FORTIS TCI BEGINS CONSULTATION ON DRAFT RENEWABLE ENERGY AND RESOURCE PLANNING BILL
FortisTCI has conducted a comprehensive review of the provisions outlined in the draft 2023 Renewable Energy and Resource Planning Bill and a formal consultation process has commenced with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) and the Energy and Utilities Department on the Bill.
The consultation process on the draft Bill, which includes the energy provider FortisTCI, TCI Government, and independent consultant Mr. Abayomi Carmichael, who was engaged by TCI Government to facilitate public consultation, started on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. This follows a kick-off meeting held on Wednesday, September 18, to discuss the consultation process. Additional meetings are planned over the next few months to continue formal discussions.
FortisTCI strongly supports renewable energy in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Company believes the continued integration of renewable energy sources is necessary for the country's long-term sustainability, to diversify the energy mix, lower electricity rates over time, and reduce carbon emissions. This year alone, approximately 50% of the Company's capital budget was committed to clean and transitional energy projects, with ongoing commitments to invest in renewable energy and low-carbon energy sources.
The draft Renewable Energy and Resource Planning Bill, in its current form, aims to encourage the development and use of renewable energy in TCI. The Bill sets forth the licensing requirements for renewable energy producers and guidelines for connecting to the grid. It proposes an energy levy for solar energy producers, details licensing provisions for renewable energy installers, and addresses the roles of the Minister and the Energy and Utilities Commissioner.
The Bill also includes a net billing arrangement, which enables solar energy producers to sell electricity back to the utility. Additionally, the Bill provides a framework for the development of an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The IRP is a strategic planning tool to forecast the country's future energy demand and establishes the pathway and energy sources needed to meet those demands. The current national roadmap for renewable energy integration, also called the Resilient National Energy Transition Strategy (RNETS), sets the country’s target at 33% renewable energy by 2040.
FortisTCI, as the electricity supplier, has articulated its vision regarding provisions in the draft Bill to support a balanced, equitable and effective approach to renewable energy integration.
· Role of the Public Supplier: The Company’s continued investment in renewable energy is fundamental to its obligation to serve, and to provide customers with least-cost, reliable electricity.
· Grid Integrity and Safety: The connection of independent solar systems to the grid should be done in a manner that preserves the integrity of the grid and ensures the continued safety of FortisTCI employees and the public. Proper protocols are vital to maintain a steady, safe and reliable power supply.
· An Integrated Resource Planning process should be established to determine the most cost-effective strategies for meeting customers' future energy needs. This process is key to guiding investment decisions and resource allocations.
· Equitable Benefits for All Customers: Those who do not install renewable energy systems should not cross-subsidize, that is, pay the associated costs, for those who do.
In addition, FortisTCI anticipates that incoming renewable energy legislation should follow sound regulatory principles and interact seamlessly with the Electricity Ordinance and related regulations.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions attended the Annual Conference of International Association of Prosecutors in Baku, Azerbaijan
During the period 29th September through 2nd October 2024, the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Angela Brooks, represented the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution at the 29th annual International Association of Prosecutions Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan where 80 countries participated in this year’s conference. The International Association of Prosecutors, (IAP), is the largest association of prosecutors globally.
The conference program was designed to engage and inspire the prosecutors’ work from a practical perspective, while also addressing the technical aspects of the current challenges prosecutors face. Under the theme, “The Role of the Prosecutor in upholding the Rule of law”, this year’s sessions discussed approaches to balancing the pillars of an independent criminal justice system, the role of victims and witnesses in the criminal justice system, and the challenges prosecutors face in upholding the rule of law in this digital age.
It was against this backdrop that the conference explored how prosecutors can best ensure that there is procedural equality between the prosecution and defense and considered the role that prosecution authorities play as one of the main pillars of an independent criminal justice system. The conference also considered how victims and witnesses can be served by the criminal justice system to ensure that they can give their best evidence, both through specific initiatives and greater collaboration between the criminal justice stakeholders.
Dr Brooks was one of the esteemed chairpersons for the conference, who chaired the sessions, “Transparency and public confidence in the criminal justice system.” This workshop considered prosecutorial engagement with the media and civil society, the use of metrics to demonstrate prosecution standards and the role of the media as a safeguard against potential abuses.
