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People sleeping in cars hoping for help; No testing in TCI creating a Humanitarian crisis

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#Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 7, 2020 — People have given up their apartments and are sleeping in their vehicles, some are hanging around just hoping and waiting and others are crying as they plead for assistance, but still there is no help for foreign workers who are out of money, out of time and seemingly out of luck when it comes to having a Covid-19 PCR test done in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It has now become a humanitarian crisis for some of those who have been, for days, waiting to hear that the Turks and Caicos Islands Government has approved a community-based laboratory, which can perform the desperately needed test. 

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Entry requirements amidst the pandemic continue to be a stranglehold for travel, globally.  It is no longer easy and from the Turks and Caicos to destinations which demand a negative result for COVID-19, it seems impossible.

Government, despite months of outcry, is “stubbornly” holding its positions. 

One, that they will not prioritise testing for travellers and two, that they will not permit anyone else to test or even take swabs in order for results to come from approved laboratories abroad.

It is a mystifying posture, to put it mildly. 

One which is driving people to extremes, including begging for help, camping out at the local lab, Accu Diagnostics and calling media attention to their plight.

No one from the Ministry of Health is speaking.  No one from government is offering any public statement to navigate a way through this manageable dilemma.

A flight out of the Turks and Caicos tomorrow is what nine Filipinos are hoping they are aboard.  The group is made of staff who have resigned or been terminated due to the impact on travel and tourism of the coronavirus pandemic.

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Three stops for the travelers require negative PCR tests; Dominican Republic, Dubai and home in the Philippines.  The DR is a transit stop, with a seven hour layover; but Dubai will not allow the travelers in without a negative test result.  Already, the Filipinos who hope to depart tomorrow will be cutting it close, due to the days within which the negative result has to be provided.

ACCU Diagnostics has submitted the final standard for Ministry of Health approval since this past Thursday.  Four days on and there is no approval and the official authorization is a must for ACCU which would otherwise face criminal offence; warned a Ministry of Health notice on August 31, 2020.

The notice followed a declaration by Edwin Astwood, the Minister of Health, that ACCU Diagnostics was already supporting government’s testing regime and approved as a coronavirus community testing centre.

It turned out to be another useless statement and embarrassing mix-up by the Ministry of Health.

Work permit holders were told by the Government to leave the country if furloughed or terminated.  Work permit holders were also told by the Government it is illegal for them to be in Turks and Caicos unemployed or seeking new employment.  Now, Work Permit holders are being told ‘no’ to requests for coronavirus testing, by the very same Government.

The Filipinos have explained to Magnetic Media, they are “suffering”, want to return to their country and that yes, they are prepared to pay for the COVID-19 test in order to begin that journey home.

Magnetic Media is a Telly Award winning multi-media company specializing in creating compelling and socially uplifting TV and Radio broadcast programming as a means for advertising and public relations exposure for its clients.

Government

Turks and Caicos Premier Delivers Banner Year Budget Amid Pressing National Challenges

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Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

 

 

Turks and Caicos, May 23, 2025 – Premier Charles Washington Misick has unveiled what is viewed as a “banner year” budget for the Turks and Caicos Islands, forecasting $549.5 million in revenue for the 2025/26 fiscal year.

The theme: “Building Prosperity & Securing Our Future,” signals a bold promise to transform the country’s infrastructure, improve public services, and confront pressing national issues—chief among them, a deepening housing crisis and escalating security threats.

Despite the ambitious tone and large allocations, critical questions remain about whether the budget sufficiently addresses the most urgent needs of the population.

Housing Crisis: A Priority or a Placeholder?

The Premier acknowledged the country’s housing deficit, which affects every island, but offered only broad strokes in terms of solutions. His government pledged to invest $23 million in Housing and Community Amenities, a figure that also includes spending on water distribution, treatment, and district administration.

Key initiatives include:

  • Designation of traditional communities as special development zones with targeted concessions.
  • Increased funding for home repairs, aiming to support vulnerable homeowners.

However, no new housing construction projects or large-scale development plans were announced. There is also a lack of detail on timelines or targets—such as how many homes will be built, rehabilitated, or made available through affordable programs.

Conclusion: The housing crisis is acknowledged, but the government’s response, as laid out in this budget, leans heavily on incremental measures rather than bold new solutions. For citizens facing overcrowding and unaffordable rent, the plan may feel underwhelming.

Crime and Security: A Tougher, Multi-Layered Response

Violent crime, particularly gang-related murders and transnational threats, has reached alarming levels in TCI. In response, the Premier announced a sweeping $106 million allocation for public order and safety—one of the largest single budgetary spends.

Highlights include:

  • $49.1 million for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF)
  • 76 new police recruits, plus the deployment of 42 tactical officers from Barbados and Jamaica
  • Expansion of mobile police stations and planning for new fixed stations, beginning in Providenciales
  • Investment in CCTV, gunshot detection, and community policing initiatives
  • 24/7 border patrol by Marine Police and increased aerial surveillance
  • Radar installations in four strategic coastal locations
  • Strengthening partnerships with UK, U.S., Bahamas, INTERPOL, and others

The government cites an 11% decrease in serious crime and a 17% reduction in murders during the first four months of 2025. These early results offer cautious optimism, though much of the security strategy is still unfolding.

