Brandy Garland-Williams Appointed Director of Services within TCI Border Force
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Brandy Garland-Williams as the Director of Services in the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force within the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services.
Garland-Williams holds a Bachelor of Laws Honours with Criminology from the University of Law, which she completed in September 2025 and an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies from the Bahamas Institute of Business and Technology, obtained in 2018. She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Immigration Law at the University of Law.
Garland-Williams joined the Public Service as an Assistant Customs Officer in 2020 and was promoted to Customs Officer in 2021. In 2023, she was elevated to Senior Officer and subsequently promoted in 2024. Throughout her tenure, she has gained specialized expertise in border security, intelligence operations and enforcement coordination, supported by numerous professional certifications including Silver Commander Certification and advanced analytical training from the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts.
In her new capacity as Director of Services, Mrs. Garland-Williams will oversee all critical services provided by the Border Force, including the issuance and management of visas, residence permits and extensions of visits. She is also responsible for managing the Entry Processing Unit, which facilitates the processing of cargo entering the Turks and Caicos Islands via official entry processing systems. Additionally, her remit includes the management of the two detention facilities, ensuring the highest standards of security and operational oversight.
Reflecting on her appointment, Mrs. Garland-Williams shared, “I am deeply honoured to have the privilege of serving my country in this new capacity and for the opportunity to continue contributing to the protection and national security advancement of the Turks and Caicos Islands. My professional journey truly reflects the power of prayer, hard work, dedication, faith and continuous growth. It is my hope that my professional and educational journey can serve as an inspiration to young adults. Remain committed to pursuing your purpose with integrity, prayer, faith and dedication and you will continue to achieve excellence in whatever path you choose. As Myles Munroe once said, ‘The greatest tragedy in life is not death, but a life without purpose.’ I am also guided by the words of Book of Mark 11:24, which says, ‘Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them and you will have them.’”
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams in congratulatory remarks said, "I extend sincere congratulations to Mrs. Brandy Garland-Williams on her appointment as Director of Services within the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force in the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services. We are pleased to welcome her to this distinguished role and wish her every success as she embarks upon this new chapter in contributing to the critical work of the TCI Border Force.”
Congratulations on your well-deserved promotion, Mrs. Garland-Williams!
Gov’t to weigh movement restrictions as fuel costs surge – Vaz
KINGSTON, JAMAICA (JAMAICA GLEANER) – The Government is exploring options to get Jamaicans to conserve fuel amid rising global prices, with Energy and Transport Minister Daryl Vaz signalling that COVID-19-style movement restrictions could be considered.
No decision has been made, and the matter is to go before Cabinet for discussion.
The move comes as Vaz indicated that Petrojam has absorbed losses of $11.8 billion over the past four weeks while cushioning the impact of higher oil prices driven by the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Vaz described the losses as “unaffordable and unsustainable,” warning that prices will continue to rise for as long as the conflict persists.
He urged Jamaicans to begin conserving fuel immediately.
“We are going to see increases as long as this war continues. We will continue to do what we can, but it is important that you understand that you need to conserve starting today,” he said.
“The Government is going to have to look at policies to limit movement, especially transportation. I don’t know if we can go back to a COVID-19 hybrid version of working from home, but something has to happen,” he added.
“The level of traffic that I’m seeing on the road doesn’t show that anybody realises that there is a war and that fuel prices will continue to go up.”
Vaz noted that oil prices have climbed from about US$70 per barrel before the conflict to an average of US$100, reflecting volatility in the global market.
He indicated that between March 12 and April 8, transport fuel prices increased by an average of $49.20 per litre.
He said of that amount, only $18 was passed on to consumers under the Government’s pricing cap at Petrojam, which limits adjustments to $4.50 per litre on increases or decreases.
A revision of the $4.50 cap has been proposed to Cabinet as part of a new tiered pricing mechanism aimed at reducing losses while maintaining consumer protection.
“While the current mechanism has been effective in cushioning consumers, it has resulted in significant financial losses by Petrojam,” Vaz said, citing the $11.8 billion.
“That is, in fact, two-thirds of this budget year’s revenue measures. You have to understand the magnitude of the impact of the war on Jamaica. This level of support is not sustainable indefinitely, especially in a prolonged high-price environment.”
He said the proposed system would likely introduce multiple pricing tiers to allow greater flexibility in responding to global market shifts.
“It means that we will probably have three different tiers of caps that reflect what is happening in the market. And if prices are changing weekly, it means we can adjust on a weekly basis,” he added.
“Let me be blatantly, truthfully upfront, in your face, the Government of Jamaica cannot stomach a $11.8 billion with all of what we have to do and the contending priorities. And anybody who tell you any different, I’m sure they will after this press conference, rubbish. No government, in a situation like this, can sustain that,” Vaz added as he urged businesses and ordinary citizens to conserve fuel.
Added Vaz: "My words to you Jamaica definitively is you are going to see increases as long as this (war) continues. We will do what we can do but it is important that you do what you need to do to understand that you need to conserve."
Multi-Agency Exercise Conducted on Providenciales for Informal Settlements
The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in coordination with the Planning Department and key partner agencies, conducted a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Block and Parcel 60802/49 and 60802/65, located in the Caicos Lodge area.
The operation was led by the Planning Department, with coordination by the ISU and support from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the TCI Border Force, Pelican Energy TCI, and DevCon Power Supply. All agencies worked collaboratively to ensure the exercise was carried out in a safe, orderly, and controlled manner.
The enforcement action followed a structured and lawful process in accordance with the Physical Planning framework of the Turks and Caicos Islands. A total of fifty (50) unauthorized structures were removed during the exercise.
Section 45 Enforcement Notices were first issued on the affected parcels on December 11 2024, identifying unauthorized structures in illegal occupation. This was followed by the issuance of Warning Notices on March 26 2026, which clearly advised occupants that they were in breach of planning and land use regulations and provided a 14-day period to remove the structures voluntarily. Despite these notices and the time afforded for compliance, the unauthorized structures remained in place.
The Government wishes to emphasize that the structures removed were unauthorized developments, constructed without the required planning approvals and in breach of established building and land use regulations.
Planning regulations exist to ensure that all developments meet minimum standards for safety and structural integrity. Unauthorized settlements, regardless of appearance, often lack these safeguards and can pose serious risks to occupants and the wider community.
The enforcement of these regulations is therefore not only a legal obligation, but a necessary measure to protect lives, property, and public health.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Government remains fully aware of the housing challenges currently facing the country. However, unlawful development cannot be allowed to proliferate in a manner that compromises safety, undermines planning systems, and infringes on property rights.
All persons undertaking construction or occupation of land must do so in accordance with the law, including obtaining the necessary planning approvals.
The Government will continue to work collaboratively across agencies to:
- Uphold planning and development regulations
- Protect private and public lands
- Prevent the expansion of unsafe and informal settlements
- Advance long-term solutions for sustainable community development
This exercise represents part of an ongoing commitment to ensuring that development within the Turks and Caicos Islands is lawful, safe, and aligned with national standards.
Marzena Hinson Appointed Head of Secretariat in Ministry of Finance, Investment & Trade
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Marzena Hinson as Head of Secretariat within the Ministry of Finance, Investment and Trade.
Ms. Hinson holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Charisma University and a Master of Public Administration from Florida International University’s Hybrid Executive MPA Programme, which she completed as a recipient of the Turks and Caicos Islands Scholarship Programme.
With a career spanning over a decade, Ms. Hinson has developed a diverse professional portfolio across the hospitality, community service, and financial sectors, including nine years in financial services. During her tenure, she played a vital role in supporting the MSME Programme, working closely with local entrepreneurs to secure funding, enhance technical capacity and foster sustainable economic growth across the islands.
Beyond her practical experience, Ms. Hinson is a member of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA). She holds certifications in Financial Accounting and Capital Markets from the University of Cambridge and Social and Behavioural Human Research from the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI). Her professional portfolio is further supported by training in risk management, anti-money laundering, information security and conflict resolution.