Minister, Honourable Jamell Robinson and team will provide updates on the National Physical Development Plan
The Minister, Honourable Jamell Robinson and his team will provide updates on the National Physical Development Plan, ongoing efforts of the informal settlements unit, joint operations with the crown land unit, the status of housing refurbishment programs, and other key infrastructure developments.
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Department of Behavioural Health Services Hosted the 10th Annual Mental Health Conference
On 10th October 2024, the Department of Behavioral Health Services within the Ministry of Health and Human Services hosted its 10th Mental Health Conference under the theme: Prioritising Mental Health in the Workplace. The primary goal of the conference was to engage attendees in critical dialogue about the importance of addressing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Held at Beaches Resort, the event was attended by approximately 100 people from a wide cross-section of the community, including human resource managers, chief executive officers, healthcare professionals, educators, youth workers, mental health professionals, and advocates.
The conference began with an opening prayer by Ms. Tania Allen, followed by an introduction and welcome by the Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, Dr. Alicia Malcolm. Delivering opening remarks via video was the Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Shaun Malcolm, who reiterated the importance of implementing mental health policies in the workplace and building best practices that create cultures where workers have the potential to contribute productively and thrive.
The keynote address was delivered by Ms. Jody-Ann Pratt, Director of Human Resources at the Ritz-Carlton. Ms. Pratt spoke on the topic: Supporting Employee’s Mental Health- A Guide for HR Professionals. With an educational background in Psychology, Ms. Pratt clearly depicted how Human Resource Managers and organizational leaders are perfectly positioned to bridge the mental health gap by providing support and tackling stigma in the workplace. In her delivery, Ms. Pratt provided key elements to supporting mental health in the workplace which include:
Building a supportive work culture
Strengthening Employee Assistance Programmes
Normalizing mental health days
Promoting physical health as part of mental health
Having a concise crisis plan
Fostering a sense of community within the organization
The conference also included a panel discussion on ‘Prioritising Mental Health Theirs and Yours’. The esteemed panel was comprised of Mrs. Sheba Wilson (CEO, Trainer, Speaker & Coach) Mrs. Ruth Forbes (President & CEO, Fortis TCI), Mrs. Tonya Greaves (Psychologist in the Department of Behavioural Health Services) and Mr. Edwin Taylor (HR Manager). The panel discussion was moderated by Mr. Darron Hilaire Jr. (Marketing Communications Executive at Flow) and added a wealth of knowledge on taking care of employee mental health while also emphasizing self-care and managing compassion fatigue.
Also featured during the event was a mental health avenue, where attendees were able to view and glean from various booths focused on psychology, psychiatry, substance abuse prevention, and Nutrition. Presentations were also delivered by staff of the Department of Behavioural Health Services: Dr. Jadetra Ingraham (Clinical Psychologist) and Ms. Tiara McTaire (Mental Health Education Specialist) who spoke on ‘Business Bumps – Unmasking mental health issues at work’.
The Department of Behavioural Health Services wishes to thank the keynote speaker, panelists, presenters, moderators and attendees for making the 10th Annual Mental Health Conference such a success.
Minister Hon. Josephine Connolly and delegation attend the 18th Caribbean Week of Agriculture
Minister Honourable Josephine Connolly, along with her delegation, attended a highly productive visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, at the 18th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) and the 14th Special Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM). Hon. Connolly, who currently serves as Chairperson of the CRFM Ministerial Council, led her team, which included Acting Director of Fisheries Kathy Lochkhart, Director of Agriculture Wilhelmina Kissoonsingh, and Executive Administrator Leandrea Missick, in making significant contributions to both events.
Minister Connolly presided over the CRFM Ministerial Council meeting, where vital issues were discussed, including the enhancement of fisheries statistics and information systems, the integration of biodiversity considerations into fisheries policies, and the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Global Diversity Framework. The meeting was marked by meaningful dialogue, leading to strategic steps for the sustainable management of fisheries across the Caribbean region.
Minister Connolly remarked, “This meeting was a crucial opportunity to address some of the most pressing challenges in our fisheries sector. The decisions we made will help to protect marine ecosystems while supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on them.”
The delegation also participated in the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, a dynamic event that brought together stakeholders from across the region to explore new innovations and approaches in the agricultural sector. A key feature of the week was the Agriculture Trade Show, held daily, which provided an excellent platform to showcase the latest advancements in agricultural technologies and sustainable practices. Participants were able to engage with a wide array of solutions aimed at increasing productivity and improving food security, particularly in light of the growing impacts of climate change.
Reflecting on the week, the Director of Agriculture shared, “CWA offered an invaluable opportunity to connect with regional leaders and innovators. We explored new technologies and sustainable practices that will greatly benefit the agricultural sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Acting Director of Fisheries echoed similar sentiments, adding, “The exchange of ideas and experiences during this week underlines the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges. The insights gained there will undoubtedly enhance our fisheries management efforts moving forward.”
Minister Connolly praised the overall success of the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, noting that the event underscored the region’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. “This week has been an inspiring showcase of regional cooperation. The advancements in agriculture and fisheries presented here will have a lasting impact,not only on our individual nations but on the Caribbean as a whole. I look forward to applying the insights and solutions we've gathered to enhance our efforts in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
The delegation’s participation reaffirmed the Turks and Caicos Islands’ dedication to advancing sustainable agricultural and fisheries practices and their involvement in shaping a more resilient and food-secure future for the region.
Ministry of Health and Human Services observes Global Handwashing Day
The Ministry of Health and Human Services joins the rest of the world to observe Global Handwashing Day on Tuesday, 15th October 2024.
The theme for Global Handwashing Day 2024 is “Why are clean hands still important?” The day is used to promote knowledge and capacity building of health and care workers through innovative and impactful training and education on infection prevention and control, including hand hygiene, and is an important reminder to all about the importance of hand hygiene to health. Inequalities in handwashing facilities can put individuals at higher risk for diseases that impact their health, education, and economic outcomes. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “US health care providers, on average, wash their hands less than half of the time they should.” This simple behavioral change, when carried out effectively, is said to reduce childhood mortality rates and related respiratory infections by 25% and death from diarrheal diseases by 50%. Global Handwashing Day (GH Day) is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap and clean running water, as an easy, effective, and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives.
It is important to make handwashing into a habit. The Global Handwashing Day helps raise awareness of the importance of washing with soap, but it also makes it fun for children to get involved. Proper hygiene requires that individuals know the importance of good hygiene and develop the habits to carry it out. Let us make every effort to encourage healthy behaviors by washing our hands after using the toilet, after coughing, blowing our nose and before serving or handling food and eating. Handwashing is one of the most important things you can do to prevent food poisoning. Follow these handwashing tips when preparing food: Wash hands before, during, and after preparing food.
In observance of Global Handwashing Day 2024, the National IPC Focal Point and Environmental Health personnel within the Ministry of Health and Human Services, visited the Helena Jones Robinson High School in Grand Turk, to provide information on Infection Prevention and Control in the school environment, including demonstrations of proper handwashing techniques.
Everyone has a role to play to ensure clean hands are within reach. Whether it’s in hospitals, schools, or in everyday interactions, practicing handwashing with soap still contributes to better health outcomes and a safer world for everyone.
Border Force Recovers Over $360,000 from Compliance Checks of High-Risk Importers
The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force has cracked down on three high-risk commercial importers, recovering over $360,000.00 in unpaid customs duties and fees. The Border Force has increased its compliance checks, sending a clear message to those who attempt to skirt customs regulations. These stricter measures not only ensure the accurate collection of customs duties and fees, preventing fraudulent activities like undervaluation or misclassification but also level the playing field for legitimate businesses and protect TCI's economy from unfair competition.
Emilio Seymour, Director General of Border Force, stated, "Border Force is committed to upholding the integrity of our trade environment and protecting the financial interests of the Turks and Caicos Islands. By intensifying compliance checks, we are reinforcing our zero-tolerance stance for fraudulent behaviour. We urge all commercial importers to strictly adhere to customs regulations to avoid penalties and disruptions to their businesses. We need voluntary compliance told a more secure and prosperous trading landscape for everyone.”
Submitting false declarations to Border Force when importing goods can have severe consequences. In addition to paying unpaid duties and overpayments, importers may face seizure of goods, fines of up to $20,000, and imprisonment for up to two years. This applies to both paper and electronic submissions.
The public is also advised that the importation of controlled substances, firearms, offensive weapons, indecent materials, and certain plant, food, or animal products can result in fines up to $50,000 and/or imprisonment.
