Weekend Forecast for TCI
GENERAL SITUATION: A ridge of high pressure will keep the islands under generally stable conditions today, with light to moderate winds prevailing. Moisture and some upper-level support nearby will keep a chance of a few isolated showers later today.
WEATHER: Partly sunny with isolated showers possible this afternoon. Mostly fair tonight.
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 to 15 knots
SEAS: 2 to 4 feet, building up to 5 feet offshore
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 86°F 30°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 75°F 24°C
SUNSET: 05:04 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 02:03 PM (2.3 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 08:24 PM (1.0 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: The cold front is expected to move into the Central Bahamas later tonight and stall on Saturday. The front will gradually weaken and dissipate by Sunday; however, upper-level forcing and lingering moisture will keep shower and thunderstorm activity in the forecast over the weekend.
SATURDAY: A low (20 to 30 percent) chance of widely scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a high near 84°F (29°C).
SATURDAY NIGHT: A low (20 to 30 percent) chance of widely scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75°F (24°C). New total rainfall accumulation between a quarter of an inch to a half an inch.
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 to 20 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank & sheltered areas – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic – 3 to 6 feet
SUNRISE: 06:09 AM
SUNSET: 05:04 PM
HIGH TIDE: 02:32 AM (2.3 FT) 03:01 PM (2.3 FT)
LOW TIDE: 08:48 AM (1.0 FT) 09:19 PM (0.7 FT)
SUNDAY: A medium (40 to 60 percent) chance of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a high near 81°F (27°C). A few thunderstorms could be strong at times, with a marginal to slight risk of becoming severe.
SUNDAY NIGHT: A medium (40 to 50 percent) chance of scattered showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75°F (24°C). New total rainfall accumulation of about half an inch.
ADVISORY: A Small Craft Advisory will come into effect.
WINDS: Easterly at 10 to 20 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank & sheltered areas – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic – 3 to 5 feet, building up to 7 feet offshore
SUNRISE: 06:10 AM
SUNSET: 05:04 PM
HIGH TIDE: 03:39 AM (2.6 FT) 04:01 PM (2.3 FT)
LOW TIDE: 10:01 AM (1.0 FT) 10:14 PM (0.7 FT)
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.
The North Atlantic Hurricane Season will be coming to an end on Sunday, November 30th, 2025.
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
New Service Charge Formula Released
The Ministry of Immigration and Border Services is pleased to announce the implementation of a new Service Charge Formula for organisations that collect service charge within their establishments across the Turks and Caicos Islands under the Service Charge Act. The new formula is design to ensure fair and equitable distribution of service charge and to strengthen the Act for effective compliance. The new formula is effective 1st October 2025.
Total service charge collected to be distributed as follows:
- Each employee must receive a share of the total service charge collected, calculated by dividing the total amount collected by the total hours worked by all employees, then multiplying that result by the number of hours worked by the individual employee. (See example below).
- Employees on fixed/set salaries will be paid no more than 44 hours per workweek in their calculation of payable service charge. Example Senior Supervisors, Middle Managers, and above. Distribution Example:Establishment A have collected $100 for the MonthEmployee 1 worked 25 HoursEmployee 2 worked 35 HoursEmployee 3 worked 40 HoursService Charge Payable to each employee:Employee 1 - $100 X (25 hours/ (25+35+40) hours) = $25Employee 2 - $100 X (35 hours/ (25+35+40) hours) = $35Employee 3 - $100 X (40 hours/ (25+35+40) hours) = $40
New features to accompany the new formula are:
- Audit of Service Charge by TCIG.
- The requirement that the troncmaster provision has been implemented and the need to ensure that the role is being carried out.
- Resorts and businesses are to share their Service Charge Reports with the Employment Services Department/ Commissioner of Labour.
