TCI: Press Statement from Hon. Michael E. Misick

#Providenciales, June 7, 2018 – Turks and Caicos –

Press statement by:

Hon. Michael. E. Misick

Former Premier

Turks and Caicos Islands

On the Closure of Scotia Bank office in Grand Turk and Grace Bay Branch.

The shocking news that the Bank of Nova Scotia will be closing its door in the Nations Capital and the Grace bay branch has major implications for the Turks and Caicos economy. For one it means a significant number of persons working in both location will be out of work.  My heart goes out to them and their families.  It is already tough for Turks and Caicos Islanders to make ends meet as most of us is living pay check to pay check.

It is also an indication that in-spite of other pronouncement by the government of growth the economy is in fact  shrinking.

While the government may not be able to stop Scotia bank from closing they can ensure that the branch that remains open operate for the benefit of Turks and Caicos  Islanders.

As a result of this closure and the amount of Turks  and Caicos Islanders that will be put out of work the Government should immediately cancel all the work permits for non Turks and Caicos Islanders that is working at Scotia Bank and insist that only Turks and Caicos Islanders be employ.

It is time that we ensure that certain position especially management positions in the private sector and the Government sector is held by Turks and Caicos Islanders.

For to long we allow persons and company to act in their best interested with no regard for the interested of our country and its people. This has to stop and we have to use the power and political force we have at our disposal to stop it.

Like the implementation of the 100 percent service charge this can be done with a stroke of the Pen.

Leadership is not easy and it requires tough decision. It’s time that the Premier and her Government Lead and take tough decisions that is in the best interested of Turks and Caicos Islands without fear or favor.

Unless positive Action is taken To protect our country and its people this will be only the start of selfish actions take by business in their best interest alone without regard for our National interest.