Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Marc Rawlins as the new Chair of the Human Rights Commission, and the appointment of Dr. François Bourne, Ms. Llana Ewing and Rev. Frednor Toussaint as members of the Commission, marking an important step in strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The appointments are made by the Governor, acting after consultation with the Hon. Premier and the Hon. Leader of the Opposition, in accordance with Section 101(1) of the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Section 3(2) of the Human Rights Commission Ordinance.
New Chair of the Human Rights Commission
Mr. Marc Rawlins, who currently serves as Deputy Chair of the Human Rights Commission, brings over10 years of experience in law, corporate governance and regulatory compliance. He has previously served as Legal Adviser and Secretary to the Board of Commissioners of the Financial Services Commission and is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and Chartered Director. His appointment as Chair provides both continuity of leadership and a strong legal foundation for the Commission’s work
New Members of the Human Rights Commission
Dr. François Bourne is a General Physician with extensive experience in community health and national service. He has served as a member of both the National Health Insurance Board and the National Insurance Board and continues to make significant contributions to primary care in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Ms. Llana Ewing brings a strong background in operations, human resources and organisational development within the hospitality and service sectors, having served as Director of Quality Assurance and Training at Grace Bay Resorts and currently as Director of Rooms at Point Grace Resort.
Rev. Frednor Toussaint, Superintendent of the South Turks and Caicos Islands Circuit of the Methodist Church, has over 25 years of ministry and community service, working to strengthen faith-based engagement and social inclusion across the Islands.
Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointments, stating:
“I congratulate Mr Marc Rawlins on his appointment as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. Having served with distinction as Deputy Chair, he brings not only a depth of experience, but a steadfast commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights across our Islands. I am confident that under his leadership, the Commission will continue to plays a vital role in ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all who call the Turks and Caicos Islands home are respected and protected.
I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to outgoing Chair Ms Roxanne Wake-Forbes for her leadership and unwavering dedication as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. Under her stewardship, the Commission has deepened its impact and strengthened the foundations of human rights protections across our Islands.
Finally, I wish to express my appreciation to Ms Melanie Smith, whose term also concludes. Her contributions have enriched the Commission’s work and helped shape policies that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
“Together, these individuals exemplify the values we hold dear – commitment, courage and compassion in service to the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Mr. Marc Rawlins, the incoming Chair of the Human Rights Commission, expressed his appreciation on behalf of the new members:
“It is an honour to be entrusted with this responsibility to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Human rights form the cornerstone of any democratic society and we are committed to ensuring that the Commission continues to promote and protect these rights with transparency and fairness. We look forward to engaging with communities across the Islands to raise awareness and strengthen confidence in the human rights framework”.
