TCI News
Reader-friendly Budget published at TCI Gov’t site; explains historic $290m allocation
#Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Thursday July 26, 2018 – The largest budget in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands was passed on Friday July 13, 2018 and a reader-friendly version is now published online, said Premier and Finance Minister Sharlene Robinson today.
“This year we continued the Citizen’s Guide to the Budget and you can find it at www.gov.tc which is a short overview of the Budget’s contents and I present to you, this today, highlighting critical spending and projects for this financial year.”
The 2018-2019 Budget communication was delivered on July 10, 2018 and national spending for this fiscal period is put at $290,014,177.41. Absorbing the largest share of the new Budget are Health Care and Education, explained the Finance Minister in a media debriefing at her Providenciales office.
Despite commendation for the Turks and Caicos for presenting a bigger budget, there is skepticism from observers including the Official Opposition PNP, which charges that the PDM Administration did not deliver on its commitments during the last fiscal year and will fall short again in 2018-2019. The Premier however strongly disagreed. 
“…we were very successful last year, we have 71 or 72 out of 78 projects and only eight projects were cancelled. So we were extremely successful last year and yesterday, we received a report from the Deputy Governor that over 90 percent of those have already reached the contract stage.” Hon Robinson admitted, “…it is an ambitious budget which is why we are introducing additional staff… so that we do have the manpower, we do have the money…”
The Budget is late; the Turks and Caicos fiscal year usually begins in April. Premier Sharlene Robinson explained that the catastrophic blow dealt the islands in the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season forced a delay in the delivery of the new financial year estimates.
“We had a very difficult time trending what our revenues, and I shouldn’t say difficult… we wanted to be careful, it is important to do that. Even though we are reducing our savings by $21m, we have to demonstrate that we are going to be able to replenish it. We also have to demonstrate that we will begin to look back at a surplus budget, because according to the Constitution, you cannot have a deficit budget. So we had to get UK approval for the Deficit Budget for the reduction or pulling money from our savings and proving how we are going to replenish it.”
The Premier, joined by Infrastructure Minister, Goldray Ewing during the media meeting, explained that again the PDM Administration is pleased with the projections for capital spending. Earmarked projects are priced, cumulatively, at over $36.6 million with major projects being road works in Providenciales, a seawall for Salt Cay and reconstruction at public education facilities.
“Included in our Capital Program this year is school repairs with Oseta Jolly as priority, the Community College, Helena Jones Robinson High School, Raymond Gardiner High school – all approved since February this year and of course Marjorie Basden High School and Iris Stubbs Primary School where works have already begun in South Caicos.” Premier Robinson added: “This Budget Year we have Ianthe Pratt, Enid Capron Primary, Mary Robinson primary school, Clement Howell High School and Eliza Simons primary school; they have also included furniture for the Long Bay High School new block.”
Getting double mention was the 8 percent increase in scholarship spending to $4 million; the extra money will enable the Scholarship Board to have more successful applicants. The deadline for requests has been extended to August 17, 2018.
“The scholarships have been increased to $4m and while that is an 8 percent increase we have a large number of students returning and so there is a considerable amount of money in this year’s Budget for scholarships.”
The Budget, which is the second for the PDM Party since being elected to office in December 2016, also projects a deficit of over $10m which will be covered by money in the country’s savings account.
“Of note is the fact that the Budget also projects a deficit and a drawing down of $21 million on the country’s savings, which is the second time since the storm; first in February in relation to the Supplementary Appropriation Bill that we had received the UK’s approval to draw down on our reserves and to run a deficit.”
The link to the six page Citizens’ Guide to the Budget 2018-2019 is below:
http://online.fliphtml5.com/pejq/hdge/
PROVIDENCIALES,TCI MAY 2, 2024: World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, observed annually on May 8, pays tribute to the unwavering dedication of volunteers and the lasting influence of humanitarian efforts worldwide. This significant day commemorates the birth of Henry Dunant, the visionary behind the Red Cross movement. Dunant’s groundbreaking idea involved establishing national relief societies comprised of volunteers who would receive training during peacetime. Their mission: to offer neutral and impartial aid in times of war and crisis.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross (TCIRC), a vital part of this global humanitarian network, continues to make a difference in the lives of those affected by crises. “Keeping Humanity Alive”: This year’s powerful theme serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering dedication of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Their commitment extends to upholding human dignity, alleviating suffering, and providing crucial assistance to those facing dire circumstances, especially in remote and hard-to-reach regions. As we mark World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, let’s recognize the commitment and service of our Turks and Caicos Islands’ 200 + volunteers to alleviating suffering and promoting community resilience throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Red Cross Month Activities:
Community Outreach on All Islands: We’ll coordinate community outreach programs on each of the islands. Our volunteers will focus on raising awareness about health, disaster preparedness, and hygiene when engaging with the community.
First Aid Training Workshops: Wednesday 8th May 2024, 5pm to 7pm Community First Aid Workshop at Red Cross Building, Sunshine Plaza, 1005 Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Our first aid instructors will conduct first aid training sessions for community members. This workshop empowers people with life-saving skills, such as CPR, wound care, and handling emergencies.
