#Providenciales, August 29, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Once Tropical Storm, now Hurricane Dorian has been a shifty system as she barrels through many of the Caribbean islands, in some cases bringing drizzles of rain and in others causing flash floods, dangerous surf conditions and mudslides.
Around 4pm on Tuesday, TCI Authorities put these
islands on Tropical Storm Alert, which meant residents were expected to rush to
readiness by Wednesday and feel the effects of this fourth named storm on
Thursday and all-day Friday.
By 11pm Tuesday, the forecast from the National
Hurricane Center based in Miami Florida, illustrated a different trajectory of
Tropical Storm Dorian; a shift that took the TCI well out of its forecast
cone.
By morning, the tropical storm alert for the Turks
and Caicos was discontinued.
“The Bahamas Met centre confirms that the tropical
storm Dorian has shifted slightly in a northeasterly direction which currently
takes it out of the direct path of the Turks and Caicos Islands. We
will indeed feel some slight (weather) situation as a result of passage of Dorian,
said Ralph Higgs, Minister of Tourism.
The Minister encouraged having an emergency plan
and knowing your plan despite the change which has, at this time, taken the TCI
out of the harm’s way.
“We must continue on the path of preparedness as
you are aware we are still in the peak of our Atlantic Hurricane Season, which
means from now until the end of the peak season, storms can appear on the
horizon,” said the Minister who added, “If you own or operate a business
familiarize yourself with your continuity plan following the passage of a
storm, to ensure there is minimal loss of business in the event we are hit by a
storm in the 2019 season.”
In a media debriefing held at the Governor’s Office
in Providenciales on Wednesday morning; Minister responsible for disaster
management, Ralph Higgs; Director of disaster management, Dr Virginia Clerveaux
and Governor of the territory, His Excellency Nigel Dakin explained the
decision to discontinue, what preparations had been made and even what
reinforcements the United Kingdom have activated as support to all the
Caribbean Overseas territories.
DDME Director, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux talked about what had already taken place in preparation for an encounter with Tropical Storm Dorian.
“We have held sub-committee meetings continuously
throughout the year and we are ensuring that persons are prepared. From these
subcommittee meetings we have action points that are circulated to ensure
persons are doing it. When we had those meetings, we were in touch
with our CDEMA partners, they were communicating and providing us information.
The Governor’s Office was very instrumental and continuously instrumental in
disaster management as you know, as Director of DDME, I advise the Governor so
he would have been kept abreast of every decision that is being made,” said
Director Dr. Clerveaux.
The Governor, who admits this would have been his
first tropical storm encounter said he was impressed with the DDME’s data
driven approach to making decisions and the UK’s readiness to swiftly send
help, if needed.
“What I was very reassured about is that we rapidly
moved the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Mounts Bay in behind the storm, where it
continues to sit so if the storm does change direction tomorrow – and it could
– we’re still in a good position to bring in support rapidly behind it.”
In the TCI on Wednesday, skies were overcast, the
horizon looked hazy and there was early morning light
rain. Residents remained watchful and said, they would continue with
preparations just in case Tropical Storm Dorian did the unexpected; and that
posture is fine by the officials.
“That forecasting may change and if that
forecasting changes, then the advice may change. But I hope given that this is
going to be a recurring theme in the fabric of this country that what we need
to do is very carefully calibrate so that we neither over react, which in the
end will destroy public confidence or indeed under react. I think at
the moment what we are trying to do is give you a very calibrated response,
which we will keep under permanent review over the next few days,” said His
Excellency Dakin.
At 11pm on Wednesday, ‘Dorian’ continued to shift
away from the Turks and Caicos Islands and the storm grew in strength, becoming
a category one hurricane. The NHC forecasts even more
intensification of Dorian.
From the
National Hurricane Center: “On this track,
Dorian should move over the Atlantic well east of the southeastern and central
Bahamas on Thursday and Friday… Dorian is forecast to strengthen into a
powerful hurricane during the next couple of days…Dorian is expected to produce
the following rainfall accumulations: The central Bahamas…2 to 4
inches, isolated 6 inches. The northern Bahamas and Coastal sections of
the Southeast United States…4 to 8 inches, isolated 10 inches. This rainfall may
cause life-threatening flash floods. SURF: Swells around the
U.S. and British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico should gradually diminish
tonight.”
