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What the Premier said as PNP Administration Marked One Year in Office

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By Dana Malcolm & Deandrea  Hamilton

 

#TurksandCaicos, February 23, 2022 – A year has passed since the PNP Administration took office in a landslide victory. Led by Washington Misick, the administration has been faced with several challenges including an ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and rising inflation.

On Thursday Premier Washington Misick sought to assuage the fears of islanders regarding the transparency of his administration and provide insight into the 2022/2023 financial year.

Misick addressed several areas including security, education, social support, e-government, housing and finance.

 

UNLIMITED SAVINGS ON LAND TAX FOR NATIVES

The Premier started out with an announcement of an up to $50,000 duty concession on building materials for construction and home improvement. This received applause from the audience at the Brayton Hall where the national statement was being televised live.

Tax on land purchases by TCIs and British Overseas Territory Citizens, (BOTCs) are to receive a major discount.

“We are reducing stamp duties on land purchase by Turks and Caicos Island status holders and British overseas citizens by between 40 and 50 per cent.”

For Turks and Caicos status holders the purchase of multiple properties will be covered by the reduction and BOTCs can purchase one property under this reduction.

 

STIMULUS TO STUDENTS, EDUCATION SECTOR EXPANDING

Misick touched on education revealing that the Pan American Health Organization, (PAHO) has approved the Turks and Caicos to begin nursing practice by June.

The 10 nurses who had received their Associates Degrees but could not move on because they did not have provisions for nursing practice will now be able to continue their journey, and will start internships at the InterHealth Canada run hospitals by April.

This is only one of several other upgrades across all levels for the education sector and Premier Misick revealed programs to target special needs programs, an increase in scholarships, and in line with what youth in the country expressed in the national youth policy, more TVET courses will be offered.

A construction and hospitality institute are coming, said the Premier in the State of the State Address.

Stimulus for students is also budgeted in the new fiscal plan for 2022-2023; $212,000 is earmarked for students who are out of school and there is a $150,000 allocation for Special Needs students in that same category.

 

WAGE COMMISSION ACTIVATED, CONSUMER COURT COMING

The Premier acknowledged the growing agitation and revealed a re-assessment of the minimum wage; that a Minimum Wage Committee has been staffed and is ready to go.

The Committee will comprise government workers including  the Permanent Secretary of Labor, who will chair the committee; the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Finance; a representative from the Statistics Department, one from the Premier’s office and one from the Department of Labor.

Members of the Attorney General’s chambers and two private sector members will also be a part of the committee which will meet to advise the government on what constitutes a “socially just wage.”

The government though says that ‘just wage’ figure will be arrived at when combined with social support programs. The committee officially started their duties on Monday (February 21) and will run for three months.

Turks and Caicos Islanders are also set to benefit from a Consumer Protection Tribunal.

“The initiative is part of the government’s push to build infrastructure to begin to monitor business and trade practices and for unfair behavior,” Misick said.

The new Consumer Protection Tribunal will be a space where individuals can report unfair practices and get the issues addressed.

Misick did not say exactly when the Tribunal would be ready to receive consumer complaint reports.

 

NATIONAL SECURITY’S RUNNING TAB

In terms of border and citizen security, millions of dollars have been allocated, totaling 12 per cent of the budget, said the nation’s chief during the presentation made just days ahead of his one year in office anniversary, which was February 19.

In the works a new remand centre, the shocking news is that it is set to be established in Providenciales.

Premier Misick said land had been purchased to build the remand center.  Construction is also planned for the TCI Regiment’s barracks and a training academy at a cost of $1.8 million with $2 million respectively.

A cumulative spend of $15 million was announced for Border Security.  Benefiting from the multi-million dollar security package will be the TCI Regiment, the Royal TCI Police and the Radar system.

The premier seems ready to launch a partnership, which he hopes will work in curbing crime.  There was an appeal to the Church, youth groups, schools and parents.

“We believe the solutions begin in our homes. It starts with parents keeping their children out of harm’s way. We must keep more of our young people out of trouble with prevention strategies developed in conjunction with our communities,” he said.

 

BEAUTIFUL BY NATURE, EVERYWHERE

The Premier also committed financial assistance to repairing roads and electrification so that the Police could better access areas across the islands.

Add to this security solution, there is a move to clean up areas beyond award-winning Grace Bay.

“No more slum landlords please” was in a final string of appeals from Premier Washington Misick who said trash, indiscriminate dumping and poorly maintained private properties will soon no longer be off limits.

Under the National Physical Development Plan, (NPDP) which came to force this past October, the PNP Administration is now prepare to exercise its muscle to eradicate the high level of filth in communities which lie outside of the tourism district.

