TCI News

TCI Governor on the Science of COVID-19; Statement made April 1

Published

3 years ago

April 2, 2020

#TurksandCaicosIslands – FULL STATEMENT :

Good evening Turks and Caicos, it’s the Governor speaking, speaking on behalf of both myself and also the Premier. The Premier will talk on Friday about the support and stimulus package.

From me a Wednesday evening update for you. This is our fifth day of lockdown and curfew. So far so good – and the first thing to say is thank you. We are collectively doing the right thing. It’s causing, we know, inconvenience and in some cases serious hardship. Most people I speak to understand instinctively why we are doing this but we thought we would use tonight to try and describe the underpinning facts of why we are doing what we are doing.

The Science:

If you can bear it, a quick science lesson – because it’s the science that is guiding us on this. You’ll have heard lots of people describe ‘flattening the curve’. As far as I can, I want to describe to you what that means and why what we are doing does this.

All virus’s spread at different rates. There is a scientific scale of measuring infection – this isn’t random – so, for example, measles is ‘nine’ which means that we would expect one measles case to infect nine others. For Influenza the infection rate is 1.3. If the rate is ‘one’ then one person infects one other person. A figure less than ‘one’ means the disease is in decline and may die out.

COVID19 is thought to be around 2.2. Much less infectious than measles but considerably more infectious than influenza. What this means is that, on average, one infected person passes it on to 2.2 other people. As with all statistics that quote averages this means that there may be many people that only pass it on to one, and one person that passes it on to many, but as I say the global average is 2.2

You see this in the way COVID19 spreads. One person infects two, two people infect four, those four infect eight (in fact because it’s an infection rate of 2.2 it’s now starting to become more than simply doubling) so let’s say that eight cases becomes 17 and then 17 becomes 37. You get the picture, we now have a very dramatic rise as we saw in Italy and in cities such as New York. It’s out of the cage and it’s spreading and multiplying at a factor of 2.2. Not good.

The number one purpose of everything you are doing is to change the maths on this spread. What we need to do is bring this down from 2.2 to certainly under 1.5, in truth we want to get it to under one. But Below 1.5 we can start to impose ourselves on this virus and bring it under control. We have to do that because our medical services can manage a much flattened curve but they couldn’t possibly manage the sort of increase I described as it grew at 2.2

The good news is that all the medical opinion we can draw on – here in the Island, public and private, and that expertise we can draw on elsewhere, including some very eminent epidemiologists in the UK, tell us that TCI is doing all the right things to achieve this. We got ahead of it and we clamped down on it, and if we can hold the line we are going to not only get through but present an example to the world about how to do this.

Separate to this there is a secondary benefit. The better the lockdown we achieve, the more chance there will be that we generate in the population a slow-burn immunity that builds over time. These will be people who have in some way been exposed to the virus but have either had no symptoms or very mild symptoms.

It’s reasonable I think for us to assume, given how large our tourist sector was, that the virus must have been on the Islands before it was first properly identified. Some immunity will have been starting to develop.

With testing – coming in from the UK and also being procured from the US – there’s sophisticated modelling that can explain this and as we reach a tipping point we will know that. While there will continue to be cases in TCI, there will be sufficient immunity in the population to prevent its rapid spread here. We will be seeking data to make smart decisions around this.

With the Territory having developed its own immunity – with the borders still closed – we can start to restart the local economy and get money moving through and round it. Businesses will be able to open. Fear of each other will subside.

Indeed, these Islands are small enough, the measures we have all taken together restrictive enough, and the data we may be able to collect around immunity important enough, that it may well be that TCI becomes an example of how to do this – that does our brand – as an extraordinary place and a healthy place to visit – no end of good.

It also allows us to start to see a medium term future where a tourist visiting TCI who we know is safe can come to an extraordinary destination that they know is not only beautiful, but is safe. But let’s be honest with each other that’s some way off in the future although something we are working towards.

Adjustment to the Regulations

Laws can help moderate and guide behaviour but it’s by far best when a people know why they are doing something than be told to do something. Self-denial, self-discipline and good judgement are so much more powerful than say the threat of vehicle confiscation. Please, err on the side of caution. Because you can do something doesn’t mean you necessarily should do something.

We said we’d keep everything we were doing under review and we have been. Broadly we think we are in the right place. Matters that have now become clearly the way to do things – which haven’t caused enormous inconvenience but have severely cut down traffic and movement – we yesterday captured in law; so, for example, you may not drive to your place of exercise.

We have removed takeaways, drive-throughs and restaurants from being described as an essential service. From the last few days it’s clear they aren’t – we can get by until the end of this period without them, wonderful as they are.

We do it based on medical and Policing advice. With TCI Islanders and Residents being the sociable society we are, some risk becoming the equivalent of the local bar, the spot some meet and engage, and it also gives a license for movement we could not reasonably police.

This covers every form of takeaway, no exceptions. There is the possibility of the Governor granting exceptions but I think that will be unlikely over this period of lockdown unless it’s in direct support of an effort to alleviate hunger.

It’s also now clear in the law that you have to be on a route from your home to your allowed destination (a supermarket is the best example). Much of this ‘law’ wasn’t required because people were demonstrating great common sense but it is a tidying up exercise for those who might take advantage, a week or so in. Beyond that we’ve kept matters very much as they are. It’s working.

We had an interesting piece of false news start to generate today. It wasn’t malicious just wrong and it originated from a South African website – that isn’t a recognised authority on medical statistics.

To be clear, we still have only 5 (five) confirmed cases in TCI. The authoritative way to know – what our health professionals on the front line know – is the TCI dashboard that we disseminate daily and is on the MOH website. Please stick to TCI sources, we hold the data because we collect the data. We want the public to know.

This wasn’t malicious or dangerous it was just wrong. There have though been several instances on social media recently that haven’t just been wrong they’ve been dangerous. Before focussing on the tiny number who are malicious amongst us, let me say somethuing about the vast majority.

This is not the time to stifle decent debate – indeed the future of these Islands are starting to be decided during this time in terms of whether we remain safe, recover, and can once again prosper.

But what this short period is not, is an opportunity for us to stigmatise anyone who has COVID19. For all you know you may be one of the fortunate that had it, suffered few if any symptoms, but passed it on to others. Or – if we all lose control of this through our casualness – it’s very probably true that it will be someone very close to you, who you love, that ends up with this virus. It doesn’t discriminate.

If you see someone originating or spreading hate or misinformation, designed to cause fear, then there is now a Police Unit – well skilled in following leads across the internet – that you can report to. Their email is: pofscovid19@tcipolice.tc. That’s pofscovid19@tcipolice.tc

Stopping the Sloops

I’ll finish on one point I flagged yesterday on Social Media. A large sloop of many hundreds was turned around yesterday on the High Seas between here and Haiti. I was on a call today with the US Ambassador and US Coast Guard in Bahamas; the number of combined assets we have operating presently in this space has significantly increased. That frustrating battle continues every night – we should be more proud of those involved in this work tonight, than ever. But for those who can connect to Haiti do send them the message. You have our continued attention and you will be stopped.

As of tonight we are okay. We are in a much better position than many others. In terms of health, we can see a route through this, not through hope but through understanding the science, determined to capitalise by doing this once and doing this right. That’s what you are doing TCI; you are a resilient lot and resilience is the order of the day for the next few weeks. The reward is there if we stay firm; as firm we must.

Day five is drawing to a close and day six is soon to begin – soon we will be announcing the end of the first week. We can do this.

Good night TCI

Related Topics:#caribbeanhealth #coronavirus #magneticmedianews #tcigovernor #tcinews

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Beaches TCI Prestige Awards, an Intergalactic Experience

Published

18 seconds ago

September 24, 2023

Deandrea Hamilton

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: The Open Air Theatre at Beaches Turks and Caicos (BTC) was transformed into a dazzling and elegant intergalactic setting beckoning those who ‘dared to travel beyond the mundane.’ The event was the resort’s annual Prestige Awards celebrations. The venue exuded opulence with all the tapestries being accentuated by glittering chandeliers and lush floral arrangements. The spectacularly decorated venue with flashing lights was synonymous to that of the Oscars or Golden Globe Awards.

As team members arrived with their guests, they were greeted by photographers who lined the red carpet. They were interviewed and entertained by red carpet host, Antoinette Thomas who otherwise serves as the human resources recruitment and compliance specialist. Guests were dressed to the nines and they clearly understood the mission and came ready to represent the event’s theme, “Soaring to Excellence”. Gentlemen were dapperly attired in their suits and bedazzled blazers while the ladies were sophisticatedly attired in their flowing ball gowns.

The crowning moment of the evening saw Front Office supervisor Hardsen Martial being named Diamond Team Member of the Year. Said Martial, “this is one of the most rewarding periods of my career within this industry. Every team member here at BTC is challenged to be the best each day. I remained consistent, the guests recognised my professionalism and the management of the resort saw it fitting to present me with this award. I’m truly grateful for this recognition.”

Masters of Ceremony for the night were Patricia Smith and Obrien Forbes, both connoisseurs of the art. They navigated the ‘spacecraft’ safely through the awards ceremony, interspersed by performances and several jocular moments.

The Prestige Awards is the largest, resort-driven, team-member event that celebrates excellence and honours those who continually go beyond the call of duty. The Prestige Awards is a culmination of the monthly awards that acknowledge the hard work of staff members. General Manager, James McAnally in his welcome, commended all nominees and thanked the staff for being such excellent team players. Awardees received cash prizes, framed certificates, trophies and an assortment of gifts.

The category winners are as follows:

Diamond Team Member of the Year Award- Front Office supervisor Hardsen Martial
Platinum Team Member of the Year Award – Learning & Development Clerk Alex Bernadin
Mover and Shaker of the Year Award – Security supervisor Rammeshee Thompson
Legendary Team Member of the Year Award – Concierge supervisor Richard Rowe
Circle of Joy of the Year Award – Houseman Gener Mondelus
Earth Guardian of the Year Award – Guest Experience manager Patricia Smith
Sandals Foundation Sentinel of the Year Award – Spray Technician Lloyd Wisdom
Standing Ovation Award – Assistant Food & Beverage Director Ancell Williams
Money Maker Award – Spa therapist Swean Wright-Frazer
Heart of the House Award – Finance Administrator Walner Registre
The People’s Choice Award – Butler Melissa Codner
Pace Setter of the Year Award – Assistant HR Manager Roxanne Wade
All Rounder of the Year Award – Assistant Steward Manager Dionne Lawson
Founder’s Circle Award – Chef Eric “Fortune Cookie” Johnson
MVP of the Year Award – Restaurant Manager Shereka Dobson
The ‘A’ Team of the Year Award – Grounds Department

Commenting on the success of the evening’s event, Tanya Swann, director of sales, noted that the outcome of the programme exceeded her already very high expectations. “To say we soared to excellence for the Prestige Awards would be an understatement. This event was beyond excellent. Thanks to the hard work of the human resources department, under the management of Owenta Coleby and all other departments that gave very strong support to ensure that our colleagues had a memorable night.”

Owenta Coleby, HR manager, stated that it was only fitting that team members be given the best because they are expected to give of their best. “I am very pleased with the success of the event,” she stated. “At Beaches Turks and Caicos, we work hard and play hard. We are already preparing to deliver an awe- inspiring, jaw dropping Prestige Awards for 2024.”

Photo Captions:

Header: Beaches Turks and Caicos Prestige winners share a moment with General Manager (centre seated) at the culmination of the resort’s prestige awards

1st insert: Member of the Beaches Turks and Caicos resort Grounds department, Spray Technician Lloyd Wisdom (left) and Assistant Manager Kemar Jones accept their reward from General Manager James McAnally as they were crowned A-Team of the year at the resort’s annual prestige awards

2nd insert: Front Office Supervisor, Hardsen Martial (left) who was crowned Diamond Team member of the year accepts his accolades from General Manager James McAnally at the resort

3rd insert: Members of the Beaches Turks and Caicos Entertainment team show off their skills in one of the activity during the resort’s annual prestige awards celebrations

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Invest TCI Participates in USA-Caribbean Investment Forum 2023, Fostering Partnerships for Sustainable Development

Published

11 mins ago

September 24, 2023

Deandrea Hamilton

#TurksandCaicos, September 24, 2023 – Invest Turks and Caicos proudly announces its participation in the USA-Caribbean Investment Forum, held on September 15-16, 2023, at the New York Marriott Marquis in New York City. This prestigious event, hosted by The Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA), brought together a diverse array of investors, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders united by a common goal: to explore and capitalize on the wealth of opportunities available within the Caribbean region.

Representing Invest Turks and Caicos at the event were CEO Angela Musgrove and Legal & Compliance Officer, Judith Campbell. Their presence exemplified Invest Turks and Caicos’ commitment to facilitating investment and promoting the growth of the Turks & Caicos Islands.

A pivotal moment during the forum was the enlightening address delivered by the Hon. E. Jay Saunders, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, Investment & Trade of the Turks & Caicos Islands. Hon. Saunders passionately discussed the imperative need for the diaspora to invest and engage in business within their countries of origin, underlining the numerous benefits and potential that come with investing in the Caribbean. His insightful remarks were met with great enthusiasm and appreciation from the attendees.

Commenting on their participation, CEO Angela Musgrove stated, “The USA-Caribbean Investment Forum has been an exceptional platform for Invest Turks and Caicos to showcase the exciting investment opportunities that our islands offer. It also provided an opportunity to discuss how we may increase partnerships and opportunities for the attraction of diaspora investments. We are committed to forging meaningful partnerships that drive sustainable development in the Caribbean region, and this event has been instrumental in advancing our mission.”

Invest Turks and Caicos remains dedicated to promoting investment, economic development, and partnerships within the Turks & Caicos Islands. The participation in the USA-Caribbean Investment Forum 2023 marks another step towards achieving these goals and contributing to the sustained development of the Caribbean region.

For more information about Invest Turks and Caicos, please visit www.investturksandcaicos.tc

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TCIFA to Host First Annual Awards Gala In Aid of Youth Development

Published

16 mins ago

September 24, 2023

Deandrea Hamilton

#TurksandCaicos, September 24, 2023 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) will be hosting the Inaugural Awards Gala Ball, honoring members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Community who have demonstrated leadership, vision, dedication and outstanding achievement under the theme “Continuing a Legacy of Excellence.” The event will take place on Friday, October 13^th at the Shore Club Ball Room, featuring a Welcome Reception and four-course Awards Dinner; promising to be an exciting evening. Seats and tables are opened to the general public for purchase.

The Awards Gala will serve as one of TCIFA’s biggest fundraising initiative in support its Youth Development Programs, and is expected to become an annual celebration. Currently, football grassroots/ youth programs are conducted on the islands of Providenciales, Grand Turk, South Caicos and North/Middle Caicos. TCIFA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to develop football throughout the entire Turks & Caicos Islands, encouraging positive youth involvement in society. In order to meet its mission, and provide for the Youth Development Football Programmes, the FA relies heavily on its fundraising efforts, and community support.

In attendance to the Awards Gala, will be The President of Concacaf and Vice-President of FIFA, Victor Montagliani. The event will also see the presence of international football celebrities Davis Dein and Andrew “Andy Cole.”

David Barry Dein, former Co-Owner and Vice-Chairman of Arsenal Football Club, was instrumental in convincing some of the world’s greatest talents to join the club, and transforming it into what it is today, on and off the pitch. Arsenal is seen as an example of a leading club in world football and is admired around the world. Dein was also a one of the major architects of the FA Premier League in 1992, reshaping the structure and finances of English football; and a former Vice-Chairman of the Football Association (The FA). Additionally, he spent some time as President of the G-14 group of European football clubs sitting on various committees within FIFA and UEFA, including UEFA’s Club Competition Committee and Executive Committee. In 2010, Dein was appointed as international President of England’s 2018 World Cup Bid.

Dein continues to remain active on the football scene, providing his views on the future of football around the world, whether it be via interviews, conferences, or public speaking engagements.

Andrew “Andy” Cole is a former English professional striker, playing from 1988-2008. He spent six years with Manchester United after being transferred from Newcastle United, and won nine trophies including the Treble of the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League in 1999. He also played in the top division of English football for Arsenal, Blackburn Rovers, Fulham, Manchester City, Portsmouth and Sunderland, as well as in the Football League for Bristol City, Birmingham City, Burnley and Nottingham Forest. He is the fourth-highest goal-scorer in Premier League History with 187 goals, and held the Premier League records for most goals scored in a 42-game season (34) before year 2023, and fastest to score 50 goals (65 matches), as well as being the first player to top the Premier League’s goalscoring charts and assist charts in the same season in their own right in 1993-4.

Cole has the distinction of being one of the few players in England to have swept all possible honors in the English game, including the PFA Young Player of the Year awards, as well as coveted UEFA Champions League title. Cole was also capped 15 times for the England National Team between 1995 and 2001, scoring once against Albania in a 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Cole announced his retirement from football, ending his 19-year career, in November 2008.

To secure seats/tables, contact the TCIFA offices at (649)941-5532, or WhatsApp (649)333-0244.

For more information, please contact TCIFA Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Candia Ewing at 941-5532 or cewingtcifa@gmail.com

Address:

TCIFA National Academy

Venetian Road

Providenciales

Turks and Caicos Islands