Minister Higgs assured, “Your government will
continue to move proactively to ensure that our country is ready to face any
scenario of natural hazards in the 2019 Hurricane Season.”
Deandrea Hamilton and Dana Malcolm Editorial Staff
It is a brand new minister heading a somewhat new ministry and when Kyle Knowles, the member from Wheeland made his debut as a front bencher during the recently concluded Budget session in the House of Assembly, he announced his mission in a ministerial statement under the theme: “Forging Ahead: Building A Stronger, More Sustainable Ministry.”
There are seven departments within the newly minted, Public Safety and Utilities and the allocation for tops $16 Million for areas, listed by Minister Knowles as: Water Undertaking; Customer and Government Information Services; Postal Services; Correctional Services; Domestic Fire and Rescue; Energy and Utilities and Rehabilitation and Community Services.
The minister announced his spending priorities and on the table is an $850,000 allocation for the completion of the Halfway House in Providenciales; another $300,000 is allocated for the Community Enhancement Program to assist rehabilitation efforts and community projects, while $613,763 will go to the establishment of the Multi-Sector Regulatory agency.
“The Ministry’s mandate is an important and critical one and I pledge my full support to ensuring that we continue with renewed momentum and zeal to deliver for the people of these islands.
Mr. Speaker, my Ministry’s mission is to consistently excel in service delivery, produce high quality products, enhance customer service experiences and uphold the highest standards of excellence and accountability, while safeguarding the well-being, safety and security of the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” said Minister Knowles.
An electronic monitoring system, to the tune of $384,900 was allocated for the Parole Board and $1,615,420 is earmarked for enhancing security across the prison, bringing increased training and staffing resources and broadening of the farm activities at His Majesty’s Prison, also known as the Department of Correctional Services.
A common criticism of ministries of government is their inability to spend the funds allocated, funds which are often announced as necessary to advance development of the society. Minister Kyle Knowles reported on last year’s performance where there was a shortfall in spending.
“Mr. Speaker, as a brief recap of the Ministry’s 2023/2024 performance, total actual revenue for the Ministry was 1.85 million dollars ($1,852,199.40) against an projected 2.35 million dollars ($2,352,025.98). While this was a shortfall of twenty-one percent (21%), this was due to external factors – a planned grant from Expertise France for the RESEMBID programme was not implemented.
The operational performance for 2023/2024 saw the achievement of ninety-five (95%) of the revised estimates being spent. Total expenditure was 13.24 million dollars ($13,237,019.75) against the projected 13.92 million dollars ($13,922,059.92).”
Still he seemed pleased that projects, namely: Construction and renovation of structures for Water Undertaking; Construction and renovation of structures for the Department of Correctional Services and Purchase of plant and heavy machinery for Water Undertaking were on the previous fiscal period’s agenda, adding that most program strategies were completed with a focus ramping up the ministry’s performance.
“As I deliver remarks in this new capacity, I accept the mantle and carry it forward, building on the foundation and accomplishments of the former Minister and his executive team.
It would be remiss of me, if I did not pause to express gratitude to the Minister for Home Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Commission and in that same vein to thank the Executive Team of my Ministry, led by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Bridgette Newman, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Teann Thomas, Head of Secretariat Ms. Shanetta Thompson, all Heads of Departments and support staff for the warm welcome I have received and I look forward to building on the Ministry’s successes as together we chart the way forward.”
GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS, 18 APRIL 2024 – Section 61 of the Turks and Caicos Islands constitution relates to the appointment of an Electoral District Boundary Commission. On 26th February 2024, Her Excellency the Acting Governor Mrs. Anya Williams. appointed a Boundaries Commission to review and alter the present boundaries and make changes, if necessary.
