#Barbados, February 17, 2020 — Three TCI approved projects employing the technical assistance of the Caribbean Development Bank are in limbo due to a lack of available expertise within the Turks and Caicos Islands, explained the CBD director at its Annual Press Conference held on February 11 in Barbados.
Daniel Best, Director of Projects at the
Caribbean Development Bank revealed that efforts are being considered at CDB to
help countries through the stagnating challenge of limited human resources,
which adversely affect implementation and completion of critical projects.
Strong turn out for town meeting related to problems with Providenciales dump
“We have within our member countries,
unfortunately, some capacity issues and it is not limited to TCI, this is across
the board. One of the things we are
doing as a bank is seeking how we can be more responsive to not just the infrastructure
or social needs but to the capacity needs,” said Mr. Best.
Magnetic Media quizzed Mr. Best about progress
on two of the three projects; the first, the Coastal Protection and Management
Technical Assistance which has been approved since 2016. While it is the most advanced, progress is slow
going for the construction of vital sea defences.
CDB Annual News Conference held Tuesday February 11, 2020 at HQ in Barbados
“All of the capital projects funded by the Caribbean
Development Bank undergo a climate vulnerability assessment and climate risk
screening, so this project would be one, when it gets to the capital projects
stage… (it) would be one that incorporates climate action. We are continuing the dialogue to drive this
particular intervention and others forward, so we really hope to see some
traction on that in this calendar year,” said Best.
In July 2017, the Premier and Finance
Minister, Sharlene Robinson informed the House of Assembly: “Mr.
Speaker that the Government is advancing is the loan assistance related to
Climate Resilient Coastal Protection and Management that we had hoped would
have been before us today for debate. This technical assistance will
focus on a feasibility study and prepare designs for coastal protection works
on the islands of Grand Turk, Salt Cay and Providenciales. Shoreline
management plans for the Islands will also form part of this technical
assistance.”
Three years later and the CDB Director admits
that the project still has a distance to go.
Daniel Best said plans are to work with the Turks and Caicos Islands
Government for project submissions to source designs for coastal defences.
FILE PHOTO
The second venture, a Solid Waste Management
Project is also severely waylaid by this human resource deficiency and that
fact will be particularly jarring for the people of northwestern
Providenciales, which is home to the communities of Wheeland and Blue Hills. Residents, across the islands are hopeful for
a remedy to longstanding qualms about management of dump sites.
Severe respiratory health problems resulting from smoke and fumes emanating from fires in and around the Providenciales Landfill have raised public interest in the approved Solid Waste Management Technical Assistance contract with the CDB.
Government panel at town meeting in 2019
“Unfortunately that project has not
progressed as fast as we would have wanted it to; the TA (technical assistance)
has been approved and we are in the process of working with the TCI to procure
consultants, to engage consultants,” informed Mr. Best.
“Arduous” is the way ahead for the solid
waste management assistance, the CDB Project Director explained.
Within the July 2017 ministerial statement,
Premier Sharlene Robinson announced the project and in 2019, the Technical Assistance
for Solid Waste Management was approved at the Cabinet level.
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From the July 26, 2017
ministerial statement to the House of Assembly: “Mr.
Speaker, Solid Waste Management involves everybody throughout the length and
breadth of these Islands, and it is my Government’s intention to advance a
technical assistance loan from the Bank to assist us in updating the waste
management strategy for the country as well as designing the best option for
waste disposal on each Island.
Our
Islands do not always depict our country’s tagline and as we clean up the
streets and communities, we must put in place proper management systems that
will address littering, indiscriminate dumping and management of landfills also
known for us as dump sites. Public education and fines will also be hallmarks
of the new Policy.”
Since then, the widespread
destruction and reconstruction resulting from Hurricanes Irma and Maria have generated
a substantial increase in the amount of debris being hauled to the dump site.
Additionally, the hazardous
practice of igniting coal kiln fires, suspicion of arson and spontaneously
combusting spot fires have worked to accelerated air pollution and community
frustration.
Doctor visits and respiratory cases have climbed among residents of the area; though in recent months, there has been a decline in instances of foul odors and toxic air.
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“There may be need for some
support in the country and this is one where we will certainly be putting a
lens on to see how we can actually get it moving faster,” the comment from Mr.
Best in response to Magnetic Media’s conveyance of public anxieties.
Daniel Best added, “I hear you
and I agree. It is an environmental
concern. It may not be a hurricane or a
cyclone, but it is an environmental concern and it is one that the CDB is
committed to working with the government of the TCI to resolve.”
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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.
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.
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.