Crown Land Amnesty Outreach Connects with South Caicos Community
The Turks and Caicos Islands Crown Land Unit (CLU), in partnership with the Valuation Department under the National Land Secretariat, successfully hosted the South Caicos leg of its ongoing Amnesty Programme outreach series on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Parade Grounds in South Caicos.
This event marked one of several planned initiatives to raise public awareness and engagement around the Amnesty Programme, which is set to end on June 1, 2026. The program provides eligible individuals an opportunity to regularize and resolve long-standing issues relating to their use or occupation of Crown Land.
The launch attracted a diverse cross-section of the South Caicos community, including residents, business owners, and other members of the general public. In attendance were Director of the Crown Land Unit, Keisha Holder-Lopez, along with members of the CLU team and the Valuation Department, all of whom provided their expertise,
answered questions, and offered on-the-spot guidance to attendees. Holder-Lopez, spoke on the event and emphasized the significance of this outreach initiative.
“The Amnesty Programme is not just about paperwork, it’s about restoring confidence in our land administration system, providing people with a clear path to regularize their interests in Crown Land, and promoting fairness and transparency.”
She continued, “We are proud of the engagement we saw in South Caicos. It shows that when we bring the conversation to the people, they respond. I encourage everyone across the Islands to take full advantage of this opportunity before it ends next year.”
While the event focused on the Amnesty Programme, several attendees also brought up concerns related to private land ownership and transactions. In these instances, staff courteously guided individuals to the appropriate departments to address those specific issues.
The face-to-face format of the session allowed the CLU team to conduct meaningful,one-on-one conversations between the public and government representatives. This direct engagement was well received, with many attendees expressing appreciation for the accessibility and clarity of information provided.
The South Caicos Amnesty Launch is just one of a series of sessions planned across the islands to support greater awareness and participation. The organization remains committed to ensuring that every Turks and Caicos Islander has access to the information and assistance they need to navigate the Crown Land process effectively.
The public is encouraged to stay informed by following official government channels and to reach out to the TCI Crown Land Unit with any inquiries related to the Amnesty Programme or other land matters.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force Enhances Tariff Classification Expertise
The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force recently concluded a targeted capacity-building course focused on Strengthening Customs Tariff Classification Capacities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The training, which was funded by the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC), underscores the department's commitment to elevating the technical proficiency of its officers and the largest importers in the Turks and Caicos Islands and aligning national customs practices with global benchmarks.
The training provided participants with in-depth knowledge of tariff classification principles and the international frameworks that underpin their consistent application. Participants explored the Harmonised System Convention, including its legal framework and the role of the Harmonised System Committee. They also examined the World Customs Organisation Harmonised System instruments and support tools relevant to customs duties, rules of origin, trade statistics, and monitoring. It included a dedicated session on the General Interpretative Rules that guide the classification of goods.
"This training is a game-changer for the Turks and Caicos Islands," stated Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Services. "By equipping our officers and key importers with a profound understanding of tariff classification principles and the Harmonised System, we are not just enhancing technical proficiency; we are directly strengthening our nation's revenue collection capabilities. This initiative is a bold step forward in our commitment to modernising customs practices, ensuring fair and accurate duties, and ultimately, bolstering the economic prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands."
This strategic initiative reflects Border Force’s ongoing commitment to improving trade facilitation, enhancing compliance, and driving customs modernisation within the Turks and Caicos Islands. In partnership with its key stakeholders, Border Force will continue to work to protect our borders and nation’s prosperity.
Scholarship Secretariat Completes Successful Island-Wide School Outreach Initiative
The Scholarship Secretariat, operating under the Ministry of Education, has successfully concluded its island-wide school outreach programme, aimed at equipping students with vital information on academic planning, scholarship opportunities, and career development. Running from February through May 2025, the initiative reached all government high schools as well as both campuses of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC).
Targeting 5th Form students preparing for graduation and 3rd Form students selecting subjects—a pivotal academic decision point—the outreach focused on helping students make informed choices about their futures while highlighting the support available through government resources.
Accompanying the Secretariat team was Ms. Arielle Neely, Coordinator of the National Internship and Apprenticeship Programme (NIAP), who shared the benefits of practical experience through internships and apprenticeships. Her sessions underscored the importance of combining academic achievement with workplace readiness.
