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Survey and Mapping Department Kicks Off Enterprise GIS and Geo Database Restructuring Initiative

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PRESS RELEASE

 FROM THE Department of Survey and Mapping

 

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands  The Department of Survey and Mapping has officially kicked off a transformative initiative to modernise the Turks and Caicos Islands Government’s spatial data infrastructure through the development of an Enterprise Geographic Information System (GIS) and the restructuring of its geo-database. This project is being led by Acting Director Mr. Demarco Williams in collaboration with Spatial Innovation Ltd., the consulting firm engaged to deploy the ArcGIS Enterprise Solution. This transformative project aims to enhance data sharing and collaboration among government departments, ultimately improving service delivery to the community.

From June 16-20, 2025, the project team, including consultants from Spatial Innovation Ltd. conducted a fact-finding and needs assessment mission. The purpose of this initial mission was to assess the current IT infrastructure, existing GIS workflows, data management practices, and institutional capacity for spatial data governance. The assessment also focused on identifying interdepartmental data needs, integration opportunities, and priorities for system design.

During the mission, consultations were held with over 12 key government departments, including Land Registry, Crown Land Unit, Department of Environment & Coastal Resource, Planning Department, Department of Statistics, and others. These engagements provided valuable insight into the existing challenges and opportunities for improved collaboration, data sharing, and spatial analysis across government functions.

“Geographical Information Systems technology has the potential to revolutionise how we operate as a government,” said Acting Director Demarco Williams. “By restructuring our geo database and creating an enterprise GIS, we are laying the groundwork for improved decision-making, resource allocation, and service delivery. This initiative will benefit not only government agencies but also the communities we serve.”

Once implemented, the new Enterprise GIS will serve as a centralised platform for storing, analysing, and sharing geospatial data across ministries and departments, enabling government departments to make data-driven decisions that enhance operational efficiency and transparency. By fostering collaboration and data sharing, the initiative aims to break down silos and promote a more integrated approach to governance. Key benefits will include enhanced data accessibility, increased inter-agency collaboration, streamlined operations, and improved transparency in land and infrastructure planning.

The Department of Survey and Mapping looks forward to continuing engagement with stakeholders as the project progresses into its design and deployment phases. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to modern digital governance and data-driven decision-making for the sustainable development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

For more information contact the Survey & Mapping Department at surveyandmapping@gov.tc.

About the Survey & Mapping Department

The Survey and Mapping Department, established since 1967, is responsible for the standardisation and production of all Surveying and Mapping activities and the maintenance of the national cadaster and the country’s geodetic network. The department comprises of two (2) functional arms, a Survey section and a Mapping section, both of which are regulated by the Land Survey Ordinance and the Land Survey Regulations.

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Police Commissioner Honoured with Distinguished Civic Service Award at TCHTA Star Awards

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.

Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.

In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.

The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.

This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.

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Health

TCI Hospital Celebrates Successful “Heart Strong TCI” Initiative During Heart Month

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(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.

Key Activities Included:

Educational Training Sessions

Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.

House Call Talk Show Feature

A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.

Red Fridays Awareness Campaign

Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.

Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run

In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.

Digital Health Education Campaign

To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.

Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment

While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:

  • Community-based education initiatives
  • Preventative screening and early detection programs
  • Lifestyle and wellness promotion
  • Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes

“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant.  “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”

For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc

About TCI Hospital

TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.

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News

New Chartered Accountant Member Appointed to The Integrity Commission

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Darius E. Ferguson, Member of the Integrity Commission Board

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Darius E. Ferguson as a Member of the Integrity Commission Board, serving as the Chartered Accountant Member in accordance with Section 3(2)(a) of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. His appointment is for a period of three (3) years and follows consultation with the President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Society of Professional Accountants.

Mr. Ferguson, with family ties to Providenciales and South Caicos, is a Chartered Accountant with over twenty years of senior leadership experience across aviation, finance, technology and consultancy, he brings a strong and diverse background in financial governance, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

A former Chief Financial Officer of Sky Bahamas Airlines for a decade, Mr. Ferguson managed all financial reporting, regulatory engagement, capital projects and commercial development initiatives. He previously served in senior audit roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, leading high‑risk audit engagements and ensuring adherence to international financial and accounting standards.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ferguson has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional ethics, community leadership and organisational accountability. His experience across corporate governance, financial oversight, and operational risk management will bring valuable strategic insight to the Integrity Commission.

Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointment, stating:

“Mr. Ferguson’s extensive background in financial management, auditing and governance, together with his leadership experience across both corporate and community sectors, make him well‑suited to serve on the Integrity Commission. His appointment strengthens our ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. I am confident that he will make a meaningful contribution to the Commission’s important work.”

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