Tesla drivers are outraged due to them being locked out of the cars.
Dozens of owners posted on social media about seeing an error message on the mobile app that was preventing them from connecting to their vehicles.
Tesla chief executive Elon Musk personally responded to one complaint from a driver in South Korea, saying on Twitter: "Checking."
Mr Musk later said the app was coming back online.
The Tesla app is used as a key by drivers to unlock and start their cars.
Owners posted a multitude of complaints online about not being able to use their vehicles.
"I'm stuck an hour away from home because I normally use my phone to start [my] car," one owner tweeted.
About 500 users reported an error on the app at around 16:40 ET (21:40 GMT) on Friday, according to the outage tracking site DownDetector. Five hours later, there were just over 60 reports of an error.
"Apologies, we will take measures to ensure this doesn't happen again," Mr Musk tweeted.
The app is not the only way to access the cars though, Stuart Masson, editor of The Car Expert website, told the BBC.
"There will be a secondary mechanism to get in or out of the car beyond the app, the difficulty will come for drivers if they are not carrying it," he said.
"Technology makes things convenient, but relies on a server working 100% of the time. It's the same as leaving the house without my credit cards, expecting to pay for things with my smartphone. If we are reliant on one mechanism all the time, we can be caught out."
Professor David Bailey from the Birmingham Business School has written extensively on the automotive industry. He also drives a Tesla and experienced the outage on Friday.
"To some extent, Tesla is a bit of a victim of its own success," he told the BBC. "It encourages its customers to use the cutting edge technology it creates and sometimes that will go wrong.
"Although of course you can use a key to open the car too, the natural instinct of many Tesla drivers, who are buying one of the most high tech models in the market, is to rely on the technology."
Source - BBC
West Indies chase strong finish to mixed year
West Indies will hope to end the year the same manner in which they started, when they take on Sri Lanka in the first Test of the two-match series at Galle International Stadium here Sunday.
The Caribbean side pulled off a stunning 2-0 series win away to Bangladesh last February but results since then have been mixed. They have only three wins in eight Tests this year, losing three and drawing two.
The drawn Tests came on Sri Lanka’s tour of the Caribbean last March and with only a single win since then, captain Kraigg Brathwaite said making a strong start to the series would be critical, especially where the batting was concerned.
“You have to get 20 wickets to win a game, and you know our bowling unit has really been leading this team for the last couple months,” Brathwaite told reporters on Saturday.
“I think what is key is to have a good start. I think for the top order it is going to be crucial getting those big partnerships early, and runs on the board are key especially in the subcontinent.
“So I think a good first innings total is key for us as a team for us to obviously put pressure on the opponents.”
West Indies hold unflattering memories of their last tour here five years ago when they lost both Tests heavily in less than five days.
They went down by 72 runs in the first Test at Colombo before tea on the final day, after the fourth day was completely lost to rain, and were then flogged by an innings and six runs with a session left on the penultimate day of the second Test.
Spin proved their undoing then, accounting for the bulk of the wickets to fall as West Indies passed 250 just once.
Though acknowledging pacers still had a role to play, Brathwaite conceded spinners would perhaps be the biggest threat, especially based on pitch conditions.
“The pitch looks spin-friendly [and is] obviously quite dry. I’m not saying the pacers won’t get wickets but the spinners know their role and the guys are looking forward to the challenge,” Brathwaite explained.
“You can’t premeditate that the pitch will spin. It looks quite dry, but I think it is important as a bowling unit we don’t think too far ahead. I think the key for us and what we discussed is that once we build the pressure with dot balls, those dot balls will bring the wickets.
“The spinners are excited for the challenge. It won’t be easy. Obviously, Sri Lanka they are at home and obviously their batsmen play spin well so you know it’s going to be a challenge. But the guys are really looking forward to it.
“And the [spinners] are looking forward to leading. If it is a [spinning pitch], the guys are looking forward to leading the attack,” he added.
West Indies have included three specialist spinners in their touring squad – left-arm spinners Veeerasammy Permaul and Jomel Warrican, along with off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall.
Also included is off-spinner Roston Chase while Brathwaite also bowls occasional off-spin.
The match bowls off at 10 am (12:30 am Eastern Caribbean time).
SQUADS:
SRI LANKA – Dimuth Karunaratne (captain), Oshada Fernando, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Minod Bhanuka, Kamil Mishara, Roshane Silva, Ramesh Mendis, Chamika Karunaratne, Praveen Jayawickrema, Lasith Embuldeniya, Lakshan Sandakan, Suminda Lakshan, Suranga Lakmal, Vishwa Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Chamika Gunasekera.
