CARICOM calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza
The 15-member regional integration grouping, CARICOM, Sunday expressed its “horror and concern” at what it described the as “ the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza that continues to worsen”.
In a brief statement, CARICOM said that it was also concerned at mounting death toll on the civilian population, including women and children, particularly in Gaza, but also in other areas of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
The grouping said it was calling “on all States to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law in all circumstances in accordance with Article 1 of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949”.
CARICOM said it also “condemns any disregard for international humanitarian law, human rights and the laws of war that have resulted in the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza and deprivation of access to basic necessities including medical care for the people of Palestine”.
It said it wanted to reaffirm “its conviction that a lasting, two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can be achieved only by peaceful means, based on the relevant United Nations Resolutions and in accordance with international law”.
Hamas gunmen launched an unprecedented assault on Israel from the Gaza Strip on 7 October, killing about 1,200 people and taking more than 200 hostages.
Israel has responded with air strikes on Gaza and has launched a ground offensive. More than 10,800 people have been killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
On Sunday, health officials and people trapped inside Gaza’s largest hospital rejected Israel’s claims that it was helping babies and others evacuate, saying fighting continued just outside the facility where incubators lay idle with no electricity and critical supplies were running out.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said its fighter jets attacked several Hezbollah targets within Lebanon on Sunday, in response to attacks carried out by the Lebanese militant group in northern Israel.
“IDF fighter jets of the Air Force attacked several targets of the Hezbollah terrorist organization in Lebanese territory, in response to the shooting that was carried out earlier today,” the IDF said in a statement.
In its statement, CARICOM said it was calling for “an immediate ceasefire in Gaza; the immediate release of all hostages and for their humane treatment at all times in compliance with international law”.
In addition, CARICOM wants “ all parties to immediately and fully comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law and the immediate, safe, unimpeded access for adequate, sustained humanitarian support throughout Gaza including food, water, medicines, medical care, fuel and electricity”.
Source-CMC
5 Solar PV Systems to be Installed in TCI
The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Government has signed a contract with Green Revolution for the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic systems under the EU Funded project titled, “Transitioning towards Green Energy in the Turks and Caicos Islands” RES-33/TCI project.
The Government continues to move towards a more sustainable and secure future with the execution of the Contract Agreement by HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam for and on behalf of the TCI government and the contractor, Green Revolution Ltd, for the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic systems.
This signing marks a pivotal moment in the Turks and Caicos Islands' transition towards a sustainable energy future.
The contract outlines the installation of five rooftop solar PV systems, with battery energy storage and accessories at the following critical public facilities:
Blue Hills Clinic, Providenciales
Wellness Centre in Grand Turk
Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos
Middle Caicos Clinic
South Caicos Clinic
These rooftop solar PV systems are specially designed for resilience to withstand fierce climatic conditions in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The battery energy storage technology of these systems will provide clean energy to the facilities during severe climatic conditions.
TCIG EUD Commissioner/TCI RESEMBID Project Coordinator, Engineer Delano R. Arthur expressed great enthusiasm about this initiative, saying, "As we harness the power of the sun through solar PV installations, we're not just capturing rays; we're capturing the future. Solar energy is not just about panels; it's about possibilities, sustainability, and a brighter, cleaner world for generations to come."
This pilot project demonstrates that collaborative work between the public and private sectors will yield a greener, safer, and more resilient Turks and Caicos. It is anticipated that these solar PV systems will serve as a model for sustainable energy projects in the built environment in TCI, setting a precedent for the future.
The “Transitioning towards Green Energy in the Turks and Caicos Islands” project falls within the development activities of the RESEMBID programme, which is 47-project programme funded by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France - the development cooperation agency of the Government of France.
This programme supports sustainable human development efforts in 12 Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) - Aruba, Anguilla, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Montserrat, Saba, Sint Eustatius, Saint Barthélemy, Sint Maarten and Turks and Caicos.
Exploring National Heritage
A Panel Discussion, held in observance of National Heritage Month 2023 on the topic of "Custodians of Culture: Exploring Responsibilities for the Promotion of a Nation's Heritage" captivated and inspired a diverse audience.
Hosted by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Premier, Lormeka Williams, the event featured a distinguished panel of experts who brought their unique perspectives and insights to the forefront, sparking meaningful discourse.
