TCI News
The Shoe is on the Other Foot. Are we Hypocrites?
#Providenciales, March 5, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – IPoliticians and their supporters have to be very careful what they say or do when they are in Opposition or even in Government as you never know when the shoe will be worn on the other foot.
Hypocrisy on both sides
In October/November 2016, the PNP administration brought to the House of Assembly a bill to write off $12 million in penalties for Cable & Wireless. This was related to taxes that Cable & Wireless should have charged their customers for the period June 2010 to May 2014 as a result of a change in law in 2011. However, management of Cable & Wireless (including myself, yes I was CEO then) was not aware of the change in law and never charged the customers the taxes and therefore never collected the taxes and so the Government thought it was fitting to waive the penalties as it would have detrimental impact on the company including the employees.
The Opposition (the PDM) at that time claimed they did not have enough information and did not vote or supported the waiver of the $12million. In fact, this write off was one of the campaign tactics that the Opposition used during the 2016 campaign. Supporters of the party spoke strongly against this write off saying the Government should not do it and that the money could have been used elsewhere. Are we a bunch of hypocrites?
This week, the House of Assembly met and this time, the PDM administration brought to the House of Assembly the amnesty waiver to write off penalties of $85mllion for hotels and restaurants. This time the PNP voted against the bill like what the PDM did in 2012. The people that openly spoke against the $12million write off in 2016 are now very quiet with the $85mllion and it is only because their party is in power. The PNP supporters on the other hand are crying shame on this write off. Aren’t these actions of hypocrisy by both PNP and PDM?
Beaches
I supported the write off for Cable & Wireless because C&W never collected the taxes from customers. Likewise, I will support a write off for the Hotels and Restaurants penalties especially if the hotels did not collect the taxes from guests. I also think the penalties calculations are excessive and a write off should take place. However, in the HOA, the Premier said that Beaches claimed they were told they only had to pay 60% of the accommodation tax. This is an alarming concern as the TCIG is saying there is no evidence of any agreement.
Now some supporters of this government are trying to turn this around and casting blame on Hon. Washington Misick. We are hypocrites. There is a letter circulating around on Facebook by John Brown. How did John Brown get a copy of the Ministry of Finance letter? This letter was in 2013 when the Government made changes to the tax platform by charging guests 12% on all services they receive during their time in TCI. Hon. Misick stated that the Revenue Commissioner informed him that Beaches is paying 60% based on the Development Agreement. How could Hon. Misick be blamed when the Development Agreement was signed during the Taylor Administration unless another development agreement was made during Mike Misick administration? I spoke to Hon. Derek prior to publishing this article and he is not aware of any arrangements of Beaches only paying 60%. I also contacted Hon. Mike Misick and his administration never agreed to Beaches only paying 60% of the taxes. I believe what both of the former leaders told me unless Beaches can show us something in writing.
How could an establishment collect taxes on behalf of TCIG and only payout 60%? How could an establishment operate without such a written agreement? Was Beaches only charging the guests 7.2% (which is 60% of 12%) or were they charging the full 12%? The law of the country is 12% and that is public knowledge and no agreement should supersede the laws of TCIG.
Reimburse the Companies that paid the excess penalties last year
I feel horrible about the fact that many other businesses especially the small ones paid excessive penalties in 2018 and early 2019 and there was no amnesty for them. (At least I am not aware of any). Some of these businesses had to borrow funds to pay for the penalties and now we have major hotels such as Beaches being waived of the penalties. Is it possible for TCIG to reimburse the businesses that paid the excess penalties in the last two years?
Conclusion
I know it is a tough decision for any Government to come to the people and tell them they are writing off $85million in outstanding penalties. Therefore, political parties must be cautious what they say or do when in opposition as you never know what shoe you will have to wear once you become the Government.
I am quite sure when Beaches was referring to the 60%, they were talking about the 60% service charges that were entitled to pay employees.
By: Drexwell Seymour
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.
