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.
Honourable Knowles Celebrates International Print Day with CGIS Team
Happy International Print Day to Our Incredible Print Professionals! Today, we celebrate International Print Day, a special occasion to recognize the tremendous contributions of the printing industry and all the talented individuals who bring the world of print to life.
I take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the small but mighty Department within my Ministry – the Customer and Government Information Services (CGIS) for all that they do daily to meet the Government’s printing needs. Your dedication and craftsmanship keep this timeless form of communication thriving.
Print is not just ink on paper—it’s the tangible expression of creativity, information, and culture. On this day, we honor the innovation, passion, and skill that each of you brings to the printing industry. Your efforts not only support commerce and communication, but they also help businesses grow, stories be told, and ideas shared.
Whether you are in the press, or handling finishing, your skills shape communication and innovation in ways that touch us all. Thank you for your expertise, craftsmanship, and commitment to excellence in every print run.
The Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities joins me in wishing you a wonderful and inspiring International Print Day!
Fulton County DA asks court to reinstate several election interference charges against Trump
The Fulton County district attorney who charged former President Donald Trump with election interference in Georgia has asked an appeals court to reinstate a number of charges against Trump and his co-defendants that were tossed out by the trial court judge earlier this year.
District Attorney Fani Willis, in a filing to the Georgia Court of Appeals, argued that Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee "erred" in March when he quashed six of the counts in the indictment, specifically relating to the charge of solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer.
In his March ruling, McAfee wrote that the indictment had "failed to allege sufficient detail" in exactly what part of the oath the defendants were allegedly trying to get public officials to violate. He said the "lack of detail concerning an essential legal element" was "fatal" and tossed out the charge.
Willis, in her new court filing, pushed back on the judge's ruling, arguing that the indictment "more than sufficiently" included those details and called for the charges to be reinstated.
Source-ABC
GRENADA Government postpones budget presentation to early next year
The Grenada government Wednesday announced that it would not be presenting the 2025 national budget this year, but would do so in either January or February next year.
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, speaking at a news conference, where he also announced a pension plan for public sector workers, said that the decision to postpone the fiscal package is a result of the significant disruptions caused by Hurricane Beryl when it passed through the country on July 1 this year as well as recent fiscal developments.
The hurricane left widespread damage, overwhelming local infrastructure and demanding a substantial portion of the government’s resources for recovery efforts.
Earlier this month, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Grenada had suffered substantial losses and damage as a result of the passage of the hurricane.
The Washington-based financial institution said that while the full estimate of the damages and losses is yet to be completed, the initial estimates suggest that physical damages alone exceed 16 per cent of gross domestic product.
“First of all, we’ve had a significant disruption caused by Hurricane Beryl. We only recently passed the supplemental budget, which also includes addressing the damage caused by Beryl. We’ve had to take several actions, including suspending some parts of the Fiscal Management and Resilience Act,” Mitchell told reporters.
He acknowledged that the hurricane’s impact has forced the Government to adopt several extraordinary fiscal measures, including invoking clauses in Grenada’s debt agreements requesting the suspension of debt payments, allowing the country to redirect funds towards rebuilding and recovery.
Mitchell said that the government says it will use the additional time to engage in broader consultations with stakeholders and citizens, ensuring that the final budget reflects the nation’s most pressing needs and long-term goals.
“We believe it will give us more opportunity to have deeper, more meaningful, and more extensive engagement with our citizens and stakeholders as we prepare the budget,” Mitchell said.
Source-CMC
Windies Team Aim for Repeat Success in T20 World Cup Showdown
Eight years ago, the West Indies edged out New Zealand by just six runs in a thrilling second semifinal of the 2016 T20 World Cup, booking their spot in the final. They went on to claim their maiden World T20 title with a victory over Australia.
Fast forward to this Friday, and the Windies will hope for history to repeat itself as they face the Kiwis once more in the second semifinal of the current tournament in Sharjah.
After suffering a heavy 10-wicket defeat at the hands of South Africa, the West Indies bounced back with wins in their remaining group-stage matches against Bangladesh, Scotland, and England, reigniting their campaign.
Despite New Zealand holding a dominant head-to-head record of 15 wins to just five losses in 24 encounters, the Windies might carry an edge in this semifinal showdown. The spin-friendly tracks in Sharjah play to their strengths, with 17 of their 20 wickets in the group stage falling to spin. The West Indies will rely heavily on their spinners, with Hayley Matthews, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack, and Zaida James leading the attack.
For New Zealand, Amelia Kerr, who tops the bowling charts alongside South Africa’s Nonkululeko Mlaba, will be pivotal. Leigh Kasperek’s off-spin could also return to bolster the Kiwi attack.
Stafanie Taylor remains doubtful for the Windies, but the team has proven capable in her absence. Deandra Dottin has been in ferocious form, leading the tournament with six towering sixes, twice as many as any other player. Her power-hitting will be crucial to the Windies’ chances.
New Zealand will be looking to Georgia Plimmer, who has been in excellent form, while Suzie Bates is due for a big performance. Much will also depend on the experienced captain Devine to steady the ship.
Source- CMC
Barbados Government asked to back Israel’s war with the Hamas terrorist organisation.
The government of Barbados has been called on to back Israel’s war with the Hamas terrorist organization.
The call was made by Israel’s non-resident Ambassador to Barbados, Itai Bardov, during an interview with Barbados Today.
Speaking from his base in Panama, Bardov raised concerns about Bridgetown’s position, in the wake of the ongoing conflict with Hamas that one year ago infiltrated Israel’s southern border, killing 1 200 Israelis in the worst attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust during the Second World War.
In addition. 250 men, women, and children were taken hostage.
During the interview, Bardov expressed disappointment with Barbados and other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states, suggesting their efforts to restore peace in the Middle East have been misdirected.
“I think the fact they have chosen to put all the pressure… on Israel… is not going to reach the effect that we all want, which is a cessation of the conflict, and returning back to normalcy,” Bardov said.
He also urged Barbados and its regional partners to shift focus and apply pressure on Iran and its proxies, Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
“If you feel that you want to bring an end to these hostilities and restore peace, pressuring Israel will not be the right path,” Bardov said. “You have to pressure Iran, you have to pressure Iran’s proxies to stop their attacks and their hostilities, and not go the populous way.”
Bardov questioned Bridgetown’s position on Israel’s right to self-defense and acknowledged Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s condemnation of Hamas following the outbreak of war but criticized what he saw as a contradictory stance.
The Israeli Ambassador also warned that the stance taken by Barbados and other countries in the region, risks emboldening terrorist organizations. “What you are doing is giving what’s called a silver bullet for the terrorist organizations. All you have to do is attack another nation and then go and hide yourself among civilians and use them as human shields and we are not allowed to react… create collateral damage,” he said.
The ambassador expressed deep concern about the ongoing conflict, particularly the kidnapping of Israeli citizens, and called for unified efforts to end the bloodshed and restore peace.
“ I really hope that we can resolve this conflict in a way that will bring back the 101 hostages who were kidnapped from their homes and that will ensure security [not only] for the people of Israel, but also for the people of Gaza and Lebanon,” he told Barbados Today.
Department of Agriculture Marks World Food Day 2024 with Safe Pesticide Use Workshop
In celebration of World Food Day 2024, the Department of Agriculture hosted a workshop on the “Safe Use of Pesticides” to promote responsible pesticide handling and raise awareness on key agricultural practices. The workshop, held in Providenciales, brought together farmers, backyard gardeners, and landscapers, providing them with essential training to ensure the safe use and management of pesticides.
World Food Day, established by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in 1979, is recognized in over 150 countries and is celebrated annually on October 16th to raise awareness and mobilize action against world hunger and malnutrition. This year’s theme, “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” underscores the importance of food security and sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the need for nutritious food for all and the promotion of agricultural systems that support a healthier planet.
During the workshop, participants were introduced to various topics, including an overview of pests and pesticides, understanding pesticide labelling, and the safe use, storage, and disposal of chemical containers. This knowledge is vital to ensuring both personal safety and the protection of the environment, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to attend the workshop, noting that the training was highly informative and practical. Many indicated that they would be willing to attend future workshops hosted by the Department. At the conclusion of the event, participants were provided with essential safety gear, including respiratory kits, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective coveralls, equipping them with the necessary tools to safely handle pesticides in their daily operations.
The Department of Agriculture remains committed to supporting the local agricultural community by providing valuable training and resources that promote sustainability, food security, and the safe use of agricultural chemicals.
This press release highlights the efforts of the Department of Agriculture to unite the community in addressing global challenges related to food security while fostering local agricultural development and environmental stewardship.