Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

Turks and Caicos, January 10, 2024 – Extensive training and tailored representations were a hallmark achievement during the 2024 Judicial year in the Turks and Caicos Islands, with members of the judiciary and legal fraternity attending and participating in conferences at home and abroad; the report came from the country’s Chief Justice, Her Ladyship, Mabel Agyemang.

Chief Justice Agyemang in speaking on Monday January 6, at the Opening of the Legal Year gave a comprehensive review.

“My Lords, Judicial Education in the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to soar to attain new heights. In 2024, JEI delivered the two mandatory trainings for Justices of the Peace and also provided training to the Bar at their request on Probate Matters, and Civil Advocacy. In February 2024, the JEI organised training for judges and magistrates on the topic of Judicial Comportment, which was delivered by Justice Baptiste. In March, training was organised for the Bar on Civil Advocacy which was delivered by Mr. Ian Wilkinson KC and Mr. Tim Prudhoe. The Hon Justice Ian Morley KC, Mr Oliver Smith KC and Ms Lara Maroof delivered training on Criminal Advocacy,” said the Chief Justice.

A Learning and Ideas session was designed to foster a culture of innovation amongst JPs, judicial staff and members of the TCI Bar Council.  These Turks and Caicos practitioners were exposed to Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Issues, Anti-Money Laundering legislation, including refresher courses on court procedures, judicial ethics and warrants.

Actions to improve the efficiency and proficiency of the court system seemed to also be in focus for staff.

“Learning was also provided on Courtroom Management and Avoidable Delays, Judgment Writing in Criminal Cases/Extempore Judgments and Summations, as well as Disclosure in Criminal Cases. We washed the enjoyable fare down with a lecture on safeguarding our Mental Wellness in the stressful occupations that keep the wheels of justice oiled and turning,” said the Chief Justice.

Not all of the training was in-country or virtual, some travel to other jurisdictions was also listed as beneficial for the Turks and Caicos justice system.

“In February 2024, at the invitation of the FIDA Grand Bahama Chapter, I attended Grand Bahama Chapter Installation 2024 to present the keynote address entitled “The Practice of the Law – Reclaiming its Pride, Purpose and Place” at the Installation Dinner held in Freeport, Bahamas. I also, in June of 2024, participated in the Annual Regional Chief Justices and Heads of Judiciaries Conference which took place in Kingston Jamaica and was attended by all Heads of Judiciary. The two-day conference provided valuable insights on effective court administration as well as the use of technology in adjudication.”

A meeting in Qatar, attended by some 57 jurisdictions included Turks and Caicos justice, Hon Gruchot.

“…the meeting at which keynote addresses touched on several pertinent areas including ‘Developing the Relationship between Commercial Courts, Arbitration and Mediation’.”

Another string of important gatherings happened between September and November including the  Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges Association (CMJA) conference held in Kigali, Rwanda; the Registrar of the Supreme Court went on a two-week immersive training program at the Royal Court of Justice in the United Kingdom on the Taxation of Costs and other matters and Justice of Appeal Bernard Turner, led a team of three Judicial Officers, as well as the Court Administrator to the 8th Biennial Conference of the Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers on behalf of the Judiciary.

In Addition to the training and international exposure designed to bolster the judiciary, Turks and Caicos came on board as a signatory for a Caribbean region integration initiative, also described by the Chief Justice in her speech.

“I am also happy to report that the Judiciary of the Turks and Caicos Islands joined six (6) of its regional partners, Belize, Barbados, The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, in signing on to JustConnect which is a unique collaborative on-line training platform that will benefit the Caribbean region and which will significantly increase judicial training opportunities in the region.

The anticipation is for JustConnnect advance the administration of justice in the Caribbean through the shared delivery of high quality, virtual, judicial education.

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH, SPORTS AND CULTURE

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, December 2024 – In a historic and heartwarming ceremony on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, the Maud L. Handfield Special Education Needs Unit was officially named and opened in Bottle Creek, North Caicos. Fittingly, the dedication was held on International Day for Persons with Disabilities, a day that underscores the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for all.

