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Investing in nature management is crucial to TCI’s economy – Strengthening nature management in TCI through capacity building and long-term financing

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#TurksandCaicos, August 18, 2017 – Providenciales – DECR staff and representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Culture and Gaming, and the civil society are meeting in Providenciales with research consultants from Wolfs Company to discuss the preliminary findings of the AGRRA reef assessment conducted in May, and discuss the importance of nature for TCI’s economy and opportunities to increase financing for nature management and monitoring in TCI.

During the meetings, representatives from Wolfs Company presented the key findings from the sustainable finance project conducted in 2015-2016 with the support from the partnerships of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute and the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

“The meetings provided valuable information to the participants on the importance for nature to TCI’s economy. This will support DECR and other nature management organizations in building a fact-based business case to increase financing for nature management”, said Viviana Luján Gallegos, partner at Wolfs Company. Wolfs Company is a research company on environmental economics based in Bonaire and Amsterdam.

The project estimated that the natural resources of TCI contributed an economic value of USD 45.5 million per year to the tourism industry. This analysis did not quantify other ecosystem services provided by nature, such as coastal protection, fisheries and local recreation. Based on a financial plan that calculated the budget needs for DECR to improve their management of marine protected areas, an incremental investment needed to effectively manage and protect TCI’s natural resources could be covered by, for example, earmarking only 1.8% of the tourism-related revenues (around USD 1.1 million from USD 61.5 million).

“The economy of the Turks & Caicos Islands (TCI) depends in large part on tourism, and tourism in turn is heavily dependent on TCI’s natural resources – especially its beaches, natural landscapes, clean coastal waterways and vibrant coral reefs. However, there is a large disconnect between the revenues that are generated from, amongst others, tourism and the investment that has been made in the management of the natural capital that underpins these revenues. A relatively small incremental investment in the financing of the organizations responsible for the natural resources of TCI would contribute significantly to improve the management and protection of essential natural capital.  DECR would encourage further use of Natural capital valuation by TCIG to further demonstrate the value of nature to TCI’s economy in planning and development strategies for TCI” said Mr. Ethan Griesbach, acting Director of the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR).

The meetings also served to present the preliminary findings and suggestions of the ongoing BEST 2.0 project financed by the BEST 2.0 initiative with funding from the European Commission.

The preliminary results of the assessments conducted during the AGRRA training, held in May in Providenciales, in the framework of this project, show that in the two sites surveyed (one inside and one outside the Princess Alexandra Park) the coral cover has decreased in comparison to the findings of a baseline monitoring survey conducted in TCI in 1999. Other reef health indicators show improvement, which could be attributed to effective conservation policies, like the fishing ban on parrot fish.

To assess whether in general the health of the coral reefs in TCI is declining, a new baseline survey of all the sites assessed in 1999 will need to be conducted. In addition, suggestions were presented for other management and socio-economic indicators that could be applied by DECR to track and report the benefits of more investments in nature management. Finally, discussions were held on suggestions to improve the long-term financing for monitoring and nature management in TCI, including potential sources of revenue and legal mechanisms that will guarantee that these funds will be only used for nature management.

“I am convinced about the importance of our natural resources to the health of our economy. These types of initiatives are important to provide fact-based information to decision makers to support policy that will enhance our capabilities to manage and conserve our valuable natural resources. I will support the consideration by our government of options to achieve this, including mechanisms that could be similar to the Conservation Fund we had in the past” said Honorable Minister Higgs, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Culture and Gaming. The Conservation Fund that provided additional financing for nature management organizations in TCI was abolished in 2009.

For more information please contact:

Mr. Ethan Griesbach at egriesbach@gov.tc

Mrs. Viviana Luján at viviana.lujan@wolfscompany.com

Press Release: TCIG

 

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TCI Police encourage ‘vigilance in support’ as Ministry of Education announces 232-SAFE Lifeline following Teenager Suicide

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Turks and Caicos, November 4, 2024 – Around 1 a.m. on Sunday October 29, a 17-year old teenager was found by his father, unresponsive at their Palm Grove home and police confirm they are looking into the heartbreaking death as a suspected suicide.

The boy was reportedly found hanging.  School was dismissed early and a new avenue for access to qualified help has been announced by the Minister of Education.

“We know that this is an incredibly difficult time for the school and larger community as it is still a shock to lose someone in such a tragic manner.  The Ministry of Education through its Student Support Services continues to provide emotional and psychological support and we urge all our students who are in need of intervention to use the services available to them including the Student Support Services Hotline number 232-SAFE (7233).  The Ministry considers its responsibility for the safety and well-being of children of utmost importance.”

The official report, by Royal TCI Police Force explained: Officers were called to the scene shortly after 1:00 a.m., where the minor was found unresponsive.  Medical personnel confirmed his passing shortly afterwards.

Assistant Superintendent attached to the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit Grantley Williams said, “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends during this difficult time.  The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has initiated an investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.  We recognize that the loss of a young life impacts an entire community.”

Indeed it does.  The Turks and Caicos has been overwhelmed by an uncharacteristically high rate of murder, hitting a record 41 homicides this year; the latest recorded on Sunday November 3, 2024.

This suspected suicide has demanded a different kind of alarm and officials are swift to offer advice.

“As we grieve alongside the minor’s family and community, we want to encourage everyone to remain vigilant in supporting each other.  This loss is a reminder of how important it is to reach out to those around us who may be facing emotional struggles.

“I also wish to appeal to the public; please exercise respect, humanity and sensitivity in what you post or circulate on social media platforms regarding this tragedy.”

The Ministry of Education swooped in as well; identifying the teenager later that day.

“The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture is deeply saddened by the passing of a form 5 student, Lizander Francis, of the HJ Robinson High School. This is indeed a very unfortunate incident, and we extend sympathy to the family, principal, staff and students of the school.

The Ministry is committed to doing everything to lend support to the family, student population and staff. As an immediate response, the Student Support Services (a multiagency initiative) has been activated, where debriefing sessions are being conducted with all students and teachers. The Department of Social Development and the Department of Behavioural Health Services together with Guidance Counselors across Grand Turk have been mobilized to provide psychological first aid to all affected persons. In the coming days, continued group and individual intervention sessions will be extended to students and staff at HJ Robinson High School.”

Lizander Francis was a Fifth Form student at the HJ Robinson High School and a member of the Cadet Corps.  He was a very jovial young man who cared about his classmates and his friends.  He was well mannered, kind, respectful, diligent and full of promise.

The Honorable Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Cultureand the team from the Ministry, Departments and all schools, extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Lizander Francis during this time of profound loss. The Minister stated, “The loss of a child is an unimaginable sorrow, and our hearts naturally seek understanding in moments like these. I commend you to Almighty God and encourage you to find strength and comfort in trusting Him.”

TCI Police also informed, the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), an arm of the Department of Social Development and Welfare, should be contacted at 338 4013 if you have any concerns about a child you believe has been harmed or is at risk of harm. Persons are also encouraged to dial 911.

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Fredrico Johnson Appointed to Permanent Secretary

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Turks and Caicos, November 2, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is excited to announce the appointment of Fredrico Johnson to Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Mr. Johnson is a distinguished senior management leader with over ten years of experience in both public and private sectors.  Most recently, he served as Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs, where he directed the development and implementation of essential policies, ensured public service accountability, and promoted strategic initiatives focused on talent development and succession planning. His contributions to policy development included leading a delegation to the Bahamas for insights into a local government policy initiative and addressing public service backlogs, which greatly enhanced operational efficiency.

Additionally, Mr. Johnson previously served as District Commissioner, managing government services, projects, and financial planning on the island while collaborating with various government departments to deliver critical community services.

Currently, Mr. Johnson is pursuing a Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Walden University (expected 2025) and holds a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in International Business from Johnson & Wales University. His ongoing professional development includes certifications in emergency management, urban search and rescue, and results-driven development.

In response to his appointment, Mr. Johnson shared his thoughts: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed as the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Home Affairs. This role presents an incredible opportunity to serve our nation and its people, and I am driven by the belief that we must let our passion drive our success. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my support system and mentors, who have offered encouragement, guidance, and prayers throughout the years. Their unwavering support has been invaluable on this journey. A special thank you goes to Permanent Secretary James Astwood for his exemplary leadership over the past few years. His dedication and commitment have laid a strong foundation for us to build upon. I am also grateful to our Deputy Governor for her visionary approach, which has provided young leaders in the public service with the platform to grow, flourish, and lead. To the entire team, I am excited to work alongside you as we continue progressing and enhancing our ministry’s service to the public. Together, I am confident we will achieve great things.”

H.E. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, expressed her congratulations, stating, “It is with great enthusiasm that I congratulate Mr. Johnson on his appointment to Permanent Secretary. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to public service. He assisted in leading strategic initiatives that not only improved operational efficiency but also significantly elevated the level of service within the Ministry of Home Affairs. I have every confidence that he will bring the same dedication and innovative thinking to this new role, and I look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact he will have on the Ministry and the public service at large.

Congratulations to Mr. Johnson on your well-deserved promotion”.

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Edgar Howell appointed as Deputy Secretary

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Turks and Caicos, November 2, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Edgar Howell as the new Deputy Secretary within the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture.

Mr. Howell brings a rich educational background, holding an Associates Degree in Biology from the College of the Bahamas (now the University of the Bahamas), a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology and Biochemistry from the University of the West Indies, and a Master’s Degree with distinction in Education Management. He embodies the philosophy that “Education is a lifelong journey,” continually pursuing professional development opportunities that enhance his skills and benefit his responsibilities.

Most recently, Mr. Howell served as Director of Education for fifteen years, following a five-year tenure as Deputy Director of Education. His extensive experience also includes four years of teaching Math, Chemistry, and Integrated Science at Clement Howell High School and one year as Head Teacher at Oseta Jolly Primary School.

Mr. Edgar Howell shared his thoughts on his new role, “Stephen Covey advised – ‘You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage—pleasantly, smilingly, non-apologetically, to say ‘no’ to other things. And the way you do that is by having a bigger ‘yes’ burning inside.’ I accepted that my bigger yes is to nation-building and focused on education and families. While this appointment as Deputy Permanent Secretary includes wider TCIG responsibilities, my values of Faith, Family, Patriotism, and Stewardship keep my bigger yes well aligned. My parents instilled a belief that ‘a charge to keep have I, a God to glorify…’ As always, I lean on the promise of Isaiah 41:10 – ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

E. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service expressed her confidence in Mr. Howell’s capabilities, stating, “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Howell on his new appointment. His unwavering dedication to the education sector over many years, coupled with his passion for nurturing the potential of our youth, is truly commendable. We eagerly look forward to the contributions he will further bring to our educational initiatives and the positive impact he will make in fostering the development of our community and the bright future of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Congratulations, Mr Howell, on your well-deserved promotion.”

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