GOVERNOR’S RESPONSE TO ABC NEWS INTERVIEW
The Turks and Caicos Islands values its warm relationship with the United States and welcomes over 1 million visitors each year. Our countries have close ties and work in a strong partnership to tackle shared threats in the region.
In the spirit of respect for this relationship, the Hon. Premier and I received a US Congressional Delegation to listen to their concerns about five US Nationals charged and
on bail for the possession of ammunition offenses. US Congressman Guy Reschenthaler’s commentary on ABC News following the meeting is highly regrettable.
His characterization of our meeting is not one we recognize. Our discussions were professional and respectful with a focus on clarifying the legal position and the well-being
of the individuals.
A mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years and a fine for possession of firearms and/or ammunition is in place to serve and protect all who reside and visit the Turks and Caicos Islands. The law provides discretion in exceptional circumstances for the judge to impose a reduced custodial sentence of less than 12 years and a fine that is fair and just for each case. To date, no US National has received the mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years.
We do not target US Nationals and any statements to the contrary are without merit. Our independent justice system upholds the rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of nationality, whilst maintaining the security and integrity of our Islands. All five US Nationals are on bail with reporting conditions and are receiving US consular support. Three have pled guilty and two will enter their pleas within the next two weeks.
Like the United States, we have a constitutional separation of the executive and judicial branches. There is no remit for the Turks and Caicos Islands Executive nor the UK
Government to intervene or comment on ongoing legal cases before the courts.
Law enforcement agencies apply professional standard operating procedures for processing matters through the legal system and will investigate any concerns where it is felt standards were not met. There have been no United Nations sanctions against His Majesty’s Prison Grand Turk. A February 2024 Turks and Caicos Islands Human Rights Commission report was positive with no findings against prisoner conditions.
I appreciate the Congressman is concerned for his constituents, but the situation calls for respectful dialogue that guards against misrepresentation. It is important there is respect for due process and for public servants to perform their duties without fear or compromise. The rule of law is paramount and all are equal before the law.
The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to welcome all visitors to enjoy our Beautiful by Nature Islands.
Provo Water Company Issues Update on Water Distribution Challenges
Provo Water Company (PWC) announced today that, due to persistent demands, water restrictions will continue through June 2024 as the organization continues its commitment to improving the water distribution network through various projects addressing current distribution challenges.
The water restrictions, which have been in place on an as-needed basis, will continue in the following areas:
• West of Suzie Turn: Including The Bight (between Beaches Resort and Turtle Cove), Cooper Jack, Industrial Park, Thompson Cove, Cherokee Road, Blue Mountain, Downtown, Airport Road, Kewtown, Blue Hills, Five Cays, South Dock, and Chalk Sound will encounter low to no water pressure during nightly restrictions from 11:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.
• Venetian Road and Turtle Tail: Will undergo a 50% water restriction from 9:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., potentially leading to reduced water pressure for customers.
In response to the ongoing high water demands, PWC Managing Director Robert Hall reaffirmed his team's unwavering commitment to mitigating these challenges. He said, “Water demands on Providenciales are still high, and as we continue to make progress on our improvement projects to address these short-term distribution challenges, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding while we work expeditiously to resolve these issues.”
PWC is currently working on three key projects to improve water distribution across Providenciales. The primary focus is on the New City Water Transmission Main Project, which includes the installation of larger-diameter pipes along a new route. This initiative aims to significantly boost water flow and establish an alternative distribution route through which to distribute water.
Another project currently underway involves replacing older valves in the water distribution network with newer, larger-diameter valves. This upgrade will enhance water flow, resulting in improved distribution along the existing network pipes.
The third project focuses on enhancing the current booster equipment responsible for augmenting water flow within the distribution network. These enhancements will bolster the booster's capacity to leverage the upgraded pipe diameters and replace valves more efficiently.
Speaking on the projects and their progress, Hall said, “These projects have always been a part of our plan to accommodate the growth of the country. Unfortunately, unforeseen setbacks due primarily to the long-term effects of the pandemic and its impact on the world economy and supply chains, among other factors, have taken their toll on our project timelines. Our team is committed to resolving these issues as quickly as possible, but we are taking every measure to ensure that we do so in a way that allows us to continue providing incredible service and value to our customers.
In addition to the improvement projects, PWC is also in the process of building a new water plant on the northwest side of the island. This new plant will introduce a new distribution point closer to the areas currently experiencing water restrictions and provide a host of benefits to water distribution for the whole island.
Hall emphasizes the significance of water conservation as a crucial measure in addressing water shortages. Simple actions like repairing leaks, utilizing water-efficient fixtures, and practicing mindful water usage can greatly contribute to preserving precious water resources and reducing monthly bills.
Environmental Health Department Hosts Community Representatives at Providenciales Landfill Site
The Environmental Health Department (EHD) is pleased to announce the successful completion of a guided site visit of the ongoing fire extinguishing works at the Providenciales Dumpsite. This event, held on Wednesday, 15th May 2024, was facilitated by the Caribbean Development Bank Consultants and the Environmental Health Department team. The visit took place from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM and was organized to provide residents of the nearby community an opportunity to observe the efforts being made to address the fires that have plagued the Providenciales dumpsite over the years.
During the site visit, attendees were given an in-depth overview of the fire extinguishing process, including the techniques and equipment being used to manage and safely extinguish the fire. The consultants and EHD officials provided detailed explanations, ensuring that residents understood the scope and scale of the work being undertaken. This transparent approach helped to build trust and reassure the community about the measures being implemented to safeguard their health and environment.
Among the participants was the Minister of Public Safety and Utilities and Chairman of the Solid Waste Task Force, Honourable Kyle Knowles, whose presence added significant value to the visit. He addressed the residents and highlighted the government's commitment to resolving the issue promptly and effectively. His engagement with the community underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in managing environmental health concerns.
Commenting on the exercise, Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Shaun D Malcolm stated that “I am pleased that persons living in the communities in close proximity to the Providenciales Landfill site had the opportunity to meet with the CDB Consultants as well as EHD staff, tour the site and witness the works being undertaken as well as ask questions about the work that is being done to address fires at the site. This work aims to improve the environment surrounding the site including the air quality.”
The residents expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to witness the fire management efforts firsthand. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive. They inquired about the future scope of works for site development and expressed interest in having the quality of air monitored.
For additional information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
FINALISATION OF CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM PROPOSALS
Her Excellency the Governor convened a meeting with the Honourable Premier, the Honourable Leader of the Opposition, the Honourable Attorney General, Sir Jeffrey Jowell KC and the FCDO’s Deputy Director Adam Pile to finalise the package of constitutional reform so it may be submitted to the Privy Council in July. Also in attendance was Her Excellency the Deputy Governor.
The bipartisan constitutional talks with the UK Government in Grand Turk (October 2023) agreed to move to a fully elected House of Assembly, with four additional elected members replacing the members appointed by the Governor, Premier and Leader of the Opposition. In the wider package of constitutional reform, all other major issues have been agreed in further meetings and correspondence, bar the timing of a transition to a fully elected House of Assembly.
Scope of work of the Electoral District Boundary Commission
The Electoral District Boundary Commission was set up in February to review in the first instance the boundaries of the electoral districts into which the islands are divided in line with s.61 of the Constitution. The Governor, in line with the agreement of the UK Government, has asked that they then assess options for the composition of the four additional elected seats. This work will need to be put out to public consultation and submitted to the House of Assembly, after which further work will be required to implement the approved changes.
In order to deliver constitutional reform for the Turks and Caicos Islands this summer, the agreed package of reforms now needs to be submitted to the UK Government so it may be made by His Majesty The King in the Privy Council in July.
Transition to an all-elected House of Assembly
Given this timing, it was noted that there are two options for the transition to an all-elected House of Assembly*:
A transitionary phase that provides for an all-elected House of Assembly* at the forthcoming election with four additional ‘all-island’ candidates for the next term, following which the further work of the Electoral District Boundary Commission will inform the composition of the four additional seats going forward; or
Retain the status quo of four appointed members at the forthcoming election and wait to move to an all-elected House* until the subsequent election, following the work of the Electoral District Boundary Commission which will inform the composition of the four additional seats.
The agreement was not reached at the meeting on which option to pursue.
The Honourable Premier continues in his view that the transition to an all-elected House* should take place at the forthcoming election with the four additional elected seats contested on an ‘all-island’ basis. This would be a transitionary phase, until the subsequent election where the work of the Electoral District Boundary Commission will inform what additional constituencies may be implemented.
The Honourable Leader of the Opposition has confirmed his view that the transition to an all-elected House of Assembly* should not take place at the forthcoming election, that the status quo should be retained with four appointed members; and that the move to an all-elected House of Assembly should only take place at the subsequent election, where the work of the Electoral District Boundary Commission will inform what additional constituencies may be implemented.
In light of the need to provide a clear position to the UK Government, a motion will be tabled for debate in the House of Assembly to allow a full debate on when a fully elected legislature should be introduced other than the Attorney General.
DECR COMMEMORATES THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR BIODIVERSITY 2024
Today, we join the global community in celebrating the International Day for Biodiversity 2024. This year’s theme, “Biodiversity for Sustainable Development,” highlights the integral role biodiversity plays in the health of our planet and the well-being of all its inhabitants.