Reflecting on her appointment, Ms. Hinson shared, “I am pleased to be appointed to the role of Head of Secretariat within the Ministry of Finance, Investment and Trade. I remain committed to the continued growth and advancement of the Turks and Caicos Islands, guided by the principle that progress is built through quiet excellence, shared responsibility and a steadfast dedication to duty.”
In congratulatory remarks, Her Excellency Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service of the Turks and Caicos Islands, welcomed the appointment, stating, “I extend my sincere congratulations to Ms. Hinson on her appointment as Head of Secretariat. Her years of service supporting the MSME sector have demonstrated a firm commitment to the economic development of these islands. We are confident that the technical expertise and institutional knowledge she gained during her time at Invest TCI will translate effectively into this senior role, ensuring the Ministry’s objectives are met with precision and diligent oversight.”
Congratulations, Ms Hinson, on your well-deserved appointment!
CHALMERS MISICK JR. APPOINTED DEPUTY DIRECTOR MECHANICAL SERVICES
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Chalmers Misick Jr. as the Deputy Director of Mechanical Services within the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure.
Mr. Misick brings over 20 years of experience in the automotive and mechanical services industry to his new role. He most recently served as Sales and Fleet Manager at Caicos Oil, where he oversaw fleet procurement, inventory and mechanical servicing.
His career includes significant leadership roles, where he developed preventive maintenance programmes and managed government vehicle fleets. Mr. Misick also gained valuable technical experience as a Lead Pump Station Operator with the South Florida Water Management District and as a Diesel Mechanic with Fortis TCI.
Mr. Misick holds a Diploma in Automotive Technology from the New England Institute of Technology. His professional development includes various certifications in diesel engines, power generation and mechanical systems, with specialised training from the Wartsila Land and Sea Academy, the Crane Inspection and Certification Bureau and the National Center for Construction Education and Research.
Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Misick shared, “I am honoured to accept this appointment and grateful for the opportunity to serve. I look forward to contributing my experience in fleet management, mechanical operations and leadership to support the continued development and efficiency of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ infrastructure.”
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams in congratulatory remarks said, “Congratulations are extended to Mr. Chalmers Misick Jr. on his appointment as the Deputy Director of Mechanical Services within the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure. We warmly welcome him to this senior position and are confident that his technical background, leadership in fleet management and broad industry experience will be valuable assets as the Ministry continues to strengthen its mechanical services and infrastructure support.”
Congratulations your well-deserved appointment, Mr. Misick.
Public Accounts Committee Hosts 2 Day Workshop in Grand Turk
By: Danae Dennie - News Reporter RTC
--- The TCI’s Public Accounts Committee recently held a 2 day accountability workshop in Grand Turk on April 13 to the 14th.
We spoke with the Leader of the Opposition Hon. Edwin Astwood about the significance of the workshop.
We also heard from Auditor General Mr. Khalid Hamid on his thoughts on the workshop and its benefits.
Associate Professor Henry Midgley also gave remarks
During the workshop there were members of parliament present, permanent secretaries, and other accounting officials. We got to hear some of their thoughts on the effectiveness of the workshop.
Many attendees expressed hopes for this workshop to be done at least once a year to assist with the budget cycle.
Please see full audio version of story below:
3 DAY PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
GENERAL SITUATION: A strong high-pressure system north of the region interacting with a nearby surface trough is producing fresh to strong northeast winds across the Turks and Caicos Islands. As the trough drifts west toward the islands today, it will increase the likelihood of showers tonight.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: A mix of sun and clouds with a low (20 to 30 percent) chance of showers and an isolated thunderstorm. Mostly fair with isolated showers possible tonight.
WINDS: Northeasterly at 15 to 20 knots with gusts up to 25 knots
SEA STATE: Slight with wave heights of 3 to 5 feet in the Caicos Bank; Moderate with wave heights of 4 to 6 feet, building up to 8 feet in Atlantic waters.