In supporting the release of the Service Charge Formula, Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border services with responsibilities for Regional, ECLAC and CARICOM Affairs, the Honourable Jamell Robinson shared:
“The release of the service charge formula marks a significant step forward in ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in how service charges are distributed among workers. This formula reflects our commitment to protecting the rights of employees while supporting sustainable practices within the hospitality and service sectors.
It is the result of extensive consultation with workers, employers, and industry stakeholders, and we believe it strikes a fair balance for all parties. With this formula in place, we aim to create a more predictable and equitable environment, where workers are justly compensated for their contributions and businesses are guided by clear, consistent standards.”
The industry is asked to take note of Section 14(2) of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Restaurant Service Charge Act which refers to offences under this ACT.
National Security Council Issues Post Meeting Statement
Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Premier, Hon. Charles Washington Misick OBE co-chaired a meeting of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) National Security Council (NSC) on Thursday, 13th November, 2025, at the Office of the Governor, Providenciales.
In attendance, Her Excellency the Deputy Governor, the Hon. Deputy Premier and Min of Immigration and Border Services, the Hon. Min of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, the Hon. Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police. Also in attendance, the National Security Advisor, the Permanent Secretary for National Security, the Commanding Officer of the Regiment, the Director General of the Border Force and the NSS Threat Lead. The Chief Engineer of the Marine Unit attended as an invited presenter.
Members were briefed:
- By the PS National Security and the Commissioner of Police on the status of maritime security assets being acquired through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) grant funding, advising that the primary equipment has been acquired. Also, on the progress of the Joint Maritime Security Centre (JMSC) Project, advising of measures being undertaken to ensure completion of implementation requirements.
- By the Commanding Officer of the Regiment and the Chief Engineer of the Marine Unit on the potential uplift to maritime capabilities, including proposals relating to a deep-water platform.
- By the National Security Advisor on the proposal to enhance Maritime Domain Awareness through Space Based Systems.
- By the members of the Unified Command on joint operations, areas of cooperation and operational plans for the approaching festive season.
- On the after-action review of multi-agency disaster management arrangements and next steps to ensure business continuity plans and enhanced preparedness.
Follow up questions are welcomed and can be directed to nationalsecurity@gov.tc.
Accused Charged
Serious Crime Unit detectives today charged 27-year-old KENDALL SARGENT of Blue Hills, Providenciales, with Possession of Controlled Drugs with Intent to Supply.
The charge RTC understands stems from a targeted operation during which officers recovered suspected cannabis packaged in bags.
Following further investigations, the accused was charged and subsequently granted bail in the sum of $5000.
SARGENT is expected to appear before a Magistrate on 25th November,2025.
TCI Post Cabinet Update
Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 22nd meeting of the Cabinet held on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025 at the Office of the Premier, Hon. Hilly Ewing Building, Leeward Highway, Providenciales.
All members were present.
In this meeting Cabinet:
- Received an introduction to the investors of the Vision Ridge Partners, that recently acquired FortisTCI from Fortis Inc.
- Received an update on the operationalization of a Credit Union for the Turks and Caicos Islands and the way forward.
- Received an update on the Turks and Caicos Islands Census Activities and Poverty Assessment.
- Approved the Supplementary Appropriation Bill No. 1 FY 25/26.
- Approved the reappointment of committee members for the Mortgage Corporation for a period of 12 months:
- Mr. Dennis Swann, Chairman
- Representative from the Attorney General’s Chambers
- Mr. Chris Stokes, Private Sector Representative
- Mr. Robert Cox, Mortgage Corporation of the Bahamas
- Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance or her representative
- Permanent Secretary, National Land Secretariat
- Ms. Claudia Burnside, Secretary
- Approved a Rental Lease Agreement extension for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government London Office for a period of six (6) months.
- Approved a Development Agreement for the Bay Road Development.
- Approved an Interim Data Management Policy for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government.
- Approved the implementation of the Alcohol and Tobacco Import Revenue License Fee Structure.
- Approved the submission of draft regulations to amend the Immigration (Amendment) Regulations 2025 Fee Schedule to create a special category for accredited Schools and Trade Schools operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Approved the Draft Immigration (Work Permit Fees Exemption) Regulations 2025 for further publication in the Gazette.
- Received an update on the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIS) on the Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) consultancy projects and granted approval to publish and conduct public consultations.
- Approved amendments to the Post Office Offences Act for submission to Parliament.
- Approved amendments to the Telecommunications (Interconnection and Access to Telecommunications Facilities) (Amendment) Regulation 2025.
- Received an update on the progress of a social development case.
- Approved a Rental Lease Agreement for the rental of building 60715/367, Leeward Highway, Providenciales for the location of the Planning Department, and the relocation of the Estate Management and Housing departments, Providenciales.
- Approved the Strategic Master Plan for the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority.
- Approved the funding for advancing from Tier 3 to Tier 2 level with the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).
- Received an update on the partnership between the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture and WidomCRM to introduce the “Sustainable Virtual Stock Market Game and Eagle Eye” to 1000 students in secondary schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Approved the reappointment of Dr. Candace Williams as the position of President of the Turks and Caicos Community College for a period of 3 years, commencing October 1st 2025.
- Approved the appointment/re-appointment of Members to the Cadet Advisory Committee for a period of one (1) year commencing September 1st 2025.
- Act. Commandant, Nimrol Beckles, Existing Member
- Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Darron Williams, Existing Member
- Ms. A’Janae Robinson, New Member
- Ms. Jatavia Howell, Director, Youth Department, New Member
- Mr. Reinwald Lewis, Education Officer, Existing Member
- Major Adrain Parker, New Member
- Permanent Secretary of Youth or his designate
- Ms. Vanesha Williams, Secretary
Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.
TCI EXPENDITURE COMMITTEE REVIEWS HALF YEAR REPORT, EMPHASIZES FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY
The TCI Expenditure Committee convened to review the Half Year Report for the period of April 1 to September 30, 2025, presented to Parliament by the Hon. Premier and Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Investment, and Trade on November 6, 2025.
This committee, comprised of elected parliamentarians, is dedicated to scrutinizing government spending to ensure financial accountability and effective use of taxpayer funds.
Committee Membership:
- Hon. Tamell L. Seymour – Chairman
- Hon. Randy Howell – Member
- Hon. Kimbule Skippings – Member
- Hon. Sharon Simons – Member
Chairman Hon. Tamell Seymour shared key insights from the committee's analysis, stating, “One of the key takeaways is scrutinizing the value for money and examining the government’s spending policy. We are analyzing the budget and comparing planned expenditures with actual spending, while also exploring new mechanisms for government revenue streams.
Our goal is to hold officials accountable for spending, ensuring that government priorities align with the expenditures of those responsible.”
Addressing concerns regarding underperformance highlighted in the Premier's speech, Chairman Seymour noted, “The underperformance is closely linked to our economy's reliance on tourism, particularly from the United States. Current events impacting travel have contributed to a slower recovery in tourism, affecting revenue performance. We recognize the need for a more sustainable economic model for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Looking ahead, Chairman Seymour outlined the committee's next steps: “We will engage with various departments to understand the challenges they face in delivering government initiatives and the funding constraints they encounter. Clarity is essential, as we need to identify the reasons behind any inability to implement programs effectively or reach target populations.”
The TCI Expenditure Committee remains committed to ensuring that taxpayer money is spent wisely and effectively, with significant work ahead to enhance financial accountability and transparency within government spending.
3RD ANNUAL SCHOOL CENSUS DAY
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture proudly celebrated the 3rd Annual School Census Day. Each year, October 31st marks the Ministry’s official deadline for all public and private schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands to submit their school-level data to the Policy and Planning Unit, ensuring timely reporting to UNESCO and CARICOM.
