News
NHIB PLACED UNDER EXAMINATION, MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES REMOVES NHIB BOARD AND CEO AND BEGINS IMPLEMENTATION OF STABLIZATION AND RESCUE PLAN
PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 7th March 2025 – Services (MOHHS) announces the immediate placement of the National Health Insurance Board into examination in accordance with section 39 of the Public Finance Management Ordinance and removes of the Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This action is due to Governor on the advice of the Cabinet, being satisfied on reasonable grounds that the financial viability of the NHIB is at risk or poses systemic risks to the public finances.
The decision to take this necessary action follows a comprehensive review of the NHIB’s financial operations, which revealed serious concerns about the financial viability of the NHIB and the need to ensure proper financial management and systems are restored to stabilize the NHIB so that it can carry out its functions in keeping with its statutory responsibilities.
The National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) plays a vital role in ensuring access to essential healthcare services for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through its management of the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP), the NHIB provides coverage for medical treatments, local and overseas referrals, and other critical healthcare interventions that improve the quality of life for citizens and residents.
Sound financial management and transparency are the cornerstones of any public institution, particularly one as crucial as the NHIB. Proper oversight ensures that public funds are used efficiently, services are delivered equitably, and the trust of the people is maintained. The appointment of a well-established and experienced firm to conduct the review and make recommendations on how to improve the sustainability of the organization.
What is Examination – Examination is a statutory process for statutory bodies which is similar to the process referred to as Company Administration in respect of a private company, whereby an Insolvency Practitioner is appointed as Administrator to restructure a private company, with the aim of either turning it into a profitable company to preserve value and employment. In essence, administration seeks to either provide time for a business to restructure and become profitable. As a statutory body, the NHIB is not a company and cannot be placed in administration. Being placed under Examination in accordance with section 39(2) of the Public Finance Management Ordinance is the similar process for statutory bodies.
The objective of the NHIB entering into examination is to stabilise and rescue it through proper management and restructuring to help it return to financial viability in a controlled and orderly manner under the management of suitably experienced and qualified experts in financial management.
The NHIB will continue to operate and carry out its functions. These steps are being taken to ensure that the underlying business operations are undertaken through strong financial and administrative management and where necessary, restructuring. Section 39(2)(b)(ii) of the Public Finance Management Ordinance allows for the Governor, on the advice of the Cabinet, to remove the members of the board of the NHIB from office and appoint a new board or a person to take over the management of that statutory body. Acting in accordance with section 39(2)(b)(ii) of the PFM, Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel Selveratnam, acting on the advice of the Cabinet –
- a) removed the existing Board of the NHIB and appointed an Interim Board, as follows:
- i) Permanent Secretary, Premier’s Office, Interim Chairperson;
- ii) the Deputy Governor or her representative;
iii) the Attorney General or her representative;
- iv) the Permanent Secretary, Finance or her representative;
- v) the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry with responsibility for health or her representative;
- vi) the Director of Health Services (Chief Medical Officer);
vii) the Director of the National Insurance Board;
viii) the Interim Chief Executive Officer.
- b) appointed INTERPATH, an experienced professional firm as examiner in accordance with section 39(2)(i) of the PFMO.
The Hon. Minister of Health, Kyle Knowles, acting on the policy advice of the Cabinet, has today appointed Dr. Pharez George, as Interim Chief Executive Officer for the time being.
Examination is appropriate because the NHIB is financially distressed but has underlying value and serves a key purpose. Section 39(2) of the PFMO empowers to the Governor on reasonable grounds, to place the NHIB into examination, where the financial viability of the NHIB is at risk or the NHIB poses systemic risks to the public finances. The statutory body examination process may be a tough and intimidating one for the staff of the statutory body, but it can help provide a much-needed recovery route if conducted in the correct manner leading to
greater security for the beneficiaries and staff alike. Having the professional assistance from a qualified insolvency practitioner will help the Interim CEO and the Interim Board to understand their responsibilities and legal obligations at what a difficult time for not only the business is, but for Board and employees, suppliers, clients and all creditors owed money.
The examiner is required to immediately take over the day-to-day management of the NHIB and must put together a precise and extensive plan of action for the Government’s approval.
Commenting on the agency’s restructuring, Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Kyle R. Knowles stated “The Ministry of Health and Human Services remains committed to upholding the highest standards of governance and accountability. To improve confidence in the NHIB, an interim leadership team has been appointed to oversee its day-to-day operations through a stabilization and rescue plan that will result in a full review of its current structure and operations and recommendations for restructuring. This plan will focus on strengthening financial controls, enhancing operational transparency and accountability and efficiency of operations and service delivery in the best interests of the health of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Honourable Premier and Minister with portfolio responsibility for Finance, Honourable Charles W. Misick stated “The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands is unwavering in its dedication to safeguarding the public’s health and trust and ensuring that the NHIB operates with integrity, efficiency, and accountability. My Ministry reassures the public that all necessary steps are being taken to reinforce financial discipline within the institution. The well-being of our people remains our top priority. We will continue to work diligently to improve confidence in the management and operations of the NHIB, ensuring that it fulfils its mandate effectively and that the healthcare needs of our citizens and residents are met without compromise.”
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
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News4 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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Caribbean News5 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News4 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals