Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin Remarks at the Swearing–ceremony
Her Excellency the Governor, Mrs. Dileeni, Daniel-Selvaratnam.
The Honorable Premier Mr. Charles Washington Misick,
Speaker of the House, The Honorable Gordon Burton,
Her Ladyship, the Chief Justice, The Honorable Mabel Agyuemang
Her Excellency the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Anya Williams.
The Honorable Deputy Premier, Mr. Jamell Robinson
Minister of Tourism, the Honorable Josephine Connolly
Minister of Home Affairs, the Honorable Otis Chuck Morris
Minister of Immigration and Border Services, the Honorable Arlington Musgrove
Minister of Education, the Honorable Rachel Taylor
Minister of Health and Human Services, the Honorable Shaun Malcolm
Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, the Honorable Kyle Knowles
Attorney General, The Honorable Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles
Leader of the Opposition, The Honorable Edwin Astwood
Elected Members Representatives.
Permanent Secretaries and Executive Directors of the Civil Service Members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force
Executive.
Specially invited guests, Members of the Media, and persons listening and viewing at home and in the diaspora.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good Morning.
I wish to take this opportunity to extend condolences to the families and friends of Omarian Gardiner and Anlinco Lightbourne, who were killed over the weekend.
The first order of business is to thank God as he directs my path.
I am grateful for his guidance and his blessings. As the scripture says, and I quote, “To whom much is given, much
will be required.”
I am also aware of another scripture quote: "Unless he keeps the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.”
As I stand here before you, a humble servant, I remain conscious that God's infinite guidance, power, and wisdom will direct our path in executing this tremendous mandate.
I must also thank the Government and people of TCI, specifically Her Excellency the Governor and the Honorable Premier, for having confidence in my ability to serve these beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.
I look forward to working collaboratively with police officers, stakeholders, and the National Security Council to improve safety and security for all.
Colleagues, at this moment, I can feel the enormity of the responsibility bestowed upon me and the weight of accountability and
expectations of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and the community we serve.
I also feel an unprecedented opportunity and distinguished privilege to serve the people of this beautiful nation by leading the police force into an era of modern policing and greater community engagement.
I accept this responsibility, cognizant of the dynamic, complex, diverse, and multidimensional nature of the local, regional, and global criminal landscape.
As your Commissioner of Police, I assure you of my unwavering commitment to serving this nation with pride and integrity. I commit to being a Commissioner for the people and doing everything within my power to safeguard our communities from the threats of criminal elements.
These threats include but are not limited to Transnational Organized Crime and its associated ills of illegal drugs, gang violence, and illegal firearms, which are causing havoc in our communities.
We are facing Immigration challenges, the potential for acts of terrorism, technical crimes such as cybersecurity attacks, and a
plethora of domestic crimes.
I urge you not to despair; while those threats may be challenging, they are not insurmountable. Defeating these threats requires a police force that is focused, well-trained, and adequately resourced to confront these challenges and deliver optimal law enforcement services….because the TCI deserves nothing less.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force MUST retool and re-engineer its structure, methods, and approaches to prevent, respond to, and detect acts of criminality and those responsible.
It is understood that the community we serve demands greater efficiency and effectiveness from FORCE in ensuring community
safety and security.
But we can’t do this alone.
We need you.
Your community needs you.
The TCI needs you.
I need you.
Your Police Force needs you to work with us “Side by Side” to help us better serve you, deter the criminal elements that threaten our safety and security, and create a safer community.
I acknowledge that our force's true strength lies in its capability and arsenal and, more importantly, in its partnerships and collaborations to create safer and more resilient neighborhoods.
Fellow officers, please note that the public deserves an accountable police force, a police force that is PROFESSIONAL and responsive to the needs of its citizens.
One that is trusted and has the support of the people it serves.
In this context, as a service organization, and with any such organization, there will be allegations that cause the public to
question our integrity.
As law enforcers, we must seek out and purge the organization of any semblance of BIAS, CORRUPTION, and MALFEASANCE.
It cannot be a case of doing as I say and not as I do.
Simultaneously, at the Executive level, we must address the issues that negatively impact morale and motivation – particularly ensuring
fairness and impartiality in providing opportunities and ensuring the best candidates are promoted to ensure continuity and succession planning. Anything less will be an injustice to the organization and, by extension, the public.
Colleagues, we must do everything possible to inspire confidence in our police force and improve our legitimacy as gatekeepers of law and order.
To improve public trust and confidence, we will seek to create a force of COMPETENCE, PROFESSIONALISM, and INTEGRITY.
We will seek to establish an emotionally intelligent police force.
We will strive to have our officers versed in the application of the law and customer relations, discretion, and compassion while firm and decisive in responding to law violations.
My aim is for our officers, in the new dispensation, to relentlessly embrace and apply technological and scientific methods to pursue criminals who are causing fear of crime in our communities.
