GOVERNMENT’S 200- DAY PROGRESS REPORT
Members of the Cabinet!
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders!
Good Evening!
Let us take a moment to give God thanks for his many blessings which sustained us especially in the difficult times.
It has been a rough 18 months. We have lost many Turks and Caicos Islanders to COVID- 19 and in other ways. To those who carry the burden of loss, I extend my deepest sympathy.
It is said that there is nothing more valuable and honourable than the integrity of your word.
When I took office as your Premier, I promised you transparency and accountability. I promised that I would keep you updated each step of the way, as we work to improve your lives and advance the growth and development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Wednesday September 7th marked 200 days in office for my administration.
We have been busy working on your behalf. Things are not where we want them to be yet, but we are making progress.
After taking office, the team and I took a few weeks to look at what the previous government left. As we faced down the Pandemic, we had to plan carefully to avoid mistakes and disasters.
We developed policies and programmes that would give us the quickest path out of the economic and health crisis that brought such severe hardships and suffering.
We have: Restructured Ministries to make them more effective and service oriented
Assigned Ministerial Portfolios
Assessed the situation within each ministry to see how best we could fast track programmes and allocate resources for the benefit of our people.
Found ways to ease the burdens caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are implementing programmes and policies that will lead to job creation, economic growth, and a better quality of life for all our people.
COVID 19
When we assumed office, COVID-19 was a major threat to the health and wellbeing of our people.
The TCI faced a serious travel warning from the United States and a travel ban from Canada due to COVID and crime.
There were mass cancellations and low occupancy levels. Today we have a different and more positive story to tell:
Infections remain low.
We accelerated the distribution of the COVID 19 Vaccine.
72.3% of Turks and Caicos Islanders are now fully vaccinated including Stamp and Work Permit Holders and persons applying for Permanent Resident Certificates and their dependents.
On September 17, we received our 5th batch of Pfizer vaccines. When administered 75% of the population will be fully vaccinated.
Our protocols meet international travel benchmarks.
The confidence of travellers in the TCI has returned.
When we made the decision to open our borders to the vaccinated, it was the right decision. Now I see many other countries are doing the same.
To address the economic fallout from the pandemic, we provided 15-million dollars in stimulus grants.
Every eligible person over 18 years old who made a request received a cheque for $1,000.
We have provided support to struggling small businesses and self-employed persons by writing off outstanding debts and fees owed to government and statutory bodies.
COVID-19 WORKS PROGRAMME
We have set aside $5.3-million for works projects across the islands. Work has commenced and is being rolled out in categories relating to contractors’ licenses: -
Level One valued at $1,500 to $10,000
Level Two valued at $10,000 to $40,000
Level Three valued at $40,000 to $70,000
Contracts awarded so far:
37 contracts awarded so far for all islands at a value of $202,323 for street cleaning
DemolitionWorks
South Caicos - 7 evaluated and awarded valued at $110,518.77
Grand Turk, 4 tenders closing tomorrow, September 24, 2021. Evaluation next week valued at $76,500
Beach Cleaning-
Grand Turk - Seven locations – Tenders going out next week Tuesday, September 28, 2021 valued at $70k
Road and Verge Cleaning
Providenciales – Tenders going out next week Wednesday, September 29, 2021 valued at $366,600
Scoping works currently taking place today September 23, 2021, for the following islands:
Salt Cay
North Caicos
Middle Caicos
Canal Cleaning
2 tenders for Grand Turk next week, Monday, September 27, 2021 valued at $10,100.00 We are providing gainful employment, restoring hope and dignity while cleaning up and beautifying our land.
BUDGET REFORM
As we deal with the ongoing pandemic, our budget process is continuous and reactive. To this end, we will table a supplementary appropriations bill early in the third quarter.
Our focus will remain on recovery and support measures while helping the most vulnerable.
DIVERSIFICATION OF THE ECONOMY
COVID -19 opened our eyes to the risk we face as a tourism dependent nation. We must diversify the economy and find ways to feed ourselves.
FOOD SECURITY
To achieve food security and cut the import bill, we launched “Growing TCI” as part of the National Agricultural Development Plan. The government is encouraging citizens to grow their own food by giving them seeds and plants.
We also allocated $1m dollars to upgrade the nursery at Kew Farm in North Caicos. Just recently, we opened the agriculture office there.