School Census Day also serves as a national moment to spotlight the importance of data awareness. In its inaugural year, the focus was on understanding the significance of educational data and its role in decision-making, policy development, and long-term sustainability. In year two, 11 private schools entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry as part of an initiative encouraging the use of OpenEMIS in exchange for Microsoft 365 licenses.
In its third year, the Ministry showcased the accomplishments across every sector including Heads of Departments, Principals, Teachers, and Students. The Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Honourable Rachel Taylor, commended the dedication demonstrated across the system and reinforced her charge to the Ministry:
“School Census Day is more than a reporting exercise, it is a powerful reminder that data is the backbone of effective education systems. This year’s theme, ‘Delving into Data Dynamics,’ encourages us to not only collect data, but to understand it, use it, and allow it to guide our strategies for national development. I am immensely proud of our team and all our partners who continue to champion data-driven leadership.”
Minister Taylor further applauded the collective efforts of educators and administrators:
“The achievements highlighted today reflect the commitment of our educators, school leaders, and support staff who work tirelessly to ensure that every child in the Turks and Caicos Islands receives quality education. I congratulate all the award recipients. Your dedication helps shape a system that prepares every resident with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to our society and economy.”
AWARD RECIPIENTS
Heads of Departments:
Mr. Mark Garland – Director of Education
Ms. Candice Williams – President/CEO, TCICC
Mr. Jarrette Forbes – TCI Sports Commission
Ms. Arielle Neely – National Internship and Apprenticeship Program
Dr. Anya Malcom – Special Education Needs Services
Mr. Cecil Graham – Library Services
Ms. Kecha Delusma-Chase – Library Services
Ms. Odessa Forbes – Department of Culture
Education Officers:
Ms. Juliet Thelwell
Mr. David Bowen
Principals:
Ms. Robin Cox-Foster – Thelma Lightbourne Primary School
Ms. Eileen Elliot – Iris Stubbs Primary School
Ms. Rhoda Cox-Williams – Ona Glinton Primary School
Ms. Nyree Taylor-Williams – Eliza Simons Primary School
Ms. Jenna Mae Forbes – MILLS Institute
Ms. Darlene Lightbourne – BEST Institute
Ms. Sophia Garland – Enid Capron Primary School
Ms. Shanta Seymour – Clement Howell Primary School
Teachers:
Ms. Chervita Williams – Ona Glinton Primary School
Ms. Chrissy Williams – Eliza Simons Primary School
High School Essay Winners:
Jeffca Forbes – Clement Howell High School
Nathanael Marcelin – A. Louise Garland Thomas High School
Bre’Anna John – Raymond Gardiner High School
Excellence in Service Award:
Ms. Diandra Gray – Policy and Planning Unit
The Ministry extends special thanks to its sponsors and service providers: The Honourable Otis Morris, FLOW TCI, Island Printing, Olympic Construction Ltd., Peaches Restaurant, Unique Creations, Grand Turk Events, Sub-tronic Entertainment, and Mr. Salorne McDonald for their exceptional contributions.
The Policy and Planning Unit team under the leadership of Ms. Michelle Agard, Education Policy and Planning Manager, and Ms. Diandra Gray, Assistant Education Policy and Planning Officer, remains steadfast in its mission to lead data-driven initiatives that yield sustainable outcomes aligned with the needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
GENDER AFFAIRS TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY 2025
The Department of Gender Affairs, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs and Transportation, is set to celebrate International Men's Day on November 19, 2025, with the inspiring theme "Men and Boys Anchored in Strength, Driven by Purpose," which emphasizes the importance of resilience and direction in the lives of men and boys. To celebrate this significant occasion, the Department will organize a variety of events aimed at fostering empowerment and connection within the community.
Among the planned activities are Boys Empowerment Sessions, which will take place from November 18 to 20, targeting boys in grades seven through eleven across both private and public schools. These sessions are designed to facilitate mentorship, allowing experienced men to share their insights and wisdom with the younger generation. The goal is to inspire and equip the boys of the Turks and Caicos with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate their futures successfully, thereby contributing positively to society.
