News
Illegal Migration to TCI-The Risk of Open Borders
#TurksandCaicos, August 2, 2023 – The Turks and Caicos Islands is at a breaking point with the influx of illegal immigration. There are rising public demands for more vigorous border enforcement and rightfully so.
Over the past 7 years and beyond, thousands of illegal immigrants desperately and deliberately violated our nation’s laws by unlawfully embarking on our shores in TCI.
Countless number of illegal sloops have been intercepted, with some falling under the radar and making landfall. Albeit, like a number of other developed countries, we are not alone in this fight.
It seriously calls into question whether the British government is putting forward their best efforts to help protect
our borders.
With border protection falling squarely under the purview of our appointed Governors, it’s pretty evident they haven’t done everything within their powers and using every available resource at their disposal.
Many welcome the fact this new Governor has placed illegal immigration concerns front and center, and as one of her top priorities to address.
With TCI having such porous borders and limited resources, this makes it much more challenging to control.
The recent meeting held by our politicians with the British MP responsible for our territory, was a positive step in the right direction. Nevertheless, are we prepared to hold their feet to the fire and demand follow through and accountability?
The question many concerned citizens are still grappling with is, whether or not the politicians are ramping up enough pressure on the UK, which will force them to push the boundaries.
In my opinion, we are losing the battle in part, due to the failure and lack of cohesiveness of both political parties to come to terms on an immigration policy that works for all concerned.
Let’s be very clear, this is not a PDM, PNP or PDA issue. It’s a Turks and Caicos Islands issue. As we can see from successive governments, the battle is still raging on.
It’s fair to say, all parties wants what’s best for the country. So, how do we get commonly held ideas and beliefs on immigration to align without politicizing it? If anyone thinks it can be solved independently, it’s naive realism.
With the Dominican Republic having a housing deficit and Haiti becoming more and more unstable, we are facing a true emergency situation here and our national security could be in jeopardy.
It’s hard to imagine anymore illegal or undocumented migrants embarking on our shores. With that in mind, there is absolutely no time to waste.
The TCI way of life and the future of our natural environment and resources are also at risk.
It will largely depend on our ability to restore the proper balance between our own needs and the unlimited demands of poachers on our fishing banks and those that are on the move to our shores.
The relentless stream of Haitian vessels, depict the gritty realities of human suffering and the deep complexity of our own immigration policies.
I’m afraid, other countries facing similar political and economic instability, will use Haiti as a gateway to get to TCI, as we have seen with the Sri Lankan refugees.
As a British dependent overseas territory, can they do more to assist us? I applaud the former Governor, Nigel Dakin and the administration for their efforts with taking on the initiative to put in place a local regiment. This initiative provided that additional layer of external protection which the country could certainly benefit from.
Nevertheless, I question whether or not we have been able to effectively mobilized this unit from a strategic standpoint in the best interest of the country?
In times like these, how can we capitalize on the training and strength of the TCI regiment to help better protect our borders?
Although this is not exactly what this unit was designed for, as they continue to build those capabilities, I see it as a way forward in terms of responding to what is in fact a shifting and very dynamic landscape threat, be it on land or at sea.
Why not call into action the TCI regiment, and set up a self-sufficient camp on the beaches or in the marsh areas with revolving overnight shifts?
This will put them in a better position and readiness to round up migrants who are able to evade the radar system, making landfall and trying to escape authorities.
Utilizing cost effective methods like drone surveillance should also be deployed if we haven’t done so already. In an
island cluster like TCI, implementing the proper intervention would have a direct impact.
If we take the time to analyze the frequency and trend of when and where these illegal sloops are making landfall, for the most part the islands and geographical location remains relatively unchanged.
Ideally, in addition to the joint operation task force recently formed between the Bahamian and TCI government, it would make sense for the UK to deploy a decommissioned British navy vessel in the region more frequently and for a longer period of time.
This will provide the much needed assistance and more extensive capabilities for faster interception of these sloops before they even enter our waters.
It’s time we stop playing defense and ramp up our offense strategy. As we are well aware, detection of these vessels is only the first step in the overall prevention strategy.
Once these sloops enters our waters or make landfall, consequently, it opens the doors to all sorts of illegal operations, trafficking and security fears. The frequency of repatriation in itself, is also draining on our country’s limited financial resources.
Make no mistake about it, we welcome immigrants, because we know many are only seeking a better way of life or fleeing violence. I also agree, more can and should be done both regionally and internationally to assist migrants in their home country which will help to reduce the need of them risking their lives.
Nevertheless, our country is governed by a rule of law and there is a process in place that needs to be adhered too.
Based on the trajectory and the booming construction economy, I’m inclined to believe migration to TCI will not cease anytime soon.
It’s imperative that the powers to be have more engaging and compelling conversations along with the appropriate action around this issue.
The failure to control our borders, will continue to drastically change the conditions of labor supply and demand. In turn, it can have profound consequences especially on a small developing nation like TCI.
Ed Forbes
Bahamas News
Caribbean Wines & Spirits Displays Portfolio Evolution and Innovation with a Spectacular Showcase
Nassau, BAHAMAS — Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wines and spirits distributor hosted a spectacular showcase to celebrate the evolution of its portfolio while highlighting their innovative products.
The event was held at The Bahamas National Trust’s Retreat Garden as an opportunity to educate customers on how the company has
grown its product listing since 2020.
Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Commercial Officer of Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, and sister company to CWS shared her thoughts during the event.
“CWS was birthed with the goal of offering Bahamians premium wines and spirits. Over the years we have grown to be an alcohol beverage provider known for our quality products and excellent service. As we grow each year striving to continuously satisfy our clients and consumers, we are proud at the expansion of our portfolio.”
The showcase was a testament to CWS’s steady growth and strategic planning. The company that started with only one brand, House of Angostura and 14 Stock Keeping Units (SKU) has now grown to over 40 brands and 350 SKUs.
Waylon McHardy, General Manager for Caribbean Wines & Spirits shared what inspired the tradeshow that took place in “grand style”.
“We decided to celebrate our growth by showcasing our evolution along with the incredible products offered in our portfolio. As a team
we’re elated by the expansion of our portfolio, appreciative of our loyal customers and proud of our Team Members across the organization who continue to embrace a customer-centric mindset, which also calls for celebration.” McHardy expressed.
The event categorized its wines and spirits into two sections, the ‘Americas’ and ‘Europe’. Each product had a brand ambassador at their respective stations offering consumers a better understanding of the product’s origins and taste.
While CWS is known for providing quality products, a few key brands wowed guests that night. Fan-favorites were: ABK6 Cognac, Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum Cream, El Tequileno, Caposaldo Moscato and Fonseca Bin No. 27 Port.
Another highlight of the night was the introduction of two new products in CWS’ inventory; El Tequileno an award-winning tequila and ABK6 a single estate cognac.
McHardy revealed that tequila is the fastest-growing category in the beverage industry globally. Aiming to always compete and provide a
variety of products, CWS secured El Tequileno, a multi–International Spirits Challenge (ISC) and Spirits Business Awards winner for tequila; which can now be purchased and enjoyed locally.
Cognac, a highly popular spirit within the country presented a gap in CWS’ portfolio, which was filled with the introduction of ABK6. This “innovative” product, made with diligence and integrity in each step makes for a delightful taste on the pallet.
Guests savored a variety of hand-crafted cocktails at the El Tequileno Tequila and Nemiroff Vodka stations which heightened their taste buds.
The night was a celebratory affair without a doubt, however McHardy shared the overall goal of the event.
“We want customers to leave feeling valued and appreciated with a deeper understanding of our organization’s mission, which is to serve as a business partner for our customers while seeking to meet the needs of our consumers.” McHardy disclosed.
As the year progresses, consumers can enjoy products at the company’s growing monthly Block Parties and samplings. Also be on the
lookout for a fun summer calendar that will include multiple islands in The Bahamas.
To keep up to date on exciting events and new products visit CWS’ website at www.cwsbahamas.com and follow-on social media at @caribbeanwinesandspirits.
– Says Venezuela’s provocations being monitored at the highest levels
– Slams AFC’s latest attempt to undermine national solidarity
Vice President and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo, has assured the Guyanese populace that any act of physical aggression by Venezuela will be met with the appropriate response.
He was at the time responding to questions fielded by media representatives at his press conference on Thursday (March 20, 2025) at Freedom House Georgetown.
Dr Jagdeo told reporters that the matter is being looked at the highest levels of government, including receiving daily attention from
Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Irfaan Ali and its international allies. “Those matters relating to the Venezuelan aggression against our country and their threat to our territorial integrity and sovereignty are receiving the attention of the entire government the highest level, at the presidential level, on a daily basis….and we’re working with a number of partners around the world to ensure that any Venezuelan aggression that manifests itself in a physical form would be dealt with appropriately,” he said.
Most recently, the foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) nations issued a joint statement on March 14, 2025 in support of Guyana – reiterating their call for the restoration of democracy in Venezuela and condemning actions by President Nicolás Maduro’s government that they say undermine democratic principles and regional stability. The foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the High Representative of the European Union underscored concerns over Venezuela’s internal political situation and they strongly condemned recent actions by Venezuelan naval vessels, which they described as threats to Guyana’s commercial operations. The ministers underscored their commitment to upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, reaffirming these principles as essential to maintaining international order and regional peace. “We reaffirmed respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations as an enduring value,” the officials said.
DIVISIVE STATEMENTS
Meanwhile, the recent Alliance for Change (AFC) statement, in which they said that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government “has proven time and time again that it has no stomach for a fight with Venezuela and instead chooses gimmickry and falsehoods to hide the reality from the Guyanese people,” has drawn sharp criticism from Dr Jagdeo.
