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
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – May 14th, 2024 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Government and Molo Hotel Group reached a pivotal juncture on Monday, May 13th, 2024, with the ceremonial signing of a development agreement at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales. The agreement, which received official Cabinet approval on March 13th, 2024, signifies a steadfast commitment to advancing the economic landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Molo Hotel Group is a family-owned business, renowned for its distinguished portfolio of high-quality hotels worldwide. The
development initiative encompasses the construction of three distinct IHG branded hotels: InterContinental Turks and Caicos, Kimpton Turks and Caicos and Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos. Scheduled for completion by 2027, each resort boasts a distinctive design from luxury to laidback sophistication spanning across the shores of Grace Bay Beach.
Kimpton Turks and Caicos – an epitome of luxury lifestyle living, will feature 192 guest rooms including three outdoor pools, a luxury spa and a fitness center. Additionally, seven dining options ranging from a beachfront restaurant to a rooftop bar.
Adjacent to the Kimpton, InterContinental Turks and Caicos will offer 59 classic luxury suites with panoramic ocean views. Mirroring its counterpart, this resort will offer an array of dining options and upscale facilities.
Steps away from the Intercontinental and Kimpton resorts, Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos will embrace a sense of community and contemporary elegance, offering 56 bedrooms. The resort will feature an onsite restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor pool, and fitness room.
Beyond the realm of hospitality, this development agreement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing employment opportunities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Molo is partnering with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) to actively promote hospitality as a career choice and support in developing training programs, career fairs, seminars, workshops, and events to raise awareness about hospitality careers. Molo has committed to provide employment and apprentice opportunities to TCICC students and provide mentoring and practical on property training to students.
The signing event was graced by Hon. Charles Washington Missick, Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Łukasz and Marcin Slominski, Owners of Molo, Ross Morrow, Managing Director Molo, Arik Kono, Vice President Upscale Development for IHG, Dr. Candice Williams, President and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Angela Musgrove, InvestTCI CEO, Dr. Barbara Ambrister, Chairperson of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Dr. Delores Stapleton- Harris, Vice President of Academic, Vocational and Student Affairs for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Mr. Kevin Baxter, Dean of Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Sheryl McLaughlin, InvestTCI Investment Services Executive.
Commenting on the development agreement, Premier, Hon. Misick, stated “The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing of
IHG/Molo Hotels is a significant step towards a sustainable future for hospitality in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Three hotels, Kimpton, Intercontinental, and Hotel Indigo, will be introduced, enhancing our tourism product and creating employment opportunities.”
He further added, “Partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission are underway, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to developing human capital and elevating tourism offerings. This project will bring economic growth, embrace local talent, and enrich our economy.”
Additionally, Mrs. Angela Musgrove, CEO of Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, emphasized “This collaboration confirms our commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity within our country. We have worked closely with Molo Hotel Group, and we are confident that this transformative project will further position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier destination for travel and investment. Much to our delight, it will also provide opportunities for engagement with our Community College and small business community.”
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands, operating through its primary Investment Promotion
Agency, Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, remains committed to attracting and facilitating Foreign Direct Investments to the country by providing a comprehensive suite of services. Through strategic initiatives and targeted promotion, the agency catalyzes sustainable development, driving innovation and small business opportunities across various sectors of the economy.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – Detectives of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force have
charged a man who allegedly stole a vehicle.
The accused, DANVANTE BRISCO, 30, of Kew Town, Providenciales, was charged with:
- One Count: Robbery
- One Count: Taking Motor Vehicle Without Authority
- One Count: Using Offensive Weapon to cause fear
Mr. BRISCO appeared in court today (May 13 ) and was granted bail of $7500.00 with one surety.
The matter was adjourned to July 05 for a Sufficiency Hearing.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – A 20-year-old Dock Yard male appeared in court today (May 13th) charged with a series of firearm-related offences.
The accused, JAMES SIMON, was denied bail and remanded into custody pending a Sufficiency Hearing scheduled for July 05th, 2024.
Mr. SIMON faces the following charges:
- One Count: Robbery;
- One Count: Gang Membership
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm for the Benefit of a Gang
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition for the Benefit of a Gang.
The charges against Mr. Simon followed investigations by officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force into a robbery at the parking lot of a Casino where three males robbed a victim.
Additionally, Mr. Simon is charged with the following offences, having been arrested on May 02nd, 2024, along South Dock Road.
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition
- One Count: Unlawful Entry
Officers also charged a teenage minor who was in the company of Mr. Simon on May 02nd with One Count of UNLAWFUL ENTRY.
The accused, seventeen and from Kew Town, Providenciales, pleaded guilty and will be sentenced on May 20th.
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