The panel discussion which took place at Genesis Next Media Studio, Providenciales was graced by a highly knowledgeable and accomplished set of panelists which included, Hon. Akierra Missick, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Bill 'Archie' Clare/ the man for all seasons, Nikita 'Chef Nik' Skippings, Brianna Walcott and Zhavago Jolly.
The panel discussion covered a wide range of topics including but not limited to, the roles and responsibilities of individuals, communities and governments in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, the challenges faced in this endeavor, and the innovative approaches being adopted to protect and celebrate a nation's rich culture.
Their insights and passion for cultural preservation left a lasting impression on all who viewed.
The event garnered considerable attention from a diverse audience, including academics, cultural enthusiasts, policymakers, and the general public.
In a world where cultural heritage faces various challenges, this panel discussion provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and solutions. It is clear that the promotion of cultural heritage is a shared responsibility, and this event has reinforced the importance of preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy.
Actors union SAG-AFTRA reaches tentative deal to end monthslong strike
SAG-AFTRA, the union representing approximately 160,000 actors, reached a tentative deal on Wednesday with major TV and movie studios -- a deal that could end a strike launched more than three months ago.
The agreement arrived a month after Hollywood writers ratified a deal to end a separate contract dispute with the studios. The actors' deal has yet to be ratified by a majority vote among union members.
The two professions shared key areas of concern, such as residual payments and artificial intelligence, but some of their demands differed.
The actors began striking on July 14, joining forces with the writers, who had been on strike since May 2. The writers' union, the Writers Guild of America, ended its strike on Sept. 27 after reaching a tentative agreement with studios. That agreement was ratified by WGA membership on Oct. 9.
The strikes saw production on film and television shows screech to a halt and the 2023 Emmys moved to January 2024.
PUBLIC FORECAST FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS
GENERAL SITUATION: HIGH PRESSURE BUILDING IN THE AREA WILL LEAD TO FAIR WEATHER CONDITIONS TODAY
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: PARTLY SUNNY TODAY. MOSTLY FAIR AND BREEZY TONIGHT.
WINDS: NORTHEAST TO EAST AT 10 TO 15 KNOTS, INCREASING TO 15 TO 20 KNOTS TONIGHT
SEAS: 2 TO 4 FEET, BUILDING UP TO 4 TO 6 FEET TONIGHT
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 86°F 30°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 79°F 26°C
SUNSET: 5:09 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 4:51 PM (2.3 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 11:08 PM (1.0 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST FOR THE NEXT TWO DAYS: HIGH PRESSURE RIDGING WILL CONTINUE TO DOMINATE THE AREA SUPPORTING MODERATE TO FRESH EAST WINDS FOR THE NEXT TWO DAYS.
FORECAST FOR THURSDAY
WEATHER: PARTLY SUNNY AND BREEZY IN THE DAY. MOSTLY FAIR AND BREEZY AT NIGHT.
WINDS: EASTERLY AT 15 TO 20 KNOTS
SEAS: 4 TO 6 FEET
SUNRISE: 5:56 AM
SUNSET: 5:08 PM
HIGH TIDE: 05:15 AM (2.3 FT)
LOW TIDE: 11:24 AM (1.0 FT)
FORECAST FOR FRIDAY
WEATHER: PARTLY SUNNY AND BREEZY
WINDS: EASTERLY 15 TO 20 KNOTS
SEAS: 4 TO 6 FEET
SUNRISE: 5:57 AM
SUNSET: 5:08 PM
HIGH TIDE: 05:59 AM (2.3 FT)
LOW TIDE:
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: TROPICAL CYCLONE ACTIVITY IS NOT EXPECTED DURING THE NEXT 48 HOURS.
TCI attends Colorado Environmental Health Association (CEHA) Conference
Two (2) Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) from the Ministry of Health and Human Services had a valuable experience attending the Colorado Environmental Health Association (CEHA) Conference that took place from Tuesday, 10th October to Friday, 13th October, 2023.
During the Conference, TCI delegates Tashy Forbes and Clevesha Outten, both from Providenciales, focused on exploring general professional and technical aspects of environmental health.
By doing so, they gained valuable insights into the latest developments, best practices, and innovative solutions in the field.
Attending such conferences is crucial for professionals to stay updated with the advancements in their respective fields and to network with fellow experts, ensuring that they can apply the most current knowledge and techniques in their work.
Key objectives of the Conference included:
School Chemical Cleanouts
Investigating Climate Change
Pressure Distribution Design in Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems
Lead-Based Paint/Dust in Schools: Home Daycares, Preschools & Kindergarten Classrooms
Closing the gaps on Critical Food Safety Elements
Starting a School Inspection program
Situational Awareness and De-Escalation
A Three-pronged Approach to Advancing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
Overall, the conference served as a platform for collaboration, learning, and networking among experts and practitioners in the field of Environmental Health and Safety.
Ministry of Immigration and Border Services Introduces the Launch of Border Force
The Ministry of Immigration and Border Services takes a bold step forward in enhancing border security with the launch of the first phase of Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force. Border Force will see the transformation of our legacy Customs Department, Immigration Department, and Work Permit Unit, with all areas brought together to form one dynamic, responsive and flexible approach to managing TCI’s border protection. The threats to our borders have grown significantly in recent years – and we’re transforming the way we operate to put us in a better position to be able to respond to those who attempt to break our rules and to deliver an enhanced service to our law-abiding, valued visitors and residents.
Leading the charge is the newly appointed Director General, Emilio Seymour, who will oversee the suite of changes being made over the next six months, and beyond. An evidence-based, redesigned structure will allow better targeting and flexing of resources, alongside a clear focus on customer service delivery, with three main operational areas; inland operations, port operations and a separate ‘services’ function – all underpinned and supported by a new Intelligence Unit.
Our future Border Force delivers border protection services, and enforces our laws, across four of our Islands, so the new organisation will roll out in phases.
Phase 1: 30th October 2023
Phase 1 of Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force officially launched on 30th October 2023, integrating Customs and Immigration operations at airports and seaports into one team. This development is a culmination of significant investments in restructuring, process changes, rebranding and upskilling of officers at airports and seaports in Providenciales over the past year.
Changes by Phase 1 already include:
- The transition of formerly separate immigration and customs teams into one border security operation at our ports of entry – one structure, simplified for staff and travellers;
- A clear vision to safeguard our borders and our nation’s prosperity, supported by six key values – professionalism, service excellence, integrity, accountability, empowerment and leadership;
- Intelligence-led operations, with streamlined processes, building on the existing frictionless customs experience and using data and detection techniques to target our effort;
- New, security- and customer-focused operational guidance for all staff working at the border, providing a supportive framework for accountable decision-making;
- New, unified branding; designed by our staff to help maintain pride in our operations and the services we deliver to the public;
- Enhancing our criminal investigations through partnership working; working with US and Canadian colleagues, based in-country, undertaking together painstaking investigations to prepare cases to bring those suspected of organised immigration criminality before the court and securing their conviction.
Launch Ceremony Highlights
The official launch of Phase 1 was marked with a prestigious opening ceremony on 30th October 2023 at the Howard Hamilton International Airport. Attending this momentous occasion were distinguished guests, including Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Honourable C. Washington Misick; Premier, Her Excellency Anya Williams; Deputy Governor, Members of Parliament and Permanent Secretaries from various ministries within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, along with other key stakeholders.
Commenting on the launch of Border Force Hon. Arlington Musgrove stated "As we launch Border Force in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we take a monumental step towards enhancing the security and efficiency of our ports of entry. This transformation signifies our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our borders, protecting our people, and ensuring a seamless experience for our visitors and residents. The dedication and professionalism of our Border Force Officers are at the core of this transition and their adaptability is a testament to the spirit of service that defines our islands."
What to Expect in Phase 2: From 2024
Phase 2, scheduled to come online in 2024, will see the launch of all other units of Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force. As this transition progresses, the inland element of our Border Force will be brought to life, delivering all customs and immigration enforcement, alongside the establishment of one combined services function. This new function will strive for a new approach to customer service, bringing the consideration and delivery of all applications in one place to allow us to more easily monitor response times and better flex to demands.
Later in 2024, Border Force plans to introduce digital borders, including automation for low-risk travellers, biometrics to drive security and, for the first time, one end-to-end system containing the details of all known non-citizens in our Islands, further solidifying our commitment to leveraging intelligence and technology for the benefit of our nation's security.