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, it is not a quick fix but step by step, we are ensuring that you have access to a constant and nutritious supply of food. We encourage each of you to join the Growing TCI movement.
TOURISM
COVID-19 devastated the Tourism Industry and economy. Many of you were severely affected with job losses and reduced wages.
The tide is turning.
We made some smart decisions such as allowing vaccinated persons over the age of 16 to travel to the TCI. As a result, we are seeing a better than anticipated reopening of the Tourism Industry.
Over the last ninety days, there have been bumper arrivals – better than achieved pre-COVID 19.
I want to speak directly to the residents of Grand Turk. I know you continue to suffer from fall-out due to the absence of cruise ships.
I have listened to your cries.
I am happy to announce that we last met with Carnival on Tuesday, and are finalizing a Development Agreement with Carnival Corporation. We expect to sign this within the next few days which will facilitate a $25 million investment in the port and the return on cruise ships.
We are confident that cruise ships filled with visitors will be back in time for the high season 21/22.
We are not stopping there.
Government is investing heavily in the improvement of the Cruise Port and infrastructure in Grand Turk including:
Acquisition of a Property to be converted into a Vendors Market. $1.5m dollars has been allocated to refurbish and improve the property.
Additional properties will be acquired and developed to accommodate vendors who depend on the cruise industry for their livelihood.
2-million dollars will be spent to construct a floating dock for the Water Sports Operators.
We are providing up to $1 million in grants to eligible operators to help them prepare for the reopening of the Cruise Industry.
Operators to be assisted include:
Water Sports
Taxi/Tour
Trams
All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
Golf Cart Operators
Beach Vendors
Cabana Vendors
Pre- Pandemic Grand Turk Centre Vendors
Wedding Planners; and
Massage Therapists
In addition to the grant assistance, eligible residents of Grand Turk will have employment opportunities through:
The Covid Works Programme
Community Enhancement Programme with a budget of $65k and
The Infrastructure Improvement Account which has a budget of $4m dollars.
Tourism will continue to be the bedrock of the TCI economy for the foreseeable future.
We will continue to welcome guests if it is safe to do so. Our solemn duty is to first protect the people of these islands.
Government is committed to improving the entire visitor experience from entry to exit through our airports and seaports.
A new Tourism Regulatory Authority is being set up to elevate the standard of service across the TCI. We must create an experience that mirrors our branding as a luxury travel destination.
Funding has been approved for the establishment of a Tourism Destination Management Organization to drive tourism in the TCI and the process for recruitment of a specialist consultant to take this forward is in on-going.
ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE
All signs are pointing to an economy on the rebound.
GDP growth which was forecasted to be about 2.1 percent is now revised up to 3.5 to 4 percent.
The outstanding performance by the hotel, restaurant, and real estate sectors during the first 8 months of 2021 when compared to the same period in 2020 is driving the economic rebound.
Preliminary figures show, that during the first half of this year visitor arrivals increased by approximately 34.5 percent compared to the same period last year.
Merchandise imports into the Turks and Caicos Islands during the first half of this year totalled $215.6 million. This represents an increase of $30.6 million or 16.9% percent when compared to the same period in 2020.
The Recurrent Revenue of $165.4 million at August, exceeded budget by $39.5 million.
The major revenue drivers are:
Stamp duty on land transactions - $44m
Hotel and Restaurant Tax - $36m
Customs processing and Import duties - $42m
Also, Recurrent Expenditure of $100 million is $21.5 million below budget. This is mainly due to the late passage of the estimates. We expect this trajectory to change as the year progresses.
Our Net Operating Surplus is $61 million.
There is no need to borrow to support the budget at this time due to increased revenues and lower than expected expenditure.
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS
Our work to grow and diversify the economic landscape continues with new Foreign Direct Investments.
Development Agreements and MOU’s with a value of nearly $73 million have been approved.
Developments include:
Windsong – Provo
East Bay – South Caicos
Beach Enclave – Provo
Jobs will number 150 during the construction phase and 100 permanent jobs in the operational phase.
The MOUs are:
Aismare – $26m dollars in the redevelopment of the North Caicos airport
Marathon Ltd – a resort development project in Provo
MSMES
We are making a special effort to provide support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Grants totalling $160, 873 have been approved.
