PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF

DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENCIES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 18 June 2025: The Turks and Caicos Islands participated in The Green Overseas (GO) Climate Change Resilience Community workshop, which was delivered in both English and French, was held from 19th – 23^rd May 2025 in St Barthélemy and Sint Maarten/Saint Martin.  This 5-day workshop brought together Environmental and Disaster Management Professionals from 15 Countries and Territories for Regional Collaboration on Climate Resilience and Risk Management Strategies.

As Climate Change accelerates and coastal threats intensify, Regional Experts are strategising to protect fragile ecosystems and communities.  This workshop featured presentations, discussions, and field visits aimed at strengthening local and regional capacity to better respond to climate-related coastal challenges.

Representing the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) were Mr. Angelo Duncan, Hazard Mitigation and GIS Manager from the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME), and Ms. Britney Simmons, Land Use Planner from The Planning Department.  Both representatives contributed to discussions on national adaptation strategies and shared insights from TCI.

A highlight of the discussions was the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in monitoring coral health, shoreline erosion, and habitat loss. By harnessing GIS technology, experts can make data-driven decisions to prioritise conservation efforts and enhance resilience-building strategies.

“At this workshop, it became evident that other Overseas Territories face unique, yet similarly pressing, environmental challenges,” said Angelo Duncan, Hazard Mitigation and GIS Manager. “The exchange of knowledge and strategic approaches among territories has strengthened our collective commitment to protecting and raising awareness for these vital environments. By continuing to share innovations and best practices, we move closer to a more resilient and sustainable future for all of our islands.”

Participants also visited key coastal sites in St. Martin and Saint Barthélemy, observing firsthand nature-based mitigation techniques and community-driven resilience efforts, that showcased innovative solutions that can be adapted in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The event significantly expanded the GO Climate Change Resilience network, promoting ongoing collaboration across the region.

Countries and Territories in Attendance:
Turks and Caicos Islands, Anguilla, Bermuda, Curaçao, St. Martin, Falkland Islands, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, St. Pierre, British Virgin Islands, Bonaire, Tahiti, Tristan da Cunha, Aruba, and Saba.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

1st insert: Angelo Duncan (Center), Britney Simmons (Right) at Sint Maarten National Flag Pole overlooking the city.

2nd insert: Britney Simmons Hazard Mitigation Planning Simulation

Turks and Caicos Islands, June 19, 2025 –Shining Stars Preparatory School students got an inspiring introduction to the world of finance during a recent visit to CIBC Caribbean. Adorned in costumes, the future professionals were welcomed by the bank in recognition of the school’s annual career day.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                The visit formed part of CIBC Caribbean’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and education. With bright eyes and inquisitive minds, the students met with members of the Digital Banking, Personal and Business Banking (PBB) Sales, and Corporate Banking Support teams to learn more about the many career opportunities available within the financial services sector.

CIBC Caribbean Head of Country, Terrance Gibson, said, “At CIBC, we firmly believe that investing in our youth is investing in the future of TCI. Welcoming the students of Shining Stars Preparatory School into our space was not only a privilege, but a powerful reminder of why community engagement matters.”                                                                                                                                                                                                              The students were enthusiastic throughout the visit, eagerly asking questions and expressing keen interest in the daily operations of the bank. Their curiosity was met with thoughtful insights from CIBC Caribbean team members, who shared their personal journeys and professional experiences in banking.

As part of its broader community outreach, CIBC Caribbean has adopted Shining Stars Preparatory School. The bank has collaborated on a number of initiatives that promote learning, growth, and opportunity for young people.

Gibson added, “These bright young minds are full of potential, and our hope is that by opening our doors and sharing our knowledge, we have helped to spark interest in careers in banking, finance, and beyond. This relationship with Shining Stars speaks to our long-standing commitment to youth development and supporting the communities we serve.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force confirms that Haitian national Richardson Cherefaere has been sentenced to 16 months’ imprisonment by the Magistrates Court on 3 June 2025, following charges of Attempted Unlawful Entry and Returning to the Islands Contrary to a Deportation Order.

Cherefaere is a repeat immigration offender with a history of attempting to unlawfully re-enter the Turks and Caicos Islands. His first illegal entry occurred in 2019, and he was subsequently convicted and deported in January 2025 following his most recent attempt to re-enter the country. His continued disregard for immigration laws and deportation directives has resulted in a substantially longer custodial sentence.

In response, Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Services, states, “This significant sentence sends an unequivocal message: the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force will relentlessly pursue and prosecute anyone who deliberately defies our immigration laws and ignores deportation orders. We are unwavering in our commitment to secure our borders and uphold the rule of law with the full force it demands, ensuring justice is served every time.”

The public is strongly reminded that harbouring or facilitating the illegal entry of migrants is a serious criminal offense punishable by fines up to $20,000 and imprisonment for up to four years under the Immigration Ordinance. Anyone found in breach of these laws will face firm and immediate legal action.