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All gone; 4,684 Vaccinated in Turks and Caicos

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H.E. Nigel Dakin, TCI Governor, gets final jab of COVID vaccine

#TurksandCaicos, February 2, 2021 – Turks and Caicos residents have exhausted all of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccines sent to the territory by the UK Foreign Development & Commonwealth Office said the Deputy Governor and Premier on Monday following their second jab at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales.

“We would have been the first to get our second dose, fully vaccinated here in Turks and Caicos.  And of course as usually we are being observed for the fifteen minutes, and we would have passed that period and again I am feeling quite fine.  Last shot, I had no reaction whatsoever, not even soreness of arm, so it has been the same experience thus far (for the second jab),” said Sharlene Robinson, Premier and joint-chair of the Vaccine Oversight Committee for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Stood side-by-side, the country’s leading ladies marked the historic significance with an impressive report.

“Also today and tomorrow we are going to be wrapping up our first doses of administration. We have done quite well over the past three weeks, we’ve done extremely well and today we have vaccinated a total of 4,684 persons in the Turks and Caicos; that includes 392 persons in Grand Turk, 82 persons on the island of North Caicos and 140+ persons on the island of Parrot Cay,” said Anya Williams, Deputy Governor who is the co-chair on the Vaccine Oversight Committee.

It was also shared that clinics for vaccination against Covid-19 continued on Monday in Grand Turk and South Caicos and Salt Cay are due for their appointments to be met sometime this week.

Though Magnetic Media’s earlier report of Public Health being congratulated for success in administering over 2,000 vaccines appeared to paint the complete picture, it did not; that figure left out the private medical centers which supported the surge in demand for the shots.

“It is free of cost to the person receiving the vaccination, but under the MOU Government paid $85 per person vaccinated through the private clinics. They would have been assisting us and did so greatly in terms of the numbers (of people) that were vaccinated through the private clinics,” explained the Premier and Minister of Finance.

The Deputy Governor said two thirds of those vaccinated received their shot at one of five private practitioners who were grafted into the vaccination roll-out via a Memorandum of Understanding; signed last month.

As cases numbers spiked, as global reports grew more grim, as the local death toll to Covid-19 soared so did the interest for the vaccine. 

“Now we are seeing a mad rush, when we are literally at the end and so there are persons who are coming up now, I say to you: don’t be discouraged, you have to now wait until the second batch.  But we are still keeping for senior citizens and frontline workers because it is very, very important that we vaccinate that group,” said the Premier. 

Registration for the Covid-19 Vaccine continues as the TCI feels confident of the next batch; though how it will get here is a work in progress with British Airways flights suspended until March.

“The complication for us is that persons may be aware that BA has cancelled their direct flights at the moment so we are still working on transportation and how we are going to get the vaccine here into the islands; so we are working very closely with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on that as well.  Even the government we are leading to see how best we can assist, even if there is a cost to us  because we know that the first batch of vaccines were provided completely free of charge by the united Kingdom,” said Her Excellency, Anya Williams.

If your preference is for the AstraZeneca, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson branded vaccines; it is unlikely you will get them in Turks and Caicos, said HE Anya Williams.

“Turks and Caicos would have already started with the Pfizer vaccine, we have done a lot of work around that, we have done a lot of communication, a lot of education… certainly we are not going to turn away any opportunity for the vaccine but of course our preference is to continue with the Pfizer vaccine, which we would have begun with.” 

The world is clamoring now for the coveted vaccines due production demands and shortage in supply; still co-chair of the TCI Vaccine Oversight Committee, Premier Sharlene Robinson explained Turks and Caicos remains in a good position to meet its target of vaccination for all adults due to its population size.

“I think we are in a very, very, good place in terms of being able to advocate to the UK, we are a very small population so that’s the beauty of it and they are very committed to assisting the overseas territories.  Again, we have to appreciate what privilege this is because there are so many leading independent countries in the region that are trying to get into arrangements,” the Premier added, “We have demonstrated, in this first batch that there is an uptake, that people are interested that’s why it was so important what happened with the first batch so that we could make a case for the additional.” 

Among the other country leaders getting that second jab at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre today were His Excellency, Nigel Dakin, the Governor and his wife Mandy; Hon Karen Malcolm, the Minister of Education and Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, CEO of the TCI Hospitals.

The remaining available doses of the vaccine are reserved for South Caicos, Salt Cay and priority people on those islands. 

The UK, on January 7, 2021 sent enough doses of the vaccine to inoculate four thousand, eight hundred and seventy five people in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

News

Academy Eagles FC crowned Beaches Turks & Caicos sponsored Provo Men’s Premier League champions 2026  

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The Academy Eagles FC were crowned champions of the Beaches sponsored Men’s Provo Premier League after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over defending champions, SWA Sharks, at the Venetian Road football field.

In a match that featured a mix of youth and experienced players, the Academy Eagles eventually broke through late in the game when Jean Innocent found the back of the net in the 77th minute. Innocent doubled the lead in the 95th minute from the penalty spot to clinch the championship.

Academy Eagles head coach Aaron Lawrence expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance. “I applaud the team for their discipline throughout the season and their ability to stick to the plan heading into this game,” Lawrence shared, adding special praise for team captain Myherwens Varis for “following tactical instructions throughout the game.”

“This victory would not have been possible without the thoughtful support from our main sponsor, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. This is the second year running with this relationship. This has provided exposure for the semi-professional players and the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association,” Lawrence noted.

On the opposing sideline, SWA Sharks coach Jack Watson was modest in defeat. While he noted that his team executed their strategy well, he recognized the Eagles’ determination. “I congratulate the Eagles team for wanting the win more,” Watson said. “We played to the game plan, but I fault a lapse in judgment that gave up two goals.”

Beaches Turks and Caicos, returning for a second year of sponsoring the competition, expressed ongoing dedication to youth football in the islands. General Manager Deryk Meany shared his enthusiasm, “I am satisfied with the impact that the league is having on youth development throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and our resort’s involvement in fielding a team for the competition.” The final phase of the tournament now transitions to a knockout format among the eight participating clubs.

League executives also weighed in on the success of the season. Provo Premier League President, Phillip Baptiste, expressed his satisfaction with the league format and highlighted the significant progress made by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) over the course of the tournament.

“This is what true success looks like as corporate partners like Beaches Turks and Caicos resort joins forces with the TCIFA in providing an avenue for youth development and sports. While we are happy for the continued sponsorship, we are anticipating more support from other entities. This is not only a win for sports, it is a win for development here in the TCI,” Baptiste shared.

TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie echoed these positive sentiments, pointing to the league’s development as an avenue for showcasing local talent on a broader stage. “Our team continues to learn as they work on developing talents with the youth players, as well as providing a broader marketing avenue for the league to be seen internationally with FIFA+ streaming,” Ritchie said.

He added, “the TCIFA commends the growth of the coaching staff involved in the league and looks forward to further enhancing the competition to make them more competitive in the Caribbean leagues.”

Beaches FC and Cheshire Hall FC have both punched their tickets for the first two spots in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Teachers’ Young Strikers and 5-0 thrashing of Provo United respectively in the first two quarter finals.

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News

Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The French Village main stage at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort was transformed into a dazzling beacon of green and gold as the resort celebrated its highest achievers. Under the inspiring banner of “One Team, One Vision, Endless Achievements,” the annual Prestige Awards recently closed the chapter on an exceptional 2025.

More than 120 nominees across twelve distinct categories walked the red carpet, greeted by flashing cameras and the cheering of their peers. The evening was laced with vibrant entertainment that kept the energy high between award presentations. Attendees were also treated to an exquisite five-course menu, carefully curated to match the prestige of the occasion and celebrate the rich culinary talent present at the resort.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to operate one of the premier family resorts in the Caribbean. General Manager Deryk Meany took the stage to address the audience while reflecting on a year of resilience, innovation and unparalleled guest service.

“This is a celebratory milestone that as leaders we are happy to share with the stars of the hospitality industry,” Meany shared. “You have shown the world the true mettle of leadership and commitment here at Beaches Turks and Caicos.”

To further recognize unique contributions to the resort’s operational success, Meany personally distributed the General Manager’s Special Awards. These honours were bestowed upon Eric ‘Cookie’ Johnson from the kitchen, Harriet Beeput from administration, and Javier Sarita from the entertainment department for their exceptional behind-the-scenes dedication.

