Former Bahamas legislator shot and killed
Former Member of Parliament Donald Saunders became the country’s 35th murder victim when he was gunned down on the outskirts of a club late Wednesday.
Saunders, an attorney turned politician, was a member of parliament for Tall Pines and Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly from 2017 to 2021.
The police report that Saunders, 49, was outside the club when at 9:15 pm (local time) two armed men approached him and other patrons and demanded cash.
“About five to six patrons were sitting out in the yard when two armed men, both were masked, held all of the patrons at bay and demanded cash. The patrons panicked and everybody ran in different directions.”
“Shots were fired. After a short while, the patrons who ran to the front realized that one of the adult males was not seen, and when they came back to check they met the lifeless body of an adult male lying face down,” said Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander.
The police believe that Saunders was not specifically targeted.
Source-CMC
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS DELEGATION ATTENDS THE NORTH CARIBBEAN SECURITY SUMMIT
Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, is in Nassau this week, leading a delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands to the Third Annual Northern Caribbean Security Summit. The forum brings together security leads from the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, the US and the UK to focus collective critical efforts against shared threats in the region.
The delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands includes the Hon. Minister of Immigration Arlington Musgrove, the Hon. Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles OBE KC and senior leaders from Border Force, the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Supervision, the Financial Intelligence Agency, the National Security Secretariat, the Regiment and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. Additionally, the UK delegation includes the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Deputy Director, the Head of the UK Joint Maritime Security Centre and regional leads from the Ministry of Defence and the National Crime Agency.
Her Excellency the Governor opened the Turks and Caicos Islands’ contribution with a strategic overview of the security situation and growing capabilities. Presentations were given by members of the delegation on the Turks and Caicos Islands’ security posture to tackle transnational organised crime, coordinated efforts in developing the intelligence picture, cyber security, border security, financial crimes and wider impacts from the deterioration of Haiti.
Her Excellency the Governor held meetings with partners to discuss and prioritise areas of tactical focus and joint operations around irregular migration and securing maritime borders, including with the Commissioner of the Royal Bahamian Police Force (with his senior leadership team), the Commodore of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, senior leaders of the US Coast Guard and the US Customs and Border Protection. Outcomes of which, underpin increased operational coordination and information sharing.
While in Nassau, Her Excellency also made courtesy visits to Her Excellency the Governor-General Cynthia A Pratt, Hon. Speaker of the House of Assembly Patrcia Deveaux, the Rt Rev Bishop Laish Boyd, the British High Commissioner to the Bahamas Tom Hartley, and the Turks and Caicos Islands Diaspora Office.
Ministry of Health and Human Services Launches Electronic Patient Care Report (Ambpro)
The Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly announces the successful launch of the Electronic Patient Care Report (ePCR), marking a historic milestone in emergency healthcare services. The official unveiling ceremony took place on March 12, 2024, at the Atrium conference room.
In attendance were distinguished dignitaries, including Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Honourable Jamell Robinson; Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Shaun D. Malcolm; Minister of Tourism, Environment, Maritime, Culture, Heritage and Religious Affairs, Honourable Josephine Connolly; Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services, Honourable Rachel Taylor; the Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Honourable Arlington Musgrove; and the Permanent Secretary of Health, Mrs Desiree Lewis, who recognized the significance of the ePCR system in promoting public health and safety. Their presence underscored the government's unwavering commitment to investing in healthcare infrastructure and technological advancements to serve the population's needs better. Thus reaffirming their support for initiatives aimed at improving emergency healthcare services and strengthening the National Emergency Medical Service's capabilities.
During the launch event, the Minister of Health and Human Services highlighted the transformative impact of the ePCR system on patient care and emergency response efforts. Emphasizing the importance of innovation in healthcare, the Minister expressed gratitude to the dedicated team of professionals who contributed to the development and implementation of the groundbreaking technology. The Deputy Premier praised the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in developing and implementing the ePCR system, affirming its potential to revolutionize emergency medical services, especially the pre-hospital management of citizens and visitors across the country.
The Director of Emergency Medical Services, Mr. Andy Brijmohansingh, spoke passionately about the importance of embracing technology to advance patient care. "The introduction of the Electronic Patient Care Report marks a new chapter in our commitment to providing high-quality emergency medical services," said Mr Brijmohansingh. "This innovative system empowers our teams with the tools they need to deliver swift and effective care while ensuring that patient information is accurately captured and securely shared."
The Electronic Patient Care Report (ePCR) represents a significant advancement in the National Ambulance Service's mission to deliver efficient and high-quality emergency medical care to citizens across the nation. Developed with cutting-edge technology and meticulous attention to detail, the ePCR system streamlines the documentation process, enhances communication, and ensures the seamless transfer of patient information between emergency responders and healthcare facilities.
The launch of the Electronic Patient Care Report marks a new chapter in the evolution of emergency medical services, promising enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and patient outcomes. With its implementation, the National Emergency Medical Services reaffirms its dedication to providing timely and effective care to individuals in their time of need.
For more information, please visit the Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
ONA GLINTON PRIMARY SCHOOL ARE TRIPLE INTER-PRIMARY SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONS
Coining the term 'Call it Ona' and pulling a '3-Peat', the Ona Glinton Primary School (OGPS) are Inter-Primary School Track and Field Champions for three consecutive years! The OGPS mustered a total of 368 points, placing them 157 points ahead of second place Enid Capron Primary School.
Champion Boy and Girl Awards
Champion Girl 7U
Eniyah Cox 14 points Enid Capron Primary School
Guillaume Woodmaine 14 points Enid Capron Primary School
Champion Boy 7U
Scheider Baptiste 15 points Ona Glinton Primary School
Tadaaki Anderson 15 points Adelaide Oemler Primary School
Champion Girl 9U
Sarah Rose 20 points Oseta Jolly Primary School
Miana Vernus 20 points Oseta Jolly Primary School
Champion Boy 9U
Walmsley Noel 33 points Oseta Jolly Primary School
Champion Girl 11U
Aaliyah Williams 21 points Ona Glinton Primary School
Champion Boy 11U
Marvens Doriscar 40 points Community Christian Academy
Champion Girl 13U
Naesha Petit 26 points Ianthe Pratt Primary School
Champion Boy 13U
Sneijder Registre 29.33 points Ona Glinton Primary School
The Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships closed the Turks and Caicos Islands School Sports Season 2023/24. The country now looks towards the upcoming knockout match between the Turks and Caicos Islands and Anguilla for the FIFA World Cup Concacaf Qualifiers on March 26, 2024 7:00pm. Following this, Team TCI competes in the CARIFTA Games Track and Field from 30 March to 1 April in Grenada and CARIFTA Aquatics in the Bahamas from March 30 - April 2.
DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS SERVICES MAKES STRIDES AT CEC 2024 CONVENTION AND EXPO
The Department of Special Education Needs Services (SENS) has marked a significant milestone in its journey towards enhancing services for exceptional learners through its participation in the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) 2024 Convention and Expo, held in San Antonio, Texas March 12th to 16th 2024. This event, renowned for its dedication to advancing the field of special education, provided a platform for our team to immerse themselves in a wealth of knowledge and resources.
The convention, with a rich history of fostering collaboration and innovation, focused on sensitizing attendees to global initiatives in special education. Our team, consisting of four professionals from the Department of Special Education Needs Services; Mrs. Paulette Simmons – Special Education Teacher at SNAP Center, Jamiliyah Jordan – Speech and Language Pathologist, Christina Joseph – Behavioural Analyst, Lashaunda Skippings – Coordinator of Assessments and one representative from the Department of Education, Mrs. Faaida James – Special Education Officer benefited immensely from four days of information-packed workshops, networking opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge assistive technologies and programs.
CEC 2024 Convention and Expo has been a driving force in shaping the landscape of special education. Each year, it gathers professionals, researchers, and advocates to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions to support individuals with exceptional needs.
Lashaunda Skippings, Coordinator of Assessments, and a part of the team, shared her thoughts on the convention, stating, " The CEC 2024 Convention exceeded my anticipations. It was incredibly enlightening and stimulated thoughtful reflection. I am grateful for the openness of presenters who shared their exemplary practices in Special Education, that address the needs of students with disabilities globally.”
Dr. Anya Malcolm, Director of Special Education Needs Services, expressed her excitement about the department's progress, stating, "The thrill that fills the department and the parents as initiatives in Special Education Needs falls into place remarkably is tangible. We are dedicated to utilizing the knowledge and experiences gained from events like CEC 2024 to further enhance our services and support for exceptional learners."
Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Social Services, expressed her commendation for the Department of Special Education Needs Services, stating, "I commend the Department of Special Education Needs Services for their unwavering dedication and proactive stance in participating in the CEC 2024 Convention and Expo. The Ministry acknowledges the pivotal role of such initiatives in elevating the standards of special education services and fostering the comprehensive development of exceptional learners nationwide."
The Department of Special Education Needs Services remains committed to its mission of providing comprehensive and inclusive support to individuals with special needs. Through continuous learning, collaboration, and innovation, we strive to create a nurturing environment where every exceptional learner can thrive.
For more information about the Department of Special Education Needs Services and its initiatives, please contact sens@gov.tc
CUSTOMER AND GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES (CGIS) OPENS OFFICE IN PROVIDENCIALES
The Customer & Government Information Services (CGIS) Department is pleased to announce the opening of its sub-branch in Providenciales. The office which will be located at the George Brown Post Office, Airport Road, Providenciales will be operational effective March 25th 2024.
This expansion is part of the department’s ongoing commitment to better serve the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, enhance its operations and will focus on the digital and printing needs of the Public Service.
Chief Government Printer Ms. Anika Talbot explained that “the establishment of this sub-branch is the result of careful planning and consideration. We have identified the growing demand for printing services within government departments in Providenciales and we believe that having a dedicated team and office on the ground will enable us to better understand and cater to the unique needs of the Government.”
Ms. Talbot further added “as we embark on this new chapter, we would like to express our gratitude to the Ministry of Home Affairs for expanding and steering the department’s vision and to the newly established Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities, for accepting the baton and supporting the vision to completion.”
With this strategic move, CGIS aims to strengthen its presence in providing a wider range of digital and printing services to government departments. Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities, Mrs. Bridgette Newman stated “we remain committed to delivering exceptional products and services to the Public Service and are excited about the possibilities that this expansion will bring to the Turks and Caicos Islands Government.”
Congratulating the CGIS department, the Minister for Public Safety and Utilities Honourable Kyle Knowles commented “I look forward to what the CGIS department will achieve through its expansion and presence in Providenciales as we strive to meet the digital and printing needs of the government in an ever-evolving digital world.”
The CGIS team appreciates your ongoing support and looks forward to serving you from its new location in Providenciales.
Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the department at cgis@gov.tc and/or 338-3371.
WATER UNDERTAKING OBSERVES WORLD WATER DAY
The Water Undertaking department joins the global community in commemorating World Water Day 2024. World Water Day is a United Nations observance held annually on 22 March to inspire action to tackle the global water crisis. It serves as an important reminder of the critical importance of water and the urgent need to ensure its availability and sustainable management for all.
This year's theme, "Water for Peace" is a call to action, urging individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to collaborate and take concrete steps towards addressing the challenges faced in water management and conservation.
Water is not merely a resource; it is a fundamental human right essential for life and dignity. It is arguably the most important resource on Earth and the supply of water is an essential service that we rely on daily.
Yet, millions around the globe continue to grapple with water scarcity, pollution, and inadequate access to clean water facilities. These challenges disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, exacerbating poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.
While this is not the reality of the Turks and Caicos Islands it should not be taken for granted that water will always be readily available. The Water Undertaking department therefore implores all water users to be more conservative and sustainable in their use and consumption of water.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities, the department will be sharing helpful tips on water conservation, water management and sustainability practices to encourage better usage and monitoring of water.
