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International Volunteer Day 2023 “The Power of collective action:  if everyone did”

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#TurksandCaicos, December 5, 2023 – The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) proudly participates in the global celebration of International Volunteer Day (IVD) on December 5; a significant date established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of volunteerism, uniting diverse cultures, languages, and purpose.

Embracing this year’s theme, “If everyone did…”, The DDME, with a sense of pride, acknowledges and recognizes the remarkable contributions of our local volunteers in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Their collective actions create a unified front of solidarity to the cause of assisting humanity, and playing a vital role in steering us towards a future that is sustainable and harmonious. Their steadfast commitment and service, particularly in challenging times, are pivotal to our community’s strength and emergency response.

In highlighting the value of the dedicated volunteers this year, DDME organized various celebratory events across the islands to honour the selfless contributions of our volunteers.

In the Twin Islands of North Caicos and Middle Caicos, the Team DDME and volunteers joined forces with the District Commissioner, Department of Social Development, TCI Red Cross and the TCI Regiment, in an Appreciative Hamper Distribution to the elderly and vulnerable on Wednesday, November 23rd.  Volunteers in South Caicos were treated to an evening filled with fun and games and received special gifts courtesy of DDME on Tuesday, November 28th. In Providenciales, a special Appreciation and Award Ceremony was held in recognition of the selfless service of Volunteers on Thursday, November 30th.

The team was honoured to have the presence of Honourable Minister Jamell Robinson, Minister with responsibility for DDME and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Tito Lightbourne among the special guests.  In his remarks, Hon. Robinson emphasized that Volunteerism is the cornerstone of any modern society and offered heartfelt thanks to our volunteers for their invaluable contributions and sacrificial service. DDME’s Director, Ms. Allison Gordon also commended the volunteers for their dedication and commitment and encouraged other interested individuals to sign up to become a proud DDME Volunteer. The keynote speaker for the event was Mrs. Dorothy Clarke, Former DDME Deputy Director who encouraged the DDME to include the youth in Disaster Management.  Her remarks clearly supported the Disaster Risk Reduction Clubs in Schools initiative of the DDME.  We look forward to the upcoming Volunteer Activities in Grand Turk and Salt Cay on December 11, 2023.

This year’s theme:  “The Power of Collective action:  if everyone did”, is a call for everyone to get involved and make a difference.

The DDME welcomes new volunteers.  Application procedures are available at the DDME Offices in Providenciales and Grand Turk, DDME’s Community Preparedness Officers on the islands of South Caicos and North Caicos and also at the District Commissioners Offices in Salt Cay, South Caicos, North Caicos and Middle Caicos or at www.gov.tc/ddme/volunteer.

Together, let us embrace the power of volunteerism recognizing the power of collective action:  if everyone did. We Encourage You To Volunteer Today.

Here are the photo Highlights of this year’s completed volunteer celebrations:

 Providenciales:  Volunteers Appreciation and Awards, Thursday, November 30

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Police Commissioner Honoured with Distinguished Civic Service Award at TCHTA Star Awards

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.

Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.

In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.

The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.

This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.

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New Chartered Accountant Member Appointed to The Integrity Commission

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Darius E. Ferguson, Member of the Integrity Commission Board

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Darius E. Ferguson as a Member of the Integrity Commission Board, serving as the Chartered Accountant Member in accordance with Section 3(2)(a) of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. His appointment is for a period of three (3) years and follows consultation with the President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Society of Professional Accountants.

Mr. Ferguson, with family ties to Providenciales and South Caicos, is a Chartered Accountant with over twenty years of senior leadership experience across aviation, finance, technology and consultancy, he brings a strong and diverse background in financial governance, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

A former Chief Financial Officer of Sky Bahamas Airlines for a decade, Mr. Ferguson managed all financial reporting, regulatory engagement, capital projects and commercial development initiatives. He previously served in senior audit roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, leading high‑risk audit engagements and ensuring adherence to international financial and accounting standards.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ferguson has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional ethics, community leadership and organisational accountability. His experience across corporate governance, financial oversight, and operational risk management will bring valuable strategic insight to the Integrity Commission.

Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointment, stating:

“Mr. Ferguson’s extensive background in financial management, auditing and governance, together with his leadership experience across both corporate and community sectors, make him well‑suited to serve on the Integrity Commission. His appointment strengthens our ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. I am confident that he will make a meaningful contribution to the Commission’s important work.”

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Multi-Agency Planning Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Block and Parcel 60503/17 in the Five Cays area.

The exercise was led by the Planning Department, pursuant to its statutory authority under the Physical Planning Act to address unauthorised development. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Crown Land Unit and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.

The enforcement action formed part of a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and private landowners. The registered owners of the land would have sought the state’s assistance to issue copies of Section 58 Enforcement Notices on unlawful structures identified on the parcel. The subject parcel comprises approximately 25 acres extending across Millennium Highway.

During the exercise, a total of fifty-four (54) copies of the Enforcement Notice were issued on structures located on the parcel. Notices were affixed to structures and served on persons found to be occupying illegal developments.

The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold planning regulations, protect property rights, and promote orderly and lawful development. Persons undertaking construction are reminded that development without the requisite planning approvals is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.

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