Amendments to MSME programme are being finalized and the following will be implemented over the next few weeks: Shorter application forms and a more streamlined process
Expanded priority areas
Greater technical support and program support for growing businesses
Greater marketing support for start ups
More opportunities to create linkages
In addition, over $1.25 million has been allocated to provide support through the Development Finance Institution (DFI), Partial Credit Guarantee Funding and a Credit Union.
Many MSMEs lack collateral to get loans to expand their businesses. COVID-19 has made this worse. They need access to capital and affordable banking, insurance, and financial services.
COST OF LIVING
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, I believe that no one in the TCI should ever go to bed hungry.
I know that the high cost of food, transportation, housing, electricity, childcare, health, and other necessities is a major cause of concern.
Help is on the way for the most vulnerable.
The Welfare Assistance Programme which currently gives $180 monthly is being revamped.
We will significantly increase the payout to needy families and individuals.
My administration fervently believes that we must give those who need help a hand up.
The book of Proverbs tells us that “whomever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord”.
E-GOVERNMENT
The concept of bringing E- Governance to the TCI is not new. My administration is taking concrete steps to make it a reality.
$2 million has been allocated and the Terms of Reference for a Chief Information Officer to drive the process are being finalized.
On the 29th of August, Cabinet approved the formation of an IT Steering Committee to provide oversight of all of Government’s IT systems and projects – including those of the Statutory Bodies.
To date, over 30 major IT projected have been earmarked for this financial year – including projects that will:
Streamline and speed up the leasing of Crown land
Bring our judicial system into the digital age by supporting the electronic filing and tracking of cases
Track and capture our workforce demographics, which will allow my government to ensure that Turks & Caicos Islanders are given first preference in the job market
Allow for the electronic filing and tracking of scholarship applications, and
Allow for the electronic filling of vehicle registrations and licenses, and driver’s license applications.
HEALTHY TCI
We are committed to creating a healthcare system that is affordable, accessible, well equipped, fully staffed and promotes healthy living
Regulations and standards are being drafted that will allow for quality assurance audits of all healthcare delivery systems in the TCI.
We must ensure that you get value for money and the best access to care.
Consultations have started on the creation of a framework for the development and implementation of an interconnected health system. The Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) has assigned technical experts to assist the Ministry in this process.
Cabinet has approved the merger of the National Insurance Board (NIB) and the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) collection and compliance functions. This will ensure greater efficiency and cost reductions. A project manager has been appointed to drive the process.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
A programme manager is to be hired to drive the creation of a Local Government Department. Each island will have its own local authority which will give the people a say in decision making. This administration believes in more community engagement.
SECURITY/SAFETY/JUSTICE
We are all concerned about the safety and security of our people, our visitors and property.
Our territorial waters are appealing to smugglers, poachers, illegal immigrants and human traffickers, so we must always be on alert.
We need a properly trained cadre of security officers.
To fulfil this goal, Government is acquiring property to develop a training academy for Customs, the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation, Immigration, Police and the TCI Regiment.
This week, a joint tender was issued for group accidental and travel insurance for our police officers, fire fighters, prison wardens and TCI Regiment.
The first recruits for the TCI Regiment - forty (40) Marine Reserves completed basic training in July 2021, supported by the United Kingdom Royal Marines.
The TCI Regiment will support the protection of the borders and humanitarian and disaster relief.
IMMIGRATION AND BORDER SERVICES
As we promised during the election campaign and to protect Turks and Caicos Islanders, we are reviewing the Immigration Ordinance.
We want to ensure that when people come to the TCI, they do not take jobs from Turks and Caicos Islanders. We will also ensure that a pathway to TCI Islander status is a stricter process and not too easily achieved.
To enforce immigration laws, intelligence driven Operation Compliance has commenced.
In partnership with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force(RTCIPF) and Department of Employment Services and Labour, inspections for violations are carried out at workplaces, traffic stops and at the Providenciales International Airport.
ALLOWANCES/CIVIL SERVANTS PENSIONS AND GRATUITY
We are reintroducing the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) Pension Scheme and Terminal Benefits package.
$2 million has been allocated as ‘seed’ financing to provide a long-term sustainable retirement plan for Public Servants and persons who serve on Statutory and other Bodies. This could also include members of the general public.
We hired a consultant who visited at the end of July, met with stakeholders and held public consultations. The next step is to draft the necessary policy and legislation.
ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION
As a Small Island State that is so reliant on tourism, we must keep our environment pristine. To this end, government has restricted the importation of vehicles older that ten (10) years and has instituted a ban on the importation of used tires. This comes into full effect on October 15th.
PUBLIC SECTOR INVESTMENT SECTOR
As we move towards expanding the economy, creating jobs, and improving the lives of Turks and Caicos Islanders, we are undertaking a massive public sector infrastructure investment programme.
Projects that will be tendered this week include:
Bellefield Landing Dredging
Reconstruction of Matthew Canal Salt Cay
Reconstruction of Lil Harkless Canal, South Caicos
Replacement Vehicles for the Public Works Department
Airside Walkway Canopy in Providenciales International Airport
We are not done yet!
More projects are being put to tender in the coming weeks. They include:
Consultancy Services for the National Health Insurance Plan
Purchase of Motor Vehicles for National Insurance
South Dock Port Redevelopment
Upgrading of DECR Laboratory
Repairs to DECR Office North Caicos
Bus Services for various schools
Improvements to the office building for Financial Services Sector
A new computer system for National Insurance Board
We encourage every islander who can, to participate in these projects.
We published the Annual Programme Plan on August 27, 2021. It includes all the potential procurement opportunities for TCIG as well as Statutory Bodies.
We encourage you to check the government website www.gov.tc to view all procurement opportunities.
Interested persons are asked to attend all pre-tender meetings to understand the requirements.
EDUCATION
My administration is investing heavily in the TCI future through education.
Our focus is on the little ones - we have to start them right and on those children with special needs who often fall through the cracks.
5500 tablets/laptops/iPads and MIFI devices have been provided to students.
Government is acquiring property to develop its hotel tourism school. Training of staff is critical to creating the high-end destination we are building.
The TCI Community College will be strengthened to deliver TVET programmes to assist residents in improving their skills and assisting with the development of small businesses throughout the TCI.
THE YOUTH AGENDA
For sustainable economic success, our young people must be given a chance to maximise their potential and productivity.
The Youth Policy was recently approved by Cabinet and ready for implementation.
A draft Early Childhood Policy and Early Childhood Educational Standards is to be submitted to Cabinet for approval and then for public consultation.
TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, from day one, I promised you accountability, transparency, effective leadership, and consistent communication.
I continue to believe that honest and open communication creates a positive and beneficial relationship between the government and people.
That is why we have been faithful to our promise to:
Hold regular press conferences/media interviews
Organize community updates and engagement through special activities and constituency days
Some ministries, departments and agencies are using multiple electronic formats, websites, and social media to interface with you.
It is my intention to report to you in this format on a regular basis and my next address is scheduled for the month of the November.
CONCLUSION
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders!
We are proud of our work and the many achievements over our first 200 days. We are just getting started.
We never forget that we work for you. We never forget that it is our solemn duty to:
Give our children the best possible education
Provide better and more affordable healthcare
Create an economy that works for all
Provide small businesses with the tools to grow and achieve success
Make the TCI the safest and best place to live and work
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, every day I am amazed at your courage, your endurance, your decency and kindness.
Let us continue to dream together, work together play together and pray together.
If we unite in purpose, strengthen our economy and put all our people back to work, this jewel that we are so privileged to call home will continue to shine bright.
Thank you!
May God bless each of you and our beloved and beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.
TCI ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS
The Turks & Caicos Islands economy is outperforming all expectations, fueled by significantly increased visitor arrivals, customs processing and import duties, and historic stamp duty revenues on land transactions.
The good news was revealed by Premier, Charles Washington Missick, during his national address last Thursday, which focused on his administration’s first 200 days in office. Premier Missick noted that the country’s GDP growth forecast will be revised upward and that the TCI was operating with a significant unexpected surplus.
" The economic performance of the economy has been stellar, all signs are pointing to an economy on the rebound. GDP growth which was forecasted to be about 2.1% is now revised up to 3.5% - 4% the outstanding performance by the hotel, restaurants and real estate sectors during the first eight months of 2021 when compared to the same period in 2020 is driving this economic rebound.
Preliminary figures shows that during the first half of this year, visitor arrivals increased by approximately 34.5% compared to the same period last year. Merchandise and imports into the Turks and Caicos Islands most, a lot of it building materials including the first half of this year totaled 215.6 million dollars this represents an increase of 30.6 million dollars or 16.9% when compared to the same period in 2020.
The recurrent Revenue of 165.4 million at August exceeded budget by a whopping 39.5 million, the major Revenue drivers are stand duty on land transactions be for to be forty-four million dollars the highest in history. Hotel restaurant tax 36 million dollars, Customs processing and import duties 42 million dollars. Also recurrent expenditure of 100 million is 21.5 below budget, this is mainly due to the late passage of the estimates and we expect this trajectory to change as the year progress, our net operating surplus ladies and gentlemen now stands at 61 Million dollars
Remember we went into this year projecting a 67% percent deficit, so there is no need to borrow to support the budget at this time, due to increased revenues and the lower than expected expenditure. Let me say though we have major infrastructure projects that we are scoping and we will not be banking money at the expense of developing our economy and developing our infrastructure you will hear more about that at a later time. " - The Honorable Premier Michael Missick
This news puts the country in a significantly better position than many expected, especially given the previous budget deficit projections; and it now has some residents saying that this means a second stimulus package under the current administration can be facilitated, as many are still feeling the crunch of the COVID pandemic despite the stellar economic numbers.
However, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development recently announced the government’s ‘COVID-19 Works Programme’, which the Premier also spoke to during his address.
The programme is meant to allow those who have had their jobs and livelihoods negatively impacted, as a result of the ongoing pandemic, to be to apply for a variety of government works contracts ranging in value from $1,500 to $70,000. Premier Missick says that US$5.3 million has been allocated for the programme and 44 contracts, at a total value of just under $313,000, have been awarded already.
Friday would have seen the closing of the tender process for several contracts worth $76,500; and this week will see a number of tender requests issued with a total value of around $446,000 for works across the islands in a range of categories. ‘The COVID-19 Works Programme’ will end in March 2022.
Premier Missick went on to talk about a range of other important national issues including the need for economic diversification and ongoing budget reform. The Premier also touched on Foreign Direct Investments, with project approvals at US$73 million dollars; government’s planned agreement of US$25 million dollars soon to be signed with Carnival Corporation; support for micro, small and medium size businesses (MSMEs); US$1 million dollars in grant money to reboot cruise businesses in Grand Turk and US$2 million dollars for the construction of a floating dock for water sports operators.
Healthcare, food security, public sector investment, public safety and justice, and immigration and border services were also among key topics covered by the Premier.
TCI UK Engagement
The TCI and UK continue ramp up efforts to improve their working relation, and strengthen the bound between the territory and Her Majesty’s Government.
The Governor’s Office says that in the past two weeks, the TCI has had significant engagement with the UK; with the Royal Navy conducting exercises off the country’s coast; Commando Engineers deploying with the local Regiment and RFA WAVE KNIGHT being moored in Grand Turk.
This engagement also included the Secretary General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA UK), Stephen Twigg, visiting Grand Turk and meeting leaders and elected representatives from across the islands.
Members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association from Westminster also visited to provide training to the newly elected members of the House of Assembly, so they can better discharge their legislative and oversight responsibilities.
Governors from the TCI’s sister Caribbean Overseas Territories of Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands and Montserrat also travelled to the TCI to attend a Caribbean Governor’s conference chaired by the Director of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s Overseas Territories Directorate (OTD) – with the Governor of Cayman joining the conference via video link.
Premier Misick, supported by the Deputy Governor and Attorney General, was also able to meet the various territory leaders over lunch.
OTD Director, Paul Candler, and Deputy Director, Adam Pile, were in TCI not only to host this conference but also to spend time understanding the country. The British Airways flight they arrived on included the fifth batch of vaccines from the UK Government.
They were briefed in detail on national security, policing and crown land. Visits were made to the Maritime Police, Radar Station, the port, the Detention Centre, the hospital, national laboratory and Her Majesty’s Prison (HMP) on Grand Turk.
The contingent toured TCI, seeing the beauty of the islands’ coastline from air, land and sea, along with the boom in the TCI’s top end construction sector through to the unregulated settlements of Dockyard. Environmental officers also took them out on patrol so they could understand local maritime protection.