WEST INDIES – Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kyle Mayers, Veerasammy Permaul, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Jeremy Solozano, Jomel Warrican.
SHONIA THOMAS-BEEN APPOINTED AS PERMANENT SECRETARY
The Office of the Deputy Governor is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Shonia Thomas-Been to the post of Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Premier and Public Policy.
For the past 20 years Mrs. Thomas-Been has held senior managerial roles in the private and public sector in the areas of accountancy, finance, investment, auditing, banking, and small business development.
Mrs. Thomas-Been rejoined the Civil Service in 2014 as a Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Investment and Trade.
She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Finance from the University of Cape Breton, Canada, with Dean’s List Honors for scholarly excellence, and was specially awarded for avidity in the field business entrepreneurship.
She also holds two Master’s degrees from the University of Durham, United Kingdom; one, a MSc. in Finance and Investment and the other a MBA with merit, with a dissertation focused on the critical success factors of entrepreneurship in the Turks and Caicos Islands, attaining a distinction in that area of research.
Her recent training and certification has centred on public private partnerships (PPPs), enterprise risk management, strategic economic diplomacy and the development and assessment of public policy.
In assuming the role Mrs. Thomas-Been stated: “I am honoured and extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.”
Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams in extending congratulations to Mrs. Thomas-Been stated: “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Mrs. Shonia Tomas-Been on her appointment to the post of Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Premier and Public Policy.
Mrs. Thomas-Been has done a stellar job in her previous role as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and I am certain will do well in leading the Office of the Premier and Public Policy going forward.
I wish her well on her promotion and look forward to working with her in this new capacity.”
PREMIER AND DEPUTY PREMIER MET WITH UK DIASPORA
The Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick and Deputy Premier Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders met with approximately 70 Turks and Caicos Islanders living in the United Kingdom on Saturday, 13 November 2021 in Manchester, United Kingdom.
The aim of the meeting was to advise the diaspora on Turks and Caicos Islands Government’s vision for 2040 and beyond, including projects ongoing and proposed; but also to hear from the diaspora, some of their concerns particularly as it relates to their return to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Among the concerns highlighted by the diaspora were:
· Access to better healthcare services and specialized medical care
· Greater special needs support and assistance
· Employment opportunities for returning students
· Ease of access to Government-issued documents
The Premier assured the group that the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) has already begun a review of TCI’s healthcare systems. TCIG has also allocated $300,000.00 to assist with out of school special needs support and to assist with assessments and overseas care of students with special needs.
The TCI delegation shared updates on investment opportunities for young professionals, post-degree job opportunities for returning students and financing for start-up businesses to support local investors and entrepreneurs through the Access to Finance initiatives which will be aimed at providing access to development financing for Turks and Caicos Islanders.
“My Government is aware that TC Islanders are currently unable to take advantage of investment opportunities due to a lack of access to capital. My Government is currently developing a fund which will grant access to financing for young entrepreneurs, and will poise TC Islanders in the best position for advantageous investment,” Premier Misick stated.
Students were urged to consider the potential for growth in underdeveloped sectors in the TCI, when choosing subject areas. Emphasis was placed on agriculture and other sectors including communications and information technology and the subsequent increase in job opportunities in those sectors with the impending establishment of the Communications Directorate and implementation of new e-government systems.
The Office of the Premier and Public Policy is in the process of establishing a diaspora register to gather information on the number of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad, location and area of study and/or skills training. The information compiled will be shared with various ministries to assist citizens’ transition and assimilation once home.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Government is committed to providing policies, programmes and favourable conditions that allow for Turks and Caicos Islanders who are returning home with degrees, job experience and training to benefit from gainful employment and leverage investment and business opportunities that will ultimately aid the development, diversification, strengthening and longevity of the TCI economy.
The Premier and Deputy Premier were joined by Honourable Shaun Malcolm MP, Honourable Kyle Knowles MP, Deputy Secretary and Head of Secretariat in the Office of the Premier and Public Policy, Mr Miquel Swann and Ms Denika Been, Executive Administrator for the Ministry of Finance Investment and Trade, Ms. Lareesa Robinson and Administrative Officer for the Office of the Premier and Public Policy, Mr Aaron Garland.
