TCI News
Opposition Leader says TCIs must push for more rigorous process in Islander Status grants
#GrandTurk, Turks and Caicos Islands – October 22, 2020 — PNP leader, Washington Misick has called for resistance against, what he described as ‘the UK agenda’ by making the process of gaining citizenship in Turks and Caicos more rigorous.
In response to the FAC report entitled: ‘Global Britain and the British Overseas Territories: Resetting the relationship’ that includes the latest pronouncement of the UK of its intentions for the Overseas Territories on important issues, the opposition leader asks Turks and Caicos Islanders to petition the Governor. Hon Misick also admonishes voters to push for the draft points criteria which are meant to supplement the requirements of the Ordinance for public consultation to be published.
In order for anyone to vote for any cultural, social and economic change that is significant for the enlargement of the franchise, they must have Islander Status under the Turks and Caicos Islands Islander Status Ordinance 2015.
Currently, the Islander Status is acquired by right or by grant. According to Misick, many Turks and Caicos Islanders are concerned about the acquisition by grant.
Hon. Misick suggested that the amendment to the Turks and Caicos Islands Islander Status Bill that was approved on January 8 be replaced with one that accounts for the current trend and the need to protect the interest of heritage Turks and Caicos Islanders.
He argued that at minimum, subsidiary legislation should have rigidified the assessment criteria, suggesting that all applicants should stand before the Commission in person especially because of the large number of applications that were received between 2016 and 2018.
The Opposition Leader is also concerned by how the system’ favours’ the financially influential, which he believes potentially side-lines others with otherwise substantial contributions.
Hon. Misick has condemned the Government for ‘bending over backwards and putting the system through legal contortions just to accomplish the UK’s agenda’ but having what he believes is a completely dissimilar assertiveness laced with ‘excuses and roadblocks’ when it is time for the UK to assist and deliver to the people of these islands.
“With all of the challenges faced by the Government and the hardships of the people the Government is caving into the dictates of the UK to expand the franchise with the expressed intention to alter the political hegemony in the interest of those who already have control of the economy,” he said.
Furthermore, Hon. Misick recommends that the Commission adopt rules to undertake a comprehensive interview of each applicant to determine whether the granting of Status to them is in the Public Interest, and in particular meet the criteria set out in Section 4 (7) of the Ordinance.
This, he said, is because the public is allegedly anxious over the fact that there is now an inverse relationship between the economic development of the islands and the social development of the local people.
Hon. Misick, the former Minister of Finance in the 2012-2016 PNP Administration thinks the Commission does not respect the Ordinance, however, they have been “advised by the AG Chambers that it has a quorum in the absence of a fully constituted membership”.
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The Opposition Leader explains, “people who apply for Status have nothing to worry about. People who have made TCI their home and have shown that they are committed to “inclusive prosperity and camaraderie with the people of the islands” deserve to be granted Status. It is the people who have no respect for the culture, people or place who do not deserve to be granted status and who the rigid process is supposed to pick out.
Washington Misick, in the statement issued October 13 said the Opposition will not participate in any process which advances the Commission; restating the need for the draft points criteria for public consultation to be published.
By Magnetic Media Editorial Department
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (March 5, 2026) – As the Turks and Caicos sporting community celebrates the spirit of
youth athleticism, leading telecoms provider, Flow is highlighting the transformative power of connectivity following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Inter-High Track and Field Championships held at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Stadium from February 26 to 28.
As the Official Media Sponsor for the event, Flow provided livestreaming services that premiered across social media and on Flow TV’s Channel 111. This ensured that families and fans throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands could witness every record-breaking moment. To keep the event running at top speed, Flow also provided broadband services throughout the venue, maintaining seamless connectivity throughout the games.
“Our long-standing partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission is a shared promise to invest in the next generation. Over the years we have worked together to create opportunities for young people to train, compete and grow,” said Joanne Missick, Country
Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands.
“We make this investment because sport develops more than athletes. It’s a long-term investment for us in our people, pride and possibility, and it’s a partnership we hold close because advancing our youth advances the entire nation.”
The commitment to the Games extended directly to the track, where Flow served as the headline sponsor for the 200-meter category. Spanning seven races, the partnership culminated during the official medal ceremony with the company presenting winners with Flow merchandise bags.
Off the track, Flow mobilised engagement through the interactive sales booth. The site became a hub for activity, featuring Spin the Wheel promotions and gift certificate giveaways during Q&A intermissions, ensuring the energy of the crowd remained high.
Looking ahead, Flow is preparing to carry this momentum into the upcoming Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships, continuing its investment in the next generation of sporting talent in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.
The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders,
executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.
Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.
In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.
The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.
This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.
(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.
Key Activities Included:
Educational Training Sessions
Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.
House Call Talk Show Feature
A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.
Red Fridays Awareness Campaign
Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.
Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run
In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of
heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.
Digital Health Education Campaign
To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.
Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment
While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:
- Community-based education initiatives
- Preventative screening and early detection programs
- Lifestyle and wellness promotion
- Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes
“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant. “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”
For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc
About TCI Hospital
TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.