Our transformation into a Border Force demonstrates our forward-looking and responsive dedication to protecting the integrity of our borders, and the Government’s commitment and support to border security. We are excited to embark on this journey and look forward to the positive impact Border Force will have on our community, economy, and the overall well-being of our beloved islands. Together, we stand united in our mission to preserve the natural beauty and harmony of the Turks and Caicos Islands for generations to come.
Postponement of the Right Excellent James Alexander George Smith McCartney Documentary Viewing
We regret to inform you that, due to unforeseen circumstances, we must postpone the Premiere of the Right Excellent James Alexander George Smith McCartney Documentary Viewing, originally scheduled for today, November 1, 2023, in Grand Turk.
This decision was not made lightly, and we understand the inconvenience it may cause to our valued attendees. Please be assured that we are working diligently to reschedule the event at the earliest possible date, and we will notify you of the new date and time as soon as it has been determined.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and support in this matter. Our commitment to delivering an exceptional viewing experience remains unwavering, and we look forward to sharing this remarkable documentary with you in the near future.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to contact the Department of Culture at culturedept@gov.tc.
Thank you for your understanding, and we appreciate your continued interest in the Right Excellent James Alexander George Smith McCartney Documentary Viewing.
ST. KITTS Tourism minister undergoes emergency surgery
St. Kitts-Nevis Tourism, Civil Aviation, International Transport, Employment and Labour, and Urban Development Minister, Marsha Henderson, underwent emergency surgery on Tuesday night, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has confirmed.
“I am relieved to report that the procedure was successful,” said Drew a medical practitioner, without disclosing the nature of her illness, but asking the population for “collective prayers …for her swift and complete recovery.
“The Minister has been a dedicated public servant and a driving force behind the development and progress of our nation. Her health and well-being are of utmost importance to us all,” he added.
Prime Minister Drew said he was also urging the public to ”respect her privacy and that of her family,” during the process of recuperation.
“We understand the concern and care our citizens have for her, but it is crucial that she be allowed the time and space to heal without unnecessary intrusion,” he said, adding “We are fortunate to have a strong and capable team in place, and the work of the Ministries she holds will continue smoothly in her absence.
“I encourage everyone to keep the Hon Marsha Henderson in your thoughts and prayers as she embarks on her journey to recovery. Our collective support and well wishes will undoubtedly contribute to her healing and her return to her duties with renewed strength,” Prime Minister Drew added.
Source-CMC
Central bank predicts continued economic growth for The Bahamas
Governor of the Central Bank of the Bahamas (CBB), John Rolle, says the local economy is projected to experience continued growth in 2023, although more moderated.
“By 2024, activity could settle closer in line with the economy’s medium-term growth potential. This evolution is expected to sustain continued high levels of banking liquidity, and comfortably adequate external reserves,” Rolle said as the CBB released the Monthly Economic and Financial Developments for September.
He told reporters that from a policy perspective, it continues to leave the Central Bank open to accommodating more growth in lending to the private sector and the domestic markets in a sustainable state to finance an expanded share of the fiscal deficit in local currency.
“ In any event, the outlook is also expected to encompass continued fiscal consolidation that should reduce the government’s total borrowing requirements,” Rolle said, adding “Nevertheless, there are downside risks that justify caution. Imported inflation could impede the economy’s ability to retain foreign exchange, while escalated energy costs could make the tourism product more expensive and less attractive.
He said in addition, the rising interest rates, which push back against inflation, could impose higher costs on the government’s foreign currency debt and could slow the pace of foreign investments that rely on debt financing.
“Weaved throughout these trends are geopolitical tensions from the war in Ukraine, and now the Middle East. In these respects, the Central Bank’s monetary policy posture is cautiously balanced and measured,” he added.
Rolle said that the available data through the third quarter of 2023 continue to show a healthy recovery and transition of the Bahamian economy, away from setbacks of the coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic.
He said tourism underpins the recovery, with aggressive marketing efforts taking advantage of the relaxed global travel conditions.
“Indications are that support from foreign direct investments is also being maintained at healthy levels. As a result, the outlook for employment remains positive. Meanwhile, the inflation expectations for The Bahamas have moderated, even though transitional firming remained evident due to the delayed pass-through from higher electricity costs.”.
