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The Environmental Health Department, Ministry of Home Affairs, Como Parrot Cay and Middle Caicos communities unite for successful island-wide cleanup

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PRESS RELEASE 

FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH 

AND HUMAN SERVICES 

 

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 20 May 2025: The Environmental Health Department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Public Utilities and Transportation, and in partnership with the Sustainability Department of Como Parrot Cay, spearheaded a highly successful community cleanup initiative on Saturday, May 17, 2025, across the settlements of Middle Caicos. The collaborative effort brought together officers from the Environmental Health Department, District Commissioner Delancy, the staff from Como Parrot Cay, and residents of Middle Caicos for a unified day of action.

The primary purpose of this proactive initiative was to enhance the environmental health and overall well-being of the Middle Caicos community by removing unsightly and potentially hazardous litter from public spaces. This cleanup directly addresses the critical issue of mosquito proliferation. Accumulated litter, particularly discarded containers, can hold water and provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes within the community.

The cleanup operation saw the dedicated group divided into three teams, each strategically assigned to one of Middle Caicos’ main settlements: Conch Bar, Lorimers and Bambarra. This decentralized approach ensured comprehensive coverage across the island. Participants diligently collected litter along roadways and public areas, and secured it in garbage bags.

Illustrating outstanding community spirit and invaluable generosity, Middle Caicos resident Mrs. Elsa James kindly volunteered her truck to transport the collected garbage bags to the designated Lorimers landfill.

Through the dedicated efforts of volunteers and partners, an impressive 30 bags of litter were successfully removed from the environment. This significant achievement underscores the commitment of all involved to preserving the natural beauty and health of Middle Caicos and by extension our Beautiful by Nature, Turks and Caicos Islands.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   The day’s cleanup initiative was a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit. The Environmental Health Department is immensely grateful for the enthusiastic participation of District Commissioner Delancy, the dedicated team from Como Parrot Cay, and the diligent residents of Middle Caicos. Their hard work has made an indelible mark in creating a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone.

District commissioner Osbourne Delancy added, “It was inspiring to witness the community come together for this important cause. This initiative highlights the commitment of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Public Utilities and Transportation to support the well-being of our communities and working alongside our partners to achieve positive outcomes.”

The Sustainability Department of Como Parrot Cay also expressed their satisfaction with the day’s success. “Como Parrot Cay is deeply committed to environmental stewardship within the Turks and Caicos Islands. We were proud to partner with the Environmental Health Department and the Middle Caicos community on this cleanup, and we look forward to future collaborations that benefit the local environment and its residents.”

The Environmental Health Department plans to collaborate with the Department of Agriculture to plant mosquito-repellant plants in various settlements. This initiative will not only aim to further reduce the mosquito population and prevent vector-borne diseases but to also foster a sense of community involvement, as local residents will be engaged in the planting and maintenance of the mosquito repellant plants. The community impact of this initiative is expected to be significant. By planting mosquito-repellant plants, we can help reduce the risks of diseases such as dengue and chikungunya, which are prevalent in the region. The presence of these plants will also improve the overall quality of life for residents, making outdoor spaces more enjoyable and reducing the need for chemical insecticides. This initiative will serve as an educational opportunity, raising awareness among community members about the benefits of using natural methods to control mosquito populations.

Commenting on this initiative, Honourable Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that he “Extends his sincere gratitude to all individuals and organizations that contributed to the success of the Middle Caicos community cleanup initiative. This collaborative effort serves as a shining example of how collective action can lead to a healthier, safer, and more beautiful environment for all.”

For additional information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.

Bahamas News

Caribbean Bottling Supports the 27th Basketball Smiles Week  

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NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.

Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.

The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.

Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.

Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.

“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.

Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.

“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.

CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.

For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.

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Bahamas News

CWS Supports Transforming Spaces with Premium Products and Unique Cocktails

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CWS brand representative for Bottega and Excellsior wines posing with attendees enjoying glasses of Bottega Gold Prosecco at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines and Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wine and spirits distributor is thrilled to once again lend its support to Transforming Spaces (TS).

CWS is a proud historical partner of the annual art week which highlights Bahamian art and art spaces. Under this year’s theme, “Chasing Light” Transforming Spaces and Caribbean Wines & Spirits created a memorable art experience.

To mark 21 years of the upliftment and exposure of culture and Bahamian art, CWS offered award winning wines St. Francis, Rebellious, Bottega and Excellsior; premium spirits, Cross Keys Gin, El Tequileno Tequila, Angostura Rum and Nemiroff Vodka, along with the newly added Coors Light Beer from its portfolio.

To kickstart the annual art week, CWS delighted attendees with a tasting of globally renowned Bottega Wines at TS’ Poetry Jam, held at ICE Bahamas. Throughout the event, Bottega brand representatives shared tasting notes, ideal pairings, and insights into the brand’s portfolio.

During the highly anticipated Saturday and Sunday tours, CWS showcased its premium products at select art galleries.

Attendees enjoyed Rebellious and St. Francis wines at The Current: Baha Mar Art Gallery and Museum, Bottega and Excellsior wines at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, Coors Light beer at the University of The Bahamas Pro Gallery and hand-crafted Schweppes mixes featuring Cross Keys Gin, El Tequileno Tequila, Angostura Rum and Nemiroff Vodka at CAB Gallery & Studio.

Throughout the two-day tour, CWS product specialists enriched the experience by providing a deeper appreciation for their exceptional beverage portfolio.

Members of the Transforming Spaces Committee expressed their appreciation towards CWS’ support after another successful art week.

“Transforming Spaces is deeply grateful for the continued support of Caribbean Wines & Spirits over the years. Their partnership has become such an important part of the TS experience, helping us create welcoming and vibrant moments for our audiences across the tour weekend. From signature wines and cocktail bars to refreshments at gallery stops and pop-up events, their contribution brings an added sense of hospitality, celebration, and connection to the journey through Bahamian contemporary art.” — TS2026 Committee.

Caribbean Wines & Spirits is proud to partner with Transforming Spaces in supporting and elevating the voices and works of Bahamian artists and looks forward to strengthening this partnership for years to come.

To learn more about CWS’ involvement in the community, follow on social media @caribbeanwinesandspirits or visit the website at www.cwsbahamas.com today.

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Government

Government Outlines New Healthcare Vision as Interhealth Exit Accelerates Reform  

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By Magnetic Media Newsroom

 

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands — The Turks and Caicos Islands Government says the breakdown of its relationship with InterHealth Canada presents an opportunity to reshape healthcare delivery, with plans to expand local medical services, strengthen primary care and reduce dependence on overseas treatment.

During a national briefing following InterHealth Canada’s notice terminating its hospital contract, Premier Charles Washington Misick acknowledged publicly for the first time that Government and InterHealth had been negotiating an exit from the arrangement for more than a year after what he described as an “irretrievably broken down” relationship.

Despite the contractual dispute, Misick and Health Minister Kyle Knowles stressed that healthcare services will continue uninterrupted during the transition.

“Allow us to do our job,” Knowles appealed, assuring residents that Government is actively managing the transition and safeguarding patient care.

The Premier outlined what amounts to a broader healthcare transformation built around four connected levels of care: strengthened community-based primary healthcare; expanded polyclinic services; enhanced hospital-based secondary care with greater specialist capacity; and overseas tertiary treatment only for cases that cannot be managed locally.

Among the proposals are the long-discussed establishment of intensive care units, expanded use of currently unfinished hospital space, recruitment of more resident specialist physicians and stronger contract management to oversee future healthcare agreements.

Knowles said the new polyclinic model will broaden services available outside the hospitals, including dentistry, ophthalmology, laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, gynaecology and preventative screening, helping to reduce pressure on emergency departments while improving early intervention.

Misick also acknowledged that while the hospital system significantly improved healthcare access after opening in 2010, Government believes further reform is necessary to improve affordability, sustainability and the range of services available within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The briefing marked the Government’s most comprehensive explanation to date of its plans beyond the InterHealth contract, signalling that officials now see the transition as an opportunity to redesign healthcare delivery rather than simply replace one operator with another.

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