It was also apparent, that TCIG wants to ensure buildings are more resilient.  The increase and severity of storm systems around the world place an onus on Government’s to shore up construction to reduce losses and destruction.

The NPDP is aimed at enforcing sturdier construction.

“This plan supports effective and efficient development and supports sustainable land use. We are applying strict protocols for large scale projects. Settlements which ignore planning laws and litter the landscape with dwellings that are unsafe will be stopped. And I speak to TCI Islanders who are acting as slum landlords asking you not to engage in that practice.”

 

OWNING A HOME, AT HOME

Young professionals, single mothers, multigenerational families and the elderly can look forward to accessing new housing options from the government in the future.

The Premier announced that housing solutions have been earmarked for these specific groups, adding: “The new housing policy will ensure equitable distribution of purpose-built and sustainable housing solutions in the Turks and Caicos.”

The news signals the return of a dedicated housing department for the Turks and Caicos within the ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development.  A survey is currently being conducted to qualify and quantify the needs and expectations of the general public.

 

FUNDING TRIPLED FOR E-GOVERNMENT

It was also announced that the financial allocation for E-government has tripled this upcoming budget year from $2 million to $6 million.

The mammoth task of going fully digital is set to cost the government around $60 million dollars in the long run and will take years to be fully completed.  However, the Washington Misick-led government administration will accelerate the transition to e-government this year and explained some completed e-governance upgrades which Turks and Caicos residents can now access.

“Business license applications can be done online… now you have a business license in 48 to 72 hours and 80 per cent of services offered by the Immigration department can be accessed online.”

Throughout the speech, which lasted just over an hour, Premier Washington Misick insisted that Turks and Caicos Islanders would get their money back; a phrase he used to assure the nation that it will begin to tangibly experience the benefits of successively stellar economic seasons for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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TCI Police encourage ‘vigilance in support’ as Ministry of Education announces 232-SAFE Lifeline following Teenager Suicide

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Turks and Caicos, November 4, 2024 – Around 1 a.m. on Sunday October 29, a 17-year old teenager was found by his father, unresponsive at their Palm Grove home and police confirm they are looking into the heartbreaking death as a suspected suicide.

The boy was reportedly found hanging.  School was dismissed early and a new avenue for access to qualified help has been announced by the Minister of Education.

“We know that this is an incredibly difficult time for the school and larger community as it is still a shock to lose someone in such a tragic manner.  The Ministry of Education through its Student Support Services continues to provide emotional and psychological support and we urge all our students who are in need of intervention to use the services available to them including the Student Support Services Hotline number 232-SAFE (7233).  The Ministry considers its responsibility for the safety and well-being of children of utmost importance.”

The official report, by Royal TCI Police Force explained: Officers were called to the scene shortly after 1:00 a.m., where the minor was found unresponsive.  Medical personnel confirmed his passing shortly afterwards.

Assistant Superintendent attached to the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit Grantley Williams said, “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends during this difficult time.  The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has initiated an investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.  We recognize that the loss of a young life impacts an entire community.”

Indeed it does.  The Turks and Caicos has been overwhelmed by an uncharacteristically high rate of murder, hitting a record 41 homicides this year; the latest recorded on Sunday November 3, 2024.

This suspected suicide has demanded a different kind of alarm and officials are swift to offer advice.

“As we grieve alongside the minor’s family and community, we want to encourage everyone to remain vigilant in supporting each other.  This loss is a reminder of how important it is to reach out to those around us who may be facing emotional struggles.

“I also wish to appeal to the public; please exercise respect, humanity and sensitivity in what you post or circulate on social media platforms regarding this tragedy.”

The Ministry of Education swooped in as well; identifying the teenager later that day.

“The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture is deeply saddened by the passing of a form 5 student, Lizander Francis, of the HJ Robinson High School. This is indeed a very unfortunate incident, and we extend sympathy to the family, principal, staff and students of the school.

The Ministry is committed to doing everything to lend support to the family, student population and staff. As an immediate response, the Student Support Services (a multiagency initiative) has been activated, where debriefing sessions are being conducted with all students and teachers. The Department of Social Development and the Department of Behavioural Health Services together with Guidance Counselors across Grand Turk have been mobilized to provide psychological first aid to all affected persons. In the coming days, continued group and individual intervention sessions will be extended to students and staff at HJ Robinson High School.”

Lizander Francis was a Fifth Form student at the HJ Robinson High School and a member of the Cadet Corps.  He was a very jovial young man who cared about his classmates and his friends.  He was well mannered, kind, respectful, diligent and full of promise.

