Operation Safe Passage -Parents Be Aware
During the second week of Operation Safe Passage, the Traffic Enforcement Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) is once again reminding parents that your child’s welfare is your responsibility.
Parents, you are urged to be fully aware of the individuals you are hiring to transport your children to and from school.
Today’s operation was led by ag Insp Damien Mitchell and included Constables Dacliche
Clervil, Ronaldo Scafe and Raheem Watson and occurred in the vicinity of the Five Cays intersection.
Officers stopped two unlicensed public service vehicles operating school transportation. The drivers who were stopped during the operation claimed they were transporting relatives.
Both vehicles were found to be dangerously overcrowded, with children sitting on other children, no seat belts and seats over-assigned.
Their vehicles were impounded.
Under the Children (Care and Protection) Act 2020, officers have a mandatory duty to act in the best interest of the child. While parents are ultimately responsible for ensuring the safe passage of their children, the Force remains guided by the paramountcy principle of child welfare.
Additionally, under the Road Traffic Act 13:01 Section 45 (Loading and overcrowding vehicles) (3) No vehicle shall carry a greater number of persons than it is licensed to carry. (4) Any person who contravenes the provisions of this section commits an offence.
Officers also had cause to issue tickets for a range of offences, including obscene language, carrying more persons than licensed to carry, permitting a child under 14 for riding a vehicle without a seatbelt (in several instances, children were seated on the middle console of vehicles), failing to keep as far left as possible, and excessive tinting of windows.
A male driver who had been warned on numerous occasions last year to remove illegal window tints was again found in violation.
Each time officers previously stopped the vehicle and instructed the driver to remove the tints, darker tints were subsequently reinstalled. Today, that driver was issued a ticket for illegal tint.
The Force also wishes to remind the public that aggressive behavior, threatening language, cursing at police officers, or attempting to obstruct officers in the lawful execution of their duties are criminal offences and will result in charges.
We remain committed to safeguarding children and ensuring that all transportation operators comply with the law.
Parents are encouraged to verify that any person transporting their child is properly licensed and authorized.
Towing trucks were kept busy as the Police operation went into day two with twenty eight tickets issued.
Operation Safe Passage on the way in TCI
Operation Safe Passage officially commenced with a soft launch on Monday, 9 February, targeting the dangers associated with unlicensed public service vehicles and related road traffic offences.
The operation was initiated in response to growing concerns about passengers, particularly children, being transported in unlicensed vehicles, including instances where children were observed standing along roadways flagging down these vehicles. Such practices pose serious risks to public safety.
The aim of Operation Safe Passage is to detect, disrupt, and deter the operation of unlicensed public service vehicles while addressing associated road traffic and criminal offences.
Key objectives include identifying and stopping vehicles suspected of operating as unlicensed public service vehicles; enforcing Road Traffic legislation relating to licensing, insurance,
vehicle fitness, and driver compliance; removing offending vehicles from circulation through seizure and impoundment; detecting and administering the law as it relates to immigration and other criminal offences encountered during the operation; and supporting a visible, intelligence- led policing presence.
On Day One, officers successfully conducted vehicle checks and impounded several vehicles.
Day Two, illegal operators adopted new tactics. Upon sighting police presence, suspected operators altered their mode of operation. Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) were established, led by the Traffic Enforcement Unit and including the Highway Patrol; however, suspected illegal operators dropped off passengers before reaching checkpoints, resulting in groups of passengers dispersing on foot.
On day three, officers observed increased coordination between drivers and passengers, with suspected operators knowing passengers by name and vice versa.
While this may appear harmless as a passenger, alerting a driver to your name and home address, especially when you do not know them, is extremely dangerous. This tactic can have serious and potentially harmful consequences for passengers.
Despite these efforts to evade enforcement, twelve vehicles were impounded based on supporting evidence gathered.
While public sentiment has been mixed, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to illegal transport operations, and all enforcement actions undertaken during Operation Safe Passage remain fully within the remit of the law.
Operation Safe Passage remains ongoing as we continue to work collaboratively to enhance roadsafety and address illegal transport practices across the islands.
