PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11^th July 2025 – In a significant move to enhance the delivery of emergency medical care in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Ministry of Health and Human Services commissioned on 10^th July 2025 eight brand-new ambulances that will be deployed across the Islands. The commissioning ceremony included remarks from government leaders, underscoring the Governments continued commitment to strengthening healthcare and ensuring equitable access to emergency services.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, described the ambulances as “lifelines” which will dramatically improve response capabilities. “These vehicles are more than just equipment — they are lifelines that will connect our people to the urgent care they need, when they need it most,” said Minister Knowles. “By distributing these ambulances across all islands, we are ensuring that no resident is left behind in moments of critical need.”

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, also addressed the gathering and emphasized the transformative progress made within the Emergency Medical Services Department. “Access to timely emergency care can mean the difference between life and death. These new ambulances represent a tremendous step forward in expanding coverage and improving the quality of care,” stated the Governor. “Equally important is the remarkable improvement in the professionalism and standards of the service — a testament to the dedication and hard work of our EMS teams.”

The ambulances, procured through capital funding from the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, are part of a wider initiative to modernize emergency healthcare delivery and build resilience across the national healthcare system. The vehicles are equipped with essential lifesaving equipment and will be strategically positioned across Providenciales, Grand Turk, North Caicos, and South Caicos.

Director of Emergency Medical Services, Mr. Andy Brijmohansingh, expressed his appreciation for the continued investment in the EMS Department and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to ensuring the provision of high-quality care for all residents and visitors to the islands.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the health and well-being of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands through strategic development, professional training, and the deployment of essential medical resources.

Stay informed by visiting and following the Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE NATIONAL SECURITY SECRETARIAT

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 11^th July 2025: The Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment today celebrated a significant milestone in national security with the official commissioning of two new fast patrol boats at South Side Marina. Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam presided over the ceremony in her capacity as Commander in Chief of the TCI Regiment, joined by Her Excellency the Deputy Governor Anya Williams, the Honourable Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Control, Hon. Jamell Robinson, and Permanent Secretary for National Security, Tito Lightbourne.

The two state-of-the-art vessels, acquired from SAFE Boats International, have been named as a profound tribute to brave Turks and Caicos Islanders who made the ultimate sacrifice in global conflicts. The “George Henry” honors the only known Islander to have fallen in combat during the First World War, while the “Frederick Basden” commemorates one of four courageous Islanders who died during the Second World War. This act of naming not only provides a powerful link to the islands’ history but also serves as an enduring inspiration for current and future generations of the Regiment.

A pivotal moment of the ceremony was the formal inauguration of the TCI Regiment Maritime Troop, signaling a dedicated and enhanced focus on maritime operations and capabilities to safeguard the nation’s extensive marine domain.

Leaders Affirm Commitment to National Security

Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam underscored the strategic importance of this acquisition, emphasizing its role in bolstering the nation’s capacity to respond to a wide range of threats. “These vessels, now ready for active service, will significantly enhance our capacity to respond quickly and effectively to a range of maritime threats – from illegal fishing and illegal migration to more complex and evolving transnational challenges. Their deployment reflects our commitment to a safer, more secure maritime domain,” the Governor stated. She highlighted the unique maritime heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands, stressing the importance of complementing traditional skills with modern training. “Our investment in skills development – with the support of regional defence partners and the International Maritime Training Unit – is so critical. It ensures that our law enforcement agencies are not only capable mariners by tradition, but also modern professionals equipped to execute complex operations and uphold the highest standards of safety at sea.”

The Honourable Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Control, Hon. Jamell Robinson, passionately affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening national security. “I am pleased to be here today as we formally commission another vessel into service. Today’s action clearly and tangibly demonstrates this Government’s commitment to strengthening national security and law enforcement capability,” he declared. Deputy Premier Robinson emphasized the tangible impact of these investments: “These commissioning ceremonies are not symbolic. They represent the real and necessary work of governance, delivering results, enhancing operational readiness, and ensuring the safety of our people. With each new vessel added to the fleet, we expand the reach and responsiveness of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment.” He stressed the urgency given rising illegal maritime activity. “These assets are essential as illegal maritime activity, including unlawful entries into our territory, continues to rise. They allow for broader surveillance, faster response, and a more proactive posture in defending our borders.” He concluded with a powerful message of resolve: “We are not standing still. We are acting. Investing in our security infrastructure is not optional; it is an obligation. This Government will continue to provide the tools, training, and support required to meet the evolving threats we face… Let today serve as a reminder that Turks and Caicos are watching their shores. We are prepared. We are present. And we will protect what is ours.”

Permanent Secretary for National Security, Tito Lightbourne, expressed deep pride in this significant milestone for the TCI Government. “Today, we not only welcome these patrol vessels into active service; we also reaffirm our enduring pledge to safeguarding the waters and environment of the TCI, protecting our people, and upholding the rule of law across our maritime domain,” Mr. Lightbourne stated. He underscored the comprehensive nature of the project. “These patrol vessels are more than just forged steel, they represent security, stability, and sovereignty. They are the strategic vision of the Governor and Government and the product of careful planning by the TCI Regiment and the Police Maritime Unit, coupled with the hard work of Safe Boats International; all working together to strengthen our maritime presence and operational reach.” Addressing the Regiment’s personnel, he urged them to serve “responsibly, with professionalism, honor, and an unshakable sense of duty and pride,” and highlighted the Regiment’s cap badge. “The three spears of the trident represent power, strength and balance, all qualities engrained into the man and woman of the TCI Regiment.”

Commanding Officer’s Address A Vision Realized and Expanding Reach

The Commanding Officer of the TCI Regiment, Lt. Colonel Ennis Grant conveyed immense pride and a profound sense of purpose. He highlighted the official commissioning of the two vessels from SAFE Boats International and the launch of the TCI Regiment Maritime Troop, led by Lieutenant Zachery Rigby and the newly appointed Officer in Charge of Maritime Operations, Captain Dixie Smith. “This day marks a significant leap forward in our nation’s security and our commitment to safeguarding our precious maritime domain,” he affirmed.

He vividly recalled the early discussions and shared vision that brought the project to fruition, acknowledging Permanent Secretary Tito Lightbourne and former Governor Nigel Dakin for their foresight. He specifically lauded the current government’s “unconditional support for the development of the Regiment,” stating, “This government understands that investing in our Regiment is an investment in the future prosperity and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The Commanding Officer praised the intensive training undergone by Regiment personnel, which included rigorous Coxswain courses in Jamaica, comprehensive boat handling, boarding, and search procedures facilitated by the UK International Maritime Training Team, and crucial outboard engineering courses. “This comprehensive training regimen underscores our commitment to excellence and operational readiness,” he said.

He extended his deepest gratitude to all who contributed to this endeavor, including Permanent Secretary Tito Lightbourne, Assistant Superintendent of Police Everet Warrican, Ms. Leonica Selver, Ms. Moesha Morris, Ms. Angy Been, Mr. Keshad Pratt, and Mr. Scott Clanton from SAFE Boats International. He particularly thanked the government for their “unwavering support of our long-term vision and for approving the funding for these purchases,” and Her Excellency the Governor for “executing the contract and supporting our aspirations and making this vision a reality for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The Commanding Officer described the two new patrol vessels as “multi-role platforms, vital instruments in protecting our beloved Turks and Caicos Islands.” Their capabilities extend beyond traditional patrolling to include critical roles in disaster response, protecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, and significantly enhancing the ability to support partners in the Fisheries Department, Border Force, and Police in combating transnational organized crime, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and marine environmental crimes. He stressed the strategic focus on maintaining a proactive posture for maritime domain awareness and dominance.

In a forward-looking statement, the Commanding Officer announced the Regiment’s commitment to a secure maritime future. He confirmed the ongoing acquisition of an additional patrol vessel to Grand Turk scheduled to be completed in November 2025, which will further extend the Regiment’s reach and enhance maritime capabilities across all islands. This continued investment underscores the unwavering dedication to the security of the entire archipelago.

The Commanding Officer concluded by acknowledging the enduring partnership with SAFE Boats International, initiated in 2014, for delivering vessels “truly fit for our unique purpose and demanding environment.” He expressed profound gratitude to all members of the Regiment and the government for their unwavering commitment, celebrating “not just the launch of vessels, but the dawn of a new era of enhanced security and prosperity for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE NATIONAL SECURITY SECRETARIAT

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 11^th July 2025: The Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment (TCIR) is proud to announce that a contingent of 23 aspiring Marines departed the Islands on Friday, July 4, 2025, for a rigorous two-week recruit training course with the esteemed Royal Bermuda Regiment (RBR) in Bermuda. This marks a significant step in the continuous development and professionalization of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ burgeoning defense force.

Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and Her Excellency Anya Williams, Deputy Governor, were present at the send-off to offer their support and well wishes to the departing recruits. In her comments, Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam stated, “This deployment will not only support the training of new recruits but also continue to strengthen the important partnership between the Royal Bermuda Regiment and the TCI Regiment. It is inspiring to see so many new recruits stepping up to serve, reinforcing our commitment to building greater defence capability across our Islands. Together, we are forging stronger ties and preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.”

The intensive recruit training program in Bermuda will provide the new TCIR recruits with foundational military skills and instill the core values essential for a disciplined and effective defense force. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to challenge participants both mentally and physically, preparing them for the diverse roles they will undertake in safeguarding the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Key areas of initial training include:

• Values and Standards – Instilling the core principles of integrity, discipline, selfless commitment, and respect that underpin military service.
• Skill at Arms – Fundamental instruction and practice in weapon handling, marksmanship, and safe operational procedures.
• Fieldcraft – Essential outdoor survival and tactical skills, including camouflage, concealment, and basic field living.
• Physical Fitness – A demanding program to build strength, endurance, and resilience, crucial for all military operations.
• Land Navigation – Training in map reading, compass use, and GPS navigation to ensure proficiency in diverse terrains.
• Foot Drills – Precision marching, parade ground movements, and ceremonial drills to foster discipline and cohesion.
• First Aid – Essential life-saving medical skills for combat and humanitarian scenarios.
• Teamwork and Leadership – Exercises designed to develop cohesion, communication, and leadership qualities from an early stage.

“This collaborative training initiative with the Royal Bermuda Regiment is an invaluable opportunity for our new recruits,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Ennis Grant, Commanding Officer, Turks, and Caicos Islands Regiment. “The RBR’s extensive experience and well-established training programs will provide our future Marines with a robust foundation, ensuring they are well-equipped to uphold the highest standards of defense, border protection, and disaster relief for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment remains committed to investing in its personnel, fostering a highly trained and professional force capable of responding to the nation’s security needs and contributing to regional stability. The recruits are expected to return to the Turks and Caicos Islands ready to apply their newfound skills and integrate into the Regiment’s ongoing operations.