A Statement from Sandals Resorts International

#Providenciales, July 20, 2018 – Turks and Caicos – Sandals Resorts International takes note of recent comments by the Leader of the Opposition in the Turks and Caicos Mr. Washington Misick, who was reported in the TCI Weekly News as saying the construction of a Fish Fry adjacent to the Key West Village of Beaches Resort was somehow halted because of the government ‘bending to the demands of the big man in Jamaica’, a reference to Chairman of Sandals the Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart.

We are unclear of what Mr. Misick is trying to insinuate, because it is no secret that Sandals did raise genuine concerns about the development being just across the road from the resort, although we have received no official communication in line with what he has said.

The fact is that the proximity of such an event would cause major disruption for guests who would have invested in a vacation to the Turks and Caicos, because as was reported in the very same article, residents close to the where the Fish Fry now takes place have complained vociferously about the loud music, and the mess that is left in the wake of the event.

If that is the case there, then what does the Hon. Opposition Leader think will happen when you move it just across the road from the hotel?

We are surprised that such a statement would come from a gentleman who is very much aware of the importance of tourism to the economy, and how equally important it is for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that we provide the very best experience for the guests who choose the TCI.

The fact is there are certain minimum requirements needed if you want to have a luxury five-star resort and if you want it to operate successfully.  That is why it was written into our development agreement that there be a proximity limit outside and around the resort with respect to the construction of itinerant or fixed structures, as well as any vending.

It is fair to say we have delivered from our end and Beaches’ contribution to the economy of the Turks and Caicos is there for all to see. We are the largest tax payer, the leading employer and provider of training, and we are unmatched in terms of marketing and promoting the TCI product. A successful resort ultimately benefits all, including the several team members working with us who are citizens of the TCI.

We wish to make it very clear that Beaches Resort is in full support of any initiative the Government has for growth and development. Our approach has always been one of dialogue, as it was when Mr. Misick himself was in government. We will always do the right thing when it comes to those who visit and those who live in this beautiful place, and we sincerely hope that the Opposition Leader, a much respected gentleman in the industry, holds that same view.

Release: Sandals Resorts