Minister for Utilities has directed the Energy and Utilities Commissioner to initiate Public Utility Regulatory Reform Policy.
In a decisive move to address the increasing needs of our rapidly growing islands, the Minister for Public Safety and Utilities has directed the Energy and Utilities Commissioner to initiate the consultation period for the Multisector Public Utility Regulatory Reform Policy.
The Turks and Caicos Islands have witnessed unprecedented growth, bringing to the forefront the urgent need for regulatory reform in our utility sector. The current challenges, including requests for rate increases and water shortages, underscore the limitations of our existing regulatory framework to effectively manage and mitigate such issues.
As such, Hon. Knowles the Minister responsible for Energy and Utilities, has asked the Energy and Utilities Commissioner to begin a consultation period, signaling a commitment to overhaul the regulatory system that governs our essential services.
Starting from the 25th of March 2024 and concluding on the 24th of May 2024, this consultation period marks a pivotal step towards establishing a regulatory framework that is both inclusive and attuned to the diverse needs of our community.
The ministry invites service providers, consumer groups, industry experts, and the wider community to participate actively in shaping a regulatory environment that ensures affordability, reliability, competitiveness, innovation, and environmental sustainability.
The envisaged regulatory reforms will not only address the concerns highlighted by the applications from FortisTCI and the operational challenges faced by Provo Water Company but also lay the groundwork for a sustainable utility infrastructure that can accommodate the future growth of our islands.
A unified Regulatory Commission, as proposed, will serve as the cornerstone of this new framework, offering comprehensive oversight and ensuring that utility services are aligned with the nation’s development goals and the well-being of our community.
We encourage all stakeholders to engage with this process by attending the scheduled sessions, providing feedback, and submitting comments on the draft policy. This collaborative approach is essential to crafting a regulatory framework that reflects the collective vision and priorities of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION WELCOMES THE UNICEF TO THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
The UNICEF Eastern Caribbean Area Office is continuing its efforts, in collaboration with the UNESCO subregional office for the Caribbean, to support member countries in the transforming Education Agenda. Dr. Gale Rigobert was hired to conduct consultation in the Overseas Territories. The lead consultant, Dr. Gale Rigobert, is no stranger to Education Change in the region. She will be visiting the islands during the period April 9th to 13th to conduct the Turks and Caicos leg of this project. While in the Turks and Caicos, she is expected to meet with several groups and stakeholders as well as key Government Officials.
The objectives of the consultation will be to identify country priorities for the transforming Education Agenda and align efforts with regional governance agencies and development partner technical and financial support.
In particular there have been increasing concerns about the extent to which COVID-19 has exacerbated pre-existing inequalities in the education system, thus deepening learning loss and the attendant global learning crisis, with the understanding that the most vulnerable groups experienced the most disproportionate disadvantage. While learning loss and knowledge gaps preoccupy many, other seemingly latent issues have a significant bearing on the learning experiences of students as well.
The above concern motivated a special summit in September 2022 and by extension the transforming education agenda. The Transforming Education Summit in September sought to renew the global commitment to education as the greatest public good. It pursues to mobilize ambition, action, solutions, and solidarity to deliver on existing commitments, to leverage a reimagining of education to help recover pandemic-related learning losses and revitalize efforts to achieve SDG 4 between now and 2030.
Hon. Rachel Taylor Minister responsible for Education noted that, ‘we are looking forward to the visit of the consultant. Her visit will allow us to gather valuable data on learning loss in TCI and this will assist in the development of initiatives to close those gaps.
Cherylann Jones Permanent Secretary for the Ministry endorsed the sentiments of the Minister and noted that the meetings will also provide an opportunity to discuss other areas of support for the Education Sector of Turks and Caicos and strengthen the existing relationship.
The Opening Ceremony will be held at the Shore Club on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 9:30 am. The consultation aims to allow governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), academic institutions, the private sector, and youth representatives to share their opinions of education for the future.
TCIFA Resumes Special Education Football Training Program
The Special Education Football Training Program is back!
The beauty of sports should be experienced by all children despite any differences that may arise. One of the most important aspects of sports is diversity. Every sport should be accepting of cultural, religious and biological differences. The TCIFA Special Education Football Training Program isn’t just accepting of differences but also embraces them. Coaches Ava Robertson and Bertha-Lee Belle possess great experience in coaching children with Down syndrome, autism, and physical disabilities.
The program offers children with special needs the chance to partake in the sport of football within an environment tailored to accommodate their specific requirements. It is led by Coaches Ava Robertson and Berthalee Belle who both possess a strong passion for reaching special needs children and providing them with a fun, suitable environment to play in.
The process for joining the Special Ed. Training sessions require that parents of each child fill out the TCIFA registration form, and sign a waiver. Parents are allowed to register without submitting a donation immediately. Football kits will be
received by parents once they are available.
Training times are from 4:00pm to 5:00pm during daylight savings time, and 3:00pm to 4:00pm during standard time. They involve football techniques like controlling, receiving, passing, shooting and dribbling, with wach session ending with small sided games.
The Special Education Football Training Program accommodates children as young as 5 years old, extending to teenagers. Moreover, it emphasizes fundamental values like following directions, fostering teamwork, promoting tolerance, respect, and self-care within the curriculum to the fullest extent possible.
Statement on CARIFTA Games Travel Dispute with the North Caicos Stars
It is quite unfortunate the chain of events that led to J-Nevo Handfield Agenor’s experience during his travel back from Grenada, with the North Caicos Stars’ Junkanoo group. The Sports Commission empathizes with him and his family and we are relieved to be informed that Mr. Agenor has been safely transported to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The North Caicos Stars’ ensemble is an independent group that travelled to CARIFTA to support our athletes. Their performances were world-class and greatly appreciated by our athletes.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission assisted in the funding of the Turks and Caicos Amateur Athletic Association (TCAAA) to compete in these games, however, no travel or financial assistance was given to any other organizations or groups attending the competition on their own accord. It is also important to note that the Junkanoo group does not fall under the remit of the TCAAA which is a registered National Sport Federation.
We are relieved that the musician has returned to his family safely and that he can continue to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands on an international stage.
Mr Jarrett Forbes
Director of Sports
3-DAY PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
GENERAL SITUATION: The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to be under the influence of a broad surface high pressure supporting pleasant weather conditions across the islands today.
WEATHER: Partly sunny and warm. Partly cloudy with isolated showers possible tonight.
WINDS: Southwest to the west at 10 knots or less, becoming northwest to the north at 10 knots or less tonight, falling light and variable at times
SEAS: 3 feet or less nearshore, 2 to 4 feet offshore
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 77°F
SUNSET: 07:05 PM
NEXT LOW TIDE: 12:40 PM (0.7 FT)
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 06:33 PM (2.3 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST FOR THE NEXT TWO DAYS: The high pressure will continue to shift eastward as a cold front reaches the Turks and Caicos Islands by Saturday morning and weakens. High pressure will build in the wake of the front and support moderate to fresh winds across the islands through Tuesday night.
FORECAST FOR SATURDAY
WEATHER: Partly cloudy with isolated showers possible. Mostly fair at night.
WINDS: Northwest to the north at 10 knots or less
SEAS: 1 to 3 feet
SUNRISE: 06:36 AM
SUNSET: 07:05 PM
LOW TIDE: 12:44 AM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 07:05 AM (3.0 FT)
FORECAST FOR SUNDAY
WEATHER: Partly sunny with isolated showers possible. Mostly fair at night.
WINDS: Northeasterly at 10 to 15 knots
SEAS: 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 06:35 AM
SUNSET: 07:05 PM
LOW TIDE: 01:45 AM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 07:55 AM (3.0 FT)
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
Ashley's Learning Center prepares for the 7th annual fundraiser concert
The 7th annual fundraiser concert for Ashley's Learning Center (ALC) special-needs school will showcase an impressive blend of community spirit and musical talent. The event, which takes place on Saturday, 13 April, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, is designed to support and enrich the lives of autistic children. It aims to celebrate music while securing a brighter future for students with special needs.
The evening promises performances by renowned musicians from the New World Symphony and Juilliard School of Music, alongside moving presentations by ALC students. This harmonious blend of local and international talent underscores the event's mission: to garner support for children who navigate the world differently.
"Our goal is to sustain and enhance the school’s ability to support our students," says Williams, who leads the fundraiser with the dedicated staff of ALC. They are committed to fostering a nurturing atmosphere tailored to special-needs education, ensuring each child can achieve their full potential.
Importantly, proceeds from the concert will directly benefit local educational programs for children with autism. These initiatives address students' diverse needs and foster an environment that promotes development, inclusion, and empowerment. Such targeted funding is vital for ALC to continue as a beacon of hope and excellence in special-needs education.
Tickets for general seating at $150 and gallery seating at $200, each including dinner, are available to ensure a memorable experience for attendees. The public can purchase tickets through Isle Help (under Charities/Non-profits), the Unicorn Bookstore on Leeward Highway, or via direct contact. Additionally, organizations are encouraged to show their support by reserving a table for ten guests at $1,500.
This event is a testament to the community's solidarity with a noble cause. Beyond fundraising, Williams and her team aim to elevate autism awareness. Through showcasing the talents and accomplishments of its students, ALC challenges and shifts perceptions about autism, advocating for a society that values the contributions of all its members.
Source- Freelance Writer:AA
Governor DENIES FortisTCI rate increase.
Her Excellency the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands has reviewed the proposal by FortisTCI and its subsidiary TCU for a 6% increase in electricity rates expected to have commenced on April 1, 2024.
After a careful and comprehensive review of the application and submitted information from FortisTCI and its subsidiary TCU, the Governor has denied the application.
Should FortisTCI seek to challenge this decision, per the Electricity Ordinance, they have 21 days to request that the Governor appoint a person to hold a Public Inquiry regarding their proposal for a rate increase.
The Government 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 Governor remains committed to ensuring that the statutory process is followed and that utility rates are fair and competitive. Throughout this process, transparency and accountability remain paramount.
Police Force investigates robbery, theft, and a vehicle incident
Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force are actively investigating separate reports of robbery, theft, and a vehicle incident that occurred over the weekend on Grand Turk and Providenciales.
