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Passed:  $388.9 Million Budget for TCI for 2022-2023

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By Deandrea Hamilton

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#TurksandCaicos, May 12, 2022 – Government spending for the Turks and Caicos Islands is projected to swell by 20 per cent and the PNP Administration is optimistic about what the increase will mean toward national development.

According to the presentations, earnings for the TCI Government are expected outpace expenses in the Budget which was passed in Parliament on Thursday May 5, 2022 and it gives TCIG an additional $78 million as approved for spending in the new fiscal year.

“Despite, the challenges around the world, our policies and priorities are deliberately designed to position our country to continue its economic rebound through 2022 and 2023.   We are projecting that economic growth will be fueled by continued strong recoveries in the tourism, construction, and the real estate sectors.

Local authorities and the international rating agencies believe that as long as the strong performance in the tourism, construction, and real estate sectors remains, Real GDP will continue to grow.

They are forecasting a greater than 7% growth in 2022, and an average growth of around 5% for the following 3 years – i.e. 2023, 2024, and 2025.

This positive forecast comes on the heels of estimates that the TCI economy grew by more than 10% in 2021.

Notwithstanding the very strong growth last year, the GDP remains below pre-pandemic levels. Mr. Speaker, the economy is simply “catching up” after a significant decline of approximately 27% that it experienced in 2020.

Mr. Speaker, our Government will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to expand and diversify the economy, and most importantly create opportunities and prosperity for all our people,” said the Deputy Premier.

The PNP administration with its Budget presented under the banner: ‘An Economy that Works for All People, Opportunity and Prosperity’ has created a new category in the expenditure estimates, and it gives the National budget a category called Economic Affairs which due to its focus areas makes it the allocation leader.  For the first time in decades, health care will not get the lion’s share of the TCI budget, Economic Affairs will.

According to DP and Minister of Finance E. Jay Saunders this includes:  infrastructure development and land acquisition; tourism product enhancement, agriculture, catastrophic risk insurance; Environmental and Coastal resources; Energy & Utilities and Media & Communications.

“We want our people to live their best lives! We are laying the foundations to advance growth and development. We are creating a future that our people can look forward to and one that our young people can get excited about.

We made several promises in The People’s Contract on how we would create that future,” said Hon Saunders in his maiden Budget Communication.

The allocation for Economic Affairs is $103 million dollars; putting the new grouping at the top of the heap.

At No. 2 is health care.

“Mr. Speaker, the health of our people continues to be a significant priority of our Government. That is why we are allocating over $78.9M (20%) of the budgeted expenditure to health care delivery.  Our focus remains the provision of quality care, including: Public Health and Hospital Services; Mental Health; Research; Health Emergencies;  Dental; Laboratory Services; the promotion of Healthy Lifestyles, and Policy Planning.

The third largest allocation said Hon Saunders is $63.7 for public order and safety.

“Of this amount:  $32.5M will go towards Police Services; $19.2M is for the Law Courts, AG Chambers, Director Public Prosecution, Judicial Administration, and the Labour Tribunal; $8.2M for Public Order, including Disaster Management, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration, and Repatriations;      $5.4M for Prisons, Correctional, and Rehabilitation Services and $1.3M dollars for Fire and Rescue.”

In the No. 4 spot is what the minister called General Public services and including the Governor’s office, the Premier’s office and the House of assembly and Education rounds out the top 5 with an increase to $37.5 million this financial period.

“Like prior PNP administrations, we are increasing the education and training capacity of the TCI.  We are focused on creating modern schools that are accessible, equipped with the latest technical tools, and the right student/ teacher ratios.

We are creating curricula that provides the right mix of literacy, numeracy, and technology to best position our students to thrive in the global marketplace.

We are continuing our investment in early childhood, primary, secondary, tertiary, and vocational education with an investment of $37.5M.

Our priorities include:  Improving early childhood, primary, secondary, and tertiary education;  Providing scholarships to young people at the community college level; Maintaining recreational/sporting facilities;  Supporting TVET pursuits.”

These and other national spending reveals came in the Budget Communication delivered by the minister on Tuesday May 3, 2022.

As the Budget Communication rolled out the future for spending, Hon Saunders introduced the plans with comparisons, providing some context on the economic performance of the Turks and Caicos Islands for the previous period.

