TCI News
Opposition Leader responds to Throne Speech 11 days later; says PDM Govt plan puts TCI in ‘deep doo doo’
#GrandTurk, Turks and Caicos Islands – July 3, 2018 – The Leader of the Opposition business in the Turks and Caicos House of Assembly, nearly two weeks after the official Opening of Parliament, has finally delivered his response to the Speech from the Throne which was since Monday June 18 delivered by the Governor on behalf of the PDM Administration. 
Hon. Washington Misick on Friday June 29 fired back with an over one hour long response encompassing a number of charges against the government administration, including an agenda change on June 18 which broke tradition and delayed his response to the Throne Speech.
“I believe it is incumbent upon us as honourable people to follow tradition to the extent that it doesn’t usurp the rights of anyone. And so, Mr. Speaker In most parliament the State Opening features the Speech from the Throne in the morning, and in the afternoon the House resumes and responds with the address in reply debate. In the Turks and Caicos, it has been the tradition for the Leader of the Opposition to reply immediately and I was prepared to do so – prepared or not. While the Constitution Mr. Speaker, gives the Premier the authority as the Leader of Government business the right to alter the Order Paper it is against the spirit of the Constitution or the Standing Order to lightly dispense with long established parliamentary practice for no apparent good reason.”
Just before the comment, there was a verbal wrangle over what was said and what was meant in a jab given by Premier Sharlene Robinson on House Opening day, which the Opposition Leader said gave an impression that she was treated similarly when Rufus Ewing was country leader. Misick denied that ever being the case.
Opposition Leader Washington Misick believes there was no legitimate reason for him being denied his response to the Throne Speech on the same day as it was given. The PNP Leader also surmised that the PDM Government has not presented a recovery budget, as touted and has no legislative agenda.
The fifth All Island Member announced that the PNP Opposition would support a change, which makes it permanently mandatory for the response from the Opposition Leader to the Speech from the Throne be made on the same day.
“Mr. Speaker it is your duty to protect the right of the minority and history will judge your speakership largely based on society perception of fairness in doing this… it would be acceptable to this side of the House, going forward, and I suggest Mr. Speaker, that the House establish the practice that the reply to the Throne Speech be made in the afternoon of the day that the Speech is delivered.”
Misick said his suggested agenda gives any Opposition Leader the time required to prepare a fact-based rebuttal to the Speech from the Throne.
“Having read the Throne Speech and having glanced quickly over the estimates of expenditure and revenue, the Budget; I would contend that contrary to pronouncements in the Throne Speech and also the pronouncements in the Budget Booklet itself… I contend that this is not a recovery budget whatsoever…”
Hon Washington Misick, in the midst of a humourous analogy, called the plans of the sitting Government, empty.
“This budget is quite vacuous, the Speech from the Throne is vacuous…” the LOO ended his opening remarks with the punchline of the joke, “Mr. Speaker the future, if this (Budget and Throne Speech) is what we have to depend on, is in deep do-do.”
Specifically, the Opposition Leader cited that the Throne Speech and the Budget Estimates show inconsistencies and makes ‘bogus claims’.
“Regrettably there is little that is specific, measurable or time bound but worst of all Mr. Speaker, a review of the Estimates quickly reveal the lack of financial provisions for most of the vague promises spoken to in the Speech from the Throne.”
Contributions on the Throne Speech continued into Friday.
Education
Celebrating Progress in Literacy: Join Us in Exploring the Innovative S.P.I.R.E. Reading Intervention Programme
PRESS RELEASE
THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH AND SPORTS
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands: As we wrap up the vibrant celebrations of Education Week 2025, we invite you to join us on an inspiring journey! Get ready to explore the groundbreaking S.P.I.R.E. (Specialised Programme Individualising Reading Excellence) Reading Intervention Programme, an innovative initiative that has already made a significant impact in seven public schools since its rollout in August 2023 and 2024. Now in its fourth edition, (EPS Learning Publishing) the programme introduces Sounds Sensible, a powerful foundational component designed to enhance literacy through research-backed strategies. Partner with us as we unlock the door to literacy together and create new opportunities for our students and teachers!
S.P.I.R.E. is an evidence-based reading intervention program rooted in the Science of Reading and Orton-Gillingham practices. It offers a 10-step, 45-minute teacher-led lesson structure that systematically covers phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, oral and listening skills, decoding, vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency, reinforcing all stages of reading development. The programme offers thorough assessments for concept mastery. Students are individually assessed using the S.P.I.R.E. Placement Assessment to determine their appropriate instructional level, along with Pre- and Post-Level Tests to measure mastery of all level concepts. Additional assessments include Mid-Level Tests, Concept Assessments, and Concept Mastery Fluency evaluations.
In June and August 2023, Grades 1 to 3 teachers participated in virtual and in-person training on S.P.I.R.E., facilitated by EPS Learning trainers and led by Dr. Keran Williams, whose expertise is invaluable as we work together to support our students’ reading development. This collaborative training effort aims to ensure that our teachers are fully prepared to deliver the program with confidence and effectiveness.
Teachers addressed parental concerns by highlighting the difference between simply calling words and truly comprehending texts. They explained that SPIRE not only boosts basic reading skills but also enhances critical thinking.
A key strategy involved implementing a structured scheduling system that grouped students by reading levels. Each morning, students spent at least an hour with a trained SPIRE teacher. Comprehensive assessments at the beginning of the year and periodically thereafter helped identify reading levels. Using SPIRE resources, teachers provided differentiated instruction based on students’ strengths and weaknesses. This approach improved reading outcomes and fostered a strong sense of community within the schools.
We are thrilled to highlight the dedication of our teachers who embraced the recent programme aimed at building a collaborative network. They took the initiative to connect with one another, enhancing support for their students, parents, and fellow colleagues. Together, we are
strengthening our educational community and paving the way for greater student success. Thank you for your hard work, and special thanks to our principals, vice principals, and parents for your unwavering commitment!
We would like to highlight the outstanding performance of Daniela Carroll from Ianthe Pratt Primary School. Under the guidance of Education Officers – Dr. Keran Williams, Sarah Kennedy and Heidy Williams – Daniela took on the challenge of leading this initiative with enthusiasm. Her passion for education and determination to make a difference were crucial as she facilitated three invaluable refresher workshops across Providenciales, Grand Turk, and North Caicos.
In conclusion, SPIRE’s transformative journey has been remarkable. Through strategic scheduling and targeted instruction, we’ve improved literacy education and fostered an inclusive environment for all students. Our timely support has led to significant gains in reading skills, boosting confidence and enthusiasm. Together, we’re building a brighter future for every child to reach their potential and embrace literacy. Let’s keep the momentum, celebrate our successes, and continue fostering a love for reading in every student!
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