News
Response to Premier’s press conference on Crime
By: Hon. Edwin A. Astwood
Leader/PDM
Leader of the Opposition
Drugs?? Lights?? Gun Amnesty??
#TurksandCaicos, September 6, 2022 – Like many concerned citizens, I listened to the Premier’s Press Conference on Monday evening. I wanted to hear about firm, decisive, calculated measures that will immediately take place in the community of Five Cays, and then wanted to hear the general crime fighting/prevention plan, of the Premier and his team, for the entire country.
We heard Premiere Misick and his team, in no exact words, tell the vast majority of responsible, hardworking residents of Five Cays, ‘You’re on your own.’
I heard nothing that would make the residents of Five Cays feel safer in their homes this night, nor in the coming nights. Additionally, I heard nothing that would make our people in Five Cays feel safer during the daytime. This is unacceptable to the people, they needed to hear about containment and preventative measures that will be put into action immediately.
Instead, we heard the Honourable Premier saying much about drugs being the cause of the violence in these communities, really drugs Mr. Premier?
We heard the Premier and Minister of Education talking about putting in 20 more streetlights and cutting back bushes. Is that the best the Premier and his team can come up with? Do they know that many incidents of crime happen in the daylight, and in places where there are little to no bushes? Lights are needed, and bushes need to be cut back, but these could NOT be the answers given in a press conference, after one of the deadliest weekends in our country’s history.
We also heard the Hon. Premier and his team talk about another gun amnesty. How successful has that been in the past in preventing violent crimes? Don’t they know that persons who give up guns are usually individuals who have no intentions of committing a crime? It appears that they are clueless when it comes to these matters.
No self-proclaimed criminal would give up all their weapons, and let their so-called enemies or competitors have all the firepower. That does not make any sense to me, and I don’t think it would make any sense to them, and we should never underestimate those individuals who engage in criminal activities.
The Hon. Premier and his team cannot, and will not be offering the people of Five Cays, and the rest of the country a real answer to their questions. They won’t offer a better vision or a new set of ideas. To date, the country does not know anything about the current PNP administration’s Crime Prevention Plan. Do they have one?
Under my leadership and a PDM government, we will be committed to properly dealing with crime in the Turks and
Caicos Islands. We also stand ready to help or lead the way for this failing PNP administration on this crime issue now.
A PDM government, under my leadership, would have requested immediately having tactical forces patrolling the streets of five cays all day and night until the problem is eradicated.
A PDM government, under my leadership, would immediately pass a Supplementary Bill through the House of Assembly for 15 million dollars to:
- Hire past local police officers, and attain the services of gang violence specialist officers from around the region and elsewhere.
- Purchase of 6 mobile police stations to be dispersed throughout the communities of Providenciales.
- Purchasing of 3 additional patrol boats, with a heavy machine gun, and auxiliary medium machine gun.
- Purchasing 2 armored combat vehicles armed with a heavy machine gun.
- Purchasing advanced drone surveillance equipment with the hiring of complementary operators.
A PDM government, under my leadership, will act swiftly in amending legislation to;
- Lengthen the sentence time for violent crimes and those in possession of an unlicensed firearm.
- Removing the chance of parole for those committing murder in the first degree.
- Not granting bail to any unlicensed firearm offender.
- And for the most heinous and gruesome crimes, through consultation and direction the people of the entire country, consider whether or not to implement the death penalty (lethal Injection).
- Ensure the protections of officers are in place for when it was objectively reasonable to use deadly force, based on the facts and circumstances known to the police officer at that particular time the decision to use deadly force was made.
A PDM government, under my leadership, is committed to acting quickly in immediately dealing with some of the root causes of crime, in particular, unemployment and lack of opportunities;
- Provide 200 long-term contracts (one year) yearly, each valuing $40,000, specifically targeting the most vulnerable young adults (this adds up to $8M per year).
- Providing 400 additional scholarships targeting those interested in nontraditional scholarship areas – the performing arts, Visual arts, graphic designing, agriculture, aquaculture (fish farming), mechanics, furniture making, cooking, etc. (this adds up to $8M per year).
- Provide an easier streamlined path for young people with business ideas to Access Capital, through grants ranging from $40,000 to $70,000.
I call upon Premier Misick and his government to immediately bring a supplementary bill of $10 -15 million to the House of Assembly for crime detection /prevention:
I would recommend using it for immediately hiring capable past local police officers, bringing in seasoned gang violence tactical officers from around the region and elsewhere- and offering them a very attractive compensation package with the desired protections. I also recommend using the appropriated funds used for the Purchasing of 6 mobile police stations for Providenciales, 3 additional patrol boats, 2 armored combat vehicles armed with a heavy machine gun, and an advanced drone surveillance system.
The PDM wants our country to succeed. We want our people, visitors, and investors to feel and be safe. We want this PNP government to understand that the true measure of our prosperity is more than just a running tally of every budget sheet and annual surplus reports. It is about the happiness and level of success of our people.
We the PDM see the measure of prosperity NOT just by our total GDP, but by how well the typical family is doing, and whether they can go as far as their dreams and hard work will take them.
I don’t care how many ways you try to explain it: People are not living their best lives. Private Jets, condos, and real estate sales are not people. People are people. And our people are now further away from living their best lives, and are now afraid to live in their own homes and their communities.
Act now or get the H*** out the way.
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: Beaches Turks & Caicos recently transformed its French Village Lawn into a vibrant celebration as it hosted the highly anticipated “All That’s Good Road Show.” This dynamic team member engagement initiative, packed with high-energy entertainment, delicious food and drinks, exciting games and spirited sporting activities, was designed to celebrate and thank the resort’s invaluable team members.
The “All That’s Good Road Show” began its Caribbean tour in Antigua and has since made stops in Barbados, Saint Vincent and the
Grenadines, Curacao and the Bahamas. It was conceptualized by Jamie Green, Sandals Corporate Manager for Employee Experience, who had initial success with the road show across Jamaican resorts. With the impact from the experience in Jamaica and the enthusiastic support of Sandals Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, the event was expanded across the Caribbean, bringing its unique brand of celebration to all the resorts in the chain.
“This event is all about celebrating our team members and recognizing the outstanding work they consistently deliver,” explained Green. “We wanted to create a fun and exciting environment that fosters camaraderie, boosts morale and leaves everyone feeling inspired and appreciated.”
The Turks & Caicos leg of the Road Show was a true spectacle, headlined by international dancehall artiste Konshens, who was eagerly received by team members. Emcee Huntley ‘Super P’ Forbes II kept the energy levels soaring, while DJs Drex, Troy, and Keeli spun infectious tunes that had everyone on their feet. Jamie Green himself joined in the fun as an energetic emcee, further engaging the crowd and amplifying the already vibrant atmosphere.
“The All That’s Good Road Show for Beaches Turks & Caicos was more than just a party; it was a heartfelt expression of gratitude and a testament to the power of teamwork and dedication,” shared Beaches Human Resources Manager Owenta Colby.
With just over six hundred team members in attendance, the event was a resounding success.
“To be able to walk away with a 65inch smart TV is one of the most rewarding prizes that any team member could have asked for at this event,” said Maxine Salmon, Kids Camp supervisor. “I’ll be more comfortable watching TV at home with my family. This event really has been a top tier team member experience.”
“The entertainment package was a blast. The gifts and prizes were high value items for all team members to celebrate and benefit. Each gift
added a great sense of satisfaction. I received a high-powered pressure washer that will help me to keep my vehicle clean without having to go to the car wash. The event allowed team members to unwind and enjoy the day uninterrupted. We were treated like royalty,” added Tarquinio Robinson from the housekeeping department.
A significant highlight of the Road Show was the generous distribution of prizes. Team members walked away with an impressive array of gifts, ranging from essential household appliances to exciting regional vacation stays. Gift baskets overflowed with treats and lucky winners snagged smart televisions, I-phones and other coveted electronics.
The success of the “All That’s Good Road Show” was further amplified by the invaluable support of corporate sponsors and partners, including Flow, Got You Covered, Gilley’s Enterprises, Graceway Sports Center, IGA Supermarkets, Other People’s Affair, Java Island, Caribbean Cruising and Digicel. Their contributions added to the event’s pomp and flair, demonstrating a shared commitment to recognizing and rewarding the hard work of the Beaches Turks & Caicos team.
“The All That’s Good Road Show was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of appreciation and the importance of investing in the well-being of our dedicated team members,” said Beaches Turks and Caicos resort Managing Director James McAnally. “It’s a great reminder that when team members feel valued and inspired, they are empowered to continue delivering exceptional experiences that set Beaches Turks & Caicos apart. The Road Show left a ripple effect of positivity and renewed enthusiasm, ensuring that the spirit of teamwork and dedication will continue to thrive at this resort for years to come.”
News
From Classroom to Fine Dining: Clement Howell High Students Experience Etiquette Training at Beaches TCI
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: Beaches Turks & Caicos (BTC) recently offered nearly 40 students and educators from
Clement Howell High School a memorable lesson in fine dining and social etiquette as part of their Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) curriculum.
Held at the resort’s elegant Sapodillas Restaurant, the interactive session combined theory with real-world experience. The training emphasised the importance of table setting, polite dining practices and the value of social graces—skills designed to prepare students for both personal and professional spaces.
“This partnership enhances our students’ educational experience by helping them develop essential life skills,” said Tanisha Graham, guidance counsellor at Clement Howell High. “They were captivated by the ambience, the exceptional service and the chance to engage with professionals in a fine dining setting.”
The session was led by BTC’s team members from the learning & development, food & beverage and public relations departments. Together,
they highlighted how dining etiquette reflects respect, cultural awareness and confidence—important attributes for young adults preparing for future opportunities.
“As young adults, it’s important to understand the value of proper dining etiquette,” noted Claude Williams, food and beverage supervisor. “These skills boost your confidence and help you make lasting, positive impressions in any setting.”
Francillia Austin from the learning & development team added, “chivalry isn’t dead. Both young men and women benefit from learning to be respectful, poised and socially aware. These qualities shape future leaders.”
Managing Director James McAnally emphasised the long-term vision of such partnerships, “at Beaches, our goal is to inspire the next
generation. We believe in education, community engagement and sustainability. This collaboration is a reflection of our shared responsibility to uplift the region. To the students, I say—explore beyond your ordinary and reach for the stars.”
This training is just one example of BTC’s ongoing commitment to youth development and education across the Turks & Caicos Islands and the wider Caribbean. The resort continues to offer impactful experiences that go beyond the classroom by blending hospitality with mentorship.
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