TCI News
TCI: Premier on Post Office criticism
#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
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 20 February 2026 — The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key
government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Block and Parcel 60609/33 in the Five Cays area.
The exercise was led by the Crown Land Unit, pursuant to its statutory mandate under the Crown Land Ordinance to prevent squatting and encroachment on Crown land. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Planning Department and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.
The enforcement action followed a series of inspections conducted by the Crown Land Unit throughout Five Cays, which identified several illegally constructed buildings made of concrete and timber on sections of the subject parcel. In keeping with the provisions of the Crown Land Ordinance, occupied structures were served Letters of Illegal Occupation, delivered by hand to occupants and
posted on structures where individuals were absent. Incomplete and unoccupied structures were served Notices of Unauthorized Occupation pursuant to section 22 of the Ordinance. A total of ten (10) Letters of Illegal Occupation and three (3) Notices of Unauthorized Occupation were issued during the exercise.
The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold the law, protect Crown land, and manage informal settlements in a structured and lawful manner. Members of the public are reminded that unauthorised occupation and development on Crown land is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.
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