will join an impressive line-up of artists, including Devin Wesley, Jordan McRae, and Roger Erickson, whose works will be featured in public art installations on billboards throughout Los Angeles, beginning June 14.
Experience
Turks
and Caicos
rolls out ‘Exquisite Turks And Caicos’
Experience Turks and Caicos is set to roll out a new initiative designed to promote immersive tourism in the islands.
Titled ‘Exquisite Turks and Caicos’, this innovative tourism programme, conceptualised by the Strategic Development Unit, collaborates closely with industry partners to curate and deliver on niche product offerings and services to enhance our visitors’ overall experience.
Focused on adding significant value in education, culture, history, eco-friendliness, entertainment, engagement, and affordability, the programme has identified priority areas through which new or existing micro and small businesses can partner, a statement from Experience Turks and Caicos said this week.
The programme targets businesses that are land-based, water-based (excluding dive and charters), and is involved in the promotion of the cultural arts, nature and wildlife, gastronomy, agriculture and heritage. The goal of Exquisite Turks and Caicos is to ensure that the traveller will walk away not only having an exquisite experience, but a learned one that will be treasured always.
Man accused of gunning down Wymara Employee remanded until October
Twenty-nine-year-old Kerly Agenor of Dock Yard, Providenciales has been remanded to His Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk pending a sufficiency hearing in October.
Agenor appeared before the Chief Magistrate, Jolyn Hatmin on Monday, June 10, having arrived at the Old Airport Road courthouse in Providenciales, shackled and escorted by armed police.
He was represented by defence attorney Willin Belliard in his plea and directions hearing on Monday when the five indictable offenses were read to him.
Facts of the case are that on March 5, at the Wymara Resort Turks & Caicos, Agenor, acting together with others, intentionally shot and killed 22-year-old Butler Brave Prophete.
The deceased victim, a former resident of Wheeland in Providenciales, was exiting his workplace when he was fatally shot.
JULY
US-based TCIslanders active in illegal gun trade- police reveals
Individuals from the Turks and Caicos Islands residing in the US are actively involved in the illicit gun pipeline.
Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, Mr Edvin Martin recently revealed that these individuals are “part of the apparatus of sending firearms” to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
A river of illegal guns flowing from the United States to the Turks and Caicos Islands and other parts of the Caribbean has spurred the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force to forge and strengthen robust alliances with international partners to stem the influx of weapons and dismantle the criminal networks fuelling the violence.
Like many other Caribbean nations, the TCI is suffering from sharp increases in gang and gun violence and is pushing back against a tide of illegal firearms, primarily sourced from the US.
Speaking to members of the local media recently, Commissioner Martin painted a grim picture of the situation.
He said: “The vast majority of illegal firearms entering the Caribbean space seems to be disproportionately coming from the US,” Martin declared.
Former airport boss and two others slapped with 13 corruption charges
Former Chief Executive Officer of the TCI Airport Authority, John Smith along with his then CFO, Kenneth Abrams and businessman Alonzo Malcolm, is at the centre of a massive corruption scheme spanning years and four of TCI’s airports.
Smith, a native of Grand Turk who ended a 12-plus year career at the Airport Authority in June 2020, along with Abrams and Malcolm appeared before Chief Magistrate Jolyon Hatmin on Tuesday, July 2 and was officially charged with thirteen offences.
The trio are accused of being involved in a conspiracy to award contracts in connection with the airports in Providenciales, Grand Turk, as well as North and South Caicos.
death of a beloved brother, son and father, 31-year-old Louis Beliare.
Details of the horrific crime as revealed by police are that on Tuesday, July 2, at about 10:43 pm, a woman had just returned home when five men, dressed in all black and armed accosted her and attempted to rob her of her money and possessions.
Reports are that the brother fought with the bandits before he was shot multiple times. He eventually succumbed to the gunshot wounds and when police arrived at the crime scene, Beliare was already dead.
Local businesses will be protected
– As Premier vows to investigate Red Hospitality amid monopoly concerns
In a heated turn of events, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick has pledged a thorough investigation into the business practices of Red Hospitality, an international excursion booking agency, accused of employing predatory tactics to monopolise the local water sports industry.
This move comes in response to mounting public outrage and accusations that the company is employing hostile takeover tactics and a vertical integration model to monopolise the water sports industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Local water sports operators, who met with the Premier and other government officials on July 8th, 2024, allege that Red Hospitality is using its financial clout to push out existing players at all levels of the industry.
Judge says TCI Status Commission usurped Governor’s power
– orders Commission to reconsider rejected
applications
Justice Anthony Gruchot has quashed the TCI Status Commission’s decision to deny several residents Turks and Caicos Islander status, urging them to reconsider the applications as they had overstepped their mandate.
The judge’s verdict follows an application for a judicial review of the commission’s decision to deny several applications in March, with the applicants citing bias against non-natives, unprofessionalism and accusing some members of the Commission’s members of discriminatory conduct. Justice Gruchot’s written judgement was delivered on July 5, in which he concluded that he did not find the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance is of itself unconstitutional or ultra vires the Constitution.
FortisTCI defends proposed hike amidst economic growth and rising costs
FortisTCI, the main electricity provider in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is defending its proposed 6% rate increase, citing the need to meet the demands of a booming economy and escalating costs.
In a high-stakes battle over electricity rates, FortisTCI, the main power provider in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is locked in a standoff with the government over a proposed 6% rate increase, which would amount to an additional $2 to $15 per month for most residential customers if approved.
Attempted robbery leaves protective brother dead and family grief-stricken
National Physical Development Plan reopens amidst influx of
Year in review 2024 Year in review 2024
public requests
In a significant shift towards sustainable and inclusive urban planning, the Turks and Caicos Islands government (TCIG) has announced a major overhaul of the National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) following an unprecedented influx of public requests for modifications.
The Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development is opening up the NPDP, which signals a shift in the country’s approach to urban planning, with a renewed emphasis on public consultation and addressing longstanding issues like informal settlements.
Last American fined and released for ammo possession
Forty-six-year-old Sharitta Grier, an American tourist who was in May arrested for unauthorized possession of two bullets prior to boarding an outboard flight, has been fined and given a suspended sentence.
Grier, who was arrested on May 13 with the bullets in her bag, is the last American tourist hauled before the court to answer to charges of illegal possession of ammunition and/ or gun.
She appeared before Justice Tanya Lobban-Jackson on Thursday, July 11, and was given a 23-week sentence –suspended for one year - and a fine of $1,500.
Three suspects arrested in Grand Turk with gun, ammo and drugs
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is currently conducting an expansive and country-wide campaign called ‘Operation MIGHT’
These anti-crime operations across the Turks and Caicos Islands have so far resulted in the arrest of three persons, along with the seizure of four firearms, an assortment of ammunition and a quantity of drugs.
Additionally, Mervin Joseph – who has evaded police for more than a year - was snatched up while asleep in a Dock Yard house.
Been slams Red Hospitality’s exclusive deal with Grace Bay Resorts
With scathing criticism, the People’s Democratic Movement Deputy Leader Robert Been has condemned the exclusive ag reement between Red Hospitality and Grace Bay Resorts warning of potential monopolistic practices and economic harm to local businesses.
Been’s criticism echoes growing concerns within the Turks and Caicos community about the deal’s impact on fair competition and the livelihood of local operators in the water sports industry.
The controversy stems from a letter dated June 17, 2024 in which Alvin Hegner, Country Director of RED Hospitality and Leisure, informed local operators of the forthcoming changes.
American Airline to pioneer nonstop service from US to South Caicos
In a ground-breaking move set to redefine travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands, American Airlines (AA) has announced the launch of the first and only nonstop service from the United States to South Caicos.
This new route, commencing on February 15, 2025, will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, connecting Miami International Airport (MIA) to South Caicos Airport (XSC).
The introduction of this service marks a significant expansion of American Airlines’ presence in the Caribbean and Atlantic region, where the airline already serves over 40 destinations.
This development is poised to enhance connectivity and convenience for travellers seeking the pristine beaches and vibrant culture of South Caicos.
“With the launch of American’s second destination in Turks and Caicos, we’re thrilled to continue strengthening our international footprint,” said José A. Freig, American’s Vice President for International Operations in a statement to the Weekly News on Monday, July 15, 2024.
Fortis TCI: Navigating the energy trilemma amidst soaring energy demand
In the sun-drenched Turks and Caicos Islands, a quiet storm is brewing—the escalating demand for electricity.
As this British Overseas Territory experiences rapid economic growth, fuelled by tourism, real estate, and government investments, the need for reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy has never been more critical.
There are three challenges: energy security, energy sustainability and energy affordability, which have to be addressed when facing investments in energy and demand which implies a trade-off when choosing one over the other.
Fortis TCI, the sole provider of electricity in the islands, is at the heart of this challenge, grappling with the complex task of balancing these competing priorities, often referred to as the “energy trilemma”.
AUGUST
sounded the alarm over the potentially devastating impact of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) stringent tax regime on the local resort industry.
Saunders contends that the high penalties and interest rates levied on unpaid taxes could inadvertently push hotels into bankruptcy, leading to widespread job losses and economic instability.
Grand Turk teenager killed in road accident
A Grand Turk family is in mourning following a tragic accident that claimed the life of teenager Niya Robinson last Sunday evening.
Police reported that at about 10:45pm on July 28, the police control room received a report of an accident involving a motor vehicle along Breezy Brae in Grand Turk.
When officers and other emergency personnel responded to the scene, they observed a silver Suzuki Swift car that had flipped upside down along the roadway. Police said a female was trapped inside and another was seen lying motionless on the road.
TCIG and Carnival tightens cruise port security amidst safety concerns
In a move that has stirred both support and controversy, the Turks & Caicos Islands Government, in partnership with the Grand Turk Cruise Center (GTCC) and Carnival Corporation, has announced stringent new guidelines for public access to the GTCC facilities.
Effective Thursday, August 15, these measures aim to enhance security at the popular cruise destination while ensuring that residents and visitors alike can still enjoy its amenities.
The revised policy comes in response to growing concerns about safety and security at the port.
Peoples Democratic Movement Deputy Leader Robert Been
Former Deputy Premier, Erwin Jay Saunders
Grand Turk Cruise Center
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick
Year in review 2024 Year in review 2024
cooperation from top officials.
In a heartfelt address to the community on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick acknowledged the widespread grief and the need for collective action against crime.
He said: “The hopes of a nation are here with you,” Premier Misick stated, emphasizing the shared pain felt throughout the islands.
The spokesperson called for a collective effort to combat crime, urging citizens to break their silence and assist law enforcement: “If you see something, say something.”
Back-to-back murders rock Grand Turk
The brutal murders of two Grand Turk residents – Necal Pierre and Stavado Talbot – have rocked the close knit island of Grand Turk, filling residents with fear and sounding calls to the authorities to do more to protect the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Thirty-seven-year-old Necal Pierre – mother of one - was found dead at about 3:15pm on Sunday (August 4) after police in the nation’s capital were summoned to a house in the Palm Grove district.
Although police have not stated how Piere died, reliable reports are that she was shot.
Shortly after this, at about 4:49pm police were once again summoned to another gruesome scene, having received
Premier declares war on ‘shanties’
The Turks and Caicos Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick has declared war on the escalating “crisis” of informal settlements.
With a stern warning that these unregulated communities pose a grave threat to both national security and human dignity, Misick has vowed to take decisive action.
This comes in the wake of a controversial government operation that saw the demolition of homes in an informal settlement in Five Cays, sparking outrage among human rights advocates and the opposition leader who accused the government of callous disregard for its most vulnerable citizens.
Privy Council will hear TCIG on constitutional changes this November
Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood recently met with the Governor to discuss, among other things, the proposed constitutional changes to the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution and the upcoming Privy Council meeting.
Reporting on the meeting, Astwood said they discussed the recent changes in the UK government, possible changes in approach to addressing the needs and concerns of the overseas territories - particularly Turks and Caicos Islands –as well as potential dates for a possible visit to the TCI by the new Minister responsible for Overseas Territories.
CONTINUED
at the 2025 polls, marking the end of a political career that has spanned two terms as Premier and over three decades as a politician.
In an interview on the show “THIS IS WHAT’S UP 2.0” with host Hon Erwin ‘Jay’ Saunders, Misick confirmed his decision not to run again after this election cycle, stating “Absolutely not...if he [God] were to spare my life and give me the good fortune of serving out either the entire term or parts of it, I have no intention, absolutely none.”
TCIslanders not targeted in land reclamations, government officials assert
In the wake of recent land reclamations and the removal of unauthorised structures in the Turks and Caicos Islands, government officials are staunchly defending their actions, emphasising that Turks and Caicos Islanders have not been rendered homeless by these operations.
During a recent interview, former Supreme Court Justice Carlos Simons KC, Head of the Informal Settlement Unit (ISU), addressed concerns about the targeting of local residents, stating unequivocally that the law does not permit such discrimination.
SEPTEMBER
Watersports Controversy: Premier says regulations being reviewed to close loopholes
Premier, Hon Charles Washington Misick has responded to questions surrounding the controversy in the watersports community, regarding alleged predatory practices by a USowned company operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Late last month, a circular from RED Hospitality and Leisure was shared on social media with regards to changes to the booking procedures for water sports, tours and activities for guests offered at Grace Bay Resorts.
Sapodilla Bay resident wins against Gov – Court rules against Govt
Another setback has struck the government as it failed to acquire land at the controversial Sapodilla Bay beach to establish a vendors’ market and alleviate several issues that have sparked protests by homeowners and vendors over the years. On Thursday, August 22, Judge Anthony Gruchot
Residents are calling for justice for young mother Necal Pierre, found in a Grand Turk home shot to death
Stavado Talbot was shot in broad daylight by a masked gunman.
several reports from residents of gunshots being heard near the Parade Ground in Back Salina.
An aerial view of an informal community in the Turks and Caicos Islands
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick
Premier will not seek re-election after current election cycle
Turks and Caicos Premier Charles Washington Misick announced on Tuesday, August 21, 2024, that he will not seek a fourth term in office if his party emerges victorious
An illegal structure in Five Cays before it was demolished
Year in review 2024 Year in review 2024
handed down a written judgement in an appeal on the Land Acquisition Ordinance brought by 99 Sapodilla Ltd against the Governor.
The late Eric Arthur
Middle Caicos Airport renamed in honour of aviation pioneer Eric Arthur
The Turks and Caicos Islands paid tribute to a local legend on September 10, 2024, by renaming Middle Caicos Airport in honour of Eric Arthur, a trailblazing entrepreneur and aviation pioneer.
The renaming ceremony drew a diverse crowd, reflecting the broad impact of Arthur’s life.
Local dignitaries, including Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick and Minister of Immigration and Services, Hon Arlington Musgrove, spoke of Arthur’s vision and dedication to progress.
Retired legislators get 20% increase
The government this week took a motion to the House of Assembly for the approval of a draft Order increasing retiring allowances for past legislators by 20 percent.
The motion titled ‘Draft Retiring Allowance Legislative Service Increase Order’ was moved by Hon Premier and Minister for Finance, Investment and Trade Charles Washington Misick in the House on Thursday, September 12.
Border Force rallies community support in fight against illegal immigration
In a concerted effort to safeguard its borders and communities, the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force has launched a powerful campaign against organised immigration crime.
With a comprehensive strategy that combines intensified intelligence gathering, robust enforcement operations, and a far-reaching public awareness campaign, the Border Force is sending a clear message that illegal immigration will not be tolerated.
TCI, UK and the Bahamas further maritime boundary delimitation talks
The Turks and Caicos Islands, supported by the United Kingdom, and the Bahamas are still working to resolve boundary matters since initial discussions in 1992.
Last week, the government hosted a technical meeting on maritime boundary delimitation, which is the fourth round of discussions to resolve issues.
The two-day discussions – held September 24 and 25focused on delimiting the maritime boundary between the Turks and Caicos Islands and The Bahamas in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
OCTOBER
and
Controversial Asylum Bill stuck in Parliament
The government is seeking to provide comprehensive legislation establishing various guidelines for persons seeking asylum in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the internal procedures dictating such requests.
On September 26, the Asylum Bill 2024 was read for the second time in the House of Assembly, making way for a
CONTINUED
debate on its contents and changes in the committee of the House.
TCI ushers in new era of border security with Border Force Bill
In a move set to reshape the Turks and Caicos Islands’ approach to safeguarding its borders, the House of Assembly has passed the Border Force Bill, formally establishing the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force.
This landmark legislation consolidates the functions of the Customs and Immigration Departments into a single, unified agency, poised to strengthen the nation’s defences against illegal migration, smuggling, and other borderrelated threats.
Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles
TCI passes landmark legislation to combat organised crime
In a decisive move to dismantle organised crime and enhance public safety, the House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) has passed the ground-breaking Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2024.
This landmark legislation, presented by Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, introduces a powerful new tool for law enforcement: the ability to offer immunity or reduced sentences to individuals who cooperate with authorities and provide crucial information on criminal activities.
Members of TCI’s Border Force address residents in North Caicos (Photos TCI Border Force)
The Turks and Caicos Islands recently hosted Maritime Boundary Delimitation Talks with the Commonwealth of the Bahamas (TCIG photo)
PDM candidates
members protests rushed Asylum Bill in front of the Premier’s Office (Photo: NewslinetcI
Executive Members of TCI Border Force (Photo: TCIG)
Year in review 2024 Year in review 2024
Sweeping constitutional amendments
– House of Assembly renamed Parliament, term extended
In a landmark decision that will transform the political landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the House of Assembly on Thursday voted to approve a series of draft constitutional amendments, marking a significant step towards greater autonomy and modernised governance.
