Connect with us

TCI News

TCI: Former Premier Michael Misick Press Statement

Published

on

#Providenciales, October 31, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – On hearing that the Premier was making a National Address I waited with baited breath, intense anticipation, hoping that the Premier after being missing in action for months, had a major announcement to make on tackling crime, Immigration and civil servants pay.  An announcement of a breakthrough in the Constitutional talks would have been a game changer or maybe a first major investment since coming to office was about to be lauded for which she could have finally claim honest credit.  

But to my disappointment non of the above happened.  Instead in her typical roddy, bullying style she used the national radio to try to intimidate the striking air traffic controllers, politicians and ordinary citizens who stood with them for exercising their Constitutional right to peacefully protest. 

Let me be clear; I am not intimidated by Sharlene Cartwright or any of her fake Facebook accounts. I have stood with the workers of the Turks and Caicos Islands fighting for jobs, better pay and working conditions, respect and against discrimination all of my adult life.  Where was Sharlene when I and others stood with the workers of club Med in the 80s and cost it to be shut down until they changed their discriminatory practices?  Where was Sharlene when I and others stood up against the racism that was perpetrated on our people by the then owner of the Yacht Club, Jack Albershadt, who we ran out of town? So my record of standing with my people is undeniable I dare Sharlene to show anything comparable on her behalf. 

Unlike her and Doug Parnell, I am not running for political office this time.  Therefore, I don’t need a photo opt.  I have served my country for more than 25 years and my record speaks for it self.  I stood with the air traffic controllers because it was the right thing to do. 

I was first made Tourism Minister in the early 90s and my government formed 2003 to 2009 has done more to promote these islands including putting these islands on the map as a high end tourist destination.  So I do not need no “Johnny Come Lately” politician to lecture me about destroying an industry which my government helped to create . While we must protect the tourism industry, we cannot continue to do so at the expense of our own people, be they the air traffic controllers or the hotel workers.  I will always stand with the people of this country when threatened by big business that seeks to exploit them or a government that seeks to take advantage of them. 

The simple fact of the matter is that since 2009, the people of this country have seen a complete regression in their economic fortunes whether in their personal lives or their businesses.  They have seen crime increased, unsolved homicides and their quality of livelihood adversely affected like never before.  They are watching Grace Bay develop and cannot see a meaningful future there for them or their children as entrepreneurs or property owners.  

All this is taking place while the Government boasts of record surpluses but our people cannot get their children in public schools or generate any savings on their bank accounts.  Our people are either living from paycheque to paycheque or from hand to mouth with no hope in sight.  The roofs of their homes still have gaping holes in them in the aftermath of the hurricanes of 2017.

The Premier is a complete failure!!  She can fittingly be called “a do nothing Premier with all talk and no action”.   There is presently a  major crime ring that is affecting our country – where was she during the highest murder occurrence a month ago? She didn’t even have the decency to show up to her own press conference on crime.  We now know where her priority lies and it isn’t with us.  

The sloops keep coming in weekly and her solution is she can’t stop the sloops.  Again in her so called national address she said nothing about illegal Immigration.  She never takes responsibility for anything.  Instead she can be relied on to deflect and lie whenever she is confronted with an issue relating to this country.  

In her address, she gave the public the impression that the Airport Authority has nothing to do with the Government. The Authority is a statutory body that is wholly own and run under the direction of the Government. The Board reports to a minister; in this case, she is the minister responsible for the Airport Authority.  Her PS of Finance sits on the Board.  The reason for this is to ensure that Sharlene, as Premier and Minister responsible is kept abreast of essential matters of the Authority.  

As the Minister responsible she should have known what was brewing and should have dealt with it long before it got to a crisis point for the young and committed air traffic controllers who had to strike  to get her attention.  For her to now come out of hiding and spew out the garbage she did in her address is in true conformity to her style of deflection. 

She lied about the situation regarding Hon. Ralph Higgs who has a matter before the Integrity Commission.  The fact of the matter is that when she was in the Opposition she made numerous reports to the Integrity Commission about PNP Ministers including Premier Ewing and Minister Amanda Missick.  

It was the PDM with her help in 2008 that wrote fictitious letters to the British Foreign Affairs Committee complaining about my government and alleging systemic corruption causing the suspension of the Constitution and the last ten years of investigation and trial. 

Of further concern to all right thinking people, isn’t it alarming or damn right shameful how the British Government selected her and others who were highly conflicted to sit on the Consultative Forum to enact laws to persecute, sorry I meant “prosecute” her political opponents.  Wasn’t it convenient and beneficial to Sharlene and her associates to repeal the rights to jury trials and the treatment of hearsay evidence and to establish a sham kangaroo court so that she could be elected as the next government?  