The following persons were appointed as members of the Committee:
Rev Dr. Julia E Williams Retired Civil Servant and Methodist Minister (Chairman) Hon Justice K Neville Adderley M.B. (Member) Ms Tremaine R S Harvey LLB(hons) Attorney at Law (Member)
The Constitution also stipulates that a Commission after appointment may regulate its procedure and, with the Governor acting in her discretion, may confer powers and impose duties on any public officer, or any authority of the Government for the purpose of discharge of its functions.
For the purpose of discharge of its functions , the Commission
May invite views from members of the public.
Shall consult the public about the draft of its report; and
May seek advice as it considers appropriate.
The Commission and its members , under the Constitution, shall NOT be subject to the direction and control of any person or authority.
The Commission will review the boundaries of the Electoral Districts, and submit to the Governor and House of Assembly, a report on their findings.:-
Stating that in the opinion of the commission, no changes to these boundaries is required, OR
Recommending the changes in those boundaries specified in the report.
In determining its recommendations, the Commission under subsection (1) (b), and in determining whether or not to recommend any changes in the electoral district boundaries, the Commission shall ensure that the electoral districts contain, so far as is reasonably practicable, approximately equal numbers of persons qualified to be registered as electors.
In order to be successful in its deliberations and produce an efficient report to HE the Governor, the Commission will visit ALL islands, have discussions with members of the public and have public meetings.
Deliberations will commence as follows:- WEEK BEGINNING 8TH -12TH APRIL 2024
Meetings with Chief Statistician
Meeting with Director of Survey and Mapping
Meeting with Supervisor of Elections
( Secretary to make appointments for meetings to be held virtually) DRAFT REPORT COMPLETED BY 30TH APRIL 2024 6THto 10TH MAY 2024
Courtesy calls – HE the Governor
Hon Premier
Hon Leader of the Opposition
Hon Attorney General
(Secretary to make appointments for meetings to be held virtually) MEETING WITH GROUPS FACE TO FACE – 13TH -16TH MAY 2024 13th May 2024 Salt Cay in the morning at 10.00 a.m.
Grand Turk in the evening at 6.30 p.m. 14th May 2024 South Caicos at 6.30 pm 15th May 2024 North Caicos in the evening at 6.30 p.m. 16th May 2024 Middle Caicos in the morning at 10.00 a.m. 17th May 2024
During the afternoon the Commission will visit the electoral boundaries in Providenciales with an officer from the Lands and Survey Office Meeting in Providenciales at 7.00 p.m.
(Secretary to make appointments for travel, meeting places, transport, accommodation in Salt Cay, Grand Turk. South Caicos, Middle Caicos , North Caicos and in Providenciales)
Ministry of Health and Human Services successfully conducted Emergency Vehicle Operator Training for Emergency Medical Services Department in March 2024.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of emergency services across the Turks and Caicos Islands with the successful completion of an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course. Hosted for all members of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department, this course marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to provide high quality emergency response services.
Tailored specifically for ambulance operators, the course featured a comprehensive curriculum blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Participants underwent rigorous training encompassing critical safety practices essential for effective emergency responses. The amalgamation of didactic instruction and hands-on training enabled operators to navigate emergency situations with precision and confidence, fostering a culture of safety paramount for preserving lives.
In times of crisis, the EMS Department emphasizes the importance of well-trained and composed responders. Equipped with the skills acquired through this specialized course, EMS personnel are better prepared to address emergencies promptly and effectively, ensuring timely assistance to individuals in need.
The course, conducted by esteemed expert Mike Massaro, President of Trilogy Emergency Medical Solutions, ran from March 19th to March 22nd, 2024, across all islands. Mr. Massaro commended the EMS Department members for their enthusiasm and dedication to learning, acknowledging their pivotal role in enhancing community safety.
Participants lauded the interactive teaching approach employed throughout the course, noting its effectiveness in making lessons both engaging and informative. Their positive feedback underscores the value of practical, hands-on training in bolstering emergency response capabilities.
Minister of Health and Human Services, Honorable Shaun D Malcolm commented that “I am confident that the principles instilled during this course will significantly contribute to the safety and well-being of individuals accessing emergency services. By investing in continuous training and development, the Ministry remains steadfast in its mission to deliver safe, efficient and reliable emergency care to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
For more information, please visit the Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook pagE at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.