Director Candler and Deputy Pile met with the Premier and his Cabinet; the Deputy Governor and Attorney General, and had lunch with the Leader of the Opposition and the Opposition’s Appointed Member.
They spent time with finance and health officials; the DDME, including the UK military liaison officer; crucially spending with a group representing the TCI youth and also meeting a wide range of stakeholders from all facets of TCI society including public and private sector, NGO’s and the local media.
The UK contingent also had the opportunity to have dinner with the Premier and Deputy Premier to build a constructive relationship with the new Government and its leadership.
Newly appointed to his role, this was Mr Candler’s first visit to an inhabited overseas Territory and it was not coincidental he chose TCI first.
The success that TCI has enjoyed over the last 18 months, weathering the initial period of the pandemic from a health perspective, rolling out the vaccines to deliver a vaccination rate of over 70%, the significant rebound of the economy and the fact it may emerge from the pandemic stronger than it entered, suggests that much is going well in TCI and there are underpinning fundamentals that TCI has worked hard to embed, over the last decade, that are worth learning from in the UK Government’s relationships with other Overseas Territories. Mr. Candler said that the optimism for the future was ‘palpable and real’.
Governor Dakin, who is now entering his third year as Governor, says that it was striking to him that in almost every conversation, with every sector of society and community, and every stakeholder in its future, the importance around issues of ‘identity’, expressed from very different perspectives, and every different perspective, were raised by those speaking to the UK visitors.
The Governor noted that the issue impacts on opportunities linked to wealth creation, employment, health, education, child safe-guarding, policing, security, long term stability and much else.
He says that over the last week this well-founded ‘hope’ for the future prosperity, yet also this ‘fear’ around who is - and who is not - part of the future TCI nation - seems to him to mark TCI out as an Overseas Territory different from the rest.
Governor Dakin went on to say that the positive point, on the latter, was how respectful to different positions each person who raised this had been, and he believes the visitors would have been struck by the constructive tone of the debate they heard, most particularly from the younger generation that they met.
No COVID Cases at Ona Glinton
Wrapping up local news, and in an update from a report we carried on Thursday 23 September. All students of the Ona Glinton Primary School, that were affected by last week’s COVID scare, are now back in their classrooms and proceeding with face-to-face learning.
In a message sent to parents over the weekend, the school emphasized the fact that no COVID-19 cases had been identified amongst the school community and that the school had been deep cleaned and ready for a return to in-person learning.
The situation had caused considerable public concern last Wednesday, when face-to-face learning had been suspended temporarily and student reverted to virtually for one day.
This brings us to the end of this segment of the newscast. Up next is news from the region.
Public Consultation On Code of Conduct
The National Security Secretariat has opened public consultations on a proposed voluntary ‘Private Security Code of Conduct’ for the security industry in the TCI. The consultation, which commenced on Thursday 23 September, is expected to run for two weeks up to Thursday 7 October.
The Secretariat says that it would like feedback from the public, relevant stakeholders and interested persons. They also stated that the proposed ‘Code of Conduct’ is in keeping with regional best practices and international standards in order to professionalize the industry.
Several proponents of the code have said that it is long overdue, as the security industry in the TCI is one of the most unregulated with limited professional standards and requirements.
The public is being asked to review the ‘Code of Conduct’ along with an accompanying document titled ‘Employment Screening Criteria and Training Criteria’. Both documents can be accessed via the government’s website: www.gov.tc. The Secretariat says that all comments or queries should be submitted in writing to nationalsecurity@gov.tc.
Ports Director Appointed to Executive Committee of Regional Ports Organization
TCI’s very own Director of Ports, Delton Jones, has been appointed Vice Chairman of the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC) for the period 2021 to 2023.
Chairman of the TCI Ports Authority, Urban Francis, says he was elated upon receiving the news of Director Jones’ appointment, as this appointment is a tribute the TCI Ports Authority and is a source of pride for the Authority, and indeed the TCI.
The appointment of Jones’ to the regional executive body comes on the heals of the TCI winning the Nova Port cup as best performing PMAC member port during the recent Annual General Meeting. Chairman Francis say that this is a pleasing development, which should motivate staff and is great given the Authority’s plans for development of TCI ports.