“As part of our effort to promote both TCICC and the NIAP, we’ve been encouraging students to view their development as a three-step journey,” said Scholarship Officer Sharine Lightbourne. “It begins with a strong academic foundation at TCICC, continues with further studies abroad supported by government funding, and culminates in practical experience gained through local internship and apprenticeship programmes. This structured pathway sets students up for personal success and meaningful national contribution.”
Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, commended the Secretariat for its proactive engagement with students across the islands. “This outreach initiative exemplifies our Ministry’s commitment to ensuring every student—regardless of their background or location—has access to the information and guidance necessary to make empowered academic and career decisions. We are investing in our young people today so that they can become the leaders and innovators of tomorrow,” said Minister Taylor.
Each outreach session featured interactive discussions covering scholarship eligibility, application processes, subject selection strategies, and long-term academic planning. Students received printed resources and were encouraged to remain in contact with the Secretariat and the Internship Programme for continued support.
The team also emphasised the increasing importance of technical and vocational careers to the sustainable development of the Turks and Caicos Islands, encouraging students to explore trades, applied sciences, and other emerging fields.
With government school visits now complete, the Scholarship Secretariat is preparing to extend its outreach to private schools. Interested institutions are invited to contact the Secretariat to schedule a presentation.
The Scholarship Secretariat remains committed to expanding access to higher education, cultivating local talent, and developing a workforce aligned with the future needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes Appointed Vice Chairperson of CARILEC
FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes has been appointed Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC), the regional association of energy solutions providers and other stakeholders operating in the energy sector.
The first female Vice Chairperson of CARILEC and one of the few female CEOs of Caribbean utility companies, Mrs. Forbes has led FortisTCI for the past five years. Under her leadership, FortisTCI is focused on achieving a suitable regulatory environment that will accelerate the transition to a greener, smarter energy future while providing safe, reliable, and least-cost energy that supports the Turks and Caicos Islands' economic growth and the well-being of residents.
Mrs. Forbes has served CARILEC as a board director for nearly five years. As Vice Chairperson, she will serve alongside CARILEC's newly elected Chairman, Wayne Caines, of Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (BELCO). Both were elected at CARILEC's 37th Annual General Meeting, held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Willemstad, Curacao.
A seasoned C-suite executive with nearly 19 years of experience in the electric utility sector, Mrs. Forbes brings extensive knowledge and leadership to the role of Vice Chairperson of CARILEC. She currently serves on the boards of FortisOntario and Fortis Belize Limited. A Certified Public Accountant, Mrs. Forbes served on the Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group of the International Federation of Accountants in 2024.
Reflecting on her new role as Vice Chairperson of CARILEC, Mrs. Forbes stated, "I welcome the opportunity to serve CARILEC in an additional capacity, and I am grateful for the confidence my fellow utility leaders have placed in me. As the leading voice for the Caribbean energy sector, CARILEC plays a vital role in harnessing the collective views of its members, facilitating innovative business solutions, offering critical mutual assistance in times of need, and providing essential training for the men and women who serve our utilities. I look forward to working with the Board and the association to further advance sustainable energy solutions for our region."
ANGELINA ASTWOOD APPOINTED AS EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR IN THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms. Angelina Astwood as the Executive Administrator within the Office of the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Ms. Astwood began her academic journey in 2017 at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, graduating at the top of her General Studies (Humanities) course, concentrating on Law, Sociology, and Politics. She further pursued her studies by earning a Bachelor of Laws with Honours from the University of Manchester. She is currently advancing her qualifications through the Legal Practice Course at the University of Law.
In addition to her academic achievements, Ms. Astwood has a solid foundation in leadership and administration through her professional involvement in the hospitality industry. She has held key Human Resources positions within this sector and, due to her exceptional service, was honoured with the Heart of Hospitality award from the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association.
On her new appointment, Ms. Astwood said, "I am filled with gratitude and honour for the opportunity to serve my country. I will embrace this role with confidence and a commitment to national development, guided by the scripture: 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord..." —Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV). My commitment to public service is deeply rooted and inspired by the legacy of my late grandfather, the Hon. Lewis Astwood III, and my great-grandmother, Myrtle Ewing-Rigby. Both were esteemed public servants who devoted many years to faithful service. I remain motivated by their exemplary integrity and dedication as I embark on this promising new chapter in my career."