Conclusion: On crime, the government is investing heavily and appears to have a coordinated plan, blending immediate response with longer-term capacity building. The emphasis on border control and regional collaboration signals a serious approach to transnational crime.

Revenue Strategy: No Major Tax Increases, Modest Adjustments

The budget outlines $549.5 million in projected revenue, sourced primarily from:

  • Accommodation Tax: $133.7 million
  • Import Duties: $132.4 million
  • Stamp Duty: $50 million
  • Work Permits: $50 million

To support this, the government is introducing subsistence-level new revenue measures, including:

  • $40 increase in vehicle license fees
  • An import license for large-scale alcohol and tobacco importers

Conclusion: The Premier’s fiscal strategy maintains public stability by avoiding new broad-based taxes while seeking modest new streams to boost revenue. This cautious approach aims to keep inflationary pressure in check while ensuring fiscal health.

Investing in the Future: Youth, Education, Health

The budget also directs funding toward:

  • Youth programs, particularly for at-risk youth, as part of a crime prevention strategy
  • Education and skills development, though exact figures were not detailed
  • Healthcare, with a commitment to better access and affordability

A unified vision to modernize public institutions, improve digital governance, and restore public trust is also part of the long-term reform agenda.

Conclusion: The Premier articulates a future-facing approach, though some sectors lack clear budgetary breakdowns. Education and healthcare are promised support, but housing and social safety nets may require deeper intervention.

Final Assessment: A Balanced but Incomplete Response

Premier Misick’s 2025/26 Budget presents an ambitious and well-funded plan to secure the nation’s future. Investments in security and border protection are decisive and immediate, while economic growth is forecast to continue under stable fiscal policy.

However, for a country in the midst of a housing crisis, the government’s response—while well-intentioned—may fall short of the scale required to meet the moment. Similarly, social challenges linked to crime, youth disengagement, and income inequality require not just infrastructure, but deeper systemic reform.

The Premier concluded his address with a promise to “build a Turks and Caicos that works for everyone.” Whether this budget is the foundation for that future—or merely a stepping stone—will be revealed in the months ahead.

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Crime

Five People Shot in One Day Across Turks and Caicos in Unprecedented String of Gun Violence

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Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

 

Turks and Caicos, May 22, 2025 – Turks and Caicos Islands experienced an alarming spike in gun violence on Wednesday May 21, with five individuals shot in two separate incidents across different islands—marking an unprecedented day for the nation’s ongoing fight against violent crime.

According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), four males were injured in a targeted shooting in the Kew Town area of Providenciales around 6:14 p.m. Police received multiple calls reporting gunshots near Betty Shop and surrounding areas. Emergency services rushed two victims to a medical facility, while police discovered a third at the scene and transported him by ambulance. A fourth man with a gunshot wound to the foot was later located in Pete Court. All four are currently hospitalized.

Earlier in the day, around noon, a separate firearm incident occurred in South Caicos, where a 71-year-old man was shot in the left thigh. He, too, is undergoing medical treatment.

In response to the violence, Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales suspended all visits, citing security concerns. Armed police officers were stationed at the hospital to prevent any further attempts on the lives of the wounded—believed to be victims of targeted attacks.

The incidents come just as the RTCIPF recently welcomed 40 tactical police officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Barbados to bolster national security.

Both shootings are under active investigation by the Serious Crime Unit, with forensic and tactical teams deployed. The RTCIPF is urging members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist their inquiries.

The violent episodes underscore growing concerns about public safety, even amid recent progress reported by the government in reducing overall crime.

 

PHOTO CAPTION:

ACTIVE CRIME SCENE IN KEW TOWN, PROVIDENCIALES.  PHOTO BY EAGLE LEGAL NEWS MEDIA

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News

What You Need to Know – SOUTH CAICOS REGATTA 2025

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Turks and Caicos, May 22, 2025 – We are thrilled to invite you to the South Caicos Regatta 2025, celebrating an incredible 58 years of rich history and vibrant tradition! Join us in South Caicos for an unforgettable experience filled with excitement, camaraderie, and the beauty of our beloved Island.

The South Caicos Regatta has long been a cherished event, bringing together locals and visitors to honour our Maritime heritage. This annual gathering showcases everything Turks and Caicos and the spirit of our community. With each passing year, the Regatta has grown into a spectacular celebration that highlights our culture, music and local cuisine. As we commemorate this milestone, we invite you to be apart of the festivities that make South Caicos truly special.

We celebrate this year from May 23-24th the main event day is Saturday May 24th where the excitement reaches it peak and a great day for Boating across the Caicos Bank. Come and enjoy local food vendors, live entertainment, and activities that cater to all.

For those of you planning to stay overnight, we have great news! Solterra Resort and Spa is offering special Regatta Rates for all guests. Reservations can be made by calling 1-649-333-5410 or emailing reservations@salterra.com. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the beauty of our Island while enjoying the celebrations.

We look forward to welcoming you to South Caicos for this memorable occasion.

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