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House Statement by Immigration Minister and Member for Fox Hill, Hon. Fred Mitchell

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Communication
By Fred Mitchell MP
Minister for Immigration
House of Assembly
Nassau
9th February 2015

Mr. Speaker,

The press in The Bahamas have published two articles, one by Fred Smith Q C and the other by the Nassau Institute. Both statements published information which should not go unanswered lest the public accept the information therein as true and correct. They purport to describe the law and policies in The Bahamas as it relates to immigration. They go on to make assertions based on their statements of law which are incorrect.

The statements published by Fred Smith Q C on 3rd February in The Tribune and by the Nassau Institute in the Nassau Guardian on 6th February are replete with errors and untruths.

The Nassau Institute claims that the Immigration Department is implementing a revised policy to grant permits and charge fees for children born here to go to school.

That is false. No new fees are being introduced for immigration fees and there is no new policy as it relates to permission for non-nationals to go to school in The Bahamas. The fee remains the 100 dollars processing fee and 25 dollars for the issuance of the permit. The fee and the requirement for such a permit has not changed since the PLP took office in 2012.

The Institute also said: “The Department of Immigration recently raised work permit taxes for expatriate workers ( mainly professionals) to work in the private sector…”

That too is false. No news fees have been introduced for work permits since the PLP came to office in 2012.

The Nassau Institute also said: “ Work permits for foreigners to work for the government are issued without hesitation at the stroke of a pen…”

That too is false. There is no requirement in law for the employees of the government who are non-nationals to have a work permit.

The article also keeps speaking about people born in The Bahamas who they claim are left stateless. Stateless means that the children have no citizenship. With regard to the children of Haitians, the Haitian government has indicated that all children of Haitian citizens wherever born are Haitian at birth. So if that claim is being made with regard to those children, that too is false.

The Nassau Institute says that “ the inherent danger is when Immigration laws are subject to the whim of the minister, Fred Mitchell in this instance, instead of impartial law. The unintended consequences might be many as they are varied.”

Mr. Speaker, all laws are administered by some authority. They do not exist and apply themselves without human hands. The decisions of the Minster for Immigration are quasi- judicial and are not exercised according to whim but in accordance with known and established polices. The principle is that work permits are issued only in circumstances where Bahamians are not available for the jobs and the question of whether a Bahamian is or is not available for a job is certified and monitored by the Department of Labour. There is no whim of the Minister exercised in this matter.

Fred Smith Q C wrote the following:

“ [ The Minister] failed to identify any section of the Immigration or Education Act which makes the “ new Visa Rules” under the “ New Immigration Education Policy” lawful.

“The New Rules require children born in The Bahamas of foreign parents to get a student visa. In addition, the new November documentation policy is not sanctioned by any law either.”

With regard to children born to non-Bahamian parents, Mr. Smith wrote: “At 18, they are entitled to receive a Certificate of Registration as a citizen. Before then, they are “Citizens in Waiting”. They are not “stateless” as Fred Mitchell suggests…

Mr. Smith also says of the requirement for a permit to reside for children who are non-national: “The new immigration student visa policy conflicts with the Education Act… Minister Mitchell is acting ultra vires the Immigration Act, the Education Act and the Constitution.”

Mr. Speaker let me first repeat what I said at the Business Outlook Seminar on 29th January:

New rules are going to be introduced. For example, all schools will be asked to be sure that any foreign national in a Bahamian school has a student permit to be in The Bahamas as of the opening of the fall term. The annual permit costs 25 dollars with a 100 dollar processing fee and every non-national should have one, including those born here to non-national parents.

I said nothing about a student visa.

Secondly, I have never ever said or suggested that children born to non- Bahamian parents in The Bahamas are stateless. If Mr. Smith is referring to the children of Haitians born in The Bahamas, the government of Haiti has affirmed that the children of Haitians born anywhere are Haitian at birth so they are not stateless.

There is no such thing in law as a “citizen in waiting”. You are either a citizen or not.

The allegation that the new policies are ultra vires the constitution and the Immigration and Education Acts is false.

The Immigration Act requires all non- nationals in the country to have a landed status. While the constitution does provide a right to apply to be registered as a citizen at age 18 and before the19th birthday to non-nationals born here, it confers no immigration status on them. Because they are not citizens of The Bahamas, they must have an immigration status.

That means their parents should apply for them to get a permit to reside. Permits to reside cost 25 dollars with a processing fee of 100 dollars.

Thousands of children hold them in this country today. This is not a new requirement. That is the existing law and all non-nationals in the country are expected to comply with the law. Most are complying.

The Department has obtained an opinion from the Attorney General’s office on this matter. We have been advised that the policies of the Department are in compliance with the constitution and all applicable laws of The Bahamas.

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Liberty Business launches in Turks and Caicos Islands

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enabling digital transformation across key sectors and supporting enterprise customers

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (September 17, 2026) – Liberty Business has officially launched in the Turks and Caicos Islands, signalling the company’s continued transformation and strengthening its commitment to helping businesses navigate digital change, drive growth and build greater resilience.

The announcement was made during a special stakeholder event attended by government representatives, business leaders, industry partners, customers and members of the media, marking the next chapter in the company’s long-standing relationship with the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Today represents far more than the introduction of a new name. It reflects our continued evolution as a business and our commitment to being a trusted technology partner for organisations navigating an increasingly digital economy,” said Susanna O’Sullivan, Vice President General Manager, Flow North Caribbean, Liberty Caribbean.

“Through Liberty Business, we are bringing together the strength and capabilities of Liberty Caribbean with local expertise to help businesses across the Turks and Caicos Islands connect, protect, innovate and grow. We want to be a partner that understands the ambitions of our customers and works alongside them to create meaningful business value.”

Liberty Caribbean is the operator of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, serving customers across more than twenty markets in the region.

The launch of Liberty Business builds on the company’s long-standing presence in the Turks and Caicos Islands and its continued investment in communications infrastructure, technology and digital capabilities across the Caribbean.

Today, Liberty Caribbean operates one of the region’s most extensive communications networks, supported by approximately 50,000 kilometres of subsea and terrestrial fibre infrastructure, helping enable resilient, secure and high-performance connectivity across the region.

For businesses, the evolution comes at a time when technology is playing an increasingly important role in productivity, customer experience, cybersecurity, business continuity and growth.

“Businesses today need more than connectivity. They need technology solutions that can help them operate efficiently, protect their information, support their people and respond to change. We are excited to begin this next chapter with businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands and to work together to build a smarter, stronger, more resilient and more connected digital future,” said O’Sullivan.

Liberty Business brings together an integrated portfolio of enterprise solutions, including advanced connectivity, cybersecurity, cloud services, data centre solutions, managed services, enterprise mobility and unified communications under a single brand dedicated to supporting the evolving needs of business customers.

Also speaking at the launch, Joanne Missick, Country Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands, said the introduction of Liberty Business demonstrates the company’s commitment to evolving alongside the local business community.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is a dynamic market with tremendous potential, and our businesses are increasingly embracing technology as an enabler of growth,” said Missick.

“From tourism and hospitality to financial services, real estate, construction, professional services and entrepreneurship, organisations are looking for ways to become more efficient, secure and resilient. Liberty Business gives us the opportunity to engage our customers differently – understanding their individual needs and helping them identify technology solutions that can support their ambitions.”

Missick added that the company’s approach is centred on building lasting relationships with businesses and providing solutions that address real-world challenges.

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Education

TCI Schools Invited to Participate in 2026 National Student Council Election

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Thursday, 17 September 2026: The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture has partnered with the Turks and Caicos Islands Elections Department to bring an exciting national election experience directly to high school students across the country with the launch of the 2026 National Student Council (NSC) Election.

Held under the theme “Your Voice. Your Country. Your Future.”, the initiative will give students from all 14 public and private high schools the chance to campaign, vote and compete for national student leadership positions, while gaining first-hand experience of the electoral process.

Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, said the initiative gives young people a national platform to share their ideas and develop their leadership skills.

“Our young people have ideas, opinions and perspectives that deserve to be heard, and this election gives them a national platform to use their voices in a meaningful way. We want our students to step forward with confidence, share the issues that matter to them and experience what it means to lead and represent others.” She continued, “I am particularly excited to see students from schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands getting involved, supporting their candidates and participating in the voting process. I encourage every school to embrace this opportunity and help us create an experience that our students will learn from and enjoy.”

Each high school will nominate one student candidate to represent their school at the national level. Candidates will campaign for the positions of President and Vice President, sharing their ideas, priorities and plans with student voters across the Turks and Caicos Islands. Both positions will be decided by electronic vote among high school students across the country.

The remaining four positions on the six-member National Student Council:  Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer and Public Relations Officer. will be determined through an internal vote among the top candidates following the national election.

The election will mirror several elements of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ electoral process. Candidates will choose a party name, colour and symbol, develop a manifesto and campaign slogan, and make their case to student voters. Their names, party information and symbols will appear on an electronic ballot, giving students the opportunity to experience the process as both candidates and voters.

Acting Elections Supervisor Willette Pratt stated that the timing of the initiative is particularly significant as the country continues its focus on civic awareness and youth participation.

“Coming on the heels of Constitution Day and as we prepare to celebrate National Youth Week this September, this is a timely opportunity to put civic education into practice. We want young people to understand that democracy is not only about casting a vote; it is about being informed, participating and understanding that their voice matters. We are excited to see our schools and students embrace the experience.”

Once students are selected and endorsed by their school, candidates must submit a completed Candidate Information Form, a Student Manifesto of no more than 250 words, and a 45- to 60-second Campaign Video PSA introducing themselves and outlining the issues and priorities they hope to champion.

Candidates are expected to campaign fairly and respectfully, focusing on ideas, student issues and their plans as aspiring student leaders. Personal attacks, bullying, false or misleading information, and offering gifts or incentives in exchange for votes are prohibited. Breaches of the campaign code of conduct may result in the loss of campaign privileges or disqualification.

For candidates, it is a chance to share their ideas and test their leadership skills on a national platform. For student voters, it is an opportunity to have a say in who represents them and experience the electoral process first-hand.

With candidate selection underway, the Elections Department and Ministry of Education are looking forward to seeing students step forward, bring their ideas to the campaign and, ultimately, seeing young voters across the country make their choice at the ballot.

The 2026 National Student Council Election is an opportunity for young people to do more than learn about leadership and democracy — it gives them the chance to take part. Your Voice. Your Country. Your Future.

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Health

Know the Possible Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer

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September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – which means it is time to watch out for the warning signs. Possible signs include slow urine flow and loss of bladder control — but if this common cancer is caught before it spreads, the prognosis is good.

Your prostate is only about the size of a walnut. But this small gland can cause big problems if left unchecked.

Warning signs of prostate cancer

“Most men with prostate cancer don’t have symptoms at first,” says urologist Christopher Weight, MD. But if you notice certain warning signs, like changes in your pee routine or pain, it’s a good idea to visit a urologist.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. But when it’s found early, it’s also one of the most treatable. Knowing the signs and talking with a healthcare provider about screening could save your life.

So, what should you look out for?

Slow or weak urine flow

Trouble starting to pee — called urinary hesitancy — is common as men get older. You may also notice slow flow or dribbling. Or your flow may stop altogether. The most common cause is benign prostatic hyperplasia. Still, if you experience these symptoms, it’s important to get your prostate checked.

Frequent need to urinate

A frequent and sometimes urgent need to urinate, especially at night, may be a sign of nerve damage or an infection. Or it could indicate that a tumor is putting pressure on your bladder and urethra.

Painful or burning urination

Pain or burning when you pee — called dysuria — is usually linked to a urinary tract infection (UTI). But in some cases, it can signal prostate cancer. This is especially true when it’s paired with other symptoms.

Blood in your urine

Another possible warning sign of prostate cancer is hematuria, or blood in your pee. Though this can be associated with other health issues, including a UTI, it’s worth checking out.

Prostate pain

Unexplained prostate pain — especially when sitting — can be an early sign of trouble. “It might also mean an infection, but only your urologist can say for certain,” Dr. Weight says.

Loss of bladder or bowel control

Bladder or bowel incontinence can happen with age or other medical conditions. But if you’re leaking urine or can’t control bowel movements, talk to a doctor to rule out prostate cancer.

Changes in sexual function

These symptoms can stem from many causes, but they may also signal prostate cancer. Talk to a urologist if you notice:

  • Painful ejaculation
  • Decreased volume of ejaculation
  • Inability to keep an erection
  • Blood in your semen (hematospermia)

Sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being. So, if something feels off, it’s not just OK to speak up — it’s vital.

Later-stage signs

These symptoms often only appear when prostate cancer has spread:

  • Ongoing pain in your lower back, hips or chest
  • Numbness in your legs or feet

“Of course, there are endless other reasons that your back may hurt or that you have tingling in your toes that are entirely separate from any prostate troubles. But they can also be signs of later stages of prostate cancer,” Dr. Weight clarifies.

Importance of prostate cancer screening

“Since early-stage prostate cancer doesn’t cause symptoms, many men don’t know they have it,” Dr. Weight notes. “That’s why regular screening is so important — it helps catch prostate cancer early, when treatment is most effective.”

A healthcare provider may recommend screening if you’re between the ages of 55 and 69, or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.

Screening might feel uncomfortable to think about, but skipping it could mean missing a chance to catch prostate cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.

“A simple blood test, often followed by a physical exam if needed, gives your doctor important information about your prostate health,” Dr Weight says.
Early detection doesn’t just improve treatment options — it can also give you peace of mind.

Lower your risk of prostate cancer

“You can’t do anything about some of the risk factors for prostate cancer, like age or family history,” Dr. Weight recognizes. “But you can make lifestyle choices that support a healthier prostate.”

These small steps may make a difference:

  • Get regular prostate screenings.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Eat a nutritious diet.
  • Quit smoking.

“When prostate cancer is diagnosed before it spreads to other parts of the body, about 99% of people live at least five years after diagnosis,” he continues. “But the survival rate is much lower if the cancer has spread.”

That’s why it’s so important to stay proactive. Regular screenings, healthy habits and paying attention to changes in your body can make all the difference. Talk to a provider about the right plan for you.

CREDIT: CLEVELAND CLINIC

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