TCI observes World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) 2021
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) aims to increase awareness of global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and to encourage best practices among the general public, health care providers, farmers, animal health professionals and policy makers to avoid the further emergence and spread of drug-resistant infections.
The WAAW 2021 campaign calls on all stakeholders to recognize that everyone can be an Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness advocate/champion. Stakeholders are encouraged to spread awareness about what AMR is, share stories about its consequences, and demonstrate how the actions of individuals, families, professionals, and communities affect the spread of AMR.
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. Therefore, antimicrobials - agents that are critical tools for fighting diseases in humans, animals and plants including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics - become ineffective and infections persist in the body, increasing the risk of spread to others. As a result, infections are more difficult to treat and may lead to severe illness and death.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to threaten the effective prevention and treatment of an ever-increasing range of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi. The problem of AMR has become so threatening that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it as one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity. It therefore remains one of the most urgent threats to human health.
The WAAW will be observed during November 18th – 24th and will support a multisectoral One Health Approach with increased stakeholder commitment. Therefore, everyone can unite to improve antimicrobial use. The theme for WAAW 2020 for the human health sector is “Spread Awareness, Stop Resistance”. The slogan for 2021 ‘Antimicrobials: Handle with Care’ is applicable to all sectors.
The campaign objectives are as follows:
• To make AMR a globally recognized issue with engagement of all sectors - human, animal, plant and environment, a 'One Health approach'.
• To raise awareness of the need to protect antimicrobial effectiveness through vigilant and responsible use.
• To increase recognition of the roles that individuals, governments, civil society organizations and human, animal, environment and plant health as well as agriculture professionals must all play in tackling antimicrobial resistance.
• To encourage behaviour change towards prudent use of antimicrobials across all relevant sectors and convey the message that simple actions can make a big difference.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHHS), by way of its draft national action plan, continues to work with a team of health professionals from various sectors to tackle the very serious problem of AMR. Among other objectives of the plan, the MoHHS will seek to improve awareness and understanding of AMR, strengthen knowledge through surveillance and research, reduce the incidence of infection and improve the use of antimicrobial agents. Additionally, as a part of WAAW, the following events are being planned:
The radio programme Health Matters will focus on antimicrobial resistance on Monday, 22nd Nov 2021 on Radio Turks and Caicos (RTC)
Leaflet distribution to patients in the Pharmacies, Primary Health Care clinics and other healthcare facilities
Sharing of information on the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit’s Facebook page. (https://m.facebook.com/tcihealthpromotions)
Displaying information videos at the TCI Hospitals
Booths set up at TCI Hospitals to provide information
AMR presentations to be conducted in person and via online platforms to various schools and church groups across the islands.
IMF predicts economic growth of more than eight per cent for Jamaica
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Wednesday is predicting economic growth of more than eight per cent for Jamaica this year, but warned that while the economy is recovering, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic poses a significant risk that could lead to a more prolonged disruption of tourism, trade, and capital flow.
In a statement issued following the conclusion of the 2021 Article IV Mission, the Washington-based financial institution noted that tourism has rebounded to near 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels, despite two COVID-19 waves this year, and other sectors have picked up as well.
It said real gross domestic product (GDP) in the second quarter of this year was 14.2 per cent higher than the same quarter a year earlier.
“We project growth of 8¼ per cent in financial year 2021/22, moderating to 3.5 per cent in financial year 2022/23. But risks to the outlook are significant. The main risk is COVID-19.
“A third COVID-19 wave is abating, and vaccination has picked up pace, with one million people now having received at least one dose. But new COVID-19 waves in Jamaica or abroad could lead to a more prolonged disruption of tourism, trade, and capital flows,” the IMF said.
It said another risk is posed by the uncertain duration of global inflationary pressures.
“The sharp rise in world food and energy prices has helped boost year-on-year inflation to 8.2 per cent in September, well above the Central Bank’s target range of 4-6 per cent. Natural disasters continue to be an ever-present risk.
“On the other hand, a faster pace of vaccinations at home and abatement of the pandemic in Jamaica’s main tourism markets are upside risks.”
The IMF said that as the crisis recedes and the recovery advances Jamaica should restart debt reduction and rebuild buffers, given high susceptibility to external shocks and risks to debt sustainability.
“Policies should also focus on boosting growth which has been low in the last decades, enhancing institutions, and tackling the still high levels of poverty and crime,” it added.
The IMF said in the decade preceding the pandemic Jamaica made good progress in restoring macroeconomic and financial stability. It said aided by IMF financial support, the fiscal deficit was brought from 11 per cent of GDP in 2009 to a surplus; public debt fell from 142 per cent of GDP to 94 per cent and inflation and the current account deficit declined.
“Jamaica institutionalized hard-won fiscal discipline through a Fiscal Responsibility Law, moved to inflation targeting, allowed for greater exchange rate flexibility, and strengthened oversight of the financial system. These reforms are continuing,” the IMF said, noting that the recent passage of the amendments to the Bank of Jamaica Act and the legislation to establish a Fiscal Council are two of the latest achievements of the government’s ambitious reform programme.
It said that these improvements allowed Jamaica to implement a strong policy response, when it was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“An early lockdown in the Spring of 2020 helped contain the number of COVID-19 cases but the impact on the economy was severe, with real GDP shrinking by 10 per cent. To counter the social and economic effects of the pandemic, the government suspended the fiscal rule for one year and temporarily reduced the primary balance target from 6.5 to 3.5 per cent of GDP, increased spending on health and social protection and reduced the GCT rate.
“At the same time, the central bank injected liquidity and encouraged banks to put in place loan moratoria to provide temporary support to the private sector,” the IMF said, adding that the availability of buffers built-up pre-crisis and the calibrated policy response to the crisis ensured that, unlike in the past, the pandemic related shock was not followed by a fiscal, financial, or balance of payments crisis.
The IMF said that the government’s goal to reduce debt to 60 per cent of GDP by 2027/28 is appropriate.
“As a result of the crisis, public debt has increased to 109 per cent of GDP, and assurances that it will be brought down over time are important for investor confidence and preservation of macroeconomic stability.”
The IMF said lower debt and debt service payments would also create more fiscal space to mitigate contingent and long-term fiscal pressures including creating buffers for natural disasters.
It said that although the Financial Administration and Audit Act Regulations only require publication of a fiscal framework for the next four years, publication of a fiscal framework for a longer-term period that shows how the debt reduction will be achieved would further increase the credibility of the government’s target.
The IMF said that for the financial year, 2022/23, and in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Law, the government aims at an overall fiscal surplus of about 0.3 per cent of GDP, the same as in the financial year 2021/22.
It said that the impact of lower Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) dividends would be partly offset by lower interest payments.
Public debt and interest payments are expected to decline faster as the authorities pay down maturing bonds from the debt exchange operation of 2010 and 2013. Running fiscal surpluses of about one per cent of GDP in the financial year 2023/24 and beyond would ensure smooth progress to the debt target and avoid the need to raise the fiscal surplus much sharper in later years in order to meet the debt target.
The IMF said that rises in the wage bill risk crowding out other expenditure. It said the new public sector compensation system that will come into effect in during 2022/23 will make the wage structure more transparent, standardized, and equitable, and reduce the large differences in pay with the private sector.
“But it will also further add to the wage bill, which is already one of the highest in the region, reducing the room for other expenditure. A reassessment of the various roles and responsibilities of government, as well as increasing efficiency in the provision of public services, that would facilitate a reduction in the size of the public workforce, could help offset the costs of the new wage structure.
“At the same time, more resources are needed for infrastructure and other growth enhancing expenditures. Infrastructure needs are significant, and better infrastructure would help boost private sector growth. More resources are also needed to entrench disaster resilience.”
The IMF said that to reduce the high crime rate, which deters economic activity and investment, more spending on police and crime prevention may be needed.
“And in health care, the number of hospital beds and doctors per person is relatively low,” the IMF said.
Source-CMC
CWC Announces ICC 2022 Under-19 World Cup Itinerary
Following is the schedule for the 2022 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in the Caribbean announced Wednesday:
SCHEDULE
January 14:
West Indies v Australia – Guyana National Stadium
Sri Lanka v Scotland – Everest Cricket Club
January 15:
Canada v UAE – Conaree Cricket Centre
India v South Africa – Guyana National Stadium
Ireland v Uganda – Everest Cricket Club
Pakistan v PNG – Queens Park Oval
January 16:
Bangladesh v England – Warner Park Cricket Stadium
Afghanistan v Zimbabwe – Diego Martin Sporting Complex
January 17:
West Indies v Scotland – Warner Park Cricket Stadium
Australia v Sri Lanka – Conaree Cricket Centre
January 18:
England v Canada – Warner Park Cricket Stadium
South Africa v Uganda – Queens Park Oval
Afghanistan v PNG – Diego Martin Sporting Complex
January 19:
Australia v Scotland – Conaree Cricket Centre
India v Ireland – Brian Lara Cricket Academy
January 20:
England v UAE – Warner Park Cricket Stadium
Bangladesh v Canada – Conaree Cricket Centre
Pakistan v Afghanistan – Brian Lara Cricket Academy
Zimbabwe v PNG – Diego Martin Sporting Complexo
January 21:
West Indies v Sri Lanka – Conaree Cricket Centre
South Africa v Ireland – Brian Lara Cricket Academy
January 22:
Bangladesh v UAE – Warner Park Cricket Stadium
India v Uganda – Brian Lara Cricket Academy
Pakistan v Zimbabwe – Queens Park Oval
Jan. 25 to Feb. 4:
Plate and Super League – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Coolidge Cricket Ground, Brian Lara, Stadium, Queens Park Oval, Diego Martin Sporting Complex
February 1:
1st Semi-Final – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground
February 2:
2nd Semi-Final – Coolidge Cricket Ground
February 5:
Final – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground
Source-CMC
Amazon stop accepting Visa credit cards in UK
Amazon will stop accepting Visa credit cards issued in the UK from 19 January, the online retail giant has said.
It said the move was due to high credit card transaction fees but said Visa debit cards would still be accepted.
Visa said it was "very disappointed that Amazon is threatening to restrict consumer choice in the future".
Amazon said: "The cost of accepting card payments continues to be an obstacle for businesses striving to provide the best prices for customers."
The online retailer said costs should be going down over time due to advances in technology, "but instead they continue to stay high or even rise".
An Amazon spokesperson said the dispute was to do with "pretty egregious" price rises from Visa over a number of years with no additional value to its service.
Amazon is offering £20 for Prime customers to switch from using Visa to an alternative payment method, and £10 for other customers.
Visa said in a statement it was "very disappointed that Amazon is threatening to restrict consumer choice in the future. When consumer choice is limited, nobody wins."
It said it had "a long-standing relationship with Amazon" and that it was trying to resolve the situation so customers would be able to use Visa credit cards with Amazon UK.
Amazon declined to say how much Visa charges the retailer to process transactions made on credit cards.
Visa also declined to comment though it claimed that on average it takes less than 0.1% of the value of a purchase.
Source-BBC
Trinidad and Tobago sign contract for country’s largest natural gas development
Trinidad and Tobago Wednesday signed an agreement allowing for one of the largest natural gas developments to be undertaken in the country estimated at more than one billion US dollars.
The Manatee Production Sharing Contract with Shell Trinidad and Tobago Limited and Shell Trinidad and Tobago Resources SRL (Shell) is in respect to the shallow-water field that straddles the maritime boundary of Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela.
The Manatee field has a surface area of 48.35 square kilometres with reserves of 2.712 trillion cubic feet of gas.
Addressing the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley said that the project will be one of the largest natural gas developments to be undertaken in the country. He said based on the development concept, the operating and capital expenditure is estimated at US$1.8 billion.
“The upstream activity that will be generated by the project will create opportunities for the domestic energy service industry and other service providers,” Rowley said, noting that the Manatee field, forms a part of the Loran- Manatee cross-border field, with Loran being located in the marine area of Venezuela.
He said the Loran-Manatee reservoir has an estimated resource of 10.04 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of which 2.712 tcf is within the Manatee field.
He said that on August 16, 2010, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela executed a Unitisation Agreement for the Exploitation and Development of the Loran-Manatee field.
“An absence of urgency and no definitive commitment to making the necessary investment among the various interested parties saw this proven resource remaining dormant as though stranded,” Rowley said, adding that two countries alter agreed to the independent development by each government of the field within the Loran-Manatee cross-border, that falls within its marine area.
He said by government to government agreement dated October 15, 2019, the Loran Manatee Unitisation Agreement was terminated, delinking the development of the Manatee field from the Loran field.
“While the imposition of United States sanctions may have temporarily derailed our cross-border initiative, this situation is not expected to last indefinitely,” Rowley said, adding that the decision to proceed independently on the development of the cross-border fields created the opportunity for both the government as resource owner and Shell as contractor to monetize what would be one of the country’s largest natural gas fields to date.
He said in an August 19, 2019 agreement with Shell for the extension of the term of Block 6, it was agreed that separate terms would apply for any petroleum production derived from the commercial development of any field in the Manatee)portion of the Contract Area, subject to mutual agreement of the parties.
Rowley said pursuant to the terms of the agreement, Shell was encouraged and requested the opportunity to initiate negotiations to continue its appraisal and pre-sanction activities which were necessary to progress the commercial development of the Manatee portion of Block 6.
“Today’s event is the culmination of the negotiations between the Ministry (Of Energy and Energy related industries) and Shell and the subsequent approval by government. It signifies this government’s ongoing commitment and action to meet domestic natural gas requirements and our resourcefulness in overcoming obstacles.”
Rowley said that the production sharing contract (PSC) for Manatee is for a period of 25 years.
“Preliminary estimates indicate that natural gas production could start as early as 2025, with an initial production of up to 350 mmscf per day, before ramping up to as much as 700 mmscf per day. In considering our current proven reserves of natural gas and the size of the many discoveries of new fields the significance of this development will be fully appreciated in Trinidad and Tobago,” Rowley said.
But he told the ceremony that the parties do not have to wait until 2025 before we see the financial benefits accruing from the PSC.
“A suite of annual charges are payable within 10 days of the effective date of the contract and thereafter within the first 10 days of the contract year. These include an administrative charge of US$300,000 increasing at four per cent per annum, training and research, and development contributions of US$150,000 per annum increasing at six per cent annually until the start of production, when contributions will equal 0.25 per cent of the value of the contractor’s share of profit petroleum. “
Rowley said that there are also a one-time technical bonus of US$200,000 to the Ministry, an annual scholarship contribution of US$100,000 per annum increasing at six per cent per annum and a signature bonus of US$15 million.
He said in keeping with the terms of the PSC, Shell is required to comply with the government’s local content policy which requires the contractor to maximize to the satisfaction of the Minister the level of usage of local goods and services and employment of nationals.
“However, Shell needs no reminder as the company has demonstrated its commitment to local content and local value added through its community engagement initiatives and its close partnership with industry, government, and other local stakeholders. I expect that this custom will continue.”
Rowley said Shell has and continues to be an invaluable partner to Trinidad and Tobago in the development of the upstream sector and in cross-border initiatives with the government of Venezuela. He said while the latter has been temporarily suspended, “we are hopeful for re-engagement with the Venezuelan government when the environment permits and would welcome Shell’s renewed interest as a partner.
“Our relationship is a partnership which is based on equity, is mutually beneficial and has grown from strength to strength. Shell is a key player in the commercial restructuring of Atlantic LNG, and also in the development of the country’s first utility scale solar project.
“We look forward to your continued participation in the domestic energy sector and welcome your commitment to securing Trinidad and Tobago’s energy future as we transition to a low carbon economy.”
Rowley told the ceremony that the last two years in the domestic energy sector have been challenging but the country is slowly recovering.
“We had turned the corner when coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic struck. This had the effect of dampening upstream activity which resulted in the delay in the implementation of new upstream projects and as a consequence a reduced gas supply. Both the downstream and LNG were impacted. “Overall gas supply and international market conditions saw a number of petrochemical plants being taken offline, and Train 1 was negatively impacted. The shareholders are engaged in discussions with a view to making a determination of the future of Train 1 by the end of the first quarter calendar year 2022.”
But he said in the interim there have been bright spots. The Canadian-based Touchstone Exploration Inc. has continued to make new discoveries of oil and gas and that BHP Block 3a Ruby/Delaware project came on stream in May 2021, followed by Shell’s Block 5c Barracuda project and bpTT’s Matapal field. Among other developments.
“On implementation, these gas projects will help in alleviating the current natural gas concerns of the domestic downstream industry and the LNG producers.
“However, the key to reducing or eliminating any gas shortfall in the medium term is the approval of the current unsanctioned projects. The government is engaging the upstream companies on the approval of the unsanctioned projects and we are prepared to facilitate the companies to achieve this objective”.
Rowley said that his recent meeting with oil executives in London “leave us very optimistic that more projects of current interest will be sanctioned as we go forward into the near and medium term”.
He said that natural gas projections show that gas production will steadily increase to 2024, then undergo a brief decline before rebounding in the 2026/2027 period, hence the need to accelerate the approval of unsanctioned projects.
“During the period 2026/2027, Shell’s Manatee and BHP deep-water projects are projected to come on stream. These projects together have the potential to supply in excess of 1.0 bcf per day of natural gas in the period beyond 2026, for the life of the projects,” Rowley said.
He said while the energy sector will continue to be the mainstay of the economy of Trinidad and Tobago, his administration is mindful of the need to transition to a low carbon economy.
“It is a journey that we intend to pursue and in alignment with goals and objectives of our energy stakeholders. As a valued stakeholder, the government looks forward to the collaboration with Shell and all others on the country’s energy transition.”
CMC
Ministerial Statement by Hon.Otis Morris
Ministerial Statement by Hon. Otis Morris
Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, Energy & Utilities, Broadcasting, and Telecommunications Commission
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thou faithfulness.
A pleasant good morning to you Mr. Speaker, my esteemed colleagues in this honorable house, and persons listening by way of radio.
It is indeed a pleasure for me to rise today on this occasion and bring remarks and updates on the good work of the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the difference we are making in the lives of Turks and Caicos Islanders.
" Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted".
Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer condolences to all our mourning families throughout Turks and Caicos, and in particular to the families of the late Elva Williams, Clarence Simmons and Mrs. Estell Williams, of Grand Turk. My prayer is that God gives you the strength to comfort you in the days ahead.
Mr. Speaker over the month there has been a number of initiatives of which I would like to bring to your attention.
Energy & Utilities
The Energy & Utilities Department continues to make significant and opportunistic strides, geared at making TCI and its utilization of energy a better place to live and work.
- Renewal Energy Bill
Which is being led by the Department, with the support of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, Energy & Utilities, Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, Ministry of Infrastructure and the Premier’s office. We are all committed to the successful passage of this Bill as Clean Energy is everyone’s business. The Bill will be a standalone Bill given its significance, providing governance for distribution, sales and regulations of the industry.
Mr. Speaker we continue to engage our leading provider of energy, Fortis TCI, who recently hosted the first ever Turks & Caicos Energy Forum, at the Shore Club, Providenciales. The Forum was a virtual and limited in-person conference highlighting “The Future of Energy in the Turks & Caicos Islands”, and feature key speakers from industry.
Mr. Speaker, I had the esteemed pleasure to participate and bring remarks to the Parliamentary Observatory on Climate Change and Just Transition (OPCC) organized by the Economic Commission for America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), on November, 9th, 2021. The Side Event of COP26, is an initiative carried out jointly by parliamentary leaders from various countries in Latin America and the Caribbean and from other regions of the world with the aim of constituting a tool for shared information on status of environmental/energy legislation and discussion in the region parliamentary cooperation so the law makers can review and pass legislation relevant to the just transition to low-carbon economics. The meeting received participation from representatives of the United Kingdom, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay, Bolivia, British Virgin Islands, Curacao, Montserrat, Columbia, Turks & Caicos, Costa Rico, and Guatemala. A joint statement was signed by all participating countries. Mr. Speaker the Turks & Caicos has taken bold steps towards supporting the Parliamentary Observation with the development of the TCI Vision 2040; the People’s Plan for Progress; Transforming TCI through inclusive growth (2021); the development of TCI Climate Change Policy, drafting of Environment & Energy Policies. In the TCI we support global initiatives, and we act locally. Mr. Speaker, we will continue to update this forum on development of these very important policies in due course.
Gender & Equality
During the month of October which commemorated Domestic Violence awareness month, The Gender Affairs Department developed new promotional material such as, pamphlets, (English Spanish, French), presentations were delivered to students throughout the TCI on the different types and causes of domestic violence, human trafficking. Partnerships were forged with NGO groups such as the Soroptimists, and various Church Groups. The Department also was instrumental in the production of short video clips, videos, a domestic violence short film entitled Behind Closed Doors. Discussions were held with women on titled “Women with Stories” and Youth discussion on Identifying Domestic Violence in Relationships (target group age 16 – 25).
The Department of Gender Affairs within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, Broadcasting, Energy & Utilities and the Telecommunications Commission, joined the international community in the commemoration of International Men’s Day. Under the National Theme, Speak Up, Stand Up, get Involved-Men It’s Your Time, and hosted a two-day event highlighting the contribution of male role models throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The events held on November 9th and 10th predated International Men’s Day and was two-fold in their objectives. First seeking to engage men and boys in discussions which highlight the issues and challenges faced in their lives that are not often shared or adequately addressed. Secondly, our focus is also the engagement of role models in the society to increase their involvement and mentorship as we strive to identify solutions that will drive positive change where needed.
