TCI News

TCI Premier speaks to the nation, disagrees that British Governor not micro-managing public funds

Published

8 years ago

April 16, 2018

#GrandTurk, Turks and Caicos Islands – April 16, 2018 – The Premier of the TCI not only disagrees with the comment, by the Governor, that the UK is not micro-managing public money but explained that systems constitutionally entrenched to govern spending, dramatically slow down the pace for funds to be released on public projects.

Premier Sharlene Robinson said the Governor did not ‘lie’ to media when he met with them on Thursday, but that his statement was lop-sided, leaving out the position of the elected government.

“What the Governor has not said is that the UK has not engaged in micro-managing at its highest levels, but the Governor is involved in every process here and controls – a meaning of micro-managing – through Cabinet all decisions with the need for consensus, complete agreement of seven elected members and three un-elected members for anything to move forward.”

Premier Sharlene Robinson explained that it was reaction to a Magnetic Media article posted about the Governor’s comments from a press breakfast meeting which elicited her statement in defence of her administration. During the National Address on Monday over Radio Turks and Caicos, the country leader gave examples of how exhaustive – our word, not hers – is the process for projects.

“The Supplementary approved in February took over a month to secure. This was necessary because the constitution does not allow TCIG to run a deficit budget without its approval. The Supplementary which was debated by the House was a reduction Supplementary, as we could not spend as usual due to our fallen revenues. The House of Assembly had to approve this and following the storms, the projects agreed in March 2017 had shifted in priority and headlining for this revised priority was school repairs and NHIB support.”

The Premier continued with acknowledgement of comments from the PNP Opposition that the monies for hurricane recovery clean up was late. In the address, Premier Robinson agreed that it was late in the budget year but added that her team felt it the most proactive move given the system.

“As it was the end of the year much more could not be achieved under the procurement process which required six weeks for invitation to tenders and following approvals for business cases and even after, tenders or bids are received there was an evaluation stage that has to be undertaken.” Add to this it was exposed that in the space of 16-months of her administration, the UK has been asked three times by Premier Robinson to take over the hefty $10m per year SIPT bill. The Special Investigation trial was instituted under the British since 2009 and has been reported to have significantly fattened the coffers of attorneys working the expensive case against former country leaders including ex-Premier and former PNP Leader, Michael Misick.

“What the Governor has not said is that on three separate occasions: twice to London and more recently directly to him, I have had the need to raise the high and continuing annual costs of $9.1m to cover SIPT costs with $5m for legal aid and $4m for SIPT’s Team. TCIG would be able to do much more if we had access to this near $10m annually and I have suggested to the UK that should the UK assume these responsibilities and if done, the TCIG would be able to address areas of its interests, the Governors interests and critical areas also identified by the locally elected government.”

Last Thursday the Governor told media that the UK has released much of its hooks when it comes to spending since the nullification of the Chief Financial Officer. HE Dr. John Freeman said the British FCO would have understood even a deficit budget given the extremities brought by Hurricanes Irma and Maria last September. But the Premier said her Government has its reasons for not rushing to a Deficit Budget; being chiefly focused, she noted, on keeping the British involvement in TCI money matters at bay.

“Last year the Budget for the first time since the new stringent financial regulations did not have to be approved by the UK as in previous years. Any reserves/savings below the agreed cash level would see the UK having to approve the FSPS and the detailed Budget. What the Governor has not said is that there has been a call by his Office as to areas he wish to have funded and have already stated that the Budget can be difficult to agree even if our cash levels remain as is and there remains no need to submit the detailed Budget to the UK for scrutiny and approvals. He is still very much in the process and can, as with any decision of Cabinet, hinder or halt any process until he himself in full agreement.”

With both country leaders now on the record about TCIG money and how it flows, the issues which caused the questions and stinging commentaries to erupt remain unresolved and vexing to thousands of people.

Money, which is healthily in abundance in the Turks and Caicos public purse is still being spent too slowly or not at all as it relates to rebounding from the hurricanes, taking care of public and private relationships and enhancing critical public infrastructure.

However, to conclude her address to the Nation, Premier Hon. Sharlene Robinson expressed a strong final point and challenge to His Excellency: “The UK is involved every stage locally by the Governor’s role and so to say there is no micromanaging or local control is certainly incorrect. The current Governor, as many know nationally is involved at all levels even where neither of his predecessors has been under elected Government. Hence the perception out there that he is running the country. This is a perception he must feel compelled to correct by actions.”

