Connect with us

TCI News

TCI: Premier on Post Office criticism

Published

on

#Providenciales, May 9, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Premier to Leader of the Opposition: Get Over It and Get Use To Openings!

I am amused that the Leader of the Opposition would seek to take credit for a deliberate decision taken by my Government. In fact my Government has been criticized for progressing this Project while the Opposition remained silent. Sharp criticism came as recent as last week’s Budget Session from a member of his Opposition Team when his member said and I quote, “In the age of 5G and Internet, the Government is building a Post Office”.

Why didn’t Hon Misick correct his own member and take credit? The people are now weary with Hon Misick on his failed attempts to take credit for deliverables citing that his Government had hoped to deliver this and that during their 4yrs in Office. He should properly apologize to this country and take credit for his less than robust Capital Program which was his responsibility and which drew criticism from my Opposition Team who on multiple occasions called it a “recycled” Plan. In fact, accurately so, another member of his Opposition Team recently stated correctly that it is for a Minister to drive the Capital Program and to achieve little is a reflection on the Minister.

I am pleased that after 2 Storms and with the hard work of driven and motivated civil servants, my Government has enjoyed 90.4% of its Capital Program in this Financial Year and I dare the Leader of the Opposition to attempt to take credit for any of the 60 plus projects or any for 2017/18. The Former Administration no doubt had hopes and dreams but could not deliver or realize them. The Leader of the Opposition can get use to openings and the launch of new Programs. He must simply “get over it” and be prepared to be to attend more as a spectator.

The decision for Projects to proceed remain a decision for my Government and where credit was due, we stated the very short list of 3 projects. 

The Hon Misick should then take credit for the deplorable conditions that the Staff worked under for years and the fact that this Project was not a priority. But we recognized that giving a full and truthful account is not a strong suit for the Leader of the Opposition who more and more recently has shown new levels of desperation.

Again misleading and showing his and his Party’s obsession with me. The Hon Minister Vaden Williams did say that I was unaware of the procurement of pins to be sold as souvenirs through the Philatelic Bureau which is customary. I must say thank you to the Hon Minister and his Ministry; surprised but simply honored. It is becoming easier and easier in our country to celebrate our people despite the rhetoric of those who feel they can change history. Mature countries and mature governments do this and mature Oppositions accept history and move on.

As it relates to the Most Excellent Right Hon JAGS McCartney, our country’s first Chief Minister and only named National Hero it is regrettable that in 2019 and on this his 39th Death Anniversary, as Leader of this country I feel compelled to answer a current political leader as to having a pin made in his honor.

We will never accept Hon Misick’s seeming protection of our only named National Hero having removed the Holiday named for TMER Hon JAGS’ McCartney when he served as Chief Minister. He deserves a wall of pins and many more other souvenirs as done by other countries who are proud of their Heroes. Visitors and residents alike should be able to celebrate him, know his likeness and his contributions and to be reminded in as many forms as possible. 

We look forward to inviting the Leader of the Opposition as we restore this most Prestigous holiday in his name and as we erect and unveil monuments in his honor. 

I say kudos to Hon Williams and your entire Ministry on your driving your Ministry’s Project to completion and kudos to the Staff of the Post Office who had to endure years and years of being ignored. And again thank you and congratulations to the family of the Late George Brown whose legacy now stands tall for all to see.

#TCISTRONG #TCIPROUD

Continue Reading

TCI News

Frontier Airlines’ Arrival to Turks & Caicos Marks a Game-Changing Connection

Published

on

Turks and Caicos, October 25, 2025 – Budget-friendly skies are opening over the Turks and Caicos Islands as Frontier Airlines prepares to launch its first-ever nonstop flights between Providenciales International Airport (PLS) and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) — the world’s busiest air hub.

Starting December 20, 2025, the twice-weekly service will offer residents and tourists a direct, affordable gateway to and from the U.S. mainland. The new route marks Frontier’s debut in the Turks and Caicos, part of a major regional expansion that includes 22 new routes across Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

“We couldn’t be more excited to begin operations in Providenciales,” said Josh Flyr, Frontier’s Vice President of Network and Operations Design. “With our nonstop service to Atlanta, we’re making travel easier, more affordable, and unlocking connections to countless destinations across the U.S. and beyond. It’s not just about tourism — it’s about opportunity.”