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, who tabled the motion, hailed the collaborative spirit that led to this historic moment.
Bill to define Chief Justice’s role passed
In a significant move to solidify the legal framework of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the House of Assembly approved the Chief Justice Responsibilities Amendment Bill 2024 on Friday, October 11th, 2024.
This landmark legislation aims to formally establish the Chief Justice’s position as the head of the judiciary and the third head of state, a role previously undefined in the constitution.
Photogenic when the curtains came down on the 20th annual Miss Global International pageant on Sunday evening at the Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman ballroom, in the Cayman Islands.
The pageant was won by Guyanese Arian Dahlia Richmond but included finalists from around the world including Argentina, Poland, Latvia, Cuba, Chile, Jamaica, Hungary, India, Peru, Luxembourg, South Africa, San Andres, Trinidad and Tobago, the US and the UK.
CONTINUED
Grant returns home as first runner-up, wins Miss Photogenic title
Appellate court reserves decision in Hall and Greene Appeal – quashes abuse of process submissions
Floyd Hall and Clayton Greene’s claim that their eight-yearlong corruption trials are tantamount to an abuse of process – one which the Chief Justice manifestly disregarded - has been quashed by the Court of Appeal on the grounds that it has no merit.
The Court of Appeal sat from October 8 to 17, hearing lengthy submissions by the attorneys for the two appellants. Abuse of process was one of five grounds put forward in the appeal, and the only ground for which a decision has been given at this time.
NOVEMBER
Major drug bust at transit shed
In a blow to the illegal drug trade, the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force Canine Unit has intercepted a significant shipment of suspected cannabis.
The illicit cargo, weighing in at a staggering 27.08 pounds, was discovered cleverly concealed within an unassuming washing machine at one of the islands’ transit sheds. This alarming find has sent shockwaves through the typically tranquil archipelago, raising concerns about the growing presence of organized crime in the region.
Turks and Caicos Islands
Launches Border Force to Bolster National Security and Combat Illegal Activity
In a historic move to enhance national security and fortify its borders against illegal activity, the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) officially launched its Border Force on Thursday, October 31st.
This momentous occasion celebrated with much pomp and ceremony at the Shore Club Providenciales, marks the culmination of a three-year endeavor spearheaded by the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services, which has seen a significant expansion of enforcement and intelligence teams, substantial investments in cutting-edge technology, and the implementation of robust legislative frameworks.
Leader of the Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood; Attorney General Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles and Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick at a recent consultation meeting with residents (Photo: TCI Communications Directorate)
In honour of National Heritage Day, Ms Grant wore this costume titled ‘Queen of the Coral Gardens’ (Facebook photo)
The Turks and Caicos Islands 23-year-old beauty Selena Grant finished as the first runner-up and was named Miss
Floyd Hall
Clayton Greene
Bags containing the suspected narcotics were found in a washing machine - PHOTOS: TCI Border Force
Members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
Polar vortex to bring freezing weather to US
Freezing weather is expected to hit the eastern US in the coming days as the polar vortex moves.
Temperatures are expected to remain below average for the south-east and East Coast through the first half of January. The Gulf of Mexico and Florida could also experience temperatures below freezing.
Meteorologists are predicting heavy snow for the Great Lakes region and into the Appalachians, as well as bitterly cold wind chills.
The polar vortex is an area of cold air that circulates around the Arctic. That area can shift and expand, bringing lower temperatures further south than usual.
Modelling by the independent forecaster Atmospheric and
Environmental Research shows the polar vortex expanding over the US in the first two weeks of the new year.
The forecaster says this will bring below-normal temperatures into the eastern US during the second week of January.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that “the coldest air of the season to date and dangerous wind chills are likely across many areas of the south-east”.
NWS predicts that lows could reach -8C (18F) in parts of Texas and -4C in Georgia on Tuesday night.
Temperatures will be far colder in the north, with northern Minnesota expected to dip to -25C at the same time.
Beyond then, exact temperatures
are hard to forecast - but the NWS expects the coldest weather to occur towards the end of the second week of January.
Heavy snow is anticipated to extend from the Great Lakes region
into central and eastern parts of the US around then, but snow could reach as far south as Texas.
The NWS says that while significant accumulations of snow are not expected for the south-
east, “these regions are often ill-equipped to handle snowy conditions, resulting in potentially higher impacts”.
File photo of a winter storm hitting Chicago, Illinois last January
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gets debut date for her new lifestyle series
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, is returning to the small screen.
Netflix has announced the debut date for “With Love, Meghan,” a lifestyle series produced by Meghan.
“Blending practical how-to’s and candid conversation with friends, new and old, Meghan shares personal tips and tricks, embracing playfulness over perfection and highlights how easy it can be to create beauty, even in the unexpected,” a Netflix
description of the series reads. “She and her guests roll up their sleeves in the kitchen, the garden, and beyond, and invite you to do the same.”
Some of the guests who will be featured on the series include
of Sussex
Mindy Kaling, Roy Choi and Alice Waters.
The former “Suits” star also has a lifestyle brand she’s announced,
Meghan, Duchess
American Riviera Orchard. Her new series is produced, in part, by Archewell Productions, her company with Prince Harry.
Year in review 2024 Year in review 2024
The organisers and other officials during a briefing of the event this week (Photo: Shanice Lightbourne)
Award-winning chefs for the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival
The Caribbean Food and Wine Festival will celebrate its 14th anniversary with the culinary talent of chefs, winemakers, local community contributions, and various partners at several locations from November 7 to 10.
This year’s activities bring together some of the awardwinning chefs from around the world, including Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee from Scratch Restaurant, Chef Adrianne Calvo, Ken Wright, The Macallan, Veuve Clicquot, and Miguel Cruz to infuse an exquisite taste of food and wine to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
TCI maintains position as top performing premium class destination
The Turks and Caicos Islands has maintained its position as the top performing Premium Class destination in the Caribbean for 2024, with a +35 per cent growth in its market share and together with Aruba and Puerto Rico showed the most growth in this niche.
These three islands collectively accounted for almost 15 per cent of all premium class arrivals according to a Travels Trends and Outlook report from Forward Keys.
Commissioner
Police Commissioner resigns amidst crime wave in TCI – Personal reasons cited; replacement to be found
Seven months into his tenure, the Commissioner of Police for the Turks and Caicos Islands has resigned for personal reasons amid growing public concerns regarding safety and
effective leadership.
On Thursday, November 22, the Governor’s Office announced that she had accepted Edvin Martin’s resignation as Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
TCI Hospital, Cheshire Hall Medical Centre
Hospital contract in jeopardy as Govt demands better service
In a move that underscores its commitment to ensuring toptier healthcare for its citizens, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) has announced a firm stance against InterHealth Canada (IHC), the operator of the nation’s two major hospitals.
Citing concerns over value for money and service quality, the government is set to enforce its contractual rights, potentially leading to financial penalties, mandated service improvements, or even contract termination.
Election officials demonstrate how voters will use the electronic systems to cast their ballots
Electronic voting now possible with passage of Elections Amendment
Bill
In a landmark move towards modernising its electoral process, the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly has passed the Elections Amendment Bill 2024.
CONTINUED
This significant legislation paves the way for the introduction of electronic voting and advanced polling, marking a transformative shift in the way elections will be conducted in the territory.
DECEMBER
Minister of Immigration in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon Arlington Musgrove
– Turks and Caicos Islands stands defiant against Trump’s deportation proposal
In a bold rebuke of the incoming Trump administration’s immigration plans, the Turks and Caicos Islands has issued a resolute declaration: it will not accept deported migrants from the United States or any other nations who are not citizens of the territory.
This firm stance, articulated by the Minister of Immigration, Hon Arlington Musgrove, underscores the islands’ commitment to sovereignty, border control, and the well-being of its residents.
Cost-of-Living Relief Grant disbursement begins
In a significant move to alleviate the financial burden on its citizens, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government has commenced the disbursement of its Cost-of-Living Relief Grant.
This initiative, first announced by Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick on November 5, 2024, promises a onetime payment of $1000 to every Turks and Caicos Islander and British Overseas Territory Citizen (BOTC).
Acting
of Police, Fitz Bailey
Minister of Immigration in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon Arlington Musgrove
President of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump
Edwin Martin resigns and Commissioner of Royal TCI Police Force
Year in review 2024 Year in review 2024
All-Island Candidate, Mr Zhavargo Jolly, Hon Jameka Williams, All-Island Candidate Ms Sharon Simons and Hon Willin Belliard
PNP bolsters election roster with “fab four” amidst constitutional shift
The Progressive National Party (PNP) has unveiled four new All-Island candidates for the impending general election in a strategic move signaling its intent to seize the reins of power.
