Turks and Caicos, December 12, 2024 – As a community, we are witnessing the devastating consequences of a void that has gone unaddressed for far too long—the absence of an accessible and reliable public transportation system in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Recent headlines have brought to light the alarming risks our residents face daily, including the heartbreaking reality that many are forced to rely on unregulated and unsafe transportation options. This is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of public safety.

It is unacceptable that our young women, children, and other vulnerable members of society are left to navigate these precarious situations, placing their trust—and lives—in the hands of strangers. These conditions not only jeopardize their safety but also highlight a critical gap in our infrastructure that disproportionately affects those who rely on affordable and dependable transportation options to access education, employment, healthcare, and other essential services.

The reports of targeting and exploitation are a wake-up call for immediate action. As we move forward, we must prioritize the development of a robust public transportation system that serves all corners of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Such a system should be affordable, efficient, and, above all, safe. It is a fundamental service that can unite communities, reduce vulnerabilities, and promote equitable access to opportunities for every resident.

The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) has always stood for the empowerment and protection of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As a proud member of the PDM, I am committed to continuing this legacy by fighting for a modern, accessible public transportation system. The PDM understands that this is not just an infrastructure issue—it is a cornerstone of public safety, community development, and national progress.

As a leader and representative of the PDM, I will work tirelessly to ensure that this critical need is addressed. Together, we can implement solutions that protect our citizens, empower our communities, and build a stronger Turks and Caicos Islands for future generations.

The time for action is now. The PDM is ready to lead this charge because our people deserve better, and I will ensure that this issue remains at the forefront of the agenda until it is resolved. I ask for your vote on election day and to support this PDM Team to get the job done.

Audric Skippings

PDM ED6 Candidate

Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

Turks and Caicos, December 11, 2024 – “Today we gather at a defining moment in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands made even more meaningful as it coincides with International Human Rights Day,” the words H.E. Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam, TCI Governor used to set the stage for an auspicious ceremony.

With thanks to the Speaker of the House, Hon Gordon Burton, Her Excellency added, “This amended constitution is more than a legal framework, it is a reaffirmation of our shared humanity. It reminds us that a constitution is not static, it is a living covenant between a people and their ideals, adapting as society evolves to ensure no one is left behind.”

In a rare appearance at the House of Assembly, the governor reminded of the enormous cadre of people who contributed to the success of a constitution, which now more closely resembles and reflects the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It has been roughly 12 years since the 2011 Constitution Order was presented by London to the people of the TCI.  The culmination of a contentious process where islanders indisputably demonstrated their disdain for the document.  It had been vocally rejected, set ablaze and burned to ashes before being reported to the international community – from CARICOM to the United Nations – as “regressive”.

“As we sign this proclamation, we honour our nation’s past while embracing the promise of its future,” explained Daniel-Selveratnam.

The Amendment Order has now been accepted in bi-partisan fashion by members of the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly.  The gains were generally viewed as substantial and number at least 12, according to information recently communicated by the Turks and Caicos Islands Government.

“The Draft 2024 Order proposes several amendments to the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In particular, it –

• changes the name of the House of Assembly to Parliament and Ordinance to Law;
• with effect from the next dissolution of the Parliament, changes the maximum Parliamentary term from four to five years;
• abolishes appointed members of Parliament other than the Attorney General;
• clarifies that the Turks and Caicos Islands Cabinet has autonomous capacity with respect to domestic affairs; sets out matters relating to external affairs that the Governor must delegate;
• makes provision for the Governor to appoint a greater number of Ministers than the six normally permitted in addition to the Premier, with the total cap being higher than that brought in by the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution (Amendment) Order 2021;
• establishes several new bodies: a Cabinet Office and a Cabinet Secretary, a Police and Defence Service Commission, an International Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution and provides that a Constitutional Commission may be Established;
• makes constitutional provision for some entities and items already in existence: the National Security Council, the TCI Regiment and the National Crest;
• removes the regulation of international financial services from the Governor’s special responsibilities and establishes an independent body for the regulation of financial services;
• provides a power for a referendum to be held on matters of national importance;
• makes amendments to the composition of the Electoral District Boundary Commission and to its functions;
• revokes the Turks and Caicos Islands (Electoral District Boundary Commission) Order 2011.

Signing the proclamation were the Governor, Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam; Hon Washington Misick, TCI Premier and Hon Edwin Astwood, Leader of the Opposition.

Members of the House passed the Amendments on Thursday October 17, 2024.  The Order took effect in early November.

“On International Human Rights Day, let us be reminded that the pursuit of justice and freedom is a universal endeavour.  Let this moment inspire us to continue striving for a democracy that reflects the highest aspirations of its people.  A nation guided not by power, but by principles.

Together we have demonstrated that Constitutional Reform is a profound act of strength and renewal.”

Turks and Caicos, December 11, 2024

The Minister’s response to my article highlighting his misleading practices is a diversion that fails to clarify the facts. Hon. Minister, while you admit the billboard represents a concept, you have not refuted that the terminal is not truly “coming soon” or provided evidence, such as post-Cabinet statements, to prove it has been approved or budgeted for by Cabinet.

I challenge you and Cabinet to produce post-Cabinet minutes showing that the Clifford Gardiner International Airport terminal concept has been approved for construction and officially cleared for promotion as imminent. Without this, your actions remain deceptive and misleading to the good people of North and Middle Caicos and the wider TCI.

Under the former PDM administration, development agreements were pursued to redevelop North Caicos. Your government continued negotiations with one of the two firms we were in negotiations with up until last year when demands from your side stalled progress. Additionally, it was the PNP administration that closed North and Middle Caicos airports following the consolidation of Inter-Island and SkyKing Airlines, and not the PDM, as inferred.

Hon. Minister, if you are not attempting to deceive, show the public the post-Cabinet statements to substantiate your claims, or admit the truth behind this billboard’s premature installation only weeks before the next general election.

Our people deserve the whole truth from you, Hon. Minister, and the Cabinet in this matter.

TCI, Your Future is Our Priority. For Accountability, Transparency, and Good Governance Vote PDM, All the Way!