Three TCI Regiment Members Successfully Complete Maritime Coxswain Course in Jamaica
Three distinguished members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment—Lieutenant Zachery Rigby, Lance Corporal Antonio Clarke, and Marine Nicardo Ewing—have successfully completed an intensive eight-week Patrol Craft Coxswain Course at the Caribbean Military Academy, School of Maritime Studies, in Port Royal, Jamaica. They were among a total of ten candidates from the Jamaica Defence Force and Jamaica Constabulary Force.
The course was strategically designed to develop essential skills and knowledge for operating auxiliary patrol boats in both inshore and offshore environments, supporting critical missions such as interdictions, counter-terrorism, and narcotics enforcement. Its primary objective was to prepare participants to maneuver and navigate effectively during diverse maritime operations.
Key areas covered included:
· Basic Coxswain Skills (ramp launch & recovery, mooring, pier tie-offs, high-speed maneuvering)
· Maritime Safety and First Aid
· Inter-Agency Response Coordination
· Vessel Stability and Man Overboard Procedures
· Navigation and Survival at Sea
· Basic Engineering (outboard motors and diesel systems)
· Ship Husbandry
· Insertion and Extraction Operations
· Maritime Law Enforcement
The program emphasised practical boat handling, beginning in the second week and continuing throughout the course, allowing trainees ample time to hone their skills as small boat operators. To qualify, candidates were required to achieve a minimum score of 70% across all assessments.
Reflections from Participants
Lieutenant Rigby described the course as a valuable opportunity, noting that the welcoming environment fostered learning and growth. “The skills, experience, and knowledge I gained have significantly enhanced my ability to perform my duties more efficiently and effectively,” he said.
Lance Corporal Clarke expressed that the training was a career-changing experience. “This course has given me the confidence and expertise to command a patrol craft and crew. I learned valuable skills in navigation, interdiction tactics, maritime law enforcement, and leadership. I am proud to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment and look forward to sharing these skills with my team.”
Marine Ewing also shared her experience “I attended the Patrol Craft Coxswain Course from February 24 to April 25, 2025. The course was comprehensive and covered essential areas such as navigation, communication, and emergency protocols. The hands-on training component was particularly beneficial, providing practical experience in a controlled environment.
The instructors demonstrated a high level of expertise and professionalism, making the learning process both informative and engaging. The facilities available during the course were of top quality, enhancing the overall training experience.
I found the course content highly relevant to real-world operations, offering valuable insights and techniques that I believe will greatly assist in our duties.”
This training initiative paves the way for the upcoming deployment of two fast patrol vessels scheduled for delivery in May 2025. These vessels will be commissioned as the core of the newly established TCI Regiment Maritime Troop, reinforcing the Islands' border security and sovereignty.
TCI Cabinet holds 5th Meeting
Her Excellency, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 5th meeting of Cabinet held on Wednesday April 2, 2025, at the Hon Hilly Ewing Building, Providenciales. All members of Cabinet were present.
Here is a summary of this Cabinet meeting:
Cabinet noted the outcome or performance of the cost of living relief programme.
Approved the new administrative mechanism for collecting the share transfer duty/tax payment.
Approved the development agreement for the construction of a resort and staff housing development for the Palace Company TCI Ltd., Hadley Investment III Ltd.
Agreed to the terms of a settlement of legal proceedings.
Endorsed the draft UK-OT biodiversity strategy.
Agreed recommendation concerns…
The Cabinet agreed in principle for TCIG to agree to financial assurances in relation to the airlift to South Caicos.
Noted the findings of the recent queen conch study and agreed to the proposed plan of action.
Approved the appointment of the following persons to the Sports Commission Board effective April 1, 2025:
Two-Year Period-
Mrs. Desiree Adams-Robinson, Deputy Chair
Mr. Thomas Ewing, Member
Ms. Pekeira Brooks, Member
One-Year Period-
Mrs. Tamara Bassett, Member
Approved legislative changes to the Magistrate’s Court Act and the Firearms Act.