The announcement, made during a special edition of the party’s weekly show “This is What’s Up,” introduced a quartet of contenders — Hone Jameka Williams, Hon Willin Belliard, Sharon Simons, and Zhavargo Jolly — each poised to make a significant impact on the political landscape.
TCI Parliament clashes as supplementary budget passes amidst healthcare crisis
A contentious debate unfolded in the House of Assembly as the government’s third supplementary budget for the 2024/2025 fiscal year was passed, amidst a backdrop of a healthcare crisis and accusations of government mismanagement.
The supplementary bill, presented by Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick, proposed reallocations of $13.3 million from the capital program to address urgent needs, including $10.3 million for the treatment abroad and overseas mental health programs, $550,000 for renewable energy consultancy, $300,000 for social welfare programs, and $2.1 million for infrastructure maintenance.
LOO describes healthcare dilemma as “a catastrophic failure”
s during a House of Assembly sitting on 16 December 2024, Opposition Leader Hon Edwin Astwood launched a scathing attack on the Washington Misick-led government, denouncing their handling of the National Health Insurance Programme (NHIP) and a myriad of other critical issues.
CONTINUED
HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam issued a Proclamation to dissolve the House of Assembly on Wednesday 18th December 2024
House of Assembly dissolved as elections looms
On December 16, 2024, Governor Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam dissolved the House of Assembly, following consultation with Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick OBE JP. This decision, made under the authority of the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution, paves the way for a snap general election.
Premier Misick calls snap election
– citing PNP’s economic success and warning against PDM’s ‘Bad Management’
Turks and Caicos Islanders will cast their ballots electronically at the polls on 7 February 2025, to decide which political party will be at the helm of the territory’s affairs for the next five years.
In a dramatic address to the nation on Tuesday, 17 December 2024, shortly after 11 pm, Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick announced the dissolution of the House of Assembly and called for a snap election, setting the stage for a high-stakes political battle in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
CONTRIBUTORS NEEDED
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Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick presented the Bill to Parliament (Photos: screenshots of the livestreamed session)
Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition Hon Edwin Astwood during his contribution to the debate
Premier Hon Charles Washington Misick during a video address to the nation.
LABOURER
LABOURER
CLEANER
LABOURER
LABOURER
8 SECURITY OFFICERS
STEELMAN
• Duties:Tie
for Beams, columns and floors (Mash
• Prepare columns for pouring of Cement
• Prepare Mash Wire for Pouring of floors
• Mix cement
• Lay Blocks
• and other task assigned by Foremen Salary: $15 Hourly
MIXOLOGIST TRAINER
• Responsible for training other (local) bartenders and staff members on how to mix drinks properly.
• Enabling them to concoct a diverse and appealing range of cocktails and other drinks tailored to customer preferences.
• Also adept at preparing a wide
•
• And also help the trainee to receive a
Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, Is seeking to employ
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Performing a variety of
COOK BARTENDER
VARIOUS
EMILY FORBES (243-1257)
Landing Road, Kew North Caicos
FARMER (4)
Salary $8.00 per hour
Weeding, planting crop etc
SHORLLEE ADAMS (441-8513)
Kewtown, Providenciales
DOMESTIC WORKER
$8.00 HOURLY, General house chores etc
CAMELITA JOACHIM (346-2245)
Five Cays , Providenciales
HELPER $8.00 HOURLY, General cleaning etc
SHEPHERD MOTORS DEALER AND RENTAL (347-7440)
Five Cays, Providenciales
MECHANIC $8.00 HOURLY, replacing faulty parts etc
FINAL PREPARATION STRIKE 2 (341-8585)
151 South Dock Road, Providenciales MECHANIC Salary $8 hourly
( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)
Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Sarah Amachee by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.
CHAMPIONS FOR CHRIST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE
An affiliate of AGAPE LIFE CENTER
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
COMPUTER TECHNICIAN
DUTIES INCLUDE:
Provide computer and network support including but not limited to: Installing software, and software patches, diagnosing and repairing common computer problems, monitoring internal networks, and repairing server errors, resolving hard disk failures, configuring software and drivers, and performing regular system upgrades and backups. Ability to manage workstations and write memos when needed for computer maintenance and system updates. Ability to introduce new technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or similar from a reputable institution; Advanced problem-solving skills; Active listening skills; Prior knowledge of data storage and data recovery; Service-oriented persona; Good time and task management skills; Excellent written and verbal communication; Extensive knowledge of computer software, hardware, and firmware.
Minimum: 2 years’ experience
Must be an active born-again Christian who believes in the work of the Holy Spirit.
Please submit resume and three references (one must be from current Pastor) with telephone numbers and addresses.
Salary range: $10/hr to $13/hr based on qualifications and experience.
No phone calls accepted.
PUBLIC NOTICE
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION
( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)
Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Christopher George Foster by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.
IS INTERVIEWING FOR:
2 HOUSEMAN, HOUSEKEEPER
The suitable candidate must have 5 years of experience, have strong English verbal and written communication skills. Salary starting at $8.50 per hour.
PUBLIC NOTICE
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION
( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)
Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Adrienne Noel by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.
LABOURER
LABOURER
LABOURER
RECEIVING CLERK
• We are looking for an experienced administrator to join our law firm as a receptionist and administrative assistant.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, good time management, and keen attention to detail.
• Must be friendly, efficient, punctual, and trustworthy.
• A minimum of 2 years’ office experience is required for the position, and experience in the legal field is preferred.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office.
SEND YOUR CV TO RECEPTION@SAVORY-CO.COM
TECHNICAL YACHT AND SALES MANAGER
LOCATION: SOUTH BANK MARINA
POSITION TYPE: FULL-TIME
Are you passionate about the yachting industry and ready to take on a dynamic role at the heart of technical yacht management and sales? South Bank Marina is seeking a Technical Yacht and Sales Manager to lead and coordinate vessel sales, warranty repairs, and technical yacht activities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Manage all aspects of vessel sales, from logistics and registrations to customer education.
• Oversee warranty registrations, repairs, and claims for vessels sold.
• Coordinate logistics, customs clearances, and local shipping for vessels and parts.
• Provide technical expertise and advice to customers on yachting and vessel care.
• Develop business strategies to attract new clients and expand market presence.
• Manage marketing initiatives for boat sales in collaboration with the CEO and Operations Manager.
• Supervise staH under your command, including training and recruitment.
• Monitor and manage inventory, oHice requisites, and aged debtors.
• Attend boat shows and represent South Bank Marina professionally.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
• Proven experience in yacht sales, technical yacht management, or a related field.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities.
• Knowledge of logistics, warranty claims, and vessel registration processes.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Experience with marketing and business strategy development is an asset. What We OBer:
• Competitive salary and benefits package up to 50k annually.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• A supportive team environment in a leading marina.
HOW TO APPLY:
If you have the skills, experience, and passion to excel in this role, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume and cover letter to contact@southbank.tc with the subject line “Technical Yacht and Sales Manager Application”.
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.
level.
SUPPORT STAFF
To assist with kitchen prep, charcuterie board setup, and daily operations at our luxury charcuterie and champagne experience in Turks and Caicos.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Help prepare and present charcuterie boards.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Assist with events and daily operations. WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
• Passion for food and hospitality.
• Organized, reliable, and teamoriented.
• Experience in food service or events is a plus. PERKS: Competitive pay and a creative work environment.
GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from a recognized institution
• Minimum of 5 years work experience in a fast-paced Urgent Care practice setting, including 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Current registration from country of origin and with the HPA in TCI
• Current ACLS certification.
• Bilingual proficiency is a strong asset.
REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES
• Supervise and support nursing staff in delivering high-quality patient care.
• Coordinate and manage patient care plans in collaboration with healthcare teams.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory guidelines and organizational policies.
• Conduct performance evaluations, training, provide mentorship, and assist with staff development.
• Monitor staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all shifts.
• Demonstrate strong administration skills.
• Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and staff meetings.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and EHR software.
• Practical skills to include but not limited to IV therapy, venipuncture, injections, vitals, dressings, ECG, sterilization protocol and how to operate the machine.
• Collaborate with physicians and healthcare teams to develop and modify patient care plans.
• Maintain accurate patient records, including treatments, progress, and responses.
• Respond to emergencies and perform life-saving procedures when necessary.
• Able to work with little or no supervision to ensure proper flow of patients
Salary based on experience and qualifications. Belongers only need to apply.
SENIOR LIGATION ATTORNEY
Karam & Missick, Attorneys-at-Law Suite A 203/204, Regent Village East Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands is seeking a Senior Ligation Attorney
JOB SUMMARY:
The selected candidate will be responsible for handling court cases, representing clients in civil and criminal court proceedings and preparing legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, and briefs, representing clients in all stages of litigation, including trial and appeals and all other delegated task.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• A qualified attorney (as a qualified solicitor or barrister or both) from a Commonwealth jurisdiction
• A member of the Turks & Caicos Bar Association or eligible for immediate admission, as well as being able to demonstrate significant experience in litigation: criminal and commercial/civil.
• 10 years post-qualification experience in private practice with experience of submissions before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.
Salary: $100k – 150k per annum, depending on experience.
TIRE
REPAIRMAN
CLEANER
forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting.
Keeps equipment available for use by inspecting and testing vehicles; completing preventive maintenance such as, engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire changes, wheel balancing, and replacing filters.
$8.50 Hourly
DRYWALL FINISHER
GENERAL WORKER
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Prepare drywall panels for painting by applying joint compound and taping seams.
• Sand surfaces to ensure smooth finishes.
• Repair cracks, holes, or
on walls and ceilings.
• Apply corner beads, fasteners, and other materials as needed.
REQUIREMENTS:
• Experience as a Drywall Finisher or in a similar role.
• Skilled in using tools such as taping knives, sanding blocks, and trowels.
• Knowledge of construction safety standards and procedures.
• Attention to detail and ability to deliver clean, professional finishes.
• Reliability and a strong work ethic.
$10 per hour
The successful candidate should be self-motivated and energetic, and this post requires some interaction with international clients at private villas. The duties include but are not limited to:
• Lifting boxes and setting up culinary pots and pans in the shop as well as at various villa locations.
• Ensuring that cooking and
surrounding areas are cleaned and always sanitized.
• Cleaning the kitchen area and ensuring garbage is properly disposed.
• Assisting cook with serving guests at private villas.
• Assisting cooks where necessary and as directed at private villas and shop.
• Salary - $1,600.00 per month.
VACANCIES
CAMCO ENTERPRISES LTD.
Grace Bay Provo TCI, 649-231-2363
KITCHEN HELPER $8.00 p/h
Assist in basic food preparation, Cleans and sanitize s kitchen equipment.
POSEIDON CHARTERS
Regent Villa, Grace Bay, 649-232-3633
COOK $2000 per month
Planning and preparing meals in accordance with crew schedules and preferences.
JERMAINE JENNINGS
We are seeking a highly organized and motivated Warehouse Supervisor to oversee daily operations in our warehouse. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and a hands-on approach to managing a team while ensuring efficiency and safety standards are met.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Supervise warehouse staff and coordinate daily activities.
• Ensure all operations comply with safety regulations and company policies.
• Monitor inventory levels and oversee stock control.
• Schedule and assign tasks to team members to optimize workflow.
• Conduct regular audits to maintain quality and accuracy in inventory.
• Train and mentor new employees on warehouse procedures and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure timely order fulfillment and accuracy.
• Ability to work in cold environment -10 degrees Fahrenheit QUALIFICATIONS:
• Proven experience in Grocery / Restaurant / Food Service operations and supervision.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Proficient in using warehouse management systems and standard office software.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulations in a warehouse environment.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Wages start at gross $770 per week.
Blue Hills Provo TCI, 649-241-5612
DOMESTIC WORKER
$8.00 p/h
Performing variety housework task
SHANTEL DORICE JENNINGS
Blue Hills Provo TCI, 649-246-1199 DOMESTIC WORKER
$8.00 p/h
Performing variety housework task
JH LANDSCAPING LTD.
The Bight Provo TCI, 649-347-4710 GARDENER $8.00 p/h
Pruning trees and shrubs; Planting seeds and growing plants or flowers.
DESIGN BUILD ASSOCIATES LTD.
The Regeant Village, Grace Bay Provo TCI, 649-941-4394
ADMINISTRATIVE
p/h
Update records and store them in line with data protection legislation
Performing manual task
p/h
ROOM
ATTENDANT
JOB SUMMARY:
Ensure all guestrooms are cleaned to established standards.
Stocks Room Attendant cart to the established standards
BASE SALARY RANGE: $8.00/hour to commensurate with qualification & experience. BENEFITS: Service gratuity, vacation & employee meals.
JOB SUMMARY:
As a Houseman, you are responsible for cleaning guest rooms, carrying linen and replenishing amenities to deliver an excellent Guest and Member experience.
REQUIREMENTS:
• A Houseman is always working on behalf of our Owners, Guests and working with other Team Members.
• Must speak, read, write, and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace.
• Must work PM shifts as business demands according to the operations policy.
• Must work weekends and holidays.
BASE SALARY RANGE: $8.00 / hour to commensurate with qualification & experience.
BENEFITS: Service gratuity, vacation & employee meals.
DOMESTIC WORKER
TILE LAYER
HELPER HELPER HELPER CLEANER
STEEL FIXER
ABOUT US:
Blu Wave Contracting is a trusted name in construction, committed to delivering quality and precision in every project. We are currently seeking experienced and skilled Steel Fixers to join our team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Read and interpret construction drawings and blueprints.
• Cut, bend, and tie steel bars or mesh to reinforce concrete structures.
• Assemble and install steel reinforcements in various forms, including columns, beams, and slabs.
• Measure, align, and secure steel reinforcement bars in compliance with engineering specifications.
• Work collaboratively with other construction
team members to meet project timelines.
REQUIREMENTS:
• Proven experience as a Steel Fixer or in a similar role.
• Knowledge of safety standards and procedures on construction sites.
• Ability to read technical drawings and specifications.
• Skilled in using hand tools and cutting equipment for steel fixing tasks.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
WHAT WE OFFER:
• Competitive wages based on experience.
• Opportunities for growth and skill development.
• A safe and supportive work environment. PAY: $10 per hour
DRYWALL FINISHER
ABOUT US:
Blu Wave Contracting specializes in delivering top-quality construction services. We are seeking a skilled and reliable Drywall Finisher to join our team and contribute to our high standards of craftsmanship.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Prepare drywall panels for painting by applying joint compound and taping seams.
• Sand surfaces to ensure smooth finishes.
• Repair cracks, holes, or
imperfections on walls and ceilings.
• Apply corner beads,
REQUIREMENTS:
and
• Experience as a Drywall Finisher or in a similar role.
• Skilled in using tools such as taping knives, sanding blocks, and trowels.
• Knowledge of construction safety standards and procedures.
• Attention to detail and ability to deliver clean, professional finishes.
• Reliability and a strong work ethic. PAY: $10 per hour
Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Is Seeking for a
TECHNICIAN
RAMP AGENT
• Assisting with towing and pushback
• Ensuring the safety and security of the area around a parked airplane
Applicants are expected to have a proven record as a general manager of a branded real estate company. Candidates need to have an understanding of the real estate market of the Islands, experience in selling real estate, and the ability to guide and interact with sales agents and administrative staff. Turks & Caicos Islanders are preferred. Salary is over $100k p.a., negotiable.
Applicants are expected to have recent real estate sales experience and a thorough understanding of the Turks and Caicos real estate. This is a full-time commission only position.
2 MECHANICS
JOB DESCRIPTION
• Perform maintenance and repair on customer vehicles.
• Identify problems with vehicles using the diagnostic equipment.
• Explain automotive repairs and issues and provide great Customer service.
• Plan repair procedures using charts manuals and experience.
• Test the functionality of parts and systems
• Perform basic auto care and maintenance tasks such as oil Changes, fluid level checks, and tire rotation.
• Repair and replace brake pads, wheel bearings, sensors, and Other parts.
• Perform routine maintenance and general mechanic work on Vehicles.
• Prepared to get the additional certification as needed.
• Willingness to learn with hands-on training.
• Help keep repair shop clean and organized.
• Keep a professional appearance.
@
& $15 PER HOUR
Regent House, F205, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Is Seeking
Science & Technology
UK’s biggest ever dinosaur footprint site unearthed
The UK’s biggest ever dinosaur trackway site has been discovered in a quarry in Oxfordshire.
About 200 huge footprints, which were made 166 million years ago, criss-cross the limestone floor.
They reveal the comings and goings of two different types of dinosaurs that are thought to be a long-necked sauropod called Cetiosaurus and the smaller meateating Megalosaurus.
The longest trackways are 150m in length, but they could extend much further as only part of the quarry has been excavated.
“This is one of the most impressive track sites I’ve ever seen, in terms of scale, in terms of the size of the tracks,” said Prof Kirsty Edgar, a micropalaeontologist from the University of Birmingham.
“You can step back in time and get an idea of what it would have been like, these massive creatures just roaming around, going about their own business.”
The tracks were first spotted by Gary Johnson, a worker at Dewars Farm Quarry, while he was driving a digger.
“I was basically clearing the clay, and I hit a hump, and I thought it’s just an abnormality in the ground,” he said, pointing to a ridge where some mud has been pushed up as a dinosaur’s foot pressed down into the earth.
“But then it got to another, 3m along, and it was a hump again. And then it went another 3mhump again.”
