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Press Statement By The Hon. D. Shane Gibson, MP Minister of Labour & National Insurance

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The Ministry of Labour & National Insurance wishes to express its disappointment with the recent actions taken by the Management of the Melià Hotel against the officers and members of the Bahamas Hotel Catering & Allied Workers Union.

It has come to our attention that the Management of the Hotel, and by extension the principals of Baha Mar, have taken a decision to cease the long standing arrangement of the collection of Union dues from Union members and turn the same over to the Hotel Union. Additionally, we have been advised that the security staff of the hotel has been given instructions to deny the duly elected officers of the Bahamas Hotel Catering & Allied Workers Union access to the Baha Mar properties.

On behalf of the Government of The Bahamas, I wish to remind the Management of Melià as well as the principals of Baha Mar that the Bahamas Hotel Catering & Allied Workers Union is the statutory recognized trade union for all non-managerial workers at the property and as such the hotel has a legal obligation to treat and enter into negotiations, in good faith, with the elected officials of the Union. Failure to recognize this and to work in accordance with the legislation, is a violation of the Industrial Relations Act and if convicted, the Management of Melia and Baha Mar will be subject to a fine of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), imprisonment of up to two years or both fine and imprisonment.

In the letter that went to staff earlier this week that outlined the Hotel’s decision to cease the practice of union deductions with effect from 31 August, 2015, the Hotel makes reference to a recent Supreme Court decision. However, I wish to caution the Management of Melià and Baha Mar that the Government of The Bahamas has a duty to look out for the general welfare of all Bahamians and we are of the opinion that the action taken by the Hotel is not in the best interest of Bahamian workers.

I, therefore, call on the Management of the Hotel and Baha Mar, in the spirit of industrial goodwill, to take urgent and immediate steps to review and reverse their decision and consider whether it is in the best interest of the Hotel to create an environment of industrial unrest that will have a negative impact on the economy of The Bahamas.

I caution the principals of Baha Mar and of Melià and remind them that they are guests in our lovely Bahamaland and the Government will do whatever is necessary to protect the rights of Bahamian workers and ensure that the statute laws are enforced.

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Sonia Fulford Re-Elected to FIFA Council Unopposed: A Historic Moment for The Caribbean and World Football

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Turks and Caicos, March 22, 2025 – Today marks a historic milestone in Caribbean and world football as Sonia Fulford has been re-elected unopposed to the FIFA Council for an unprecedented third consecutive term. This remarkable achievement reaffirms her status as a trailblazer, being the first woman to hold these positions on both the FIFA and Concacaf Council for three successive terms.  Fulford was initially elected to the FIFA Council in 2013, ahead of the FIFA’s reform which introduced term limits of no more than three four-year terms, which makes Fulford the second longest-serving sitting member of the FIFA Council.

Fulford’s journey in football began on the field as a player for the Turks & Caicos Islands National Team. Her passion for the sport led her to serve as General Secretary of the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) in 2006 before being elected as its President in 2014. Over the years, she has become a formidable force in shaping the development of football in the Turks & Caicos Islands, the Caribbean and beyond.

Under her leadership, Fulford has been a relentless advocate for the growth and inclusivity of the sport, championing development programs and funding, increasing opportunities for women in football, and ensuring that smaller nations have a voice on the global stage. Her re-election is a testament to the trust and confidence placed in her by the footballing fraternity, recognizing her unwavering commitment to the sport’s progress.

Expressing gratitude for this significant moment, Fulford stated:                                                                                                                                                              “I am deeply honored and humbled by the confidence shown in me by my colleagues and the global football community. This journey has never been about personal accolades but about creating opportunities, fostering growth, and ensuring that football continues to unite and inspire. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the members and stakeholders who have supported me throughout the years. My gratitude also goes to my dedicated staff and the entire TCIFA family, present and past, who have made my job easier with their unwavering commitment. To my family, especially my husband Guadrvin Missick, your support has been my pillar of strength, and I share this achievement with you.”

Looking ahead, Fulford reaffirmed her pledge to continue her mission of empowering the people of the region, particularly women, and ensuring that Caribbean football continues to thrive on the world stage.

“This re-election is not just a victory for me but for the entire region. It is proof that our voices matter and that we have a seat at the highest levels of decision-making. I remain steadfast in my commitment to advocating for our region, fostering talent, and ensuring that football serves as a vehicle for positive change.”

Her re-election serves as a proud moment for the Caribbean and the Turks & Caicos Islands, highlighting the region’s growing influence in global football governance. The announcement was made during the 40th Concacaf Ordinary Congress, held on March 15, 2025, in Castries, St. Lucia. As she embarks on another term, the future of football in the region looks brighter than ever under her steadfast leadership.

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Turks and Caicos United Investment Ltd. Launches to Empower Local Investors and Build Generational Wealth  

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – A bold new chapter in financial empowerment has begun with the official launch of Turks and Caicos United Investment Ltd. (TCUI) on Tuesday, March 17th, during a special edition of Financially Speaking. This initiative is set to transform how Turks and Caicos Islanders—both at home and abroad—engage in wealth creation and economic growth.

Uniting Investors, Strengthening the Economy

TCUI is more than just an investment platform; it is a movement designed to unite and empower Turks and Caicos residents to take control of their financial future. By pooling resources, TCUI members will have access to strategic investment opportunities that foster economic sustainability, financial independence, and generational wealth.

“Our goal is to ensure that Turks and Caicos Islanders are at the forefront of economic development,” said Drexwell Seymour, Chairperson of TCUI. “Through collaboration and smart investing, we are creating a pathway for residents to build long-term financial security and preserve a legacy for future generations.”

A Vision for Prosperity

The idea for TCUI emerged after the Government’s announcement of a $1,000 cost-of-living relief stimulus. Instead of viewing the stimulus as a short-term fix, a group of more than 20 forward-thinking individuals came together to establish an organization that would provide lasting financial benefits. Their collective vision is to create an investment vehicle that allows Turks and Caicos Islanders to actively shape the nation’s financial landscape.

With an emphasis on community-driven investing, TCUI is positioning itself as a catalyst for economic transformation. The company aims to support ventures that not only yield strong financial returns but also contribute to the overall development and sustainability of the Turks and Caicos economy.

Meet the Leaders Behind TCUI

TCUI is backed by a strong leadership team committed to guiding the organization toward success:

  • Drexwell Seymour – Chairperson
  • Jena Janse – Deputy Chairperson
  • Kendi Jones – Secretary
  • Tekarrah Gardiner – Treasurer
  • Ranekia Lightbourne Daley – Member & Liaison Relationship Director

How to Get Involved

TCUI is inviting residents of Turks and Caicos Islands and TCI citizens abroad to become part of this groundbreaking initiative. Whether you’re an experienced investor or new to the world of finance, TCUI offers a structured, community-driven approach to wealth-building that ensures every investor has a stake in the nation’s future.

To learn more about TCUI and how you can participate, visit www.tcunitedinvestment.com.

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Successful Interception of Illegal Vessel nearly 300 Haitian Migrants caught

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Turks and Caicos, March 22, 2025 – Shortly after 10:00 p.m. yesterday (14 March 2025), the United States Air Support (USAS) Unit detected an illegal migrant vessel approximately 15 miles south of Providenciales.

The vessel was reported to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, which deployed two response vessels.  In a coordinated effort, the USAS and the Marine Branch successfully intercepted the vessel.

TWO HUNDRED and SEVENTY-SEVEN (277) Haitian migrants were being transported.

The breakdown is as follows: TWO HUNDRED and THIRTY-FOUR (234) males and FORTY-THREE (43) females (including three pregnant women and one minor).

A Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessel conducting patrols under the Shiprider Agreement was diverted to assist in transporting the individuals to Providenciales.  The illegals were then handed over to the TCI Border Force, aided by the TCI Regiment, for processing.

This marks yet another successful interdiction reinforcing the commitment of all involved to combat irregular migration.  The RT&CIPF takes this opportunity to commend the personnel involved for their dedication to border security and public safety.  We are warning individuals facilitating these unlawful activities to desist and strongly advise against persons attempting to enter the TCI illegally.  The RT&CIPF remains resolute in deterring and disrupting human smuggling operations while safeguarding our national security.

The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to anonymously provide any information on Illegal entry into the TCI.

Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information anonymously.

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