Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer 

#TurksandCaicos, April 19th, 2024 – Tradition has been flipped on its head for the 2024/25 Budget Debate following a refusal by Government Ministers and the Opposition Leader to debate the spending sheet, and the public is left holding the short end of the stick.

Following a tradition of transparency mirrored across the globe in different governments,  parliamentary front benchers usually speak directly to what funds allocated to their ministries will be used for, outline the benefits to the general public and even update on progresses over the preceding fiscal period but not so in the Turks and Caicos Islands this time around.

The National Budget and its breakdown in spending is the heart and head of the sitting administration and without it, nothing can be achieved and yet, there was on Wednesday April 17, one day after the official communication by the finance minister, total radio silence.

“[They] sat there in silence all day and refused to give an account of their ministries or constituencies to the electorate in the final budget debate after collecting hefty salaries for the last 3+ years,” said one angry resident responding to the unusual display.

The decision not to speak means the public has no idea how ministers plan to use the $485 million of the people’s money that they’ve been allotted this year.

Many are livid.

“Them PNP ministers didn’t report on their budgets because they ain’t do ***** for their constituents, so they don’t have ***** to report. Report card score is zero O,” ranted one individual.

Others were just as disappointed in Edwin Astwood, the Opposition Leader.

“It is shameful that the Leader of the Opposition didn’t come prepared to deliver his rebuttal to the Premier’s speech; and to make matters worse, he had the audacity to go on live interview during lunch and say he wasn’t prepared,” said one resident.

Astwood defended his decision to the public.

“Instead of myself getting up and speaking right after the Premier and then you would have eight or nine persons speak after me, spinning a different story, I said, as the Leader of the Opposition I need to be able to address the Premier and all his ministers.”

That didn’t happen and the debate was shockingly wrapped up with only contributions from the Premier, in his capacity as finance minister, and the two Governor’s Appointed Members.

The entire fiasco was apparently brought down by the change in protocol, where Astwood, who usually speaks before the Ministers, asked to speak after them instead so that he could respond to them all in full. It’s a decision that was accepted by the Speaker and which Astwood says he informed the Ministers of as well.

“They were afraid of me speaking after them and they were saying ‘We’re gonna make sure you speak before us.’ I told them ‘If you don’t get up, I am not getting up.’ This is your Budget. You need to tell the people how you are spending their money in your current ministry,” he said.

Astwood accused them of ‘playing chicken’ while some Residents couldn’t comprehend the actions of either side.  A choice to break with tradition and play tit for tat over respectfully seizing the opportunity to inform the Electorate what was to be done with public funds over the next 12 months.

“You mean to tell me that Seven (7) Ministers, Six (6) Elected Backbenchers, and 1 PNP Appointed Member were terrified to speak before the Leader of the Opposition because he would have torn their speeches apart???” asked a resident.

As the story evolves some residents applaud Astwood for standing his ground.

“The Leader of the Opposition did absolutely the right thing.  His insistence that the Ministers should defend the budget was correct and he was right to “Break with Tradition,” to let them all speak and then Reply.  It is a good move for democracy and accountability,” a TC resident explained

In response to the confusion and outrage, the government released the following statement late Tuesday.

“If there is no one willing to speak, a decision is made by the Speaker to advise members of his intention to close the debate. The mover is then asked to wrap up the debate on the motion. Today, this is what occurred in the House of Assembly.”

On Wednesday when we sought clarification on the matter Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development told us, “We will be in Committee as of 10 am today. Debate on the second reading of the bill is completed.”

When we asked why Robinson decided to forgo his speech he told us this, “What took place yesterday was very unfortunate as the Leader of the Opposition chose our 4th budget presentation to try and break a long-standing convention. As for residents, I have already begun distributing relevant information in relation to what is in store for Budget 2024/25 from an Infrastructure standpoint.”

No other official statements have come from the ministers regarding the decision though Magnetic Media has reached out to all of them.

Ministerial Statement April 18^th, 2024

Mr. Speaker, fellow colleagues, strangers in the gallery, and the citizens of our great nation, it is indeed a great day here in these islands and certainly a privilege to be in the Nation’s Capital, here in the people’s house to deliver on behalf of the people of this country. Mr. Speaker, I align myself with the condolences expressed, particularly to the Freites family here in Grand Turk, especially Ms. Elizabeth whom we work very closely with in the Premier’s Office.