Another trackway site had been found nearby in the 1990s, so he realised the regular bumps and dips could be dinosaur footprints.
“I thought I’m the first person to see them. And it was so surreal - a bit of a tingling moment, really,” he told BBC News.
This summer, more than 100 scientists, students and volunteers joined an excavation at the quarry which features on the new series of Digging for Britain.
The team found five different trackways.
Four of them were made by sauropods, plant-eating dinosaurs that walked on four legs. Their footprints look a bit like an elephant’s - only much much bigger - these beasts reached up to 18m in length.
Another track is thought to have been created by a Megalosaurus.
“It’s almost like a caricature of a dinosaur footprint”, explained Dr Emma Nicholls, a vertebrate palaeontologist from the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.
“It’s what we call a tridactyl print. It’s got these three toes that are very, very clear in the print.”
The carnivorous creatures, which walked on two legs, were agile hunters, she said.
“The whole animal would have been 6-9m in length. They were the largest predatory dinosaurs that we know of in the Jurassic period in Britain.”
The environment they lived in was covered by a warm, shallow
lagoon and the dinosaurs left their prints as they ambled across the mud.
“Something must have happened to preserve these in the fossil record,” said Prof Richard Butler, a palaeobiologist from the University of Birmingham.
“We don’t know exactly what, but it might be that there was a storm event that came in, deposited a load of sediments on top of the footprints, and meant that they were preserved rather than just being washed away.”
The team studied the trackways in detail during the dig. As well as making casts of the tracks, they took more than 20,000 photographs to create 3D models of both the complete site and individual footprints.
“The really lovely thing about a dinosaur footprint, particularly if you have a trackway, is that it is a snapshot in the life of the animal,” Prof Butler explained.
“You can learn things about how that animal moved. You can learn exactly what the environment that it was living in was like. So tracks give us a whole different set of information that you can’t get from the bone fossil record.”
One area of the site even reveals where the paths of a sauropod and megalosaurus once crossed.
The prints are so beautifully preserved that the team have been able to work out which animal passed through first - they believe it was the sauropod, because the front edge of its large, round
Scientists think these distinctive three-toed prints were made by a Megalosaurus
footprint is slightly squashed down by the three-toed megalosaurus walking on top of it.
“Knowing that this one individual dinosaur walked across this surface and left exactly that print is so exhilarating,” said Dr Duncan Murdock from Oxford University.
“You can sort of imagine it making its way through, pulling its legs out of the mud as it was
going.”
The future fate of the trackways hasn’t yet been decided but the scientists are working with Smiths Bletchington, who operate the quarry, and Natural England on options for preserving the site for the future.
They believe there could be more footprints, these echoes of our prehistoric past, just waiting to be discovered. (BBC)
Nasa makes history with closest-ever approach to Sun
A Nasa spacecraft has made history by surviving the closestever approach to the Sun.
Scientists received a signal from the Parker Solar Probe just before midnight EST on Thursday (05:00 GMT on Friday) after it had been out of communication for several days during its burning-hot fly-by.
Nasa said the probe was “safe” and operating normally after it passed just 3.8 million miles (6.1 million km) from the solar surface.
The probe plunged into our star’s outer atmosphere on Christmas Eve, enduring brutal temperatures and extreme radiation in a quest to better our understanding of how the Sun works.
Nasa then waited nervously for a signal, which had been expected at 05:00 GMT on 28 December.
Parker Solar Probe broke records as it made its burning-hot fly-by
allows Parker Solar Probe to take measurements that help scientists better understand how material in this region gets heated to millions of degrees, trace the origin of the solar wind (a continuous flow of material escaping the Sun), and discover how energetic particles are accelerated to near light speed,” the agency said.
Dr Nicola Fox, head of science at Nasa, previously told BBC News: “For centuries, people have studied the Sun, but you don’t experience the atmosphere of a place until you actually go [and] visit it.
“And so we can’t really experience the atmosphere of our star unless we fly through it.”
Parker Solar Probe launched in 2018, heading to the centre of our solar system.
It had already swept past the
Sun 21 times, getting ever nearer, but the Christmas Eve visit was record-breaking.
At its closest approach, the probe was 3.8 million miles (6.1 million km) from our star’s surface. That might not sound that close, but Dr Fox put it into perspective. “We are 93 million miles away from the Sun, so if I put the Sun and the Earth one metre apart, Parker Solar Probe is 4cm from the Sun - so that’s close.”
The probe endured temperatures of 1,400C and radiation that could have frazzled the on-board electronics.
It was protected by an 11.5cm (4.5in) thick carbon-composite shield, but the spacecraft’s tactic
Science & Technology
The comb jelly, one of the oldest animals on Earth, can fuse with another
Late one summer night in 2023, Kei Jokura entered the marine biology lab at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts excitedly carrying a blob in a beaker. The biologist had just come from the first floor, where tanks held a colony of gelatinous comb jellies.
The blob was bigger than others, and it looked as though two of the jellies had merged into one. “I couldn’t believe my eyes at first,” recalled Jokura, who was then a postdoctoral researcher at the UK’s University of Exeter.
Mariana Rodriguez-Santiago, a postdoctoral researcher at Colorado State University, was working on her own project when Jokura appeared. “We were all amazed and astonished, thinking, ‘How can they fuse and still be swimming and moving around like a unit?’” she said. She grabbed a pipette and gently poked one of the jellies. It squirmed. Simultaneously, so did the one to which it seemed to be attached. “We thought, ‘Are they able to feel the same thing? Are they one individual? Two individuals? How can we disentangle this?’” she recalled.
Over the next few weeks, Rodriguez-Santiago helped Jokura combine multiple pairs of the comb jellies, scientifically known as Mnemiopsis leidyi, to see what happened. The findings of the investigation led by Jokura, published October 7 in the journal Current Biology, showed that not only could two jellies fuse their bodies, but their nervous and
Besides their bodies, comb jellies, scientifically known as Mnemiopsis leidyi, also fuse their nervous and digestive systems, research found
digestive systems fused as well. Two effectively became one.
“The fusion phenomenon has definitely brought up many interesting questions, such as which genes are involved in fusion, what happens to neural signaling, and what defines ‘self’ and ‘nonself,’” said Jokura, now a postdoctoral researcher at Japan’s National Institute for Basic Biology. “Each of these themes has the potential to challenge our fundamental understanding of biology.”
Comb jellies are found all around the world in coastal waters and the deep ocean. Though they look similar to jellyfish, they don’t sting and belong to a different phylum, Ctenophora, which is Greek for “comb-bearers.” They are named for their combs, rows of hairlike
appendages called cilia they use to move through the water.
Ctenophores are one of, if not the, oldest animals on Earth — quite possibly a sister to all other animals in the tree of life, so “they provide a really unique opportunity to study fundamental aspects of nervous system function,” said Rodriguez-Santiago, coauthor of the study.
“They belong to a group of animals which were there when the very first animals evolved,” said Pawel Burkhardt, an evolutionary biologist and researcher at the University of Bergen in Norway. Burkhardt was coauthor of another October report on M. leidyi, published in the journal PNAS, showing that the jelly is able to develop
backward, reverting to an earlier life stage following stress. He was not involved in the study that appeared in Current Biology.
“The two recent papers highlight that ctenophores have the opportunity to adapt quickly to changing environments and that their developmental programs are potentially more flexible than seen in other animals,” he said.
FUSION AS A SURVIVAL MECHANISM
It also may be, Jokura’s paper suggests, that ctenophores lack the protective allorecognition mechanism that allows one organism to tell the difference between its own cells and tissues and those of another organism. In humans, for example,
Nasa makes history with closest-ever ...
was to get in and out fast.
In fact, it moved faster than any human-made object, hurtling at 430,000mph - the equivalent of flying from London to New York in less than 30 seconds.
Parker’s speed came from the immense gravitational pull it felt as it fell towards the Sun.
So why go to all this effort to “touch” the Sun?
Scientists hope that as the spacecraft passed through our star’s outer atmosphere - its corona - it will have collected
data that will solve a longstanding mystery.
“The corona is really, really hot, and we have no idea why,” explained Dr Jenifer Millard, an astronomer at Fifth Star Labs in Wales.
“The surface of the Sun is about 6,000C or so, but the corona, this tenuous outer atmosphere that you can see during solar eclipses, reaches millions of degrees - and that is further away from the Sun. So how is that atmosphere getting hotter?”
The mission should also help scientists better understand solar
wind - the constant stream of charged particles bursting out from the corona.
When these particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field the sky lights up with dazzling auroras.
But this so-called space weather can cause problems too, knocking out power grids, electronics and communication systems.
“Understanding the Sun, its activity, space weather, the solar wind, is so important to our everyday lives on Earth,” said Dr Millard.
Nasa scientists faced an
anxious wait over Christmas while the spacecraft was out of touch with Earth.