The Honorable Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Cultureand the team from the Ministry, Departments and all schools, extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Lizander Francis during this time of profound loss. The Minister stated, “The loss of a child is an unimaginable sorrow, and our hearts naturally seek understanding in moments like these. I commend you to Almighty God and encourage you to find strength and comfort in trusting Him.”

TCI Police also informed, the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), an arm of the Department of Social Development and Welfare, should be contacted at 338 4013 if you have any concerns about a child you believe has been harmed or is at risk of harm. Persons are also encouraged to dial 911.

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Fredrico Johnson Appointed to Permanent Secretary

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Turks and Caicos, November 2, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is excited to announce the appointment of Fredrico Johnson to Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Mr. Johnson is a distinguished senior management leader with over ten years of experience in both public and private sectors.  Most recently, he served as Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs, where he directed the development and implementation of essential policies, ensured public service accountability, and promoted strategic initiatives focused on talent development and succession planning. His contributions to policy development included leading a delegation to the Bahamas for insights into a local government policy initiative and addressing public service backlogs, which greatly enhanced operational efficiency.

Additionally, Mr. Johnson previously served as District Commissioner, managing government services, projects, and financial planning on the island while collaborating with various government departments to deliver critical community services.

Currently, Mr. Johnson is pursuing a Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Walden University (expected 2025) and holds a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in International Business from Johnson & Wales University. His ongoing professional development includes certifications in emergency management, urban search and rescue, and results-driven development.

In response to his appointment, Mr. Johnson shared his thoughts: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed as the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Home Affairs. This role presents an incredible opportunity to serve our nation and its people, and I am driven by the belief that we must let our passion drive our success. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my support system and mentors, who have offered encouragement, guidance, and prayers throughout the years. Their unwavering support has been invaluable on this journey. A special thank you goes to Permanent Secretary James Astwood for his exemplary leadership over the past few years. His dedication and commitment have laid a strong foundation for us to build upon. I am also grateful to our Deputy Governor for her visionary approach, which has provided young leaders in the public service with the platform to grow, flourish, and lead. To the entire team, I am excited to work alongside you as we continue progressing and enhancing our ministry’s service to the public. Together, I am confident we will achieve great things.”

H.E. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, expressed her congratulations, stating, “It is with great enthusiasm that I congratulate Mr. Johnson on his appointment to Permanent Secretary. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to public service. He assisted in leading strategic initiatives that not only improved operational efficiency but also significantly elevated the level of service within the Ministry of Home Affairs. I have every confidence that he will bring the same dedication and innovative thinking to this new role, and I look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact he will have on the Ministry and the public service at large.

Congratulations to Mr. Johnson on your well-deserved promotion”.

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Edgar Howell appointed as Deputy Secretary

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Turks and Caicos, November 2, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Edgar Howell as the new Deputy Secretary within the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture.

Mr. Howell brings a rich educational background, holding an Associates Degree in Biology from the College of the Bahamas (now the University of the Bahamas), a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology and Biochemistry from the University of the West Indies, and a Master’s Degree with distinction in Education Management. He embodies the philosophy that “Education is a lifelong journey,” continually pursuing professional development opportunities that enhance his skills and benefit his responsibilities.

Most recently, Mr. Howell served as Director of Education for fifteen years, following a five-year tenure as Deputy Director of Education. His extensive experience also includes four years of teaching Math, Chemistry, and Integrated Science at Clement Howell High School and one year as Head Teacher at Oseta Jolly Primary School.

Mr. Edgar Howell shared his thoughts on his new role, “Stephen Covey advised – ‘You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage—pleasantly, smilingly, non-apologetically, to say ‘no’ to other things. And the way you do that is by having a bigger ‘yes’ burning inside.’ I accepted that my bigger yes is to nation-building and focused on education and families. While this appointment as Deputy Permanent Secretary includes wider TCIG responsibilities, my values of Faith, Family, Patriotism, and Stewardship keep my bigger yes well aligned. My parents instilled a belief that ‘a charge to keep have I, a God to glorify…’ As always, I lean on the promise of Isaiah 41:10 – ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

E. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service expressed her confidence in Mr. Howell’s capabilities, stating, “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Howell on his new appointment. His unwavering dedication to the education sector over many years, coupled with his passion for nurturing the potential of our youth, is truly commendable. We eagerly look forward to the contributions he will further bring to our educational initiatives and the positive impact he will make in fostering the development of our community and the bright future of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Congratulations, Mr Howell, on your well-deserved promotion.”

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