TCI News
TCI: Press Statement from the Leader of the Opposition – “Ten Pillars of Short Change”
#Providenciales, December 15, 2018 – Turks and Caic0s – From the Fanciful to the Absurd: The PDM sleepwalks into the second half of its four-year mandate.
Real change is achieved by real leadership, and real leaders are authentic, possess self-knowledge and humility. These are the qualities of a true leader as reflected in the words of Douglas MacArthur: “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.”
The roof is on fire and the PDM is playing follow the leader. Ministers and other elected PDM representatives are going along uncritically with the imperial leadership style of the Premier and dancing to her beat. Leaders who exercise power and authority responsibly do not command; they help people identify what changes are required in their principles, behaviors, performances and priorities to accommodate changing conditions and embrace new demands. But, the Premier’s style of leadership is ineffective and dangerous. It portrays cowardice, insecurity and a lack of empathy. It hinders people’s ability to anticipate and react to changing circumstances.
But then again, the current state was predictable from the onset of the many absurd promises outlined in the PDM’s manifesto. These seem to have been based on astrology – the divination of outcomes rather than objective achievable output. This is obvious from the PDMs obsession with numerology reflected in the “Change Document”, which reads like a child’s wish list at Christmas time. The numerous repetitive “flights of fancy” are, broadly speaking, included under the four broad headings below:
- 20 Anchor projects for real change
- 10 Pillars for Change
- 12-Point law enforcement priorities
- 10 Institutions and Infrastructure For Real and Meaningful Change.
I encourage every thinking voter to find the Change Document on the internet and read it now having the benefit of 20:20 vision and discover the pile of ‘cockamamie’ it is. Understandably, in the heat of the moment and after a period of necessary austerity under the PNP to upright the economy, the rhetoric of the PDM must have sound like an utopian redemption. But what appeared to be an ushering in of utopia has turned out to be “fool’s gold”- a mirage in the desert. Alas, it was the PNP’s courageous decisions that laid the foundation upon which the PDM would attempt to overlay its faulty pillars that continues to power the economy. The four corners of that foundation are, annual economic growth of 4+%; dissolution of $170m debt in record time; BBB+ credit rating; and increased investor confidence which remains strong despite the machinations of the PDM against sound economic principles, and whimsical actions in contradiction to their campaign promises. It is useful to draw the public’s attention to their ten pillars as a measure of their performance. They are listed below and reflects some of the most egregious failures of any political manifesto. You be the judge.
- The promise of Citizen and Community Empowerment for Real Change.
Under which the promise of safe neighborhoods; stamp and import duty rebates to assist first time homeowners; bank mortgage forgiveness and moratorium on foreclosures; equal pay legislation; streamline Labour and Immigration for efficiency and partnership with the private sector for job creation and training; increase caregiving assistance to the sick and elderly; poverty eradication; after school support to single parents; and a pension fund for hospitality workers.
- Border Control, Security, Law and Order
A comprehensive national security strategy with major focus on border protection, immigration controls and crime prevention; 12-point crime plan; oversight of policing under a commission; develop a Chinese investment policy; will ensure that there is adequate funding to ensure that the persons serving custodial sentences receive the best care and rehabilitative opportunities.
- Jobs and Economy
Creation of a Jobs Policy; promote “shop locally” in support of the Agri Industry; encourage the development of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) through a designated desk; encourage and develop a maritime tourism plan that will facilitate the sailing and yachting community; conduct comprehensive fishing industry review; promote and sponsor local music production, marketing and distribution; review the reserved business categories and empower the Public Service to police it to ensure compliance with the Laws; pre-approve concessions designated Special Development Areas (SDAs); provide legislative and other support for greater participation and protection of TC Islanders in the construction and music industries; introduce a stimulus package that seeks to provide immediate jobs
- Progressive Youth Development
Youth – Better You Program that will have at its heart national volunteer service; encourage entrepreneurship in the schools’ curriculum; reintroduce the Sports Commission; reintroduce the TCI National Track & Field Championships between the Islands.