We are on our way to 21st-century policing.
In the line of duty, we encounter criminal elements who seem determined to cause harm and mayhem.
Our advice to you is to STOP NOW!!
There have been too many senseless, irrational, gut-wrenching killings and other acts of violence. The glaring disregard for human life and the safety of our communities is outrageous and unacceptable.
It robs society of its human capital needed to foster growth and development.
Under my watch, I can assure you that the RTCIPF will not sit idly by and observe this unrelenting rampage and havoc within communities.
Today, I call on you to put down your weapons of destruction and change your criminal ways.
The eye for an eye mentality will eventually result in the whole society becoming blind, and you are hurting and destroying the
same community you are a part of.
I am calling on officers, stakeholders, and community members to build a national coalition against criminality in all its forms.
Let us work together to flush this evil menace of violence from our midst.
Let us adopt an all-hands-on-deck approach. There should be no bystander in addressing this carnage in our communities.
I now take this opportunity to share a few intended actions the Force’s
The executive will seek to progress in building safer communities.
1. We will work aggressively to address the spate of violent crimes. (TOC immigration and violence).
2. We will collaborate with stakeholders to address safety challenges in the Tourism industry. I understand how critical it is
to our economy.
3. We will seek to redefine the police force's image and, by extension, become the “Pride of TCI.”
4. We will foster greater technology integration into law enforcement. (Drones, bodycams, CCTV and links).
5. We will restructure better to serve our people's current and future needs and achieve better alignment with contemporaries.
6. We will create a Transparent and Accountable Force.
7. We will expand community policing efforts while merging intelligence-led policing with problem-oriented policing into our
strategic planning processes.
8. We will increase our collaboration with stakeholders and the community through frequent Town Hall Meetings.
9. We will focus more on meeting our officer’s needs, including safety at police stations.
10. We will aspire to have a well-trained, well-equipped, technologically advanced police force that can adequately address our community's security needs.
Colleagues, it would be remiss of me not to recognize the efforts of the officers who have contributed immensely to community safety.
You may not be aware, but many officers remained on duty for days, sometimes weeks, often to the inconvenience of their families, in pursuit of solving serious crimes and protecting the community.
We will harness and sustain this dedication to duty to engender higher productivity.
Many thanks to Mr. Christopher Eyre and Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr. Rodney Adams for standing in the gap and doing
extraordinary work to advance the missions of the RT&CIPF.
I want to take this opportunity to assure the RT&CIPF ranks and file that, as your Commissioner, I will seek opportunities to improve working conditions, provide training, leverage partnerships, and ensure you are well-resourced to do the job you have been entrusted with effectively.
In conclusion, I pledge that my team and I will meet with various organizations in the days and weeks ahead.
I will visit communities across the TCI to engage you in fostering our partnership. I look forward to hearing your concerns and suggestions during these visits and at our Town Hall meetings as we chart the way forward.
Colleagues, I will also visit every station and department across the Force to learn about your problems and challenges.
Let's work tirelessly to create a safer and more just society.
Let us move forward with determination, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.
Thank You.
TCI POST CABINET MEETING STATEMENT - 10 APRIL 2024
Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam chaired the 11th meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the Office of the Premier on the island of Providenciales.
All members were present except the Honorable Ministers of Tourism and the Environment and the Ministry of Home Affairs who were away from the islands on official duties.
At this meeting Cabinet:
- Approved the Border Force Bill 2024 as a standalone bill creating the legal framework for the legal operation of the Border Force for advancement to the House of Assembly
- Approved the Customs (Amendment) Bill 2024 as a standalone bill creating a legal framework for the legal operation of the Border Force for advancement to the House of Assembly
- Approved the Crime Prevention Strategy Targeting At at-risk Youth
- Approved to establishment the Juvenile Prevention and Intervention Council (JPIC), which will subsequently work collectively to develop policy and procedures, crime prevention strategy, and service legal agreements that will govern all services upon completion
- Approved TBH Provo Ltd. (The Hotel Operating Co. Ltd./Beach House) to extend a Refurbishment Order previously granted to complete refurbishments previously agreed
- Noted an information paper on the TCI National ID Concept Core Model
- Approved the reappointment of Mr. Joseph Connolly as a Member of the National Insurance Board (employer representative) effective April 15, 2024, for a period of 3 years
- Approved the appointment of Mr. Jermaine Fulford as a Member of the National Insurance Board (insured person) for a period of 3 years effective April 15th, 2024
- Noted an information paper on the Statutory and Good Governance Pay and Grading Review as of April 9, 2024, which is scheduled to take place from April to July, 2024 and to establish the Governance Committee
- Accepted the resignation of Bishop Vernal G. Clarke as a Member of the Health Regulation Board and agreed to rescind this appointment
- Approved the appointment of Bishop Andrew Stone as a Member of the Health Regulation Authority Board for a period of 3 years effective April 15, 2024
- Approved the appointment of the following individuals as Members of the Labour Tribunal for a period of 2 years effective April 1, 2024:
- Mr. Edward Hall, Senior Member (representative of employees)
- Mr. Samuel Williams, Senior Member (representative of employers)
- Mr. Vernon Alco Williams, Senior Member (representative of employees)
- Ms. Arnelle Taylor, Attorney (representative of employers)
- Mr. Carlis Williams (representative of employees GDT)
- Mrs. Kenya Forbes-Jagger (representative of employers)
- Ms. Kerchelle Bain, Attorney (representative of employees)
- Ms. Yolander Forbes (representative of employers)
- Ms. Veronica Rigby (representative of employees) New appointment
- Ms. Mary Cunningham (representative of employers) New appointment
SCOTIABANK TURKS & CAICOS SECURES 4TH WIN AS BEST BANK
Scotiabank Turks & Caicos has secured the ‘Best Bank’ award from renowned North American finance magazine, Global Finance for the fourth consecutive year.