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 83°F 28°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 73°F 23°C
SUNSET: 07:08 PM
NEXT LOW TIDE: 01:35 PM (0.7 FT)
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 07:49 PM (2.6 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: The surface trough will remain nearly stationary through Friday while gradually weakening, keeping the chance of showers in the forecast. Breezy conditions and rough seas will persist through tonight, with gradual improvement expected thereafter as the trough weakens.
THURSDAY: A low (20 percent) chance of widely scattered showers in the morning. Partly cloudy, with a high near 84°F (29°C).
THURSDAY NIGHT: Mostly fair, with a low around 75°F (24°C).
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 to 15 knots
SEA STATE: Slight with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet in the Caicos Bank; Slight to moderate with wave heights of 3 to 5 feet, building up to 7 feet in Atlantic waters.
SUNRISE: 06:28 AM
SUNSET: 07:08 PM
LOW TIDE: 02:08 AM (0.7 FT) 02:17 PM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 08:07 AM (2.6 FT) 08:38 PM (3.0 FT)
FRIDAY: A low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 84°F (29°C).
FRIDAY NIGHT: Isolated showers possible. Mostly fair, with a low around 75°F (24°C).
WINDS: Easterly at 10 to 15 knots
SEA STATE: Slight with wave heights of 1 to 3 feet in the Caicos Bank; Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 5 feet in Atlantic waters.
SUNRISE: 06:27 AM
SUNSET: 07:09 PM
LOW TIDE: 03:00 AM (0.7 FT) 03:01 PM (0.3 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 08:53 AM (2.6 FT) 09:26 PM (3.0 FT)
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
‘We will not survive’: Toyota, Honda and Ford CEOs issue chilling warning about China — and it could hit your portfolio
China has long been considered not only an ever-more-efficient manufacturing force to be reckoned with, but the "world's factory", responsible for upwards of 30% of total industrial production — and, its mastery of certain sectors, like automotive, is a growing cause for concern among stakeholders.
A whopping 70% of all new electric vehicles (EVs) now hail from China, with Shenzhen-headquartered brand BYD far outpacing Tesla and others in sales, and scaling worldwide operations as a result. It has automakers like Toyota, Honda and Ford panicking about projects and overhauling strategy, with Ford executives saying even three years ago that China was way ahead of the game.
And, a recent tour of one of the Asian powerhouse's vehicle plants has proved this beyond a shadow of a doubt, at least to Honda President and CEO Toshihiro Mibe.
"We have no chance against this," Mibe said upon a visit to a Shanghai parts factory, commenting on its seamless automation across all levels of production. Logistics, procurement and all aspects of the process were so automated, in fact, that he did not spot a single human worker on the supplier's floor.
The Chinese edge
Ford and Toyota leaders have expressed similar sentiments regarding Chinese makers' sheer speed in not just building cars, but designing them. The nation is known for its expedient development of all sorts of products, and its ability to bring vehicles from concept to market in half the time of competitors is one of the more unignorable examples of this.
China's cheap labour costs, lack of red tape, well-harmonized supply chain, tax rebates and more have also helped to create an unmatchable cost-competitive edge that other industry players are understandably spooked about. And, investors with money on the line have a right to be apprehensive, too.
Honda's sales within China — a country that was once a boon for the maker — have plummeted from some 1.6 million new cars in 2020 to just 640,000 in 2025, with the brand expected to produce even less than 600,000 vehicles this year at its Chinese facilities, which are only operating at 50% capacity due to waning interest. Toyota has also just reported year-over-year sales declines within the country in March as homegrown BYD's lead in the EV sector continues to grow.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's move to drastically slash tariffs on Chinese EVs in January have also made companies like BYD more of a threat closer to home.
Potential portfolio implications
Automotive stocks are a common part of many broad-based mutual funds and ETFs — historically even a cornerstone for some — with Tesla perennially serving as one of the more contentious picks.
This week, some experts doubled down on Tesla stock as prices slid, while others warned of a crash. The Musk-helmed company, Ford and Toyota remain among the best-known investment options in the sector. But, big shifts in focus under the threat of Chinese manufacturing, along with disappointing sales numbers, could understandably make investment feel risky.
Honda recently reanimated its shuttered R&D arm in hopes to spur more innovation, with Mibe telling journalists in March that the company needs to focus on digitization, and quickly. At the same time, executives announced huge "losses associated with the reassessment of its automobile electrification strategy" at the end of March following the cancellation of a number of Honda's EV projects, including the 0 SUV, 0 Sedan, and Afeela models.
Toyota's CEO has likewise said regarding not just his company, but the industry in general, "unless things change, we will not survive", calling for some major productivity pivots to match Chinese manufacturers. Meanwhile, homegrown EV competitors like Rivian and Lucid are showing promise in the face of deterioration elsewhere in the sector.
Mrs. Patsy Thompson Appointed as Assistant Registrar in Land Registry
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Patsy Thompson as the Assistant Registrar within the Land Registry Department of the National Lands Secretariat.
Thompson has more than 36 years of experience in the Land Registry department, having first joined the Turks and Caicos Islands Government in 1984. She served in the department until 2001 and subsequently returned to public service in 2007 as Senior Land Administrative Officer.
In her new role, she will contribute her substantial knowledge and experience to strengthening administrative processes and enhancing customer service delivery. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to the mission of maintaining accurate, efficient and transparent land registration services while supporting the continued modernization of the system.
Thompson has completed several professional certificate courses in areas including Land Registration Training, Public Speaking and Civil Litigation. Her professional development is further supported by Customer Service training with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and Land Tenure and Property Rights training with the United States Agency for International Development.
Reflecting on her appointment, Mrs. Thompson shared, "I remain humble in accepting this senior position and give God thanks for His continued favour in my life. As Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' I truly believe that what God has ordained for you will be yours in His perfect timing. I intend to contribute my institutional knowledge and dedication to strengthening administrative processes and supporting the integrity of the land registration system in the Turks and Caicos Islands."
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams in congratulatory remarks said, "It is with great pleasure that I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mrs. Patsy Thompson on her appointment as Assistant Registrar of the Turks and Caicos Islands Land Registry following the retirement of Mrs. Naomi Simmons-Been.
I take this opportunity to sincerely thank Mrs. Naomi Simmons-Been, who dedicated over 30 years of exemplary service to our islands and to wish her continued success, good health and fulfilment in her retirement.
Mrs. Thompson’s appointment is well deserved as she has consistently demonstrated a high level of professionalism, integrity and a strong commitment to delivering excellent customer service in her previous role. I am confident that she will excel in this new role and will continue to make meaningful contributions to the Land Registry.
Congratulations once again, Mrs. Thompson, on your well-earned promotion.”
CARIFTA Track and Field 2026 - Team TCI Returns with 2 Medals
Jamaica topped the medals table at the Carifta Games for the 40th straight time after amassing 71 medals at the 53rd staging which ended on Monday at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium in Grenada.
Jamaica's total saw 28 gold, 27 silver and 16 bronze.
Trinidad and Tobago were next with 35 medals- nine gold, 11 silver and 15 bronze, followed by the Bahamas with 30 medals- eight gold, 12 silver and 10 bronze.
Team TCI secured 2 medals at the track and field competition...
David Hall winning a gold medal in the U20 High Jump and Herwens Guerrier securing a silver medal in U17 high jump.
The team returned home yesterday with a fun filled welcome at the Howard Hamilton International Airport, a motorcade followed by a press conference.
For the first time a Turks and Caicos Islander took command as Head Coach, a former athlete himself Courtney Missick... says we need to take a chance on our youth.
Now we also brought home a bronze medal.. and this was in CARIFTA Swimming... Luc Durliat took a third place podium finish in the Boys 11-12 200m Butterfly.
TCIG presented all 3 medalista with a special token of appreciation. An enhancement fund to assist them with continued development in their athletic disciplines.
Bronze medalist Luc Durliat received $4,000
Silver medalist Herwens Guerrier received $6,000
Gold medalist David Hall received $10,000
Congratulations Team TCI! A job well done.