The Department encourages women throughout the Turks and Caicos to show their support for men by wearing a tie-on November 19, 2025. This gesture symbolizes solidarity and appreciation for the contributions of men in various spheres of life. Furthermore, individuals and organizations are invited to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of men in their homes, workplaces, and communities. By participating in these initiatives, everyone can play a role in recognizing and uplifting the men who strive to make a difference in the lives of others.
In addition to the official events hosted by the Department, individuals and organizations are encouraged to take part in this celebration by acknowledging the hard work and dedication of men in their own spheres and to express gratitude and recognition for the efforts of men who contribute positively to society. This collective acknowledgment not only uplifts the spirits of men but also reinforces the values of respect and appreciation within our communities.
Activities will culminate with a special Awards Ceremony on November 29, 2025, at the HJ Robinson Auditorium in Grand Turk, honoring men who have made significant contributions to society. The Department warmly invites everyone to participate and come out in support of this meaningful celebration.
Join us in recognizing the strength, purpose, and positive impact of men and boys across the Turks and Caicos Islands as we celebrate International Men's Day 2025.
Fillopino Charged with Sexual Assault in TCI
RONALD YAPPARCON LUNA, 44, of the Philippines was granted $15,000 bail when he appeared in court yesterday.
Luna is charged with THREE (3) counts of Sexual Assault and was granted bail in the sum of $5000 for each offence. The accused is expected to reappear in court on 20th November 2025.
The charges arose from a report made in December 2023, following which officers of the
Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit investigated and subsequently charged Luna.
TCI REMAINS COMMITTED TO ENHANCING AWARENESS OF ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
This year marks the 7th year that the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is joining the world to observe World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW). The theme for 2025, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), is “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future”.
WAAW, which is a global campaign observed annually between November 18th – 24th, aims to raise awareness and increase understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and to promote action across the world to fight the emergence and spread of drug-resistant pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. According to the WHO, AMR represents a major global threat across the human, animal, plant, food and environmental sectors. AMR occurs when pathogens no longer respond to antimicrobial agents. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics become ineffective and infections become difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
Notably, a quadripartite (four-party) group of organizations, namely the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), continue to join forces to fight against AMR which is one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity.
Likewise, the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHHS), TCI acknowledges the significance of WAAW and continues to lead a multiple stakeholder group to bring awareness to AMR to every resident in the TCI. The group of multiple stakeholders include the public, One Health stakeholders (healthcare providers, farmers, animal health professionals) and policymakers, who all play a critical role in reducing the further emergence and spread of AMR.
In support of WAAW 2025, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services stated that:
“The MoHHS and by extension the TCI joins the global community in observing World AMR Awareness Week 2025 by fully supporting the theme ‘Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future’. As such, I would like to remind all TCI residents that together we can all help to fight AMR. AMR is not tomorrow’s problem because drug-resistant infections are already here. Hence, any delay to act may cost lives. Therefore, the MoHHS understands the need to prioritise and invest in a national AMR action plan with defined roles and dedicated resources across all sectors.”
With a sustained collaboration across sectors to preserve the effectiveness of critical medicines known as antimicrobials to effectively reduce AMR, the MoHHS, by way of its draft national action plan, continues to work with a team of health professionals from various sectors to tackle this very serious problem and continues on the journey to:
- improve the awareness and understanding of AMR,
- strengthen knowledge through surveillance and research,
- reduce the incidence of infection and
- improve the use of antimicrobial medicines.
The following events are being planned for the week of November 18th – 24th:
- Continuing education for healthcare professionals on November 18, 2025.
- Setting up of information tables for public viewing at both TCI Hospitals/InterHealth Canada venues.
- Sharing of information on the MoHHS’ social media pages
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tci_health
- In-person AMR presentations will be conducted at a few locations.