The feature event held was part of the commemoration and formal relaunch of the 100 Black Men TCI Chapter (fully affiliated with the 100 Black Men of America). This event was held in the form of a Worship Service on Tuesday, November 9th, at 7:00 pm at Abundant Life Ministries. Then on Wednesday, November 10th, the formal re-launching of the 100 Black men ceremony took place at Beaches Turks and Caicos, with Guest Speaker for both occasions being the internationally renowned pastor and author Dr. Jamal Bryant who shared his leadership and passion with attendees.
International Men’s Day is a global celebration which aims to celebrate the positive values men contribute to the world, their families and the community at large. To culminate the activities, the Department of Gender Affairs in collaboration with Health and Advocacy Unit, and the Department of Youth Affairs will host an International Men’s Day walk on Saturday, November 20th, 2021 commencing at 6 a.m., the route from the Lester Williams Park on to Governors Beach, Grand Turk. Please come out and support this important event.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
Mr. Speaker, the Ministries of Home Affairs, Social Development, Education, Immigration, Police, Ministry of Health and the Governor’s Office has been collaboratively engaged on the issue of Child-Safety and Protection. Meetings have commenced to discuss working collaboratively in the best interest of the child from all aspects of survival to providing preferential support to children in need of care and protection who come into care with Department of Social Development. Some critical areas of the discussions include:
- Processing and providing legal documents to “Wards of the State” including passports, birth certificates, status cards, free-lance work permits;
- registration into public schools; and
- Training on protocols for institution, associations, clubs, etc. on dealing with adolescents after school programs.
The Ministry and the Department of Social Development will continue the Multi-agency meetings hosted by the Governor’s office where we are all able to share successes and challenges in our Departments/Ministries in terms of Child Safeguarding and projects we have been doing to promote this topic.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Social Development Department in partnership with UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, as part of our annual work plan is currently producing Billboards and PSA Videos on Child protection matters. These communication and awareness raising initiatives will be completed by end of November 2021.
Radio Turks & Caicos
Mr. Speaker, Radio Turks & Caicos has recently enhanced it programming and have gained some traction from the most recent addition of “people’s program” the famous Expressions. The program kicked off to a great start and was a welcomed additions to the lineup of programmes just in time for Christmas and the Holiday Season. Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to congratulate the team at RTC and Flow for another very popular series of morning talk shows, the “Flow in the Morning” breakfast slots, showcasing, our very own talent as hosts to these shows. The feedback has been tremendous, as the topics of discussions are touching on key topical issues impacting our lives, here in the Turks & Caicos Islands.
Department of Motor Vehicles
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Motor Vehicles, recently launched a License Plate Drive, on November 9th, 2021. It is expected that this exercise will continue every Tuesday, until the end of the year. Mr. Speaker the goal is to allow persons to come in and collect their license plates, in order to become regularized on the streets. Mr. Speaker, while there are still some plates not ready for collections, there are an excessive amount awaiting collection. I am employing the public to follow the notices from the Department of Motor Vehicle identifying the days when persons can collect their license plates that are ready for collection. Mr. Speaker there are over 3000 plates ready for collection by the general public and measures are in place to avoid overcrowding.
The Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation
Mr. Speaker the Department continue to realize improvements in its operations and management, and recently celebrated at the end of October, Prisons’ Week, where appreciation was shown to officers working in the Prison, as well as former officers for their commitment over the years. Activities ranged from sporting events, award dinner and team building activities. The week was deemed a success, and further concrete the relationship building efforts in the restructuring of the Prison. Mr. Speaker, rehabilitation programs have restarted, and plans are in motion to expand on these programs. Training programs for the officers continue, and morale levels are at an all time high. Mr. Speaker, during my visits to the prison since assuming responsibility for the facility, I can attest to the fact that the inmates are in a better space mentally and emotionally. I would like to thank the staff and Management at the prison for all the good work they are doing, as you hold one of the most challenging jobs one can experience. Continue to do well!!
Mr. Speaker, I would like to conclude now, by thanking my team for the exemplary work they do. Mr. Speaker I would also like to welcome to our Ministry Mr. Fredrico Johnson, in the role of Deputy Permanent Secretary, and to Ms. Michelle Fulford who has moved on to another stage of her professional career. Thank you, Ms. Fulford, for your support to our team.
Thank you Mr. Speaker for your indulgence and a special thank you to my constituents in ED1. May God continue to bless these lovely Turks & Caicos Islands.