In commemorating World Water Day, let us renew our collective resolve to prioritize water conservation, protect water ecosystems, and empower each other to sustainably manage this precious resource. Together, we can build and preserve access to safe and clean water, contributing to more sustainable societies.
Apple sued by Biden administration in landmark case over iPhone monopoly
The Biden administration sued Apple on Thursday, alleging the tech giant created a monopoly in the smartphone market by blocking competitors from accessing hardware and software features of the iPhone.
The lawsuit, filed by the Department of Justice in federal court in New Jersey, is the latest in a series of efforts by the Biden administration to rein in what it argues is unlawful anticompetitive behavior by some of the nation’s largest tech companies.
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced during a midday press conference Thursday a new anti-trust lawsuit from the Department of Justice against tech mega-giant Apple. The DOJ filing alleges that the company violated antitrust laws to maintain its monopoly with smartphones including deliberately slowing or limiting functionality on third-party features like outside applications or messaging with users on other devices including Androids, creating a "perceived" inferiority of any service outside the Apple ecosystem:
Garland added, 'We all share concerns. There are more than a million people in Rafah, many of whom were displaced from other parts of Gaza. A major ground operation would mean more civilian deaths and it would worsen the humanitarian crisis.'
Sixteen state and district attorneys general joined the DOJ in bringing the case.
TCI NATIONAL GENDER EQUALITY POLICY CONSULTATIVE PROCESS MARCH 25 – 28 2024
The Department of Gender Affairs within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, Energy and Utilities, and Tele. Communication Commission, in partnership with the UN Women Multi-Country Office Caribbean, will host the final round of consultations on developing a National Gender Equality Policy.
The initial round of consultations was held in 2022, and stakeholders from a wide range of state, private sector, and civil society entities in the Turks and Caicos Islands were engaged.
Input from these sectors is critical to the development of such a policy because of the wide-ranging concerns, issues, and realities that must be confronted in the drive toward an equitable society. The policy's reach encompasses marshaling and distributing resources, enacting legislation, allocating responsibilities, and engaging in capacity building.
The core function of gender equality policy is to correct the systems, structures, habits, and culture that create gender inequalities.
Hence, there is a need for a vast amount of data and the engagement of a broad swathe of society in developing it. The wider Community benefits from the development of the policy as it will serve as an instrument to enhance many facets of everyday life that impact men, women, boys, and girls and guarantee the right to advance equally regardless of traditional factors that have impeded the development of many.
During this round of consultations, the goals of completing the data collection process and giving shape to the nature of our home-grown policy and the action plan that will guide its implementation will be realized. The entities involved in contributing to the formulation will be engaged in consultation from Monday, March 25th, to Thursday, March 28th.
The department looks forward to and welcomes the invaluable support from all sectors from the Public and Private spheres throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CARIBBEAN MARITIME FOUNDATION (ACMF)
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat wishes to advise the Member States and Associate Members that it has received a communication from the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF) informing of scholarship and grant opportunities for Caribbean nationals who are aspiring maritime and shipping professionals, pursuing studies at the following universities –
The Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) in Jamaica;
The University of Trinidad and Tobago;
The LJM Maritime Academy in The Bahamas;
MatPal Marine Institute in Guyana; and
Atlantic Alliance Off-Shore Marine Training Institute in Guyana.
Interested individuals can explore scholarship and grant opportunities and complete applications using ACMF’s easy-to-use digital platform at https://apply.acmfdn.org/. This site, which accepts applications from high school and tertiary level students, is open from 1 January with a deadline date of Tuesday, 30 April 2024 for all applications to be submitted.
The ACMF is a United States non-profit, tax-exempt organization. It is the only entity solely dedicated to sponsoring academic scholarships and grants to aspiring Caribbean and CARICOM maritime professionals and seafarers. To date, ACMF has funded full tuition and grants for over two hundred (200) students in nine (9) Caribbean countries. The organization has produced scholars and grantees hailing from The Bahamas, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and The Dominican Republic.
Member States and Associate Members are advised to encourage Caribbean nationals pursuing studies in the maritime and shipping industries to explore these scholarship opportunities. They are also reminded that the closing date is imminent.