Approved the appointment of the following persons to boards within the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services:
Work Permit Board Zone 1, April 1, 2025- March 31, 2028
Mr. Marciano Williams, Chairman
Work Permit Board Zone 1, April 1, 2025- March 31, 2027
Hon. Emily Saunders, Member (South Caicos Representative)
Mr. Benmore Kennedy, Member
Work Permit Board Zone 2, April 1, 2025- March 31, 2027
Mr. Addison A. Gardiner, Member
Mr. Marcusson Lightbourne, Member
Immigration Appeal Tribunal, April 1, 2025- March 31, 2027
Mr. Robert Fulford, Member
Mrs. Desmona Belliard, Member
Approved amendments to the Road Traffic Act 2021 and Customs Act for further submission to Parliament to remove the requirement for permits for the importation of vehicles and to restrict the importation of a criteria of Japanese vehicles over 5 years.
The Cabinet also noted a report from the World Bank Group Global Digital Summit.
Further details will be shared at a later date on RTC.
THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH CELEBRATES THE 23RD ANNUAL VACCINATION WEEK IN THE AMERICAS AND THE 14TH ANNUAL WORLD IMMUNIZATION DAY
Vaccination Week in the Americas is celebrated from April 26th to May 3rd, 2025, under the theme “Your decision makes a difference”. This year, the campaign focuses on the Disease Elimination Initiative which aims to accelerate the elimination of more than 30 communicable diseases and conditions related to communicable diseases. Eleven (11) of these are diseases that can be prevented with lifesaving vaccines.
The week began on April 26th with a virtual launch hosted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), our regional partner in the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). During the launch, vaccination experts and officials from PAHO congratulated the region on its achievements and encouraged all countries to continue the hard work, particularly those countries that are or have been experiencing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Belize and the Turks and Caicos Islands were invited to present their activities for the week because of their focus on the Human Papilloma Vaccine (HPV) and the future eradication of various cancers, including cervical cancer.
“The region of the Americas is the world leader in the elimination and eradication of vaccine-preventable diseases and has made significant achievements in obtaining and maintaining high vaccine coverage. However, because the Caribbean region offers the world sun, sea, sand, the perfect location, and warm hospitality for travelers, our risk of importation of diseases through travel and trade is increased. Because of this, it is imperative that we continue our efforts to protect our nations. The TCI has a mandatory medical evaluation program for migrants seeking to work in the TCI, and this, along with our already robust EPI program, has proven effective in the prevention of major spread of vaccine-preventable diseases in the past. I wish the team a successful vaccination week. Honourable Kyle Knowles – Minister of Health and Human Services
“Along with our efforts of maintaining high coverage in childhood vaccines, we are focusing on the prevention of various cancers in our most vulnerable group by offering the HPV vaccine to adolescents. High-risk types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine protects against HPV infection and can prevent cervical cancer. The demand for this vaccine is increasing because of its proven effectiveness. We have done an excellent job as a country by achieving an 80% coverage in the HPV vaccine, the highest to date in the Caribbean region. I wish to register the Ministry’s thanks to our partners in this life saving good; the parents for recognizing the importance of vaccines, the adolescents who understand accountability for their personal health, the government for always providing the funding needed to procure lifesaving vaccines, the government of Canada for their donations of cold chain equipment that helps us to maintain the efficacy and quality of our vaccines, PAHO for their invaluable support, the various schools that partner with us on this journey, our local partners in health for your support and finally, my hardworking team of public health nurses for reaching every child, every person, everywhere across the TCI to ensure that our country is protected and doing our part in this role. When we protect our country, we do our part in protecting our region and the world. Join us in keeping the TCI VPD free” – Alrisa Gardiner, Primary Health Care and EPI Manager for the Turks and Caicos Islands.
PAULA VIRGIL-STUBBS APPOINTED EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR IN THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Paula Virgil-Stubbs as Executive Administrator in the Office of the Deputy Governor.
Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs brings a wealth of experience and a strong professional background to her new position. Holding an Associate's Degree in Business Administration from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, she has continually demonstrated her commitment to professional development through a series of advanced training programs. Most recently, she completed the Administrative Excellence course offered by the Turks and Caicos Islands Training Department, further sharpening her leadership and office management skills.
Her career within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) began at the Grand Turk Post Office, where she worked as a sales clerk. After relocating to Providenciales and gaining valuable experience in the private sector, she returned to TCIG in 2018, joining the Office of the Premier as an Administrative Officer. Over the years, she quickly advanced, taking on the role of Senior Administrative Officer in 2021 before stepping into the position of Assistant Protocol Officer.
