Boat Access Restriction – Grace Bay
The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) hereby advises that a large section of Grace Bay will be temporarily closed to all boat traffic on the morning of Saturday, 28 June 2025, from sunrise until 12:00 noon, to ensure the safety of participants in the “Race for the Conch” Eco-Sea Swim.
Affected Area:
As outlined on the accompanying map, the restricted area includes:
The boat channel near the Club Med dock in front of Rickie’s Flamingo Café.
Waters extending 100 meters offshore from:
The Club Med beach, and
The beaches in front of Ocean Club East, The Tuscany, and The Venetian, continuing eastward to Coral House.
Closure Timing:
• The western section, near the Club Med dock, is expected to be clear of swimmers by 10:00 a.m.
• The eastern section, including the boat channel and the area extending to Coral House, will remain active until 12:00 noon due to ongoing race events.
All vessels must avoid the designated swim race zones for the full duration of the event. Unauthorised boat traffic in these areas poses a serious safety hazard to swimmers.
This non-profit event has received official approval from both the TCI Sports Commission and the DECR.
We appreciate your cooperation in supporting a safe and successful event.
DECR Launches Public Survey on Marine Activity Management in the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) is inviting the public to take part in an online survey aimed at promoting the safe and sustainable management of marine activities across the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).
This initiative builds on a series of community workshops hosted by DECR in July 2024, which focused particularly on the use of jet skis and other marine recreational activities. The department is expanding its outreach to gather wider public input and ensure that all ocean users, residents, businesses, and visitors have a voice in shaping future marine policies.
The survey is part of a broader effort to implement Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in TCI. MSP is a globally recognised approach that uses scientific evidence and stakeholder input to balance the diverse uses of marine environments reducing conflicts and supporting sustainable development.
The deadline to complete the survey is 22 June 2025. Full details and access to the survey can be found on the flyer below.
Responses collected from the online survey, along with insights gathered during the 2024 workshops, will directly inform future planning and decision-making processes concerning marine activity in TCI waters.
Please note that all personal information gathered through the survey will be kept confidential and used solely by the TCI Government and the Blue Belt Programme. No data will be shared with third parties.
For assistance in completing the survey or for more information, please contact DECR at 1 649-338-4170 or environment@gov.tc
BET Awards' 25th anniversary: Doechii calls out Trump, Jamie Foxx testifies about near-death experience and more
BET Awards 2025 took place Monday night, with several reasons to celebrate.
This year's event commemorated 45 years of the network as well as 25 years of the award show. It also marked the 25th anniversary of music video show 106 & Park, which it honored with a special tribute that brought the audience back to the era with former hosts, a recreated set of the show and performances from Ashanti, Jim Jones, Keyshia Cole, Mya, T.I., B2K and Bow Wow.
Host Kevin Hart fooled throughout the night, joking he's banning after parties because "thats where stuff gets slippery" -- a dig at Diddy and his freak-offs. He also reunited the cast of Real Husbands of Hollywood, brought back his Chocolate Droppa alter-ego and parodied Usher's cherry-giving segment.
Among the distributed awards, SZA won best R&B/pop female artist, Kendrick Lamar took home album of the year, Chris Brown's "Residuals" won the viewer's choice award, and Doechii won best female hip-hop artist, taking time to "speak up for all oppressed people" after Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops against those protesting ICE's immigration raids.
Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg and Kirk Franklin received the Ultimate Icon award, with Snoop performing a medley of hits. Jamie Foxx, who also received the honor, thanked God, his family and Black people for their prayers during his near-death experience.
"I cannot even begin to express the love that I feel from everybody out there," he said, noting he watched the in memoriam thinking, "Man it could have been me."
"I don't know why I went through what I went through but I know my second chance, I'm not gonna turn down," he added, noting the Icon Award is the most important award he's ever received because it comes from his people.
The show also included performances from best new artist winner Leon Thomas, as well as Lil Wayne, GloRilla, Ledisi, Teyana Taylor and Playboi Carti.
Source-ABC
Statement by Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel- Selvaratnam:
Following the 2024 Supreme Court decision regarding 49 previously denied Islander Status applications, I wish to inform the public that I have granted Islander Status to the 49 individuals listed in Annex A.