Director Jones noted that the appointment is a great opportunity to serve on the executive committee to promote the development of regional ports and awareness of their importance to economic development and resilience of the region.
Jones also says that he hopes to be able to showcase the exciting work plans of the Ports Authority, and that he looks forward to working effectively as part of the executive committee to champion the ideals of PMAC.
The TCI Ports Authority recently hosted the 24th Annual General meeting of the PMAC.
Caribbean countries continue to report deaths from COVID
Several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries reported deaths and new positive cases linked to the coronavirus (COVID-19) over the past24 hours, with Trinidad and Tobago also indicating that there had been more cases of the Delta variant of the virus.
Authorities in the Dutch-speaking CARICOM country reported that 10 people have died from COVID-19 and that there had also been 153 new positive cases over the past 24 hours.
In total, Suriname has had a number of 855 deaths and 40,061 infections since March 2020, while 26,868 people have recovered after being infected with the virus.
There are 98 people in the various hospitals, 18 of whom are in the Intensive Care units. 47 people are in isolation.
In Guyana, eight more people have died from the virus taking the country’s death toll to 762. The authorities said that one of those who died was fully vaccinated; while the others were unvaccinated.
The latest fatalities also mean that for the month of September, 137 persons have died, the highest number of deaths recorded in a single month since March last year.
The Ministry of Health in a statement on Sunday night said that all of the patients died while receiving medical care at various facilities.
Meanwhile, a total of 241 new COVID cases were recorded from 1,724 tests, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 31, 148.
There are 31 patients in the COVID-19 ICU at the Infectious Diseases Hospital; 166 patients are in institutional isolation and 3,919 patients are in home isolation. To date, 26,270 people have recovered from the virus.
Trinidad and Tobago confirmed six more cases of the Delta variant of the virus, as the country reported 10 more deaths and 127 new infections over the past 24 hours.
The Ministry of Health said that so far, Trinidad and Tobago has detected 17 cases of the Delta variant and that one of the new cases is an unvaccinated minor who travelled to the country from New York. The other five cases have no recent history of travel.
It said all patients have been placed in isolation until the enhanced discharge criteria for people with
COVID-19 variants of concern is achieved and that contact tracing, testing and quarantining of contacts have also been initiated.
The World Health Organization confirmed that the Delta variant has been detected in 185 countries.
The ministry said that the 10 new deaths pushed the death toll since March last year to 1, 457 with 49, 947 positive cases. There are 4, 316 active cases with 44, 176 persons having recovered from the virus.
There are 292 patients in hospitals, 156 in state sanctioned facilities and 3, 827 in home isolation.
In St. Lucia, one person died and that there have been 87 new cases of COVID-19.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness in its Sunday bulletin said that the new positive cases were from 353 samples collected between September 24 and 25. It said the new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in- country to date to 11,231.
The ministry said the one death has increased the total to 140. It said that a 53 year old female from the Laborie district, south of here.
“Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 72 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. This brings the number of active cases in-country to 2170. Currently, one active case is critical while 14 others are severely ill at the Respiratory Hospital,” the ministry added.
Barbados also recorded deaths in the past 24 hours due to the virus.
The authorities said 86 females and 89 males are the latest COVID-19 cases and the authorities said of the 175 new cases, 43 persons are under the age of 18, and 132 are 18 years and older.
There are 1,037 patients in isolation.
Three persons passed away on Saturday. They were all females, aged 50, 66, and 84, who had comorbidities and were unvaccinated.
Barbados has recorded 7,576 confirmed cases (3,736 males and 3,840 females) of the viral illness, and 67 deaths.
Source - CMC
Australia PM undecided on attending crucial climate summit
Australia's prime minister has signalled he may not attend the UN's landmark climate conference in November as his government faces continued criticism of its poor climate record.
In an interview, Scott Morrison said he had "not made any final decisions" on attending, suggesting it was a burden.
"It's another trip overseas... and I've spent a lot of time in quarantine," he told the West Australian newspaper.
The COP26 summit will be the biggest global climate crisis talks in years.
It is hoped that the 12-day meeting between world leaders in Glasgow, Scotland will produce the next emissions standards to slow global warming and keep temperature rise below 1.5C.
But Mr Morrison said he would consider other priorities, including the reopening of Australia's borders.
"I have to focus on things here and with Covid. Australia will be opening up around that time. There will be a lot of issues to manage and I have to manage those competing demands," he told the newspaper.
Australia - one of the world's top exporters of coal and gas - is one of 200 countries expected to present their updated 2030 emissions cuts at the meet.
Mr Morrison has said he wishes Australia to achieve net zero emissions "as soon as possible", but has not outlined any measures to do so.
His government has resisted committing to net zero by 2050 - a goal already pledged by the US, the UK and many other developed nations.
Australia has consistently been criticised for its slow climate progress and heavy reliance on coal-fired power - which makes it the most carbon polluting nation in the world per capita.
Canberra is also staunchly protective of its fossil fuel industry - and has pledged to continue mining and trading dirty fuels as long as there is demand in Asia.
In July, a UN report ranked it last out of 170 member nations for its response to climate change.
And despite Australia's claims to the contrary, the UN has previously said the nation is not on track to reach its modest Paris Agreement targets of a 26-28% cut on 2005 levels by 2030.
'Not a no-show'
Mr Morrison, who became leader in 2018, has consistently defended Australia's climate policies as adequate.
The nation experienced a catastrophic fire season in its 2019-2020 summer - during which Mr Morrison was criticised for downplaying the role of climate change and travelling to Hawaii for a family holiday during the peak of the crisis.
He has made several trips abroad this year, including to the G7 summit hosted by the UK in June, and in recent days to Washington for the Quad meeting with the leaders of the US, India and Japan.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne said on Monday that if Mr Morrison did not attend there would still be senior level representation at the meeting.
"It's not a no-show at the conference. Australia will be strongly represented at the conference no matter by which senior Australian representative and our commitment is very clear," she told the ABC.
Source - BBC
Suriname Football club booted from CONCACAF, owner suspended for three years
Suriname’s Inter Moengotapoe has been disqualified and removed from this year’s CONCACAF League, while the club’s owner and Suriname’s Vice President, Ronnie Brunswijk, has been banned for three years from participating in any capacity in CONCACAF competitions.
CONCACAF made the announcement following a probe into the circumstances surrounding a video that showed Brunswijk allegedly passing out money to Olimpia players and staff in the changing room, after his team’s 6-0 home loss to the Honduran side in a CONCACAF League match on September 21.
Olimpia has also been suspended from the CONCACAF League.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the regional governing body for football said its Disciplinary Committee had “fully investigated the circumstances surrounding the integrity concerns” raised by the video which had been circulating on social media.
“Having assessed the actions evidenced in the video and considered written statements provided by both clubs, the Committee has determined that serious breaches of integrity rules occurred after the match,” it stated.
“As a consequence of these rule breaches, both clubs have been disqualified and removed from this year’s CONCACAF League with immediate effect. Additionally, the Committee has ruled that Mr Ronnie Brunswijk is banned for three years from participating in any capacity in CONCACAF competitions.”
Brunswijk, 60, had played in the match against Olimpia at Franklin Essed Stadium, becoming the oldest player to play in an international club competition.
He was on the field for 54 minutes and started in attack alongside his son Damian Brunswijk, who played for 29 minutes before being replaced.
Source - CMC
Eminem launching Mom's Spaghetti restaurant in Detroit
Eminem is serving up more than just bars with his next venture. He's serving mom's spaghetti, literally.
The Detroit rapper has teamed up with Union Joints restaurant group to launch a brand-new restaurant in his hometown, called Mom's Spaghetti.
As fans know, the moniker comes from the famous line in Eminem's 2002 hit "Lose Yourself," where he raps, "His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy/ There's vomit on his sweater already, mom's spaghetti."
A 30-second trailer promoting the new food joint starts off with a shot of the Detroit skyline, where Slim Shady appears and spits out a Chinese takeout container full of spaghetti. The rest of the clip reveals the menu, which includes, of course, spaghetti, with or without meatballs, and a s'ghetti sandwich.
This isn't the first time Eminem has brought his lyrics to life. He hosted a pop-up in 2017 and also donated the delicacy to front-line workers during the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020.
The Mom's Spaghetti grand opening will be held on Wednesday, September 29 at 5 p.m. at 2131 Woodward Ave. in Detroit. No word on whether Eminem will be in attendance.
Source - ABC