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The Ministry of Immigration and Border Services Introduces a New Era in Border Security with the Launch of Border Force

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#TurksandCaicos, November 11, 2023 – The Ministry of Immigration and Border Services takes a bold step forward in enhancing border security with the launch of the first phase of Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force. Border Force will see the transformation of our legacy Customs Department, Immigration Department, and Work Permit Unit, with all areas brought together to form one dynamic, responsive and flexible approach to managing TCI’s border protection. The threats to our borders have grown significantly in recent years – and we’re transforming the way we operate to put us in a better position to be able to respond to those who attempt to break our rules and to deliver an enhanced service to our law-abiding, valued visitors and residents.

Leading the charge is the newly appointed Director General, Emilio Seymour, who will oversee the suite of changes being made over the next six months, and beyond. An evidence-based, redesigned structure will allow better targeting and flexing of resources, alongside a clear focus on customer service delivery, with three main operational areas; inland operations, port operations and a separate ‘services’ function – all underpinned and supported by a new Intelligence Unit.

Our future Border Force delivers border protection services, and enforces our laws, across four of our Islands, so the new organisation will roll out in phases.

Phase 1: 30th October 2023

Phase 1 of Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force officially launched on 30th October 2023, integrating Customs and Immigration operations at airports and seaports into one team. This development is a culmination of significant investments in restructuring, process changes, rebranding and upskilling of officers at airports and seaports in Providenciales over the past year.

Changes by Phase 1 already include:

The transition of formerly separate immigration and customs teams into one border security operation at our ports of entry – one structure, simplified for staff and travellers;

A clear vision to safeguard our borders and our nation’s prosperity, supported by six key values – professionalism, service excellence, integrity, accountability, empowerment and leadership;

Intelligence-led operations, with streamlined processes, building on the existing frictionless customs experience and using data and detection techniques to target our effort;

New, security- and customer-focused operational guidance for all staff working at the border, providing a supportive framework for accountable decision-making;

New, unified branding; designed by our staff to help maintain pride in our operations and the services we deliver to the public;

Enhancing our criminal investigations through partnership working; working with US and Canadian colleagues, based in-country, undertaking together painstaking investigations to prepare cases to bring those suspected of organised immigration criminality before the court and securing their conviction.

Launch Ceremony Highlights

The official launch of Phase 1 was marked with a prestigious opening ceremony on 30th October 2023 at the Howard Hamilton International Airport. Attending this momentous occasion were distinguished guests, including Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Honourable C. Washington Misick; Premier, Her Excellency Anya Williams; Deputy Governor, Members of Parliament and Permanent Secretaries from various ministries within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, along with other key stakeholders.

Commenting on the launch of Border Force Hon. Arlington Musgrove stated “As we launch Border Force in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we take a monumental step towards enhancing the security and efficiency of our ports of entry. This transformation signifies our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our borders, protecting our people, and ensuring a seamless experience for our visitors and residents. The dedication and professionalism of our Border Force Officers are at the core of this transition and their adaptability is a testament to the spirit of service that defines our islands.”

What to Expect in Phase 2: From 2024

Phase 2, scheduled to come online in 2024, will see the launch of all other units of Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force. As this transition progresses, the inland element of our Border Force will be brought to life, delivering all customs and immigration enforcement, alongside the establishment of one combined services function. This new function will strive for a new approach to customer service, bringing the consideration and delivery of all applications in one place to allow us to more easily monitor response times and better flex to demands.

Later in 2024, Border Force plans to introduce digital borders, including automation for low-risk travellers, biometrics to drive security and, for the first time, one end-to-end system containing the details of all known non-citizens in our Islands, further solidifying our commitment to leveraging intelligence and technology for the benefit of our nation’s security.

Our transformation into a Border Force demonstrates our forward-looking and responsive dedication to protecting the integrity of our borders, and the Government’s commitment and support to border security. We are excited to embark on this journey and look forward to the positive impact Border Force will have on our community, economy, and the overall well-being of our beloved islands. Together, we stand united in our mission to preserve the natural beauty and harmony of the Turks and Caicos Islands for generations to come.

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TCI Border Force Hosts Border Security Training for Overseas Territories

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Turks and Caicos, February 12, 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force recently concluded a series of critical training exercises focused on container targeting, search procedures, and firearms awareness. This initiative, a vital investment in regional security, saw TCI Border Force officers joined by colleagues from the Anguilla Customs Department, BVI Customs Department, and Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control.

The training, conducted from 21st to 31st January, was facilitated by a team from Home Office International Operations through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Border Security Programme and organised via the Integrated Security Funding Overseas Territories Border Security Programme. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the UK government and participating agencies to combat transnational crime and the flow of illicit goods within the Overseas Territories.

The curriculum encompassed three courses. The first, Fundamentals of Container Targeting (21st-24th January), focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of current priorities and container targeting capabilities, risk analysis within container traffic, and practical exercises utilising intelligence flows. The second, Search of Containers, saw participants receive specialised training on current threats facing the shipping industry and best practices for container search procedures. Finally, a crucial course on Firearms Awareness provided instruction on various types of firearms and the identification of firearm parts, equipping officers with the knowledge necessary to interdict illegal weapons.

These training exercises represent a significant step forward in strengthening the TCI Border Force’s ability to facilitate trade while protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enhanced targeting and search capabilities will lead to more effective screening of cargo and potentially shorter processing times for legitimate shipments. Greater security will also be evident as the increased focus on firearms awareness will contribute to a safer environment.

“This training is a crucial investment in the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Emilio Seymour; Director General of TCI Border Force. “By working collaboratively with our regional partners and leveraging the expertise of the Home Office, we are significantly improving our ability to detect and deter criminal activity. The enhanced skills acquired by our officers will have a direct and positive impact on our community, protecting our economy and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

The TCI Border Force remains committed to protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This training initiative represents a significant investment in that commitment.

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Solar PV Projects Completed at Critical Turks and Caicos Islands Healthcare Facilities

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Grand Turk Wellness Center

PRESS RELEASE

 

FROM THE Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities

South Caicos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11th February 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future with the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at key healthcare facilities across the archipelago.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) and implemented by Expertise France, aims to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs for the TCI Government, and contribute to long-term economic viability.

North Caicos

The solar PV systems have been strategically installed at critical medical facilities, including the Blue Hills Clinic in Providenciales, the Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos, the Alsada Hall-Malcolm Primary Healthcare Clinic in Middle Caicos, the South Caicos Primary Health Clinic, and the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. These healthcare centers provide essential services to local communities, and the integration of solar energy demonstrates TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency within vital public sectors.

Leading this transformative initiative is the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities (MPSU). The EUD has overseen the installation and integration of these solar PV systems within the local energy landscape, leveraging the islands’ abundant sunshine which averages approximately 350 sunny days per year — an ideal setting for solar energy generation. These systems, equipped with advanced battery storage solutions, will significantly reduce electricity costs for healthcare facilities while ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages or energy supply challenges.

Middle Caicos

EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The solar PV systems will greatly reduce electricity costs and symbolize our shift toward a sustainable energy future. This investment not only strengthens energy security, but reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and environmental impact.”

The collaboration between the European Union, Expertise France, and local government agencies ensures that the project aligns with international renewable energy standards, benefiting both the environment and the community. Installation was successfully carried out by Green Revolution Ltd., a local company committed to advancing sustainable development in TCI. Their involvement highlights the importance of local expertise and community engagement in executing renewable energy initiatives.

Blue Hills

For further information, please contact:

Energy and Utilities Department (EUD)
Email: eud@gov.tc

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SHARK INCIDENT, BLUE HILLS

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12 February 2025, Providenciales – On Friday 7 February a tourist was injured by a shark in the waters adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales.

The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.

Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.

The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed.

Further to the investigation, it has been determined that the tourist had attempted to engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs.

The DECR would like to urge the public to always  be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances

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