If this is not Sharlene dealing in your own self-interest, then tell me what is?   And she and others like her have the audacity to call me and my colleagues corrupt?  Ain’t this exactly what the United States of America is dealing with in the impending impeachment of Donald Trump?  As they would say here….”Child Please”.  

I believe the majority of the people in this country can see and know exactly what is going on and history will judge Sharlene and people like her accordingly.

Sharlene Cartwright you are a dishonest hypocrite, a Liar and a two faceted bully who is surrounded by drug dealers and henchmen who are shaking down the Ritz Carlton investors and others for access and favors.  Maybe the Integrity

Commission should perform a close examination of this. 

But it ain’t long now the people of the Turks and Caicos will remember you at the polls and will  make sure you are a one term Premier. 

Enough is Enough

Release: Michael Misick, TCI former Premier

News

Academy Eagles FC crowned Beaches Turks & Caicos sponsored Provo Men’s Premier League champions 2026  

Published

on

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The Academy Eagles FC were crowned champions of the Beaches sponsored Men’s Provo Premier League after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over defending champions, SWA Sharks, at the Venetian Road football field.

In a match that featured a mix of youth and experienced players, the Academy Eagles eventually broke through late in the game when Jean Innocent found the back of the net in the 77th minute. Innocent doubled the lead in the 95th minute from the penalty spot to clinch the championship.

Academy Eagles head coach Aaron Lawrence expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance. “I applaud the team for their discipline throughout the season and their ability to stick to the plan heading into this game,” Lawrence shared, adding special praise for team captain Myherwens Varis for “following tactical instructions throughout the game.”

“This victory would not have been possible without the thoughtful support from our main sponsor, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. This is the second year running with this relationship. This has provided exposure for the semi-professional players and the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association,” Lawrence noted.

On the opposing sideline, SWA Sharks coach Jack Watson was modest in defeat. While he noted that his team executed their strategy well, he recognized the Eagles’ determination. “I congratulate the Eagles team for wanting the win more,” Watson said. “We played to the game plan, but I fault a lapse in judgment that gave up two goals.”

Beaches Turks and Caicos, returning for a second year of sponsoring the competition, expressed ongoing dedication to youth football in the islands. General Manager Deryk Meany shared his enthusiasm, “I am satisfied with the impact that the league is having on youth development throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and our resort’s involvement in fielding a team for the competition.” The final phase of the tournament now transitions to a knockout format among the eight participating clubs.

League executives also weighed in on the success of the season. Provo Premier League President, Phillip Baptiste, expressed his satisfaction with the league format and highlighted the significant progress made by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) over the course of the tournament.

“This is what true success looks like as corporate partners like Beaches Turks and Caicos resort joins forces with the TCIFA in providing an avenue for youth development and sports. While we are happy for the continued sponsorship, we are anticipating more support from other entities. This is not only a win for sports, it is a win for development here in the TCI,” Baptiste shared.

TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie echoed these positive sentiments, pointing to the league’s development as an avenue for showcasing local talent on a broader stage. “Our team continues to learn as they work on developing talents with the youth players, as well as providing a broader marketing avenue for the league to be seen internationally with FIFA+ streaming,” Ritchie said.

He added, “the TCIFA commends the growth of the coaching staff involved in the league and looks forward to further enhancing the competition to make them more competitive in the Caribbean leagues.”

Beaches FC and Cheshire Hall FC have both punched their tickets for the first two spots in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Teachers’ Young Strikers and 5-0 thrashing of Provo United respectively in the first two quarter finals.

Continue Reading

News

Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

Published

on

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The French Village main stage at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort was transformed into a dazzling beacon of green and gold as the resort celebrated its highest achievers. Under the inspiring banner of “One Team, One Vision, Endless Achievements,” the annual Prestige Awards recently closed the chapter on an exceptional 2025.

More than 120 nominees across twelve distinct categories walked the red carpet, greeted by flashing cameras and the cheering of their peers. The evening was laced with vibrant entertainment that kept the energy high between award presentations. Attendees were also treated to an exquisite five-course menu, carefully curated to match the prestige of the occasion and celebrate the rich culinary talent present at the resort.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to operate one of the premier family resorts in the Caribbean. General Manager Deryk Meany took the stage to address the audience while reflecting on a year of resilience, innovation and unparalleled guest service.

“This is a celebratory milestone that as leaders we are happy to share with the stars of the hospitality industry,” Meany shared. “You have shown the world the true mettle of leadership and commitment here at Beaches Turks and Caicos.”

