TCI News
ScotiaBank Grace Bay closed today, nationwide downsize begins
#Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday July 20, 2018 – When the doors were locked today at ScotiaBank Grace Bay, it signaled not only the close of another work week, but the complete closure of the branch in a controversial downsizing exercise which has only just begun. 
On June 7, 2018, ScotiaBank confirmed that a format being mimicked region wide by the financial institution will dramatically alter operations in the TCI. Three branches will merge to become one, and that means Grand Turk will – in just over two months- also lose its branch.
From June 7 media release: “The current Head Office at ScotiaCentre, 88 Cherokee Rd Providenciales, which currently houses the Retail Branch, Corporate & Commercial Banking and the Managing Director’s Offices, will become the new home for the full suite of services. As the bank undergoes these changes to align with the regional format, the Grace Bay and Grand Turk operations will ultimately consolidate into the ScotiaCentre facility. The consolidation of the Grace Bay Branch will take effect on July 20, 2018 with Grand Turk Branch following on September 28, 2018. All banking operations will remain business as usual until this time.”
The announcement resulted in masses of customers flocking to the bank branches; the fear of a complete closure with customers’ deposits was the motivation of the rush.
ScotiaBank tried to assuage feelings of alarm, but as news of the decision spread to the Turks and Caicos community, there was furious backlash.
Comments made by the public when Magnetic Media posted news of the closure on June 7, 2018:
“Grand Turk always getting the short end of the stick… apparently ScotiaBank is closing, everything that I have is tied up in that bank. I hate online banking because sometimes you need to go to the bank and speak to officers of the bank. Calling Customer Service here in Grand Turk or in Provo is not fruitful, so that means that if I really need to do business, I will have to pay a hundred dollars to go to the Provo branch…”
“Line are always super long at both locations (especially Leeward Highway)… what a fabulous idea to just consolidate into one; jokes!”
“You’ve got to be kidding me.”
“Banking will be worse than it already is. Automatic transfer to your employees should be mandatory.”
“Everyone is concerned and commenting on long lines in Provo. Imagine how the customers in Grand Turk and South Caicos will manage without a bank!!!! SMH”
Another writer, reacting to the news simply wrote:
“Oh crap!”
Still ScotiaBank is forging ahead with its plan for a consolidated location with more services, it says. By the final Friday in September, the Grand Turk branch is due to close its doors for good and residents are hoping for a change of heart. It seems unlikely.
From June 7 media release: “We are confident that this move will support the overall objectives of the Bank, and promote the long-term sustainability of Scotiabank in the Turks & Caicos Islands.” commented Curtis Knight, Acting Country Manager, Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. “We appreciate the loyalty of our customers and commit to working with them to ensure a smooth transition. We look forward to serving them at the ScotiaCentre.”
***MEDIA RELEASE***
July 23rd, 2024.
Around 10:59 am, the Police Control Room received a call of gunshots at a location along the Millennium Highway, Providenciales.
Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force were dispatched and, based on preliminary investigations, were told that the occupant (s) of a red Suzuki Swift was at a business place when another car pulled alongside it, and the occupants started shooting.
The driver of the Swift drove off while the other unidentified vehicle sped off in a separate direction. 
Officers found the Swift abandoned near Miracle Close, Blue Hills, shortly after.
Based on investigations, no injuries were reported.
This remains an active investigation.
The RT&CIPF is asking anyone with information or CCTV footage of the shooting that may assist the police with enquiries to contact 911, the closest police station, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 and anonymously give any information.
Additionally, persons are being asked to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app.
***MEDIA RELEASE***
July 23rd, 2024.
There are twelve new officers within the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
The officers—Ronn James, Ernie Henry, Aron Charlery, Andrew Ottley, Emmanuel Dabreo, Damion Clarke, Jeffrey Kaye, Roan Waugh, Shan Livermore, Kemar Chambers, Michael Campbell, and Ajay Budhai—took an oath to protect and serve the citizens of the
Turks and Caicos Islands yesterday (July 22nd) afternoon at Police Headquarters, Providenciales.
Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin, who administered the officers’ oath, said, “Thank you for choosing the TCI. It will not be a bed of roses. Policing requires hard work, and you ensure our communities are safe. Your arrival was anticipated and highly overdue.
“You are now officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, and you are committed to the safety of the people of these archipelagoes. We must lead by example and not let our guard down. Stand firm on the foundation of our motto- Service With Pride and Integrity. Integrity is doing the right thing in the absence of anyone watching.”
The President of the Christian Council, Pastor Wilbert Jennings, delivered the opening prayer and told officers to always call on God in
their time of need.
Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams, Assistant Commissioner Kendall Grant, acting Assistant Commissioner Mat Newton, Chairman of the Police Welfare Association Sgt. Jepson Victor and Human Resources Manager Rex Swann also attended the ceremony.
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