The award celebrates banks that demonstrate the strength of strategy for attracting and servicing digital customers, success in onboarding clients to use digital offerings, growth of digital customers, breadth of product offerings, evidence of tangible benefits gained from digital initiatives, and website and mobile app design and functionality.
Dr. Suzan Snaggs-Wilson, Managing Director for Scotiabank Turks & Caicos said the bank continues to make significant investments in its digital infrastructure to satisfy its customers’ needs. She further lauded her team’s commitment to the bank’s digital transformation, noting that their encouragement among customers solidified the strong adaptation witnessed.
“At Scotiabank, we remain committed to proactively assessing and working to meet the needs of our customers through accessible and easy-to-use banking solutions that enhance their experience. This award underscores our strategic commitment to advancing accessibility and convenience across our services, and we take great pride in being honored with the esteemed Best Bank award for the fourth time running,” she said.
Dr. Snaggs-Wilson also highlighted the Bank’s convenient and customer-focused approach to banking positively impacted its client interactions and satisfaction.
The annual World’s Best Bank award selects the top performers among banks and other providers of financial services and has become a trusted standard of excellence for the global financial community. The magazine recognized 28 banks in Latin America and the Caribbean in this year’s 31st announcement.
Scotiabank Turks & Caicos joins its regional counterparts in Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and The Bahamas, in receiving the award.
Bill to ban TikTok in US moves ahead
The US House of Representatives approved a bill Saturday that would force the wildly popular social media app TikTok to divest from its Chinese parent company ByteDance or be shut out of the American market.
US and other Western officials have voiced alarm over the popularity of TikTok with young people, alleging that it allows Beijing to spy on users. It has 170 million in the United States alone.
These critics also say TikTok is subservient to Beijing and a conduit to spread propaganda. China and the company deny these claims.
The bill, which could trigger the rare step of barring a company from operating in the US market, now goes to the Senate for a vote next week. It passed the House on Saturday with strong bipartisan support, by a margin of 360 to 58.
President Joe Biden has stated he will sign the legislation. He reiterated his concerns about TikTok in a telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping early this month.
The ultimatum to the social media app was included in a broader text that provides aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.
TikTok quickly complained Saturday after the vote, saying in a statement “it is unfortunate that the House of Representatives is using the cover of important foreign and humanitarian assistance to once again jam through a ban bill that would trample the free speech rights of 170 million Americans, devastate seven million businesses, and shutter a platform that contributes $24 billion to the US economy, annually.”
Under the bill, ByteDance would have to sell the app within a year or be excluded from Apple and Google’s app stores in the United States.
The House of Representatives last month approved a similar bill cracking down on TikTok, but the measure got held up in the Senate.
Steven Mnuchin, who served as US treasury secretary under former president Donald Trump, has said he is interested in acquiring TikTok and has assembled a group of investors.
TikTok has been in the crosshairs of US authorities for years, with authorities saying the platform allows Beijing to snoop on users in the United States.
But a law banning it could trigger lawsuits. This bill gives the US president the authority to designate other applications as a threat to national security if they are controlled by a country deemed hostile.
Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, formerly Twitter, came out Friday against banning TikTok, saying it went against freedom of expression.
“TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the X platform,” Musk said in a post on the social network he acquired in 2022.
“Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression,” said Musk
Source-Jamaica Observer
Judge rejects Trump effort to pause Jan. 6 civil lawsuits while criminal case is ongoing
A federal judge has rejected an effort by former President Donald Trump to pause several civil lawsuits filed against him seeking to hold him accountable for his actions leading up to the Jan. 6 riot, according to a newly posted ruling.
Trump had asked D.C. District Judge Amit Mehta to stay proceedings in the lawsuits -- brought by several members of Congress and police officers who protected the Capitol on January 6 -- while his federal criminal case brought by Special Counsel Jack Smith was ongoing.