Border Force plays a crucial role in ensuring a fair and secure trading environment. By working closely with brokers and importers, the department is fostering a culture of voluntary compliance and building trust within the trade community. Border Force is investing in training and resources to help customs brokers and importers understand and meet their obligations, minimizing disruptions, streamlining processes, and preventing delays due to non-compliance.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services hosted the 2nd Women’s Health Symposium
On October 5, 2024, Beaches Resort was the venue for an impactful Women’s Health Symposium hosted under the theme: Advocate, Educate, Celebrate Women's Health Matters. The symposium, organised by the Ministry of Health and Human Services’ Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit, attracted women from across the Turks and Caicos Islands to engage in crucial discussions on topics affecting their well-being.
The event brought together presenters from a range of distinguished medical professionals and thought leaders to explore topics designed to educate and empower women to prioritise their health and wellness.
The event began with an opening prayer by Mrs. Anansa Jervis and an introduction by the Mistress of Ceremony, Mrs. Cheryl Ann Foreman, setting the tone for a day of inspiration and enlightenment. This was followed by a warm welcome from the Director of Health Promotion and Advocacy unit, Dr Camelia Clarke and opening remarks delivered by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Ms Renessa Williams. Both leaders emphasised the importance of women’s health and the need for continued advocacy and education in the field.
The Minister of Health and Human Services, Honorable Shaun D Malcolm, commented, “Women’s health isn’t just another priority; it’s at the heart of our families, our communities, and our nation’s overall well-being. Every day, we are working to ensure that women’s health is not just talked about but truly protected and promoted. We can make a lasting impact by coming together—healthcare professionals, advocates, and all of you here.”
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, CEO of TCI Hospitals, who inspired participants to advocate for their health. Dr Braithwaite-Tennant emphasised the importance of taking charge of one’s well-being while highlighting the progress made in women’s health initiatives in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“This symposium was a vital reminder that women’s health matters,” said Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant in her keynote speech. “By advocating for ourselves, educating ourselves, and celebrating our collective achievements, we can create healthier futures for ourselves and the generations to come.”
The other sessions included:
Anti-Ageing: A Dermatologist’s Perspective – Led by Dr Marsha Barnett, this session provided insights into maintaining youthful skin and overall health as women age.
Chronic Diseases and Women’s Health – Presented by Dr Samantha Barrett-Palmer, this session examined the impact of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension on women, emphasising the importance of prevention and management.
Understanding and Prioritizing Gynaecological Health – Delivered by Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Dawn Perry-Ewing, this deep dive into reproductive health focused on preventive care and the importance of regular screenings.
Breaking Barriers in Breast Cancer Awareness and Care – Led by General Surgeon and former Premier, Dr the Honourable Rufus Ewing, this session highlighted the significance of early detection, cutting-edge treatments, and breaking the stigma around breast cancer.
Navigating Mental Wellness: Strategies for Women’s Health – This session was presented by Dr Anya Malcolm, who focused on the mental health challenges faced by women, offering strategies for self-care, resilience, and mental wellness.
The symposium also featured a compelling panel discussion titled Empowering Women Leaders: Balancing Innovation, Technology, and Well-Being, with insights from a diverse panel of influential women leaders. Panellists included Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, Mrs Cathrice Williams (Director of Information Technology at the TCI Financial Services Commission) and Mrs Rachell Salao Roulett (Vice president, Fortis). The discussion emphasised the need to balance leadership roles with personal health and wellness while leveraging technology and innovation to support women’s health journeys.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services extends its gratitude to the speakers, panellists, and attendees for making the second women’s health symposium a resounding success. The event was a testament to the power of collective action in advancing women's health and leadership.
Xi Jinping is worried about the economy
China’s sputtering economy has its worried leaders pulling out all the stops.
They have unveiled stimulus measures, offered rare cash handouts, held a surprise meeting to kickstart growth and tried to shake up an ailing property market with a raft of decisions - they did all of this in the last week.
What is less clear is how the slowdown has affected ordinary Chinese people, whose expectations and frustrations are often heavily censored.
But two new pieces of research offer some insight. The first, a survey of Chinese attitudes towards the economy, found that people were growing pessimistic and disillusioned about their prospects. The second is a record of protests, both physical and online, that noted a rise in incidents driven by economic grievances.
Although far from complete, the picture neverthless provides a rare glimpse into the current economic climate, and how Chinese people feel about their future.
Beyond the crisis in real estate, steep public debt and rising unemployment have hit savings and spending. The world’s second-largest economy may miss its own growth target - 5% - this year.
That is sobering for the Chinese Communist Party. Explosive growth turned China into a global power, and stable prosperity was the carrot offered by a repressive regime that would never loosen its grip on the stick.