NATIONAL YOUTH AWARDS 2026 CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT OF TCI YOUTH
The Department of Youth Affairs proudly hosted the second biennial National Youth Awards on Saturday, 7 February 2026, bringing together Cabinet Members, dignitaries, awardees, students, parents, well-wishers, and members of the media for a grand black-tie ceremony dedicated to celebrating the outstanding achievements of young people across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
With an audience of over 200 attendees, the formal event shone a national spotlight on youth who continue to make exceptional contributions within their communities and respective fields. A total of 31 awards were presented to deserving young individuals and organisations in recognition of their talent, leadership, service, and innovation.
The evening featured a number of distinguished highlights, including a flawlessly executed Flag Parade by the TCI Cadet Corps, musical performances by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Band and the Provision Band, and a captivating saxophone performance by Youth in Performing Arts Award winner, Mr. Deangelo McLeod. The ceremony was expertly guided by hosts Ms. Shakiah Lewis and Mr. Ashley Brooks, whose professionalism and charisma ensured a smooth and engaging programme.
Each awardee received a handcrafted trophy designed by local artisan Mr. Stanford Handfield, reflecting the culture, creativity, and dedication embodied by the nation’s youth. Throughout the evening, video features showcased the various initiatives and programmes spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, highlighting continued investments in youth development across the islands.
The ceremony was further honoured by remarks from Her Excellency the Governor, the Honourable Premier, and the Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Honourable Rachel Taylor, each commending the awardees and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to empowering young people.
In her address, Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, stated: “Tonight, we celebrate the extraordinary talent, resilience, and dedication of our young people. These awardees represent the very best of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and their achievements remind us that when we invest in our youth, we invest in the future of our nation. The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating opportunities that empower every young person to thrive.”
2026 National Youth Award Recipients
Youth in Education – Mia-Lionelle Henry
Youth in Sports (Senior) – Deajah Smith
Youth in Sports (Junior) – Carmelo Cartwright
Youth in Entrepreneurship – Wayne Gardiner
Youth in Art and Culture – Tinell Garland
Youth in Performing Arts – Deangelo McLeod
Youth in Literary Arts – Jeffca Forbes
Youth in Religion – Onilia Richards
Environmental Stewardship Award – Luis Serpas
Youth in Health and Wellness – Maya Saunders
Youth in Media – Zoya Faessler
Youth Influencer – Ashad Bain
Youth in Agriculture – Tevin Ramsey
Young Professional – Arnelle Taylor-Hall
Youth in Community Service – A’Janae Robinson
Youth in Innovation and STEM – Myah Audae Simpson
Youth in Cosmetology and Barbering – Harolyn Forbes
Youth Ally – Charvis Ferguson
Personal Triumph – Jermaine Williams Jr.
Young Artisan / Skilled Trade – Imran Hoza
Youth in Tourism – Compton Clarke
Unsung Hero – Kenson Odena
Premier’s Award – Chelsea Been
Youth Organisation – Key Club
Corporate Award – Graceway Communities
Stalwart in Youth Development (Providenciales) – Roxann Wake Forbes
Stalwart in Youth Development (North Caicos) – Reniko Taylor
Stalwart in Youth Development (Middle Caicos) – Brieanna Forbes
Stalwart in Youth Development (South Caicos) – Camiko Lewis
Stalwart in Youth Development (Grand Turk) – Shakiah Lewis
Stalwart in Youth Development (Salt Cay) – Enrique Dickenson
Unity Through Excellence Award – Bereniece Dickenson Martinez
The Department of Youth Affairs extends sincere gratitude to all partners, sponsors, volunteers, performers, presenters, and supporters who contributed to the planning and successful execution of this national event. Appreciation is also extended to those who tuned in via social media and radio broadcasts.
Members of the public who were unable to attend are invited to re-watch the full live broadcast on the Turks and Caicos Islands Government Facebook Page. The official National Youth Awards Booklet may also be accessed online for detailed information on nominees and award categories at: https://online.pubhtml5.com/kvhar/sgga/.
The National Youth Awards continues to stand as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging young people throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands to pursue excellence, serve their communities, and realise their full potential.
Dr. Dre, Dionne Warwick named American Music Honors recipients
Dr. Dre and Dionne Warwick will be honored at the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music's American Music Honors.
This year's other honorees include Patti Smith, The E Street Band and the Doors.
Launched in 2023, the American Music Honors recognizes entertainers whose contributions have a lasting impact on the music industry.
"The artists we're honoring this year didn't just shape popular music—they helped define it," Robert Santelli, founding executive director of the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music, said. "Their work reflects the creativity, risk-taking, and cultural exchange that sit at the heart of American music, and it's a privilege to celebrate their legacies."
At the fourth annual event, taking place at Monmouth University in New Jersey on April 18, Springsteen will present Warwick with her honor. Producer Jimmy Iovine will represent for Dr. Dre.
Tickets go on sale March 18.
Post Cabinet Statement - Tuesday 10th February 2026
Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 5th meeting of the Cabinet held on Tuesday February 10th, 2026, at the Governor’s Office, Providenciales. All members of Cabinet were present with the exception of Hon. Rhondalee Knowles/Attorney General and Hon. Otis Morris/Minister for Public Safety. Ms. Khalila Astwood, sat as Acting Attorney General.
At this meeting Cabinet:
Noted the Consultant’s recommendations in relation to the Current State Assessment (CSA) of the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Forces Customs Tariff Administration.
Approved for negotiations to be undertaken re: the acquisition of land on the island of Grand Turk.
Approved the establishment of a National Commemorative committee for the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Establishment of Ministerial Government in the Turk and Caicos Islands.
Approved in principle, the establishment of a new Statutory Body to market and promote financial services in the TCI.
Approved the Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
Approved the Whistleblower Protection Policy for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
Approved the purchase of Provo Children’s Home.
Approved the deferral of the first year high value appropriation for the Implementation of the Labour Market Information System.
Noted the award of the following contracts in line with the process according to the provisions of the Public Procurement Act; Contract Award Notification:
PN 005803, TR 25/20 Community Roads All Islands
TCIPA 02/2025 TR 25/14 Port Security Patrol Cars
TCIP 04/2025, TR 25/18, PLS Mobile Security Guard House
Further information on these matters will be provided by Ministers in due course.
Seahawks beat Patriots to win Super Bowl 29-13
Dominating the New England Patriots in a defensive game, the Seattle Seahawks won Super Bowl 60, 29-13. It was the franchise's second Super Bowl title in its history.
After a first half that had no touchdowns and ended with the Seahawks leading purely on field goal points courtesy of kicker Jason Myers, Seattle scored the first touchdown of the game in fourth quarter, bringing the Seahawks' lead to 19-0.
The Pats eventually scored two touchdowns of their own, also in the fourth quarter, but it wasn't enough to beat Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold and his team. Darnold is now the first starting quarterback in history to win a Super Bowl after playing with more than five teams.
Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III was named MVP, finishing the night with 135 rushing yards and 26 receiving yards. He's the first running back to be named Super Bowl MVP since 1998.
Myers, meanwhile, set a Super Bowl record by scoring five field goals.
Source- ABC
RAYMOND GARDINER HIGH SCHOOL CADETS HOST PROMOTION BADGING CEREMONY
The Raymond Gardiner High School Cadets of the Turks and Caicos Islands Cadet Corps (TCICC), Charlie Company, held its Promotion Badging Ceremony on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the school’s car park, marking a significant milestone in the leadership development of its young cadets.
During the ceremony, seven cadets were promoted from the rank of Private to Lance Corporal (LCpl), in recognition of their discipline, commitment, leadership potential, and adherence to the core values of the Cadet Corps. The promotions were conducted under the auspices of Lieutenant Colonel Beckles, Lieutenant Jackson, and Sergeant Wright.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests and stakeholders, including the Director of Youth Affairs, Ms. Jatavia Howell; the District Commissioners of North Caicos and Middle Caicos, Mr. Jasmin Walkin and Mr. Osbourne Delancy respectively; former District Commissioner for North Caicos, Ms. Cynclair Musgrove; Principal of Raymond Gardiner High School, Mrs. Janet Walkin; Youth Officer, Ms. Nicole Gardiner; officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force; the Company Sergeant Major (CSM) and other officers of Bravo Company from Providenciales; staff of Raymond Gardiner High School; students; parents; and members of the wider community.
Speakers at the ceremony commended the promoted cadets for their dedication and encouraged them to lead by example, uphold discipline, and continue to strive for excellence both within the Cadet Corps and in their academic pursuits.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Cadet Corps is a youth development organization aimed at fostering discipline, leadership, civic responsibility, and national pride among young people across the islands. Through a structured programme that includes drill and ceremony, physical training, leadership development, community service, and basic life skills, the Cadet Corps plays a vital role in preparing youth to become responsible citizens and future leaders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Participation in the Cadet Corps promotes teamwork, respect, confidence, and a strong sense of service to country.