As Executive Administrator, Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs will play a key role in managing the day-to-day operations of the Deputy Governor's Office. This includes organizing and coordinating meetings, managing appointments and the Deputy Governor's diary, and providing critical administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of the office. Additionally, Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs will assist with high-level administrative tasks, including handling correspondence, organizing events, and managing administrative functions with the utmost professionalism.
In commenting on her new appointment, Mrs. Virgil Stubbs stated, "As I begin this new chapter in my career as Executive Administrator within the Deputy Governor Officer, I want to first give thanks to God for making this opportunity possible. I am deeply grateful to my family for their unwavering love, support, and constant encouragement to strive for excellence. This moment truly shows that hard work and dedication pay off. I am also sincerely thankful to the Turks and Caicos Island Government for entrusting me with this new role. I look forward to embracing the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge while continuing to grow, learn, and gain valuable experience in this position. I am committed to serving with integrity, professionalism, and pride.”
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H.E. Anya Williams, congratulated Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs, stating, "It gives me great pleasure to officially announce and congratulate Mrs. Paula Virgil-Stubbs on her appointment as Executive Administrator in my office. As Executive Administrator, Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs will manage multiple administrative tasks, from coordinating my schedule to providing key support during meetings and events. Paula has proven herself to be a diligent and reliable public servant. I am confident that her experience and dedication will undoubtedly be an asset to my office and the entire public service
Primary Health Care awards Trailblazer of the Year and Medical Records Officer of the Year 2024
Administrative professionals and medical records officers are a vital part of the health care team. In many cases they are the machinery behind a well-functioning engine. This year the Primary Health Care Manager introduced the “Trailblazer of the Year” and the “Medical Records Officer” of the year award 2024.
A trailblazer by definition is someone who is the first to do something. A trailblazer is a leader and a trendsetter, someone who helps to guide others. The trailblazer award was presented to the individual who has consistently performed exceptionally well on the job. Someone who leads by example and exemplifies personal growth and in their area of expertise.
The Medical Records Officer of the year award was presented to the medical records officer who performed exceptionally well in 2024. This individual displayed exceptional performance in the core competencies set out by the Human Resource Management Directorate. This officer displays strong customer service skills, dedication, reliability, and efficiency.
The recipient of the 2024 trailblazer award was presented to Ms. Coni Malcolm and the Medical Records Officer of the year award was presented to Mrs. Kaylesa Rolle-Mason. The awards were presented by the Primary Health Care Manager on Administrative Professionals Day during the Ministry of Health and Human Services’ training for administrative staff.
“I am truly honoured to accept the medical records officer of the year award. I am grateful for this recognition; it truly means a great deal to me. I am grateful for the support of my teammates and the encouragement of those that lead the unit. I look forward to continuing this journey doing my part to support the team at Migrant Health and by extension the Primary Health Care Unit.” – Kaylesa Mason-Rolle
“I am thrilled to receive the trailblazer of the year award for 2024. This award means a lot to me. It is proof that my hard work, dedication, and performance has not gone unnoticed. I could not have achieved this without the incredible support of my manager, her belief in me has been my greatest strength. This award inspires me to keep striving for excellence.” – Coni Deanna Malcolm
“I am a firm believer in rewarding excellent and exceptional performance. The administrative and medical records professionals within our organization play a vital role in the optimal functioning of primary health care. They are in their own way, the unsung heroes of the team. Without their care, dedication, commitment, and hard work, our team would be unable to make the significant achievements that we have made over the years. We value our team members and so we were delighted to introduce these awards, not only to reward performance, but to add to other activities that boost staff morale. It is proven that good staff morale equals good performance. I am extremely proud of Ms. Malcolm and Mrs. Rolle-Mason. Their rewards were a long time coming, but better late than never. Both ladies continue to perform exceptionally well and have shown excellent leadership qualities among our teams. Congratulations on a job well done.” – Alrisa Gardiner Primary Health Care Manager
“Congratulations to the awardees on their achievement of trailblazer and medical records officer of the year. This is a testament to your professionalism, hard work and dedication. This amazing accomplishment is just one step on your journey. Your ability to relentlessly provide excellent service and find innovative ways to improve service delivery is the key to this success and many to come. This is an incredible achievement, and you deserve the spotlight to celebrate the moment." – Honourable Kyle Knowles Minister of Health and Human Services
Join us in congratulating these committed, hardworking and dedicated professionals.
