CONCACAF announces fixtures for Nations League play-in
The winless Guyana Jaguars will face off against the unbeaten Barbados Tridents next month for a spot in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The highly anticipated contest is among four matches recently announced by CONCACAF as part of its Nations League play-in.
The play-in fixtures are contested by the two bottom teams from each group of League A (teams ranked fifth and sixth) and the top four teams from League C (three group winners and the best team among the group runners-up).
After home-and-away play, the aggregate score winner in each matchup will advance to the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup prelims.
Barbados, who played unbeaten in League C to gain promotion back to League B, will play the Jaguars, who have been demoted to League B after finishing last in their League A group, in the first leg on November 15 at the Wildey Astro Turf.
The Jaguars will return home for the second leg at the National Track & Field Leonara on November 19.
In the other fixtures, Cuba will play St Kitts & Nevis, Guadeloupe take on Cayman Islands, while French Guiana will do battle with Belize.
Caribbean countries lose almost three per cent of GDP annually
The Director of the Western Hemisphere Department (WHD) of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Rodrigo Valdes, says countries in the Caribbean lose 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) in capital annually on average.
“It does not happen every year, but every 10 years you can have a 25 per cent loss. So, you have to be prepared for that,” said Valdes as he responded to suggestions that while there have been some glowing words about how Caribbean countries have handled their policies over the past couple of years, several of these countries are vulnerable, particularly as a result of climate change.
Asked what policies or what reforms can be applied to provide a buffer with regard to climate activity that has been affecting the Caribbean, Valdes said the reality is that the IMF has have been working for years with other partners in terms of regional arrangements.
“We have development banks in the region, the IADB (Inter American Development Bank), we have CAF (Charities Aid Foundation), we have FLAR (Latin American Reserve Fund) as another arrangement that lends money to central banks.
“So perhaps the issue here is not whether we have these new institutions, but how to coordinate well. We are convinced that the more coordination, the less fragmentation, that everybody works together is better. Nobody needs the monopoly of this, but we need to work together.”
He said in terms of the Caribbean, it is very important to face reality for the Caribbean and they they are doing it.
“There’s a striking number. Countries in the Caribbean lose 2.5 per cent of GDP in capital per year, on average. It does not happen every year, but every 10 years you can have a 25 per cent loss.
“This is a multilayer system. You have to be careful with investment. Investment has to be more resilient. You have to work in the insurance side, in contingency bonds, for example. So, there is a lot to do. Some countries have been very good on that. Let me take the case of Jamaica and the last hurricane. They had some possibilities to use contingencies for that case,’ Valdes added.
WHD deputy director, Ana Corbacho, said certainly, the Caribbean region is very vulnerable to climate change shocks.
“And we are concerned that the patterns of these shocks may be changing, becoming more severe and more frequent, which certainly requires more action on the government side and the multilateral community to support Caribbean economies.
“In particular on policy measures, what we have emphasized in our dialogue is the need to integrate better mitigation and adaptation strategies in public investment plans,” her said.
The IMF official said that fostering more active participation of private finance in increasing investment for climate resilience, as well as reducing the consumption of fuels through electrification.
“An upside for the Caribbean is the green energy transition. It could certainly give countries a chance to enhance resilience by investing in renewable energies, and through that, boosting competitiveness and lower exposure to climate change shocks<’ she said.
Last week, the IMF said while still growing generally faster than the rest of the region, Caribbean economies are expected to slow in 2024 and 2025, on the back of a deceleration in tourism.
But it aso noted that growth in the Caribbean, excluding Guyana, is slowing as the post-pandemic tourism rebound is fading after reaching pre-pandemic levels.
“By contrast, growth in the CAPDR (Central America, Panama, and the Dominican Republic) region is expected to remain relatively robust, reflecting strong private consumption buoyed by sustained remittances inflows,” the Washington-based financial institution said in its “Regional Economic Outlook for the Western Hemisphere” released here.
Under the theme “Rebalancing Policies and Pressing on with Reforms,” the IMF said inflation in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is projected to gradually decline from 4.7 percent at the end of 2023 to 4.3 and 3.3 percent by the end of 2024 and 2025, respectively.
“While inflation is already within the target range in most LAC economies, it will take time for it to reach the target—in most cases, until 2026—partly because of the lagged effect of tight policies, the gradual process of global disinflation, and the delayed normalization of administered prices in some countries.
Regarding downside risks to growth, the IMF said upside risks to inflation risks to near-term growth are generally tilted to the downside, especially in the Caribbean where downside risks largely dominate because of the possibility of climate-related shocks and weaker tourism demand.
“Throughout the region, external downside risks to growth relate mainly to tighter-than-expected US monetary policy and greater commodity price volatility. Policy uncertainty and social tensions are key domestic downside risks as these could hinder the implementation of economic policies and reforms.
OECS Commission hosts virtual flag raising ceremony for St.Vincent
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission hosted a virtual flag-raising ceremony on Sunday to commemorate the 45th Anniversary of the Independence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which is being held under the theme “45 Years of Togetherness, Prosperity and Perseverance.”
Addressing the virtual event, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, emphasized the significance of unity and progress in the region.
“We have our strengths and possibilities, and we have our weaknesses and limitations. But through it all, we have been able to build a magnificent component of our Caribbean civilization at a solid material level,” stated Prime Minister Gonsalves. “Forty-five years of becoming more prosperous, more secure, we’ve persevered, and we have uplifted ourselves.”
“we are on a trajectory for further upliftment and ennoblement,” Prime Minister Gonsalves said.
Didacus Jules, OECS Director General, commended Gonsalves on the resilience of his country having over the past 45 years weathered a pandemic, several storms and other natural disasters including volcanic eruptions.
“Togetherness has been your strength, prosperity your goal, and perseverance your guide. As you look to the future, you stand on firm ground, ready to embrace the opportunities and overcome the challenges that lie ahead.”
Attendees to the virtual ceremony watched as Officers of the St. Lucia Cadet Corps hoisted the flag on the grounds of the OECS Headquarters in St. Lucia, while the national anthem of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was played.
In St. Vincent, the national parade by the Royal St. Vincent & the Grenadines Police Force and the address by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves is slated to begin at 6pm on Sunday.
Source-CMC
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE PREPARES FOR REMEMBRANCE DAY 2024
The Turks and Caicos Islands will commemorate Allied, Commonwealth and British personnel who fought in the two world wars of the 20th Century and in subsequent conflicts on Remembrance Day on Sunday, November 10th, 2024.
Providenciales Remembrance Day Service will be held at St. Monica's Anglican Church, Leeward Highway, at 11 a.m. Her Excellency, Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, the Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick and the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Edwin Astwood, will lay wreaths at the War Memorial on Providenciales.
Grand Turk Remembrance Day Service will be held at 9:45 a.m. at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral
Front Street. Her Excellency, Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Honourable Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson and Opposition Appointed Member Alvin Garland will lay wreaths at the Cenotaph.
South Caicos Remembrance Day Service will be held at 12:30 p.m. at St. George's Anglican Church in South Caicos.
Salt Cay Remembrance Day Service will be held at St. John's Anglican Church at 10:00 am.
Organisations that will also lay wreaths at each service include the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the TCI Regiment, UK representative Royal Marines, the TCIG Medical Department, Scouts, Guides, Brownies, Rotary International, Soroptimists International and the Red Cross.
Reflecting on the significance of Remembrance Day, Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam said:
"Remembrance Day holds profound meaning for us all. It is a day to honour the sacrifices of the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve in defence of our freedoms and values. Their courage, dedication and selflessness remain a beacon of hope and a reminder of the cost of peace. As we pause to reflect, we remember their contributions and commit ourselves to preserving the ideals they fought to protect. May their legacy inspire future generations to live with the same sense of duty, unity and gratitude. I encourage everyone in the community to attend one of the remembrance services to show their support and pay tribute to those who have given so much in service. "
On this Remembrance Sunday, we express our deepest gratitude to the men and women who have served with unwavering courage and selfless sacrifice. Their past and present actions stand as a testament to their bravery and dedication. They were, and continue to be, a source of inspiration for us all.
Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development launches "Extreme Makeover PPID Edition" Staff Retreat
The Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Premier, successfully launched its transformative "Extreme Makeover PPID Edition" Team Building and Staff Retreat on 24 October 2024. Hosted on the scenic Island of North Caicos, the two-day retreat is focused on fostering leadership, promoting collaboration, and driving innovation among staff from across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
With the active support of the Office of the Deputy Premier, this retreat is part of the broader governmental effort to build a more unified, efficient, and future-ready public service.
Day one featured a series of dynamic exercises aimed at boosting teamwork, improving problem-solving capabilities and cultivating innovative thinking within the Ministry.
Day One Highlights:
Leadership Development: Through hands-on activities, participants enhanced their leadership skills, empowering them to effectively manage teams and projects within the Ministry’s operations.