Fundraising: Various fundraising events are organized to support our humanitarian work. Lady Grace Sunset Cruise (May 18th):
The Lady Grace Saxophone Sunset Cruise on May 18th will be a memorable event. We’ll set sail, enjoy the beautiful music and breathtaking views. Funds raised will go towards supporting our first aid program.
Dress in Red Day (May 31st): On May 31st, we’ll encourage everyone to participate in “Dress in Red Day.” Islanders, businesses, schools, and organizations can wear red attire to show solidarity with the humanitarian cause. Let’s flood the streets, workplaces, and schools with the vibrant color of compassion and support.
The 3rd Annual Red Hot Challenge You are invited to participate or attend this fun and vibrant sporting event scheduled for June 1, 2024, at the National Stadium in Providenciales. This event brings together individuals, businesses, and the community to support the Red Cross and its humanitarian efforts. Here are the key details:
- Date and Time: Saturday, June 1st, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
- Location: National Stadium, Providenciales
- Competitions: A total of 20 competitions, including 10 non-athletic games and 10 athletic contests
- Activities: Participants can enjoy a range of activities such as spoon relay races, egg tosses, water balloon tosses, sprints, tug-of-war, arm wrestling, soccer kicks, and more
- Team Participation: Both individuals and corporate teams are welcome. Teams can enter for $1,000 each, with a maximum of 10 participants permitted
- General Admission: Attendees can join in for a $5 general admission fee, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free entry (accompanied by an adult)
As we celebrate Red Cross month this May we urge you to participate in our activities and consider registering as a volunteer and/or making a donation.
To volunteer visit our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/turksandcaicosislandsredcross?mibextid=ZbWKwL or website: https://www.redcross.org.tc Donations can be directed to our account at FCIB (account number: 10305747) on Islehelp or on our website. Let’s support and salute our Red Cross volunteers who are actively ‘Keeping Humanity Alive’.
#TurksandCaicos, May 2, 2024 – The Department of Gender Affairs is proud to announce the commemoration of International Girls in ICT Day 2024, under the theme “Empowering Girls in ICT: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of April.
It aims to encourage and empower girls and young women to consider careers in the Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) fields. The day highlights the importance of bridging the gender digital divide and
promoting gender equality in the tech industry.
As part of the celebrations, a dynamic Panel Discussion titled ‘Tech Talks’ has been organized. This discussion will feature prominent women leaders and professionals from the ICT sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands, who will share their experiences, challenges, and successes in the field. This event is designed to inspire and encourage young women to pursue careers in Information Communication and Technology (ICT) by providing them with insights, guidance, and mentorship from accomplished women in the industry.
A special invitation has been extended to girls across all high schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through this initiative, the Department continues its drive to foster interest and enthusiasm for ICT among the next generation of female leaders and innovators.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panelists, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the world of ICT.
The event will be held at the Paradise Baptist Church, in Five Cays, Providenciales, commencing at 10:30 AM.
The Department of Gender Affairs is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women in the field of ICT. Through initiatives like International Girls in ICT Day, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
May 2, 2024 – Bēchë, the premier swimwear of the Turks and Caicos, known for its innovative designs, commitment to quality, philanthropy and cultural storytelling, is thrilled to announce its official partnership with the prestigious return of Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant. This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting fashion and beauty, with the event scheduled to take place in Providenciales on July 26th and 27th 2024.
As the exclusive swimwear partner for this esteemed pageant, bēchë will be outfitting all contestants with its latest collection curated specifically for each lady. This collection is designed to empower women and celebrate their individuality. This partnership aligns with bēchë’s mission to inspire confidence and elegance through exceptional swimwear that caters to all body types, while telling a story about our nation.
Event Highlights and Swimwear Showcase
Bēchë’s “Miss Universe Turks” designs will be featured during the promotional photoshoots leading up to the event, during the bikini
competition and official photoshoots of the reigning queen. Attendees will witness firsthand the fusion of fashion and poise as the contestants grace the stage in bēchë’s standout pieces, each crafted to highlight the beauty and culture of the Turks and Caicos and our women.
Exclusive Offers and Engagement
In celebration of this partnership, bēchë will offer exclusive promotions and giveaways leading up to and during the event. Pageant attendees and fans worldwide will have the opportunity to engage with both brands through interactive social media campaigns and live-streamed segments of the pageant. The curated collection will be available to the general public for pre-order on the night of the pageant.
A Commitment to Community and Fashion
“Partnering with the Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant is an honor and a testament to our dedication to high-quality, accessible fashion,” said Cyprianna Jackson, Designer and Founder of bēchë. “This event not only highlights the talent and beauty of its participants but also shines a spotlight on the global appeal of inclusive fashion. We are excited to bring our designs to such a dynamic stage and look forward to an ongoing relationship with the pageant.”
The Miss Universe Turks and Caicos organization shares bēchë’s enthusiasm, with National Director Gabriela Clesca stating, “We are truly honored and thrilled to announce the return of the Miss Universe competition to Turks and Caicos after 10 years, alongside our esteemed swimwear partner, bēchë. Together, we’re positioning ourselves to showcase the extraordinary talent and beauty of this island, offering a global stage to showcase the captivating essence of TCI.”
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