Trump's attorneys reasoned that defending himself from the lawsuits could improperly impact his defense strategy in his criminal case, which Mehta rejected in his ruling.
Meanwhile, Twelve jurors and one alternate have been seated in the historic criminal trial of former President Donald Trump.
After a setback Thursday morning resulting in the dismissal of two jurors who had been seated on Tuesday, lawyers for both sides quickly exhausted their strikes and landed on a jury of seven men and five women to sit in judgment of the former president.
Jury selection was scheduled to resume on Friday to find the remaining five alternate jurors for the case.
Source-ABC
Grammy-winning American Idol season 5 star Mandisa dead at 47
Singer Mandisa, who reached the top 10 on American Idol season 5 and later became a Grammy-winning Christian artist, has died, ABC Audio has confirmed. She was 47.
“We can confirm that yesterday [April 18] Mandisa was found in her home deceased," her rep said in a statement to ABC Audio. "At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Mandisa finished ninth on the American Idol season that was won by Taylor Hicks and also gave us Katharine McPhee, Chris Daughtry and Kellie Pickler. During her time on the show, Simon Cowell made cruel comments to her about her weight. She told him she forgave him, adding, "If Jesus could die so that all of my wrongs could be forgiven, I can certainly extend that same grace to you." Cowell then apologized to her.
After her time on Idol, Mandisa released her debut album, True Beauty, in 2007. It debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top Christian Albums chart and received a Grammy nomination — one of five nods she'd eventually receive. In 2014, her album Overcomer won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. Her most recent album, Out of the Dark, came out in 2017.
In 2022, she released a memoir, also called Out of the Dark, in which she detailed her past trauma and mental health struggles.
In a statement, David Pierce, the chief media officer of K-Love, a Christian radio network, wrote on social media, "Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles. Mandisa’s struggles are over, she is with the God she sang about now."
Source-ABC
CARICOM youths to discuss climate change and health issues
On Wednesday, a four-day workshop aimed at empowering Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Youth Ambassadors (CYAs) and other youth leaders to confront the global challenge of climate change gets underway.
The Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat said that the “CARICOM Climate Change and Health Orientation and Training for CYAs and Youth Leaders” will bring together more than 30 youth advocates and regional stakeholders.
It said that the event aligns seamlessly with the Secretariat’s Climate Change and Health Programme (CCHP) which is aimed at deepening awareness of how climate change affects health and disseminating knowledge on prevention and adaptation measures to reduce greenhouse gases.
The workshop is being supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the European Union (EU), and the Caribbean Community Forum (CARIFORUM).
Deputy Programme Manager, Youth Development, at the CARICOM Secretariat, Michele Small-Bartley, said the exercise is intended to elevate youth leaders’ awareness of the health impacts of climate change and enhance their engagement in identifying and implementing effective strategies to mitigate these impacts.
“The workshop will provide these young leaders with the requisite knowledge, skills, and tools for identifying and addressing climate change-induced health issues within their respective countries and communities.”
She said the workshop is also intended to extend support in developing national and community projects geared towards bolstering efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on health and address community needs.
Mitigating the effects of climate change in the region has already been a priority for the CYAs under the CCHP.
In St Kitts-Nevis, CYAs implemented a six-month project in which young people were engaged in implementing household waste management techniques to reduce methane emissions and the effects of climate change.
In Trinidad and Tobago, there was “The Eco Restorers Project”, which allowed for participants to learn about the recycling process and how it helps mitigate the effects of climate change, and how to convert recycled products into sustainable business ideas.
Source-CMC
IMF predicts two per cent economic growth for Caribbean in 2024
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region has showed “quite a bit of resilience” and that the rebound from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been stronger than previously expected.
“We see resilience partly as a result of countries progress in strengthening their macroeconomic frameworks. With most economies now operating near potential, however, activity in the region has been generally moderating in recent quarters,” Rodrigo Valdes, the director of the IMF’s Western Hemisphere Department told reporters at the bank’s annual Regional Economic Outlook Press Briefing for the Western Hemisphere.
He said on a positive side, labour markets have remained pretty resilient, with unemployment still at historical low levels almost everywhere.
“With an external environment that, at least in the trade side, is weakening and the effect of monetary policy tightening to bring down inflation in the region and those effects still materializing.
“We expect growth in Latin America and in the Caribbean to moderate further this year. Slowing from 2.3 per cent that the region grew in 2023 to two per cent this year.”
Source-CMC
Captain Matthews leads by example as Windies Women beat Pakistan
A Player-of-the-Match performance from their Captain Hayley Matthews drove West Indies Women to a 113-run win against hosts Pakistan Women in the first ICC Women’s Championship One-day International (ODI) on Thursday.
The 25-year-old Barbadian all-rounder carried her bat for her fifth ODI hundred, a career-best, undefeated 140 from 150 balls that included 15 fours and one six and powered the Caribbean side to 269 for eight after they decided to bat in the 50 overs-a-side match at the National Stadium.
