Connect with us

TCI News

Tomorrow, major crackdown on illegal jitneys begins with policy change, TCI Premier says it opens door to lucrative business

Published

on

Photo by Deandrea Hamilton

The Premier says getting a bicycle is not a bad idea when it comes to getting around the island, but shared that the interest from people to become licensed for legal jitney operation or Community Cabs as the PDM Administration has dubbed them, is high and there should be sufficient public transportation once the industry is legalized.

“I assure you there will be persons who are prepared to enter that, and I think people need to understand that jitneys make way more than taxi drivers (sometimes) and so we expect entrants and that is why it is important to have that category.  Persons can make that investment before we crack down completely on those who are illegal in the industry.  It very, very lucrative.”   

The matter of private cars being used to fill the gaping hole created by a lack of public transportation for the resident population has been a burning one for the Hon Sharlene Robinson since before she was premier of the country.  Reports of rapes, sexual attacks, violent fights, robberies, unhealthy and unsafe conditions when using the jitneys have all given rise to many debates, elicited umpteen promises and brought on deep and real fear about catching the unregistered, albeit convenient modes of transport.

“On Wednesday, we hope to have the amendments to the Road safety ordinance that will look to legalise the transportation system for the provision of community cabs or what we call jitneys.  Not regularizing but legalizing that industry and making sure that legal entrants are given time to enter before strict enforcement goes on in that area.”

At this time, and in light of a recent attack where a jitney passenger was forced to jump from a moving vehicle in fear of her life, the Premier says it is risky business riding the illegal jitney.   

“…it is going to make it safer; it is going to make it legal, which means persons will have to register as drivers,”  the Premier said her talks with the Minister of Home Affairs, Delroy Williams has laid out some must haves for the Community Cabs to work.  “…where we jump into taxis for example in the United States a picture ID has to be displayed, but also we would have the license plate numbers, we are doing this all in sync with our CCTV program as well as what is to come in this year’s budget, is to recreate a better road safety license plate program and you will see software coming for that as well where you would be able to match license plate numbers to individuals.  That is all in the same pot.”

Tomorrow, when Cabinet meets, the matter is hoped to make the agenda and to be discussed as this new category of public service driver would be well on its way to being legally created.  It was explained that illegal jitney drivers now may not be qualified to drive the community cabs in future.    

“Once we are able to create a legal category, not regularize because some of the drivers will not qualify, some of the vehicles will not qualify so I want to make sure we understand that we are legalising the industry, the sector,” said the Premier last Thursday.

The Premier assured that it is not going to be rushed and the plan is going to be considerate of the role the current system does play.

“…which is why we are going to allow legal entrants before the enforcement happens. We are going to allow people to legally enter and provide that legal form (of transportation) before we crackdown on what we know to be a necessary form of transportation”

The announcement came in a Border Control press conference held jointly by the Premier and Deputy Premier, Sean Astwood last Thursday where the nation was given an update.

The country learned of the financial toll of illegal immigration on the islands for the past five years, the support being lent to the TCI from as far off as London and as nearby as The Bahamas and the multi-pronged initiative which includes cracking down on illegal construction and unearthing unathorised employment within the islands.  

Today, Minister of Home Affairs, Delroy Williams said the consultation process wrapped up after six months in December 2017.  The online Public Service Transportation Survey was electronically available to the general public and he said, the interest in the Community Cabs is high.

A warning was among the final points from Premier Robinson at the conclusion of Magnetic Media questions on the hot button issue.

“You’re taking a risk – especially with children and females in particular using these services.  You are taking a risk because it does not exist legally, which means we can’t trace drivers because we don’t know who they are.”

Magnetic Media is a Telly Award winning multi-media company specializing in creating compelling and socially uplifting TV and Radio broadcast programming as a means for advertising and public relations exposure for its clients.

News

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

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

News

Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Finance

TCI Financial Services Opens Debate on Cryptocurrency Rules 

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING