“We have the Money” say PDM leaders in announcing Stimulus Plan, Housing Policy and Crown Land cost cuts

Deandrea hamilton

Editor

Turks and Caicos, November 22, 2024 – A cost of living stimulus every quarter is what the People’s Democratic Movement is promising voters who elect them as the next Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“After winning the next General Elections will propose our own Cost of Living stimulus; not at the end of the year, not during election time, but we will look at every three months: March, June, September, December,” said Edwin Astwood, Opposition PDM party leader during a press conference held at the party’s headquarters in Providenciales.

“We have the money.  We have the money and we can do it.  This stimulus will cost $60 Million over the course of the year.”

Astwood said the 2024 fiscal cycle has so far outperformed estimates, creating a $102 Million stimulus.

“Whenever the country makes more, we will give the people more.  Not just at election time.  This is the PDM government, this is your future government.  You will benefit from your country.”

Astwood is of the view that the country is seeing exceptional revenue generated and this is not being felt by residents sufficiently enough.

“Your PDM government knows the importance of understanding our people’s unique needs and aspirations.  Wew will offer customised solutions to cater specifically to the goals of each individual, each local business and organisations here in the country.  Innovation and adaptation, the PDM believes that it is critical for our people and our country to stay ahead of the rapidly changing world.”

The party’s deputy leader, Robert Been addressed areas including expanding education to include vocational studies, establishing sporting and mentorship programs and a different approach to reverse the housing crisis.

“We know we have a major housing issue in the Turks and Caicos and also an issue with accessing land.  This current PNP government took it upon themselves to offer a 50% discount of the market value of the price for our locals to obtain the freehold title, which just simply is not working.   Under this PDM government we will waive that 50% and allow our locals to purchase their Crown Land based on the original lease agreement that was assigned years ago,” said Been.

The PDM Leader said his government is one of restoration which will introduce a Home Ownership Policy.

“It’s not just the poor people who cannot afford houses.  Many of our people who have good jobs, teachers, nurses, doctors, professionals all of them cannot afford homes in our country.  We are being priced out of paradise and your (PDM) government, through our policies, would be properly funded, we want to give you keys.”

Astwood, the member for Grand Turk South said the party is aimed at driving “connected communities” and home ownership for any island in the archipelago for its citizens.

The PDM Press conference was held Wednesday November 20, 2024.