Proverbs 21:5 reads; “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Mr. Speaker, this scripture emphasizes the importance of careful planning and diligence in managing the finances of this country. We are fully cognizant, Mr. Speaker, that the public purse belongs to the people and so we have diligently strategized how we will not only spend but invest every cent into the development of this country and its citizens. As I rise today, Mr. Speaker, I am excited as Minister of Physical Planning & Infrastructure Development, imbued with a profound sense of responsibility and a distinct vision for the future of our country’s infrastructure. Our mandate is clear: to build and maintain the physical foundation upon which our society thrives. Our commitment is to enhance the quality of life for each citizen, to develop our communities, and to strengthen the backbone of our economy; our infrastructure.

Mr. Speaker, there are several Departments under our Ministry’s purviews. Allow me to take this Honorable House through our achievement and our goals over the next fiscal year.

 *Department of Planning: **

The Department of Planning is tasked with formulating comprehensive and sustainable development plans across the country. In our quest to make services more accessible and transparent, the department will enhance data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement to ensure that our planning processes are inclusive and responsive to our citizens’ needs. Mr. Speaker, this new application system will enable the Department to automate plan submissions, review and approve during the processes. Users will be able to import plans and supporting documents directly into the system where they are automatically organized and routed to the appropriate viewers. Through these efforts, community development and infrastructure initiatives will be accelerated. This new electronic plan review system will transform the planning process and support efficient collaboration and improve public transparency. This initiative will enable us to build more resilient and vibrant communities for the future. This, Mr. Speaker, is the work of a progressive Government.

Over the past year, The Department has been working closely with the informal settlements unit to address these settlements within our communities. One hundred and sixty-five (165) structures have been identified for demolition, two hundred and eighteen (218) enforcement notices have been issued, three cases progressed before the court and twelve (12) penalty fines distributed totaling seventy-five thousand dollars. Mr. Speaker, this is a government in action.

Mr. Speaker, we have made progress in advancing the review and amendment of the National Physical Development Plan 2020 to make changes to the zoning of specific parcels. These amendments will facilitate sustainable urban development while ensuring compliance with local regulations and addressing community needs as they arise. This has already been noted in Cabinet and will progress to the next stages. They say the proof is in the pudding? Well, it just got sweeter because we are delivering for the people and doing more in 2024.

**Department of Housing and Community Renewal: **

Affordable housing and community renewal are key priorities for our government. The Department of Housing and Community Renewal will receive significant funding to support the development of affordable housing projects, improve community infrastructure, and revitalize blighted areas. We are committed to ensuring that all our citizens have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing options. Mr. Speaker, following the successful launch of the National Housing Policy, the Department has made significant strides in achieving its objectives. The application process was opened to the public and eleven (11) applications were received for program 1, three hundred and thirty-two (332) applications under program 2 and thirty-eight (38) expressions of interest in program 3. Of the 332 applications received, 289 were shortlisted. These applications have been grouped into batches and repairs for the first batch of applicants are due to commence shortly. The Cabinet has approved the proposal to streamline the allocation of Crown Land for Housing Development from recommendations made during the public consultation. Vehicles for this department have been tendered and we hope to have them mobilized very soon to assist with conducting site inspections during the construction phase of these projects. The Department has proposed a detailed concession package for developers under our program 1 which will incentivize their participation along with other benefits. Mr. Speaker, I know some people here are like doubting Thomas; they need to see it to believe but things are happening in this department. We are developing an online application portal to streamline the submission process of applications where the public and potential developers can upload all attachments from one location, minimizing errors and improving efficiency. Mr. Speaker, an affordability index is also being developed by the Housing Department to determine what constitutes affordable housing across the various islands and constituencies considering factors such as housing costs, household size etc. and this is being done in collaboration with the Statistics Authority.  It’s been a long time coming but change is here.

**Department of Estates Management: **

The efficient management of government estates is essential for the effective delivery of public services. The Department of Estates Management will receive additional resources to maintain and upgrade government buildings, improve efficiency, and ensure a conducive working environment for civil servants. We will also explore opportunities to optimize the use of government assets. Mr. Speaker, our public service is growing, Ministries and Departments are outgrowing their current workspaces, and Estates Management must move quickly to secure comfortable working environments for staff across the Government. To this end, a sum of $5.4M has been allocated for rental spaces to ensure that our people are in suitable environments to carry out the work that they are expected to produce. This is an increase of 15% over last year’s outturns.  Mr. Speaker, within the last fiscal year, attempts were made to privatize janitorial services, however, because we are a government who seeks to do things and do it well; we’ve met some challenges during the process and therefore made the decision to delay this project until the appropriate mechanisms have been established.

**Public Works Department: **

The Public Works Department which is responsible for the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure have an allocated sum of over $7M to support the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, expand access to underserved areas, and enhance resilience in infrastructure projects. Our goal is to create a robust and reliable infrastructure network that supports economic growth and social development.

**Mechanical Department: **

The Mechanical Department plays a crucial role in maintaining and repairing essential mechanical systems in government buildings and infrastructure. We have allocated funds for the procurement of new equipment to improve the standards of the mechanical workshops across the islands by conducting repairs to the facilities and procuring heavy duty and specialist equipment. Training of personnel, and the implementation of preventive maintenance programs to ensure the efficient operation of mechanical systems across the country is also a priority for this division. We have commenced the preparation for a new government fleet which will include streamlining the procurement process, reviewing the existing fleet and preparing for the support of plug-in hybrid units and eventually move towards electric capabilities. Mr. Speaker, we are currently working assiduously to finalize the vehicle policy that will apply to ministries across government. It has already been drafted and circulated and will move to its final stages to be submitted to Cabinet for approval.

**Project Management Department: **

Effective project management is essential for the successful implementation of infrastructure projects. The Project Management Department will receive increased funding to strengthen project oversight, improve coordination among stakeholders, and enhance the monitoring and evaluation of projects. We are committed to delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Mr. Speaker, this budget allocation will facilitate training and certification of our staff compliment in FIDIC contracts, project management PMI and PMP from the project Management Institute, RICS for quantity Surveyors and Estimators, and other technical areas across various disciplines to ensure they remain current with standard procedures and industry practices.

**Maintenance Department: **

The Maintenance Department plays a vital role in ensuring the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of public infrastructure assets. We have increased funding for routine maintenance activities, repair works, and asset management programs to prolong the lifespan of infrastructure assets and reduce long-term maintenance costs. We are committed to ensuring that our infrastructure remains safe, functional, and sustainable for years to come.

Firstly, Mr. Speaker, the maintenance of schools and other public buildings is not just an investment in bricks and mortar; it is an investment in our future generations. Therefore, we are dedicating a significant portion of our budget to ensure that our educational facilities are not only safe and conducive to learning but are also equipped to inspire and nurture the leaders of tomorrow. We will be upgrading classrooms, improving sanitation facilities, and ensuring that our schools are technologically ready to meet the demands of modern education.

Secondly, Mr. speaker, we are acutely aware that our nation is no stranger to the wrath of nature. Hurricane shelters are a critical aspect of our disaster preparedness strategy. This year, we are increasing funds allocated to the strengthening and expansion of our hurricane shelters. These sanctuaries must be capable of withstanding the severest of storms, offering a haven to those whose homes are threatened.

In the realm of road maintenance, our budget reflects an understanding that well-maintained roads are the arteries of our economy facilitating daily commutes. We are earmarking substantial resources for the repair and resurfacing of roads, and the implementation of modern traffic management solutions to reduce congestion and enhance safety. Mr. Speaker, $2M has been allocated for the initial phase of solar streetlights across constituencies, $2M for road paving and grading, an additional $1.35M in the Framework Agreement to aid in the delivery of the Public Work Ordinance. We aren’t talking small change Mr. Speaker; we are spending big money.

Moreover, community enhancement is a testament to our belief in not just the functionality, but also the spirit of our public spaces. We are significantly increasing the budget to beautify parks, create public recreational facilities, and revitalize communal spaces. These projects are designed to foster community pride, encourage social cohesion, and promote improved family lifestyles.

Disaster Management & Emergencies

As Minister with responsibilities for the Department of Disaster Management, I am pleased to report Mr. speaker that we have given this Department two new homes in both Grand Turk and Providenciales through the purchase of a building that will serve as the headquarters and office space and the eminent relocation. Now the team will have adequate space for effective coordination of responses to emergencies. Strategic investments are at the core of this government, focusing on long-term benefits rather than short-term gains.

Mr. speaker with a designated $1.4M for generators and housing we are ensuring that the department is equipped with the necessary resources to effectively navigate any potential adverse outcomes. We are also relocating the Grand Turk team to their new office space. The budget delineates clear priorities, earmarking funds for crucial sectors such as disaster management; considering the investments outlined earlier along with significant funding for the maintenance and upkeep of our registered shelters.

