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TCI: Premier Delivers Remarks at the Caribbean Federation of Welfare Associations

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#TurksandCaicos, May 22, 2018 – Providenciales – Opening with light humor and reflecting on their Theme “Fusing Ideas to Promote Standards and Unity in Regional Law Enforcement,” Premier Robinson shared a story of Caribbean nationals living in the UK and how fusing ideas, agreeing standards and sticking together achieve the outcome they all wanted.

See Highlights of Her Remarks Below:

I wish at the outset to welcome you to the Turks and Caicos Islands and trust that these days together be truly productive ones as you no doubt review your last year against your Organisations Vision and Objectives and that you are enthused and excited to take on a near year.

Until I received this Invitation, admittedly I was unaware of the Organisation.  I researched your Website and saw where you were formed some years ago in the Bahamas by 9 countries.  Your vision statement and objectives are noble but it must be more than that: it must be live and active.

Policing is a noble profession and you may be right up there with politicians who are needed but are more abused by those they are charged to take care of than any one else. Feelings of under-appreciation, in a too often thankless job, frustrated sometimes by the same Organisation we are a part of but expected to solve problems without the people the greatest partners we can both have.  Too many are silent when things go right and whilst you do not work for praises, you think it would be good every now and then to hear “thank you”, thank you for the sacrifices you make, what you expose your family to. Job well done. Did I capture that right?

But what ought to keep you motivated? Love of job yes, but love of the same people…what a conundrum! Why? Because nothing is as satisfying as helping people, protecting people and doing your job well. Trust me, you are specially called to this field. Not any and everyone can be a Police. But just as important as the love of job and love of people, you, the Welfare Association ought to keep your Organisationmotivated. You must have your hand on the pulse of the Organisation: the members. They need your voice at the Table you sit. You must make it your business to know the collective as well as individual challenges and struggles. You must be allowed to do your job and you must meet with your members but also you must meet with your Governments. No Government wants or needs a Policing Body that is unhappy.

 

I note your mission:

Pillar 1: “To Collaboration and co-operation in the development of representation on behalf of its members”.

You here have taken on a more nobler role, that of helping your fellowmen by representing their cause. You must be bold in your role and carry out your duties without fear and favour. The welfare of persons who are charged with keeping the peace is not a slight thing. We need healthy (not just physically but mentally healthy) and happy Officers and that is in your hands.

But while the Welfare Association is responsible for the Police, it is equally important that each member realise that he/she is responsible for each other for whatever one of you do, reflects on all of you. Be honest, be fair and do your job.

I also charge those in higher ranks to do not be stumbling blocks or to be a reason why the local Associations are unable to represent effectively. It can only help the Organisation: boost morale and involvement with a greater flow of ideas from quarters who otherwise could not be heard. You must represent on issues even when they do not affect you.

Secondly I note that the second Pillar of your Mission is “To communicate with the ACCP, CARICOM and any other stake holders on matters brought to the attention of its executive and make recommendations”.

I challenge you to ensure that National Security – the threat to our region be a staple item on Caricom’s Agenda. You are in this respect the caretakers of our tourism product. The infiltration of weapons and unsavory characters is an issue for us all. Whilst we seem to all be moving towards APIS and AFIS, we as a region must continue to pool our best resources: our minds.

And whilst we speak of enforcement even in our local context as a region, we must see the best strategy will and must always be to rehabilitate and prevent. Let this also be at the forefront of your minds in your local representation and regional representation at the highest level of Caricom. A region moving together focused on the right things can be a powerful change.

We must feel you in our individual countries and region. You are vital whether you accept it, feel it or not.

I wish for you a fresh zeal as you work to strengthen your Organisation and each other and as you seek to strengthen each other and consequently your Organisation.

 

Hon Sharlene L Cartwright Robinson

Premier & Minister of Finance

The Turks and Caicos Islands

 

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News

GOVERNMENT REVIEWING TENDER AFTER GRAND TURK–SOUTH CAICOS FLIGHTS STOP

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Turks and Caicos Islands – March 10, 2026 – Commercial flights between Grand Turk and South Caicos have been temporarily discontinued, leaving residents without a direct air link between the two islands since March 1.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government confirmed the suspension in a statement Tuesday, explaining that the route — which operates under a government subsidy — is currently under review as officials reassess the tender process used to award the service.

The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Investment and Trade said the government is “working diligently to assess available options” to restore reliable air service between the islands as quickly as possible.

While the statement did not identify which airline had been operating the route, historically Caicos Express Airways and interCaribbean Airways have provided flights between South Caicos and Grand Turk using small twin-engine aircraft.

