TCI: Illegal Sloops from Haiti

#UnitedKingdom, March 16, 2018 – London – The UK Government has been following with concern the recent dramatic increase in the number of illegal sloops reaching TCI from Haiti.  The UK government is considering immediate practical steps to help the Turks and Caicos Islands Government to deal with the situation including the possible deployment of a Royal Navy vessel to carry out maritime patrols and aerial surveillance.  The UK government is also in discussion with regional partners about possible assistance that can be deployed quickly to address the situation.

Additionally, the UK Government is funding the cost of the upgrades to the TCI coastal radar at a cost of over $500,000.  The radar equipment and technicians have already arrived in TCI and work is underway.

Commenting on the situation, Her Excellency the Acting Governor, Mrs Anya Williams, said “I have been in frequent, active dialogue with the Governor while on leave in the UK and with the TCI Government, the police and border control officials over the past week on the country’s response to this worrying recent surge in the number of illegal sloops from Haiti.  I have alerted the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London to these developments and requested assistance from the UK Government to help TCI deal with the problem.  I am glad that the UK Government is considering as matter of urgency immediate measures that will help us tackle the problem.”

Press Release:  TCI Governor’s Office