News

Academy Eagles FC crowned Beaches Turks & Caicos sponsored Provo Men’s Premier League champions 2026

Published

1 week ago

May 13, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The Academy Eagles FC were crowned champions of the Beaches sponsored Men’s Provo Premier League after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over defending champions, SWA Sharks, at the Venetian Road football field.

In a match that featured a mix of youth and experienced players, the Academy Eagles eventually broke through late in the game when Jean Innocent found the back of the net in the 77th minute. Innocent doubled the lead in the 95th minute from the penalty spot to clinch the championship.

Academy Eagles head coach Aaron Lawrence expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance. “I applaud the team for their discipline throughout the season and their ability to stick to the plan heading into this game,” Lawrence shared, adding special praise for team captain Myherwens Varis for “following tactical instructions throughout the game.”

“This victory would not have been possible without the thoughtful support from our main sponsor, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. This is the second year running with this relationship. This has provided exposure for the semi-professional players and the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association,” Lawrence noted.

On the opposing sideline, SWA Sharks coach Jack Watson was modest in defeat. While he noted that his team executed their strategy well, he recognized the Eagles’ determination. “I congratulate the Eagles team for wanting the win more,” Watson said. “We played to the game plan, but I fault a lapse in judgment that gave up two goals.”

Beaches Turks and Caicos, returning for a second year of sponsoring the competition, expressed ongoing dedication to youth football in the islands. General Manager Deryk Meany shared his enthusiasm, “I am satisfied with the impact that the league is having on youth development throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and our resort’s involvement in fielding a team for the competition.” The final phase of the tournament now transitions to a knockout format among the eight participating clubs.

League executives also weighed in on the success of the season. Provo Premier League President, Phillip Baptiste, expressed his satisfaction with the league format and highlighted the significant progress made by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) over the course of the tournament.

“This is what true success looks like as corporate partners like Beaches Turks and Caicos resort joins forces with the TCIFA in providing an avenue for youth development and sports. While we are happy for the continued sponsorship, we are anticipating more support from other entities. This is not only a win for sports, it is a win for development here in the TCI,” Baptiste shared.

TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie echoed these positive sentiments, pointing to the league’s development as an avenue for showcasing local talent on a broader stage. “Our team continues to learn as they work on developing talents with the youth players, as well as providing a broader marketing avenue for the league to be seen internationally with FIFA+ streaming,” Ritchie said.

He added, “the TCIFA commends the growth of the coaching staff involved in the league and looks forward to further enhancing the competition to make them more competitive in the Caribbean leagues.”

Beaches FC and Cheshire Hall FC have both punched their tickets for the first two spots in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Teachers’ Young Strikers and 5-0 thrashing of Provo United respectively in the first two quarter finals.

News

Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

Published

1 week ago

May 13, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The French Village main stage at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort was transformed into a dazzling beacon of green and gold as the resort celebrated its highest achievers. Under the inspiring banner of “One Team, One Vision, Endless Achievements,” the annual Prestige Awards recently closed the chapter on an exceptional 2025.

More than 120 nominees across twelve distinct categories walked the red carpet, greeted by flashing cameras and the cheering of their peers. The evening was laced with vibrant entertainment that kept the energy high between award presentations. Attendees were also treated to an exquisite five-course menu, carefully curated to match the prestige of the occasion and celebrate the rich culinary talent present at the resort.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to operate one of the premier family resorts in the Caribbean. General Manager Deryk Meany took the stage to address the audience while reflecting on a year of resilience, innovation and unparalleled guest service.

“This is a celebratory milestone that as leaders we are happy to share with the stars of the hospitality industry,” Meany shared. “You have shown the world the true mettle of leadership and commitment here at Beaches Turks and Caicos.”

To further recognize unique contributions to the resort’s operational success, Meany personally distributed the General Manager’s Special Awards. These honours were bestowed upon Eric ‘Cookie’ Johnson from the kitchen, Harriet Beeput from administration, and Javier Sarita from the entertainment department for their exceptional behind-the-scenes dedication.

