News
PNP Statement: People’s Democratic Party Makes Unrealistic Promises to Citizens
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The Progressive National Party (PNP) Government, led by Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick, remains steadfast in its commitment to responsible governance and delivering sustainable solutions for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Recent assertions by Opposition Leader Honourable Edwin Astwood, promising three annual stimulus payments if elected, lack both historical precedent and economic feasibility.
Understanding Stimulus Payments. Stimulus payments are strategic interventions employed during periods of significant economic distress. Their implementation requires specific fiscal conditions – ones that cannot be predetermined with certainty – including budget surpluses or identified funding sources that do not compromise essential services or impose additional burdens on taxpayers. The
Opposition has not provided a viable plan detailing how such frequent payments would be financed without resorting to increased taxes or cuts to critical services. As these instruments are dependent on various circumstances,
“Stimulus packages are not political tools; they are carefully considered measures designed to provide relief during exceptional circumstances,” stated Premier Misick. “Our government’s track record reflects our dedication to addressing the needs of our citizens while maintaining economic stability.”
A Proven Record. The PNP Government has consistently implemented policies aimed at enhancing the economic well-being of Turks and Caicos Islanders. Key initiatives include:
- Targeted Cost of Living Relief:
- Stimulus Payments: Since February 2021, the PNP has issued three stimulus/relief packages to eligible citizens equaling $45 million. The upcoming fourth payment underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting households amid rising costs and will amount to over $50 million in payouts to the people of these islands.
- Electricity Subsidies: We allocated $5 million between October and December 2022 to subsidize electricity costs, mitigating the impact of global fuel price increases.
- Economic Empowerment:
- MSME Support: Grants for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) were increased to $50,000, supporting over 200 local businesses in the past year alone.
- Customs Processing Fee Reduction: The Customs Processing Fee was reduced from 7.5% to 5%, and eliminated it entirely on breadbasket items, ensuring essential goods remain affordable.
- Duty-Free Allowance Increase: The duty-free allowance for residents importing personal goods was raised to $1,000, easing the financial burden on families.
- Support for Vulnerable Populations:
- Pension Increases: We implemented a 10% increase in National Insurance Board (NIB) pensions, enhancing financial security for retirees.
- Welfare Program Expansion: We expanded welfare programs, including home help, juvenile care, and welfare grants, to provide comprehensive support to those in need.
- Foster Care Stipend Increase: We raised the foster care stipend to $1,500 per month, ensuring adequate support for children in care.
- Financial Assistance Program for the Elderly: We launched a program increasing assistance to $1,000 per month to all senior citizens, ensuring they can meet their basic needs with dignity.
- Investments in Education and Workforce:
- Free Tuition: Free tuition has been introduced at theTurks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC), making higher education accessible to all citizens.
- Access to Employment: A paid Apprenticeship Program was instituted to provide immediate employment opportunities to our returning students.
- Public Service Salary Increases: We implemented the largest Civil Servants pay raise in the country’s history at $18 million in December 2023, with salary increases ranging from 10% to 50%, including significant raises for frontline officers and
educators. - Free Daycare and After-School Programs: We established programs to support working families, ensuring children have access to free daycare, and safe, enriching environments beyond school hours.
The Opposition’s Track Record. During their tenure, the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) failed to implement substantial, long-term solutions to address the cost of living or provide meaningful economic relief. They executed a stimulus relief package that most citizens were not eligible to apply for. Their current promises lack credibility, given the absence of a clear, actionable plan. Turks and Caicos Islanders deserve leadership that offers more than political rhetoric.
The PNP Government’s recently announced Cost of Living Relief package to be distributed before Christmas 2024, is a testament to its proactive and compassionate approach. Each eligible citizen will receive $1,000, providing immediate support during these challenging times.
“Our government has a proven track record of standing with our people, not just in words but in actions,” affirmed Premier Misick. “We act decisively, not recklessly, because we understand the responsibility that comes with governing.”
The PNP remains focused on building a resilient, self-sustaining economy that addresses the root causes of high costs while supporting citizens during challenging times. Honourable Astwood’s unrealistic promises serve as a reminder of the importance of leadership rooted in integrity, realism, and action.
As Premier Misick eloquently stated, “Leadership is not about making empty promises; it’s about delivering meaningful change. The people of the Turks and Caicos Islands deserve nothing less.”
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
News
BermudAir Launches New York Area’s First Nonstop Service to South Caicos, Now Just a 3.5 Hour Flight from Newark
Twice-Weekly Nonstop Flights Begin December 20 with Fares from $347 One Way, Creating Direct Access to Salterra Resort & Spa
– New Route Expands BermudAir’s Winter Turks & Caicos Network –
[New York, NY – August 20, 2026] – BermudAir, the leading premium leisure carrier to Bermuda and the Caribbean, today announced it will introduce nonstop flights to South Caicos from Newark this winter. The route places one of the Caribbean’s most secluded island destinations just 3.5 hours from the New York area for the first time.
The new service starts on December 20, 2026, operating on Sundays and Thursdays, and will be the only nonstop service to the destination
from the New York area. This seasonal service will operate through April 25, 2027. Fares start at $347 one way ($773 roundtrip) and go on sale today.
The new South Caicos route creates gives travelers two distinct luxury resort options, with direct access to Salterra, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, recently named the No. 1 resort in Turks and Caicos by Condé Nast Traveler.
Set across 85 beachfront acres with a 3,000-foot private white-sand beach, Salterra brings a full luxury resort experience to an island still defined by its historic salinas, pristine waters, bonefishing flats and uninhabited cays. Upon landing at South Caicos International Airport (XSC), guests are approximately 10 minutes from the resort.
While flights go on sale today, the airline’s BermudAir Holidays vacation-packaging division will offer curated travel to South Caicos from next month, featuring flights, hotels and authentic island experiences, with bundled discounts and value-added perks, making it even easier to explore the destination.
Previously BermudAir announced seven new routes to Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, from Newark (EWR), Boston (BOS), Baltimore-Washington (BWI), Raleigh-Durham (RDU), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), St Petersburg/Tampa (PIE) and Toronto (YYZ) which will all start in December except for Fort Lauderdale which begins October 26.
Expanded Winter Season
- To South Caicos:
- Twice-weekly nonstop from Newark (Sundays and Thursdays) from December 20 through April 25, 2027.
- To Turks and Caicos:
- Weekly nonstop from Newark (Saturdays) and one weekly direct service (Thursdays) from December 19 through April 29, 2027;
- Weekly nonstop service from Boston (Saturdays), from December 19 through May 1, 2027;
- Weekly nonstop service from Baltimore-Washington (Thursdays), from December 24 through April 29, 2027;
- Twice-weekly nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham (Thursdays and Sundays), from December 20 through May 2, 2027;
- Thrice-weekly service from Fort Lauderdale (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), from October 26 through May 3, 2027;
- Twice-weekly nonstop service from St Petersburg/Tampa (Mondays and Thursdays), from December 21 through May 3, 2027; and
- Weekly nonstop service from Toronto (Saturdays), from December 19 through May 1, 2027.
“We’re thrilled to continue expanding our Caribbean network as the premium leisure carrier from North America,” said Adam Scott, Founder and CEO of BermudAir. “Now New Yorkers can fly nonstop to two distinct sides of the Turks and Caicos Islands — Providenciales and the secluded island of South Caicos, home to the exquisite Salterra and Sailrock South Caicos resorts.”
The airline consistently earns Net Promoter Scores of 70+, one of the highest ratings in the airline industry. All flights will be operated on comfortable Embraer E190 aircraft, offering passengers the airline’s signature warm service and authentic island hospitality.
“South Caicos has always felt worlds away, and that is part of its magic,” said Michael Tibbetts, Founder and CEO of Salterra. “Beginning this winter, guests can fly nonstop from Newark in 3.5 hours, land at one of the newest international airports in the region and be at Salterra minutes later. This route makes a long weekend escape and an extended stay to one of the Caribbean’s most unspoiled islands remarkably easy, without changing the sense of discovery that makes South Caicos so special.”
For more information or to book flights, visit www.flybermudair.com. Salterra will offer dedicated stay packages timed to BermudAir’s Thursday and Sunday nonstop service. To book a stay at Salterra, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, visit www.salterra.com
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Dasani products, proudly sponsored the fifth annual, Caribbean Hoopfest.
The tournament brings together Bahamian high school basketball teams and visiting teams from the United States for a competitive
showcase at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium. Following its inaugural year at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym and last year’s event at Loyola Hall, the tournament returned to the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym this year.
During the weekend tournament, CBC kept athletes well hydrated with in-kind donations of Dasani Water, Powerade and Minute Maid Juices.
During the tournament’s final day, CBC provided additional support by offering Sprite No Sugar samples and inviting attendees to participate in its Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes.
CBC was proud to support this incredible event, which provides young Bahamian athletes with valuable exposure to U.S. basketball scouts and coaches. This opportunity gives them the chance to earn scholarships, continue their education, and pursue their basketball careers in the United States.
Event organizer, Donald Francois shared his appreciation for CBC’s support.
“I want to express our sincere appreciation for Caribbean Bottling Company, who has been a tremendous supporter and an important part of the success of our program. Without CBC’s support, Caribbean Hoop Fest would not be able to function at the level it does today. And without Caribbean Hoop Fest, we would not have been able to provide the opportunities that have helped young Bahamian athletes gain exposure and pursue educational opportunities in the United States,” he expressed.
Since the program’s inception, several Bahamian student-athletes have been selected for scholarship opportunities, highlighting the
tournament’s growing impact on the development and advancement of young basketball talent in The Bahamas.
They are: Kelvin McDowells – Guard, Wodson Antoine – Power Forward, Justin Lafleur – Guard and Sean John – Guard.
After another successful edition of the tournament, Francois shared what he hopes he and Caribbean Bottling Company can achieve in the future.
“Our vision is bigger than basketball. We want to use the platform of Caribbean Hoop Fest to educate, develop, and create opportunities for young people and their families throughout the Bahamas. With individuals and organizations committed to our mission, we believe we can continue to grow the program and make an even greater impact,” Francois said.
For more details on community support, events and new products visit Caribbean Bottling Company at www.cbcbahamas.com today.
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