Overseas Territory Leaders and Representatives at Pre-JMC

Leaders and representatives met in Gibraltar, in recognition of National Day, with the people of Gibraltar in a show of solidarity for their shared values and principles as a British Overseas Territory.

RTC will have more on this story in a later newscast.

 


Turks and Caicos Islands school sports season 2023/24 officially opens in September

After an active summer of events, Turks and Caicos Islands School Sports (TCISS) season 2023/24 will open with TCISS Football for Boys and Girls on September 30, 2023.
 
The opening ceremony of TCISS Football will take place at the TCI Football Association on Venetian Road, Providenciales and we will commute to the National Stadium for the games. Games will take place weekly on Fridays and Saturdays. After making their debut last year, TCISS Girls Football will run concurrently with Boys Football on a split pitch from September through October. The championship games are slated for October 28, 2023.
 
Last year's Girls' football champions were the Marjorie Basden High School after defeating the British West Indies Collegiate 2-1. The Boys' champions were the Clement Howell High School who beat out the Elite High School who forfeited the game 1-0. All current students, fans and alumni are encouraged to watch the games weekly each Friday and Saturday, with tickets for Adults $5 and Children $3. 
 
TCISS Boys Basketball quickly picks up after the Football season ends, spanning from early November 2023 to January 2024. Home and away games are one the highlights of this event, affording all teams a chance at a 'home-court' advantage throughout the season. As is tradition in TCISS, schools will be randomly selected and placed into pools to compete. Ultimately the strongest teams will meet at the championships. The reigning champions are the Clement Howell High School who defeated the A. Louise Garland Thomas High School 92-56 for the gold. 
 
In a double-team affair, TCISS Girls Softball will launch a few weeks post Boys Basketball's commencement, for a season which lasts from November 2023 - January 2024. This means softball and basketball seasons will run concurrently like last year, and tickets will allow entry to both games. The reigning champions are the HJ Robinson High School who won the championships 14-6 in their hometown Grand Turk against the Wesley Methodist High School. The championships will return to the nation's capital next year, in honour of last year's champions.
 
Ending the TCISS season will be the Track and Field events also known as Athletics. The Athletics opener will be the Track and Field Development meets. Historically this has been segmented into two meets: Sprints and Throws, Distance and Jumps.
 
Following will be the TCISS Inter-High Track and Field Championships also known as Nationals in March 2024 then the TCISS Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships also in March. Last year's champions of Inter-High was the A. Louise Garland Thomas High School and for Inter-Primary the Ona Glinton Primary School. After being implemented last season, TCISS Track and Field champions are determined by a medal count with gold holding the most weight.
 
TCISS 2023/24 Sport Schedule
  1. TCISS Inter-High School Football Boys, TCISS Inter-High School Football Girls - September 30, 2023 - October 28, 2023 (Providenciales)
  2. TCISS Inter-High School Basketball - November 2023 - January 2024 (All-Island)
  3. TCISS Inter-High School Softball - November 2023 - January 2023 (Season Games - Providenciales. Semi-finals & Championships - Grand Turk)
  4. Track and Field Development Meets - February 2024
  5. TCISS Inter-High School Track and Field - February - March 2024 (Providenciales)
  6. TCISS Inter-Primary School Track and Field - March 2023 (Providenciales)
The full TCISS event schedule and further updates will be found on the TCI Sports Commission's website www.gov.tc/sports/

SCOTIABANK TCI WINS “BEST DIGITAL BANK AWARD” FOR 3RD YEAR

Scotiabank has been named, for the third consecutive year, the Best Consumer Digital Bank in The Turks and Caicos Islands. The prestigious award was made by the highly respected North American finance magazine Global Finance.
Scotiabank's operations in The Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and The Cayman Islands also shared the honor. Across the North and Central Caribbean region, the Bank also picked up sub-category awards for the best mobile app. Scotiabank Turks & Caicos has made significant investments in its digital infrastructure, innovating its platforms to deliver higher levels of customer satisfaction.

Scotiabank Turks & Caicos’ success this year was solidified by its expanded digital banking services, its newly introduced e-commerce business platform, and the launch of a new mortgage pre-qualifications platform.
Dr. Suzan Snaggs-Wilson, managing director and country head for Scotiabank Turks & Caicos, has praised her team for supporting the bank’s customers during the digital transformation process. She further noted that the digital that the developments have significantly improved the Bank’s customer engagement, satisfaction, and self-service channels.

"We are so thrilled to again receive this Best Consumer Digital Bank Award from Global Finance and we are delighted that our customers have embraced our digital improvements that have earned us this accolade once again. For us, this award is a further testament to our commitment to refining and modernizing the services that we offer all to the benefit of all our valued customers,” she noted.

The Best Consumer Digital Award celebrates a number of performance benchmarks, including a strategy to attract and service digital customers, success in the onboarding and growth of digital consumers, and web and mobile design and functionality.
Over the past three years, Scotiabank has significantly expanded its online footprint, with more than 70 percent of all banking customers now onboarded. Online and Mobile Banking now represents its second most utilized banking channel and growth of digital consumers, and web and mobile design and functionality.

Founded in 1987 and distributed in more than 150 countries, Global Finance is the gold standard of service excellence in the financial sector.


Halle Berry says Drake used her slime photo without permission

Halle Berry is less than thrilled that Drake used her photo to promote his latest single. 

The Oscar-winning actress took to Instagram on September 15th, sharing a quote that emphasized the need to take the higher road, even if you're a woman. The post came after Drake teased his latest single, "Slime You Out," featuring SZA, along with a post on his social media featuring a 2012 Kids' Choice Awards photo of Halle being drenched in green slime. 

When a user inquired about her thoughts on Drake's use of the photo, Berry replied, "Hence my post today. When people you admire disappoint you, you have to be the bigger person and move on!"

In response to another fan's comment that the rapper should have asked first, the actress revealed, "He did have his people call my people and I said NO. I didn't like that image of slime all over my face in association with his song. And he chose to do it anyway! You see...that is the disrespect. Not cool!"