The climax of the evening featured the announcement of the resort’s most prestigious overarching awards. Felipe Luzardo Neira from the kitchen took home the MVP of the Year (Manager of the Year) award, while Chad Peterkin from engineering and maintenance was named All-Rounder of the Year (Supervisor of the Year). The loyalty & travel department proved their collective strength by securing the A-Team of the Year title.

Individual team members were also recognized for their ultimate service standards. Deandra Astwood from the front office earned the Platinum Team Member of the Year award. The highest individual honour, Diamond Team Member of the Year, was awarded to Javain Campbell from the restaurant department. Campbell used his moment in the spotlight to highlight the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and community outreach.

“This accolade is a testament to the commitment and teamwork within all the departments of the resort,” Campbell noted after receiving his award. “The opportunity to volunteer at different Sandals Foundation activities as well as be a mentor to other team members means the world to me. This achievement will allow me to do more in leadership as I have been tasked with representing the entire team here at the resort.”

The Prestige Awards ensured that every facet of the resort’s operations received proper recognition. From environmental sustainability to guest entertainment, the specific category winners showcased a wide array of talents:

Movers & Shakers was awarded to Katherine ‘Tinkerbell’ Jiminez from the entertainment department
Legendary Team Member was secured by Kadian Smith from the restaurant
Circle of Joy went to Emanie Jocelyn Seide from security and loss prevention
Earth Guardian was claimed by Bernard Florvil from engineering and maintenance
Sandals Foundation Sentinel was awarded to Tanya Swann from administration
Standing Ovation Award was proudly accepted by Richard Myers from the laundry team
Money Maker Award went to Teesha McCallum-Hamilton from the resort shop
Heart of the House Hotel Manager’s Award was presented to Carlton Biggs from stewarding department
People’s Choice Award was won by Claire Ann Balones from the off site department
Pacesetter Award was given to Kassandra Henry from accounts & cost control
Founder’s Circle Award was claimed by Susan Outten from the restaurant

As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the rigorous selection process that led to the evening’s celebrations. The Prestige Awards do not merely look at a single moment of excellence, but rather evaluate a full twelve months of unwavering dedication to the guest experience. Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby highlighted the rewarding journey these team members took to reach the main stage.

“This event is a culmination of a number of activities for the resort’s leadership and the team members who have been exemplary and consistent throughout the year,” Coleby shared. “Congratulations are in order for each nominee as they have been crowned winners for the different months of 2025.”

With the trophies distributed and the 2025 season officially wrapped, the staff at Beaches Turks and Caicos now look forward. Fueled by the “One Team, One Vision” mantra, these award winners are already setting the standard for another year of endless achievements.

Finance

TCI Financial Services Opens Debate on Cryptocurrency Rules

Published

1 week ago

May 12, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

Turks and Caicos, May 12, 2026 – A new era of digital finance regulation could be on the horizon for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as the Financial Services Commission moves to establish a legal framework for virtual assets and cryptocurrency-related businesses.

The TCI Financial Services Commission on Friday launched a public consultation on its proposed Virtual Assets Business Bill, 2026, legislation designed to regulate virtual asset service providers, stablecoin issuers and other digital asset activities operating in or from the territory.

Globally, governments and regulators have been racing to catch up with the rapid growth of digital currencies, blockchain technology and online financial platforms. Concerns over money laundering, cybercrime, fraud and the collapse of poorly regulated crypto exchanges have pushed jurisdictions to tighten oversight while still trying to attract financial innovation and investment.

The proposed TCI bill appears aimed at positioning the territory within that evolving international framework.

According to the FSC, the legislation is aligned with international standards and guidance from bodies including the Financial Action Task Force, International Organization of Securities Commissions and the Financial Stability Board.

The Commission said the bill would introduce a “comprehensive licensing, supervisory, prudential and enforcement framework” for the sector. The proposed law includes anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations, cyber resilience requirements, enforcement measures and even a regulatory sandbox intended to support innovation.

Among the notable features are proposed reserve and governance rules for stablecoins, which are digital currencies typically tied to traditional assets like the US dollar. The draft legislation also outlines exemptions for certain technology providers and closed-loop token systems.

The FSC said the consultation period is intended to gather public and industry feedback before the bill is submitted to Cabinet next month. Written submissions must be received by June 8, 2026.

The consultation paper and draft bill have been published on the FSC website for public review.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.