Contraband Accused Granted Bail
JIMMY TOUSSAINT of North Back Salina Grand Turk has been charged under the Prisons Ordinance with the offence- Introducing Prohibited Articles.
Toussaint, 20, was charged on 17th March 2025 and was granted $1500 bail. He is scheduled to appear in court on 03rd April 2025.
On Sunday, February 23, 2025, during a visit to H.M. Prison—Home of the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation in Grand Turk—prison officers had cause to search items brought in by a male.
It is alleged that during checks, contraband was found hidden inside food destined for an inmate.
Officers of the RT&CIPF promptly responded, and the suspect was arrested on suspicion.
TCI SPECIAL EDUCATION TEAM ATTENDS COUNCIL FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN (CEC) CONVENTION
A team of Special Education professionals from the Turks and Caicos Islands participated in the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Convention & Expo 2025, held at the Baltimore Convention Centre in Baltimore, Maryland, from March 11- March 15, 2025.
This annual event is a key platform for advancing best practices, policies, and innovations in the field of special education, bringing together educators, researchers, and advocates dedicated to supporting individuals with diverse learning needs.
Representing the TCI at the convention were Ms. Tevynn Lewis, Ms. Denecia Harris, Ms. Makiliah Forde, and Ms. Faaida James, Education Officer for Special Education. Over the course of the event, the team engaged in specialized training sessions, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, focusing on areas such as individualized education plans (IEPs), behavioral management strategies, inclusive classroom practices, and assistive technology.
A major highlight of the convention was a keynote presentation by Dr. Temple Grandin, a leading voice in autism awareness, who provided valuable perspectives on understanding and supporting neurodiverse students. Additionally, sessions led by Dr. Mary Brownell underscored the significance of collaborative teaching models and the implementation of research-based interventions to improve student outcomes.
Attending the CEC Convention provided the TCI delegation with new strategies, resources, and professional connections that will contribute to the ongoing development of Special Education services in the islands. The insights gained will be instrumental in enhancing classroom instruction, strengthening student support systems, and promoting inclusive education across schools.
The Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, commented, “Our participation in the CEC Convention & Expo 2025 reaffirms the Government’s commitment to providing quality education for all students, particularly those with exceptionalities. The insights and strategies gained from this global forum will further strengthen our efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment across our schools. I commend our Special Education professionals for their dedication to continuous learning and their unwavering commitment to the success of every child.”
The Ministry of Education remains committed to professional growth and capacity-building initiatives that empower educators to meet the diverse needs of students. The participation of the Special Education team in this global event marks another step toward ensuring that all children in the Turks and Caicos Islands receive the support they need to succeed academically and socially.
TCHTA HOLDS AGM AND ELECTS NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and bi-annual Board of Directors Elections at the Beaches Resort Villages & Spa Key West Conference Room in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.
The meeting began with remarks from special Guest Speaker, the Premier, Honourable C. Washington Misick, who addressed attendees on his government’s keen interest in developing stronger public-private partnerships, noting that the degree of collaboration enjoyed in the past needs to be “turbo-charged” to meet the demands of the ever-changing tourism landscape. The Premier gave the packed room of industry stakeholders a critical outlook in areas related to crime, financial services, and the current state of Experience Turks & Caicos.
The Minister of Tourism, Honourable Zhavargo Jolly, also made an appearance, taking to the podium to extend his support to the association. The Minister shared that the Premier has
empowered him to “act audaciously” in his work for the industry and reminded TCHTA members that he has an open-door policy and is eager to work in tandem for the betterment of the tourism sector.
Following this, TCHTA Committee Chairs James McAnally, Stacey-Ann Wharton-Albert, Gerry Dallas, Robin Janse, Snjezana Andrews, Colin Sterling, and Karen Whitt shared their annual reports highlighting the work of the association in the areas of Advocacy, People Development, Villas, Sustainable Tourism, Membership, Finance, and Marketing.
This segment was punctuated by Stacy Cox, CEO, sharing her thanks to the outgoing Board of Directors for the high level of commitment and engagement they displayed during their tenure. Cox then officially retired the 2023-2025 Board and election ballots were distributed. Plaques of appreciation were presented to the outgoing Board Members in recognition of their dedicated service.
