News
The Case for a New Penitentiary in Turks and Caicos Islands
Turks and Caicos, August 14, 2024 – The Turks and Caicos Islands face a critical need: a modern penitentiary to address the growing incarceration rate. The existing prison’s deteriorating infrastructure is no longer capable of fulfilling its purpose.
A new, properly budgeted prison preferably on one of the other islands could provide a solution, while the current Grand Turk facility could be repurposed for rehabilitation and low-level offenders.
This concept isn’t new; it was previously suggested by the former administration but faced public resistance due to its timing—proposed amidst the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Two pressing issues exacerbate this situation. First, there’s a dire need for affordable housing for marginalized communities and ex-convicts. Second, employment opportunities for those released from prison are scarce.
Ignoring these issues could contributes to a cycle of reoffending and increased childhood poverty due to lack of unproductive parenthood.
Addressing this issue is crucial for preventing recidivism. The current facility lacks the necessary services, programs and space. Moreover, strong support networks for those dealing with addiction are essential for reintegration.
The recent opening of the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Supervision office in Providenciales is a commendable initiative. It could provide an outlet to assist with rehabilitating offenders and support alternative sentencing for low-level crimes.
In a joint effort between prison administration and the department of rehabilitation, Low-risk offenders could be task with cleaning of parks and roads etc. provided the facility receives adequate staffing and resources.
However, government efforts alone are insufficient; societal participation in the rehabilitative process is vital. A society that is unforgiving impedes rehabilitation, necessitating a shift in mindset.
There are a number of underlining factors that can support this argument.
Cost for Prisoner transport, safety, adequate spacing to support internal vocational programs and life skills before reintegration into society etc.
Unlike some developed countries, Turks and Caicos lacks halfway houses where job opportunities are provided, and employers receive tax incentives to hire ex-convicts. Many ex-offenders, once able to make an honest living at the beach, now operate in the shadows due to tighter restrictions.
Exploring how to integrate these individuals into the workforce without compromising tourism safety is important. Perhaps, offering Independent salesmanship permits is an option. This will allow contributions to NHIB and NHIP, which will reduce government dependency in the long term.
Investing in rehabilitative programs, addressing high drug usage in custody, and enhancing post-release support are essential for a coherent crime reduction strategy. This approach could also serve as a conditional release program, offering ex-convicts a second
chance.
It’s imperative that Lawmakers balance prison sentences with a focus on community safety through effective programs, rehabilitation, and outreach rather than solely imposing harsher penalties.
If given the opportunity, I believe idle hands can be directed towards positive contributions to society. On the contrast, Prisons can also be a breeding ground for dangerous gangs, making it crucial to reach this group before it becomes a greater problem.
This can be done by investing in the appropriate resources necessary. What we must come to grips with is, the fact that most of these offenders are not serving life sentences and will eventually be released into society. Then what?
These are valid concerns and must be addressed. As James Baldwin once said, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
This truth highlights the need for Turks and Caicos to confront these challenges head-on, ensuring viable strategies and solutions are in the country’s best interests.
By addressing these issues proactively, policymakers can influence change, engage the public in meaningful conversations, and enhance societal well-being.
Cheers!
Ed Forbes
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (March 5, 2026) – As the Turks and Caicos sporting community celebrates the spirit of
youth athleticism, leading telecoms provider, Flow is highlighting the transformative power of connectivity following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Inter-High Track and Field Championships held at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Stadium from February 26 to 28.
As the Official Media Sponsor for the event, Flow provided livestreaming services that premiered across social media and on Flow TV’s Channel 111. This ensured that families and fans throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands could witness every record-breaking moment. To keep the event running at top speed, Flow also provided broadband services throughout the venue, maintaining seamless connectivity throughout the games.
“Our long-standing partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission is a shared promise to invest in the next generation. Over the years we have worked together to create opportunities for young people to train, compete and grow,” said Joanne Missick, Country
Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands.
“We make this investment because sport develops more than athletes. It’s a long-term investment for us in our people, pride and possibility, and it’s a partnership we hold close because advancing our youth advances the entire nation.”
The commitment to the Games extended directly to the track, where Flow served as the headline sponsor for the 200-meter category. Spanning seven races, the partnership culminated during the official medal ceremony with the company presenting winners with Flow merchandise bags.
Off the track, Flow mobilised engagement through the interactive sales booth. The site became a hub for activity, featuring Spin the Wheel promotions and gift certificate giveaways during Q&A intermissions, ensuring the energy of the crowd remained high.
Looking ahead, Flow is preparing to carry this momentum into the upcoming Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships, continuing its investment in the next generation of sporting talent in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
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.
(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.
Key Activities Included:
Educational Training Sessions
Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.
House Call Talk Show Feature
A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.
Red Fridays Awareness Campaign
Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.
Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run
In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of
heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.
Digital Health Education Campaign
To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.
Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment
While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:
- Community-based education initiatives
- Preventative screening and early detection programs
- Lifestyle and wellness promotion
- Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes
“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant. “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”
For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc
About TCI Hospital
TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.