While some argued that Drake may have obtained permission from Getty Images, which owns the photo, Halle clarified, "Cuz he asked me and I said NO, that's why. Why ask if you intend to do what you want to do? That was the **** you to me. Not cool. You get it?"

Halle also emphasized the importance of principles and integrity in her responses and questioned the meaning behind the photo and the song's lyrics, reinforcing her stance on the matter.

"Slime You Out" dropped on Friday, September 15. It is featured on Drake's upcoming eighth studio album For All the Dogs, which is due out on October 6. 

 Source-ABC


House Republicans are in 'civil war' amid Biden impeachment probe, looming shutdown

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries argued on Sunday that his Republican colleagues are "in the middle of a civil war" over the best way forward amid a newly launched impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, an ongoing spending fight, and another looming shutdown of the federal government.

"Civil war has the following attributes: chaos, dysfunction and extremism. The House Republican civil war is hurting hardworking American taxpayers and limiting our ability to be able to solve problems on their behalf," Jeffries told ABC This Week co-anchor Jonathan Karl, in an exclusive interview.

"It's unfortunate. But as House Democrats, we're going to continue to try to find common ground with the other side of the aisle," Jeffries said, adding: "Hopefully the House Republicans will come along so that we can work to make sure we are funding the government."

Jeffries also said the White House "will continue to cooperate" with the impeachment inquiry "because there is nothing to hide."

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., appeared on This Week after Jeffries and acknowledged the GOP has its issues with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy but shot back: "I find it a little bit hypocritical that that is the divisive language that he used in his interview and talking about people over politics."

Source-ABC


Guyana President wants global community to meet commitments to SIDS

Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, Monday, said he believes that significant progress can only be made in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) if national efforts are matched by commitments being fulfilled.

In addition, Ali told the two-day 2023 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, also known as the SDG Summit, that significant progress can also be achieved if an international environment is created that fosters progress for all countries.

He said critical to this, is action on the Bridgetown Initiative, liquidity support, debt sustainability, development funding, and governance reforms of international financial institutions.

under the Bridgetown Initiative, Caribbean countries have noted that rich countries are able to borrow at interest rates of between one and four percent, while it’s around 14 percent for poorer countries,

The SDG Summit serves as a pivotal milestone in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, marking the halfway point of its implementation. It presents a crucial opportunity to accelerate our collective efforts towards sustainable development.

The SDG Summit will also address the complex challenges our world faces due to various interconnected crises. Its objective is to rekindle hope, optimism, and enthusiasm for the 2030 Agenda.

Ali told the summit that the event is taking place at the mid-point of the implementation of Agenda 2030 in a crisis.

“Be it food, energy, climate, and the destabilizing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the combined effect of these crises has significantly derailed the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.”

He said the increased cost of financing, rising debt to gross domestic product (GDP), and unsustainable balance sheets have placed the developing world in a precarious position.

Ali, quoting a recent report by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), said the gap in financing to achieve four critical SDGs for Latin America and the Caribbean, including access to water and sanitation, energy, building infrastructure that promotes sustainable industrialization and innovation, and making cities sustainable, would require US$2.2 trillion.

He said additionally, the debt-to-GDP ratio in the Latin America and Caribbean region in 2022 was 117 percent and inflation stood at 9.2 percent.”

“This is the situation of just one region of the world,” Ali said, adding that Guyana’s expansion of its economy has allowed the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country to focus heavily on the SDGs.

“ For example, investment per capita in health has increased by 62 percent, in education by 64 percent, and security by 153 percent over a three-year period. But national commitment alone will not be enough to achieve the SDGs, especially for the poorest and most vulnerable.”

Ali said that a major part of the problem is the lack of progress with Goal 17 on global partnerships and the failure of the international community to deliver on its commitments.

International financial commitments, be it the 0.7 percent of Gross National Product (GNP) for official development assistance (ODA).

He said this was a commitment made 50 years ago, similar to the US$100 billion annually under the Paris Agreement to developing countries, among others that have not been met. “Additionally, our international financial architecture is out of sync with the needs of developing countries and must be reformed. Developing countries are faced with higher food inflation, five percent higher than the rest of the world in most cases.

“To compound this, for developing countries, the average interest on external borrowing is three times higher than that of developed countries. We will not have a world where everyone everywhere enjoys their full human rights, peace, and security, and is free from poverty and hunger unless the right to development is realized and respected.”


Vacancies exist within the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service

The following vacancies within the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service has been extended:         

       

For more details regarding these positions kindly visit www.gov.tc/government-vacancies.        

 

Office of the Governor 

  • Communications Manager - CFB3-23-01
  • Housekeeper - CFB3-23-02
  • Aide De Camp - CFB3-23-03
  • Senior Internal Audit - CFB3-23-04
  • Senior Administrative Officer - CFB3-23-05
  • Audit Principal - CFB3-23-06
  • Senior Finance Audit Manager CFB3-23-07 
  • Deputy Supervisor of Elections - CFB3-23-97

 

Office of the Premier & Public Policy  

 

  • Aide De Camp - CBB3-23-81
  • Deputy Director - SPPU - CBB3-23-82
  • Director of Communications - CBB3-23-83
  • Communications Coordinator - CBB3-23-96

 

Office of the Deputy Governor 

  • Compliance Manager - CFB3-23-84
     
  • Procurement Manager - CFB3-23-76
House of Assembly
  • Administrative Officer - CFB3-23-98

 Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services    

 

  • Administrative Officer -KGB3-23-08
  • Graduate Early Childhood Teacher - KGB3-23-09
  • Administrative Assistant - KGB3-23-10
  • Security Officer - KGB3-23-11
  • Vice Principal - Thelma Lightbourne Primary School - KGB3-23-12
  • Principal - Louise Garland Thomas Primary School - KGB3-23-13
  • Occupational Therapist - KGB3-23-14
  • Groundsman - KGB3-12-15
  • Principal - Special Needs Center - KGB3-23-16
  • Graduate Mathematics Teacher - KGB3-23-17
  • Graduate Upper Primary Teacher - KGB3-2318
  • Colonel/Commandent - KGB3-23-78
  • Administrative Officer - Youth Affairs - KGB3-23-79
  • Graduate Physical Education Teacher - kGB3-23-89
  • Graduate Social Studies Teacher - KGB3-23-90
  • Graduate Chemistry Teacher - KGB3-23-91
  • Graduate History/Geography Teacher - KGB3-23-92
  • Graduate Industrial Arts Teacher - KGB3-23-93
  • Graduate Upper Primary Teacher 
  • Special Education Teacher 
  • Mathematics Specialist 