To further recognize unique contributions to the resort’s operational success, Meany personally distributed the General Manager’s Special Awards. These honours were bestowed upon Eric ‘Cookie’ Johnson from the kitchen, Harriet Beeput from administration, and Javier Sarita from the entertainment department for their exceptional behind-the-scenes dedication.

The climax of the evening featured the announcement of the resort’s most prestigious overarching awards. Felipe Luzardo Neira from the kitchen took home the MVP of the Year (Manager of the Year) award, while Chad Peterkin from engineering and maintenance was named All-Rounder of the Year (Supervisor of the Year). The loyalty & travel department proved their collective strength by securing the A-Team of the Year title.

Individual team members were also recognized for their ultimate service standards. Deandra Astwood from the front office earned the Platinum Team Member of the Year award. The highest individual honour, Diamond Team Member of the Year, was awarded to Javain Campbell from the restaurant department. Campbell used his moment in the spotlight to highlight the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and community outreach.

“This accolade is a testament to the commitment and teamwork within all the departments of the resort,” Campbell noted after receiving his award. “The opportunity to volunteer at different Sandals Foundation activities as well as be a mentor to other team members means the world to me. This achievement will allow me to do more in leadership as I have been tasked with representing the entire team here at the resort.”

The Prestige Awards ensured that every facet of the resort’s operations received proper recognition. From environmental sustainability to guest entertainment, the specific category winners showcased a wide array of talents:

  • Movers & Shakers was awarded to Katherine ‘Tinkerbell’ Jiminez from the entertainment department
  • Legendary Team Member was secured by Kadian Smith from the restaurant
  • Circle of Joy went to Emanie Jocelyn Seide from security and loss prevention
  • Earth Guardian was claimed by Bernard Florvil from engineering and maintenance
  • Sandals Foundation Sentinel was awarded to Tanya Swann from administration
  • Standing Ovation Award was proudly accepted by Richard Myers from the laundry team
  • Money Maker Award went to Teesha McCallum-Hamilton from the resort shop
  • Heart of the House Hotel Manager’s Award was presented to Carlton Biggs from stewarding department
  • People’s Choice Award was won by Claire Ann Balones from the off site department
  • Pacesetter Award was given to Kassandra Henry from accounts & cost control
  • Founder’s Circle Award was claimed by Susan Outten from the restaurant

As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the rigorous selection process that led to the evening’s celebrations. The Prestige Awards do not merely look at a single moment of excellence, but rather evaluate a full twelve months of unwavering dedication to the guest experience. Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby highlighted the rewarding journey these team members took to reach the main stage.

“This event is a culmination of a number of activities for the resort’s leadership and the team members who have been exemplary and consistent throughout the year,” Coleby shared. “Congratulations are in order for each nominee as they have been crowned winners for the different months of 2025.”

With the trophies distributed and the 2025 season officially wrapped, the staff at Beaches Turks and Caicos now look forward. Fueled by the “One Team, One Vision” mantra, these award winners are already setting the standard for another year of endless achievements.

Continue Reading

Finance

TCI Financial Services Opens Debate on Cryptocurrency Rules 

Published

on

Turks and Caicos, May 12, 2026 – A new era of digital finance regulation could be on the horizon for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as the Financial Services Commission moves to establish a legal framework for virtual assets and cryptocurrency-related businesses.

The TCI Financial Services Commission on Friday launched a public consultation on its proposed Virtual Assets Business Bill, 2026, legislation designed to regulate virtual asset service providers, stablecoin issuers and other digital asset activities operating in or from the territory.

Globally, governments and regulators have been racing to catch up with the rapid growth of digital currencies, blockchain technology and online financial platforms. Concerns over money laundering, cybercrime, fraud and the collapse of poorly regulated crypto exchanges have pushed jurisdictions to tighten oversight while still trying to attract financial innovation and investment.

The proposed TCI bill appears aimed at positioning the territory within that evolving international framework.

According to the FSC, the legislation is aligned with international standards and guidance from bodies including the Financial Action Task Force, International Organization of Securities Commissions and the Financial Stability Board.

The Commission said the bill would introduce a “comprehensive licensing, supervisory, prudential and enforcement framework” for the sector. The proposed law includes anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations, cyber resilience requirements, enforcement measures and even a regulatory sandbox intended to support innovation.

Among the notable features are proposed reserve and governance rules for stablecoins, which are digital currencies typically tied to traditional assets like the US dollar. The draft legislation also outlines exemptions for certain technology providers and closed-loop token systems.

The FSC said the consultation period is intended to gather public and industry feedback before the bill is submitted to Cabinet next month. Written submissions must be received by June 8, 2026.

The consultation paper and draft bill have been published on the FSC website for public review.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING