TCI News
Survey asks TCI Government to negotiate and support ‘survival’ loans for Tourism industry
#TurksandCaicosIslands, May 13, 2020 – Hassle-free loans with soft terms are a viable option to bring buoyancy to some of the tourism and hotel sector businesses in Turks and Caicos struggling to survive in the midst of a global pandemic caused by the coronavirus, revealed a new survey.
More than half of those who participated in an April survey, conducted by KPMG and commissioned by the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association, TCHTA replied that ‘yes’, they would take out a loan.
“Fifty-four per cent of employers said that they would choose to apply for additional debt if it can be made available on “soft terms” i.e. with no “red tape”, no additional security and where it is to be used for specific purposes. This does not take into account other sources of finance such as private equity, mezzanine finance etc.” said that survey which was, this week, issued to members of the TCHTA and media.
It is not a far-fetched prospect for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government to support the opportunity for companies to stay afloat amidst the public health crisis which has grounded travel indefinitely. With so much at stake, the survey recommends that TCIG would do well to support a Staff Retention Program and government-backed loans.
“This is another suggestion that has been put forward to TCIG and HMG on behalf of TCHTA which is modelled on an initiative already introduced in the UK called a Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan scheme. In the UK 80% of such loans are backed by the government.
Any initiative in TCI along these lines need not necessarily be exactly the same as the initiatives introduced in the UK but it appears from anecdotal evidence that something similar with a credit enhancement component e.g. a sovereign guarantee of some description will be needed to make more debt available in the prevailing circumstances and to entice employers to take on more debt to finance commitments to the program.”
The suggestion, explained the report, is both practicable and internationally touted.
“This initiative put forward by TCHTA is also consistent with the actions that WTTC are advocating to global governments with substantial tourism industries.”
A government guaranteed loan scheme is however, not hugely popular for the membership of the TCHTA. Some 46 per cent of those taking the survey expressed that they would not apply for a loan.
The survey was administered between April 12-20. Employers participating in the questionnaire represent 5,606 employees.
***MEDIA RELEASE***
July 23rd, 2024.
Around 10:59 am, the Police Control Room received a call of gunshots at a location along the Millennium Highway, Providenciales.
Officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force were dispatched and, based on preliminary investigations, were told that the occupant (s) of a red Suzuki Swift was at a business place when another car pulled alongside it, and the occupants started shooting.
The driver of the Swift drove off while the other unidentified vehicle sped off in a separate direction. 
Officers found the Swift abandoned near Miracle Close, Blue Hills, shortly after.
Based on investigations, no injuries were reported.
This remains an active investigation.
The RT&CIPF is asking anyone with information or CCTV footage of the shooting that may assist the police with enquiries to contact 911, the closest police station, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 and anonymously give any information.
Additionally, persons are being asked to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app.
***MEDIA RELEASE***
July 23rd, 2024.
There are twelve new officers within the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
The officers—Ronn James, Ernie Henry, Aron Charlery, Andrew Ottley, Emmanuel Dabreo, Damion Clarke, Jeffrey Kaye, Roan Waugh, Shan Livermore, Kemar Chambers, Michael Campbell, and Ajay Budhai—took an oath to protect and serve the citizens of the
Turks and Caicos Islands yesterday (July 22nd) afternoon at Police Headquarters, Providenciales.
Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin, who administered the officers’ oath, said, “Thank you for choosing the TCI. It will not be a bed of roses. Policing requires hard work, and you ensure our communities are safe. Your arrival was anticipated and highly overdue.
“You are now officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, and you are committed to the safety of the people of these archipelagoes. We must lead by example and not let our guard down. Stand firm on the foundation of our motto- Service With Pride and Integrity. Integrity is doing the right thing in the absence of anyone watching.”
The President of the Christian Council, Pastor Wilbert Jennings, delivered the opening prayer and told officers to always call on God in
their time of need.
Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams, Assistant Commissioner Kendall Grant, acting Assistant Commissioner Mat Newton, Chairman of the Police Welfare Association Sgt. Jepson Victor and Human Resources Manager Rex Swann also attended the ceremony.
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