 

Ministry of Finance, Investment and Trade     

 

  • Administrative Officer - LSB3-23-19
  • Senior Budget Analyst - LSB3-23-20
  • Compliance Officer - LSB3-23-21
  • Tax Officer - LSB3-23-22
  • Finance Manager - LSB3-23-23
  • Head of Secretariat - LSB3-23-74

 

Ministry of Home Affairs, Public Utilities and Transportation   

 

  • Probation Officer - LSB3-23-24
  • Security Officer - LSB3-23-25
  • Liaison Officer – LSB3-23-26
    Rehabilitation Manager - LSB3-23-27
  • Assistant Government Printer - LSB2-23-36 
  • Psychiatric Social Worker - LSB3-23-73

 

 National Security Secretariat

  • Public Information & Media Manager - JPB3-23-28
  • Training and Education Manager - JPB3-23-29

Ministry of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, Heritage, Religious Affairs & The Environment  

 

  • Director (DECR) – SRB3-23-20
  • Maritime Officer - SRB3-23-31
  • Clerical Assistant (Agriculture) - SRB3-23-32
  • Deputy Director (TRA) - SRB3-23-33                   
  • Senior Administrative Officer (TRA) - SRB3-23-34
  • Communication Officer (TRA) - SRB3-23-35
  • Administrative Assistant (TRA) - SRB3-23-36
  • Controller (TRA) - SRB3-23-37

 

Ministry of Immigration and Border Services 

  • Immigration Officer - CFB3-23-38
  • Administrative Officer - MOI - CFB3-23-39
  • Vice President Labour Tribunal - CFB3-23-40
  • Administrative Assistant - Data Input Officer - CFB3-23-41
  • IT & Digital Systems Administrator - CFB23-43
  • Deputy Collector of Customs - CFB3-23-85
  • Senior Caseworker Supervisor - CFB3-23-75

 

Attorney General’s Chambers   

  • Registrar of Lands - SRB3-23-44
  • Land Administration Officer (Crown Land Unit) - SRB3-23-45
  • Crown Counsel - SRB3-23-80

 Judiciary  

 

  • Aide De Camp - SRB3-23-46
  • Listing Clerk - SRB3-23-47
  • Assistant Clerk

  

Ministry of Health and Human Services   

 

  • Medical Officer - PHC - JPB3-23-52
  • Medical Officer - EMS - JPB3-23-53
  • Dump Attendant - JPB3-23-54
  • National Epidemiologist - JPB3-23-55
  • Refuse Truck Driver - JPB3-23-56
  • Refuse Collector - JPB3-23-57
  • Inspector (HRA) - JPB3-23-58
  • Executive Administrator - JPB3-23-59
  • Chief Medical Technologist - JPB3-23-60 
  • Medical Technologist - JPB3-23-61
  • Psychologist - JPB3-23-62
  • Cleaner - JPB3-23-63
  • Porter - JPB3-23-64
  • Maid (NPHL) - JPB23-65
  • Maid (SNU) - JPB3-23-66
  • Community Health Aide -JPB3-23-67
  • Board Secretary - JPB3-23-68
  • Environmental Health Officer - JPB3-23-69
  • Emergency Medical Technician - JPB3-23-70
  • Director of Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit - JPB3-23-95

 

Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development 

 

  • Mechanical Superintendent - CBB3-23-87

 

For more details regarding these positions kindly refer to the attached Vacancy Notice or visit www.gov.tc/government-vacancies         

           

Application Deadline:  22nd SEPTEMBER 2023

          

Please ensure that all applications submitted by email clearly states the Job Title and Job Reference Number in the subject line and all applications received via hard copy are clearly marked with the Job Title.               

       

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted.              

          

Please Note:         

          

Applications that are not accompanied by all required supporting documents will not be processed.         

          

Regards      

      

Human Resource Management Directorate    

 


TCI Speech from the Throne – under the theme: Delivering For You

Speech from the Throne – Theme: Delivering For You

Delivered by Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam

Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands

14th September 2023

 

INTRODUCTION

Mr. Speaker and Honourable Members!

 Lamentations 3:22–23 reminds us that:

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.”

 

Mr Speaker! I am delighted to deliver this condensed version of the achievements and immediate plans of my government at the beginning of the First (1st) Sitting of the First (1st) Meeting of the Third (3rd) Session of the Twelfth (12th) Legislature of the House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

 

2022/23 HIGHLIGHTS

Mr Speaker! The 2022/23 Financial Year was challenging for my government and the people of these islands, but through the mercies of God, we finished the year with much to celebrate and much to be thankful for.

 

Mr. Speaker! While the TCI’s economic prospects are tied to the rest of the world, this little country is doing far better than many larger economies.

 

The economy has recovered fully from the downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and over the last two and a half years has seen consistent growth;

  • The unemployment rate is trending down

·         We have nearly wiped the slate clean of debts, with unsecured debts of $861 thousand dollars in the last quarter.

  • The National Wealth Fund stands at $50.8 million. This is a testament to our journey toward posterity. It is a testament to an economy built to withstand external shocks and has the ability to bounce back quickly after a catastrophic event or natural disaster. The fund is valued at about 4% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is distributed in four specific ways:
  • The Stabilisation Fund has the lion’s share with $30.7million
  • The Infrastructure and Competitiveness Fund has $8.8 million
  • The Heritage Fund has $4.3 million and
  • Citizen's Empowerment Fund $7 million. The first project of the Citizen’s Empowerment Fund is the creation of the National Credit Union to benefit all status holders and British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTCs) who live in the TCI. I am happy to report that this is well underway.

 

Mr. Speaker!

  • Our people have a free community college education
  • A (6%) Pension and Gratuity Programme for persons employed after 1992 is now a reality and we have reinstated the 25% gratuity for persons employed before 1992
  • In June the pension account had just over $16 million

·         The National Forfeiture Fund had a balance of $7.2 million as of 30th June 2023.

·         My government gave a 4% across-the-board salary increase to public servants and the police received an additional 10% increase. 

  • My government has introduced a new crown land policy to make it easier for new applicants to acquire residential crown land and housing.
  • Grand Turk has better water supplies with a new 1-million-gallon reverse osmosis plant, a 1- million-gallon storage tank, and a water dispensary for more efficient water distribution.

 

Mr. Speaker! The past year with its many challenges has shown the commitment of my government to deliver for the people.

 

My government has steadfastly pursued sound economic management, focused on improving the lives of the people by preserving livelihoods and creating new opportunities.

 

The policies and programmes of my government have helped the TCI rebound from the pandemic and the supply chain problems caused by the Russia-Ukraine war.

My government is thankful for the understanding and support of the public as we continue to build a strong social environment and economic resilience.

NEW PARLIAMENTARY YEAR

Mr Speaker! A new parliamentary year is always a time of renewal and of hope.

As we enter this legislative year, we must be mindful that as a tourist-dependent economy, we will remain vulnerable to global economic conditions.

That is why my government is striving to build an economy that has a strong foundation, is sustainable, diversified and above all gives every islander and resident an equal opportunity to create the best life for their families.

My government is delivering for you!

THE YEAR AHEAD

Mr. Speaker! My government has a sacred contract with the people.

This is not about quick fixes and short-term gains.

We have a long-term vision to develop the Turks and Caicos Islands with first-class facilities and the standard of living of developed countries. Our people deserve no less.

My government will push the implementation of VISION 2040, the TCI’s master plan to guide our development over the next fifteen to twenty years.

 

COMPREHENSIVE SALARY REVIEW

Mr. Speaker, my government believes that our public servants must be properly compensated. A comprehensive review of all salaries and allowances across government is underway, led by Ernst and Young (Caribbean-Jamaica). Implementation is scheduled for December 2023. 

The last pay/grading review was done 2012, and implemented in 2014, almost 10 years ago.

 

PENSION FUND MANAGEMENT

Mr. Speaker! In August 2023, a new online pension registration portal was launched for public servants to update their information including beneficiaries.  Very soon, staff will be able to track their benefit calculations online. 

With over $16 million, the Pension Fund requires specialist managers. A second tender call was issued this month for the administration of the fund. The pension administrator will not only manage the fund but will be tasked with growing the fund through safe investments.

The intention is to also open the programme in 2024 to interested private sector participants.

 

TRAINING DEPARTMENT

To improve public service delivery and ensure that staff have the necessary skills, the training unit is being upscaled into a full-fledged Training Department.  A new Training Director has been hired. 

 

My government will launch a comprehensive skills and training needs assessment to better understand the gaps and develop training objectives and plans.

 

BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS

My government believes that public servants must be provided with a comfortable working environment. The Deputy Governor has been asked to work with ministries to identify gaps and make resource planning more efficient. 

Some important departments will be relocated to more suitable accommodations. They include:

  • The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
  • Housing Department
  • Estates Management Department
  • The Informal Settlement Unit
  • The Culture Department, and
  • The Planning Department

 

EXPANDING OUR ECONOMIC BASE

Mr Speaker!

The Russia-Ukraine war continues to have a negative impact on us.

Over the last year, we have seen the cost of fuel and food increase significantly.

My government is mindful of the hardships that many families are facing. As we have done over the last two and a half years, we will continue to find ways to ease the burdens.

 

Mr. Speaker!

My government will continue to watch the world economy and adjust as we see fit to ensure that our people are protected and have a chance for the best outcomes.

The global economic contraction is cause for concern. For the first quarter, the TCI revenues were $109.8 million. That is $3.7 million or 3% below estimates.

Total Expenditure was $20.9 million below estimates.  These results are for the 1st quarter only and could change.

 

VISION 2040

Mr. Speaker!

My government is committed to the vision that by 2040, these “Beautiful by Nature” Turks and Caicos Islands will be ever closer to developed country status.

We will have a robust and sustainable economy and every citizen will be empowered to create the best lives for their families.

We will achieve this through a high level of human capital development, equal access and more opportunities for our people, increased security, a cleaner environment, and a more efficient government.

Vision 2040 is the TCI’s master plan to guide our development over the next fifteen to twenty years and it is dynamic and flexible.

This plan is crafted in a way that facilitates consistent monitoring and evaluation.

It will be supported by successive Medium Term Development Strategies (MTDS) which will be updated as warranted based on prevailing conditions locally and globally.

 

Mr. Speaker! Importantly, the goals and broad strategies of Vision 2040 have been agreed on by stakeholders, including the two major political parties and the private sector.

 

Achieving the goals articulated in Vision 2040 requires strong leadership, belief in ourselves, partnership among all stakeholders and an ironclad commitment to stay the course.

Proverbs tells us that without a vision the people perish.

Those who came before us had very little, but they had big dreams.

They endured hardships. Their work in the fields, in the ocean and in the salt ponds was backbreaking and brutal. But they sacrificed and persevered because they wanted a better life for their children and their children’s children.

 

We have a sacred duty to build on the foundations they laid and pay forward on the hopes and dreams of the generations to come. 

 

The decisions we make today will determine the outcome for these islands and her people.

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

Mr. Speaker! An important plank of Vision 2040 is to create infrastructure that will support the long-term development of the country, expand our economic base, and make the lives of all our people better.

 

Our airports, seaports, telecommunications, roads, water, housing and power supplies are critical elements of our national development plan.

 

PORTS

We must create secure and safe ports, which can satisfy the needs of our people, support our economy, and comply with international conventions and codes.

 

Modern and world-class port facilities will enhance our reputation, as a country capable of facilitating trade and commerce with other nations.

Mr. Speaker! Efficient ports reduce the cost of shipping and imported goods.

 

For an import-dependent country, these efficiencies will help lower the cost of living and doing business in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

 

The Bellefield Landing Welcome Centre was opened in October last year and we have more investments in the pipeline for the

‘gateway’ to North and Middle Caicos.

 

Ninety percent of imports in the Turks and Caicos Islands are received at South Dock, in Providenciales.

 

To take our country to the next level of development, we are constructing a new port at South Dock. The project will cost $53 million and $43.7 million has already been allocated.

 

The South Dock project is a priority for the medium term. On completion, South Dock will have:

  • A new port office complex
  • Two piers capable of handling three vessels at the same time, and two modern container yards
  • A container scanner
  • Fully digitised systems, and
  • A modern fuel discharge system which will improve environmental conditions

 

My government is delivering on every promise!

 

AIRPORTS

We are developing modern airports to facilitate seamless travel into and throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Mr. Speaker! Several orders have been signed to legalise the official renaming of our airports.

The new names honour giants who have helped to build these Turks and Caicos Islands:

  • Providenciales International is now the Howard Hamilton International Airport.
  • North Caicos International is now Clifford Gardiner International Airport.
  • Middle Caicos Airport is now Eric Arthur Domestic Airport.
  • South Caicos International Airport is now the Norman B. Saunders Sr. International Airport and;
  • Salt Cay Airport is the Henry Leon Wilson Airport

 

Mr. Speaker! My government is making steady progress on the redevelopment of the Howard Hamilton International Airport.

 

We have hired contractors to assist with technical, legal, environmental, and financial assessments.

 

An Invitation for Pre-qualifications (IFP) was launched in August 2023 and extended to the second week of October due to a significant interest in the project. This very important stage of the process has set out the minimum criteria which potential bidders must satisfy.

 

The Invitation to Tender (ITT) is scheduled for release on 24th October 2023.

 

Mr. Speaker! My government fully supports the TCI Airports Authority’s (TCIAA’s) intention to offer an alternative funding scheme to include Turks and Caicos Islanders in the ownership of the concession arrangement for the airport.

The redevelopment will include:

  • A new turn pad (airside)
  • A bigger apron
  • Nearly doubling the accommodation for passengers and
  • Adding parking capacity for vehicles

Mr. Speaker! We will have good news on the reopening of the Norman B. Saunders Sr. International Airport in South Caicos soon.

My government spent $1.5 million to restore the roof and building of the JAGs McCartney International Airport, damaged by last year’s hurricane. $4.2 million is being spent to restore the perimeter fence.

 

My government is delivering for you!

 

FIBREOPTIC CABLE

Mr Speaker, a modern Turks and Caicos requires reliable and fast communication systems.

Over seven million dollars has been allocated to build a modern fibre cable to connect all the main inhabited islands from Providenciales to Grand Turk.

This will link to international fibre cables giving us high-quality connectivity to the rest of the world. It will make telecommunications services more reliable and affordable.

My government is delivering for you!

 

HOUSING

Mr Speaker! Adequate housing is critical to my government’s commitment to build safe communities across the TCI.

My government’s promise to fix the housing problem is being addressed through an ambitious and comprehensive policy. The first stage of the policy is now being implemented.

 

Further work is being done to develop a framework that will provide affordable housing for all TC Islanders. Progress on this will be announced in the coming months.

My government will not rest until quality housing solutions at affordable prices are the standard in this country.

 

My government is delivering for you!

 

ROADS

Mr Speaker,  a new transportation masterplan is far advanced, and the necessary steps are being taken to implement key aspects. In the meantime, highway and road improvements, remediation works to ponds and bridges and drainage improvements across the islands are underway.

 

$14.1 million has been budgeted for the improvement works.  Of this amount, more than $3.5 million is being spent in the nation’s capital – Grand Turk to redevelop roads and bridges.

 

My government is delivering on its promises!

 

NATIONAL DELIVERY UNIT

My government has established a National Delivery Unit to lead the planning, monitoring, and control of high-priority projects. The aim is to deliver quality projects, on time and on budget and give our people good value for money.

 

A five-member external team will provide oversight for twelve (12) priority projects for another year while transferring knowledge to a core internal team and other civil servants who will implement and carry out strategic projects.

 

My government is delivering for you!

 

CONSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Mr. Speaker! The UK has recognised the growing complexity of the TCI society and the increased workload of my government. It has agreed to a change in the constitution allowing an 8th portfolio ministry. Additionally, representative responsibility at Caricom and other regional bodies has been entrusted to an elected member of Cabinet.

 

However, the desire and goal of the people are to attain changes that will take the constitution closer to self-determination at the earliest time. That work is at a very advanced stage.

 

Mr Speaker! A new cross-party proposal was submitted to the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) for consideration. I am pleased to say that the next round of talks is scheduled to take place in the TCI in October 2023.

 

It is my government’s hope that changes should be brought in, on or before the end of the calendar year. 

 

CROWN LANDS

Mr Speaker! Last May, my government announced a policy to make crown lands more easily accessible to the people, the rightful owners, on discounted terms for those who qualify. 

 

Since then, my government has passed legislation to facilitate the policy and is recruiting eleven employees and consultants to implement these transformational reforms. They include:

  • The ability to convert residential Conditional Purchase Leases (CPLs) to freeholds at a 50% discount, up from 25%.
  • A two-year amnesty programme for residential CPLs – to forgive outstanding rent and claims and allow lessees to acquire a freehold title.
  • A period of up to 6 months to accept an offer to purchase a residential freehold or leasehold.
  • Surrendering a CPL without payment of arrears.
  • Allowing the executor or administrator of an estate with an expired residential CPL to purchase the property if the deceased used it as a primary residence.
  • Many options to assist persons in acquiring titles include - convert a residential CPL to a freehold title, purchasing freehold titles in installments, converting CPL to a long lease, surrendering CPL, or allowing holders to shrink, reconfigure and in exceptional cases to exchange the plot.

 

Mr. Speaker! My government is delivering for our people!

 

DMO (Experience Turk and Caicos)/Tourism Regulation Department

Mr. Speaker! Tourism is our bread and butter. The TCI has become one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. We cater to the higher end of the market so much more is expected. Visitors want different experiences and higher service standards.

Mr Speaker in the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1 "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens..."

 

The Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board has served us well. My government is grateful for the many achievements of the Board and to all who contributed to the success of tourism in these islands.

