Connect with us

News

Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy attends Prestigious UWI Artificial Intelligence Conference

Published

on

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 1st July 2025: The newly formed Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy (M.I.T.E.) of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a core mission to accelerate e-governance initiatives, is proud to announce the participation of Honourable E. Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Second Annual Artificial Intelligence Research Conference. Held at the UWI Five Islands Campus, Antigua from 23rd – 24th June, 2025, the conference, themed “Bridging Digital Frontiers: AI For Caribbean Sustainability,” served as a pivotal platform for high-level discussions on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the region. The conference’s agenda, which included critical discussions on AI policy and governance, digital innovation in the public sector, and improved government service delivery, directly aligns with the Ministry’s strategic objectives.

Hon. Saunders’ attendance underscores his commitment to engaging in critical thought leadership and leveraging cutting-edge AI research to advance digital governance within the Turks and Caicos Islands. Joining Hon. Saunders at the prestigious AI Conference were M.I.T.E. Permanent Secretary, Ms. Tamera Howell-Robinson, and Head of Secretariat, Miss Lareesa Robinson. The M.I.T.E. is committed to utilising cutting-edge technology for national development, specifically advancing the initiatives of 24/7 Government and establishing a secure e-government platform.

“Our participation in the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference was instrumental in deepening our understanding of how AI can be ethically and effectively integrated into public services,” stated Hon. Saunders. “The insights gained, particularly around AI for justice and governance, digital innovation, and citizen engagement, will directly inform our efforts to create a truly 24/7 Government and build an even more robust and secure e-government platform for all citizens,” he further stated.

Key takeaways from the conference highlighted the importance of shaping AI policy to support economic growth, ethical governance, and digital innovation in the public sector, while emphasizing regional cooperation, workforce development, and responsible AI adoption. These discussions are crucial as the M.I.T.E. continues to explore how AI can enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of government services, ensuring they are available around the clock to meet the evolving needs of the populace.

The M.I.T.E. is committed to leading the charge in responsible AI adoption, ensuring that technological advancements translate into tangible benefits for all Turks and Caicos Islanders. By actively engaging in international and regional dialogues such as the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference, the M.I.T.E. aims to position Turks and Caicos Islands at the forefront of digital transformation in the Caribbean.

For more information on the UWI Five Islands AI Research Conference, please visit their official website: The UWI Five Islands Annual Research Conference – Bridging Digital Frontiers: AI for Caribbean Sustainability

PHOTO CAPTIONS: 

 Header: (L-R) Hon. E. Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy; Dr. Curtis Charles, Director of Academic Affairs, UWI Five Islands Campus, Antigua and Barbuda; Hon. Jose Vanterpool, Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing, Information Technology and E-Government Services, Anguilla.

 1st insert: Ministry of Innovation, Technology and Energy. (L-R) Permanent Secretary, Tamera Howell-Robinson; Minister, Hon. E. Jay Saunders; Head of Secretariat, Lareesa Robinson.

2nd insert: Hon. E. Jay Saunders and Mr. George Pilgrim, Principal Consultant, Governance and Public Policy Inc.

News

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

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

News

New Chartered Accountant Member Appointed to The Integrity Commission

Published

on

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.”

Continue Reading

News

Multi-Agency Planning Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays

Published

on

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Block and Parcel 60503/17 in the Five Cays area.

The exercise was led by the Planning Department, pursuant to its statutory authority under the Physical Planning Act to address unauthorised development. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Crown Land Unit and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.

The enforcement action formed part of a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and private landowners. The registered owners of the land would have sought the state’s assistance to issue copies of Section 58 Enforcement Notices on unlawful structures identified on the parcel. The subject parcel comprises approximately 25 acres extending across Millennium Highway.

During the exercise, a total of fifty-four (54) copies of the Enforcement Notice were issued on structures located on the parcel. Notices were affixed to structures and served on persons found to be occupying illegal developments.

The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold planning regulations, protect property rights, and promote orderly and lawful development. Persons undertaking construction are reminded that development without the requisite planning approvals is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING