RTC Director

Response from former Premier Mike Misick to Governor Ric Todd’s Press Release

Former Premier Michael Misick responds to HE Governor in the release below:

In response to the dictator Governor Ric Todd questioning my right to question his morality, I wish to say that I am a 46-year-old Turks and Caicos Islander born and bred in North Caicos. I have served my country for more than 20 years of my life with distinction.

I am proud of what I, along with my colleagues and Progressive National Party, (PNP) have accomplished while in government. When we came to office, the GDP of the island was less than 200 million dollars.

When I left office it was over 750 million dollars. When we came to office, tourist arrivals were around 200 thousand people per year; now it is over 1 million.

We invested tens of millions of dollars in infrastructure, brand new roads in North and Middle Caicos, the Causeway, roads in South Caicos, Providenciales and Grand Turk.

We built schools, parks a national stadium, the Gus Lightbourne auditorium, Horse Stable Beach Park, Built the Children's Park in the Bight, Community Centers in Providenciales and South Caicos, built two brand new world-class hospitals in Providenciales and Grand Turk, just to name a few of the infrastructure projects.

We spent tens of millions of dollars on scholarships ensuring that every Turks and Caicos Islander that wanted a scholarship got one. We also spent tens of millions of dollars on health care making sure no Turks and Caicos Islander died because they could not afford health care.

We attracted over 2 billion dollars in inward investments, with everyone working and Turks and Caicos Islanders becoming successful business people.

This brings me to why we are where we are. Yes, we gave out thousands of acres of land to Turks and Caicos Islanders as part of our policy of empowering them and making Turks and Caicos Islanders first. I will never apologise for that and will never depart in my personal quest to see Turks and Caicos Islanders first in our country and to see an independent Turks and Caicos Islands.

This is why there was a Commission of Inquiry, because a few white expatriates disliked the policy of making Turks and Caicos Islanders rich. As long as we were poor and had to work for them, there was never a problem. As long as they were the ones getting the Crown land and selling it, this was good business, but as soon as we gave the land to the Turks and Caicos Islands people it was seen as corruption.

This is why we are being prosecuted. As long as we want to remain colonial salves it was ok, but when we begin seeking independence we were call corrupt and put in our place. So Governor Todd, your attempt to change history will not work. The people of the Turks and Caicos Islands know me and love me and they know what I and the PNP have done for these Islands. Not one day have I ever disrespected any of them while I was leader.So you can never justify your arrogance and racist approach by questioning my morals.

On the matter of SIPT, it is clear that the justice system in the Turks and Caicos Islands has turned into a puppet show with judges making decisions to please the dictator that appointed them. It is clear that me, none of the other accused or charged or any other black persons can ever get a fair trial. If I or any one has done anything wrong why did you and the British government have to change the whole legal system including abolishing our right to jury trial, changing the evidence laws and hearsay laws just to name a few. Why is SIPT illegally gathering information and harassing law abiding citizens if it is so clear that we have done wrong.

And how can there be a fair trial when you are the executive, you are the legislature, and you also appoint the judges and you have already pronounced that we are all guilty. Furthermore, how come you know and I don’t, that the SIPT has questions that they want to ask me? And how come you are assuming that I am not going to return home to clear my name?

You and the British government have made a mockery of the Turks and Caicos Islands as we once knew it by your interference in every aspect of government. The British pride themselves with having a justice system with a government that is based on separation of powers. You and the British government have ruined our economy and three years after your occupation you are still blaming me. If it was an elected government, they would have to take responsibility for their tenure in office and would be looking to hold elections soon based on their record. It is high time that you and the British government take responsibility for your actions over the last three years and stop blaming me and anyone else you can blame.

In conclusion, I renew my call for you to resign. You are the leader of the country now and all of the people have lost respect and faith in you. That is why they say the only time you tell the truth is when your mouth is closed. Since it obvious that you have no decency, I again call on the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Rt. Hon William Hague to recall you immediately and set a date for elections so that the Turks and Caicos people can vote for a government of their own choosing. I also call for a referendum on the future relationship of the Turks and Caicos Islands people with Britain. That is the only way to determine whether the people want to remain a British Colony.

by RTC Director

HE GOVERNOR RESPONDS TO MICHAEL MISICK

Responding to Mr Michael Misick’s press statement earlier today, His Excellency Ric Todd said:

“The hypocrisy of Mr Michael Misick in calling into question the morality of anyone clearly knows no bounds. His alleged disrespect, and that of his administration, for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands were laid bare in the Commission of Inquiry Report of 2009. To be clear, this listed in tremendous detail the probability of systemic corruption in the Government and legislature of the TCI. These matters are now the subject of a criminal investigation by the SIPT. Mr Misick should return to these islands as soon as possible to face the questions that the SIPT has for him.

“With regard to my participation in yesterday’s Expressions show, I have apologised for my use of a certain word. In stating this word I believed at the time that I was quoting back at my questioner what they had said to me, when they verbally attacked me, accusing me of having talked “...a crock”. In using this phrase I unfortunately used the full phrase that the caller clearly meant. I apologised then and I apologise again now for any offence caused. It was a genuine and human mistake.”

The facts of Governor Todd’s appearance on Expressions:

• His Excellency Governor Ric Todd took part in the Radio Turks and Caicos’ Expressions talk show yesterday.
• During this he spent 60 minutes engaging in discussion with host Robert Hall, and around 90 minutes answering listener’s calls and texts.
• Despite the lack of respect shown to The Governor by some callers, he was repeatedly called a liar and a dictator, he remained calm throughout.
• One caller, from Mr Misick’s former party, began his remarks by saying that the Governor was talking “...a crock”.
• The Governor listened patiently to these remarks. He responded calmly and began quoting back to the caller what he thought he had heard them say, stating that he had not talked a “... crock of s***”.
• His error was recognised straightaway and he apologised immediately to Robert Hall and his listeners.

by RTC Director

Press Statement by Former Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands Michael E. Misick

I was appalled to listen to the behavior of the Turks and Caicos Dictator (Governor) Ric Todd yesterday on radio Turks and Caicos.

His attitude and behavior is indicative of the lack of respect that he and the British government have for the people of the Turks and Caicos people and the country as a whole. It is the first time in our history that the leader of the country has cursed at a caller to a talk-show on national radio.

A simple apology is not enough. He has disrespected the children that might have been listening,  and he has disrespected the Christians that might have been listening. We are a Christian country and such behavior should not be allowed or condoned by anyone especially the leader of the country who has absolute power. The Governor should know that with great power comes an even greater responsibility. If he was in England as a minister or a public servant and had behaved in such a despicable manner on national radio or television, he would have had to resign.

This recent behavior is consistent with an arrogant and heavy handed approach from this colonial ruler who continues to demonstrate scant respect for residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands. He is the sole power in the country, he is the executive, he makes the laws and he appoints the judges.

It is of great concern that Governor Ric Todd at recent public meeting in Providenciales, has already passed his verdict and sent a not so subtle instruction to the judiciary that all of the accused in the bogus, multi-million-dollar politically-motivated corruption investigation case are guilty and should be punished. For a Governor to openly declare guilt even before a trial has taken place is nothing more than an abuse of power, corruption of the judicial process, and a monumental travesty of justice.

What is even more disturbing is his attempt to steal $10 million dollars of the people’s money from the National Insurance Board. There can be doubt that Governor Ric Todd is practicing cronyism by making sure all of his white friends reap the benefits and rape the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is clear to all, including the expatriates, that this is what his mission is about. To add insult to injury, he has hired an openly-gay man who lives with his male lover, to be Chief Executive of our country. The Governor obviously has no respect for the Christian values that have long been the bedrock of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enough is enough.

There seems to be no end to the madness of Governor Ric Todd and to pain and suffering that he intends to inflict upon the people of this country. Clearly it is time to end this repressive British occupation and have elections so that we as a people can once again govern our self and set our path towards independence

The people of the Turks and Caicos Islands including the Chamber of Commerce, the Church, the elderly, Civil Servants, the young people, expatriates, investors, and even some of his own British people are saying in one voice that they have no respect for, or confidence in, Governor Ric Todd. And so, I call on him to resign immediately. If he does not do so, I call on the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the Rt.Hon William Hague to have him recalled in the interest of the Turks and Caicos Islands. 

Michael E. Misick
Former Premiere of the Turks and Caicos Islands
March 15, 2012

by RTC Director

CRIME REPORT FROM THE TCI

CRIME continues to fall in TCI, according to figures released today.

Between the mornings of Wednesday and Thursday, March 15 and 16, there were no reported incidents in the islands of Provo, North Caicos or Middle Caicos.

It’s the second time in less than two weeks that islanders have enjoyed a crime-free 24 hours.

Deputy Commissioner, Brad Sullivan, said: “These figures again underline the excellent work being done by our officers out there in the community.

“We are determined in our efforts to decrease crime and through proactive patrol strategies, timely investigations, increased visibility and stronger interaction with our communities, we are beginning to see positive results.

“But we will not become complacent and will continue to step up our patrols in all areas to ensure that law-abiding residents and visitors can live, work and relax in a safe environment.”

IN GRAND TURK

A LARGE role of wire, valued at more than $1,600, was stolen following after intruders entered the yard at Building Materials in Grand Turk.

The culprits gained entry by cutting a padlock from a steel gate.

Anyone with information about the incident or who is offered the wire for sale is asked to call the police on 911 or Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477. Tips can also be left in English, French or Spanish at www.crimestoppers.tc or by becoming a friend of Crimestoppers TCI on Facebook.

by RTC Director

TCI RED CROSS HIGH TEA AND FASHION SHOW AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS

The Turks & Caicos Islands Red Cross hosted a fabulous High Tea and Fashion Show in Grand Turk over the weekend. This ‘island chic’ affair took place at The Atrium (courtyard) located at The Osprey Hotel on Pond Street - Saturday, March 10^th, 2012.

While there, guests enjoyed wonderful performances by vocalist Renate Hinds, The New Testament Church Fabulous Boys who did a terrific dance routine, and Officer Dexter Landy, who not only performed solos on his saxophone, but also provided the event with fantastic DJ music.

The highlight of the High Tea was the fashion show. Clothing was provided the TCI Red Cross Thrift Shop and Kaylee’s Boutique, situated at the Grand Turk Inn. Attendees gave rousing rounds of applause as the models glided down the grand staircase, and made their way through the gorgeously decorated tables with guests immaculately dressed for the day’s event.

The High Tea, an en early evening of pure sophistication and civility, combined with TCI Red Cross’ usual elegance and excellence in service – saw persons dining on an assortment of scrumptious cakes, cookies, cupcakes, pies, turnovers, scones, other delectable baked goods and specialty treats; washing it all down with exquisite teas and a variety of beverages.

To cap things off, Spa Turqoise put on a ‘dollar raffle’ – where in which the prize was a spa treatment valued at $100.00 – that was won by Anna-Mae Williams. 109 persons participated, raising $109.00, with all proceeds from the raffle being donated to the Red Cross. What is more, Mrs Ann Dempsey won the second raffle, a gorgeous mirror valued at $150.00.

Courtney Robinson, TCI Red Cross Director said: “The TCI Red Cross is thankful to all that ventured out to support this fundraising initiative. The High Tea & Fashion Show was a successful one - owing our team of dedicated volunteers, the attendees who provided their custom, and those that assisted with seeing to its success.”

“We would like to express a profound thank you to The Osprey Beach Hotel, Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa, Grand Turk Methodist Church, Grand Turk Inn, Spa Turqoise, Turks & Caicos Islands Business College, HJRH high school home economics students and teachers, the models, performers, Mrs Sandy Williams, and Mrs Florence Bennett, our mistress of ceremony. We trust that the public supports all events that the TCI Red Cross host, as we strive to provide humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

by RTC Director

FortisTCI Limited Gears Up For Annual Spring Fun Walk & Run

FortisTCI Ltd. is once again eager about bringing together the Turks and Caicos Islands community for a healthy experience at this year’s 4th Annual Spring Fun Walk & Run.

The event slated for Saturday March 31, 2012 will begin promptly at 6am with a new route leading off from the main offices on Leeward Highway.

CEO Eddinton Powell said “We encourage all of our employees to live healthy balanced lifestyles that comprise of a nutritious diet and regular exercise.” Powell continued by stating, “This occasion not only allows FortisTCI to extend that encouragement beyond our staff, but it also promotes family and friendship though a motivating morning exercise.”

Each year those registered are provided with an event T-shirt and entered into a raffle for the grand prize. Sticking with the theme of healthy living, this year’s grand prize winner will walk away with their very own Wii Fit game console to continue daily workouts at home. Other prizes will be presented to the first male, female and FortisTCI employee to complete the route and the group with the most participants. There will be lots of other giveaways as well and hot breakfast served at the finish line.

FortisTCI has made the event free to the public, however those interested in taking part are asked to register early to ensure availability of T-shirts.

by RTC Director

Chairman’s Opening Remarks at Consultative Forum Meeting – March 13, 2012

Thank you pastor Archbold for those encouraging words of prayer. Lord knows we need them now more than ever.

It is in this spirit that I feel obliged to make a brief comment on the events of last weekend before turning to the items on our agenda today.

In his critical report, Sir Robin Auld cited a number of systemic weaknesses as just cause for the suspension of our constitution. One wonders therefore what he would make of the systemic weakness that led to firefighters going on a wildcat strike and forcing the closure of our airports.

This weakness of course is a failure of this interim administration to properly communicate not just with the public but even with civil servants. And it has become epidemic and, in this case, very costly.

Frankly, I cannot blame the firefighters for having so little trust in this administration duly heeding their concerns when this administration has demonstrated time and again its unwillingness to heed the informed concerns of members of this body.  But I fear for the future governance of our county if civil servants become convinced that going on strike is the only way to negotiate effectively with the government.

Thank God this strike was resolved relatively quickly. However, the exact cost is in the region of $5M. And this does not take into account the reputational damage done by having stranded tourists vent their understandable frustrations in viral messages that went around the world in an instant.

Which brings me to this earnest plea:

My fellow citizens, no matter our grievances with our British overseers or how much we sympathize with the firefighters, it behooves us to be ever mindful that any damage done to our tourism product, which is the lifeblood of our economy, hurts only us. For despite clear signs of their political insensitivity and administrative incompetence, our British overseers will always get paid.

We should also be mindful of those in our midst who seem to believe that leadership amounts to little more than inciting people to engage in all manner of civil disobedience and unrest without regard for the consequences.

Yet, notwithstanding setbacks, disappointments and distractions, I pray for God’s guidance upon those of us who remain committed to constructive engagement with the British.

For only this approach will foster a relationship between the TCI and UK that is truly based on mutual consideration, mutual cooperation … and mutual respect; more importantly, only this approach will enable us to build a country that can govern itself, protect itself and sustain itself.  And as unbelievable as it may seem to many of you, I believe there are some British folks who want this too.

by RTC Director

A Man drowns this week in TCI

POLICE have identified a man who is believed to have drowned in Provo, yesterday.

Benston Williams, aged 43, was discovered floating in a swimming pool at Clareece Been Apartments, Juba Sound at about 4.15pm.

He was treated at the scene by paramedics and then rushed to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre by ambulance where he pronounced dead 5.10pm.

Officers have now begun an investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile the RTCI Police wishes to extend its condolences to Mr William’s family and friends.

by RTC Director

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

There have recently been some suspected cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) diagnosed in a few children on Providenciales.

Hand, foot and mouth disease should not to be confused with foot and mouth disease which affects and is transmitted between animals. It is a mild viral illness, caused most commonly by Coxsackie virus or enterovirus. It is contagious (easily passed from one person to the other) and most often occurs in infants and children but can also occasionally occur in adults and adolescents.

Its symptoms include:

• Painful sores within the mouth
• Rashes on the hands and feet which may be associated with vesicles (blisters)
• Fever
• Headache
• Feeling generally unwell or irritable
• Coryza (runny nose) and sore throat

Some or all of these symptoms may be present.

HFMD is mostly a mild and self-limiting illness lasting for a few days, however there are more severe forms of the disease which are associated with neurological complications as a result of meningitis (associated with fever, headache, neck stiffness) and encephalitis (resulting in paralysis) which are uncommon.

HFMD is transmitted by direct contact with infected individuals: nasal secretions, saliva, stool and droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. HFMD is commonest in child care settings due to frequent contact with soiled diapers and children putting their hands in their mouths after being in contact with infected an individual’s secretions. Spread is from person to person contact.

There is no specific treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease. Symptom control such as the use of paracetamol for fever and pain relief is often all that is necessary. In some cases HFMD can cause a sore mouth and throat which makes it difficult to swallow. It is therefore important to maintain fluid intake to avoid dehydration. If oral fluids are not tolerated and the infected individual becomes dehydrated, admission to hospital may be required for intravenous fluids to be administered. Symptoms usually resolve within ten days.

Transmission of HFMD can be prevented by:

• Practicing good hygiene such as washing your hands frequently. This is especially important after using the toilet, when changing diapers and when preparing and eating food. Soap and water are all that will be necessary, but use of alcohol gel is also effective when soap and water are not available
• Cleaning areas and surfaces which are frequently touched, firstly with soap and water and then with diluted bleach
• Teaching children about proper hygiene and not putting their hands or other objects in their mouths
• Persons covering their nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
• Those who have been diagnosed with HFMD remaining at home until all of their symptoms have resolved and limiting their contact with other people until they are well

The Ministry Of Health and Human Services has increased surveillance activities at health care facilities and schools in collaboration with the Environmental Health Department and will continue to monitor the situation.

Please report to your healthcare provider if you suspect that you or your child has hand-foot-and-mouth disease.

by RTC Director