“Mr. Speaker, the Import Receipts tell a story of feverish activity, especially in the construction sector.  As an example, total Merchandise Imports – i.e. imports into the country – for Calendar Year 2021 were valued at $485.9M, which was a year-over-year increase of approximately $136M (39%) over 2020.

And I am happy to report that 2022 is looking equally as strong.

During the first three months of 2022 (i.e., January – March), Merchandise Imports increased by $59.7M over the same period in 2021. In the first quarter of 2021, Merchandise Imports were valued at $93.9M. This year, first quarter imports were at $153.6M. That’s a 64% improvement!  Mr. Speaker, that is performance!”

Turks and Caicos Islands in the 2021-2022 fiscal year over-earned by $90 million dollars and underspent by $20 million dollars, for what was a banner year all around.

In what may be its best performance ever the TCI economy has generated a $391 million dollar revenue.

In addition to that, the government spent a staggering $20 million dollars less than was budgeted for the year 2021-2022.

“From this surplus, we put $67.6M into the country’s Cash Reserves, which increased it from $121.7M (the balance at the start of the financial year on the 1st April 2021) to $189.4M – the closing balance at the end of the financial year (i.e. 31st March 2022).

That is a 56% increase Mr. Speaker, and that is performance!

Mr. Speaker, due to the country’s strong financial performance under our Government’s stewardship, we have not had to draw down on any of the pre-approved debt facilities at our disposal. And as a result, Mr. Speaker, I am proud to report that we retired the $80M revolving Credit Facility obtained in 2020.”

DP Saunders said $5.8 million is for new projects including a mobile police station and a totally new station to replace the rundown facility which is home to Grand Turk police.

“An additional $1.4M has been allocated to enhance border protection and security. The TCI Regiment will see an increase in its reserve force by 20 officers, with 2 full time permanent posts. A Defence Board will be established to provide oversight.

12 Marine officers will be added to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF), plus 10 new Immigration Officers. In addition, more money will be allocated to the RT&CIPF to improve intelligence gathering and investigations as we step up crime fighting efforts.”

With all this financial buoyancy from the last fiscal period, Deputy Premier Saunders said this coming financial period is forecast to be even better.

The government’s revenue is projected to hit nearly $400 million dollars well ahead of the 2025 goal.

“That is why I am delighted to report to this honorable house and to the listening public, that:

  1. Total Revenues collected for financial year 2021/22 was $391.1M, and 2. For the entire financial year of 2021/22 (i.e. from 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2022), which was our Government’s first year in office, every month, we achieved a surplus.

Mr. Speaker, I believe this level of annual revenues to be historic, but I stand to be corrected. Mr. Speaker, $391.1M is: $145M (59%) higher than the average revenues collected over the past 10 financial years, $77.3M (25%) higher than the $315M achieved in the previous best year (i.e. FY2019/20) over the past 10 financial years for revenue collections, $27.5M (7.6%) higher than our original forecast of $363.6M, and $188.8M (93.3%) higher than the Collections for FY2020/21 of $202.3M.

That is performance Mr. Speaker, but we should not be surprised, ‘as The plans of the diligent lead to profit…’ (Proverbs Chapter 21, Verse 5). Mr. Speaker, what seemed optimistic last year, with the blessings of God, now seems pessimistic.

Mr. Speaker, our healthy Operating Surplus, coupled with prudent spending practices, have allowed our Government to maintain a resilient Cash Flow position and strong Cash Reserves,” said E. Jay Saunders, the Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade and Deputy Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The National Budget was debated over two days and passed in the House of Assembly on Thursday May 5, 2022.

News

Liberty Business launches in Turks and Caicos Islands

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enabling digital transformation across key sectors and supporting enterprise customers

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (September 17, 2026) – Liberty Business has officially launched in the Turks and Caicos Islands, signalling the company’s continued transformation and strengthening its commitment to helping businesses navigate digital change, drive growth and build greater resilience.

The announcement was made during a special stakeholder event attended by government representatives, business leaders, industry partners, customers and members of the media, marking the next chapter in the company’s long-standing relationship with the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Today represents far more than the introduction of a new name. It reflects our continued evolution as a business and our commitment to being a trusted technology partner for organisations navigating an increasingly digital economy,” said Susanna O’Sullivan, Vice President General Manager, Flow North Caribbean, Liberty Caribbean.

“Through Liberty Business, we are bringing together the strength and capabilities of Liberty Caribbean with local expertise to help businesses across the Turks and Caicos Islands connect, protect, innovate and grow. We want to be a partner that understands the ambitions of our customers and works alongside them to create meaningful business value.”

Liberty Caribbean is the operator of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, serving customers across more than twenty markets in the region.

The launch of Liberty Business builds on the company’s long-standing presence in the Turks and Caicos Islands and its continued investment in communications infrastructure, technology and digital capabilities across the Caribbean.

Today, Liberty Caribbean operates one of the region’s most extensive communications networks, supported by approximately 50,000 kilometres of subsea and terrestrial fibre infrastructure, helping enable resilient, secure and high-performance connectivity across the region.

For businesses, the evolution comes at a time when technology is playing an increasingly important role in productivity, customer experience, cybersecurity, business continuity and growth.

“Businesses today need more than connectivity. They need technology solutions that can help them operate efficiently, protect their information, support their people and respond to change. We are excited to begin this next chapter with businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands and to work together to build a smarter, stronger, more resilient and more connected digital future,” said O’Sullivan.

Liberty Business brings together an integrated portfolio of enterprise solutions, including advanced connectivity, cybersecurity, cloud services, data centre solutions, managed services, enterprise mobility and unified communications under a single brand dedicated to supporting the evolving needs of business customers.

Also speaking at the launch, Joanne Missick, Country Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands, said the introduction of Liberty Business demonstrates the company’s commitment to evolving alongside the local business community.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is a dynamic market with tremendous potential, and our businesses are increasingly embracing technology as an enabler of growth,” said Missick.

“From tourism and hospitality to financial services, real estate, construction, professional services and entrepreneurship, organisations are looking for ways to become more efficient, secure and resilient. Liberty Business gives us the opportunity to engage our customers differently – understanding their individual needs and helping them identify technology solutions that can support their ambitions.”

Missick added that the company’s approach is centred on building lasting relationships with businesses and providing solutions that address real-world challenges.

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Education

TCI Schools Invited to Participate in 2026 National Student Council Election

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Thursday, 17 September 2026: The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture has partnered with the Turks and Caicos Islands Elections Department to bring an exciting national election experience directly to high school students across the country with the launch of the 2026 National Student Council (NSC) Election.

Held under the theme “Your Voice. Your Country. Your Future.”, the initiative will give students from all 14 public and private high schools the chance to campaign, vote and compete for national student leadership positions, while gaining first-hand experience of the electoral process.

Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, said the initiative gives young people a national platform to share their ideas and develop their leadership skills.

“Our young people have ideas, opinions and perspectives that deserve to be heard, and this election gives them a national platform to use their voices in a meaningful way. We want our students to step forward with confidence, share the issues that matter to them and experience what it means to lead and represent others.” She continued, “I am particularly excited to see students from schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands getting involved, supporting their candidates and participating in the voting process. I encourage every school to embrace this opportunity and help us create an experience that our students will learn from and enjoy.”

Each high school will nominate one student candidate to represent their school at the national level. Candidates will campaign for the positions of President and Vice President, sharing their ideas, priorities and plans with student voters across the Turks and Caicos Islands. Both positions will be decided by electronic vote among high school students across the country.

The remaining four positions on the six-member National Student Council:  Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer and Public Relations Officer. will be determined through an internal vote among the top candidates following the national election.

The election will mirror several elements of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ electoral process. Candidates will choose a party name, colour and symbol, develop a manifesto and campaign slogan, and make their case to student voters. Their names, party information and symbols will appear on an electronic ballot, giving students the opportunity to experience the process as both candidates and voters.

Acting Elections Supervisor Willette Pratt stated that the timing of the initiative is particularly significant as the country continues its focus on civic awareness and youth participation.

“Coming on the heels of Constitution Day and as we prepare to celebrate National Youth Week this September, this is a timely opportunity to put civic education into practice. We want young people to understand that democracy is not only about casting a vote; it is about being informed, participating and understanding that their voice matters. We are excited to see our schools and students embrace the experience.”

Once students are selected and endorsed by their school, candidates must submit a completed Candidate Information Form, a Student Manifesto of no more than 250 words, and a 45- to 60-second Campaign Video PSA introducing themselves and outlining the issues and priorities they hope to champion.

Candidates are expected to campaign fairly and respectfully, focusing on ideas, student issues and their plans as aspiring student leaders. Personal attacks, bullying, false or misleading information, and offering gifts or incentives in exchange for votes are prohibited. Breaches of the campaign code of conduct may result in the loss of campaign privileges or disqualification.

For candidates, it is a chance to share their ideas and test their leadership skills on a national platform. For student voters, it is an opportunity to have a say in who represents them and experience the electoral process first-hand.

With candidate selection underway, the Elections Department and Ministry of Education are looking forward to seeing students step forward, bring their ideas to the campaign and, ultimately, seeing young voters across the country make their choice at the ballot.

The 2026 National Student Council Election is an opportunity for young people to do more than learn about leadership and democracy — it gives them the chance to take part. Your Voice. Your Country. Your Future.

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Health

Know the Possible Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer

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September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – which means it is time to watch out for the warning signs. Possible signs include slow urine flow and loss of bladder control — but if this common cancer is caught before it spreads, the prognosis is good.

Your prostate is only about the size of a walnut. But this small gland can cause big problems if left unchecked.

Warning signs of prostate cancer

“Most men with prostate cancer don’t have symptoms at first,” says urologist Christopher Weight, MD. But if you notice certain warning signs, like changes in your pee routine or pain, it’s a good idea to visit a urologist.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. But when it’s found early, it’s also one of the most treatable. Knowing the signs and talking with a healthcare provider about screening could save your life.

So, what should you look out for?

Slow or weak urine flow

Trouble starting to pee — called urinary hesitancy — is common as men get older. You may also notice slow flow or dribbling. Or your flow may stop altogether. The most common cause is benign prostatic hyperplasia. Still, if you experience these symptoms, it’s important to get your prostate checked.

Frequent need to urinate

A frequent and sometimes urgent need to urinate, especially at night, may be a sign of nerve damage or an infection. Or it could indicate that a tumor is putting pressure on your bladder and urethra.

Painful or burning urination

Pain or burning when you pee — called dysuria — is usually linked to a urinary tract infection (UTI). But in some cases, it can signal prostate cancer. This is especially true when it’s paired with other symptoms.

Blood in your urine

Another possible warning sign of prostate cancer is hematuria, or blood in your pee. Though this can be associated with other health issues, including a UTI, it’s worth checking out.

Prostate pain

Unexplained prostate pain — especially when sitting — can be an early sign of trouble. “It might also mean an infection, but only your urologist can say for certain,” Dr. Weight says.

Loss of bladder or bowel control

Bladder or bowel incontinence can happen with age or other medical conditions. But if you’re leaking urine or can’t control bowel movements, talk to a doctor to rule out prostate cancer.

Changes in sexual function

These symptoms can stem from many causes, but they may also signal prostate cancer. Talk to a urologist if you notice:

  • Painful ejaculation
  • Decreased volume of ejaculation
  • Inability to keep an erection
  • Blood in your semen (hematospermia)

Sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being. So, if something feels off, it’s not just OK to speak up — it’s vital.

Later-stage signs

These symptoms often only appear when prostate cancer has spread:

  • Ongoing pain in your lower back, hips or chest
  • Numbness in your legs or feet

“Of course, there are endless other reasons that your back may hurt or that you have tingling in your toes that are entirely separate from any prostate troubles. But they can also be signs of later stages of prostate cancer,” Dr. Weight clarifies.

Importance of prostate cancer screening

“Since early-stage prostate cancer doesn’t cause symptoms, many men don’t know they have it,” Dr. Weight notes. “That’s why regular screening is so important — it helps catch prostate cancer early, when treatment is most effective.”

A healthcare provider may recommend screening if you’re between the ages of 55 and 69, or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.

Screening might feel uncomfortable to think about, but skipping it could mean missing a chance to catch prostate cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.

“A simple blood test, often followed by a physical exam if needed, gives your doctor important information about your prostate health,” Dr Weight says.
Early detection doesn’t just improve treatment options — it can also give you peace of mind.

Lower your risk of prostate cancer

“You can’t do anything about some of the risk factors for prostate cancer, like age or family history,” Dr. Weight recognizes. “But you can make lifestyle choices that support a healthier prostate.”

These small steps may make a difference:

  • Get regular prostate screenings.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Eat a nutritious diet.
  • Quit smoking.

“When prostate cancer is diagnosed before it spreads to other parts of the body, about 99% of people live at least five years after diagnosis,” he continues. “But the survival rate is much lower if the cancer has spread.”

That’s why it’s so important to stay proactive. Regular screenings, healthy habits and paying attention to changes in your body can make all the difference. Talk to a provider about the right plan for you.

CREDIT: CLEVELAND CLINIC

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