Policy, Planning & Technical Support

In alignment with our national vision and development goals, we have formulated robust policies aimed at guiding the sustainable growth and modernization of our ministry’s capabilities. We have adopted a comprehensive approach and recognized that the successful implementation of our ambitious agenda requires not only vision but also technical expertise. Therefore, $1.8M earmarked for professional and consultancy affords us the opportunity to provide greater support to projects going forward.

Mr. Speaker, economic projections suggest that the implementation of this budget will lead to job creation, increased productivity, and a more robust economy and so we will improve efforts to engage contractors with periodic training sessions throughout the year equipping them with the skillset to prepare proper bids for both recurrent and capital projects. The intention is for these sessions to be hosted on all islands. Our upcoming 3^rd annual contractor’s symposium will further solidify their knowledge enabling our local contractors to participate in works issued by our ministry. Mr. speaker, our aim is to create a skilled workforce with our contractors, establishing a balanced system and minimizing deficiencies in the process. We have also made progressive plans for increased media and communication competencies to keep the public informed of the various programs and expected deadlines.

Capital Projects

Despite the size of the budget, fiscal responsibility remains a foundation of our financial strategy. While there have been several capital projects re-tendered, there is still a significant number of projects that fall within this budget cycle:

• Boats for Police (Lot 2)
• Boats for Police (Lot 3)
• CCTV for Police
• Purchase of Patrol Vessel – Regiment
• DECR Equipment – Vessel
• DECR Equipment – Outboard Engines
• Drainage and Site Works HJRHS
• Highway and Road Improvements-GDT
• Remediation Works to Ponds and Bridges – West Road and Church Folly
• Remediation Works to Ponds and Bridges – Ponds for GDT
• Housing Project Initiative – Program 2
• Digitization Phase 2 – Consultancy for National Identification System – Stage 1a
• Land Registry Digitalization Project
• Crown Land Project
• Climate Resilience Coastal Management
• Bridges, Ponds and Roads – GDT Roads
• Consultancy Framework Agreement for Public Works
• Construction of Warehouse Building in Grand Turk
• Consultancy for Geodetic Global Navigation Satellite Systems
• Community Parks Development – Five Cays and Kew Town
• Repairs to RGHS Art Block
• Back-up Generators including Housing
• Biosecurity Unit
• Purchase of Incinerator
• Ambulances for Islands (8 Ambulances)
• Community Roads All Islands – Providenciales
• Leeward Highway Rehabilitation Works

Mr. Speaker, the $1.8M in technical support will aid in these projects being delivered on time, within budget and with maximum return for our citizens.

Community Enhancement Program/ C.E.P

The budget for the works program in this fiscal year is ambitious; but necessary. I assure you that every dollar invested in this program has been carefully considered to improve the quality of life for our citizens, to stimulate economic growth and prepare this country for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Mr. speaker, this program has extensive cost benefits and reflects the strategic priorities of this government. In the last financial year, our efforts yielded much success through the following initiatives:

GRAND TURK:

• Construction of two (2) gazebos to the amount of $80,000.00
• Construction of Lunch Shed at HJRHS to the amount of $86,869.00
• RFP for the beatification of the Grand Turk sign to the amount of $37,560.00
• Verge Cleaning works in the amount of $90K

SALT CAY:

• Construction of fencing around landfill/dump site to the amount of $98k.
• Verge cleaning: $37K
• Works to water depot: $9K
• Back-up Generator R.O Plant: $214K
• Deans Dock Repairs: $70k
• Gazebo – North District: $52,500.00
• Gazebo – South District: $47,501.00
• Refurbishment of pool area – Duncombe Point – $9,325. 00
• Garbage receptacles x 4 – $36,582.00
• Duncombe point $8,895.00
• Hurricane Shelter – $9,449.00
• Airport – $9,298.00
• Dean’s Dock – $8,940.00
• Fencing to Salt Cay Clinic – $5.849.85
• Refurbishment works to Salt Shed $70k

SOUTH CAICOS:

• Construction of Boat slip/ramp to the amount of $46K
• Construction of Drainage cover to the amount of $36K

MIDDLE CAICOS:

• Demolition Works to the amount of $150K.

PROVIDENCIALES:

• Construction of Sidewalks to the amount of $382K
• Construction of gazebos to the amount of $42K
• Construction of boat ramps to the amounts of $96K
• Construction of Welcome Sign to the amount of $45K.

The Ministry has achieved remarkable milestones spearheading the country’s infrastructural transformation and development. Looking ahead to the new financial year, the Ministry is poised to embark on a rigorous agenda.

Mr. Speaker, we have several new and ambitious projects for the CEP and Capital Projects this year!

GRAND TURK

• Grand Turk Market and Welcome Centre – $2.5M
• Repairs to NJS Francis Park
• Refurbishment of Lester Williams Park
• Community Parks Development – North Back Salina Park
• Refurbishment of West Road Park

SALT CAY

• Works to Matthew Canal- Salt Cay – $800K
• Refurbishment of the Cricket Field – $250K

SOUTH CAICOS

• Improvement to Cockburn Harbour – XSC – $1M
• Regatta Village – $1M
• Conch Ground – $1.5M
• Community Roads – $1.5M

North Caicos

• Whitby Roads – XNC – $1.14M
• Renovation of Whitby Community Center – $50K
• Refurbishment of Hollywood Park – $40K
• Refurbishment of Horse Stable Beach – $550K
• Bottle Creek Community Centre – $3.2M

MIDDLE CAICOS:

• Repairs to Lorimers Community Center – $100K
• Refurbishment of Bambara Community Centre – $50K
• Bambara Beach Project – $800K

PROVIDENCIALES:

Leeward and Long Bay (ED5)

• Community Roads – $350K
• Upgrade to Leeward Palms Park – $85K
• Develop Long Bay Walking Park – $100K
• Speed Tables – $50K

The Bight (ED6)

• Speed Tables – $50K
• Construction of Sidewalks $100K
• Tower Drive Kids Park – $100K
• Community Parks Development – Juba Sound – $85K
• Upgrade the Bight Community Park – $650K
• Community Centre- Bight – $1.5M

Cheshire Hall (ED7)

• Community Roads – $400K
• Speed Tables – $75K
• Construction of Sidewalks $200K
• Refurbishment of Gustavus Lightbourne Complex – $1.2M

Blue Hills (ED8)

• Clementina and Fuller Walkin Park – $550K
• Community Parks Development –Blue Hills – Multipurpose court, kids shaded area, fencing lighting and parking – $150K
• Water Connections – $100K
• Construction of Community Entrance Signs $150K
• Mobile Clinic – Blue Hills – $450K

Five Cays (ED9)

• Beautification to Main Entrance to Five Cays – $100K
• Sidewalks – Chalk Sound – $250K
• Sapodilla Bay Beach Project – $850K

Wheeland and West Caicos (ED10) Awarded/Commenced or Completed

• Recreational Pavilion – $500K
• Construction of Community Entrance Signs $100K

Mr. Speaker, the investments we are making today are not expenses; they are the seeds of our future prosperity. Each dollar spent is meticulously planned to yield tangible benefits for our communities. Our infrastructure is the stage upon which the story of our nation’s progress is enacted, and with this budget, we are ensuring that this stage is set for a stellar performance in 2024 and beyond.

In conclusion, the budget allocation for the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life for all citizens, and building a resilient infrastructure network for the future. We remain dedicated to efficient resource management, transparent governance, and stakeholder engagement to achieve our nation’s development goals.

Before I yield Mr. Speaker, I wish to reference a familiar scripture Matthew 6:21; “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” How we allocate our resources reflects our priorities and values. Our infrastructure reflects our collective ambition. Through careful planning, strategic investment, and a relentless pursuit of development, we are not just building roads, schools, and shelters, we are building a nation.

I will continue to support the efforts of my PPID Team and work towards a prosperous and sustainable future for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Thank you.

Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer

#TurksandCaicos, April 18, 2024 – NINE days after he was last seen, police have reported Edgar Miguel Veloz Tirado, a visitor to the Turks and Caicos Islands, missing.

Many are stunned at the time which has elapsed since the man was last seen alive – which was Monday April 8 – and have been vocal on social media.

When Magnetic Media queried the delay in reporting that the man had never returned to a jet ski operator with his rental, we were told Police were alerted when the owner lodged a report with the RTCIPF Police Control Room, that he rented a black and yellow jet ski to Mr. Tirado to visit a cay, which is a small island.

Neither the jet ski nor Edgar Tirado returned at the agreed time and nine days later, the Turks and Caicos community is being asked to help.  Police put out a MISSING PERSON alert on Wednesday April 17 and up to Thursday midday, there had been no feedback about the missing man.

Magnetic Media learned from the TCI Police, officers discovered the missing person had not checked out of a rented villa, and his belongings were still there.

Despite questions pressing the police on this bizarre case, there was no new information on the 41 year old Dominican who has not been seen since.