News
What on earth is going on in the House of Assembly; Budget Debate shockingly UNEVENTFUL
Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
#TurksandCaicos, April 19th, 2024 – Tradition has been flipped on its head for the 2024/25 Budget Debate following a refusal by Government Ministers and the Opposition Leader to debate the spending sheet, and the public is left holding the short end of the stick.
Following a tradition of transparency mirrored across the globe in different governments, parliamentary front benchers usually speak directly to what funds allocated to their ministries will be used for, outline the benefits to the general public and even update on progresses over the preceding fiscal period but not so in the Turks and Caicos Islands this time around.
The National Budget and its breakdown in spending is the heart and head of the sitting administration and without it, nothing can be achieved and yet, there was on Wednesday April 17, one day after the official communication by the finance minister, total radio silence.
“[They] sat there in silence all day and refused to give an account of their ministries or constituencies to the electorate in the final budget debate after collecting hefty salaries for the last 3+ years,” said one angry resident responding to the unusual display.
The decision not to speak means the public has no idea how ministers plan to use the $485 million of the people’s money that they’ve been allotted this year.
Many are livid.
“Them PNP ministers didn’t report on their budgets because they ain’t do ***** for their constituents, so they don’t have ***** to report. Report card score is zero O,” ranted one individual.
Others were just as disappointed in Edwin Astwood, the Opposition Leader.
“It is shameful that the Leader of the Opposition didn’t come prepared to deliver his rebuttal to the Premier’s speech; and to make matters worse, he had the audacity to go on live interview during lunch and say he wasn’t prepared,” said one resident.
Astwood defended his decision to the public. 
“Instead of myself getting up and speaking right after the Premier and then you would have eight or nine persons speak after me, spinning a different story, I said, as the Leader of the Opposition I need to be able to address the Premier and all his ministers.”
That didn’t happen and the debate was shockingly wrapped up with only contributions from the Premier, in his capacity as finance minister, and the two Governor’s Appointed Members.
The entire fiasco was apparently brought down by the change in protocol, where Astwood, who usually speaks before the Ministers, asked to speak after them instead so that he could respond to them all in full. It’s a decision that was accepted by the Speaker and which Astwood says he informed the Ministers of as well.
“They were afraid of me speaking after them and they were saying ‘We’re gonna make sure you speak before us.’ I told them ‘If you don’t get up, I am not getting up.’ This is your Budget. You need to tell the people how you are spending their money in your current ministry,” he said.
Astwood accused them of ‘playing chicken’ while some Residents couldn’t comprehend the actions of either side. A choice to break with tradition and play tit for tat over respectfully seizing the opportunity to inform the Electorate what was to be done with public funds over the next 12 months.
“You mean to tell me that Seven (7) Ministers, Six (6) Elected Backbenchers, and 1 PNP Appointed Member were terrified to speak before the Leader of the Opposition because he would have torn their speeches apart???” asked a resident.
As the story evolves some residents applaud Astwood for standing his ground.
“The Leader of the Opposition did absolutely the right thing. His insistence that the Ministers should defend the budget was correct and he was right to “Break with Tradition,” to let them all speak and then Reply. It is a good move for democracy and accountability,” a TC resident explained
In response to the confusion and outrage, the government released the following statement late Tuesday.
“If there is no one willing to speak, a decision is made by the Speaker to advise members of his intention to close the debate. The mover is then asked to wrap up the debate on the motion. Today, this is what occurred in the House of Assembly.”
On Wednesday when we sought clarification on the matter Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development told us, “We will be in Committee as of 10 am today. Debate on the second reading of the bill is completed.”
When we asked why Robinson decided to forgo his speech he told us this, “What took place yesterday was very unfortunate as the Leader of the Opposition chose our 4th budget presentation to try and break a long-standing convention. As for residents, I have already begun distributing relevant information in relation to what is in store for Budget 2024/25 from an Infrastructure standpoint.”
No other official statements have come from the ministers regarding the decision though Magnetic Media has reached out to all of them.
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: Beaches Turks & Caicos recently transformed its French Village Lawn into a vibrant celebration as it hosted the highly anticipated “All That’s Good Road Show.” This dynamic team member engagement initiative, packed with high-energy entertainment, delicious food and drinks, exciting games and spirited sporting activities, was designed to celebrate and thank the resort’s invaluable team members.
The “All That’s Good Road Show” began its Caribbean tour in Antigua and has since made stops in Barbados, Saint Vincent and the
Grenadines, Curacao and the Bahamas. It was conceptualized by Jamie Green, Sandals Corporate Manager for Employee Experience, who had initial success with the road show across Jamaican resorts. With the impact from the experience in Jamaica and the enthusiastic support of Sandals Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, the event was expanded across the Caribbean, bringing its unique brand of celebration to all the resorts in the chain.