Matthews then spearheaded the bowling of the West Indies Women taking three for 17 from six overs with her flighty off-spin, and the Pakistanis were bundled out for 136 in 35.5 overs to hand the visitors a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The result meant that the Windies Women earned two points in the 10-team ICC Women’s Championship table towards direct qualification for next year’s ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup to be staged in India.
Matthews’ side now have 10 points from 13 matches, and they are ninth in the standings with plenty of work to do to try to become one of the five team that directly qualify for the World Cup along with the hosts.
West Indies Women were one for one in the third over after wicketkeeper-opener Rashada Williams was caught and bowled by Sadia Iqbal for one, and they limped to 43 for one at the close of the first Power Play.
But Matthews and her deputy Shemaine Campbelle stepped up the momentum in a second-wicket stand of 102 that was the rock upon which the Caribbean side built their innings — and there was little substance and stability from the rest of the batting.
Campbelle made 45 and all-rounder Chinelle Henry got 23, but none of the visitors’ remaining batsmen reached 20, with left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, who opened the bowling, and leg-spinner Tuba Hassan the most successful bowlers for Pakistan Women with two wickets apiece.
Henry made the breakthrough for West Indies Women when she held a return catch to dismiss opener Sidra Ameen for one in the second over, and fellow pacer Shamilia Connell got the experienced Bismah Maroof caught behind for seven in the fifth over.
The Caribbean side restricted the Pakistanis to 53 for two at the end of the first Power Play, and Matthews triggered a slump when she got opposition Captain Nida Dar caught behind for 19 and finished off the run out of opener Muneeba Ali for 22.
West Indies Women continued to chip away at the home team’s batting with leg-spinner Afy Fletcher and left-arm spinner Zaida James taking two wickets apiece, but Tuba made 25 and wicketkeeper-batsman Najiha Alvi made 20 in a stand of 37 for the seventh wicket to briefly frustrate the visitors.
The second ODI will take place on Sunday at the same venue, where the third ODI will be played two days later.
THE DEPUTY PREMIER & MINISTRY OF PHYSICAL PLANNING & INFRASTUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
Mr. Speaker, fellow colleagues, strangers in the gallery, and the citizens of our great nation, it is indeed a great day here in these islands and certainly a privilege to be in the Nation’s Capital, here in the people’s house to deliver on behalf of the people of this country. Mr. Speaker, I align myself with the condolences expressed, particularly to the Freites family here in Grand Turk, especially Ms. Elizabeth whom we work very closely with in the Premier’s Office.
Proverbs 21:5 reads; “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Mr. Speaker, this scripture emphasizes the importance of careful planning and diligence in managing the finances of this country. We are fully cognizant, Mr. Speaker, that the public purse belongs to the people and so we have diligently strategized how we will not only spend but invest every cent into the development of this country and its citizens. As I rise today, Mr. Speaker, I am excited as Minister of Physical Planning & Infrastructure Development, imbued with a profound sense of responsibility and a distinct vision for the future of our country’s infrastructure. Our mandate is clear: to build and maintain the physical foundation upon which our society thrives. Our commitment is to enhance the quality of life for each citizen, to develop our communities, and to strengthen the backbone of our economy; our infrastructure.
Mr. Speaker, there are several Departments under our Ministry’s purviews. Allow me to take this Honorable House through our achievement and our goals over the next fiscal year.
*Department of Planning: **
The Department of Planning is tasked with formulating comprehensive and sustainable development plans across the country. In our quest to make services more accessible and transparent, the department will enhance data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement to ensure that our planning processes are inclusive and responsive to our citizens' needs. Mr. Speaker, this new application system will enable the Department to automate plan submissions, review and approve during the processes. Users will be able to import plans and supporting documents directly into the system where they are automatically organized and routed to the appropriate viewers. Through these efforts, community development and infrastructure initiatives will be accelerated. This new electronic plan review system will transform the planning process, support efficient collaboration, and improve public transparency. This initiative will enable us to build more resilient and vibrant communities for the future. This, Mr. Speaker, is the work of a progressive Government.
Over the past year, The Department has been working closely with the informal settlements unit to address these settlements within our communities. One hundred and sixty-five (165) structures have been identified for demolition, two hundred and eighteen (218) enforcement notices have been issued, three cases progressed before the court and twelve (12) penalty fines distributed totaling seventy-five thousand dollars. Mr. Speaker, this is a government in action.
Mr. Speaker, we have made progress in advancing the review and amendment of the National Physical Development Plan 2020 to make changes to the zoning of specific parcels. These amendments will facilitate sustainable urban development while ensuring compliance with local regulations and addressing community needs as they arise. This has already been noted in Cabinet and will progress to the next stages. They say the proof is in the pudding? Well, it just got sweeter because we are delivering for the people and doing more in 2024.
**Department of Housing and Community Renewal: **
Affordable housing and community renewal are key priorities for our government. The Department of Housing and Community Renewal will receive significant funding to support the development of affordable housing projects, improve community infrastructure, and revitalize blighted areas. We are committed to ensuring that all our citizens have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing options. Mr. Speaker, following the successful launch of the National Housing Policy, the Department has made significant strides in achieving its objectives. The application process was opened to the public and eleven (11) applications were received for program 1, three hundred and thirty-two (332) applications under program 2 and thirty-eight (38) expressions of interest in program 3. Of the 332 applications received, 289 were shortlisted. These applications have been grouped into batches and repairs for the first batch of applicants are due to commence shortly. The Cabinet has approved the proposal to streamline the allocation of Crown Land for Housing Development from recommendations made during the public consultation. Vehicles for this department have been tendered and we hope to have them mobilized very soon to assist with conducting site inspections during the construction phase of these projects. The Department has proposed a detailed concession package for developers under our program 1 which will incentivize their participation along with other benefits. Mr. Speaker, I know some people here are like doubting Thomas; they need to see it to believe but things are happening in this department. We are developing an online application portal to streamline the submission process of applications where the public and potential developers can upload all attachments from one location, minimizing errors and improving efficiency. Mr. Speaker, an affordability index is also being developed by the Housing Department to determine what constitutes affordable housing across the various islands and constituencies considering factors such as housing costs, household size etc. and this is being done in collaboration with the Statistics Authority. It’s been a long time coming but change is here.
**Department of Estates Management: **
The efficient management of government estates is essential for the effective delivery of public services. The Department of Estates Management will receive additional resources to maintain and upgrade government buildings, improve efficiency, and ensure a conducive working environment for civil servants. We will also explore opportunities to optimize the use of government assets. Mr. Speaker, our public service is growing, Ministries and Departments are outgrowing their current workspaces, and Estates Management must move quickly to secure comfortable working environments for staff across the Government. To this end, a sum of $5.4M has been allocated for rental spaces to ensure that our people are in suitable environments to carry out the work that they are expected to produce. This is an increase of 15% over last year’s outturns. Mr. Speaker, within the last fiscal year, attempts were made to privatize janitorial services, however, because we are a government who seeks to do things and do it well; we’ve met some challenges during the process and therefore made the decision to delay this project until the appropriate mechanisms have been established.
**Public Works Department: **
The Public Works Department which is responsible for the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure have an allocated sum of over $7M to support the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, expand access to underserved areas, and enhance resilience in infrastructure projects. Our goal is to create a robust and reliable infrastructure network that supports economic growth and social development.
**Mechanical Department: **
The Mechanical Department plays a crucial role in maintaining and repairing essential mechanical systems in government buildings and infrastructure. We have allocated funds for the procurement of new equipment to improve the standards of the mechanical workshops across the islands by conducting repairs to the facilities and procuring heavy duty and specialist equipment. Training of personnel, and the implementation of preventive maintenance programs to ensure the efficient operation of mechanical systems across the country is also a priority for this division. We have commenced the preparation for a new government fleet which will include streamlining the procurement process, reviewing the existing fleet and preparing for the support of plug-in hybrid units and eventually move towards electric capabilities. Mr. Speaker, we are currently working assiduously to finalize the vehicle policy that will apply to ministries across government. It has already been drafted and circulated and will move to its final stages to be submitted to Cabinet for approval.
**Project Management Department: **
Effective project management is essential for the successful implementation of infrastructure projects. The Project Management Department will receive increased funding to strengthen project oversight, improve coordination among stakeholders, and enhance the monitoring and evaluation of projects. We are committed to delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Mr. Speaker, this budget allocation will facilitate training and certification of our staff compliment in FIDIC contracts, project management PMI and PMP from the project Management Institute, RICS for quantity Surveyors and Estimators, and other technical areas across various disciplines to ensure they remain current with standard procedures and industry practices.
**Maintenance Department: **
The Maintenance Department plays a vital role in ensuring the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of public infrastructure assets. We have increased funding for routine maintenance activities, repair works, and asset management programs to prolong the lifespan of infrastructure assets and reduce long-term maintenance costs. We are committed to ensuring that our infrastructure remains safe, functional, and sustainable for years to come.
Firstly, Mr. Speaker, the maintenance of schools and other public buildings is not just an investment in bricks and mortar; it is an investment in our future generations. Therefore, we are dedicating a significant portion of our budget to ensure that our educational facilities are not only safe and conducive to learning but are also equipped to inspire and nurture the leaders of tomorrow. We will be upgrading classrooms, improving sanitation facilities, and ensuring that our schools are technologically ready to meet the demands of modern education.
Secondly, Mr. speaker, we are acutely aware that our nation is no stranger to the wrath of nature. Hurricane shelters are a critical aspect of our disaster preparedness strategy. This year, we are increasing funds allocated to the strengthening and expansion of our hurricane shelters. These sanctuaries must be capable of withstanding the severest of storms, offering a haven to those whose homes are threatened.