- Education Transformation and Training
Transform the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College into the leading National Institution for training, education and research; improve the administration of education by training nationals in educational management; ensure that all schools have proper sporting facilities; support the introduction of a Teacher Liaison Program in all schools throughout the Islands; introduce the teaching of Civics at all educational levels.
- Healthcare
Address the major challenge of access to healthcare and will recognize groups that currently already use the services, those who require special consideration and the apparent restrictive NHIP registration policy; redevelop and refocus healthcare in the TCI beginning with Primary Health Care and preventative measures.
- Environment, Land use and Planning
Return responsibility of land management to an elected official; introduce sustainable funding for protection of the environment; introduce a comprehensive national anti-litter campaign styled the “Spic and Span Program” and will assist in the management of the environment through alternative sentencing measures; commission and complete an environmental awareness audit; upgrade environmental legislation consistent with 21st century needs; develop and implement a sustainable National Physical Development Plan; complete the Crown Land Audit; develop and implement an environmental culture archive.
- Infrastructure, housing and Planning
A comprehensive national drainage plan; create Public Zones for free Wi-Fi; a comprehensive review of the Port Management and Ports area country wide; proper road safety database and management system; a Public Transportation Authority/Department which will oversee personal cabs and bus services for residents.
- Institutions for Real Change
Erect a purpose-built community college and vocational and hospitality training school; high performance sports complex and culture centre; The Heritage and Cultural Commission with a multiculturalism department to assist in the management of the many cultures living among us; a Sports Commission for the effective and efficient management of sports in these Islands.
- Governance
Stronger governmental systems through constitutional advancement and strong local government; a national symposium to create a national plan/vision; seek immediately to commission a review of the physical working condition of civil servants and will prepare an aggressive repairs plan to improve the physical working conditions of the civil service; a review of the compensation package offered to Civil Servants is a priority to a PDM administration; will implement policy to ensure that there is a structured performance appraisals program 
for promotion and training; hold structured periodic meetings with civil service; immediately commission a review of the physical working condition of civil servants and prepare an aggressive repairs plan to improve the physical working conditions of the civil service.
We make commitments to others all the time. However, sometimes circumstances over which we have no control prevent us from keeping some promises. What is unacceptable is knowingly making promises that cannot be kept or worse, that we have no intention of keeping. It really boils down to how many promises one knowingly breaks, and how one responds when one is unable to deliver on an achievable promise. Failure to keep our promises is a clear and unequivocal reflection of our view of the recipients of those broken promises. It is especially egregious for someone in public office to break promises made to followers. It speaks to the trustworthiness or lack thereof of the leader. “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned” Matthew 12:37. The PDM administration has broken just about every promise in its 2016 manifesto, especially those it promised to deliver within the first 100 days in office. The PDM administration needs to show some respect for the electorate, admit its failure, explain why and apologise for those broken promises to date and for those promises which it knows by now is unrealistic and unachievable. An unachievable promise is a comfort to fool. The people of the Turks and Caicos deserve better.
Press Release: Leader of the Opposition
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands— Thursday, 24 September 2026: The Department of Disaster Management and
Emergencies (DDME) was invited by Digicel to deliver a hurricane preparedness presentation to members of their staff.
The engaging 90-minute presentation formed part of DDME’s ongoing public education and awareness efforts aimed at strengthening preparedness across the Turks and Caicos Islands. During the session, Digicel employees were provided with important information on the potential impacts of hurricanes and other emergencies, as well as the actions that individuals and organisations can take to reduce risks and protect lives, property and essential operations.
The presentation emphasised that preparedness is a shared responsibility and should begin well before a storm or other emergency threatens the country. Staff were encouraged to understand the risks associated with hurricanes, remain informed through official sources and develop personal and workplace preparedness plans.
DDME recognises the important role that businesses play in national disaster preparedness and resilience. Corporate organisations are
encouraged to establish and regularly review emergency plans that clearly outline responsibilities, communication procedures, evacuation arrangements, business continuity measures and recovery actions.
“Preparedness is most effective when it is planned and practised before an emergency occurs,” Jason Hills, DDME Director. “Organisations that invest in preparedness today are better positioned to protect their people, maintain essential services and support the wider community during times of crisis.”
