WIPA not pressuring players to take COVID-19 vaccine; keeping eye on security concerns ahead of Pakistan tour
The West Indies Players Association (WIPA) will neither be insisting on nor discouraging members from taking the COVID-19 vaccine, even as Cricket West Indies (CWI) continues to get the region’s youth, women’s and men’s players vaccinated. President and CEO Wavell Hinds said each member should make their individual decision on the matter.
“Each human being is made up different. I don’t know if persons have comorbidities and other [things] that would affect them, so they would have to speak to the medical experts, their physicians and their personal general practitioners and see where it goes and if it is healthy and good for them to take, I’m sure that they will speak to their doctor,” he told Television Jamaica. “But I’m not a medical doctor so I don’t think it is my duty to tell somebody what they should do or shouldn’t do.”
Hinds also spoke about possible security concerns over the West Indies tour of Pakistan in December. New Zealand abandoned its tour to the south Asian country earlier this month, citing security concerns, and England withdrew last week from sending their men’s and women’s teams there for similar reasons. Hinds said WIPA is gathering information to help protect its members who have concerns.
“What we have done so far is to reach out to our counterparts in New Zealand and in England – the New Zealand Cricket Association and the Professional Cricket Association in England – and I reached out as well to some of my colleagues that sit on the FICA Board with me,” he said, adding a security report from Pakistan will also be needed. Last week, CWI chief executive officer Johnny Grave said that CWI is planning to fulfil its tour commitments with all countries, including Pakistan.
The West Indies are scheduled to play three ODIs and three T20Is in Pakistan.
Source - CMC
Victory! For the Teacher FC Team
The TCIFAA Football federation held 3 major games over the last couple days in the Providenciales primer league 2021-2022
Over the weekend on September 25th the Teachers FC took on SWAS Sharks FC at the TCIFA National Academy compound. A total of 150 spectators were in attendance for the game cheering the two teams on as they vied on the field for victory.
The first Goal of the game went to the Sharks FC club scored by Brian Gregg at just 6 minutes into the game.
The second goal of the game of was scored by Hayden Williams a member of the teachers FC team at the 25-minute mark, bringing the game to a draw. Which was broken by his teammate Emerson Monestine at the 42-minute mark. Brian Gregg of the Sharks FC scored a last minute shot the 45-minute mark right before halftime.
“Nicolas Lewin” scored at the 54-minute mark putting the Teacher FC in the lead. He was then followed by his teammate Emerson Monestine who scored at the 61-minute mark giving the Teachers FC a 2 point lead.
Kevern De Bellot of the Sharks FC scored at the 65-minute and the 74-minute mark closing the gap and bringing the two teams to a draw for the second time of the game.
Jeff Davilmar of the teachers FC placed the final goal of the game, scoring at the 80-minute mark winning the game for the Teachers FC at 5-4.
COVID-19 Community Testing
The Ministry of Health is providing the following schedule for COVID-19 community testing. This exercise will continue to be operated on a “first-come-first-served” basis. The public is reminded to maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet and to wear a face covering/mask and to bring any form of Identification and a pen.
Grand Turk: Every Tuesday between 2pm-4pm at the Gazebo (Pond Street)
South Caicos: Every Tuesday between 9am-12pm at the Primary Healthcare
Clinic
North & Middle Caicos: Every Monday between 9am-12pm at the Kew Clinic
Every Thursday between 9am-12pm at the Bottle Creek Clinic
Every Monday & Thursday between 9am-12pm at the
Middle Caicos Clinic
Providenciales: Every Tuesday and Thursday between 9am-12pm at the National Stadium, Venetian Road
The Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine will also be available at the locations above in Providenciales.
The public should be reminded of the COVID-19 Health Protocols:
1.Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
2.Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
3.Maintain social distancing of 6 feet between persons
4.Wear face coverings in public settings (covering both your nose and mouth)
5.Avoid mass gatherings or crowds
6.Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or use disposable tissues
7.Comply with public health measures
8.Stay home where possible
9.If you have symptoms of Covid-19 which include; cough, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath, fever, diarrhea, loss of sense of taste or smell-please stay home and contact the Health Hotlines on 232 9444 or 333 0911
10.Do not visit health care facilities if you have symptoms or signs of Covid-19, call the Health Hotlines for guidance unless your symptoms are severe
11.If you are under quarantine by the Public Health Team, please remain at home and comply with the guidance provided to you.
12.If you are contacted by the Public Health Team as a part of contact tracing activities, please provide all of the information requested to assist them in their investigations
13.Stay informed with the latest information from the Ministry of Health by visiting our website on https://www.gov.tc/moh/coronavirus/
14.Consult with your healthcare provider regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and register online;
R. Kelly has been convicted on all counts in sex crimes trial
A federal jury has found singer R. Kelly guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking involving interactions with six women, among them the late singer Aaliyah, who died in a plane crash in 2001.
The verdict came in Monday afternoon after two days of deliberations following a six-week trial in Brooklyn federal court. Kelly's face was concealed by a mask as the verdict was read, making it difficult to see what reaction he may have had.
Kelly, 54, whose birth name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, had pleaded not guilty to all nine counts he faced and told a Brooklyn judge that he would not testify. Now, the singer could face up to 20 years in prison.
Kelly previously avoided prison in 2008 when he was acquitted on 14 counts in a highly publicized child pornography case. However, this time around, the jury believed Kelly was the ringleader of a criminal enterprise that bolstered his music, his image and his sexual gratification by recruiting women and girls for sex, holding them against their will and threatening them if they misbehaved.A federal jury has found singer R. Kelly guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking involving interactions with six women, among them the late singer Aaliyah, who died in a plane crash in 2001.
The verdict came in Monday afternoon after two days of deliberations following a six-week trial in Brooklyn federal court. Kelly's face was concealed by a mask as the verdict was read, making it difficult to see what reaction he may have had.
Kelly, 54, whose birth name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, had pleaded not guilty to all nine counts he faced and told a Brooklyn judge that he would not testify. Now, the singer could face up to 20 years in prison.
Kelly previously avoided prison in 2008 when he was acquitted on 14 counts in a highly publicized child pornography case. However, this time around, the jury believed Kelly was the ringleader of a criminal enterprise that bolstered his music, his image and his sexual gratification by recruiting women and girls for sex, holding them against their will and threatening them if they misbehaved.
Source - ABC
PUBLIC FORECAST FOR THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT MONDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2021
GENERAL SITUATION: THE REMNANTS OF A FRONTAL TROUGH ACROSS THE CENTRAL BAHAMAS WILL CONTINUE TO ENHANCE CONVECTIVE ACTIVITY OVER THE NORTHWEST AND CENTRAL BAHAMAS AS IT CONTINUES TO WEAKEN AND DISSIPATE.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: BOATERS IN THE NORTHWEST AND CENTRAL BAHAMAS SHOULD REMAIN VIGILANT DUE TO THE RISK OF POSSIBLE WATERSPOUT ACTIVITY.
FOR ALL AREAS
WEATHER: PARTLY SUNNY, HOT AND HUMID WITH A FEW ISOLATED SHOWERS MAINLY ACROSS THE CENTRAL BAHAMAS, BECOMING VARIABLY CLOUDY AND WARM WITH A FEW ISOLATED SHOWERS OR THUNDERSTORMS TONIGHT.