Background
The individuals in question originally applied for Islander Status between 2016 and 2018. Their applications were reviewed by the Status Commission in 2021, at which point they were denied.
However, after legal challenges were brought forward, the Supreme Court found that the Status Commission acted outside of its jurisdiction by applying discretionary criteria. The Supreme Court ruled that the 49 applications had to be reconsidered using the legal standards that were in place at the time they were originally evaluated.
Reconsideration Process
The ruling of the Supreme Court confined the role of the Status Commission, in the reconsideration of the 49 applications, to whether the individuals met the statutory eligibility
requirements at the time of their original application.
In accordance with the Court’s ruling, I was required to consider each application fairly, without any presumption against a grant, and by applying the legislative regime that existed at the time of application. I also considered the applications on the basis that (a) there is no cap on the number of persons who may be granted Islander Status; (b) there is no points-based system under the prior legal regime; and (c) exceptional skills must be assessed as personal to the applicant and not by comparison to other applicants.
The Court further clarified that none of the considerations listed under section 4(7) of the 2021 Ordinance are prohibitive in nature. Accordingly, they do not serve as an automatic bar to the grant of Islander Status but are matters to which the Governor must have regard. The intention of the Ordinance was to create a pathway to Islander Status; not an impediment to its
achievement.
My Decision
As Governor, I am committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair decision-making. After carefully reviewing the applications against the applicable legal framework and the legal advice received, I am satisfied that the 49 individuals listed at Annex A have met the requirements to be granted Islander Status.
Looking Ahead: New Legal Framework
In response to the Supreme Court’s ruling, a new legal framework, the 2024 Turks and Caicos Islander Status Act was developed. It introduces a points-based system for Islander Status
applications, providing a clearly defined and transparent process for the evaluation of future applicants by the Status Commission. It outlines exactly what can and cannot be considered in assessing eligibility, with the aim of protecting the integrity of Islander Status while ensuring that all applicants are evaluated within a fair, robust and lawful process.
PREMIER MISICK MARKS GOVERNMENT'S FIRST 100 DAYS WITH KEY INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick and his government have concluded a series of events and initiatives commemorating their first 100 days in office. These activities, designed to highlight the government's early accomplishments, also serve to reinforce its unwavering commitment to transparency, keeping you, the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands, informed and involved in our service delivery and national development.
On May 18, 2025, marking 100 days since taking office, the Premier released a video message on his official social media platforms and the national broadcaster Radio Turks and Caicos. In his address, he outlined key achievements and reflected on his government’s strategic direction, stating:
"These achievements are not just checkboxes — they are building blocks. We are not claiming victory — we are claiming momentum. In our first 100 days, we've laid the groundwork for lasting change by leading with vision, discipline, and heart."
Demonstrating this ongoing momentum, Premier Misick appeared on the First Edition Show with host Cheryl-Ann Forman on May 27. They delved into matters of national importance, including healthcare reform, the migration of youth, and the persistent challenge of crime. Acknowledging the difficulties ahead, the Premier reiterated his government's unwavering commitment to tackling these issues head-on, providing reassurance and instilling confidence in our collective ability to overcome these challenges. Notably, he cited the deployment of tactical officers from Jamaica and Barbados as a signal of regional partnership and a firm step in reinforcing public safety.
Later that day, the Premier hosted a special luncheon at the Beaches Resort, celebrating 100 outstanding public servants from various ministries. The Premier's recognition of these individuals for their continued dedication and service to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands is a testament to their value and importance in the governance of the Turks and Caicos Islands. In his remarks, Premier Misick stated: "Excellent public service is more than efficiency—it is about integrity, commitment, and accountability. It is the backbone of good governance."
The event also recognized Deputy Governor Anya Williams for her exceptional leadership and ongoing efforts to strengthen the public sector.
As part of the government's broader community outreach efforts, parliamentarians were dispersed across the Turks and Caicos Islands visiting all government primary schools on June 2. During these visits, they planted 10 trees at each school, engaged with students and staff, and reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship and education.