Deputy Premier, Minister of Immigration and Border Services Commemorates May Day
Around the world May 1st is celebrated as International Workers Day, “May Day”, a day that commemorates the struggles for workers’ rights, and honours the industrious people whose commitment and work have moulded economies and communities all around the world. Throughout the years, the observance of this day has developed into a powerful representation of social justice, solidarity, and the ongoing fight for workers’ rights.
It reminds us that our collective progress as a society is directly linked to the well-being of our workforce.
On this May Day 2025, we pause to recognize and honour the hardworking people of the Turks and Caicos Islands who are the foundation, backbone, and at the heart all that we are our country, and are at the center of everything we seek to achieve. As we commemorate this day, we do so with a renewed purpose and commitment, a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for each and every one of you for your dedication and the tireless sacrifices you make, showing up every day to get the job done.
For many years, this day has gone unrecognized in our country, but this year, we have made a deliberate effort to change that because we recognize that whilst most persons might not be familiar with the significance of the day, it is incumbent upon us in the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services, to remind you our people that you matter, your hard work and dedication matter, your sacrifices matter, your work-related concerns matter, the injustices and dissatisfaction matter. In the same vein, we want to also remind you of the importance of committing yourselves to the work you do, and encourage you to be good stewards of your job tasks, taking pride in your work, and doing it to the best of your ability.
The theme for this year, “Securing Decent Work and Social Justice for a Resilient Turks and Caicos,” is more than just a slogan—it is a national call to action. It speaks to our vision for a future where workers are treated fairly, compensated justly, and protected under sound labor policies. It also highlights our shared responsibility to build systems promoting equity, opportunity, and inclusion.
As Minister responsible for Labor and Employment Services, I reaffirm my commitment to labour reform, workforce development, and ensuring that decent work is not a privilege but a right for every citizen. We are working to strengthen worker protections, expand opportunities for skills training, and engage employers in building a culture of fairness and productivity.
Today, let us recognize our workers not only with words, but with action. Let us commit to valuing their contributions, improving their conditions, and securing a future of dignity and justice for all.
Happy May Day to the workers of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Your labour builds our economy, your resilience inspires our progress, and your voice will always be in this government’s agenda.
Thank you, and may God bless you all.
Prime Minister Persad Bissessar sworn in for a second time as head of government
Seventy-three-year-old Kamla Persad Bissessar created history on Thursday, when she took the oath of office, becoming the first woman to be sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on two separate occasions.
Persad Bissessar, a senior counsel, who was first sworn in in 2010 when she led the People’s Partnership government, was sworn in by President Christine Kangaloo, more than 72 hours after she led her United National Congress (UNC) coalition of interest group to a convincing victory in the general election that had been called four months ahead of the second anniversary of the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) second consecutive term in office.
Her appointment means that for the first time in the history of this twin island republic that the senior political posts in the country are held by women, with the Opposition Leader being Pennelope Beckles.
Senior Counsel, John Jeremie, who served as attorney general in previous PNM administrations, between 2003-2007 and 2009-2010, was also sworn in as the new Attorney General.
Prime Minister Persad Bissessar said that her Cabinet will be sworn into office on Saturday and warned the incoming government ministers and legislators that “if you treat citizens with callousness, contempt …I guarantee you your retribution will be swift and brutal.
“Never, ever mistake my physical appearance or my kindness for weakness. I think you all know there is nothing more dangerous than a mother who believes her children are in danger. Everyone will be wise to remember that for the next five years,” she told the ceremony.
Prime Minister Persad Bissessar said that her administration will seek to be inclusive and dismissed those she termed as “eat a food financiers, who have looted this country for the last 10 years,” adding “democracy may be imperfect, but once every five years, no matter your wealth or status every one is equal on election day”.
She said that beyond Port of Spain, “there is a country with real people, with real feelings and ambitions.