ADVISORY: SMALL CRAFT SHOULD BE ALERT FOR GUSTY WINDS AND HIGHER SEAS IN OR NEAR SHOWERS OR THUNDERSTORMS
WINDS: NORTHEASTERLY AT 15 KNOTS IN THE NORTHWEST BAHAMAS AND 10 KNOTS OR LESS IN THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS FALLING LIGHT AND VARIABLE AT TIMES
SEAS: 3 TO 5 FEET IN THE NORTHWEST BAHAMAS AND 1 TO 3 FEET IN THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS
DAYTIME HIGH TEMP: 90°F 32°C OVERNIGHT LOW TEMP: 72°F 22°C SUN
SUNSET: 6:59 PM SUNRISE: 7:01 AM TUE
MOON
MOONSET: 12:46 PM MOONRISE: 11:29 PM
TIDES
HIGH TIDE: 12:52 PM LOW TIDE: 7:23 PM
HIGH TIDE: 1:10 AM TUE LOW TIDE: 7:14 AM TUE
OUTLOOK FOR TOMORROW: MULTI LAYERED TROUGHING MAINLY OVER THE CENTRAL BAHAMAS IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE TO TRIGGER CONVECTIVE ACTIVITY OVER THE ISLANDS OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: PLEASE SEE THE LATEST NEWS ITEM ON HURRICANE SAM, LOCATED SEVERAL HUNDRED MILES EAST OF THE LESSER ANTILLES. ELSEWHERE:
1) A SURFACE TROUGH ASSOCIATED WITH THE REMNANTS OF PETER, LOCATED SEVERAL HUNDRED MILES EAST SOUTHEAST OF BERMUDA HAS A MEDIUM, OR 50 PERCENT CHANCE OF TROPICAL CYCLONE FORMATION THROUGH THE NEXT FIVE (5) DAYS, AS THE SYSTEM MIGRATES NORTHEASTWARDS.
2) A TROPICAL WAVE IS MOVING OFFSHORE THE WEST COAST OF AFRICA AND
INTO THE FAR EASTERN TROPICAL ATLANTIC. THIS SYSTEM HAS A HIGH, OR 80 PERCENT CHANCE OF TROPICAL CYCLONE FORMATION THROUGH THE NEXT FIVE (5) DAYS.
3) DISORGANIZED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH A BROAD AREA OF LOW PRESSURE LOCATED SEVERAL HUNDRED MILES SOUTHWEST OF THE CABO VERDE ISLANDS HAS A HIGH, OR 80 PERCENT CHANCE OF TROPICAL CYCLONE FORMATION THROUGH THE NEXT FIVE (5) DAYS, AS THE SYSTEM MOVES WESTWARDS ACROSS THE TROPICAL ATLANTIC.
New Bahamas government says tourism is everyone’s business
The newly appointed Tourism Minister, Chester Cooper, Monday said he is “committed to creating jobs and opportunities for all Bahamians” as the country joined the global community in observing the 41st annual World Tourism Day.
In a message marking the occasion, Cooper, who was sworn in last week as a minister following the general election, said like many Caribbean destinations, tourism is the heartbeat of The Bahamas and “as we say, it is everyone’s business.
“Our beaches are breath-taking, and the water is so clear you can see it from space, but that is not what defines us. Rather, it is every individual person who shapes the Bahamas experience and stands to benefit from tourism’s success. I am committed to creating jobs and opportunities for all Bahamians and to help our great nation heal,” Cooper said.
He said after a year and a half of facing an unprecedented global pandemic, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation remains steadfast in its efforts to provide opportunities and resources to Bahamians across every island and cay to reap the benefits of tourism and is committed to achieving a bright future for The Bahamas and the Caribbean region.
“As international travel restrictions begin to ease, spurred by an increase in vaccine accessibility, The Bahamas is well positioned for continued recovery,” Cooper said, adding that a rise in scheduled airlift combined with the return of the cruise industry is contributing to a positive increase in visitor numbers, leading to nearly 500,000 visitors over the first six months of the year.
“While we have faced an uphill battle during these unprecedented times, we must stay focused and optimistic as the world begins to re-open.
Cooper, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, said he was joining with leaders throughout the Caribbean to elevate the importance of social inclusion, sustainability and smart destinations and businesses.
“Our beautiful country, and our beloved Caribbean region, will prosper again and continue to progress, as in the words of the motto of The Bahamas: Forward, Upward, Onward, Together,” he added.
World Tourism Day is being observed under the theme “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”.
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.