Collaborative Problem-Solving: Employees took part in problem-solving challenges that encouraged creative thinking and teamwork, preparing them to tackle the infrastructural challenges facing the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Team Synergy: The retreat helped strengthen relationships across departments, building a more cohesive and collaborative workforce that will be key to achieving the Ministry’s long-term goals.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Honourable Jamell Robinson, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: “This retreat represents an important step toward fostering a culture of innovation and cooperation within our Ministry. The dedication and creativity shown by our staff on day one have been outstanding, and I look forward to seeing these efforts translate into more effective service delivery across the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
As the retreat continues, day two will focus on strategic planning, employee wellness, and practical sessions aimed at enhancing both personal and professional growth.
The Ministry, along with the Office of the Deputy Premier, is confident that the retreat will create a more innovative and united team ready to meet the evolving demands of the islands' infrastructural development.
The Office of the Deputy Premier and Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development remains committed to driving sustainable development and delivering top-tier infrastructure services that will benefit all Turks and Caicos Islanders.
MOE Hosts Soft Skills Training for Apprentices
The National Internship and Apprenticeship Program (NIAP) is one of the critical flagship programs for the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture. It is through this program that the Ministry and Government is able to fulfill its vision for human capital development and avail our young graduates and students with exposure to additional skills and knowledge to make them more ready for the world of work or as they make decisions about their career path.
A critical aspect of the program is exposure to those skills that were identified in our skills audit as necessary but absent among many of our young people. These include decision-making, communication and other skills.
On Thursday, October 10, the National Internship and Apprenticeship Program hosted a Soft Skills training session for its 2024 cohort of apprentices at the Department of Environmental and Coastal Resources conference room. The session was attended by thirteen (13) apprentices from various disciplines, such as law enforcement, healthcare, business management, information technology, education, and biomedical sciences.
These soft skills training sessions address the skills gap identified in the 2017 National Skills Audit, highlighting the need for workforce development in these areas. Soft skills training is crucial for apprentices as it equips them with the interpersonal and emotional intelligence needed to thrive in a professional setting. Moreover, solid soft skills contribute to personal growth, boosting confidence and professionalism and managing time and responsibilities efficiently. Soft skills training prepares apprentices for long-term success by making them well-rounded, adaptable, and valuable employees.
Apprentices participated in the interactive training sessions covering seven topics – professional etiquette, coordinating with others, active listening, service orientation, complex problem solving, critical thinking and communication skills. The sessions were led by experts Arielle Neely, Career Advancement and Program Coordinator of the NIAP, Melanie Smith, Founder & CEO of Talent Recruitment Group and Denise Westcarr, TCA Handling Human Resources Manager. Soft skills training is designed to ensure that apprentices are well-prepared with the skills they need for their desired careers.
At the training, Hon. Taylor, Minister for Education, expressed her commitment to advancing the skills and knowledge of program participants, aiming to prepare them for the competitive job market and empower them to contribute meaningfully to the islands' development.
Registration for the fourth-year implementation of the NIAP opens in February 2025. The program has aligned over 200 students with work experience and soft skills training within their field. We encourage all tertiary students to take advantage of the opportunity and register in February 2025.
HON. RACHEL M. TAYLOR, MINISTER OF EDUCATION AND DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR. EDGAR HOWELL ATTENDING THE 48TH COHSOD EDUCATION MEETING IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
The Hon. Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, is representing the Turks and Caicos Islands at the 48th meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) focused on Education, taking place on October 24-25, 2024, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
The COHSOD Education Meeting brings together ministers of education, policy makers, and stakeholders from various Caribbean nations to discuss critical issues affecting education across the region. This year’s agenda includes enhancing educational frameworks, promoting inclusive education, and integrating technology into learning environments.
Minister Taylor is committed to advancing educational initiatives that align with the goals of equitable and quality education for all. During the meeting, she aims to discuss the Turks and Caicos Islands' successful strategies and explore collaborative opportunities with fellow ministers to address common challenges in education.
"I am cherishing the opportunity to engage with my counterparts and exchange ideas that will enable us to better serve our students," said Minister Taylor. "Together, we can create innovative solutions that will strengthen our educational systems across the Caribbean."
The meeting provides an important platform for advocating policies that foster collaboration and implementation of effective educational practices. Updates from the meeting will be shared following the conclusion of the event. This meeting follows the Transforming Education Symposium held in Grand Cayman earlier this month.
PUBLIC ADVISORY FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
In light of recent heavy rainfall throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Environmental Health Department (EHD) is urging all residents, homeowners, property managers, and businesses to take immediate steps to reduce mosquito breeding sites and prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
Help Keep Your Community Safe:
To limit mosquito breeding and safeguard public health, the EHD requests that all residents:
- Remove all debris, garbage, old tires, and refuse from their properties and dispose of them at designated public landfills on their respective islands. Old tires, in particular, can hold water and are ideal mosquito breeding grounds.
- Check and treat all standing water on the premises using safe methods, such as a small amount of cooking oil or mosquito dunks. Mosquito dunks are safe, natural tablets that can be added to standing water to prevent mosquito larvae from developing.
Additional Steps to Reduce Mosquito Populations:
The EHD Vector Control Unit is actively monitoring and treating mosquito breeding sites. To support these efforts, residents and businesses are encouraged to remain vigilant and adopt the following preventative measures:
- Inspect buildings and yards weekly to identify and eliminate any sources of standing water.
- Turn over or cover containers that may collect water, including buckets, basins, and flowerpots.
- Dispose of old tires or cover them securely.
- Properly dispose of garbage and avoid any accumulation of refuse that may trap water.
- Cover boats, children's pools, and other outdoor items that collect rainwater.
- Clean and maintain rain gutters to ensure water flows freely.
- Check window and door screens for holes and repair any damage to keep mosquitoes out of living spaces.
- Seal water drums and rain barrels with tight covers.
Contact Information:
For further guidance and support, don't hesitate to contact the Environmental Health Department at 649-338-2143 or 649-338-2144.
Thank you for cooperating in keeping the Turks and Caicos Islands safe and healthy.
Tourism Environmental Awareness Month: “Sustainable Choices, Lasting Impact”
As we celebrate Tourism Environmental Awareness Month this November, we reflect on the impact that tourism has on our communities while emphasizing the importance of a balanced. This year’s theme, “Sustainable Choices, Lasting Impact,” highlights the need for responsible tourism practices and recognizes the commendable efforts of custodians such as the Department of Fisheries, the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), and the National Trust in protecting our natural resources and enhancing our tourism product.
Tourism contributes significantly to our economy, generating millions in revenue and supporting countless jobs, from stay-over visitors to excursionists. As travelers increasingly seek experiential moments, it is essential for the industry to adopt sustainable practices.
Throughout November, The Ministry of Tourism and Experience Turks & Caicos have planned numerous activities across the country to promote socio-cultural, economic, and environmental awareness and encourage sustainable tourism practices. Highlights include special church services nationally, Hello Tourist program, Turks and Caicos Islands Community College - Tourism Day, Careers Day, a Cultural Exposition and the National Tourism Quiz, among many. Additionally, events such as community clean-ups, a tourism product development and enhancement workshop amongst other activities.
Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism stated, "as we observe Tourism Environmental Awareness Month, it is imperative that we embrace sustainable practices that not only enhance our economy but also protect the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands. By making responsible choices, we can ensure that our beautiful destinations thrive for future generations. I encourage everyone to participate in the planned activities this November and to join us in our commitment to preserving the unique beauty of our islands."
Everyone is invited to participate in these initiatives and make conscious choices that contribute to a sustainable tourism future. Whether it’s opting for eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local artisans, or engaging in conservation efforts, every action counts.
For more information on Tourism Environmental Awareness Month and a schedule of events, please follow the Ministry of Tourism or Experience Turks & Caicos social media platforms.
ISU hosts Media Open House to strengthen collaboration and transparency
The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) hosted its inaugural Media Open House on 22 October 2024 to foster stronger relationships with the media and enhance public awareness about its holistic approach to addressing informal settlements. The event allowed media representatives to engage directly with ISU leadership and team members in an informal setting, promoting open dialogue and transparency regarding ISU’s mission to create safer, more sustainable communities in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).
During the event, ISU leaders highlighted the Unit’s commitment to a comprehensive strategy beyond land reclamation. They discussed the importance of community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and data-driven projects that incorporate insights from residents of informal settlements. A key part of this approach is an upcoming Social Needs Assessment Survey, which will gather critical data to inform future development plans.
The Media Open House featured remarks from Justice Carlos Simons, KC, Strategic Lead of the ISU, and Ms. Michelle J. Richardson, Logistics Lead, who underscored ISU’s efforts to not only address the physical aspects of informal settlements but also improve the social and living conditions of affected communities.
The media, as essential stakeholders in communicating ISU’s work, were active participants in the networking session, offering valuable insights on how ISU can strengthen its commitment to transparency and collaboration. Many expressed their dedication to fair and consistent coverage of the Unit’s efforts as it collaborates with public and private sector stakeholders to address key challenges and share progress with the broader community. This open dialogue between ISU and the media will be crucial for fostering public understanding of ISU’s mission and ensuring that the people of TCI stay informed about steps being taken to improve their communities.
