TCI News
TCI: Independent House member Connolly says PDM Government too inexperienced to manage the country
#Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos – July 30, 2018 – Money was not the problem for the PDM Administration; it was a lack of execution according to Hon Josephine Connolly, which resulted in a long list of un-dones.
The All Island member, who broke off from the PDM in January and is now counted as an independent Member of the House of Assembly, blasted the performance of the Premier and Finance Minister, Hon Sharlene Robinson in the last fiscal year.
“The money was there, Mr Speaker, it simply was not spent. Section 5 of the booklet gives a long sorry list of desperately needed capital projects that have not been started, not because there was no money, but because there was no execution. And, Mr Speaker, this was before the devastation of the two hurricanes. 
Connolly calls it under-spending and when questioned by Magnetic Media about what she believes is behind it, said: “I strongly believe that Our Ministers came into office without the experience of being involved with major capital projects. The procurement process is complicated and it requires skill and perseverance to ensure the capital projects start and get completed on time. What was needed, and is still needed, the ministers project managing the progress of all capital projects on a regular basis and working as a team to remove impediments. It requires leadership which so far has been sadly lacking.”
The sentiments are the general tone of all contributions by Connolly, who is vocally doubtful that the current government has what it takes to govern effectively.
To the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Connolly said, “I hope the Minister of Finance will be able to detail in her closing contribution the remedial actions she has taken within her government to ensure that the debacle of under spending in 2017/18 does not reoccur in 2018/19.”
The former PDM Minister of Education said in her contribution that, “I think, Mr Speaker, the people of this country were expecting a year when this government drives development and pushes up revenues for the benefit of all. The budget as presented by the Minister of Finance portrays a lack of confidence in her ability to drive that business growth.”
Hon Connolly, a businesswoman by profession said ignorance of best practices resulted in heftier costs to the public for the National Health Insurance Board and pointed to what she believes is a missed opportunity by the Robinson-led government.
“One looks after are health and one our comfort in old age. They are significant organizations and they have come in for some criticism in the January 2018 report on statutory bodies.
It is not clear to me Mr Speaker that any of the significant recommendations of that report have been accepted or included in this budget. For instance the recommendation that the administration of the NHIB should be merged with the NIB has been ignored.
The obvious savings that would have been made had this recommendation been followed in terms of office rental, investment in computer systems and combining the best practices are so obvious that I think that the House would be interested as to why these savings have been ignored by the Minister of Finance.
The failures of not using best practice are there for all to see. Last year Mr Speaker the NHIB was budgeted to receive from TCIG $23M… it actually needed $33M. Almost 50% higher than the budgeted amount. I was a little surprised that the appropriations committee did not ask the question “How can you be wrong by $11M last year and how do you know you are right this year?”
Connolly disagrees with the lack of scrutiny and does not support just upping spending for the Health Insurance Board.
“May I respectfully suggest that if the Minister of Finance wishes to get a handle on the Finances of the NHIB that they speed up the appointment of a CFO. I understand that the previous CFO left in June 2017 and 8 months later in February the published summary of the cabinet meeting referenced “progress on recruiting a CFO for NHIB”. Well one would hope that after 8 months some progress had been made!
I am not sure Mr Speaker why anyone is surprised at massive over budget of expenditure if the people meant to monitor the expenditure are not in place. Perhaps Mr Speaker the reason for the vacancy is that the salary outlined in the budget is not enough to attract the right candidate. The CFO will be responsible for a budget of over $68M. We need an experienced financial director with enough credibility to advise the board, introduce systems and control the expenditure in a fair and equitable manner. That expertise does not come cheap.”
The fifth all island member said the Appropriations Committee unearthed that there are 50 audit reports of Statutory Bodies outstanding; and that the NHIP had turned in no audit for three years.
Hon. Josephine Connolly blamed the Government for not ensuring accountability.
“It would be nice if the self-funding statutory bodies were up to date Mr Speaker, but the last published audited accounts on the NIB web-site is for the year ending March 31, 2013 , that is five years ago!
This is our pension money we have a right to know that our money is safe and secure and the NIB have an obligation to comply with the law.
The responsibility for the completion of these audits is the National Audit Office I appreciate that the Minister of Finance does not have power to direct the audit office as identified in section 52 of the Finance and Audit Ordinance. However the failure of the audit function cannot continue….. everyone has to be held to account….…. even the national Audit Office.”
Connolly also drew attention to the Center for Entrepreneurial Development, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police and the Ministry of Education among other areas of concern.
Most of the comments were made by Hon. Josephine Connolly during the 2018 Budget Debate in Grand Turk July 10-13, 2018.
Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working
in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.
The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.
A breakdown of those on board confirmed:
- 75 males (including two minors)
- 28 females (including two minors)
This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.
Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.
Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
TCI News
Invest Turks and Caicos Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Impact at 4th Annual General Meeting
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 19, 2025 – Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) proudly hosted its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, marking a historic milestone, under the theme ‘ Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Impact’.
The celebratory event brought together government officials, investors, developers, business leaders, and community stakeholders as the
agency reflected on ten years of strategic growth and outlined its vision for the next decade.
The meeting was called to order by Chairlady, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who welcomed the full house with energy and gratitude. She acknowledged the partnerships which have fuelled Invest TCI’s success over its first ten years. In her remarks, she stated, ‘This agency was created with a clear purpose, to attract sustainable investment that would strengthen our economy and open new doors for our people’.
The evening continued with a powerful address from Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development as cornerstones of the country’s future. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment, community-driven infrastructure, and balanced growth. Building on that vision, Her Excellency, Acting Governor Anya Williams reflected on how the landscape has shifted from TCI once seeking foreign investors to now being actively pursued. She emphasized that with this new dynamic, growth must remain sustainable, protect the environment, and deliver lasting benefits for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Delivering the agency’s annual performance report, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove outlined achievements during the 2024–2025 financial year. These included the first Youth Business Summit, the opening of a new office in Grand Turk, the launch of the Community Pop-Up Series, the approval of the Heritage Turks and Caicos Islander Investment Policy, and advancement of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy. She also reflected on a decade of accomplishments, noting how Invest TCI has expanded its reach, strengthened its impact, and positioned the islands for greater opportunity.
A Ten Years in Review video presentation followed, sparking applause and pride as it highlighted milestones in national development. The film set the stage for an invigorating panel discussion under the theme “The Next Horizon: Catalyzing Economic Development through Investment,” moderated by financial expert Mr. Drexwell Seymour.
The panel featured an extraordinary lineup: Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, former Premiers Hon. Galmo Williams and Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove, and youth leader Ms. Arielle Neely. The discussion highlighted not only the perspectives of national leaders but also the entrepreneurial achievements of the former Premiers, both of whom have successfully built businesses that continue to contribute to the Turks and Caicos economy. The presence of three seasoned leaders alongside Invest TCI’s chief executive and a dynamic youth voice captivated the audience, underscoring both the depth of experience and the promise of the next generation.
The discussion was focused on how investment can power sustainable growth and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key themes included sustainable development, innovation and technology, local business competitiveness, youth integration, and public-private collaboration. Panelists emphasized the need for robust legislative frameworks and compliance, while highlighting human capital development as the cornerstone of future progress. Ms. Neely added a compelling youth perspective, calling for measurable inclusion through Youth Impact data and innovative financing models to ensure young people are active stakeholders in shaping the economy.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Invest TCI also launched the Inaugural Developer Awards, created to recognize developers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive, responsible, and impactful development. The awards spotlighted projects that extended beyond commercial success to deliver meaningful community value.
Two award categories were introduced:
- Sustainability Trailblazer: Recognizing developers who lead in building sustainable legacies through infrastructure, cultural preservation, and enduring community partnerships.
- Community Impact Award: Honouring developers who have made the most visible social contributions through job creation, training, community programs, and philanthropy.
Submissions showcased initiatives such as recycling and composting programs, eliminating single-use plastics, landscaping with indigenous vegetation, and investments in renewable energy. Many also reflected consistent support for local charities, reinforcing the vision of development that uplifts both the economy and the community.
Nominees included The Hartling Group, Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos), Grace Bay Resorts, Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd., and JEM TCI Holdings Ltd. (Salterra Resort & Spa). Grace Bay Resorts received the Sustainability Trailblazer Award, while Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos) was honoured with the Community Impact Award.
Other memorable moments of the evening included two luxury raffle draws and a special recognition presented to Ms. Sheryl McLaughlin for five years of dedicated service to the agency.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Chair Mr. Walter Gardiner, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended appreciation to the organizers for delivering a successful and memorable celebration.
Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
Providenciales will come alive this September as the Hair Evolution International Beauty Education Expo & Hair Show takes center stage for two days of creativity, culture, and community impact. Hosted by New Light Entertainment, the highly anticipated event runs from September 26–27, 2025, blending artistry with empowerment while spotlighting some of the region’s brightest talents and industry pioneers.
Day One, set for Friday, September 26 at Graceway Sports Centre, will feature the International Beauty Education Expo, an immersive
program dedicated to skill-building and professional growth. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., attendees can take part in live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and panel discussions led by international experts. Highlights include the discussion “Where Style Meets Strategy: Elevating Beauty, Business & Wellbeing” featuring renowned panelists such as dermatologist Dr. Marsha Barnett, cosmetologist and educator Dr. Kym Stubbs, Jamaica International Beauty Expo founder Suzette Brown, Toronto-based event producer Keisha Pinto, and educator Orica Smart. Celebrity stylists will also lead specialized trade classes, including a wig installation masterclass taught by Sophia Kay.
The Expo’s mission goes beyond beauty. It provides networking opportunities, showcases local and international vendors, and connects aspiring professionals—particularly youth—with career pathways in the creative industry. Part proceeds will benefit the Cancer Society of the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensuring that the event makes a lasting impact both inside and outside the beauty arena.
On Saturday, September 27, the spotlight shifts to Brayton Hall for the dazzling Main Stage Hair & Fashion Showcases. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the night promises high-energy runway performances, fantasy hair creations, cutting-edge barbering, and striking fashion presentations. Local and international talents will converge, blending artistry with entertainment for an unforgettable show.
The evening will also honor trailblazers who have made extraordinary contributions to the beauty industry. This year’s Hair Evolution Honourees include:
- Commenci Duncan-Hanfield, recipient of the Legacy in Beauty & Community Impact Award, recognized for her lasting influence and service.
- Camille Swann, awarded the Beauty & Influence Trailblazer Award, celebrating her innovative leadership and impact on the industry.
- Fior Rivas, recipient of the Outstanding Service & Industry Impact Award, for her dedication to advancing the beauty profession.
- Dr. Kym Stubbs, honored with the Lifetime Achievement in Beauty & Education Award, for decades of excellence as a cosmetologist and educator.
- Kareem Higgs, receiving the Barbering Legacy & Trailblazer Award, recognizing his contributions to elevating barbering within the community.
Founder and Executive Director Natasha Bien-Aimé expressed her excitement about the show’s return, emphasizing its role as more than entertainment. “Hair Evolution is about celebrating artistry, but also about education, empowerment, and building opportunities for the next generation,” she said.
With its dynamic blend of education, fashion, and recognition, Hair Evolution 2025 promises to inspire, entertain, and uplift. Tickets are available now, with limited space for attendees eager to witness the Caribbean’s premier beauty showcase.
