FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture, and Religious Affairs Delivers Impressive Quarterly Report on Achievements

April 4, 2024 – Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture, and Religious Affairs has released its quarterly performance report, (MOT Quarterly Report – Q4 -2023-2024.pdf ) showcasing a plethora of accomplishments across various sectors. From ground-breaking initiatives in agriculture to the preservation of cultural heritage, the Ministry’s efforts underscore its commitment to sustainable development and the enrichment of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Agriculture Advancements

In the realm of agriculture, the Ministry has spearheaded several notable initiatives aimed at enhancing the sector’s productivity and resilience. Among the highlights is the successful launch of the “Business in a Box” initiative in Grand Turk and other Family Islands, providing local entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the agricultural market. Furthermore, significant strides have been made in leveraging technology, with the advancement of an online platform following successful testing with staff and importers in Providenciales.

Moreover, the Ministry has demonstrated its dedication to animal welfare and biosecurity through the finalization of amendments and enactment for implementing the Dog Control, Animal Control, and Biosecurity Ordinances. Collaborative efforts with local NGOs, such as the Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPCA), have resulted in tangible outcomes, including the sterilization of 230 animals through Spay and Neuter Clinics in January and February 2024.

Continuing its commitment to sustainable practices, the Ministry is actively engaged in ongoing cooperation with Ministry of Health officials and stakeholders to finalize the draft of the Pesticide Bill, further bolstering environmental protection and agricultural sustainability.

Fisheries and Marine Resource Management

In the domain of fisheries and marine resource management, the Ministry has demonstrated commendable progress in addressing key challenges and advancing strategic objectives. Efforts to bridge identified gaps in the TCI III Code Action Plan in preparation for the III Code Audit in 2024 underscore the Ministry’s commitment to international standards and best practices.

Additionally, the implementation of the Small Craft Policy and the initiation of a consultancy for sustainable livelihood assessment in collaboration with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) highlight the Ministry’s proactive approach to fostering economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, significant investments have been made in infrastructure and legislation, including the approval of a supplemental budget of $200,000 USD for the construction of 800 additional lobster Casitas by commercial fishermen. Legislative advancements, such as the implementation of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 2022 and supporting regulations, underscore the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing maritime safety and governance.

Department of Tourism Regulations

The Department of Tourism Regulations (DTR) continues to prioritize efficiency and excellence in its operations, with ongoing efforts focused on enhancing regulatory frameworks and facilitating industry growth. Initiatives such as the continuation of TIDES training and alignment of the DTR ordinance with Business Licensing underscore the Department’s commitment to professionalism and service excellence.

Furthermore, the Department remains dedicated to leveraging technology for streamlined processes, with the launch of QR codes for the Taxi Rating System and the development of an efficient online application process for accommodation licenses.

Experience Turks and Caicos Islands

Experience Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is committed to enhancing the tourism experience through strategic initiatives aimed at showcasing the destination’s unique attractions and cultural heritage. Collaborative efforts with the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) and the National Trust have resulted in the enhancement of key sites such as Bambara, while new experiences such as fish fry events in Provo and Grand Turk promise to enrich visitor experiences and promote local culture.

Furthermore, the marketing team’s endeavours to develop a new website for Experience TCI and enhance destination signage underscore the Ministry’s commitment to promoting tourism growth and sustainability.

Cultural Preservation and Heritage

The Ministry’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands is evident through its multifaceted initiatives aimed at showcasing local talent and traditions. The launch of a comprehensive cultural and heritage registry serves as a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to amplifying the voices of artisans, musicians, and cultural ambassadors across the archipelago.

Additionally, ongoing workshops and programs aimed at nurturing traditional skills and fostering community engagement underscore the Ministry’s dedication to preserving the cultural legacy of the TCI for future generations.

Conclusion

As the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture, and Religious Affairs continues to forge ahead with its strategic objectives, the quarterly performance report serves as a testament to its unwavering commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through collaboration, innovation, and dedication, the Ministry remains steadfast in its mission to build a brighter and more prosperous future for all residents and visitors alike.

For media inquiries, please contact: Head of Secretariate, Melissa Rolle, MROLLE@gov.tc

#TheBahamas, April 15, 2024 – The Bahamas Government says the Grand Bahama Port Authority owes over $300 million, now causing a very public squabble between the two entities and  potential years long  arbitration proceedings.

The total owed according to the government is $357 million over the last five fiscal years, 2018-2022.

Seemingly down to business, the Davis Administration, according to reports,  sent a letter to the Port Authority at the start of the month, in which 30 days was given for them to pay up.

If the 30-day deadline isn’t met, Davis says the Government has the right to start arbitration proceedings.

A Grand Bahama attorney who criticized the government’s actions, also expressed that the tension could lead to up to five years of arbitration.

The letter, as reported by the Tribune, refers to clause 1(5)(c) of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement.

Regarding the tensions between the Port Authority and the Government, the financial conflict apparently rests on Davis’ accusation that the Port Authority failed to follow its obligations under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement.

“Unfortunately, the Port Authority has not been living up to its legal obligations to develop and grow the economy in Freeport. In many cases, the government has had to step in where the Port has failed. Let’s be clear about what this means: it means that the Bahamian people have been subsidizing the profits of these private shareholders! That is not right. You deserve flourishing, thriving communities. You deserve an inclusive economy that generates opportunity, dignity, and security. You deserve what is owed to you under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement,” Davis said.

In a clap back at the Government’s accusations, the Port Authority in reports are quoted declining the Government’s claim that they owe the “sum of $357 million.”

“We reject and will robustly defend against this claim, which we firmly believe will be defeated,” it stated.

Davis, who was speaking in a meeting on Saturday April 6, informed that before things got to this level, they were having meetings.

“We had many, many meetings and exchanges before we arrived at this point. But there were too many delays and too many dead ends. When only one side appears interested in advancement – and when the people of Freeport urgently need change and progress – then decisive action is the only choice,” he maintained.

The now peaked tension was sparked in June of 2023 when Davis stated that the Authority is failing to maintain Freeport’s infrastructure and encourage the growth of the city, as it claimed owed expenses, now said to be the hundreds of millions.

To this, in June 2023, the free quasi-governmental authority responded saying the sums stated by the government are “contested” and “it is yet to be satisfied,” claims reports say, are supported by credible evidence.

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

#TheBahamas#DavisAdministration#PortAuthority, April 9, 2024– The Bahamas Government according to reports, says the Grand Bahama Port Authority owes 357 million dollars in back payments over the last five fiscal years, 2018 to 2022, and in a letter sent to the Port Authority last week by the Davis Administration, the government is giving them 30 days to pay up. However, the Port Authority clapped back in a statement, denying the government’s claim saying that they do not owe the sum of 357 million dollars