“This is their country too. That is why I dedicate my term as prime minister to the forgotten people of our country,” she said, saying “I see you, every single one”.
She said that whether the people are of various political affiliations, “I see you (and ) you will be treated equally and fairly.
“I made a promise that everybody will win and I plan to fulfill that promise,” she said, indicating that she will be outlining the plans for her administration for “the coming months” to the country next week.
She has promised that six months into her administration’s term in office, “you will be in a safer and happier place, TNT, you will see what happens when a government cares, we will work to make you and your lives better, that is our promise to you.
“We have done it before and with your help, we will do it again,” she added.
Prime Minister Persad Bissessar said she is aware that her coalition government has to be “inclusive, strategic, dedicated and focused”, saying “this day starts the journey to rebuild our economy, to restore our security, to revolutionise our access to technology, diversify our revenue streams and renew out people’s hope, faith and confidence to propel our beloved nation forward.
“Some of the seeds we will plant in this five-year journey will blossom into trees, whose fruits we may not eat, but our children and grandchildren and the generations to come will certainly eat that fruit”.
Persad Bissessar led the UNC coalition to win 26 out of the 41 seats in the Parliament, with 13 going to the PNM and the other two to the Tobago People’s Party (TPP), whose leader and Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), Farley Chavez Augustine, was among the invited guests at the ceremony.
In her brief address to the occasion, President Kangaloo congratulated Prime Minister Persad Bissessar for being “historic” in becoming the first woman to be elected to head a government on two occasions.
“The occasion of this, your second prime ministerial appointment, is significant for women. This afternoon’s swearing-in ceremony is also significant because it is the highest demonstration of our country’s democracy at work and of our country’s maturity in effecting a peaceful transition of power.
“The peaceful transition of power is a hallmark of our democracy and is critical to the country’s stability. When the transition is as smooth as this transition has been, it reflects the strength of our democracy and its institutions”.
President Kangaloo said she wanted to congratulate all the citizens of the country who took part in the democratic process that has led to the election of a new government, adding “your participation in that process is at one at the same time both the foundation and the realisation of our democratic principles.
“You have spoken decisively through the democratic process and have entrusted a new government with a clear mandate to lead our country forward,” she said.
Source-CMC
US economy shrank at start of Trump's 2nd term
The U.S. economy shrank over the initial months of President Donald Trump’s second term as a flurry of tariff proposals stoked uncertainty among businesses and consumers.
U.S. gross domestic product, or GDP, declined at a 0.3% annualized rate over three months ending in March. The figure marked a sharp dropoff from 2.4% annualized growth over the final three months of 2024.
Imports surged more than 40% at the outset of this year as companies rushed inventory into the U.S. ahead of potential tariffs, data showed. By contrast, federal spending fell about 5% over the first three months of 2025.
The decline in GDP "primarily reflected an increase in imports," as well as a drop-off in government spending, the U.S. Commerce Department said.
The data covers a period before the so-called Liberation Day tariffs went into effect in early April.
Source- ABC
Sean 'Diddy' Combs rejects plea offer ahead of sex trafficking trial
Sean "Diddy" Combs on Thursday formally rejected the government’s offer to plead guilty and spare himself the possibility of a prolonged prison sentence.
“Yes I do, your honor,” Combs said after Judge Arun Subramanian asked him whether he rejected the offer federal prosecutors made.
Combs is scheduled to stand trial beginning Monday with jury selection on charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and prostitution that allege he coerced women into prolonged sexual encounters he called freak-offs.
Maureen Comey, an assistant United States attorney, said a guilty plea would have reduced the amount of prison time Combs would be exposed to compared to a trial conviction on all counts, which could result in what is effectively a life sentence.
Combs came to court in a beige jail uniform. He smiled at and hugged his attorneys and gave a fist bump to attorney Teny Geragos.
Geragos raised concerns during the brief conference about statements Los Angeles-based attorney Lisa Bloom made about the case to a documentary.
Bloom represents at least two of Combs’ civil accusers.
“We’re concerned with her behavior here,” Geragos said.
Subramanian said he would remind “all counsel” and witnesses to adhere to rules of professional conduct and court rules about potentially prejudicial statements that could infringe on Combs’ right to a fair trial.
Source-ABC