Update on Meeting with the Governor and Constitutional Reform Timeline

Turks and Caicos, August 22, 2024 – On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, I had the honor of meeting with Her Excellency the Governor to discuss several critical issues that are directly impacting our people and our communities.

We focused on the alarming levels of crime affecting our islands and the necessary support for our law enforcement agencies. It is imperative that we work together with all key stakeholders to ensure the protection of our residents. Ensuring the safety and security of our communities is a top priority for the Peoples’ Democratic Movement (PDM), and we are committed to advocating for the resources and strategies necessary to combat this challenge. And when that time comes we are committed to putting the required crime-fighting and crime-preventing resources, capacities, capabilities, specialties, and strategic policies in place.

Additionally, we addressed the recent changes in the UK government, possible changes in approach to addressing the needs and concerns of the overseas territories – in particular our Turks & Caicos Islands, and discussed potential dates for a possible visit to the TCI by the new Minister responsible for Overseas Territories. This meeting is essential for strengthening our relationship and addressing our local needs.

A significant part of our discussion involved the timelines for the proposed changes to the Turks and Caicos Islands constitution. Here is an outline of the necessary steps to ensure these changes reach the Privy Council:

1. Submission of Approved Package: The approved package of constitutional reform proposals will be submitted to the new Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Minister for principle agreement.

2. Finalization of the Order in Council (OIC): The FCDO will finalize the Order in Council.

3. Draft OIC Preparation: A draft OIC, along with an explanatory memorandum and cover letter, will be prepared and submitted to the FCDO Minister for provisional approval.

4. Submission to the Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC): The draft OIC will then be submitted to the Foreign Affairs Committee.

5. Formal Approval and Signature: the draft will be submitted again to the FCDO Minister for formal approval and signature.

6. Finally, progress to the Privy Council: meeting scheduled for November 6, 2024.

The proposed changes to our Constitution, though nominal, are essential for our continued progress toward self-governance, and I will keep you informed as we advance in this process.

The PDM remains dedicated to representing your interests and concerns. Together, we will work towards a safer, more prosperous future for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Hon. Edwin A. Astwood
Leader, Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM)
Turks and Caicos Islands