Corporate organisations, schools and government departments interested in DDME’s assistance with hurricane preparedness training, emergency drills support or assistance with developing a business contingency plan are encouraged to contact the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies via email at ddme.tci@gmail.com.
News
Indian Association of Turks and Caicos Islands Empowers Local Students Through Back-to-School Backpack & Supplies Drive
PROVIDENCIALE, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS — The Indian Association of Turks and Caicos Islands (IATCI) is proud to
announce the successful completion of its 2026 Back-to-School Supplies Initiative, distributing essential backpacks and educational materials to local students and families across the community.
With the new academic year underway, this annual drive was designed to alleviate the financial burden on families while equipping local youth with the necessary tools for academic success.
Education is an investment in a better generation and a brighter future. We are grateful to all our generous donors and supporters whose contributions helped make this initiative possible.
The initiative’s success was made possible through the collaboration and contributions of local corporate partners and community members. IATCI extends its sincere appreciation to the following sponsors for their support and commitment:
• Mayaa Ltd, Ayavue Enterprises, Provo Café, Sunny Foods, Gold Smith, Charlie’s, Kishco / Kostco, Citrusbuy Ltd.
Through partnerships like these, IATCI continues its commitment to fostering community growth, supporting educational development, and making a lasting positive impact across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
About the Indian Association of Turks and Caicos Islands (IATCI)
The Indian Association of Turks and Caicos Islands is a non-profit community organization dedicated to cultural enrichment, community service, and supporting educational and social initiatives throughout the islands.
Indian Association of Turks and Caicos Islands (IATCI)
“Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures”
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — September 23, 2026; TCI Hospital joined healthcare organisations around the world in celebrating World Pharmacy Day from September 21-25, 2026, recognising the vital contribution pharmacists and pharmacy technicians make to patient safety, quality care and stronger healthcare systems.
Under the theme “Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures,” this year’s observance highlighted the importance of enabling pharmacy
professionals to use their knowledge, skills and expertise to their fullest potential in improving health outcomes and supporting patients throughout their healthcare journey.
As part of World Pharmacy Week, September 19–25, TCI Hospital celebrated its Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians while engaging patients, students and the wider community in activities focused on medication safety, pharmacy careers and the expanding role of pharmacy professionals in healthcare.
More Than Preparing Medications
Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are integral members of the multidisciplinary healthcare team at TCI Hospital. While pharmacy is often associated with dispensing and preparing medicines, the work of pharmacy professionals extends far beyond the pharmacy counter.
The hospital’s pharmacy team works collaboratively with physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals to support the safe and appropriate use of medications throughout the patient journey. Their work includes medication preparation and management, medication reconciliation and review, patient education, and processes designed to identify and reduce medication-related risks.
Their specialised knowledge is particularly important in clinical areas such as the Neonatal Unit, Oncology and Dialysis services, where medication management requires precision, careful calculation, specialised preparation and close attention to individual patient needs.
For TCI Hospital, World Pharmacy Day therefore provides an opportunity not only to celebrate pharmacy professionals, but also to increase public understanding of their important contribution to safe, effective and patient-centred care.
Inspiring the Next Generation
An important part of TCI Hospital’s 2026 observance was engaging young people and introducing them to the diverse opportunities
available within the pharmacy profession.
Students from Maranatha Academy in Providenciales and HJ Robinson High School in Grand Turk, participated in an exposition designed to provide insight into the work of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and their contribution to patient care and medication safety.
Students explored how medications moved through the healthcare system, the safeguards used to help prevent medication errors, and the importance of medication reconciliation in identifying and resolving potential medication-related concerns.
The sessions also featured practical demonstrations of selected tools and processes used by pharmacy professionals, giving students an opportunity to experience aspects of the profession beyond the traditional image of dispensing medicines.
Through this engagement, TCI Hospital hoped to encourage more young people in the Turks and Caicos Islands to consider careers in pharmacy and the wider healthcare sector.
Taking Pharmacy Education into The Community
TCI Hospital extended the conversation beyond the hospital through a special TCI Hospital House Call Talk Show episode featuring pharmacy professionals and a patient.
The programme explored the role of pharmacists from both the healthcare professional and patient perspectives, including how pharmacy professionals contributed to safe medication use and how patients could become active partners in their own medication safety.
The discussion encouraged patients to know the medications they were taking, provide healthcare professionals with accurate and up-to-date information about their medicines, follow medication instructions carefully, and ask questions whenever they were uncertain about their treatment.
The programme also highlighted pharmacy as a rewarding healthcare career and encouraged young people to explore educational and professional opportunities in the field.
Medication Safety is a Shared Responsibility
World Pharmacy Day also provides an important reminder that medication safety is a shared responsibility involving healthcare organisations, healthcare professionals, patients and families.
Patients can contribute to safer care by maintaining an accurate list of their medications, including prescription and non-prescription
medicines; informing healthcare professionals about medications they are taking; following instructions for safe medication use; and asking questions when they do not understand why or how a medicine should be taken.
Healthcare organisations and professionals, in turn, have a responsibility to maintain systems that support safe medication practices and enable pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to contribute their expertise across the continuum of care.
TCI Hospital remains committed to strengthening medication safety, supporting its pharmacy workforce, educating patients and promoting effective collaboration across the multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Celebrating the People Behind Safe Medication Use
Chief Executive Officer of TCI Hospital, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, said World Pharmacy Day is an important opportunity to recognise the expertise and dedication of the hospital’s pharmacy professionals.
| “Our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are essential members of the multidisciplinary team and make an invaluable contribution to safe, high-quality patient care every day. Their role extends far beyond preparing and dispensing medications. They bring specialised knowledge, precision and clinical expertise to medication management and work alongside our healthcare teams to reduce risks and support the best possible outcomes for our patients.
This year’s theme also reminds us that empowering pharmacists means creating opportunities for them to contribute their expertise across the patient journey. We are proud of our pharmacy team and sincerely thank them for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to helping build healthier futures for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.” Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant |
Chief of Allied Services, Eleanor Hall, highlighted the importance of recognising pharmacy as an integral clinical service and supporting the continued professional development of the pharmacy workforce.
| “Pharmacy is an essential component of safe and effective healthcare delivery. Our pharmacy professionals work collaboratively across disciplines and services, bringing expertise that supports clinical decision-making, medication safety and patient education. Their contribution is especially important as healthcare becomes increasingly complex and patients require more individualised approaches to medication management.
Empowering our pharmacy workforce also means investing in professional development, encouraging innovation and ensuring that pharmacists and pharmacy technicians have opportunities to contribute their knowledge throughout the healthcare system. I am extremely pleased that this year’s activities also extend into our schools and community, helping people better understand the profession while inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.” Eleanor Hall |
Pharmacy Manager Kennita Myers said the theme reflects both the responsibility carried by pharmacy professionals and the opportunities available to further strengthen their contribution to patient care.
| “Every medication we prepare, review or manage represents a patient who is depending on us to get it right. Whether we are supporting neonatal care, oncology, dialysis or other hospital services, accuracy, vigilance and patient safety remain at the centre of everything we do.
Our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are also educators and advocates for safe medication use. We want our patients to understand their medicines and feel confident asking questions about their treatment. We are equally passionate about introducing young people to pharmacy and showing them the many ways, they can build meaningful careers while contributing to the health of their community. World Pharmacists Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate our profession, share our knowledge and inspire the next generation.” Kennita Myers |
Thank You to Our Pharmacy Professionals
Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital extends its sincere appreciation to its pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for their professionalism, expertise and commitment to patient safety.
Whether preparing specialised medications, supporting clinical teams, educating patients, reviewing medication therapy or strengthening medication-safety processes, pharmacy professionals play an important role at every stage of the patient journey.
Their work embodies the message of World Pharmacy Day 2026: “Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures.”
To all of our Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians, thank you for helping to keep our patients safe, supporting our healthcare teams and contributing every day to healthier futures for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
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