Although unable to attend, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture, extended warm congratulations to the promoted cadets on their achievements, describing their advancement as a powerful reflection of the positive impact of the Turks and Caicos Islands Cadet Corps on youth development. The Minister encouraged high school students across the islands to consider joining the Cadet Corps, highlighting its role in cultivating leadership, discipline, teamwork, and strong values. She noted that the programme plays a vital role in shaping confident, responsible young people who are well prepared to serve as future leaders of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Raymond Gardiner High School Cadet Unit continues to be an important pillar in the development of students on North Caicos, providing positive mentorship and opportunities for personal growth. The Promotion Badging Ceremony served not only as a recognition of achievement but also as a reminder of the Cadet Corps’ ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and nation-building.
Post Cabinet Statement - Thursday 5th February 2026
Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 4th meeting of the Cabinet held on Thursday February 5th, 2026 and continued Friday 6th February, 2026 at the Governor’s Office, Providenciales. All members of Cabinet were present.
At this meeting Cabinet:
Approved the Immigration Protocol Documents relating to three developments.
Approved Government’s support to the TCI Football Association to submit a formal bid to host the CONCACAF Congress in 2028 or 2029.
Approved the establishment of the Screening, Admissions Review and Dismissal Committee (SARDC) as the national mechanism for the management of Special Education Needs (SEN) in the TCI.
Approved the draft amendments to the Destination Management Fee Act 2023.
Noted the progress update on the Drag-Net Steering Committee, a cross‑government, multi‑agency body established to coordinate and oversee actions aimed at strengthening revenue collection and compliance across Government.
Approved the key performance indicators of the new Chief Executive Officer of the TCI National Health Insurance Board.
Approved in principle the formal establishment of a Department of Parks and Recreation within the existing structure of the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission.
Approved the publication of the Statutory Bodies 2nd Quarterly Special Purpose Financial Report for FY 2025-2026 .
Approved the development and agreement of a donation policy to manage the distribution of funds given by the TCIG.
Approved for works to be conducted for an extension and deepening of the Bellefield Landing Channel.
Approved amendments to the Turks and Caicos Islands Fisheries Ordinance to explicitly ban the use of nets for the capture of bonefish.
Approved the drafting of regulations under the Petroleum Ordinance to modernize and strengthen the national framework governing petroleum and petroleum products.
Approved the revised estimates for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College to address the funding increase for the student subsistence programme.
Approved the issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) and engagement of a lead Consultant for the Sustainable Tourism and Spatial Development Policy and the Establishment of the National Carrying Capacity Oversight Committee.
Approved the establishment of a National Carrying Capacity Oversight Committee to provide routine sustainability intelligence and early warning signals to Cabinet and Ministers.
Approved Planning Application SC99 for the Construction of a Two Storey Office Building on Block and Parcel 20307/3.
Approved Planning Application PR 18650 TCI Community College-Renovations and Retrofitting and Car Park Providenciales.
Approved draft legislation for public consultation in relation to Civil Partnerships.
Noted the recommendations of the National Parks Review Report and agreed amendments to the National Parks Act to incorporate changes to the National Parks Classification.
Noted the update regarding IHC
Noted the round robin approvals:
Committee of Supply Changes for the Consolidated Fund for Supplementary No. 2 Fy 2025-026
Approval for the extension of the Appointment of the Chairperson of the Procurement Board.
Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.
JOINT AGENCY INITIATIVE DELIVERS FLOOD SAFETY EDUCATION TO SCHOOLS
A joint agency initiative was successfully conducted over the course of a week, January 19-23, 2026 to deliver flood safety education to schools in communities that were affected by flooding in Providenciales earlier in the month. The initiative was led collaboratively by the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) and the Environmental Health Department (EHD) to strengthen student awareness and preparedness for flood safety.
Schools visited during the week were; Enid Capron Primary School, Oseta Jolly Primary School, Elite Highschool and Shining Stars Preparatory School.
During the sessions, DDME provided vital information on what flooding is, its common causes, and the potential dangers it poses. Students were also guided on how to prepare for emergencies, including practical tips on assembling an emergency kit with essential supplies. The team from the EHD presented on the health risks associated with flooding, such as waterborne diseases and environmental hazards. Presentations and speeches emphasized proper hygiene practices before, during and after flood events to reduce the risk of illness and promote overall safety.
Commenting on the week’s events, Bernadya Smith, Public Information and Media Manager for DDME, stated: “Heavy rainfall at the start of the year underscored the importance of proactive education. By equipping students with accurate, practical information, both departments hope to empower persons to make informed decisions, to contribute to safer communities.”
“Students responded positively to the presentations and actively engaged in interactive sessions by answering questions and participating in activities. They showed strong interest in the slogan “No playing in flood waters”, and were successfully educated on the environmental dangers of flooding. As a result, students are now better equipped with the knowledge to be proactive, prepared and able to make informed decisions in future flooding events.” Ms. Felicity K. Husband-Patrick, Environmental Health Officer for EHD.
The joint agencies remain committed to ongoing public education efforts and will continue working together and separately to enhance disaster preparedness and health awareness across the Turks and Caicos Islands throughout the year.
IMF says Bahamas economy has strengthened in recent years
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says theeconomy of The Bahamas has strengthened in recent years with a robust post-pandemic tourism sector being the key driver of economic growth and fiscal revenues.
The IMF executive board has completed the Article IV Consultation with Nassau considering and endorsing staff appraisal.
According to the IMF, real gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 3.4 per cent in 2024 and that growth remained resilient in the first half of 2025, supported by construction and cruise tourism. It said that the unemployment rate stood at 9.3 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, while inflation decelerated (1.3 per cent in July 2025), partly reflecting lower global energy prices.
The fiscal position continued to improve in the last fiscal year. Driven by tax revenues and expenditure containment, the primary balance remained in surplus and the fiscal deficit narrowed to 0.5 per cent of GDP in the financial year 2024/25.
The IMF said that growth is expected to be around 2.8 per cent in 2025, and then it would gradually slow toward 1½ per cent.
In its appraisal, the IMF executive board said risks to economic growth are broadly balanced, with downside risks including a potential global slowdown and natural disasters, and upside risks entailing greater-than-expected effects of public and private infrastructure projects linked to tourism and the electricity reform. Inflation remains low.
“Additional policy measures are necessary to achieve the authorities’ medium-term target for central government debt. A primary surplus was reached again in financial year 2024/25, and the financial year 2025/26 budget targets an overall surplus.”
The executive said while declining, public debt remains elevated and that going forward, new revenue-enhancing and expenditure-optimizing measures should be prioritised to achieve the authorities’ 50 per cent of GDP target for central government debt.
It said that these measures can include introducing corporate and personal income taxes, rationalising tax expenditures, raising the standard value added tax (VAT) rate, and reducing transfers to state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
The executive board said that these efforts can give space to invest more in priority areas, such as education and resilient infrastructure.
But the board acknowledged that more work is needed to strengthen fiscal institutions and reduce fiscal risks.
It said an immediate priority should be to improve fiscal reporting and enhance the institutional framework for private public partnerships (PPPs). The board is also critical to accurately assess and mitigate fiscal risks arising from SOEs.
The IMF executive board said financial sector policies should continue to aim at preserving financial stability.
“Systemic financial stability risks remain moderate. As bank credit to the private sector increases, safeguarding banks’ resilience is crucial, including by monitoring potential risks stemming from banks’ exposure to the sovereign.
“The oversight of nonbanks should be strengthened, and closing data gaps is a priority. Operationalizing real estate price indices is still needed. Planned legal reforms can help improve resolution frameworks and safety nets. Reducing the ceiling on central bank advances to the government would support the exchange rate peg, and it is essential to maintain efforts to implement the 2024 DARE Act. Actions to enhance risk-based AML/CFT supervision and promote financial inclusion should continue.”
The IMF said that fostering economic resilience and investing in human and physical capital should ease supply-side constraints to growth.
“Policies to raise productivity, together with fiscal consolidation, can help narrow external imbalances, given that the external position is moderately weaker than the level implied by medium-term fundamentals and desirable policies. Ongoing infrastructure projects in hotels and airports can alleviate capacity constraints in tourism.
“To reduce vulnerable employment and lessen informality, it is important to cut red tape for businesses, strengthen education, and continue expanding training and upskilling opportunities.”
The IMF said trade diversification could strengthen economic resilience and reduce import costs with more benefits for consumers if coupled with greater product market competition.
Source- CMC