Turks and Caicos, June 16, 2017 – Providenciales – These Islands have been cast in the most negative light over the past few weeks with scathing attacks at me as Premier and also against members of the Cabinet, other elected members of Parliament and family members. It is regrettable that this side of our country was showcased to the world especially via the world wide web. But I am encouraged by the number of personal expressions of encouragement received by me and my colleagues. The expressions of love and support revealed that we are still a loving people. We are fully aware that the recent weeks were fueled by different agendas and motives and by disgruntled individuals who sought to exploit a private family matter for political and personal gain. We are confident that this will all pass and we welcome being held into account and for persons expressing themselves freely as we as humans have a right to that basic right but we ask that we do so respectfully and truthfully.
Six months ago we as a Party was overwhelming elected to be the Government of this country and we have used this occasion to review our position and to make decisions for the road ahead having laid critical foundations. Your Government remains firm in its commitment to deliver the promised change for the people of this country and we as a Government and as a Party refuse to allow distractions to deter us from governance. This does not mean that we will ignore the voice of the people but that we will accept criticism when it is meant to be constructive and when it is truthful.
Equally important to the realisation of your Government’s agenda is the crucial role of Cabinet where there must be comradery, respect, confidentiality and competence. The appointment, management and revocation, if necessary, of members is the sole responsibility of the Premier and I accepted this with humility recognizing that tough decisions will come at times along the way.
I have unfortunately arrived at a place where I have had to ask HE The Governor to revoke the appointment of Hon Josephine Connolly. At this juncture, I will say that I thank Hon Connolly for her acceptance of my offer to serve in Cabinet and believe that she will continue to do for the people of this country as they have become accustomed.
It is important that the country understand that this Government and the PDM Party is above personalities and will seek to make decisions that are critical for the advancement of our people as a Team. Nation building requires team work and trust and when this is threatened and people are going in different directions and not ahead in one direction and as one unit, we cannot deliver for the people. Anything other than togetherness is a threat to nation building.
This Government is strong and we are at the plow all for the greater good of building a better and stronger nation.
I will address the people of this country further to any other statements issued and will participate in a full Press Conference on Monday, June 19th at 9am from the Premier’s Office in Providenciales.
Press Release: Premier Sharlene Robinson