As we mark this important day, we are reminded of the urgent need to address the biodiversity crisis globally, regionally and locally. Human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change, are accelerating the loss of species at an unprecedented rate. Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem services, from clean air and water to food security and climate resilience. Protecting and restoring biodiversity is an environmental issue, and a fundamental part of sustainable development.
To commemorate this day, the DECR is proud to inform the community of the Turks and Caicos of initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing biodiversity:
- Educational Programs: We have expanded our educational outreach to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity, through Nature School; and the Greening Our Schools programme – in collaboration with the Department of Education. This has included workshops, school programs, and public seminars designed to engage and inform the public about biodiversity conservation.
- Sustainable Practice: The DECR is committed to implementing and promoting sustainable practices through the protection, conservation and enforcement of our protected areas.
- Research and Innovation: Through grant funding such as the Blue Belt programme and the Darwin Plus Local funding programme, we are investing in research to better understand the impacts of biodiversity loss and to develop innovative solutions for conservation.
- Collaborative Efforts: We will continue to collaborate with non-governmental organizations, academia, and the private sector to foster partnerships that support biodiversity conservation on a larger scale.
On this International Day for Biodiversity, we call upon individuals, communities, and businesses to join us in taking action. Every small step counts – whether it's planting a tree, reducing plastic use, purchasing sustainable fashion, cosmetics or household items, or supporting conservation efforts, together we can make a significant impact.
Our actions today will determine the health and prosperity of generations to come. Let us celebrate the beauty and richness of our beautiful islands and commit to protecting it for the future.
For more information about our initiatives and how you can get involved, please visit our Instagram (@DECR_TCI) and Facebook pages or contact the Department at environment@gov.tc.
RTCIPF Issues Warning
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force warns persons about sharing private, sexual photographs and films of others on public forums.
The RTCIPF has recently received numerous complaints about people sharing intimate images on public forums and between others without the consent of the person who appears in the imagery.
The sharing of these materials in such circumstances is a criminal offence.
Under Section 47 of the Sexual Offences Ordinance (2021): “(1) It is an offence for a person to disclose a private sexual photograph or film if the disclosure is made— (a)without the consent of an individual who appears in the photograph or film; and (b) with the intention of causing that individual distress.”
A person guilty of this offence under this section is liable— (a) on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to a fine of $10,000, or to both; or (b) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or to a fine or both.
The RTCIPF takes all such reports seriously and will take robust action against those involved.
If you receive the material without a request or other proactive action to acquire it, forwarding such material or otherwise sharing it could result in you being investigated and prosecuted for the offence.
Anyone possessing such material should think very carefully before forwarding or otherwise sharing it, considering its adverse impact on persons who appear in the imagery and the potential personal consequences of a criminal investigation.
US CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION MEETS TCI GOVERNMENT
This morning, Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick received a US Congressional delegation at the Governor’s Office, Providenciales, following a request for a meeting to discuss the recent arrests of US nationals for possession of ammunition offences.
The US delegation raised five cases of US nationals currently before the courts, concern for their well-being and clarification on the legal process.
To maintain the integrity of the legal process, the Governor confirmed it would not be appropriate to facilitate the delegation’s request to meet with the Chief Justice.
The Governor and the Premier confirmed – as per the constitutional separation of the executive and judicial branches – that they cannot intervene nor comment on ongoing legal cases before the courts. They explained that the Turks and Caicos Islands
have clear laws prohibiting the possession of firearms and/or ammunition and strict penalties are in place to serve and protect all who reside and visit the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Hon. Attorney General confirmed possession of firearm and/or ammunition offences carries a mandatory minimum custodial sentence of twelve years plus a fine.
Where the court finds there are exceptional circumstances, the sentencing judge does have discretion, under the law, to impose a custodial sentence and a fine that are fair and just in the circumstances of each case rather than impose the mandatory minimum. Noting that it is for defence counsel to ensure all relevant information is put before the court.
The UK Government’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office representative who was in attendance at the meeting affirmed that the UK Government cannot comment or intervene in an ongoing legal case and that as a British Overseas Territory, the UK have full confidence in the operation of the courts of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Governor and Premier appreciated that the circumstances for US nationals who find themselves in this position can be difficult but were aware that US officials are providing consular support to each of the individuals. They noted that the Turks and Caicos Islands law enforcement agencies apply professional standard operating procedures for processing matters through the legal system and that they will investigate any concerns where it was felt standards were not met.
The Governor and Premier noted the prohibited items of ammunition were not identified at US departure screening, and the responsibility of travellers to ensure their baggage is free of firearms and/or ammunition prior to travel to the Turks and
Caicos Islands.
They noted that the National Security Council keeps under review the operational effectiveness of legislative provisions that underpin internal and border security. The meeting concluded with both parties recognising continued Turks and Caicos Islands– United States partnerships to tackle shared threats in the region.
World Foundation Visits to support children across the Turks & Caicos Islands.
The Department of Special Education Needs Services (SENS) of the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture is proud to announce the successful completion of a comprehensive screening initiative led by the dedicated 1 World team. Over the course of their visit, the team provided invaluable assessments and support to 55 children under the age of 8, across the islands of Grand Turk, South Caicos, North and Middle Caicos, and Providenciales.
The 1 World Foundation’s mission was to address various referral concerns, ensuring early detection and intervention for developmental and educational needs. Their work has significantly contributed to the well-being and future success of our young learners.
Director of SENS department, Dr. Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the team’s dedication: “We are immensely grateful for the 1 World team’s commitment to our children. They have provided services to this country over several years, and their expertise and compassion have provided critical support to our families. I wish to commend our Coordinator of Assessments, Mrs. Lashaunda Skippings, who spearheaded the initiative and ensured a smooth and effective visit.” Commenting on the program, Mrs. Skippings noted, “The assessments conducted by the 1 World team have been transformative for our children. By identifying specific needs early, we can tailor our interventions to better support each child’s unique development journey. This initiative has brought hope and clarity to many families across our islands.”
Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, praised the initiative and its outcomes: “The visit of the 1 World team marks a significant step forward in our commitment to inclusive education. Their work aligns perfectly with our vision of providing comprehensive support to all students, ensuring no child is left behind. We are dedicated to continuing this partnership and building on the progress made.”
During their visit, the 1 World team also engaged in a productive courtesy call with the Minister of Education, the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Cherylann Jones, and the Director of SENS. The meeting with the CEO of the 1 World Foundation provided an opportunity to discuss future collaborations and reinforce our shared commitment to the children of Turks and Caicos Islands.
This initiative exemplifies the power of partnership and the profound impact that dedicated professionals can have on the lives of children. The Department of Special Education Needs Services looks forward to continuing this important work and building a brighter future for all our students. For more information, please contact the department on sens@gov.tc.
Matthews wins third ICC Player-of-the-Month award
West Indies Women captain, Hayley Matthews, has won a third International Cricket Council’s Player-of-the-Month award, following her outstanding all-round performances in the recent white-ball series against Pakistan Women.
The stylish 26-year-old right-hander plundered two hundreds in the three-match One-Day International series to finish with 325 runs at an average of 162, while also taking six wickets, as the Caribbean side pulled off a whitewash in Karachi last month.
Matthews returned in the five Twenty20 Internationals to gather 205 runs at an average of 41 and take another six wickets, to steer her side to a comfortable 4-1 series win.
The Player-of-the-Month award for the Barbadian follows those she won in October 2023 and November 2021.
“I am really happy to win the award again. These performances resulted in the team’s success and that’s the most important thing for me as captain,” said Matthews.
“To win in Pakistan was always a big goal. I wanted to perform well and contribute to the team’s success so to be able to have performances and get the results, that was really good and showed that the hard work and the concentration in Pakistan paid off.”
She continued: “Being able to set some new records and achieve some new milestones as well was good for me so I’m extremely happy. We have confidence and we will take this with us going into the tour of Sri Lanka and look to secure more crucial points in the ICC Women’s Championship.”
Matthews, already a veteran of 83 ODIs and 93 T20Is, beat out competition from Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu and South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt.
They did not make it out of the first round of the past two T20I World Cups – in 2021 in Oman and the United Arab Emirates and two years ago in Australia – and failed to qualify for last year’s ICC Men’s One-day International Cricket World Cup in India.
“It’s not going to be easy, but we are one of only two nations to have won it twice, so we are going to try and make it three,” Ambrose added.
“And no other nation has ever won it on home soil, so all that is motivation for the guys to do well, and I am hoping they can do it.”
West Indies are part of Group C in the World Cup and face Papua New Guinea, Uganda, New Zealand, and Afghanistan.
Ambrose said he expects that there could be a few upsets during the tournament – he hopes none involve West Indies – because every side has plenty of talented players at their disposal.
“I admire a lot of cricketers (at the T20I World Cup), and I am looking forward to them doing well,” he said. “As a proud Antiguan and being from the West Indies, I want the West Indies to win.
“It’s not going to be easy because in T20 cricket every team has an equal chance of beating any other team and that is just the nature of T20 cricket. It’s going to be exciting, but I am going to be rooting for West Indies.”
Source-CMC