Big Win for Providenciales and the Region

The move positions Howard Hamilton International Airport as a growing Caribbean hub. Frontier’s low-fare model is expected to stimulate visitor arrivals, particularly from Atlanta — a key U.S. tourism feeder city — while giving Turks and Caicos residents new, cost-effective travel options for business, education, and leisure.

Industry observers note that the timing couldn’t be better. Turks and Caicos tourism remains on an upward trajectory in 2025, with hotel occupancy and airlift both climbing following the pandemic rebound. Frontier’s entry adds competitive pricing to an air market long dominated by legacy carriers, expanding the reach of the destination to more budget-minded travelers.

A Wider Growth Strategy

The Atlanta–Providenciales launch is part of Frontier’s aggressive Caribbean push this winter, which also includes new flights to NassauSt. MaartenPuerto Vallarta, and San José del Cabo. Introductory fares to select destinations are as low as US $69 one-way.

For Turks and Caicos, the connection to Atlanta — one of Frontier’s strategic bases — means instant access to hundreds of onward destinations in North America and beyond.

As Frontier joins the expanding roster of carriers serving the islands, tourism officials are calling it a “win-win for accessibility and affordability.” And for travelers? It’s a golden ticket to paradise — at a fraction of the cost.

Continue Reading

TCI News

Turks & Caicos Police Commissioner Urges Students to “Awaken Their Sleeping Giants”

Published

on

Turks and Caicos, October 24, 2025 – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey delivered an impassioned address to male students at Clement Howell High School, calling on them to recognize their power, seize their potential, and “awaken the sleeping giants” within.

In a message that blended humility, faith, and personal experience, the Commissioner reminded the boys that the decisions they make today will shape their future.“The choices you make today determine who you become tomorrow,” he said.

Bailey, who revealed he was the first in his family to attend high school, urged the students to embrace education and discipline as tools of transformation.“Knowledge is power. If you want to be a real man, you need to read,” he told them. “Remember your potential — if others can do it, so can you. Some of you are sleeping giants waiting to be awakened.”

He emphasized that circumstances of birth do not dictate destiny, challenging the young men to carry self-respect, faith, and moral conviction wherever they go.  “Self-respect is key; respect yourself, respect others, and respect God,” he said.  “The circumstances you were born into do not define who you are.”

The Commissioner also spoke about resilience, advising that true strength often lies in restraint.

“There will be challenges, and people may try to impede your development — but rise above negativity. Sometimes, strength means walking away,” he said. “Some of you are sleeping lions; it’s time to awaken that instinct and rediscover your true potential.”

In closing, Commissioner Bailey delivered a stirring challenge:

“Each morning, look in the mirror and remind yourself that you were created by God and are capable of great exploits. You are a possibility with potential. Step forward with confidence — this is your country, your islands. Be the best version of yourself.”

Following his speech, the Commissioner engaged the students in open dialogue, answering questions and listening to their perspectives on issues affecting young men in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Developed by Deandrea Hamilton • with ChatGPT (AI) • edited by Magnetic Media.

Continue Reading

TCI News

ISU SUPPORTS SUCCESSFUL MULTIAGENCY ENFORCEMENT EXERCISE IN FIVE CAYS AND BLUE HILLS

Published

on

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 23 October 2025 — The Crown Land Unit, supported by the Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) and the Immigration and Border Services, led the successful execution of a reclamation exercise in Five Cays and Blue Hills on Tuesday August 26, 2025. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force provided security for the operation which formed part of the Government’s mandate under the Crown Land Ordinance to prevent squatting and encroachment on Crown Land.

During routine inspections, the Crown Land Unit identified three unoccupied, illegally constructed steel and concrete block structures on parcels 60610/226, 60610/228, and 60610/239, located in the area commonly referred to as Sand Bar Street, Five Cays. Notices of Illegal Occupation were issued in accordance with the Crown Land Ordinance, however the owners of the structures failed to comply with the instructions contained in the Notices. As a result, enforcement action was taken to remove the structures and reclaim the land.

The exercise resulted in the full reclamation of 1.18 acres of Crown Land, with the removal of three unauthorized structures which were all block and concrete structures from foundation to belt beam stages of development.

Following the reclamation in Five Cays, the team proceeded to Blue Hills where ten Letters of Illegal Occupation were served across two parcels, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to land protection and management.

The ISU reaffirms its commitment to supporting partner agencies in the coordinated management of Crown Land, ensuring that all enforcement actions are conducted lawfully, efficiently, and in the public interest.

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING