Turks and Caicos, May 11, 2025 – Her Excellency, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 4^th meeting of Cabinet held on Wednesday March 19, 2025, at the Hon NJS Francis Building, Grand Turk. All members of Cabinet were present with the exception of the Minister for Innovation, Communication and E-Government, Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders and the Attorney General, Hon. Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, with Ms. Khalila Astwood attending as Acting Attorney General.

At this meeting Cabinet:

• Approved an amendment to the Cost-of-Living Relief Policy to include a provision for the issuance of cheques to deceased persons estate.
• Approved a moratorium on the issuance of new business licenses in the contractor’s category with non-Turks and Caicos Islander involvement.
• Approved an MOU with the Department for Transport of the United Kingdom and the Turks and Caicos Islands to support the implementation of internationally recognized maritime security standards.
• Noted an information paper on the turn-key housing pilot project.
• Approved the naming of the Old Airport on Grand Turk to the JAGS McCartney Memorial Drive.
• Approved the naming of the bridges on West Road and Church Folly to Alexander Forbes Bridge and The Austin Robinson Bridge respectively, and adjacent roads the Carl Coverly Drive and Davis Higgs Drive.
• Noted the awarding of contracts:

o   PN 005823, TR 24/33 Consultancy Services for the National Identification System-Subject Matter Expert

o   TCIAA 012/24, TR 24/36 JAGS McCartney International Airport Fire Hall (Phase II)

• Approved an application for lease to construct and operate resort communities on the island of Salt Cay.
• Approved settlement agreements for former civil servant Court Matters.
• Approved the appointment of Ms. Cynara John as the Interim Secretary to the Turks and Caicos Islanders Status Commission.
• Approved the Law Revision (Miscellaneous Amendment) Bill 2025 for further submission to Parliament.
• Approved the purchase of the Temple Trust building on Providenciales.

Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.

(Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, May 9th, 2025): InterHealth Canada—TCI Hospital proudly inaugurated Nurses Week with a delightful brunch for the nursing teams of the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. This spirited event, designed to honour nurses’ incredible contributions, was celebrated on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, and was met with an enthusiastic turnout.

Nurses Week is a special time to acknowledge the dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment that nursing professionals exhibit daily in providing exceptional patient care. The TCI Hospital embraced this occasion with a vibrant and engaging program that brought together nurses from various departments, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie, celebration, and gratitude.

In addition to Nurses Week, the event also recognized the BPSO (Best Practice Spotlight Organization) champions who have played a pivotal role in integrating evidence-based practices into the nursing care delivered at the TCI Hospital.

During the brunch, nurses were treated to a fun-filled program featuring engaging activities. The dynamic schedule included interactive games, opportunities for sharing experiences, and a range of delicious culinary offerings, allowing nurses to relax and connect with colleagues.

In attendance and offering remarks of support of Nurses Week was the Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles who said, “Today, we have a special occasion to commemorate as we congratulate InterHealth Canada TCI Hospital on their remarkable achievement in transitioning from a Predesignated Best Practice Organization to an official Registered Nurses Association of Ontario Designated Best Practice Spotlight Organization. This is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about the commitment to excellence in nursing practice and patient care that is deeply embedded in the culture of this institution.

Hon. Knowles acknowledged nurses’ vital role in our healthcare system, “You are the backbone of patient care, providing not only medical expertise but also emotional support and comfort to those in need. Your compassion and dedication make a profound difference in the lives of patients and their families”.

Also bringing remarks was Nurse Alrisa Gardiner, Primary Health Care Manager within the Ministry of Health and Human Services. She elaborated, “I take this opportunity to first congratulate the TCI hospital on this significant achievement. The quality of care that you provide as nurses has contributed greatly to the success of this new designation as Best Practice Spotlight Organization. You should be proud of yourselves, and if no one else cheers for you, I want you to take this opportunity to stand up across the room and cheer for yourselves. This would not have been possible without you. Stay the course. Even if you move on from TCI Hospital, take your standards and best practices wherever you go”.

In congratulatory remarks, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, CEO of InterHealth Canada – TCI Hospital, said, “As we celebrate Nurses Week, it’s essential to recognize the hard work and dedication of our nursing teams, from direct patient care to innovative practices in healthcare. The Turks & Caicos Islands Hospital is more than the physical structure but the dedicated and naturally excellent people advancing service excellence and people centred care. The nurses are a part of the life blood of our services and the wider health sector. This brunch is a small token of gratitude for all that they do. It was fantastic to see nurses connecting, celebrating their achievements, and appreciating one another’s efforts; it’s essential for their well-being.”

The kickoff event not only highlighted the importance of the nursing staff but also set a positive tone for the remaining days of Nurses Week. The TCI Hospital aims to continue showing appreciation through its social media platforms throughout the month of May to recognize the commitment and hard work of the nursing teams.

A similar event will be hosted for the nursing teams of the Cockburn Town Medical Centre on May 11th, 2025.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Paula Virgil-Stubbs as Executive Administrator in the Office of the Deputy Governor.

Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs brings a wealth of experience and a strong professional background to her new position. Holding an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, she has continually demonstrated her commitment to professional development through a series of advanced training programs. Most recently, she completed the Administrative Excellence course offered by the Turks and Caicos Islands Training Department, further sharpening her leadership and office management skills.

Her career within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) began at the Grand Turk Post Office, where she worked as a sales-clerk. After relocating to Providenciales and gaining valuable experience in the private sector, she returned to TCIG in 2018, joining the Office of the Premier as an Administrative Officer. Over the years, she quickly advanced, taking on the role of Senior Administrative Officer in 2021 before stepping into the position of Assistant Protocol Officer.

As Executive Administrator, Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs will play a key role in managing the day-to-day operations of the Deputy Governor’s Office. This includes organizing and coordinating meetings, managing appointments and the Deputy Governor’s diary, and providing critical administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of the office. Additionally, Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs will assist with high-level administrative tasks, including handling correspondence, organizing events, and managing administrative functions with the utmost professionalism.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          In commenting on her new appointment, Mrs. Virgil Stubbs stated, “As I begin this new chapter in my career as Executive Administrator within the Deputy Governor Officer, I want to first give thanks to God for making this opportunity possible. I am deeply grateful to my family for their unwavering love, support, and constant encouragement to strive for excellence. This moment truly shows that hard work and dedication pay off. I am also sincerely thankful to the Turks and Caicos Island Government for entrusting me with this new role. I look forward to embracing the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge while continuing to grow, learn, and gain valuable experience in this position. I am committed to serving with integrity, professionalism, and pride.”

Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H.E. Anya Williams, congratulated Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs, stating, “It gives me great pleasure to officially announce and congratulate Mrs. Paula Virgil-Stubbs on her appointment as Executive Administrator in my office. As Executive Administrator, Mrs. Virgil-Stubbs will manage multiple administrative tasks, from coordinating my schedule to providing key support during meetings and events. Paula has proven herself to be a diligent and reliable public servant. I am confident that her experience and dedication will undoubtedly be an asset to my office and the entire public service.

Welcome to our team, and congratulations on your new appointment, Paula!”