These initiatives underscore the Premier's continued focus on building stronger institutions, investing in people, and fostering a more secure, inclusive, and resilient Turks and Caicos IslandsAs the government moves beyond its first 100 days, it does so with a clear mandate, renewed energy, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS: NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL POST MEETING STATEMENT
Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Hon. Premier Charles Washington Misick, co-chaired a meeting of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) National Security Council (NSC) on Monday 2nd June 2025 at the Office of the Premier, Providenciales.
In attendance, Her Excellency the Deputy Governor, the Hon. Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police, with apologies from the Hon. Deputy Premier and Hon. Min. of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development.
Also in attendance, the National Security Advisor, the Permanent Secretary for National Security, the Commanding Officer of the Regiment, the Director General of the Border Force and the NSS Threat Lead.
Members were briefed:
By the National Security Advisor on ongoing developments to strengthen TCI’s national security architecture, which underpins a cohesive posture for national security oversight. The NSA highlighted the Multi-Agency Coordinating Task Force and the successful completion of the initial phase of the Intelligence Training across all sectors, which was facilitated by CARICOM IMPACS. NSC agreed to the development of a framework for vetting across all law enforcement agencies.
By the CoP on the state of major crimes, investigations and the RTCIPF strategic operations. The CoP also updated on the regional law enforcement support and the transitioning of the officers that arrived on island from Jamaica and Barbados, which increased the RTCIPF’s operational capacity. The NSC agreed to a review of the national firearms policy.
By the Commanding Officer on the operations of the TCI Regiment including joint operations with RTCIPF and Border Force and enhanced collaboration with other regional enforcement agencies. The Commanding Officer also updated on the developments of the Regiment, namely the acquisition of patrol vessels in support of maritime protection.
By the Director General on the efforts of the Border Force to enhance border security, outlining specific border risks, highlighting key joint operations with the RTCIPF and the Regiment to mitigate identified risks. The NSC agreed to proposals to address compliance risks at all entry points.
Health and Human Services Represents Turks and Caicos Islands at WELL 2025 Smart Hospital Symposium, Bucaramanga, Colombi
The Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly participated in the WELL 2025 Smart Hospital Symposium, an innovative global event where artificial intelligence (AI), hospital innovation, and patient-centered care converge to shape the future of healthcare.
The Turks and Caicos Islands were represented by a distinguished delegation comprising:
The Honourable Mr. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services
Mrs. Desiree Lewis, Permanent Secretary, Health
Dr. Nadia Astwood, Chief Medical Officer
Mr. Lynrod Brooks, Director, Health Policy and Planning
Ms. Florinda Gardiner, Manager, Contract Management Unit
Mrs. Marah Smith, Head of Secretariat
Hosted in Bucaramanga, Colombia, this exclusive symposium gathered over 250 esteemed national and international experts for a dynamic agenda of keynote lectures, interactive forums, and practical workshops. Participants also engaged in guided technical visits and observed operational smart clinics, offering a firsthand experience of the latest innovations revolutionizing healthcare delivery.
The symposium featured forward-thinking sessions on topics such as:
Fifty More Years of Life: Technology and Health for a Long-Lasting Future
AI in Action: Accelerating the Future of Healthcare
The Future of Health: Innovation with AI and Cutting-Edge Analytics
Selfies for Health: The New Frontier of Vital Sign Assessment with AI
AI and the Future of Mankind
Ethics in the Era of AI
Business, Science, and Technology in the Healthcare Revolution
Leveraging AI for Next-Generation Medical Platforms
From Idea to Revolution: Innovation and AI in Healthcare
Transforming Healthcare: Innovations in Smart Hospitals
From Big Data to Medical Precision: The New Era of Innovation
Interoperability and Telemedicine for a World Without Distances
The Honourable Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that "Our participation in WELL 2025 reflects our vision to position the Turks and Caicos Islands at the forefront of healthcare innovation in the region. The advancements in artificial intelligence and smart hospital technologies presented here have reaffirmed our commitment to modernizing our health systems. We are actively exploring how these transformative tools can be adapted to enhance patient care, strengthen health infrastructure, and build resilience across our healthcare sector. The insights gained will inform our strategic planning and guide the future of healthcare delivery in the TCI."
Looking Ahead
The Ministry’s engagement in WELL 2025 is part of its broader commitment to health sector reform and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency, access, and outcomes. Leveraging the knowledge and partnerships developed at this global forum, the Ministry is better positioned to pursue a bold and modern vision for healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Ministry’s participation in WELL 2025 reflects its ongoing commitment to embracing innovative, technology-driven approaches to healthcare transformation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The insights and collaborations from this symposium will inform future strategic planning and support the modernization of health services across the territory.
Minister Jolly Leads TCI Delegation at Global Sustainable Islands Summit in St. Kitts
The Turks and Caicos Islands was represented on the international stage last week as Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment, led a delegation to the Global Sustainable Islands Summit (GSIS) held in St. Kitts and a Forum on Access to Climate Finance for Sub-National Island Jurisdictions in Nevis.
The Minister was joined by Ms. Tracy Knight, Representative to the UK and Head of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government London Office, and Mr. Arthur Been, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism. Together, the delegation participated in key panels, policy exchanges, and bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening the Islands’ position in regional sustainability efforts.
In his remarks to the summit, Minister Jolly highlighted the unique challenges faced by British Overseas Territories in accessing international climate finance — and emphasized the urgent need for island territories like TCI to be included in global funding frameworks.
“We may be small in size, but our ambitions are big. Turks and Caicos is ready to lead, and we are taking the steps now to build a more resilient and self-reliant future,” Minister Jolly said. “While we continue to prepare ourselves for greater autonomy, we must ensure that we’re not left out of the funding conversations that shape our future.”
The Minister outlined several ongoing initiatives, including a national climate risk assessment and collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank on coastal defense. He also shared aspirations around green innovation — including the potential development of a utility-scale solar energy project and improved drainage infrastructure to combat flooding in key tourism and residential zones.
“These are the kinds of forward-looking ideas we want to explore seriously over the next decade,” he noted, “but our people will be at the center of any plan we advance.”
Tracy Knight, who served in a key support and advisory role throughout the summit, brings years of experience representing Turks and Caicos Islands in the UK and Europe. As Head of the TCI Government London Office, she has worked closely on UK and EU development initiatives, including past engagements under the European Development Fund (EDF), and continues to advocate for greater access to global funding streams for the islands.
“The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to face real limitations as an Overseas Territory when it comes to accessing key sources of development and climate finance,” said Knight. “My role is to ensure our voice is heard, especially in the rooms where funding decisions are made. This summit reinforced how important it is for us to stay engaged — and to keep pushing for equity and inclusion on the global stage.”
The TCI delegation also held constructive dialogue with regional counterparts, including USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Nevis Premier Mark Brantley, building ties that may support future cooperation in tourism, conservation, and disaster resilience.
Following the summit, Minister Jolly reaffirmed his Ministry’s commitment to bold but practical planning, and expressed confidence that Turks and Caicos can become a leader in sustainable island development.
Ministry of Health and Human Services Hands Over UK-Donated Respiratory Equipment to TCI Hospital
On Tuesday, 27th May 2025, the Ministry of Health and Human Services performed a “Handing Over” of essential Respiratory equipment to the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital (TCI)/InterHealth Canada Ltd in a brief but meaningful ceremony.
Present for the handing over were Ms. Tamera Howell-Robinson, Permanent Secretary of Innovation, Technology and Information and Acting Permanent Secretary of Health and Human Services, Mrs. Jackurlyn Sutton, Chief Nursing Officer and National Infection Prevention and Control Focal Point, Mrs. Surbrena Pedican, Infection Control Nurse, TCI Hospital, Mrs. Cheryl Ann Foreman, other Ministry officials, and members of the local media.
The donation, which included five (5) Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) and related consumables, was made possible through the generous support of the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) Acute Trust. The initiative was facilitated by Mrs. Janice Toplass, Infection Prevention and Control Specialist through the UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) programme.
During the event, Mrs. Jackurlyn Sutton expressed heartfelt appreciation for the donation. She acknowledged the instrumental role played by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) who supported the logistics and ensured timely delivery of the equipment as well as the ambulances from the West Midlands Ambulance Service to the Islands.
Chief Nurse Sutton explained “these powered Respirators are a part of a wider respiratory protection programme which commenced in the TCI during the COVID 19 Pandemic. This equipment can be used by staff caring for specific patients who cannot be fit tested to the usual tight-fitting face masks (respirators) such as N95s, thus ensuring all staff have access to respiratory protection where needed.”
She also noted “the respirators are a part of the ongoing impact of the first two-day national training workshop conducted by the Ministry of Health and Human Services in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the UKHSA in January 2023. The Workshop facilitated the Training of Trainers in mask fit testing for twelve (12) health care professionals from both the public and private sectors”.
Nurse Surbrena Pedican, in her response, also expressed gratitude to the NHS and UKHSA for these powered Air Purifying Respirators to support the Respiratory Protection Programme within the TCI. “This equipment is an important additional layer to our personal protective equipment (PPE), which will serve to protect both staff and patients from airborne respiratory illnesses.”
Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister for Health and Human Services, although not present for the exercise due to prior commitments, stated, “I am pleased by this kind gesture of donated Respiratory Equipment from the UK NHS Acute Trust, facilitated by the IPC Specialists from the UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) Programme. The UKHSA has, over the past four (4) years, greatly assisted the TCI Ministry of Health and Human Services to build capacity not only within the area of Infection Prevention and Control but also in other key areas. We value this partnership and the various initiatives undertaken in collaboration with the programme lead, such as IPC Specialists, Mrs. Janice Toplass. We remain committed to strengthening our readiness and resilience in public health. May God continue to bless and keep us as a nation”.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services looks forward to continued collaboration with external partners such as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as we work to strengthen the knowledge and skills of our healthcare professionals to meet the evolving needs of our population. As part of this ongoing partnership, virtual training sessions will soon be provided by UKHSA to support the effective integration of the new equipment into the Turks and Caicos Islands’ broader respiratory protection strategy.
Public Health Alert: Summer Travel Increases Risk of Measles Exposure
As everyone gets ready for summer travel abroad, the Ministry of Health and Human Services is urging individuals and families to take proactive steps to protect themselves from measles — a highly contagious and potentially dangerous viral disease.
As of May 29, 2025, a total of 1,088 confirmed measles cases were reported across 33 jurisdictions in the United States of America, with many linked to international travel and low vaccination coverage. With more residents planning trips and participating in large gatherings during the summer months, the risk of exposure is significantly higher, particularly in crowded spaces such as airports, tourist destinations, and festivals.
Measles can cause serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can remain active in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. A single person with measles can infect up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people they come into contact with.
Know the Symptoms of Measles:
High fever (often above 104°F or 40°C)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
A red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward
Possible Complications Include:
Pneumonia
Diarrhea and dehydration
Ear infections (which may result in permanent hearing loss)
Brain swelling (encephalitis)
Premature birth or low birth weight in pregnant women
Death in severe cases
Public Health Tips for Summer Travelers:
Check your vaccination status. Ensure that you and your children have received two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
Consult your healthcare provider at least 4–6 weeks before international travel.
Watch for symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that begins on the face and spreads.
Stay home and call your doctor immediately if you suspect measles, especially after recent travel or exposure to someone who is ill.
If you or a family member develop symptoms of measles — especially after international travel — stay home, avoid contact with others, and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
“We want everyone to enjoy the summer season safely,” said Dr. Nadia Astwood, Chief Medical officer, Ministry of Health and Human Services. “Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against measles and prevent outbreaks.”
Commenting on the situation, Honorable Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that “We urge travelers to check their vaccination status. Parents are also reminded to check their children’s vaccination status. Vaccination is the best defense against measles, not only for personal protection, but also to safeguard our communities.”
Vaccination Availability
Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing measles.
Vaccines are available free of charge at all primary health care clinics across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider, particularly before traveling internationally.
For more information, please visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth.