The most recent TCI Post-Cabinet Statement has revealed that of all the recent COVID cases up to 15 September, 64% of these were residents. According to analysis, the country saw 93 cases of infection between 1 to 15 September, meaning that for this period, the first half of September, 60 of the 93 cases would have been residents, with the remaining 33 cases being visitors.
While we all want to see the end of the COVID pandemic, when compared to the rest of the region where cases are surging significantly, these numbers show that the TCI is managing the pandemic pretty well. If the trend holds, the TCI will end the month of September with just under 200 new infections for the month.
The latest dashboard figures for Wednesday 29 September show 8 new infections and one recovery. The total number of active cases stands at 53, with 48 cases on Providenciales and 5 on Grand Turk.
The Ministry of Health has surely taken its share of criticism over the pandemic but with more than 72% of residents inoculated against the virus, the 5th batch of vaccines now in country, a recovery rate of roughly 97%, and the TCI seeing record breaking tourism numbers this summer, ministry officials must be relieved and surely smiling.
The Honorable Premier Michael Missick, in his national address last Thursday, noted that his administration was committed to creating a much-improved healthcare system during their term. The pandemic will continue to test their ability to do just that.
Cabinet Update
During that same Cabinet meeting on 15 September, a number of approvals were given and other matters discussed.
These include:
The approval of amendments to the COVID-19 Arriving Passengers Health Clearance Regulations to include persons arriving in TCI aboard naval and coast guard vessels.
The approval of a Cemetery Policy to support the drafting of new Cemetery Legislation.
The approval of the establishment of a force to assist with the management of the CDB Consultancy for the Integrated Solid Waste Management.
Cabinet also approved the commencement of negotiations for a development agreement between Beach Enclave Stargazer Ltd. And TCIG.
The approval was given for the purchase of the land and buildings for the Headquarters of the TCI Regiment and a joint Law Enforcement Training Academy.
Cabinet approved the implementation of the National Teaching Standards Framework.
HE the Deputy Governor, Anya Williams, has been appointed as co-chair of the Information Technology Steering Committee.
And at the meeting the Cabinet discussed the country’s financial performance for the first quarter of the fiscal year and approved publication of the first quarter financial report. The first quarter financial report for statutory bodies was also discussed and approved for publication.