Ballots were counted and the results were revealed thereafter. James McAnally, whose nomination for the new term went unopposed, will serve as President of the TCHTA 2025-2027 Board, flanked by:
· Stacey-Ann Wharton-Albert, Sailrock South Caicos – Vice President
· Gerry Dallas, TKCA Villa Rentals – Secretary
· Craig James, Wymara Resort & Villas – Treasurer
· Lindy Rigby, West Bay Club – Director
· Aleisa Walkin, Alexandra Resort – Director
· Louella Brezovar-Van Veen, The Ritz-Carlton – Director
· John Hazard, Grace Bay Club – Director
· Jeff Morgan, The Palms - Director
· S. Omega Simmons, SOS Media – Director
· Snjezana Andrews, Caicos Wheels – Director
· Alizee Zimmerman, TCI Reef Fund – Director
Appointed and Ex-Officio members were also added to the group:
· Karen Whitt, The Hartling Group - Director
· Nikheel Advani, Grace Bay Resorts – Director
· Andreas Naegele, Turks & Caicos Collection – Director
· Yvette Marcelin, TWA Marcelin Wolf – Ex-Office Member
· Selvyn Hawkin, Turks & Caicos Airports Authority – Ex-Officio Member
· Marie McKenzie, Carnival Corporation & PLC – Ex-Officio Member
The role of Chairman, typically held by the immediate Past President, will be filled by Past President Todd Foss.
McAnally remarked, “It has been a profound honor to serve as President, working alongside this dynamic and dedicated team for the past two years. The work we have accomplished together has laid a powerful foundation, and I am more determined than ever to strengthen our collaboration with the Government and key stakeholders. As we move forward, our unified efforts will pave the way for impactful, sustainable growth and prosperity for our tourism industry and the people of these beautiful islands.”
The Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association is a member-based organization. Board Members are nominated and elected by Members of the Association. The organization extends its thanks to its members for their participation in the nomination and voting process. Special acknowledgment is given to Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages & Spa for hosting this year’s AGM.
IMF says Antigua and Barbuda’s public debt reduced significantly
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says Antigua and Barbuda’s post-pandemic economic expansion is continuing with real economic output estimated to have surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with growth estimated at 4.3 percent.
The Washington-based financial institution said its executive board has endorsed the staff appraisal of the country, noting that the recovery in nominal gross domestic product (GDP), along with improved fiscal balances, brought down the public debt from around 100 percent of GDP in 2020 to 67 percent in 2024.
“However, gross financing needs are projected to remain around 10 percent of GDP in the medium term. Substantial domestic and external arrears, albeit with domestic arrears uncertain in size, have limited financing options.”
The IMF noted that the fiscal primary balance improved to 4.6 percent in 2024, aided by indirect tax increases, a broader economic recovery, and one-off factors. It said the 2025 budget envisages stronger tax revenues and higher capital spending.
According to Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) preliminary estimates, the current account deficit narrowed to seven percent of GDP in 2024, reflecting both a higher service trade balance, mainly tourism receipts, and a smaller goods deficit due to a contraction in imports.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows were resilient to tightening global financial conditions and continued to support ongoing hotel construction. Credit growth is recovering, with nonperforming loans contained.
In its assessment, the executive board noted that as the recovery matures, the IMF staff projects economic growth to moderate from three percent in 2025 to 2.5 percent over the medium term.
“After an increase in inflation in 2024, in part reflecting one-off factors, underlying price pressures are expected to dissipate. The external position in 2024 is assessed to be moderately weaker than the level implied by medium-term fundamentals and desirable policies.”
The IMF executive board said that efforts to raise revenue and address debt and fiscal challenges bore fruit in 2024, though further steps will be needed to restore debt sustainability, address the stock of outstanding arrears, and reduce gross financing needs in the medium term.
“Risks are currently tilted to the downside, although upside risks are also present. Downside risks emanate from elevated uncertainty about the global outlook; a deepening of geoeconomic fragmentation; commodity price volatility; climate-related vulnerabilities; and capacity constraints in the construction sector.
“Upside risks stem from stronger demand for tourism; improved air connectivity; new cruise port facilities; hosting of special events; and the intensification of productivity-enhancing structural reforms, which could support higher medium- and long-term growth.”
The executive board said that addressing external and domestic arrears is key to broadening financing options. It noted that while the fall in nominal debt in 2024 is welcome, outstanding arrears to domestic suppliers and to the Paris Club remain obstacles to debt sustainability and constrain Antigua and Barbuda’s potential access to external and domestic financing.
“Given the additional vulnerabilities stemming from climate change and the resulting substantial adaption and resilience-building investment needs, efforts to address the current debt challenges, bolster government revenues, and improve public financial management are all the more critical.”
The IMF executive board welcomed recent improvements in tax revenue, with further domestic revenue mobilization needed in the medium term to ensure fiscal sustainability. It said Antigua and Barbuda’s tax revenues remain below the authorities’ fiscal resilience guideline targets and are low by peer country standards.
“The authorities’ 2024 Budget measures have started to close the gap, but more will be needed in the medium term. To mobilize revenue without recourse to a personal income tax or higher ABST (Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax) rates, near-term priorities could include tighter control of tax exemptions, transitioning to HS2022 classification in customs, and modernizing the framework for property taxation.
“Intensifying efforts to introduce a single window system at customs and to operationalize systems to allow e-filing, e-payment and e-registration of taxes is warranted. Introducing a large taxpayer unit as well as modernized IT systems would strengthen tax administration.”
The executive board assessment said better targeted social assistance would enhance inclusion while curbing inefficiencies.
It said the current framework of social protection is fragmented across sectors and ministries. Staff sees scope to streamline these social programmes to reduce overlap and tailor social assistance to the most vulnerable households.
“In this vein, staff encourages the development of a centralized information system or unified database to maintain accurate records of all beneficiaries, track support received, and identify gaps or duplications in coverage.”
The IMF said that room remains to strengthen fiscal institutions and oversight, building on recent progress and welcomes the operationalization of the Fiscal Responsibility Oversight Committee.
But it said to promote transparency and help build public understanding, staff encourages publication of FROC reports once further experience has been gained.
“These goals would also be served by parliamentary endorsement of the Fiscal Resilience Guidelines and the medium-term fiscal framework. Statutory exemptions should be consistent with the Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority Act and the Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority should monitor the approved projects.”
Source-CMC
Trinidad and Tobago to hold general election on April 28
Prime Minister Stuart Young has named April 28 as the date for the general election in Trinidad and Tobago.
Young, who was sworn into office on Monday, advised President Christine Kangaloo to dissolve Parliament as of midnight on Tuesday.
Nomination Day is April 4
Successful Interception of Illegal Vessel
Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on Friday March 14, 2025, the United States Air Support (USAS) Unit detected an illegal migrant vessel approximately 15 miles south of Providenciales.
The vessel was reported to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, which deployed two response vessels. In a coordinated effort, the USAS and the Marine Branch successfully intercepted the vessel.
TWO HUNDRED and SEVENTY-SEVEN (277) Haitian migrants were being transported.
The breakdown is as follows: TWO HUNDRED and THIRTY-FOUR (234) males and FORTY-THREE (43) females (including three pregnant women and one minor).
A Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessel conducting patrols under the Shiprider Agreement was diverted to assist in transporting the individuals to Providenciales. The illegals were then handed over to the TCI Border Force, aided by the TCI Regiment, for processing.
This marks yet another successful interdiction reinforcing the commitment of all involved to combat irregular migration. The RT&CIPF takes this opportunity to commend the personnel involved for their dedication to border security and public safety. We are warning individuals facilitating these unlawful activities to desist and strongly advise against persons attempting to enter the TCI illegally. The RT&CIPF remains resolute in deterring and disrupting human smuggling operations while safeguarding our national security.
The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to anonymously provide any information on Illegal entry into the TCI.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information anonymously.
TCI Delegation of Kindergarten Teachers Attend 44th Annual Pump-Up Primary Conference
A delegation of kindergarten teachers led by Miss Heidy Williams, the Education Officer responsible for Early Childhood Education, and Dr. Keran Williams, the Education Officer in charge of training and mentorship, recently attended the 44th Annual Illinois ASCD Conference under the theme Pump-Up Primary. This prestigious event gathered pre-K, kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade educators from across the United States and beyond, emphasizing best practices, emerging trends, and research-based strategies to support primary education. The kindergarten teachers were eager to engage with new literacy and numeracy development approaches, classroom involvement, and student-centered learning. These insights will enhance their teaching and significantly improve foundational education in these islands, ultimately benefiting the educational experiences of our young learners.
The conference featured inspiring keynote speakers, including Tron Young, who delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the evolving role of education- challenging educators to consider whether they are simply providing information or impacting students’ lives. Another keynote speaker, Adam Peterson, emphasized the power of building strong relationships with students, reinforcing meaningful connections that foster academic and personal growth.
The Education Officers expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to attend the Illinois ASCD Conference alongside a dedicated group of kindergarten teachers. They highlighted the invaluable insights gained, the engaging discussions, and the impactful strategies that will enhance early childhood education in the TCI. The experience was inspiring and transformative, reinforcing the importance of continuous professional development. They returned with fresh perspectives, innovative teaching strategies, and renewed motivation to enhance learning experiences for young children in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Minister of Education, the Honourable Rachel Taylor commented, "Investing in the professional growth of our educators is investing in the future of our nation. The insights gained from the Illinois ASCD Conference will undoubtedly enrich early childhood education in the Turks and Caicos Islands, empowering our teachers to foster stronger foundations for lifelong learning. We commend our Education Officers and dedicated kindergarten teachers for their commitment to excellence and their unwavering dedication to shaping young minds."
Trump administration ignores judge's order to turn deportation planes around: Sources
President Donald Trump's administration made a calculated decision to ignore a judge's directive to turn around two flights containing hundreds of alleged Venezuelan gang members, sources familiar with the matter told ABC News.
The verbal order from James Boasberg, the chief judge of the Washington, D.C., District Court, explicitly told the government to turn around any aircraft that had already departed the country if it was still in the air.
However, top lawyers and officials in the administration determined that since the flights were over international waters, Boasberg's order did not apply.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed on Sunday evening that the administration “did not ‘refuse to comply’ with a court order.”
She said the order was issued after the alleged gang members “had already been removed from U.S. territory,” arguing that “the written order and the administration’s actions do not conflict.”
Source-ABC
Sean 'Diddy' Combs pleads not guilty to superseding indictment, jury selection to begin May 5
Sean "Diddy" Combs pleaded not guilty Friday to a superseding indictment that charges him with forcing one of his employees into sex acts.
Combs entered the New York court unshackled in a khaki two-piece jail uniform. He smiled when he saw members of his family, including his mother, seated in the courtroom.
One of the new indictments expands the time frame of allegedly criminal conduct and adds two alleged victims. The second new indictment said Combs forced employees to work long hours under threat of physical and reputational harm and forced at least one employee to engage in sex acts with him.
Combs was arrested last year after being charged in a sprawling sex trafficking indictment. He has denied all the allegations and has already pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Opening statements for Combs' trial are scheduled to begin May 12.
The judge decided potential jurors will begin filling out questionnaires on April 28 before in-person jury selection begins May 5. The aim is to question 300 potential jurors per day until a jury is seated.
Federal prosecutors said they have as many as 20 potential witnesses, aside from the three main alleged victims, who could testify about Combs’ conduct.
Many of them are "incredibly frightened" at becoming publicly known or known to Combs’ legal team, prosecutor Mitzi Steiner said.
The judge said their identities must be disclosed to the defense in the coming days.
"You're not trying to use video that would in any way be deceptive?" Judge Arun Subramanian asked.
"Of course not, your honor," Steiner.
The defense has insisted the video — which was first obtained by CNN — is "deceptive" and signaled they would attempt to exclude it from trial.
"It’s a misleading piece of evidence. It’s a deceptive piece of evidence,” Combs' attorney, Marc Agnifilo, said.
"The defense has confirmed, through a forensic video analysis of the CNN footage that the government provided to this Court and of the footage provided by CNN in response to the defense subpoena, that all CNN video footage was substantially altered in significant respects. This includes covering the time stamp and then changing the video sequence. It also includes speeding up the video to make it falsely appear that the actions in the video are taking place faster than they are. As a result, the CNN videos do not fairly and accurately depict the events in question," the defense said.
In a statement, a CNN spokesperson denied the claim that the video was altered.
"CNN never altered the video and did not destroy the original copy of the footage, which was retained by the source," the spokesperson said. "CNN aired the story about the video several months before Combs was arrested."
In response to CNN's statement, Combs' defense insisted, "Our written and oral communications with CNN’s counsel was clear - they destroyed the original video file they received from their source."
After the hotel video was released last May, Combs posted a video on Instagram apologizing for the incident.
"My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in that video," he said in the video. "I was disgusted then when I did it. I'm disgusted now."
Source-ABC
South Dock Road Male Charged
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Traffic Enforcement Unit has charged DIEMSLOR SAINT-SURIN for the offence of Using another Person’s Driver’s License.
Saint-Surin, 30, of South Dock Road, Providenciales, has been granted bail in the sum of three thousand dollars ($3,000.00) with one surety. He is scheduled to appear before the court on 27 March 2025.
The accused was charged following investigations into an incident on 11 March, 2025, along Industrial Drive.
The RT&CIPF reminds the public that the unauthorised use of another person’s license is a serious offence.
We encourage drivers to comply with the laws governing the Turks and Caicos Islands.