Premier Robinson Remembers Country’s First Chief Minister and Only Named National Hero on His Death Anniversary

#TurksandCaicos, May 10, 2018 – Providenciales – Today 38 years ago, this country experienced one of its greatest losses when the news arrived to our Shores that our Beloved Chief Minister, The Right Excellent Hon JAGS McCartney had died in a plane crash while away on official business.  Having only ushered in Ministerial Government just approximately four short years before, and having voted in its first Chief Minister, it was a devastating blow to our country when this sad news was received.

The then youngest elected Leader in the Caribbean had already championed causes on behalf of his people amidst the challenges of being the first elected to Office under a new Constitution.  He will forever be remembered for the humble man that he was and for his efforts to ensure that TC Islanders enjoyed unfettered access to positions (of authority) and places.  He would always be remembered for his ability to dialogue with men and women of high offices and of lowly estate and for his love and care for all men.

Amidst the criticism from those who did not capture his vision and the challenges presented by those who understood it but did not wish to see it realized, he in his short life time and in his short period as Leader of this country managed to make a difference and to leave his corner of the world better than he met it.

We continue to mourn his loss and honor his legacy who was taken away from us at the tender age of 35 years. Today 38 years later he continues to speak from the grave and we continue to call for the realisation of his dream which was for a united Turks and Caicos.

May his soul continue to rest in peace and may his legacy continue to be celebrated.

Hon Sharlene L Cartwright Robinson

Premier & Minister of Finance

The Turks and Caicos Islands