In the realm of road maintenance, our budget reflects an understanding that well-maintained roads are the arteries of our economy facilitating daily commutes. We are earmarking substantial resources for the repair and resurfacing of roads, and the implementation of modern traffic management solutions to reduce congestion and enhance safety. Mr. Speaker, $2M has been allocated for the initial phase of solar streetlights across constituencies, $2M for road paving and grading, an additional $1.35M in the Framework Agreement to aid in the delivery of the Public Work Ordinance. We aren’t talking small change Mr. Speaker; we are spending big money.
Moreover, community enhancement is a testament to our belief in not just the functionality, but also the spirit of our public spaces. We are significantly increasing the budget to beautify parks, create public recreational facilities, and revitalize communal spaces. These projects are designed to foster community pride, encourage social cohesion, and promote improved family lifestyles.
**Disaster Management & Emergencies**
As Minister with responsibilities for the Department of Disaster Management, I am pleased to report Mr. speaker that we have given this Department two new homes in both Grand Turk and Providenciales through the purchase of a building that will serve as the headquarters and office space and the eminent relocation. Now the team will have adequate space for effective coordination of responses to emergencies. Strategic investments are at the core of this government, focusing on long-term benefits rather than short-term gains.
Mr. speaker with a designated $1.4M for generators and housing we are ensuring that the department is equipped with the necessary resources to effectively navigate any potential adverse outcomes. We are also relocating the Grand Turk team to their new office space. The budget delineates clear priorities, earmarking funds for crucial sectors such as disaster management; considering the investments outlined earlier along with significant funding for the maintenance and upkeep of our registered shelters.
**Policy, Planning & Technical Support**
In alignment with our national vision and development goals, we have formulated robust policies aimed at guiding the sustainable growth and modernization of our ministry’s capabilities. We have adopted a comprehensive approach and recognized that the successful implementation of our ambitious agenda requires not only vision but also technical expertise. Therefore, $1.8M earmarked for professional and consultancy affords us the opportunity to provide greater support to projects going forward.
Mr. Speaker, economic projections suggest that the implementation of this budget will lead to job creation, increased productivity, and a more robust economy and so we will improve efforts to engage contractors with periodic training sessions throughout the year equipping them with the skillset to prepare proper bids for both recurrent and capital projects. The intention is for these sessions to be hosted on all islands. Our upcoming 3rd annual contractor’s symposium will further solidify their knowledge enabling our local contractors to participate in works issued by our ministry. Mr. speaker, our aim is to create a skilled workforce with our contractors, establishing a balanced system and minimizing deficiencies in the process. We have also made progressive plans for increased media and communication competencies to keep the public informed of the various programs and expected deadlines.
**Capital Projects**
Despite the size of the budget, fiscal responsibility remains a foundation of our financial strategy. While there have been several capital projects re-tendered, there is still a significant number of projects that fall within this budget cycle:
- Boats for Police (Lot 2)
- Boats for Police (Lot 3)
- CCTV for Police
- Purchase of Patrol Vessel - Regiment
- DECR Equipment - Vessel
- DECR Equipment - Outboard Engines
- Drainage and Site Works HJRHS
- Highway and Road Improvements-GDT
- Remediation Works to Ponds and Bridges - West Road and Church Folly
- Remediation Works to Ponds and Bridges - Ponds for GDT
- Housing Project Initiative - Program 2
- Digitization Phase 2 - Consultancy for National Identification System - Stage 1a
- Land Registry Digitalization Project
- Crown Land Project
- Climate Resilience Coastal Management
- Bridges, Ponds and Roads - GDT Roads
- Consultancy Framework Agreement for Public Works
- Construction of Warehouse Building in Grand Turk
- Consultancy for Geodetic Global Navigation Satellite Systems
- Community Parks Development – Five Cays and Kew Town
- Repairs to RGHS Art Block
- Back-up Generators including Housing
- Biosecurity Unit
- Purchase of Incinerator
- Ambulances for Islands (8 Ambulances)
- Community Roads All Islands – Providenciales
- Leeward Highway Rehabilitation Works
Mr. Speaker, the $1.8M in technical support will aid in these projects being delivered on time, within budget and with maximum return for our citizens.
**Community Enhancement Program/ C.E.P**
The budget for the works program in this fiscal year is ambitious; but necessary. I assure you that every dollar invested in this program has been carefully considered to improve the quality of life for our citizens, to stimulate economic growth and prepare this country for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Mr. speaker, this program has extensive cost benefits and reflects the strategic priorities of this government. In the last financial year, our efforts yielded much success through the following initiatives:
- Construction of two (2) gazebos to the amount of $80,000.00
- Construction of Lunch Shed at HJRHS to the amount of $86,869.00
- RFP for the beatification of the Grand Turk sign to the amount of $37,560.00
- Verge Cleaning works in the amount of $90K
SALT CAY:
- Construction of fencing around landfill/dump site to the amount of $98k.
