News
$485 Million Budget for TCI; Figures Revealed for 2024-2025
Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
#TurksandCaicos, April 19, 2024 – The PNP Administration is using their final budgetary allocation, an all-time high of $485 million to do ‘More in ‘24 ’ according to Washington Misick, TCI Premier and Finance Minister, when he opened the 2024/25 budget debates on April 16.
A people-focused budget is what Misick says the PNP has created for residents with tackling cost of living as its ‘number one priority.’Citing the expanding economy with rates over 12 percent and the possibility of a revised A Economy rating he said:
”The one thing that keeps me up at night is the constant quest for ways to help our people, especially those in the middle-income
bracket and those below the poverty line. Our macroeconomic success must translate to human and social development. It must mean well organized and functioning communities where modern amenities are available and it must mean a better life for all.”
The Premier cited this determination as the reason for denying the recent FortisTCI application for an electricity rate increase and lowered fuel taxes.
In the Construction realm, Misick maintained the government was leveraging its power to deliver for residents as well while criticizing the PDM for allowing wealthy contractors to slide without paying maximum taxes
“Everywhere you turn there’s a new building going up— because of the splitting of purchase contracts for land and construction by foreign wealthy individuals, which the former administration supported, the government is earning less from stamp duty but I promise that will change,” The. Premier said
Misick revealed that the PNP had removed tax holidays, allowing more money to flow into the country from large developments.
Misick doubled down on his administration’s commitment to social welfare programs highlighting the over $6 million increase in welfare since the start of their tenure. For retirees, a 20 percent increase has been granted and the pension fund now has $21 million as of March 31, 2024.
”Fairness to us is supporting people out of poverty not trapping them in a cycle of dependence,” he maintained.
In terms of figures many remained unchanged from the draft budget tabled two weeks earlier. Revenue remained at $452 million while expenditure went up to $389 million.
The GDP of the country grew by 13.7 percent in 2023 and is projected to grow by 4 percent in 2024, and the TCI is now listed as a ‘positive’ economy up from a ‘stable’ rating.
TCIG only managed to spend 29 million out of the 57 million that was budgeted for capital projects which the premier blamed on the drawn-out procurement process, outdated laws, and insufficient resources. He maintained that the government is spending 300,000 in this financial year to review the procurement process. Optimistically TCIG again budgeted $63 million for capital projects this year.
The $485 million budget for 2024/25 was split into 10 main parts.
- $117.4 million – Public Service (Offices of Governor, House of Assembly, Ministries etc.)
- $ 90.5 million – Health
- $86.5 million – Economic Affairs (Environmental and Coastal Resources, Media, Energy and Utilities, Infrastructure Development including land acquisition, Tourism Product Enhancement, Agriculture, and Catastrophic Risk Insurance)
- $71.6 million – Public Order and Safety ( $39.0 million will go towards Police Services, $20.9 million to the Judiciary, $19.2 million for Customs and Border Protection, Immigration, and Repatriations, $7.7 million for Prisons, and $1.5 million has been allocated for Fire and Rescue.)
- $58.7 million – Education (Special Needs, Community College, Primary, Secondary and Daycare)
- $27.0 million – Social Protection
- $18.8 million – Estate Management, Housing and Community Amenities
- $9.6 million Defense (National Security Secretariat, Military, Disaster Management)
- $3.1 million – Environmental Protection
- $1.3 million – Culture
The Premier also broke down a list of priority initiatives encapsulated in the allocation, they included:
- $157.3 million for staff costs, around $30.7 million compared to the previous year.
- $6 million for the Community Enhancement Projects/Works Programme across all islands.
- $3.7 million for the Border Force
- $3.5 million for the pay and grading exercise of statutory bodies.
- $3.1 million for the Senior Citizens’ Financial Assistance Programme.
- $1.5 million was added to Social Welfare allocations for a total of $10.1 million.
- $1.4 million to cover an increase of 20 percent for pensioners and former legislators.
- $900,000 for MSME Investment, which includes funding for training programs, technical assistance, and opportunities for business development.
- $ 300,000 for the Prison Reforms and the Juvenile Intervention and Diversionary Programme to review the prison resourcing model within the Department of Correctional Services.
- $ 800,000 for additional staff enhancement of the growth and capability of the TCI Regiment to strengthen the islands’ security against illicit activities.
As for how the Turks and Caicos will afford all of this, revenue is expected to be $465 million leaving the country in a deficit of $19 million. Misick admitted, though, that it was unlikely that the deficit would come to fruition.
The top ten earners are expected to be:
- $119.6 million – Accommodation Tax
- $112.5 million – Import Duties
- $54.2 million – Other Receipts
- $50 million – Stamp Duty on Land Transactions
- $42.9 million – Work Permit
- $38.8million – Other Customs Duties
- $11 million – Excess Revenue from Ports and Sea Travel Taxes –
- $10.9million – Fuel Tax
- $7.9 million – Vehicles and Driver’s License Fees
- $7.3 million – Business and Banking Related Receipts
Misick maintained that the PNP is delivering for the people, and the budget would provide ‘More in ‘24’, he said:
”If you recall, when we came to office in 2021, I made it clear that this is “The People’s Term” We have never wavered from that commitment. We have used the People’s Contract as our guidepost to ensure that we deliver on the promise—Our budget is designed to give our people opportunities and change their lives for the better.”
Head to bed in a bra to reduce breast pain, nipple irritation and stretch marks
When you think about sleeping in a bra, “comfort” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind — it may not even make the Top 10. But is it bad to sleep with a bra on?
Breast surgical oncologist Margaret Thompson, MD, explains the upsides and downsides of wearing a bra while you snooze.
Should you sleep in a bra?
Several factors may affect your decision to wear a bra to bed, but Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the risk of breast cancer should not be one of them.
“There’s no evidence that wearing a bra while sleeping increases your risk for breast cancer,” she states. “It really comes down to comfort and personal preference.”
But there are also other health issues to consider. Dr. Thompson lays out the pros and cons of sleeping in a bra.
Pros: Why sleeping in a bra might be good for you
Should you wear a bra to bed? There are some benefits, especially if you’re recovering from surgery or breastfeeding.
Lessens breast pain
Having the support of a bra day and night may help relieve breast pain (mastalgia). That’s good news, because up to 70% of women in the United States deal with it at some point in their lives.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes, which often occur as part of your menstrual cycle
- Locally advanced breast cancer, including inflammatory breast cancer
- Lactation (producing milk), which may cause your breasts to ache
- Large breasts, which may strain breast ligaments and tissue
- Recent surgery related to your heart or breasts
- Underwires, especially if your bras are too tight
“When somebody reports breast pain, one of the first things we ask is whether they wear an underwire bra,” shares Dr. Thompson. “It can dig into your skin or breast tissue, leaving you sore and tender.”
A soft sleep bra can keep your breasts from shifting and causing discomfort while you snooze.
Protects lactating breasts
If you’re breastfeeding, you know all too well that your mammary glands don’t care if you’re trying to rest. Swollen or full breasts can be painful, especially as you move during sleep or change positions. Wearing a clean and supportive bra while sleeping:
- Holds nursing pads in place
- Keeps nipples dry and free from bacteria
- Reduces nipple chafing
- Supports the structure of your breasts
Make sure your sleep bra is supportive, but not too tight. Wearing a bra that’s too tight while breastfeeding can lower your milk production and possibly lead to clogged milk ducts and mastitis — inflammation of the breast tissue.
Prevents fungal infections
Everyone loves to be warm and cozy in bed. But do you know what else loves a warm environment? Fungus.
“There’s a lot of skin-on-skin contact underneath your breasts, especially if you have larger breasts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “If you’re also
covered in blankets and sweating, it becomes a perfect environment for fungal or yeast infections.”
Wearing a bra to bed helps absorb moisture beneath your breasts and reduce friction. A camisole with a built-in shelf bra can also help.
Reduces nipple irritation
Friction is a common reason for nipple pain — ask any avid runner. You may not be running a marathon in your sleep, but your nipples can still get sore from rubbing against:
- Tight shirts, especially if they’re textured or have a graphic design that can be felt inside the shirt
- The fabric of your pajama top or sheets
- A sleep bra that’s too loose
Wearing a sleep bra can limit movement, easing nipple irritation.
Helps with recovery after surgery
It’s important to keep your breasts compressed after certain surgeries involving your chest. Restricting breast movement helps protect stitches and incisions. The added compression can also:
- Decrease fluid collection
- Minimize pain
- Hold gauze and drains in place
“Most cardiac and breast surgeons want you to wear a bra for some time after surgery, even while sleeping,” emphasizes Dr. Thompson. “Always follow their advice.”
Diminishes stretch marks
Stretch marks on breasts are common, especially if your breasts change size during pregnancy. Bras support your skin’s structure, which helps prevent stretch marks.
“There’s no proof that wearing a bra at any time of day will decrease breast sagginess,” Dr. Thompson clarifies. “But it may help decrease stretch marks.”
Cons: Why it’s bad to sleep with a bra on
Looking for a reason to sleep without strapping on a bra? Dr. Thompson points out a few potential disadvantages of sleeping in a bra.
Causes skin irritation and infection
A sleep bra can protect your skin from irritation and infection. But it can also cause those issues if it has an underwire or it’s:
- Dirty
- Too tight
- Too loose
Restricts circulation
“Bras that are too tight or contain underwires may cause you to wake up with some discomfort,” reiterates Dr. Thompson. “They can restrict your circulation while you sleep.”
Nobody wants to wake up to find that their bra left angry red indents in its wake. That’s why selection is key.
Tips for wearing a bra to bed
If you decide to sleep in a bra, choose one that’s comfortable and fits well — not too tight, not too loose. And be sure to replace your bras every six to 12 months, or whenever your breast size changes. Measure yourself or ask the fitter at your lingerie store or undergarments department for help finding the right size.
For the best experience with your sleep bra, Dr. Thompson recommends that you:
- Choose a gentle fabric. Avoid lace or scratchy fabrics that may be rough on your nipples. Choose a natural material like cotton or something silky and soft.
- Consider a shelf bra. Some camisoles and tank tops have a built-in shelf bra that may help you feel supported while sleeping.
- Skip the underwire. Underwire can restrict circulation and cause pain while you sleep.
- Wear a clean bra. Don’t wear a bra you’ve worn all day, and wash your sleep bras regularly — after every two or three wears.
Bottom line? If you choose to sleep in a bra, you want one that’s supportive and comfortable. If it interferes with your sleep, it’s not the right fit.
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
by Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
PROVIDENCIALES, TCI — In a country where government press conferences are virtually non-existent, ministers are often difficult for
journalists to access and regular broadcast television news has disappeared, TCI Innovation, Technology and Energy Minister E. Jay Saunders has challenged Caribbean media to become “impossible to ignore.”
Speaking at the Caribbean Broadcasting Union gathering, Saunders argued that the Caribbean does not have a relevance problem but a “discoverability and positioning problem.”
Discoverability is precisely the issue in Saunders’ home country. Even Government’s own attempts at video news broadcasting have struggled against the realities of consistently producing a daily, weekly or even monthly newscast.
The difficulties confronting TCI media extend well beyond algorithms: limited advertising revenue, underfunding, shortages of trained professionals and insufficient human capacity leave newsrooms struggling for both staff and stamina.
Then there is the reality of operating in one of the region’s smallest societies. Politicians, journalists, advertisers, businesses and the subjects of stories often exist within the same tight economic and social circles. A controversial report that might create a ripple elsewhere can produce a tsunami in TCI, intensifying concerns among journalists about commercial and professional victimisation.
Saunders believes AI can help.
He urged Caribbean media to use the technology to transform one original story into television, radio, web, podcast, social and translated content without multiplying newsroom workload.
He also wants regional journalism structured so AI systems can find, understand and trust Caribbean sources, moving media beyond traditional SEO into Answer Engine Optimisation.
His ultimate message was emphatic: “Use AI not to make Caribbean media more artificial — but to make Caribbean voices more visible.”
For Turks and Caicos media, however, becoming visible may require more than technology. It requires an environment in which journalism can survive.
That last sentence is where I think we land the plane. It acknowledges that EJ actually has some us