 

But Mr. Speaker, the time has come to future-proof the destination for sustainability, competitiveness stakeholder synergy and inclusive growth. To better serve the needs of our visitors and destination partners, my government is transitioning to a Destination Management Organisation (DMO).

 

The DMO is designed to integrate the marketing and management of the entire TCI to maximize participation and returns for all stakeholders.

 

To ensure the highest quality assurance standard, safety, and compliance, my government has put in place an arm’s length but supporting institution - the Tourism Regulation Department. It will operate as a department within the Ministry of Tourism. It will: 

  • Formulate guidelines and prescribe measures for sustainable tourism.
  • Regulate all tourism activities and services.
  • Register, license, and grade all sustainable tourism and tourist-related properties, activities, and services; and
  • Develop and implement, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, criteria for standardization and classification of tourism facilities and services.

 

My government is determined to keep the TCI ahead of the competition by developing attractions, showcasing our culture, and promoting the best of our islands and our people.

 

My government is delivering for the people!  

HEALTHCARE

Mr. Speaker! Over the years, successive governments have spent millions on healthcare. This year is no different.

 

$84.6M or 20% of the budget is allocated to health. Despite the huge sums, our people have not always received value for money. That must change.

 

My government has engaged the services of experts to examine how the agreement with Inter Health Canada is being executed. This contract is both very complicated and long-term in nature. However, I have been advised that there are many positive actions that we can take to ensure that our people get the best value.  I will update the House once the report on the way forward is received.

 

As my government seeks to improve how InterHealth Canada serves our people, we are improving facilities and services such as:

  • Investing in state-of-the-art equipment such as MRI machines and CT Scanners to improve diagnostic services.
  • Upgrading Dental Clinics.
  • Adding new ambulances - two in Providenciales and one in North Caicos.

 

Mr. Speaker! At last, the TCI has its first mental health facility - the Centre of Hope.

My government is delivering for our people!

 

EDUCATION

Education is the vehicle to take our people to prosperity. My government is developing an environment that will encourage and facilitate lifelong learning.

$48.9 million or 12% of the budget has been allocated to primary, secondary, tertiary, and special needs education.

My government is putting its money where its mouth is.

 

Proposed amendments to the universities, colleges, and training institutes ordinance to improve oversight and accountability of institutes of higher learning in the TCI will be tabled in the House of Assembly shortly.

 

Our special needs school community will see major improvements.

 

My government is hiring experts who will advise on the systems and procedures for the new Special Needs school being constructed to ensure best practices. The building is being retrofitted into a modern and well-equipped facility and qualified persons who will deliver the best instruction to students are being hired.

 

My government is delivering for our people!

 

YOUTH AFFAIRS:

Mr Speaker!  My government is improving youth engagement through innovative and engaging youth programs that will assist in the mental and emotional development of the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Some of these programs are TCI National Cadets and mentorship programs.

 

SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

Mr Speaker! Sports have the potential to transform communities and society, improve the health and well-being of young people, and create economic opportunities.

 

My government is: 

  • Investing in sports development programmes, youth leagues such as the Police Action League, and Inter School sports seasons which will start and the end of this month.
  • Refurbishing and improving community parks across the TCI.
  • Expanding community access to modern sports facilities with repair works to South Caicos Parade Grounds and the completion of the Grand Turk Sports Complex and Shelter.
  • Opening the Felix Morley Community Centre to host a series of activities (boxing, dance, martial arts, basketball, football, rugby, computer and classes).
  • Providing training for all coaches, PE teachers and National Federation personnel.
  • Encouraging the health and wellness of the nation through the Let’s Move TCI Campaign.

 

My government is delivering for young people!

 

SOCIAL SERVICES

Mr Speaker, subscribing to Mahatma Gandhi’s statement: “The measure of a society is how it treats its weakest members.”  My government is ensuring that the basic needs of all our people are adequately met. That is why my government has:

  • Increased Social Assistance to $500 monthly per child for up to three children per household. Adults now get $1,000 monthly per household, up from $120.
  • More than doubled Foster Care Assistance to $300 weekly per child for up to three children per household.
  • The programmes will be tested to ensure that the neediest persons benefit.  In the future, adjustments many be necessary including to the qualifying criteria.

 

My government is delivering for the vulnerable!

 

HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT

My government believes that for a country to be successful, wide-scale human capital development and proper compensation are important.  We are starting with the public service and expect that the private sector, particularly those who have not fully subscribed to the principles of corporate citizenship, will follow suit. 

As the government continues to make significant investments in their remuneration, benefits, tools and training, public servants must be accountable to the people. Staff will be assessed to ensure that they are carrying out the roles for which they are contracted. A new staff appraisal system heavily focused on performance and delivery will be rolled out in the 4th quarter.

A new Director of Business Transformation will lead the effort to improve delivery across the public service and drive innovation.

 

e-GOVERNMENT

e-Government is a major focus of my government.  Police records can now be delivered within a week, and work is being undertaken to reduce that to hours.

This year my government will introduce:

  • A digital Human Resources system
  • Road safety system
  •   e-Cabinet using digital solutions to facilitate cabinet meetings, improve information sharing and ease of communicating cabinet decisions to citizens.
  • Digital Border Management system and numerous other system improvements across government.
  • e-Procurement will allow greater access and innovation in bidding and other tendering procedures.

My government is delivering on its e-Government mandate!

 

IMPROVING THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

As we move to diversify the economy, we have to improve the ease of doing business and recalibrate the incentive scheme. 

  • For Foreign/Domestic Investments, we are examining the thresholds at which incentives may be considered; including whether they ought to be given only to  projects that fall within the national priority sector(s).
  • A national linkages programme to strengthen the local private sector and maximise the benefits from foreign direct investment will be established. By creating strong connections, we will optimise the spill over to the local economy.
  • Create enhanced incentives and special investment regimes (up to 100% relief) for specific projects in the family islands; businesses solely owned by Belongers; projects in economic zones; and development priority areas.
  • Incorporate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a focus on sustained, inclusive economic growth and the empowerment of women.
  • Foster collaboration and promote public-private dialogue to improve the business environment, encourage investment and facilitate growth.

 

CRIME AND SECURITY
Mr Speaker! Over the last year and a half, we have seen spikes and dips in criminal activities particularly in some parts of Providenciales. My government will not allow criminals to destroy the society we are creating. Everyone should feel safe, secure and have full access to justice.

 

Mr. Speaker! Irregular migration and easy access to powerful firearms are major contributor to crime and violence.

 

My government has spent millions on border, internal security, and on the modernisation of our justice system.

 

My government has enacted historic and new legislation, is building new national security structures, hardening and expanding our local security forces.

  • Millions are being spent to upgrade the human, physical, technical, and investigative capacity of the Royal TCI Police Force.
  • More personnel including members of the TCI Regiment are on frontline duties, especially in communities challenged by drugs and gang violence.
  • Additional CCTV camera systems are being installed.
  • A new Drugs, Firearms and Anti-Gang Unit has been established with specialist detectives from the UK. They will work with our local Force and build our local capability to dismantle violent gangs.
  • Significant investment in technology, the investigative capacity and operations of the police, communication and cyber forensic systems.
  • The new anti-gang and gun laws

give our police the legal authority to investigate, stop and search, detain and break up gang activities.

  • Persons convicted of gang, drugs or gun crimes will spend a longer time in jail.
  • My government continues to work with our international partners to increase aerial and sea surveillance. 
  • The UK has committed to fund additional air surveillance assets to support our efforts to enable full marine domain awareness across all of our islands.
  • My government is deepening alliances with our neighbours and sharing intelligence that will help to protect the TCI.

 

Mr. Speaker! Violence has shaken too many communities and destroyed too many families.

 

Too many decent law-abiding citizens are living in fear.

 

My government is working to defeat those who continue to disrupt the peace and safety of our communities.

 

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE

As the government seeks to communicate effectively and with transparency both internally and to the public, we have developed a communications strategy and policy that will be submitted to Cabinet for ratification in the coming weeks.

 

LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

Mr. Speaker! Last year, we had a robust legislative agenda to support the policies and programmes my government is implementing. As the Throne Speech communicates the government’s legislative plan for the year, I would like to provide an in-exhaustive list of new laws and amendments, that are on the legislative agenda for consideration by Cabinet and will require full public and parliamentary engagement as we seek to make the lives of every TC Islander better.

 

These include among others:

Premier’s Office:

  1. Constitution (Amendment) Order;
  2. Contractor’s Licensing Bill
  3. Retiring Allowance (Amendment) Bill;

 

Education

  1. National Health Insurance (Amendment) Bill;
  2. National Insurance (Amendment) Bill;
  3. Education (Amendment) Bill;
  4. Community College (Amendment) Bill;

 

Tourism

  1. Gaming Control (Amendment) Bill;
  2. Gaming Machines (Amendment) Bill;

 

Finance

  1. Business Licensing (Amendment) Bill;
  2. Real Estate Licensing Bill

 

Immigration

  1. Immigration Bill
  2. Asylum Bill
  3. Border Force Bill
  4. Airports Authority (Amendment) Bill

 

Home Affairs

  1. Renewable Energy Bill
  2. Road Safety (Amendment) Bill

 

Tourism

  1. Dogs Control (Amendment) Bill;
  2. Maritime Liabilities Bill
  3. Wrecks and Salvage Bill

 

Health

  1. Health Regulation (Amendment) Bill
  2. Health Professions (Amendment) Bill

 

National Security, Legal and Law Enforcement

  1. Police Force Bill
  2. Jury Bill
  3. Witness Protection Bill

 

Attorney General’s Chambers

  1. Crown Land (Amendment) Bill

 

CONCLUSION

Mr. Speaker! My government has a solid record of achievements.

 

One by one, my government is delivering on the commitments we made in the People’s Contract. Vision 2040 and the People’s Contract are the blueprints we will follow in our quest to give every islander and resident a chance for a better life.

My government is laying the foundations for prosperity. We want our people to imagine a future that is safe, progressive, and prosperous.

My government wants the hope of our people to be fired up by the progress they see every day.

Together let us use our strength, our creativity, and innovation to build a diversified and prosperous economy that benefits all.

Together we can build stronger families, stronger communities and a stronger and more prosperous Turks and Caicos Islands.

Together we can make our dream a reality and together we can fuel that beacon called hope that will lead us to prosperity and plenty.

Thank you!

May God bless each of you and bless our beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.

 


FORECAST FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

GENERAL SITUATION: A WEAK RIDGE OF HIGH PRESSURE WILL DOMINATE THE WEATHER OVER THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS MAINTAINING MOSTLY STABLE CONDITIONS AND LIGHT TO MODERATE WINDS ACROSS THE ISLANDS TODAY. 

SPECIAL WARNINGS: HURRICANE LEE WILL GENERATE LARGE SEA SWELLS OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS, LEADING TO HAZARDOUS BOATING AND BEACHING CONDITIONS THROUGHOUT THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS. BEACHGOERS ARE TO REFRAIN FROM ENTERING THE WATERS AND SMALL CRAFT OPERATORS ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO REMAIN IN PORT…RESIDENTS ARE REMINED TO REMAIN HYDRATED AND TO AVOID PROLONGED SUN EXPOSURE DUE TO HIGH DAYTIME TEMPERATURES. 

 

ALL AREAS 

WEATHER: PARTLY TO MOSTLY SUNNY AND HOT WITH QUICK PASSING SHOWERS…BECOMING FAIR AND WARM WITH A PASSING SHOWER TONIGHT. 

ADVISORY:            SMALL CRAFT OPERATORS SHOULD REMAIN IN PORT 

WINDS:  NORTH TO NORTHEAST AT 10 TO 15 KNOTS 

SEAS:      3 FEET OR LESS NEARSHORE OR IN SHELTERED AREAS…SEAS WILL BUILD UP TO 9 FEET IN NORTHEASTERLY TO EASTERLY SWELLS 

  

DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE          90°F        32°C         

OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE      80°F        28°C         

 

SUNSET: 6:56 PM  

NEXT HIGH TIDE:  6:09 PM (2.6 FT)                    

NEXT LOW TIDE:   12:38 AM TUE       (1.0 FT)                    

 

EXTENDED FORECAST FOR THE NEXT TWO DAYS: WINDS WILL INCREASE SLIGHTLY ACROSS THE ISLANDS AS THE PRESSURE GRADIENT TIGHTENS DUE TO HURRICANE LEE TRACKING EAST OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS. BOATERS AND BEACHGOERS ARE URGED TO REMAIN IN PORT AND TO REFRAIN FROM ENTERING THE WATERS DUE TO LARGE SWELLS AND DEADLY RIP CURRENTS ALONG WITH ROUGH SURF BEING PRODUCED BY HURRICANE LEE 

 

FORECAST FOR TUESDAY       

WEATHER: PARTLY SUNNY AND BREEZY WITH PASSING SHOWERS POSSIBLE…BECOMING MOSTLY FAIR AND BREEZY AT NIGHT WITH THE SLIGHT CHANCE OF ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS. CHANCE OF RAIN IS 20%. 

ADVISORY: BOATERS SHOULD REMAIN IN PORT.     

WINDS: NORTHWEST TO NORTH AT 15 TO 20 KNOTS 

SEAS: 4 TO 6 FEET NEARSHORE, BUILDING UP TO 7 TO 11 FEET IN NORTHEASTERLY TO EASTERLY SWELL 

 

SUNRISE: 6:34 AM 

SUNSET: 6:55 PM 

LOW TIDE:   12:38 AM (1.0 FT)                              12:21 PM (0.7 FT) 

HIGH TIDE:  06:17 AM (2.3 FT)                               06:50 PM (2.6 FT) 

 

FORECAST FOR WEDNESDAY 

WEATHER: PARTLY SUNNY AND BREEZY WITH THE CHANCE OF ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS. CHANCE OF RAIN IS 30%. MOSTLY FAIR AND BREEZY AT NIGHT WITH A PASSING SHOWER OR TWO POSSIBLE. 

ADVISORY: BOATERS SHOULD REMAIN IN PORT.     

WINDS: WEST TO NORTHWEST AT 15 TO 20 KNOTS 

SEAS: 4 TO 7 FEET NEARSHORE, BUILDING UP TO 12 FEET IN NORTHEAST SWELL 

 

SUNRISE: 6:35 AM 

SUNSET: 6:54 PM 

LOW TIDE:   01:15 AM (1.0 FT)                              01:05 PM (0.7 FT) 

HIGH TIDE:  07:01 AM (2.3 FT)                              07:27 PM (2.6 FT) 

 

TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK:  

ACTIVE SYSTEMS: AT 11AM HURRICANE LEE WAS LOCATED ABOUT 365 MILES NORTH OF THE NORTHERN LEEWARD ISLANDS MOVING NORTHWEST AT 8 MILES PER HOUR WITH MAXIMUM WINDS OF 120 MILES PER HOUR...AND TROPICAL STORM MARGOT WAS LOCATED ABOUT 1245 MILES NORTHWEST OF THE CABO VERDE ISLANDS MOVING NORTH AT 10 MILES PER HOUR WITH MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS OF 70 MILES PER HOUR. 

  1. EASTERN TROPICAL ATLANTIC: A WEAK AREA OF LOW PRESSURE LOCATED SEVERAL HUNDRED MILES WEST-SOUTHWEST OF THE CABO VERDE ISLANDS HAS A LOW (10 PERCENT) CHANCE OF FORMATION OVER THE NEXT SEVEN DAYS.
  2. EASTERN AND CENTRAL TROPICAL ATLANTIC: A TROPICAL WAVE LOCATE OVER THE FAR EASTERN TROPICAL ATLANTIC BETWEEN THE CABO VERDE ISLANDS AND THE WEST COAST OF AFRICA HAS A MEDIUM (60 PERCENT) CHANCE OF FORMATION OVER THE NEXT SEVEN DAYS.

 

 


CATEGORY 5 LEE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN ITS INTENSITY.

...POWERFUL CATEGORY 5 LEE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN ITS INTENSITY...

...DANGEROUS BEACH CONDITIONS EXPECTED TO DEVELOP AROUND THE

WESTERN ATLANTIC THROUGH EARLY NEXT WEEK..

AT 5:00 AM EDT THE CENTER OF HURRICANE LEE WAS LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 17.8 NORTH, LONGITUDE 53.5 WEST, OR 630 MILES EAST OF THE NORTHERN LEEWARD ISLANDS. LEE IS MOVING TOWARD THE WEST-NORTHWEST NEAR 14 MPH. ON THE FORECAST TRACK, LEE IS EXPECTED TO PASS WELL TO THE NORTH OF THE NORTHERN LEEWARD ISLANDS, THE VIRGIN ISLANDS, AND PUERTO RICO OVER THE WEEKEND AND INTO EARLY NEXT WEEK.

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS HAVE INCREASED TO NEAR 165 MPH WITH HIGHER GUSTS. LEE IS A CATEGORY 5 HURRICANE ON THE SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE WIND SCALE. FLUCTUATIONS IN INTENSITY ARE EXPECTED AFTER THAT, BUT LEE IS FORECAST TO REMAIN A POWERFUL MAJOR HURRICANE THROUGH EARLY NEXT WEEK.

MARINERS AND RESIDENTS SHOULD CLOSELY MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF THIS SYSTEM AS SEAS WILL BE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED BY LATE SATURDAY/EARLY SUNDAY.

...MARGOT FORECAST TO STRENGTHEN...

AT 5:00 AM EDT, THE CENTER OF TROPICAL STORM MARGOT WAS LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 17.4 NORTH, LONGITUDE 30.8 WEST OR 460 MILES WEST-NORTHWEST OF THE CABO VERDE ISLANDS. MARGOT IS MOVING TOWARD THE WEST-NORTHWEST NEAR 40 MPH , AND THIS MOTION IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE THROUGH THE WEEKEND.

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS ARE NEAR 40 MPH WITH HIGHER GUSTS. GRADUAL STRENGTHENING IS EXPECTED DURING THE NEXT FEW DAYS, AND MARGOT IS FORECAST TO BECOME A HURRICANE OVER THE WEEKEND.