He pointed out that such assertions can be viewed as divisive, potentially undermining the unified stance that Guyana has traditionally upheld in the ongoing border controversy.
Dr Jagdeo reminded that Guyana has historically maintained a bipartisan and unified front on this matter, considering it is a sacred issue of national sovereignty.
To this end, he commended Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton’s move to respond in a measured manner, during a recent news conference where he addressed questions from the media relating to his discussion with President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on the border controversy. “I saw someone who understood that sometimes you can’t conduct diplomacy in public, particularly on a sensitive matter like the border issue. It was a very mature position … but you can’t say the same for these lowlifes in the AFC. They will, for anything …destroy the solidarity we have,” he expressed
PLANNED ELECTIONS
Notably, Venezuela has announced that it will soon hold elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region.
When asked about intelligence regarding a Guyanese being appointed governor in the disputed region, the general secretary dismisses it as mere reports from Venezuela, emphasising that Guyana has authority over its own territory. Jagdeo said, “They can call him governor, king, viceroy, monarch, whatever they want to call their people but not in our Essequibo,” he stressed, reminding that any Guyanese who accepts to become governor is a treasonous act.
Jagdeo added, “…these antics by the Venezuelan government… you have to treat it seriously and that is why we took it to the ICJ. We approached the ICJ on the matter of their elections [and] our partners are fully briefed etc. …and Robeson Benn already made it clear – it’s a treason act. Any Guyanese who allows himself to be appointed Governor of Essequibo that includes our territory…it’s a treasonous act.”
Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has since filed a new case at the ICJ, seeking emergency measures to halt Venezuela’s plans to hold an election in Essequibo.
The ICJ is expected to address new requests for provisional measures, given Venezuela’s announcement that it will soon hold elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region. Guyana has argued to the ICJ that the conduct of Venezuelan elections, which are scheduled for 25 May 2025, as well as all preparatory acts in the disputed territory leading to the holding of such elections, would violate “Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence, as well as the Court’s Order [on the indication of provisional measures] of 1 December 2023”.
INCURSION INTO GUYANA’S WATERS
Venezuela’s recent aggressions occurred on March 1, 2025, around 07:00 hours when Venezuelan Naval Vessel ABV Guaiqueiri sailed approximately 700 metres in Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), near FPSO PROSPERITY.
The Venezuelan naval vessel communicated threateningly via radio communication that FPSO PROSPERITY was operating in Venezuela’s EEZ before continuing in a Southwestern direction towards other FPSOs, to which it delivered the same message.
The incursion drew swift condemnation from the Guyanese government, CARICOM, the Organization of American States (OAS), the Commonwealth, and key Western nations, including the US, the UK, and France.
ICJ PROCESS
On 29 March 2018, Guyana filed an Application instituting proceedings against Venezuela with respect to a dispute concerning “the legal validity and binding effect of the Award regarding the Boundary between the Colony of British Guiana and the United States of Venezuela, of 3 October 1899”.
As basis for the jurisdiction of the Court, the Applicant invokes Article IV, paragraph 2, of the “Agreement to Resolve the Controversy between Venezuela and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland over the Frontier between Venezuela and British Guiana”, signed at Geneva on 17 February 1966, and the decision of 30 January 2018 by which the Secretary-General of the United Nations, in accordance with that Agreement, chose the Court as the means to be used for the settlement of the controversy.
On 18 June 2018, Venezuela informed the Court that it considered that the Court manifestly lacked jurisdiction to hear the case and that it had decided not to take part in the proceedings. The Court then decided to address first the question of its jurisdiction.
In its Judgment delivered on 18 December 2020, the Court found that it had jurisdiction to entertain the Application filed by Guyana in so far as it concerned the validity of the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 and the related question of the definitive settlement of the land boundary dispute between Guyana and Venezuela.
Further to the filing of preliminary objections by Venezuela on 7 June 2022, the Court, in its Judgment of 6 April 2023, rejected Venezuela’s preliminary objection concerning the exercise of the Court’s jurisdiction and found that it could adjudicate upon the merits of Guyana’s claims, in so far as they fall within the scope of the Court’s jurisdiction as defined in the operative clause of its Judgment of 18 December 2020.
On 30 October 2023, Guyana filed a Request for the indication of provisional measures due to its concern over the Government of Venezuela’s stated intention to hold a so-called “Consultative Referendum” on 3 December 2023 regarding the purported creation of the State of “Guayana Esequiba” within Venezuela, comprising the territory at issue in the current proceedings.
In its Order of 1 December 2023, the Court stated that, in light of the strong tension that characterized the relations between the Parties, it considered that the conduct of Venezuela — in organizing such a referendum and asserting that it would take concrete action on the basis of the results of that referendum — presented a serious risk of Venezuela acquiring and exercising control and administration of the territory in dispute. The Court therefore directed Venezuela to refrain from taking any action, pending a final decision in the case, which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby Guyana administers and exercises control over that area.
The Court further instructed both Parties to refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute or make it more difficult to resolve.
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