Dr Fox had been expecting the team to text her a green heart to let her know the probe was OK as soon as a signal was beamed back home.
She previously admitted she was nervous about the audacious attempt, but had faith in the probe.
“I will worry about the spacecraft. But we really have designed it to withstand all of these brutal, brutal conditions. It’s a tough, tough little spacecraft.” (BBC)
allorecognition underpins the organ rejection that happens in transplant surgeries.
Jokura was studying how M. leidyi responds to light when he discovered two injured specimens had become conjoined. Curious to recreate the phenomenon, he and Rodriguez-Santiago began experimenting. They sliced off parts of several jellies and placed excised pairs together in petri dishes overnight.
Nine out of 10 pairs fused successfully, resulting in animals with two sensory organs and two sets of anal openings, whereas typical jellies have only one of each.
As it turned out, the fusion happened much more quickly than the researchers expected, according to Jokura. “To observe the fusion process — when and how it happens — we performed time-lapse imaging,” he said. The research team placed cut jellies near each other and waited.
At first, the jellies continued to contract their muscles independently. Within an hour, their rhythmic movements started to synchronize. By the two-hour mark, they were in sync. When poked gently on one side, both sides of the combined organism contracted in unison.
Imaging demonstrated another layer to the fusion: The animals’ digestive systems also combined. The researchers fed a fluorescently labeled brine shrimp into one mouth of a pair of jellies that had been fused for two days. Then the team traced the meal’s movement through a microscope.
and willing to work Job offered: cleaning of tools & equipment after auto jobs work area, passing of tools to workman and disposing of all
Bottle Creek, North Caicos Is seeking to employ a
The UK’s oldest NFL fan club celebrates 40 years
In 1984 an unassuming appeal for Tampa Bay fans was placed in a UK American football magazine. It was during a season when the NFL team had lost more games than they had won and were being called one of the worst franchises in American sport.
Despite the team’s poor form, it struck a chord with fans, and the first supporters club for an NFL outfit this side of the Atlantic was set up. Forty years later - having supported the Buccaneers through heartbreak and two SuperBowl wins - the 500 Bucs UK members say it is like being part of a family.
“I was 13 when I replied to the advert,” Gareth James, one of the club’s first members, said.
Now 53-years-old, the NFL fan was looking to connect with other fans of a sport that was not readily available in the UK.
“I used to watch the Channel 4 coverage, which was an hour-
long show on a Sunday night, that showed the highlights from the week before,” Gareth, from Wilmslow, in Cheshire, said.
Gareth said while it was “a challenge” to keep up to date with the team’s progress, it also “made you a bit more of a hardcore fan, because you consumed absolutely everything you could find out about the team”.
From its humble roots in the 1980s, the club now has an online forum, a weekly podcast, numerous fantasy football leagues and watch parties - where fans gather to see live games on TV. It even organises trips to the USA to see the team in action.
To mark the club’s 40th anniversary, the Buccaneers, through their chief operating officer Brian Ford, held a birthday bash in Tampa in September.
It included a private meal at the Raymond James Stadium, a private
tour of the team’s headquarters and an opportunity to go on the field after the game against the Denver Broncos.
Mr Ford said it was a way to say thank you to the club that had shown a great “loyalty and passion” for the organisation.
“We have come a long way together in these past 40 years and look forward to strengthening our bond even more into the future,” he added.
Gareth said the club and its relationship with the team meant he had met some of his heroes - including Derrick Brooks and Mike Alstott - something he never thought possible when he joined as a teenager.
However, the highlight for him is meeting fellow fans in the UK.
“It’s all about those friendships. It’s people within the club who I’ve known for 20 or 30 years,” he said. (BBC)
Knicks extend winning run with victory over Jazz
The injury-hit New York Knicks extended their winning streak to nine games with a 119-103 victory against the Utah Jazz.
Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns starred for the Knicks, with the latter becoming just the third player in team history to record at least 30 points and 10 rebounds in three consecutive games.
The Knicks, whose record improved to 24-10, were missing star point guard Jalen Brunson for the first time this season because of a calf issue. Back-up guard Miles McBride sat out with a tight left hamstring.
The Jazz had raced into an 18-8 lead before falling to a fifth straight loss (7-25).
Elsewhere, Nikola Jokic scored 23 points, 17 rebounds and 15 assists for his 14th triple-double of the season as the Denver Nuggets defeated the Atlanta Hawks 139-120.
In Detroit, the Pistons’ 105-96 win over the Orlando Magic was overshadowed by a potentially
serious leg injury suffered by Jaden Ivey.
The star point guard scored 22 points before injuring his left leg early in the fourth quarter when Orlando’s Cole Anthony collided with his leg while diving for a loose ball.
Ivey’s team-mates were visibly upset when he left the court on a stretcher.
The Toronto Raptors ended an 11-game losing streak with a 130-113 victory against the Brooklyn Nets, while the New Orleans Pelicans slipped to an 11th consecutive loss in a defeat by the Miami Heat.
The Washington Wizards disposed of the Chicago Bulls 125-107, while the Sacramento Kings overtook the Philadelphia 76ers with a late comeback win in California (113-107).
The Houston Rockets returned to winning ways with a 11099 victory against the Dallas Mavericks. (BBC)
Bryce James, son of NBA superstar LeBron James, commits to Arizona
Bryce James, the younger son of basketball legend LeBron James, has committed to the University of Arizona as a member of the Wildcats’ 2025 class.
The 17-year-old made the announcement on Instagram with a photoshopped image of himself playing for the team next to Wildcats head coach Tommy Lloyd, along with the caption “100% committed.”
Bryce’s father, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron, posted the same graphic on Instagram along with the message: “CONGRATULATIONS
MAXIMUS!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!!”
Bryce is rated by ESPN scouts as a four-star prospect. He played
Bryce James
14 games last year for his father’s Strive for Greatness program on the
League circuit, in which he averaged 6.9 points and 2.2 rebounds. His shooting was 39%
from the field and 36.8% from three-point range.
The six-foot-four small forward also had offers from Ohio State and Duquesne, per ESPN.
The Dukes, who are coached by LeBron’s close friend and high school teammate Dru Joyce III, made an offer all the way back in the summer of 2022.
Bryce joins Arizona as the second player recruited to the 2025 class, following the arrival of top prospect Dwayne Aristode in October. The Wildcats are reportedly still chasing three top15 players: Koa Peat, Brayden Burries and Alijah Arenas.
LeBron’s older son Bronny spent one season with USC in 2023-24, but suffered a cardiac arrest due to
a congenital heart defect before the season, which limited him to six starts for the Trojans.
He was selected by the Lakers in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, before he and LeBron became the league’s first father-son duo to feature in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in October.
Speculation over LeBron’s future has been rife all season. “To be honest, if I really wanted to, I could probably play this game at a high level, probably about another – weird that I might say it – about another five or seven years if I wanted to,” the four-time league MVP said on Monday, his 40th birthday. “But I’m not going to do that.” (CNN)
Karl-Anthony Towns
Bucs UK holds watch parties across the UK - where fans can come together to watch the team play
Sports International
GB out of United Cup after Boulter loses to Swiatek
Katie Boulter fell agonisingly short of a stunning win over fivetime Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek as Great Britain’s hopes of reaching the United Cup semifinals were ended by Poland.
Boulter, 28, needed victory to send the best-of-three tie into a deciding doubles, but lost 6-7 (4-7) 6-1 6-4 against world number two Swiatek in Sydney.
The pair showed their mutual respect with a warm embrace at the net after an enthralling contest which lasted almost three hours.
“I’m exhausted. I’m happy I won so I didn’t have to play the doubles,” said Swiatek.
“This match was so crazy, there were so many changes of momentum.”
Britain’s hopes relied on Boulter causing a shock against the fivetime major champion after Billy Harris narrowly lost to former world number six Hubert Hurkacz.
Harris, 29, pushed 16th-ranked Hurkacz in the opening match of the best-of-three tie before going
down 7-6 (7-3) 7-5.
Poland, who were one of the pre-tournament favourites, will face Kazakhstan in the last four on Saturday.
HOW BOULTER PUSHED SWIATEK CLOSE IN THRILLER
Carrying added belief from the finest season of her career last year, Boulter has been a talismanic presence for Britain in the mixed gender team event.
The world number 24 led her nation into the quarter-finals with crucial singles victories against Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska and
Australia’s Olivia Gadecki in the group stage.
Facing Swiatek was a step up in class, but presented an opportunity for Boulter to showcase her ability against the most dominant player on the WTA Tour over the past three seasons.
A rampant start by the Pole, who moved 4-1 ahead in the first set, was ominous for the Briton, but she showed her quality in a spirited response.
Causing problems with her baseline power, Boulter began to match Swiatek’s intensity and put a contest which showcased the crisp ball-striking of both players back on serve.
Swiatek has sometimes struggled to get to grips with heavy-hitting opponents, often becoming less accurate with her returning as she tries to match their power.
Errors crept in as Boulter continued to pummel her groundstrokes, with the Briton playing some of the best tennis of
her career to move into a one-set lead.
Sustaining that level was not going to be easy, though.
Swiatek hit back by making another strong start in the second set, taking some of the pace out of the rallies with loopier returns and going on to comfortably level.
Momentum continued to fluctuate as Boulter bounced back to secure an early break in the decider.
After Swiatek took a medical timeout, the Briton lost the next eight points as her 2-1 lead turned into a 3-2 deficit, while both players were unable to take further break points in the eighth and ninth games.
Had Boulter taken her chance, it would have left her serving for the biggest win of her career by ranking.
Instead, Swiatek survived and broke Boulter to love, throwing her racquet high into the air to demonstrate her relief at coming through. (BBC)
Dabrowski reveals she played through breast cancer treatment in 2024
On the tennis court, the results show that Gabriela Dabrowski had a successful 2024. The Canadian won the end-of-season WTA Finals in doubles with Erin Routliffe and a bronze medal in mixed doubles with Felix Auger-Aliassime at the Paris Olympics.
But Dabrowski, a three-time doubles grand slam champion, has since revealed that she privately was fighting a battle off the court for most of the season.
“How can something so small cause such a big problem? This is the question I asked myself when I was diagnosed with breast cancer back in mid-April,” Dabrowski, 32, wrote in a post on Instagram.
“I know this will come as a shock to many, but I am okay and I will be okay. Early detection saves lives. I can wholeheartedly agree with this.”
Dabrowski said she first felt a lump during a self-exam in the spring of 2023, but that a doctor a few months later said it was nothing and not to worry. However, in spring of 2024, Dabrowski said she thought the lump was a little bigger, and a WTA doctor told her she wasn’t sure what it was and to get it scanned.
Following a mammogram, an ultrasound and then a biopsy, Dabrowski received the cancer diagnosis. “These are words you never expect to hear, and in an
instant your life or the life of a loved one turns upside down,” Dabrowski wrote.
Dabrowski details that she underwent two surgeries but that there was “a slight delay in further treatment” so she could compete at Wimbledon and the Olympics.
She reached the Wimbledon women’s doubles final with Routliffe, losing to Katerina Siniakova and Taylor Townsend in the championship. A few weeks later, she won Olympic bronze in Paris with Auger-Aliassime.
Dabrowski went on to end her season by winning the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November, teaming up with Routliffe to defeat Siniakova and Townsend in the championship. The pair went unbeaten in the tournament and won $1,125,000 in prize money as a team. In her Instagram post, Dabrowski said that “ending the season on the highest note possible… it all seems surreal.”
Dabrowski wasn’t ready to go public with her news then – even
while she hit autographed pink tennis balls for breast cancer awareness into the crowd at the event.
“Why am I sharing my story now? For a long time, I wasn’t ready to expose myself to the possible attention and questions I’d have gotten before,” Dabrowski said. “I wanted to figure everything out and handle things privately with only those closest to me in the loop. There were so many unknowns and so much learning and research to be done.
“Currently I’m in a place where I have a better grasp of my treatment, side effects and how to manage them. Please know I am fully aware of how lucky I am as well, because many do not get the luxury of being able to tell their story at all.”
Dabrowski, currently ranked No. 3 in the world in women’s doubles, said it’s a privilege to be able to call herself a survivor and that the cancer diagnosis gave her an opportunity to “see challenges through a different lens: a lens of gratitude.”
“If you saw me smiling more on court in the past 6 months, it was genuine,” Dabrowski said. “That wasn’t always the case. While I have been actively working on improving my attitude for many years through therapy and other guidance, my cancer diagnosis was the catalyst for more sustained change.
“When the threat of losing everything I’d worked for my entire life became a real possibility, only then did I begin to authentically appreciate what I had. Loving parents and friends, amazing coaches, a doubles partner who stuck by me, a real team, access to health care experts, and to play a game for a living.”
Dabrowski concluded her post with: “To cancer I say f**k you, but also, thank you.” (BBC)
Katie Boulter is ranked 24th in the world after the best season of her career in 2024
Gabriela Dabrowski of Team Canada won Olympic bronze in mixed doubles with Felix Auger-Aliassime at the Paris Olympics on August 2
Sports National
JANUARY
The Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) started off the New Year, with the announcement of a partnership between Brock University from Canada and the TCI in an effort to spread the game of rugby. With the deal in place, Brock University students and faculty members visited the TCI to engage with students in all the high schools in the islands.
In track and field, the Turks and Caicos Islands CARIFTA Games bronze medallist, Love Joseph started his 2024 athletic season with a win in the 3000m, competing in the U17 boys’ division at the DTSP Wolf Pack Track Club Invitational in Nassau Bahamas.
Also in track, ace national field athlete Antwon Walkin broke his national U20 record at the McKenley/Wint Track and Field Classic 2024 at the Calabar High School in Jamaica.
The 18-year-old bettered his discus throw in the class one 1.75kg category. His throw of 54m propelled him to a fourth-place finish in the event. His previous best U20 throw was 52.2m.
In football, the Academy Eagles stormed to the Provo Premier League (PPL) Apertura title (first half of the season) after winning all eight games in the round. In their latest clash, they got past Cheshire Hall FC 2-0. In the match, Mike Legerme found the back of the net in the sixth minute of play before Mykerwens Varis carried the side 2-0 ahead in the 45th minute.
In softball, the Marjorie Basden Lady Knights stormed to championship honours in the TCISS Inter-High Softball Championships. Playing at home HJ Robinson Stallions had the crowd, but the Knights kept their composure and registered a comfortable 13-4 win.
In the semi-finals, they got past the Wesley Methodist Angels 7-3, while the Stallions edged past BWIC 16-15 in an exciting clash.
Wesley Methodist eased to a commanding 12-0 victory over BWIC in the third-place battle.
FEBRUARY
In February, a dominant, flawless performance from the Clement Howell High School (CHHS) Eagles propelled them to championship honours again in the Turks and Caicos Islands School Sports (TCISS) 2023/2024 Inter-High Boys Basketball Championships.
The event, at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex court, culminated with the Eagles whipping the previously unbeaten HJ Robinson High School Stallions 103-62. Dashawn Lightbourne was named the championship MVP.
Love Joseph
The Academy Eagles
The Lady Knights were exceptional in the championship softball clash
Antwon Walkin improved his U20 record
Tanesia Gardiner powered her way to 1500m gold U18 champions, the Clement Howell High School with President of the TCIRFU, Keith Burant
Sports National
In athletics, national middle distance athlete, Tanesia Gardiner powered her way to a 1500m gold medal in the Grace Kennedy STETHS Invitational track meet in St Elizabeth Jamaica.
The talented athlete from the Edwin Allen High School in Jamaica, ran 5:07.70 minutes at the event.
In rugby, Clement Howell and Louise Garland won the U18 and U15 Inter-Islands High School Rugby Championships.
Louise Garland faced Provo Middle School in the finals of the U15 competition and although the battle proved intense, the former ended ahead 3-2.
In the U18 final, CHHS defeated Louise Garland 5-2. Some 14 teams and 156 players competed in the tournament.
In March, the A. Louise Garland Thomas High (ALGTHS) defended their TCISS Inter-High Track and Field title with a scintillating performance which earned them 24 gold medals in the three-day event.
The win means they have now won the high school title for the third consecutive time, 2020, 2023 and 2024. They finished second in 2019.
The Covid-19 Pandemic restricted the event in 2021 and in 2022 there was a CARIFTA trial, but no Inter-High.
Like last year, the Clement Howell High School (CHHS) were once again the main competitor and they looked solid, but ALGTHS were more clinical to victory.
At the younger level, Ona Glinton Primary School won the Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships title.
The ace-primary school athletes have dominated the primary school event over the years. During the competition, they amassed 368 points.
Second place went to Enid Capron Primary School with 211 points, with Oseta Jolly Primary placing third on 194 points.
In hockey, the GBCR Islanders, the Temple Financial Panthers and the Waratah Flyers were crowned champions of the Da Conch Shack’s Provo Hockey League (PHL) after triumphing in the finals of the event at the Graceway Sports Centre.
The Islanders and Flyers registered easy victories, while the Panthers withheld a second-period surge from the TMW Lightning to register a 4-3 win.
In the Novice Division, the Islanders made relatively light work of the Saunders and Co Greyhounds with a 10-4 victory, while the Flyers defeated the Canadiens 6-2 in the Junior Division.
Continues next week
Clement Howell High School Eagles defended their title
ALGHS defended their Inter High title
Ona Glinton are three-time Inter-Primary School Track and Field champions
The Temple Financial Panthers won the Bantam Division title
