Press Release

Dear Residents of the TCI,

Please allow me to share my views on the recent decision of the Supreme Court to dismiss the judicial review proceedings filed by FortisTCI raising unsubstantiated allegations about my suitability to serve as Energy and Utilities Commissioner for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

First, I am pleased with the decision of the Supreme Court. Background facts of the case and the conclusion arrived at by the Supreme Court Judge that there was no evidence to support the claims brought by FortisTCI against me, have been outlined in the Government’s press release of 23^rd July, 2024.

The decision of the Supreme Court affirms my appointment as Commissioner and has given me renewed vigour to continue to discharge my duties to the public.

Secondly, I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to The Attorney-General, Hon. Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, OBE, KC, and her team for their sterling representation and unwavering support.

Thirdly, notwithstanding the entirely baseless attempt by FortisTCI to remove me from the office of Commissioner, I pledge that I will continue to discharge my duties as Commissioner without fear or favour.

It is not by happenstance that the Turks and Caicos Islands now has a Commissioner that stands up for the best interests of all and not just a select few. I will not hesitate to challenge the status quo, where required, regardless of those who may have a vested interest in maintaining it, when it is not in the best interests of residents and the country. The objective is to make energy affordable, sustainable and reliable.

Despite the challenges I have faced, I have worked with an unrelenting focus and in collaboration with ALL stakeholders across the country to effect positive change benefitting all residents, specifically by working to position the Turks and Caicos Islands for an energy future that is increasingly renewable, affordable, sustainable and reliable.

My office has recently concluded stakeholder consultations on Regulatory Reform in the Utility Sector, and soon we will begin to re-engage the public on matters involving renewable energy. There is widespread agreement on the need for energy reform to meet the country’s goals for 33% of energy from renewable sources by the year 2040. This target will not be realized under the status quo.

Change is here and there is a lot left to be done, and I commit to continue to work on behalf of all TCI residents to fulfill the Government’s mandate during my tenure as your Energy and Utilities Commissioner.

Sincerely,

Delano R. Arthur

Energy and Utilities Commissioner

Turks and Caicos Islands Government

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, July 30, 2024 – The Project I.D.E.A. Media Club reopens for registration after two segments. This club was responsible for the production of the short film Ripple Effect which premiered in June this year. In this installment, the club will be launching a new Youth Sports news channel also carrying current affairs called PSN Now!

The free programme is open to 14-21 year olds who have a passion for media and would like to kickstart their career or hone their skills. Classes are held on weekdays, sometimes staggered between weekly and bi-weekly, with opportunities to volunteer at games on weekends putting what was learned into practice.

Classes offered in Part 3:

• Journalism – In the Journalism class you will be trained in news anchoring, writing stories, and researching.
• Content Creation – Learn how to shoot content, making your inner influence come alive or sparking your career as a video editor.
• Photography – Learn the rules of photography, becoming a pro at capturing the moment.

Programme Details:

Duration August 6, 2024 – October 1, 2024

Register online now: https://forms.office.com/r/72NiPgUuaE

Deadline August 3, 2024

For more information email nehislop@gov.tc or visit https://www.gov.tc/sports/our-events/project-i-d-e-a-media-club.

Nassau, BAHAMAS – Powerade endorsee and Bahamian multi-athlete Ken Mullings hosted his first jump clinic last weekend, adding to the list of many firsts he has accomplished this year.

Mullings, the first Bahamian to compete at the Olympics in the decathlon hosted a free jump clinic sponsored by Powerade at the Thomas A. Robinson stadium for athletes of all ages. The 27-year-old shared tips and wellness advice that have assisted him throughout his athletic career.

The intimate jump clinic that focused on Long and High Jump was attended by aspiring young athletes. Attendees displayed their skills throughout the various drills, with some flaunting their experience and others, though new to the sport, matching experience with enthusiasm.

“The kids were really engaged whether it was asking a hundred questions or bursting with energy to show off their skillsets, it was everything I hoped it would be.” Mullings expressed.

“I wanted to host a jump clinic to give back and also test to see how successful it would be for future clinics I would like to do; I think we did just that.” he concluded.

Mullings was thrilled to learn that Powerade, his sponsor, would continue their support of him by holding the clinic. Which he believes further proves that Powerade, “not only cares about how I perform, but also in social and community initiatives that are important to me.”

While the clinic focused on the importance of warm-up, stretching and the mechanics of jumping Mullings ensured to stress the importance of hydration and how consuming Powerade has positively impacted his overall wellness and performance.

Nicholas Knowles, a 17-year-old Long and Triple jumper shared that he was “amazed” to learn from Mullings that “hydration improves your performance by six percent”. Knowles revealed he did not know that prior to the clinic but will be more intentional with ensuring his hydration levels are up with Powerade.

Knowles also shared that Mullings recognized his High jump talents, an event he has never competed in. Leaving feeling inspired, Knowles said he is excited to share what he learned in high jump with his coach and hopes to begin training for the event in the upcoming 2024-2025 track and field season.

Fourteen-year-old Cordell Smith revealed that although his events are the 400, 800 and 1500 meters that participating with Mullings, was “super helpful for my training” and that he “looks forward to qualifying for CARIFTA” by using what he learned.

As for Mullings, he also has his eyes set on bigger and more impactful clinics in the future.

“The future of athletics [in The Bahamas] is heading in the right direction. They are showing how competitive they are and willing to do other events.” he said.

Mullings hopes to host future clinics with more events while also bringing them to various Family Islands.

To receive notice about the next clinic and to learn more about Ken’s sponsorship with Powerade and his Olympic journey visit www.cbcbahamas.com/ken-mullings.