- Verge cleaning: $37K
- Works to water depot: $9K
- Back-up Generator R.O Plant: $214K
- Deans Dock Repairs: $70k
- Gazebo - North District: $52,500.00
- Gazebo - South District: $47,501.00
- Refurbishment of pool area - Duncombe Point - $9,325. 00
- Garbage receptacles x 4 - $36,582.00
- Duncombe point $8,895.00
- Hurricane Shelter - $9,449.00
- Airport - $9,298.00
- Dean's Dock - $8,940.00
- Fencing to Salt Cay Clinic - $5.849.85
- Refurbishment works to Salt Shed $70k
SOUTH CAICOS:
- Construction of Boat slip/ramp to the amount of $46K
- Construction of Drainage cover to the amount of $36K
MIDDLE CAICOS:
- Demolition Works to the amount of $150K.
PROVIDENCIALES:
- Construction of Sidewalks to the amount of $382K
- Construction of gazebos to the amount of $42K
- Construction of boat ramps to the amounts of $96K
- Construction of Welcome Sign to the amount of $45K.
The Ministry has achieved remarkable milestones spearheading the country’s infrastructural transformation and development. Looking ahead to the new financial year, the Ministry is poised to embark on a rigorous agenda.
Mr. Speaker, we have several new and ambitious projects for the CEP and Capital Projects this year!
GRAND TURK
- Grand Turk Market and Welcome Centre - $2.5M
- Repairs to NJS Francis Park
- Refurbishment of Lester Williams Park
- Community Parks Development – North Back Salina Park
- Refurbishment of West Road Park
SALT CAY
- Works to Matthew Canal- Salt Cay - $800K
- Refurbishment of the Cricket Field - $250K
SOUTH CAICOS
- Improvement to Cockburn Harbour – XSC - $1M
- Regatta Village - $1M
- Conch Ground - $1.5M
- Community Roads - $1.5M
North Caicos
- Whitby Roads – XNC - $1.14M
- Renovation of Whitby Community Center - $50K
- Refurbishment of Hollywood Park - $40K
- Refurbishment of Horse Stable Beach - $550K
- Bottle Creek Community Centre - $3.2M
MIDDLE CAICOS:
- Repairs to Lorimers Community Center - $100K
- Refurbishment of Bambara Community Centre - $50K
- Bambara Beach Project - $800K
PROVIDENCIALES:
Leeward and Long Bay (ED5)
- Community Roads - $350K
- Upgrade to Leeward Palms Park - $85K
- Develop Long Bay Walking Park - $100K
- Speed Tables - $50K
The Bight (ED6)
- Speed Tables - $50K
- Construction of Sidewalks $100K
- Tower Drive Kids Park - $100K
- Community Parks Development – Juba Sound - $85K
- Upgrade the Bight Community Park - $650K
- Community Centre- Bight - $1.5M
Cheshire Hall (ED7)
- Community Roads - $400K
- Speed Tables - $75K
- Construction of Sidewalks $200K
- Refurbishment of Gustavus Lightbourne Complex - $1.2M
Blue Hills (ED8)
- Clementina and Fuller Walkin Park - $550K
- Community Parks Development –Blue Hills – Multipurpose court, kids shaded area, fencing lighting and parking - $150K
- Water Connections - $100K
- Construction of Community Entrance Signs $150K
- Mobile Clinic - Blue Hills - $450K
Five Cays (ED9)
- Beautification to Main Entrance to Five Cays – $100K
- Sidewalks - Chalk Sound - $250K
- Sapodilla Bay Beach Project - $850K
Wheeland and West Caicos (ED10)
Awarded/Commenced or Completed
- Recreational Pavilion - $500K
- Construction of Community Entrance Signs $100K
Mr. Speaker, the investments we are making today are not expenses; they are the seeds of our future prosperity. Each dollar spent is meticulously planned to yield tangible benefits for our communities. Our infrastructure is the stage upon which the story of our nation’s progress is enacted, and with this budget, we are ensuring that this stage is set for a stellar performance in 2024 and beyond.
In conclusion, the budget allocation for the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life for all citizens, and building a resilient infrastructure network for the future. We remain dedicated to efficient resource management, transparent governance, and stakeholder engagement to achieve our nation's development goals.
Before I yield Mr. Speaker, I wish to reference a familiar scripture Matthew 6:21; “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” How we allocate our resources reflects our priorities and values. Our infrastructure reflects our collective ambition. Through careful planning, strategic investment, and a relentless pursuit of development, we are not just building roads, schools, and shelters, we are building a nation.
I will continue to support the efforts of my PPID Team and work towards a prosperous and sustainable future for the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Thank you.