In congratulating Ms. Astwood, H.E. Anya Williams, the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Head of the Public Service, stated, “I am pleased to welcome Ms. Astwood to the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service and to officially congratulate her on her appointment as the new Executive Administrator in the Office of the Governor. Ms. Astwood’s experience and academic background, as well her dedication to service will undoubtedly be an asset in her now role and will help to bring a fresh perspective. I am confident that she will excel in this role and look forward to her public service contributions.
Congratulations Ms. Astwood on your new appointment!
CDEMA signs agreements with stakeholders
The United Kingdom on Wednesday signed an agreement with the Barbados-based Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) that will provide financial assistance to regional countries should they be impacted during the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane season that begins in June
“As in the past, we commit to respond to any CDEMA request within 24 hours regarding the availability of funds, recognising the critical importance of timely and humanitarian action,” the British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Simon Mustard, said at the signing ceremony.
He told reporters that the agreement alows for US$375,000 to go towards any hurricane-affected member states of CDEMA to provide relief and that said CDEMA already has US$50,000 upfront to allow for a quick response.
CDEMA’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Riley, stated that, in light of the United States’ funding cuts to several agencies, including United Nations agencies that serve the Caribbean, the region has been successful in lobbying the European Union (EU) to assist with early warning forecasts.
“We are grateful to the European Union, which has extended access to significant forecasting, predicting as well as modeling products and satellite products from the EU scientific organisations and we have a high level of confidence that we are in a position to ensure that the early alerting and the forecast and prediction related to early warning will be in place for 2025,” she said.
She said despite the Trump administration’s budget cut to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States administration had pledged to continue operating hurricane hunter aircraft for forecasting.
CDEMA also signed transportation and logistics memoranda of understanding with Kestrel Shipping and Sunrise Airways.
“They expand the logistical reach of the regional response mechanism and reflect the collective commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods across the participating States,” Riley said.
Source- CMC
Bahamas worried over increased tariff as announced by United States
The Bahamas government Wednesday warned that the implementation of a 10 per cent tariff by the United States on goods and services exported from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country “could potentially influence both trade flows and visitor arrivals.”
“The United States remains The Bahamas’ principal trading partner, accounting for approximately 83.3 per cent of our total imports in 2024, valued at an estimated five billion US dollars.
“This longstanding economic partnership is also reflected in our tourism sector, where, in 2024, 84 per cent of our stopover visitors originated from the United States,” Prime Minister Phillip Davis said as he presented the US$3.89 billion budget to Parliament.
In April, US President Donald Trump announced far-reaching new tariffs on nearly all US trading partners in a move economists and other traders say is designed to dismantle much of the architecture of the global economy and trigger broader trade wars.
In the case of the Caribbean, Trump announced a 10 per cent tariff on most regional countries, while in the case of Guyana, the tariff is as high, as 38 per cent.
Prime Minister Davis told legislators that while the close relationship Nassau shares with Washington has yielded considerable benefits, it also underscores the Caribbean country’s exposure to developments in the US economy.
“Any slowdown or heightened economic uncertainty in that market can have a direct impact on Bahamian trade and tourism. This sensitivity is particularly relevant considering recent policy announcements from the United States, specifically, the proposed imposition of a 10 per cent tariff on all Caribbean nations, including The Bahamas.
“Such a measure, if implemented, could potentially influence both trade flows and visitor arrivals. In this context, the government is committed to pursuing constructive dialogue with our US and CARICOM partners to address the implications of this policy shift in a manner that protects and promotes mutual economic interests,” Davis said.
He said well before the election of the current US President, the Bahamas government had taken proactive steps to strengthen the country’s economic resilience through the adoption of a National Trade Policy.
“This policy lays the foundation for a trade diversification framework that seeks to broaden our export base and reduce overdependence on any single market. At the core of these efforts is a commitment to ensuring that global trade developments do not unduly disadvantage Bahamian businesses or consumers.”
Prime Minister Davis said that the government has also been collaborating with the private sector to explore enhanced trade opportunities with Canada, the Dominican Republic, Ghana, and India, while also investigating new shipping channels and logistics solutions.
“Let me share one example: the average price of a dozen eggs in The Bahamas currently stands at US$3.79. In comparison, during the period when eggs were primarily imported from the United States, prices soared to as much as US$10 per dozen eggs due to the devastating impact of bird flu on the American poultry industry.
“In response, with government support the private sector was able to shift its sourcing to the Dominican Republic, which not only stabilised supply but also resulted in significant economic benefits for Bahamian consumers by reducing costs.”