The slowdown hit as the pandemic ended, partly driven by three years of sudden and complete lockdowns, which strangled economic activity.
And that contrast between the years before and after the pandemic is evident in the research by American professors Martin Whyte of Harvard University and Scott Rozelle of Stanford University's Center on China's Economy.
They conducted their surveys in 2004 and 2009, before Xi Jinping became China’s leader, and during his rule in 2014 and 2023. The sample sizes varied, ranging between 3,000 and 7,500.
In 2004, nearly 60% of the respondents said their families’ economic situation had improved over the past five years - and just as many of them felt optimistic about the next five years.
The figures jumped in 2009 and 2014 - with 72.4% and 76.5% respectively saying things had improved, while 68.8% and 73% were hopeful about the future.
However in 2023, only 38.8% felt life had got better for their families. And less than half - about 47% - believed things would improve over the next five years.
Meanwhile, the proportion of those who felt pessimistic about the future rose, from just 2.3% in 2004 to 16% in 2023.
While the surveys were of a nationally representative sample aged 20 to 60, getting access to a broad range of opinions is a challenge in authoritarian China.
Respondents were from 29 Chinese provinces and administrative regions, but Xinjiang and parts of Tibet were excluded - Mr Whyte said it was “a combination of extra costs due to remote locations and political sensitivity”. Home to ethnic minorities, these tightly controlled areas in the north-west have long bristled under Beijing's rule.
Those who were not willing to speak their minds did not participate in the survey, the researchers said. Those who did shared their views when they were told it was for academic purposes, and would remain confidential.
Their anxieties are reflected in the choices that are being made by many young Chinese people. With unemployment on the rise, millions of college graduates have been forced to accept low-wage jobs, while others have embraced a “lie flat” attitude, pushing back against relentless work. Still others have opted to be “full-time children”, returning home to their parents because they cannot find a job, or are burnt out.
Aston Martin shares shaken after profit warning
Luxury carmaker Aston Martin's share price sank more than 20% after it said profits will be lower than expected this year.
The company, famed for its links to fictional superspy James Bond, has been hit by supply chain issues and falling sales in China.
The share price of Stellantis, the owner of brands such as Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat and Jeep, also plummeted on Monday after a profit warning.
Carmakers across Europe have been suffering lately, with disappointing sales and increased competition from abroad taking a heavy toll on earnings.
Aston Martin is a prestige brand that makes upmarket cars in relatively small quantities.
Last year, it sold 6,620 vehicles, with about a fifth of those going to the Asia-Pacific region.
However, the company says it has been hit by a fall in demand in China, where a slowing economy has affected sales of luxury cars.
It has also been affected by problems at several suppliers, which have affected its ability to build a number of new models.
As a result, Aston says it will make about 1,000 fewer cars than originally planned this year.
Sales, which had originally been forecast to rise, are now expected to be lower than in 2023, and earnings will fall short of current market expectations.
Adrian Hallmark, who became Aston Martin’s chief executive a few weeks ago, said it had become clear that “decisive action” was needed to adjust output.
But he added that he was “even more convinced than before” about the brand’s potential for growth.
Meanwhile, Stellantis has become the latest large-scale carmaker to revise its financial forecasts, thanks to a deterioration in the industry outlook.
The company has been struggling with weak demand in the US, a key market, where it has been forced to offer discounts in order to shift unsold stock.
It has also been facing increased competition from Chinese brands, which have been expanding aggressively abroad.
As a result, it said it expects its profit margins to be significantly lower than previously thought this year.
The announcement sent its shares tumbling. By lunchtime on Monday, the price was down more than 14%.
The problems at Stellantis and Aston Martin reflect a wider malaise in the European car industry.
On Friday, Volkswagen issued its second profit warning in three months, while it has also suggested it might have to close plants in Germany for the first time in its history.
Its German rivals Mercedes-Benz and BMW have also downgraded their profit forecasts in recent weeks.
Among the common issues are falling sales in China – until recently a highly lucrative market for expensive and profitable high-end models – coupled with growing competition from Chinese brands in other markets.
According to Matthias Schmidt of Schmidt Automotive Research, European firms have been caught out by a wave of "unsustainable" discounting by Chinese brands in their home market, which has affected sales of high-priced vehicles.
“German brands, and VW in particular, have been caught off-guard by the pace of change in China” he explains.
Source-BBC