Rolle said in the financial sector, trends are characterized by steadily reducing credit delinquency rates, while the outlook for lending to the private sector is gradually improving. “Nevertheless, there is a more discernible abatement in the speed of economic growth. With private sector demand more caught up to the rest of the economy and the government more reliant on local currency borrowing, some consequent net reduction in the Central Bank’s foreign reserves continues to be expected over the remainder of this year.”
The Central Bank Governor said the near-term risks to the economy remain concentrated around imported inflation, escalating geopolitical tensions, and the multiple adverse impacts that rising international interest rates could have on the financing costs for the public and private sectors.
He said that based on trends in tourism, and the observed level of foreign currency inflows through the private sector, the economy is still expected to grow at an above-average pace in 2023, in the three to four percent range.
“This compares to the majority of the COVID-19 rebound that grew the economy by about 14. per cent in 2022. In the first half of 2023, there continued to be some residual recovery in stopover tourism, compared to the pre-pandemic highs.
“ Alongside increased average prices for hotel rooms and vacation rentals, this helped to expand the sector’s total economic contribution. However, over the first eight months of the year, neither air nor sea arrivals numbers experienced significant, additional seasonal headcount growth compared to the pre-pandemic estimates.”
Rolle said that compared to seasonal performance in the same months of the preCOVID-19 period, sea arrivals leveled off favourably about 42 percent above the pre-pan
He said the varied, anticipated boost in hotel and cruise capacity in 2024, could create the headroom to improve these seasonal indicators.
Regarding the foreign exchange situation, Rolle said that the foreign exchange markets provide a good indicator of the collective impacts of tourism, investments, and other inflow activities on the economy.
“They are also a reliable early gauge of the annual variations in the level of activity in most parts of the economy. In this regard, during the first nine months of 2023, total foreign inflows through the banking sector rose just 2.5 percent compared to 2022. The recovery-driven improvement in receipts in the same period in 2022 was 40 percent..
“In the meantime, the demand for foreign exchange increased by 7.1 percent in 2023, compared to approximately 30.1 percent in 2022. While these trends underscore healthy conditions overall, the relatively stronger growth in foreign exchange sales led to a smaller net retention, and therefore decreased net sale of foreign exchange from commercial banks to the Central Bank.”
Role said that given net foreign exchange trends, the external reserves of the Central Bank remained on course to contract this year.
In particular, the Central Bank’s net foreign exchange purchase from commercial banks decreased by almost one-third from January through September 2023. Moreover, there was an approximate US$700 million reversal in transactions with the government sector, from a net purchase or boost to reserves over the same months in 2022, to a net sale of foreign exchange in the first three quarters of the current year.
“ As a result, the external reserves fell incrementally over the nine months to September 2023, compared a net accumulation of nearly US$750 million in the same period last year. As regards the leading influence of the government’s debt management operations, some of the draw down in reserves already experienced could be reversed over the remainder of the year, given some planned foreign currency borrowing, but the cumulative impact in 2023 is still expected to be a reduction.”
Rolle said as of the end of October, the external reserve balances were at US$2.5 billion, about five percent below the closing levels for 2022.
He said these balances continue to be healthy and more than adequate to support the value of the Bahamian dollar fixed exchange rate. The outlook for the reserves also continues to be supportive of increased expansion in private sector credit and an increased share of financing of the fiscal deficit in local currency.
The Central Bank Governor said in the banking sector, there are steadily improving indicators of credit quality, with the outlook for lending shifting more positively.
As of September, just 6.8 percent of estimated private sector loan balances had fallen behind in repayments by 90 days or more, compared to 8.1 percent of all credit balances at the same point in 2022, and an average setback during the height of the pandemic of to almost 10 percent of loan balances, Rolle said.
“In addition, a gradual, though still very mild pattern of growth, was established in total lending to the private sector over the first 9 months of 2023. It included a bottoming out of multiple years of reduction in consumer lending and additional gains in business loans. However, the residential mortgage segment was further contracted overall.”
Rolle said that in line with these trends, based on the latest lending conditions survey for the first half of 2023, commercial banks also reported a further uptick in applications for credit, concentrated in consumer and business loans.
Banks also approved an increased volume of applications for credit, he added.