Officials acknowledged the disruption has caused concern among residents, noting that inter-island air travel is critical for access to essential services, business activity and government operations.

The government emphasized that the suspension does not affect flights between Grand Turk and Salt Cay, which continue to operate normally.

The review now underway will determine the next provider for the subsidized route. Authorities say the process must be conducted in a “fair, transparent and efficient manner” before service can resume.

For residents of the two islands, however, the immediate issue remains transportation — with many now forced to reroute through Providenciales or rely on limited sea travel until the air connection is restored.

Further updates are expected once the government completes its review and awards a new operating arrangement.

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

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News

Treasure Beach Village Opens at Beaches; Tourism Leaders Expect Surge in Bookings  

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands — A major new chapter in Caribbean tourism has begun in the Turks and Caicos Islands with the opening of Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos, a $150 million expansion expected to drive increased bookings, air arrivals and tourism earnings for the country.

The new oceanfront development, officially opened on February 28, adds 101 luxury multi-bedroom suites to the resort and introduces new dining, entertainment and family experiences designed to strengthen the destination’s position in the global luxury family vacation market.

Tourism officials and resort executives say the expansion is expected to generate greater demand for the destination, which in turn translates to more flights, more visitor spending and increased government revenue from hotel and tourism taxes.

The development is part of an ongoing investment strategy by Sandals Resorts International, which continues to expand the Beaches brand across the Caribbean.

Executive Chairman Adam Stewart described the opening as a powerful signal of confidence in the Turks and Caicos tourism product.

“This moment reflects a partnership between Sandals and the Turks and Caicos Islands that has been built over decades,” Stewart said during the opening celebrations. The new village, he added, builds on the brand’s reputation for creating multi-generational travel experiences where families reconnect and spend meaningful time together.

The resort expansion reinforces Beaches’ reputation as the world’s leading luxury all-inclusive resort brand for families, and Beaches Turks and Caicos continues to stand as one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious properties.

Government officials attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Tourism Minister Zhavargo Jolly, said the investment strengthens the destination’s international standing and highlights continued confidence in the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier tourism market.

The new village significantly expands the resort’s accommodation offerings with spacious ocean-view suites and high-end villas designed to host larger families and groups. The property now includes luxury options such as the CrystalSky four-bedroom beachfront villas and a multi-level Chairman’s Penthouse suite capable of accommodating up to ten guests.

Treasure Beach Village also introduces six new dining concepts, including the Pinta Food Hall with multiple global cuisine stations and Butch’s Island Chop House, a signature steakhouse previously exclusive to the Sandals brand.

Additional amenities include a 15,000-square-foot lagoon pool, waterslides and splash zones for children, a swim-up bar, and the brand’s first Starfish Cinema, a theatre designed for family movie nights.

Guests staying in the new village will also have access to the full Beaches Turks and Caicos experience, including 28 restaurants, the 45,000-square-foot Pirates Island Water Park, unlimited water sports and supervised children’s programmes.

Industry observers say the investment not only enhances the visitor experience but also strengthens Turks and Caicos’ reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after luxury destinations.

 

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

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Education

Message from Hon. Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports & Culture

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 6 March 2026: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”  Today, as we observe National Teachers’ Day, we pause to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our teachers and the dedicated leaders of our schools. Your commitment to shaping young minds, guiding character, and nurturing potential is a calling that reaches far beyond the classroom. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”  Your daily efforts reflect the truth and wisdom of these words.

We also extend sincere appreciation to the leaders of our schools whose vision, guidance, and steady leadership create environments where both teachers and students can flourish. Your role in supporting educators and maintaining strong, positive learning communities is invaluable to the continued progress of our education system.

Teaching is not without its challenges. Yet, even in moments of stress and difficulty, our teachers continue to demonstrate genuine love, patience, and concern for their students. For this, we are deeply grateful. Your compassion, encouragement, and dedication help our children feel seen, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential. Truly, to teach is indeed to touch lives forever.

Education is strongest when it is supported by partnership. We must also recognize the important role of parents and families in the success of our children. When schools and homes work together, the results are powerful. As we often say, when parents lead, children succeed. This shared commitment creates a strong foundation for learning and growth.

As a Department and Ministry of Education, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting our teachers and school leaders. We will continue to invest in meaningful professional development, provide the resources necessary for effective teaching and learning, and strengthen the systems that empower educators to thrive in their profession. Your work matters deeply, and we remain dedicated to ensuring you have the support needed to continue making a lasting difference.

On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I thank you. Thank you for your dedication, your resilience, your leadership, and for the love and care you show to our children each and every day. Today we celebrate you and the incredible impact you have on our nation’s future.

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