News
Is this Economy Working for You?
Sean R. Astwood
Turks and Caicos, September 5, 2024 – In recent years, the widening gap between economic prosperity and the struggles of the average person has become impossible to ignore. While corporations report record profits and government boast about surplus after surplus, many families find themselves grappling with the harsh realities of everyday life. Rising costs of living, stagnant wages that do not keep up with inflation, and an ever-increasing burden of debt have created an environment where prosperity in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) feels like a distant memory.
The financial strain on everyday people is getting worse. Each month, thousands of households face the daunting task of balancing their finances. Rent and mortgage payments consume a significant portion of their income, leaving little room for essentials like groceries, healthcare, and education. A recent small random survey of average working TCIs revealed that nearly 60% would struggle to cover an unexpected $300 expense. This statistic highlights a deeper issue: the fragility of financial security for the average person.
Inflation continues to erode buying power, making it harder to afford basic necessities. Gas prices fluctuate unpredictably, and grocery bills have surged, forcing families to make tough choices about what to buy and what to go without. The burden of loans from banks and other financial companies with insanely high interest rates, along with continuous medical expenses, weighs heavily on TCI families, many of whom feel trapped in a cycle of financial instability that is causing widespread stress. I also spoke with a cross section of persons near retirement age, private and public sector workers, who have expressed that they are not able to retire. Higher interest rates have significantly increased their monthly mortgage payments, while their salaries remain stagnant. The fear of losing home ownership post-retirement is real.
As these pressures mount, feelings of hopelessness are spreading across. Many people feel overwhelmed by their financial situations. This despair is not just economic; it affects communities. Reports of mental health struggles are on the rise, although they are often underreported social interactions and community ties, leading to a general sense of disillusionment with our political system, and causing some to buy into the false narrative that all politicians and political parties are the same.
People are questioning whether their voices matter in a system that seems to prioritize the interests of big business over the welfare of its people. Cries for help are met with silence from the government, promises made during the last elections campaign have been quickly forgotten, leaving many feeling that their efforts are futile. The notion that hard work leads to success has become increasingly elusive, and the promise of upward mobility feels like a cruel joke.
However, in this bleak landscape, there is a flicker of hope on the horizon. As we approach the next elections, the opportunity for change is near. A new government, one that prioritizes the needs of the man on the streets over big business, could bring a renewed sense of optimism.
As a candidate, I am focused on implementing policies that address wage stagnation, affordable housing, crime and border security, healthcare and immigration reform, the full implementation of e-government and true prosperity for all TCIs. These well-thought-out policies and programs resonate deeply with a populace weary of empty promises. It is time to think big and act boldly for our people and our country. The possibility of a government that truly represents the interests of its people will soon be realized.
By voting for candidates who prioritize economic reform and social equity, you can reclaim your dreams and begin to rebuild your lives. Your power as a voter cannot be underestimated; it has the potential to reshape our economy into one that works for everyone, not just the privileged few. That is why my plan to designate certain sectors of the economy for TCIs only is so important. Under my plan, specific sectors of the economy will be exclusively owned and operated by Turks and Caicos Islanders. This means that all shares, business licenses, company assets, bank accounts, and profits will be 100% TCI-owned.
Under this plan, expatriates would be limited to acting solely as financiers, offering loans to TCI-owned companies without holding any ownership stakes. This approach will address the challenge of access to capital for TCIs, which has been one of the biggest hurdles to locals starting, operating, and expanding their businesses. It will promote greater local business ownership and growth. My plan will also be the final solution to “fronting,” which has historically undermined the efforts of successive governments.
As we stand at this crossroads, let us harness our frustrations and channel them into a movement for change. Together, we can create a future where financial security is not a luxury but a right for all. It is time to turn the tide and reclaim the narrative of hope for the average man and woman in our society.
The journey may be long, but with determination and unity, a brighter economic future is within reach.
It’s time for TCIs!
***MEDIA RELEASE***
Turks and Caicos, October 03rd, 2024 – The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) wishes to announce the following temporary leadership changes as Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin has proceeded on six weeks of leave.
Deputy Commissioner (DCP) Rodney Adams will serve as Acting Commissioner from October 1 to October 6.
Following this, Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Kendall Grant will take over as Acting Commissioner. 
Furthermore, effective October 7, 2024, the Force welcomes the temporary appointment of a second DCP, Fitz Bailey. Mr. Bailey is a former DCP from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) with over 40 years of policing experience. The appointment is for a period three months and will provide further resilience to the Force Executive at this time.
During his career, Mr. Bailey has led the following portfolios: the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), the Intelligence Branch, the Counter-Terrorism and the Organised Crime Investigation
Branch (C-TOC). He was instrumental in reviewing and reorganising the JCF’s Crime Reporting and Case Management Policy and established a Cold Case Unit.
Mr. Bailey holds a Master of Science in Psychology and Criminal Investigation from the University of Liverpool, a Master of Science in National Security and Strategies from the University of the West Indies, Mona, and an Associate Degree in Accounting from the Management Institute for National Development.
Commissioner Martin stated: “Acting arrangements have been put in place to cover the period of my absence. The Force Executive has been fully briefed and will continue to maintain the strategic goals and objectives of the Force while at the same time ensuring the welfare of all staff”.
Turks and Caicos, October 3, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is proud to announce Ms. Detresha Cox’s appointment to the position of Assistant Commissioner of Labor with the Ministry of Border Control and Labor.
Ms. Cox holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Labor and Employment Relations from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill (2023), which has provided her with in-depth knowledge of labor laws and standards. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Development Studies, concentrating on Governance and Public Policy at SALISES, UWI Mona, further enhancing her expertise in the field.
Upon returning home from University, Ms. Cox served as a Senior Labor Inspector, a role in which she honed her skills in applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. In this position, she managed labor disputes, mediated conflicts between employers and employees, conducted workplace inspections, and ensured compliance with occupational safety and health standards. Her academic
grounding and her hands-on experience have equipped her with a deep understanding of labor issues and the leadership skills necessary for her new role.
Ms. Cox, on her new role said: “I am incredibly honored and deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Assistant Commissioner of Labor. This appointment is a great honor, and I am committed to using my knowledge and experience to contribute meaningfully to the department’s mission and the nation’s labor policy of enhancing labor relations and promoting equitable employment opportunities. With a focus on policy development, compliance, and fostering strong partnerships with stakeholders, I will work diligently to ensure the department continues to meet the needs of both employers and employees. My dedication to public service remains unwavering, and I look forward to driving positive change in the workforce. I want to express my sincere thanks for the overwhelming support and well wishes received; this encouragement has been a constant source of strength. As I step into this role, I believe that success is not just about what you accomplish but what you inspire others to do. Together, I look forward to building a brighter future for our workforce.”
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H. E. Anya Williams, remarked on Ms. Cox’s appointment, saying, “With extensive knowledge, a qualified educational background in Labor and Employment Relations, hands-on experience, and a commitment to advancing labor relations, Ms. Cox is poised to make significant contributions to the Ministry of Border Control and Labor. Embodying the qualities of a public servant—dedication, expertise, and a genuine commitment to uplifting the workforce. We are excited to see Ms. Cox lead as Assistant Commissioner of Labor and contribute to the continued advancement of labor standards in our community. We look forward to Ms. Cox’s contributions in her new role and are confident that she will greatly benefit the Ministry of Labor and the workforce at large.
Congratulations, Ms. Cox, on this well-deserved promotion.”
News
EUD invites input from residents as it reopens public consultation on the Renewable Energy Bill
Providenciales, October 3, 2024 – The Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Government (TCIG) is pleased to announce a program of further public engagement on the country’s proposed Renewable Energy and Resource Planning Bill 2023 (RE Bill).
“The EUD has embarked on a comprehensive consultation program with key stakeholders to the RE Bill, including all residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” explained EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur. “The program begins today with our request for your initial written feedback on the draft RE Bill, and continues throughout October with public meetings in communities across the country, a 5-part educational series that breaks down the key aspects of the proposed Bill, a brief survey to gauge your perspectives on both the RE Bill and solar development here in TCI, and more. We want to ensure residents have every opportunity to understand this important proposed legislation.”
The RE Bill puts legislated structure in place that enables a safe, reliable, and sustainable energy supply for all TCI residents, today and in the future:
- It establishes a competitive government-managed procurement process for future large-scale renewable energy supplies
- It enables homes and businesses to install small-scale renewable energy generators such as solar PV to meet their needs, and sell surpluses back to the grid
- It makes it necessary for anyone who wants to produce renewable energy to get a license.
- It outlines the rules for connecting renewable energy systems to the electricity grid, ensuring grid stability, safety and fairness.
- It establishes an Energy Levy Fund which will collect a small fee from large-scale renewable energy producers to support new community renewable energy projects and research.
“With this Bill, our overarching goals are to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, increase energy diversity, enhance energy security, and support the country’s transition to a more sustainable energy future,” added Commissioner Arthur. “It will provide a framework for renewable energy systems including licensing and interconnection, as well as the development of integrated resource planning for the energy sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It’s an important piece of legislation that will impact us all.”
The schedule of public consultation sessions, hosted by the EUD Commissioner and his team, will be shared via the EUD’s social media channels and in print media in the coming days and throughout October.
“The resources we are making available to you will help you better understand the RE Bill and how it impacts you,” continued Mr. Arthur. “We encourage you to engage fully – to review the materials and share your written feedback over the coming weeks, and join us in your local church basements and community halls when we come out to see you in October. These smaller, face-to-face sessions provide the best opportunities for meaningful conversation on our country’s energy future.”
TCI residents have until Friday, October 25, 2024 to provide initial written feedback on the draft Renewable Energy and Resource Planning Bill 2023. The Bill and associated materials may be found at https://www.gov.tc/eud/. Further, residents are encouraged to follow the EUD’s social media pages for the RE Bill survey launch in mid-October, and for details on public meetings in communities across the country.
Feedback on the Renewable Energy Bill can be sent to the following email address eudconsultation@gov.tc.
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