Sometime after 7 a.m. Monday, April 01st, the Grand Turk Police Station received a report that a black Honda Fit vehicle with license plate 30305 had been stolen.
The vehicle was secured by its owner and parked along Back Salina. However, upon returning, the owner discovered it missing.
On Sunday, March 31st, around 10:51 a.m., the Police Control Room received a call about a robbery at a supermarket along Industrial Drive, Providenciales.
Officers were dispatched and told two armed males had entered the premises, robbed the business, and ran off. Upon arrival, officers spotted one of the suspects and gave chase.
The suspect managed to escape in nearby bushes.
On Saturday, 30th March 2024, an 18-year-old female was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving following a motor vehicle incident.
Based on preliminary investigations, the incident occurred on March 28th around 5:22 pm.
The Police Control Room also received a report of a two-car collision along East Suburbs Road, Grand Turk, in which four persons were injured.
Also, ANTHONY SEYMOUR, 53, of Grand Turk, appeared in court on March 28th. charged with the following offenses:
a) One Count Robbery
b) One Court Possession of Controlled Drugs
Seymour, aka “Tony,” pleaded not guilty to possession of controlled drugs. The matter was adjourned to April 18th, 2024, for a sufficiency hearing.
The robbery offense was adjourned to May 03rd, 2024, for a sufficiency hearing.
The accused was remanded to H.M. Prison.
The charges were laid following an investigation into a robbery on March 25th, 2024, at a business establishment on North Back Salina, Grand Turk.
The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, and anonymously give any information on illegal activity or crimes.
MOESHA MORRIS APPOINTED AS SENIOR PROCUREMENT OFFICER
The Office of the Deputy Governor proudly announces the appointment of Ms. Moesha Morris to the post of Senior Procurement Officer in the Contracts and Corporate Performance Management Department within the Office of the Deputy Governor.
Ms. Morris' journey within the civil service commenced in 2016 when she joined the Human Resource Management Directorate as a Clerical Assistant, marking the beginning of her dedicated service to the nation. Demonstrating a keen intellect and a strong work ethic, she quickly made her mark, earning accolades for her contributions to the department's operations.
Building upon her foundational experiences, Ms. Morris pursued higher education, completing an Associate's Degree in General Studies (Humanities) at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for understanding human behavior, she embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Oxford Brookes University.
Upon the successful completion of her studies, Ms. Morris returned to the civil service in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose. With determination and dedication, she navigated through various roles, showcasing her versatility and commitment to professional development. From Administrative Officer to Scholarship Officer, and then to Procurement Officer, she steadily ascended the ranks, earning recognition for her exemplary performance and leadership qualities.
Ms. Morris is distinguished as a self-motivated, results-driven individual with a resolute work ethic and an unyielding pursuit of excellence in every endeavor. Her relentless commitment to continuous improvement is exemplified by her ongoing pursuit of professional certifications with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. These endeavors underscore her dedication to enhancing her expertise in procurement and project management, positioning her to provide invaluable counsel on procurement matters across government entities and public bodies.
Reflecting on her appointment, Ms. Morris expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve in her new capacity:
"I am thrilled and deeply honored to step into my new role as Senior Procurement Officer within the Contracts and Corporate Performance Management Department. This promotion is a testament to my belief that hard work and dedication truly prevail in the professional world. I am humbled by the recognition of my efforts and grateful for the opportunity to further contribute to our department's success. Achieving this promotion within just 12 months is truly remarkable, and it reinforces my commitment to excellence in every aspect of my work. I will remain committed to driving impactful outcomes and upholding the standards of the Public Service."
Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams in extending congratulatory remarks to Ms. Morris stated:
It is with great pleasure that I extend my congratulations to Ms. Moesha Morris on her appointment as Senior Procurement Officer in the Contracts and Corporate Performance Management Department within the Office of the Deputy Governor.
Ms. Morris' exemplary track record of academic achievement, professional competence, and dedication to public service make her an outstanding choice for this important role. Her passion for procurement excellence and her commitment to continuous improvement will undoubtedly contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement processes within government entities.
In her new capacity, Ms. Morris will play a vital role in driving forward the government's public sector investment programme, ensuring transparency, accountability, and value for money in the procurement of goods and services.
We wish Ms. Morris well as she continues to serve, and my office stand ready to assist in whichever we can to aide her further development.
Congratulations on your well-deserved appointment, Moesha!”
Accused Appears in Court
ANTHONY FRANKIN SEYMOUR, 53, of Grand Turk, appeared in court today (March 28th) charged with the following offenses.
a) One Count Robbery
b) One Court Possession of Controlled Drugs
Mr Seymour, aka “Tony,” pleaded not guilty to possession of controlled drugs. The matter was adjourned to April 18th, 2024, for a sufficiency hearing.
The robbery offense was adjourned to May 03rd, 2024, for a sufficiency hearing.
The accused was remanded to H.M. Prison.
The charges were laid following an investigation into a robbery on March 25th, 2024, at a business establishment on North Back Salina, Grand Turk.