“This event is all about celebrating our team members and recognizing the outstanding work they consistently deliver,” explained Green. “We wanted to create a fun and exciting environment that fosters camaraderie, boosts morale and leaves everyone feeling inspired and appreciated.”
The Turks & Caicos leg of the Road Show was a true spectacle, headlined by international dancehall artiste Konshens, who was eagerly received by team members. Emcee Huntley ‘Super P’ Forbes II kept the energy levels soaring, while DJs Drex, Troy, and Keeli spun infectious tunes that had everyone on their feet. Jamie Green himself joined in the fun as an energetic emcee, further engaging the crowd and amplifying the already vibrant atmosphere.
“The All That’s Good Road Show for Beaches Turks & Caicos was more than just a party; it was a heartfelt expression of gratitude and a testament to the power of teamwork and dedication,” shared Beaches Human Resources Manager Owenta Colby.
With just over six hundred team members in attendance, the event was a resounding success.
“To be able to walk away with a 65inch smart TV is one of the most rewarding prizes that any team member could have asked for at this event,” said Maxine Salmon, Kids Camp supervisor. “I’ll be more comfortable watching TV at home with my family. This event really has been a top tier team member experience.”
“The entertainment package was a blast. The gifts and prizes were high value items for all team members to celebrate and benefit. Each gift
added a great sense of satisfaction. I received a high-powered pressure washer that will help me to keep my vehicle clean without having to go to the car wash. The event allowed team members to unwind and enjoy the day uninterrupted. We were treated like royalty,” added Tarquinio Robinson from the housekeeping department.
A significant highlight of the Road Show was the generous distribution of prizes. Team members walked away with an impressive array of gifts, ranging from essential household appliances to exciting regional vacation stays. Gift baskets overflowed with treats and lucky winners snagged smart televisions, I-phones and other coveted electronics.
The success of the “All That’s Good Road Show” was further amplified by the invaluable support of corporate sponsors and partners, including Flow, Got You Covered, Gilley’s Enterprises, Graceway Sports Center, IGA Supermarkets, Other People’s Affair, Java Island, Caribbean Cruising and Digicel. Their contributions added to the event’s pomp and flair, demonstrating a shared commitment to recognizing and rewarding the hard work of the Beaches Turks & Caicos team.
“The All That’s Good Road Show was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of appreciation and the importance of investing in the well-being of our dedicated team members,” said Beaches Turks and Caicos resort Managing Director James McAnally. “It’s a great reminder that when team members feel valued and inspired, they are empowered to continue delivering exceptional experiences that set Beaches Turks & Caicos apart. The Road Show left a ripple effect of positivity and renewed enthusiasm, ensuring that the spirit of teamwork and dedication will continue to thrive at this resort for years to come.”
News
From Classroom to Fine Dining: Clement Howell High Students Experience Etiquette Training at Beaches TCI
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: Beaches Turks & Caicos (BTC) recently offered nearly 40 students and educators from
Clement Howell High School a memorable lesson in fine dining and social etiquette as part of their Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) curriculum.
Held at the resort’s elegant Sapodillas Restaurant, the interactive session combined theory with real-world experience. The training emphasised the importance of table setting, polite dining practices and the value of social graces—skills designed to prepare students for both personal and professional spaces.
“This partnership enhances our students’ educational experience by helping them develop essential life skills,” said Tanisha Graham, guidance counsellor at Clement Howell High. “They were captivated by the ambience, the exceptional service and the chance to engage with professionals in a fine dining setting.”
The session was led by BTC’s team members from the learning & development, food & beverage and public relations departments. Together,
they highlighted how dining etiquette reflects respect, cultural awareness and confidence—important attributes for young adults preparing for future opportunities.
“As young adults, it’s important to understand the value of proper dining etiquette,” noted Claude Williams, food and beverage supervisor. “These skills boost your confidence and help you make lasting, positive impressions in any setting.”
Francillia Austin from the learning & development team added, “chivalry isn’t dead. Both young men and women benefit from learning to be respectful, poised and socially aware. These qualities shape future leaders.”
Managing Director James McAnally emphasised the long-term vision of such partnerships, “at Beaches, our goal is to inspire the next
generation. We believe in education, community engagement and sustainability. This collaboration is a reflection of our shared responsibility to uplift the region. To the students, I say—explore beyond your ordinary and reach for the stars.”
This training is just one example of BTC’s ongoing commitment to youth development and education across the Turks & Caicos Islands and the wider Caribbean. The resort continues to offer impactful experiences that go beyond the classroom by blending hospitality with mentorship.
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