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Her Excellency The Governor and the Chair of The Integrity Commission publish the findings of the Independent Effectiveness Review of The Integrity Commission

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Turks and Caicos, December 18, 2024 – Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Chair of the Integrity Commission, Hon. Justice Lobban Jackson, today publish jointly the findings of the Independent Effectiveness Review of the Integrity Commission.

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam

The Independent Review, conducted by Crest Advisory, assessed the Integrity Commission’s structure, operations and overall performance against its constitutional mandate and objectives. A specialist consultancy firm, Crest Advisory, with expertise in regulatory oversight, accountability measures and criminal justice, was selected to undertake the independent review.

More than 40 stakeholders were interviewed during the independent review, in conjunction with public calls for evidence, inviting input from both the general public and a comprehensive range of public office holders.  Declarants included elected officials and senior public servants, members of the public, Commissioners and Integrity Commission staff.

The review found that the Integrity Commission requires fundamental reform:

  • The challenges faced by the Integrity Commission demonstrate that it is unable to fulfil its mandate effectively.
  • It does not sufficiently distinguish between strategic and operational responsibilities, leaving it unable to focus its efforts or measure its success.
  • Public trust has been compromised by perceived shortcomings in its investigative practices and a lack of transparency more broadly.

The findings make clear that without substantial reform, the Commission will struggle to meet its objectives effectively. The report proposes more than 40 recommendations to fundamentally restructure and reform the Commission.

The recommendations were developed from an evaluation of the evidence gathered, stakeholder consultation, international best practice, evaluations of public services and government arms’ length bodies, as well as expert advice.

To address the findings and implement the recommendations outlined in the review, Her Excellency the Governor and Chair will establish a working group consisting of leads in governance, legal oversight and public administration to work collaboratively with the Board of Commissioners and stakeholders to implement a comprehensive reform plan in line with the recommendations of the report.

Her Excellency the Governor said:

“The Integrity Commission holds a significant role within the Constitutional governance of the Turks and Caicos Islands, affirming standards of accountability for individuals holding public office. The findings of this review make clear that the Integrity Commission requires significant reform to regain public trust and deliver on its mandate effectively. The Chair and I are taking decisive action to take forward the recommendations of the review.  I want to thank the Chair, the Board and the staff of the Integrity Commission for their openness and cooperation throughout this review process. Their willingness to engage constructively and acknowledge the need for change is a critical step towards meaningful reform.

Hon. Justice Lobban Jackson

Together, we can work to restore public confidence and ensure the Commission fulfils its vital role with integrity and effectiveness.”

Chair of the Integrity Commission said:

“This independent review has provided a sobering but necessary assessment of the Integrity Commission’s performance. While the findings are difficult, they present an opportunity for growth and renewal. The review has highlighted significant challenges within the Integrity Commission that must be addressed as a matter of priority to build a stronger, more effective institution that operates with the transparency and accountability the public deserves.  We welcome the establishment of the working group and are fully committed to working collaboratively to implement the recommended changes and rebuild confidence in the Commission’s work.”

The full report on the Effectiveness Review will be laid in the House and made available on the Turks and Caicos Islands Government website.

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TCI Border Force Hosts Border Security Training for Overseas Territories

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Turks and Caicos, February 12, 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force recently concluded a series of critical training exercises focused on container targeting, search procedures, and firearms awareness. This initiative, a vital investment in regional security, saw TCI Border Force officers joined by colleagues from the Anguilla Customs Department, BVI Customs Department, and Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control.

The training, conducted from 21st to 31st January, was facilitated by a team from Home Office International Operations through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Border Security Programme and organised via the Integrated Security Funding Overseas Territories Border Security Programme. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the UK government and participating agencies to combat transnational crime and the flow of illicit goods within the Overseas Territories.

The curriculum encompassed three courses. The first, Fundamentals of Container Targeting (21st-24th January), focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of current priorities and container targeting capabilities, risk analysis within container traffic, and practical exercises utilising intelligence flows. The second, Search of Containers, saw participants receive specialised training on current threats facing the shipping industry and best practices for container search procedures. Finally, a crucial course on Firearms Awareness provided instruction on various types of firearms and the identification of firearm parts, equipping officers with the knowledge necessary to interdict illegal weapons.

These training exercises represent a significant step forward in strengthening the TCI Border Force’s ability to facilitate trade while protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enhanced targeting and search capabilities will lead to more effective screening of cargo and potentially shorter processing times for legitimate shipments. Greater security will also be evident as the increased focus on firearms awareness will contribute to a safer environment.

“This training is a crucial investment in the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Emilio Seymour; Director General of TCI Border Force. “By working collaboratively with our regional partners and leveraging the expertise of the Home Office, we are significantly improving our ability to detect and deter criminal activity. The enhanced skills acquired by our officers will have a direct and positive impact on our community, protecting our economy and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

The TCI Border Force remains committed to protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This training initiative represents a significant investment in that commitment.

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Solar PV Projects Completed at Critical Turks and Caicos Islands Healthcare Facilities

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Grand Turk Wellness Center

PRESS RELEASE

 

FROM THE Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities

South Caicos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11th February 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future with the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at key healthcare facilities across the archipelago.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) and implemented by Expertise France, aims to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs for the TCI Government, and contribute to long-term economic viability.

North Caicos

The solar PV systems have been strategically installed at critical medical facilities, including the Blue Hills Clinic in Providenciales, the Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos, the Alsada Hall-Malcolm Primary Healthcare Clinic in Middle Caicos, the South Caicos Primary Health Clinic, and the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. These healthcare centers provide essential services to local communities, and the integration of solar energy demonstrates TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency within vital public sectors.

Leading this transformative initiative is the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities (MPSU). The EUD has overseen the installation and integration of these solar PV systems within the local energy landscape, leveraging the islands’ abundant sunshine which averages approximately 350 sunny days per year — an ideal setting for solar energy generation. These systems, equipped with advanced battery storage solutions, will significantly reduce electricity costs for healthcare facilities while ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages or energy supply challenges.

Middle Caicos

EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The solar PV systems will greatly reduce electricity costs and symbolize our shift toward a sustainable energy future. This investment not only strengthens energy security, but reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and environmental impact.”

The collaboration between the European Union, Expertise France, and local government agencies ensures that the project aligns with international renewable energy standards, benefiting both the environment and the community. Installation was successfully carried out by Green Revolution Ltd., a local company committed to advancing sustainable development in TCI. Their involvement highlights the importance of local expertise and community engagement in executing renewable energy initiatives.

Blue Hills

For further information, please contact:

Energy and Utilities Department (EUD)
Email: eud@gov.tc

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SHARK INCIDENT, BLUE HILLS

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12 February 2025, Providenciales – On Friday 7 February a tourist was injured by a shark in the waters adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales.

The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.

Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.

The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed.

Further to the investigation, it has been determined that the tourist had attempted to engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs.

The DECR would like to urge the public to always  be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances

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