TCI Airports Authority Press Release: Grand Turk Firemen Strike

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands – Friday, March 23, 2018 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) along with a representative of the TCIAA Board of Directors and Ministers of the Government traveled to Grand Turk to meet with the Fire Service Officers to address the action taken by them today.

The Fire Service Team Members were informed that the meeting will be held in the Departure Lounge of the JAGS McCartney International Airport. They were all invited to attend, yet they refused. Further attempts were made by the Executive Team to get the Fire Officers to attend the meeting, but unfortunately it was again without success.  The Fire Station Manager and his Assistant were present therefore the meeting proceeded with these individuals.  

During the meeting a number of topics were discussed based on the initial correspondence received. Each item was discussed in depth and the firemen present, voiced their concerns. The main issues arising from the meeting were, overtime pay and firemen accommodation. Both issues were resolved. Overtime pay was paid three days prior to the official payday, in addition the accommodation issue and all other matters raised were addressed.

The delay in the relocation of the Fire Service was due in part to the fire in the Control Tower as the location had to be used to temporarily accommodate Air Traffic Services to facilitate flight operations in Grand Turk.

The Airport Authority is working to restore safe flight operations in a timely manner and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.

All flights operations at JAGS McCartney International will resume in a timely manner.