The climax of the evening featured the announcement of the resort’s most prestigious overarching awards. Felipe Luzardo Neira from the kitchen took home the MVP of the Year (Manager of the Year) award, while Chad Peterkin from engineering and maintenance was named All-Rounder of the Year (Supervisor of the Year). The loyalty & travel department proved their collective strength by securing the A-Team of the Year title.

Individual team members were also recognized for their ultimate service standards. Deandra Astwood from the front office earned the Platinum Team Member of the Year award. The highest individual honour, Diamond Team Member of the Year, was awarded to Javain Campbell from the restaurant department. Campbell used his moment in the spotlight to highlight the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and community outreach.

“This accolade is a testament to the commitment and teamwork within all the departments of the resort,” Campbell noted after receiving his award. “The opportunity to volunteer at different Sandals Foundation activities as well as be a mentor to other team members means the world to me. This achievement will allow me to do more in leadership as I have been tasked with representing the entire team here at the resort.”

The Prestige Awards ensured that every facet of the resort’s operations received proper recognition. From environmental sustainability to guest entertainment, the specific category winners showcased a wide array of talents:

  • Movers & Shakers was awarded to Katherine ‘Tinkerbell’ Jiminez from the entertainment department
  • Legendary Team Member was secured by Kadian Smith from the restaurant
  • Circle of Joy went to Emanie Jocelyn Seide from security and loss prevention
  • Earth Guardian was claimed by Bernard Florvil from engineering and maintenance
  • Sandals Foundation Sentinel was awarded to Tanya Swann from administration
  • Standing Ovation Award was proudly accepted by Richard Myers from the laundry team
  • Money Maker Award went to Teesha McCallum-Hamilton from the resort shop
  • Heart of the House Hotel Manager’s Award was presented to Carlton Biggs from stewarding department
  • People’s Choice Award was won by Claire Ann Balones from the off site department
  • Pacesetter Award was given to Kassandra Henry from accounts & cost control
  • Founder’s Circle Award was claimed by Susan Outten from the restaurant

As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the rigorous selection process that led to the evening’s celebrations. The Prestige Awards do not merely look at a single moment of excellence, but rather evaluate a full twelve months of unwavering dedication to the guest experience. Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby highlighted the rewarding journey these team members took to reach the main stage.

“This event is a culmination of a number of activities for the resort’s leadership and the team members who have been exemplary and consistent throughout the year,” Coleby shared. “Congratulations are in order for each nominee as they have been crowned winners for the different months of 2025.”

With the trophies distributed and the 2025 season officially wrapped, the staff at Beaches Turks and Caicos now look forward. Fueled by the “One Team, One Vision” mantra, these award winners are already setting the standard for another year of endless achievements.

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Finance

TCI Financial Services Opens Debate on Cryptocurrency Rules 

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Turks and Caicos, May 12, 2026 – A new era of digital finance regulation could be on the horizon for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as the Financial Services Commission moves to establish a legal framework for virtual assets and cryptocurrency-related businesses.

The TCI Financial Services Commission on Friday launched a public consultation on its proposed Virtual Assets Business Bill, 2026, legislation designed to regulate virtual asset service providers, stablecoin issuers and other digital asset activities operating in or from the territory.

Globally, governments and regulators have been racing to catch up with the rapid growth of digital currencies, blockchain technology and online financial platforms. Concerns over money laundering, cybercrime, fraud and the collapse of poorly regulated crypto exchanges have pushed jurisdictions to tighten oversight while still trying to attract financial innovation and investment.

The proposed TCI bill appears aimed at positioning the territory within that evolving international framework.

According to the FSC, the legislation is aligned with international standards and guidance from bodies including the Financial Action Task Force, International Organization of Securities Commissions and the Financial Stability Board.

The Commission said the bill would introduce a “comprehensive licensing, supervisory, prudential and enforcement framework” for the sector. The proposed law includes anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations, cyber resilience requirements, enforcement measures and even a regulatory sandbox intended to support innovation.

Among the notable features are proposed reserve and governance rules for stablecoins, which are digital currencies typically tied to traditional assets like the US dollar. The draft legislation also outlines exemptions for certain technology providers and closed-loop token systems.

The FSC said the consultation period is intended to gather public and industry feedback before the bill is submitted to Cabinet next month. Written submissions must be received by June 8, 2026.

The consultation paper and draft bill have been published on the FSC website for public review.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

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