The ceremony, hosted by the Department of Special Education Needs Services, was attended by Mrs. Maud L. Handfield herself, along with her children, grandchildren, and a host of relatives, friends, and community members. Also present were distinguished guests including Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education; Hon. Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Immigration and Member of Parliament for North and Middle Caicos; and Jasmin Walkin, District Commissioner for North Caicos.

Remarking on the occasion, Director of Special Education Needs Services, Dr. Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, celebrated the significance of naming the unit in honor of Mrs. Handfield: “As we marked the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, we also honored a woman whose lifetime of service to education and inclusion has transformed lives. Mrs. Handfield’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. This unit will carry her name as a beacon of hope for children with special needs, ensuring that her impact is felt for generations to come.”

Hon. Arlington Musgrove also expressed pride in the achievement: “As the representative for North and Middle Caicos, it fills me with pride to witness this milestone in our community. This unit will provide vital services for children with special needs, ensuring they have the tools to succeed. Mrs. Handfield’s dedication and legacy continue to inspire us all.”

The Principal of Adelaide Oemler, Mrs. Abigail Delancy, shared insight into how the facility is already making a difference: “This special need unit has become a central hub for students across North and Middle Caicos, providing access to tailored resources and specialized support that was not previously available. The inclusion of dedicated staff and resources, such as speech and behavioral therapy tools, allows us to serve students from multiple schools effectively. It is a joy to see these children grow and develop in an environment built to meet their unique needs. This is a game-changer for our community, and we are committed to making the most of this incredible opportunity.”

Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, reflected on the importance of the day stating, “This is a momentous occasion as we open the Maud L. Handfield Special Education Needs Unit on a day that celebrates the abilities, rights, and contributions of persons with disabilities worldwide. This unit not only honors Mrs. Handfield’s tremendous contributions but also represents our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and equity in education. It is a testament to our belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive. I thank Mrs. Handfield for her vision and the community for their support in making this dream a reality.”

The event culminated with the unveiling of the unit’s nameplate and a tour of the new facility. The Maud L. Handfield Special Education Needs Unit symbolizes a future of hope, empowerment, and inclusivity for children with special needs in North Caicos and beyond.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands: The Office of the Deputy Premier Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development is pleased to provide an update on the progress of ongoing Road Rehabilitation Works being carried out on Leeward Highway, Providenciales. This project forms part of the Ministry’s commitment to improving road safety, enhancing transportation efficiency, and supporting economic growth through better infrastructure.

At present, the project is approximately 50% complete, with significant progress made in improving road conditions. The project is on track for completion by late December 2024, contingent upon the absence of unforeseen delays.

The following key components necessary for project completion include:

• Paving continuation of the Leeward Highway Eastbound Carriageway between Scotiabank and Suzie Turn.
• Rehabilitation of Cherokee Road from the Leeward Highway intersection to the Scotiabank entrance, which will include the installation of a drainage system.
• Rehabilitation of Suzie Turn Roundabout and Suzie Turn Road to Spindrift Way.
• Road Marking and Striping to ensure clear and visible road delineation.

Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development stated: “We acknowledge the cooperation of the public as we endeavour to enhance the condition of the Leeward Highway. These improvements will facilitate safer and more efficient travel for all residents and visitors of the Island. We remain resolute in our commitment to delivering durable and efficient infrastructure that addresses the present and future needs of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Our teams are working diligently to meet the deadline, and I am confident that the completed project will yield significant benefits not only for Providenciales but for the greater Turks and Caicos Islands”.

During this period of improvements, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development advises the public to anticipate minimal disruptions, including temporary lane closures, diversions, and potential delays during peak travel hours on Leeward Highway.

The Ministry extends gratitude to all residents and motorists for their patience and understanding as these vital works are completed. Road users are encouraged to exercise caution and adhere to posted signage within the work areas.

Your cooperation is essential to ensuring safety for both the public and workers, as well as to facilitate the smooth flow of traffic. The Ministry remains dedicated to keeping the public informed regarding ongoing progress and updates.