News
House of Assembly motion calls for InterHealth Canada Investigation
Providenciales, 27 Jan 2015 – The country should have already moved to capitation from cost plus in the case of the Interhealth Canada agreement for health care and health management at the country’s two hospitals. Capitation is basically a pre-determined amount for what health care in the country would cost; cost plus is a more free system where the country is paying a standard amount plus additional costs as presented by Interhealth Canada. Today during the House of Assembly debate, the Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Robinson called for a three pronged investigation into the 10 bed and 20 bed facilities in Grand Turk and Provo. Hon Robinson asked the members of the House to support the investigation and the Governor’s appointed member, Hon John Phillips said he agrees and supports.
“I would have to say we have been underwhelmed by the success so far of the Interhealth Canada project. We are very concern, I have personally experienced three employees, one who is now dead, one who luckily survived because we sent him to Miami and the other one who is in very bad shape. I think an operation of scale which costs the government – I don’t remember the total figure we were just quoted – but $800 and some million over a 25-year period I think it is correct for the House to call for Interhealth Canada to provide us with audited statements, not only financial but technical, clinical whatever you were term; I think this is important not only to the government and the consolidated fund but also to the National Health Insurance program. We here in the House must demonstrate clearly that we are concerned and that we wish to bring InterHealth into line and we wish them to disclose honestly, openly and in a transparent manner to the people of the islands that they are doing their best to provide us with a service.”
The Opposition Leader shared there was explained early on that in three years, there would be a review of ICL, yet in 2013 there were questions about the review and government said it would not take place until 2015, six years later the country is still awaiting financial and clinical audits. Opposition appointed member, Hon Clarence Selver reminded that the entire agreement was struck to reduce the costs of overseas healthcare, but the figures show a steady incline in those expenses absorbing the lion share of the national budget each year at 22%. Selver expressed outrage and called it unacceptable that the Turks and Caicos who hired InterHealth Canada is now made to wait on information as they continue to pay the unaudited bills. He charged that the PNP Administration is proving that it does not have compassion on the issue, that the government is not representing the people well. The motion wants answers on the cost of construction, the operational agreement of the contract from beginning to end and why a 10 bed and 20 bed facility costs what it costs.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 23rd January 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force recently intercepted illegal handheld gambling devices coming through Howard Hamilton International Airport. Often disguised as everyday electronic gadgets, these devices are strictly prohibited under the Casino Ordinance, which imposes severe penalties for their importation.
In the past month alone, Border Force officers intercepted 70 such devices during routine inspections of passengers’ luggage and cargo. Smugglers frequently attempt to conceal these items within personal belongings or mislabel them on cargo manifests to evade detection.
Sophisticated tactics, including hidden compartments and misleading product descriptions, are commonly employed to bypass customs
controls.
Under the Casino Ordinance, importing, possessing, or distributing unlicensed gambling devices is a criminal offence. Offenders may face fines of up to $3,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both, depending on the severity of the violation.
The Border Force hereby reminds the public that ignorance of the law is no defence and urges all travellers and businesses to comply with import regulations. Travellers are advised to ensure that any electronic devices they bring into the country comply with local laws. Importers and retailers are likewise reminded to verify the legality of their products before shipment.
It is important to note that TCI Lotto Games is the only authorised operator of lottery activities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Any other entity or individual involved in importing or possessing unlicensed gambling devices is breaching the Casino Ordinance and will be held accountable under the law. By remaining vigilant and adhering to these regulations, travellers and businesses can help prevent illegal activities and support the integrity of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ border controls.
For all media inquiries, please contact crilightbourne@gov.tc
PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE GRAND BAHAMA PORT AUTHORITY, LIMITED
Freeport, Grand Bahama – January 23, 2025 – The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) is thrilled to announce its title sponsorship of the 12th Annual Tour De Grand Bahama cycling competition, now officially branded the “Grand Bahama Port Authority Tour De Grand Bahama.” Organized by the Grand Bahama Cycling Association, this highly anticipated two-day event will take place on February 8th and 9th, 2025, attracting both Bahamian and international cyclists.
Dr. Telina Smith, Director of Human Resources & Administrator for GBPA Donations, shared the organization’s excitement about supporting this signature event. “We are proud supporters of sporting events, health and wellness initiatives, and cycling activities on the island. These include the GBPA Conchman Triathlon, in which our Acting Chairman, Sarah St. George, participates annually, as well as the Horrible Hundred, another prominent cycling competition hosted by the Grand Bahama Cycling Association. We commend Kenton Roker and his team for making the Tour de Grand Bahama such a meaningful event, uniting the community and attracting cyclists from around the world.”
Kenton Roker, President of the Grand Bahama Cycling Association, expressed gratitude for GBPA’s continued support since the inception of the event. “I would like to thank the Grand Bahama Port Authority for coming on board as a title sponsor. Their support has been integral to the success of this competition year after year. This year promises to be the best one yet due to significant international interest,” said Roker.
Cyclists from the University of Florida in Gainesville, two teams from Tampa, Florida, a contingent from Turks and Caicos, as well as competitors from Canada, Nassau, Grand Bahama, and the Family Islands, will participate. “We are expecting more than 50 cyclists to compete this year,” Roker noted. He also expressed appreciation to all additional event sponsors who make this prestigious competition possible.
The two-day event features three dynamic stages that will challenge cyclists of all levels. The competition kicks off with a 3.7-mile time trial – a race against the clock designed to test speed and endurance. The second stage is a closed-circuit race lasting one hour, plus three laps, where strategy and pacing will be crucial. On Sunday, the event culminates with a grueling open-category road race: an 80-mile test of stamina and skill starting and finishing at the GBPA Headquarters. Female cyclists will tackle a 60-mile course, while juniors will compete in a 40-mile race, ensuring inclusivity and excitement across all categories.
The Grand Bahama Port Authority is honored to be the driving force behind an event that celebrates athletic excellence, promotes health and wellness, and showcases Grand Bahama as a hub for world-class sporting events.
For more information about the Grand Bahama Port Authority Tour De Grand Bahama, please contact the Grand Bahama Cycling Association at 359-4697 or 442-8346.
Photo Caption:
Pictured Left to Right: Lorna Maxis, GB Cycling Association Representative; Kenton Roker, GB Cycling Association President; Dr. Telina Smith, GBPA Director of Human Resources; Cara Saunders, GB Cycling Association Representative
-
Crime5 days agoFrom TCI Police, a DOUBLE HOMICIDE:
-
Bahamas News5 days agoFreeport Health Campus development, progressing steadily
-
Bahamas News1 week agoCIBC Caribbean warns about ‘smishing’ scam
-
TCI News7 days agoTURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT (TCIG) – SPACEX INCIDENT PUBLIC ADVISORY
-
News7 days agoAnother Hard-hitting loss for Turks and Caicos; Gospel preacher Elva Talbot Murdered at home
-
Caribbean News5 days agoGovernment Committed to Making Housing More Affordable – PM
-
Crime4 days agoUpdated Double Homicide Statement – #2
-
Caribbean News6 days agoCancer Care Equipment Commissioned into Service at National Public Health Laboratory