Prime Minister Davis said the Golden Yoke programme had a beneficial impact on pricing, noting that currently, the price of eggs in Florida averages around US$5.60 per dozen.
“The fact that Bahamian consumers are paying less highlights the positive impact and strategic advantage of diversifying our trade partnerships,” he said.
Source- CMC
Reggae Boyz edge Soca Warriors in Unity Cup semifinal
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors in the opening match of the Unity Cup here at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, Tuesday.
The win secures Jamaica’s place in the final, set for May 31st, where they will face either Ghana or Nigeria.
Kasey Palmer opened the scoring for Jamaica in the 25th minute, sending the Reggae Boyz into the break with a 1-0 advantage. The lead was doubled early in the second half when Rumarn Burrell produced a spectacular acrobatic finish, seemingly putting Jamaica in control after 53 minutes.
However, Trinidad and Tobago responded almost instantly, with Isaiah Leacock pulling a goal back just moments later. The Soca Warriors then completed their comeback when captain Kevin Molino nodded in a header to level the score in the 69th minute.
With the match seemingly headed for extra time and penalties, Jamaica was awarded a second penalty in the dying moments when Renaldo Cephas was brought down inside the area by veteran T&T custodian Marvin Phillip.
Defender Richard King held his nerve, converting from the spot in 90-plus minutes to seal a dramatic late winner and send the Reggae Boyz into the final.
Source- CMC
Scoreboard roundup
NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
Knicks 121, Pacers 130
NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE
Stars 1, Oilers 4
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Dodgers 9, Guardians 5
Cardinals 7, Orioles 4
Giants 1, Tigers 3
Braves 0, Phillies 2
Twins 4, Rays 2
White Sox 4, Mets 6
Red Sox 1, Brewers 5
Reds 7, Royals 2
Rockies 3, Cubs 4
Blue Jays 0, Rangers 2
Athletics 1, Astros 11
Yankees 3, Angels 2
Marlins 6, Padres 8
Pirates 9, Diamondbacks 6
Nationals 1, Mariners 9
Officer testifies in Sean Combs' trial, says car registered to Combs' company left Kid Cudi's home after break-in
The Los Angeles police officer who responded to Kid Cudi’s home on Dec. 22, 2011, after the rapper reported a break-in there testified Wednesday that a black SUV he saw leaving the scene was registered to Sean Combs’ company.
LAPD Officer Christopher Ignacio testified that he walked through the home with Cudi, born Scott Mescudi, and recorded the incident as trespassing, which he described to the court as “someone entering someone’s property without the owner’s consent.”
Ignacio further testified that he ran the license plate from a black Cadillac Escalade SUV seen driving from the house. The jury saw that the resulting report showed the vehicle's registered owner as Bad Boy Productions, Inc., which Combs owned.
On cross-examination, Ignacio testified that his report said nothing about kidnapping or a firearm being involved.
Los Angeles Fire Department arson investigator Lance Jimenez also took the stand Wednesday, testifying that it did not take him long to conclude that the car fire at Cudi's residence on Jan. 9, 2012, was caused by a “makeshift firebomb” commonly known as a Molotov cocktail.
Celebrity stylist Deonte Nash then testified about the times he heard Combs call girlfriend Cassie Ventura derogatory names.
Nash further testified that he heard Combs tell Ventura “that he wouldn’t put her music out, that he would get her parents fired from their jobs, that he would put out sex tapes,” the latter referring to video recordings of "freak-off" sexual encounters addressed in previous testimony.
Nash told the jury that Combs required Nash to send to him photos of Ventura in different outfits so he could choose.
Nash told the court that he recalled arriving with Ventura at the 2014 Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty. “She looked bomb. Her hair was down,” Nash testified, then told the jury that Combs came over and said, “I thought I told you she needs to wear her hair up.”
Nash testified Combs angrily grabbed him by his jacket and lifted him up. “I just started asking people at the party for hair pins,” Nash told the court.
Nash also testified about going to a gay club with Ventura, Rita Ora and others one night in 2013. The group had returned to Ventura’s apartment, Nash told the court, when Ventura “got a call from Puff" telling her “that she ought to bring her a** to his house.”
Nash told the court that Ventura “started to panic” before Combs called back and told Nash that “we were wild and that he thought he told us not to be going out.”
Nash testified that Ventura “just packed her stuff and went to his house.”
Source-ABC